beenjammin0421: Hey, thanks! Miguel has no reason to want to fight Mihawk. As for the Elysia Arc, that's not quite what I meant. I've generally set it up to be after Skypiea actually, I was just trying to decide to do it after that arc directly, or after Water 7. From what I understood, they didn't exactly wind up in Thriller Bark that quickly so I thought it might fit. Yeah, I do have a couple of ideas about Robin getting to know him better.
''...And then I told him he'd be our cook but he kept saying no, even when he did mention a dream he wouldn't tell me anything!'' Luffy finished his tale the following morning, huffing.
Miguel admired his perseverance but he'd spent a long time at the Baratie trying to convince Sanji, that was a bit much ''Well, he did say he has reasons and he's not exactly obligated to tell you.''
''I know...'' His muzzy expression remained ''...I just don't get why his reason's more important than his dream. That's just weird!''
''It's not nearly that simple. I can see why you'd think he could be the cook, that was pretty nice of him.''
''Right? Gin was afraid Sanji would get in trouble but it kinda looked like the old cook guy already figured out what happened.''
Miguel was intrigued, realizing that this could actually be a valid point. If feeding starving people was so usual to Sanji then it wasn't strange for any of those in the Baratie to find out.
The surprise was that Zeff seemed to share Luffy's opinion, he was in fact all for Sanji leaving. Sanji himself had been the one who completely refused.
Which left him with one conclusion...
''So basically you think he'd want to go but he's too stubborn to admit it?'' Miguel hazarded a guess.
''Exactly!'' The rubber teen chirped. ''And that's why I won't give up!''
No surprise there ''Go figure. At least tone it down a notch, you can be a bit too pushy. It puts people off.''
''Fiiiinnnne...'' Opting to find something else to do, Luffy plopped himself next to his friend ''...so, what've you got there anyway?''
''Ah...'' Their eyes drifted to the letter on Miguel's lap ''...this came with the stuff my friends sent. I just got around to reading it.''
He's taken the chance to tell his family about a lot of what went down with him lately, including the invite to join the crew. Now he knew that they and many of their friends wouldn't care, they knew a number of good people who were in fact pirates. Being a pirate wasn't going to change who he was, Miguel wouldn't allow that. But he hadn't realized how much he needed the reassurance, because he had made up his mind and his decision was bound to affect them. The letter felt like a weight off his chest.
''Luffy? I think I kept you waiting long enough.''
Initially confused, the teen realized he was talking about the choice whether to become a pirate or not, giving him his full attention.
''I never would've thought I'd meet people like you guys but it's been great. I really like all you told me about freedom and adventure, just being able to go after your dream. For a while, I didn't think it was something I could have...'' Miguel's smile grew ''...but here you are going after it every day. So, if you'd still have me, I'd love to join.''
Luffy's grin nearly rivaled the sun ''You bet we would!'' He let out a loud cheer ''You think it's been great now? Just wait, it'll get better and better!''
A laugh ''I'm looking forward to it.''
Around the same time...
Zoro and the bounty hunters were on the other side of the boat, taking time to catch up.
''I was really surprised to hear you became a pirate, aniki.'' Johnny mused ''It does add up when you think of the story. But it's hard not to like Luffy-aniki and Miguel-aniki. Plus Luffy-aniki sure warned your respect, huh? We know that's not easy.''
''Hey, what matters is that Zoro-aniki's happy, happier than we've seen in a long time.''
Yosaku's addition left the subject of their attention curious. '''You think so?''
''Yeah, you've only known each other but you hit it off so well. It took you weeks before you warmed up to us, I don't think you really relaxed around us for at least a week back then.''
Damn, had that really been like that? Zoro supposed things really had changed a bunch, perhaps he'd changed too. He hadn't even realized how natural it seemed. To think there was some point he wouldn't have even thought to become a pirate but it really seemed like he fit in.
Although that did remind him, Miguel did say he would consider joining their crew but nothing else. Had he made up his mind?
Having been drawn to the deck with all the ruckus she realized was an excited Luffy, Nami found him talking to Miguel not too far away. Considering how down he'd been the last time she'd seen him yesterday, that was quite the chance.
It was clear that Zoro and the others had no idea what was going on either. But Luffy wasted no time filling them in ''Miguel's agreed to join!''
Usopp's face lit up, Zoro looking equally pleased as the bounty hunters shared a glance ''Oh, yeah, Miguel-aniki wasn't actually part of the crew...''
Johnny finished for his partner ''...he just seemed to fit in so it was easy to forget. Well, it might not have been the member you planned for but you still got a new member, Luffy-aniki!''
''Yup!'' The rubber teen beamed ''We've just been hanging about for a while, how about we go eat? It can be like a celebration.''
''You just want an excuse to eat.''
To his credit, Luffy didn't even deny Usopp's jibe ''It can still be fun.''
''Sure, but considering this is partly to celebrate, are you really going to have Miguel pay for you again? That seems uncalled for.'' Nami stated.
Zoro actually agreed ''Well then, it's a good thing I have these.'' Digging in his pockets, he revealed a small amount of gems and berri. ''It just so happened that Buggy's minions dropped practically everything when they hightailed it out of the town so I saw some of them nearby and I figured it couldn't hurt to have.''
''Nice one, Zoro!'' Usopp nodded appreciatively.
''Let's go!'' Luffy eagerly led them towards the Baratie...
Given his earlier persistence, Sanji had been half-expecting Luffy to come pester him again but the teen's good mood seemed near perpetual and infectious to those near him. Idly, he found himself wondering what happened.
''This is going to be some sort of regular thing, huh? I remember you guys celebrated with food after Zoro joined and then we went to the tavern after the mess with Kuro, then this...'' Nami trailed off.
''If this guy has his way? Definitely.'' The fact that Luffy was still eagerly stuffing his face with all he could get his hand on only emphasized Zoro's point.
''Hey, how come you're just standing there? Come on!''
Sanji gave Luffy a look ''I'm in the middle of my job, I thought it'd be obvious.''
''But you're not working now.'' was the immediate retort ''We've all got the food and there's other cooks. You can at least sit for a bit!''
Catching on to the captain's ploy, Usopp gave a sly grin ''Come on, do we really even have to convince you? Live a little! Besides, wouldn't you want to spend some time with our resident pretty lady?''
There was only one way Sanji could answer that.
Grudgingly, he turned to pull up a chair ''Only because I don't meet such beauty every day...''
Luffy and Usopp shared triumphant grins behind him.
''So considering how much he talked about dreams, I guess you three have dreams of your own?'' Sanji wondered.
Zoro's answer was immediate ''I'm aiming to become the World's best swordsman.''
On the other hand, Usopp found himself hesitant, unsure as to why. However, Miguel was prepared ''I want to complete the Phantom Quest.''
The cook let out a whistle ''Damn, you guys are ambitious. Never thought I'd see someone who believed in that myth.''
Usopp blinked ''You know about that?''
''Yeah, we get all sorts of people here. I remember this one time a family came by, the dad was telling his kids all about it. They were thrilled but it was pretty obvious the guy thought it was a story.''
''I hear that a lot, it's a mystery to us back home too. But that's all the more reason I want to find out for myself.'' Miguel confessed. ''But since you bring that up, Luffy did mention something about your own dream. Care to share?''
''Ah, well...'' Looking slightly sheepish, Sanji began to explain ''...ever hear of the All Blue?''
Miguel couldn't help the chuckle that escaped him ''Now who's the one believing in myths?''
A smirk ''You got me there. But for the rest of you, the All Blue is a legendary ocean, especially for us chefs. It's an expanse as far as the eye can see, fish from all the blues are said to gather there. Lots of theories and stories about it spread but people are generally convinced it can't be real. The Blues are different and a bunch of the sea creatures need different conditions to survive but not in the All Blue. It's the ocean of dreams I've wanted to see since I was a kid.''
''Wow, there's really all sorts of tales out on the sea...'' Usopp trailed off.
Luffy's expression was one of awe ''It sounds even cooler when you explain! Why don't you want to go find it?''
''How diluted is your hearing? I told you a bunch of times yesterday! It's not simple, just because it's my dream doesn't mean I can abandon everything for it. I have an important matter I have to settle here above everything else.''
''Back to that debt stuff again?'' Luffy was genuinely confused now ''But if the old timer actually told you that you're free to go then shouldn't it be fine?''
Sanji grimaced at the memory of Zeff's completely nonchalant dismissal ''No, it isn't. I still have a debt to pay for letting me even come as far as I did.''
''Wait, so you mean to Zeff?'' Nami hadn't expected that ''But you helped build this place and make it what it is. I heard the chefs say that you're the only one who's been here right from the start and even now, when you're the sous chef, you're also a waiter. I'd think this debt should be more than repaid after all this time.''
''With all due respect, Nami-san, it's rather complicated. I can't simply leave after all that happened.'' He stood ''Sorry, I know you had your heart set on this but you'll have to ask someone else. I've made up my mind a long time ago.''
''Well, there you have it, Luffy. His mind's set.'' Zoro pointed out as they watched him head off.
The teen wasn't so sure. He wouldn't ever consider forcing to come, of course. But Sanji's interest and passion when it came to his dream rang clear. Myth or not, he clearly believed in this dream a great deal. Why did he keep denying his wishes?
''Just take it slowly.'' Miguel reminded gently. ''At the end of the day, it's his choice. Like it or not, we have to respect that.''
''I know...''
Had they looked closer, they might have seen Zeff on the second floor. His eyes never left Sanji's figure, disappointment very clear in his stern gaze.
Shortly after their celebration, Zoro decided to go for something he'd been meaning to for a while, request a spar from Miguel. Both swordsmen hadn't so much as blinked at Luffy's reaction.
''Ohh, that sounds brilliant! Do it, do it!''
''It's not up to you to decide.'' Rolling his eyes, Zoro looked at their friend ''Well?''
''Sure-let's do it. I think Luffy's going to combust otherwise.'' He added jokingly.
A snort ''Let's get started...''
Both stood opposite from one another, Zoro taking a stance with his three blades while Miguel prepared his own weapon. The former wasted no time in charging forward, Miguel waiting until the last second to charge before striking his shoulder hard enough to destabilize his grip on his sword. This left him vulnerable to a follow up attack, wincing as he grit his teeth, moving his arms up to raise the blade. But Miguel surprised him by blocking with the sheath, swiftly slashing in a wide arm with his sword.
Zoro had wondered why he hadn't unsheathed the blade to begin with but it looked like his style involved using the sheath as well. Concentrating, he fended off Miguel's next attack before it could begin by jerking his head, Wado consequently nicking his side. But Miguel was quick to return the favor, striking hard and true with sword and sheath, nailing Zoro's arms in return.
Both continued fighting in earnest, unaware of the growing crowd they were attracting. Even some in the Baratie had been drwn ot the spectacle, having recognized Zoro, they were rather surprised to see someone fighting him so well. The two's skill was clear for all to see, neither giving an inch to the other.
The green haired swordsman allowed himself a smirk, next to Luffy, this was the best challlenge he'd had in a long time. He'd have to see if Miguel was all right with possibly making this a regular thing, it would definitely be worthwhile.
Zoro spun around himself to ward an attack away, immediately choosing to thrust one of his blades forward. Miguel dodged as expected, only to find the second blade striking a wide angle before him. He put a stop to this with his sheathe, swinging it in a upward arc that knocked the startled Zoro's blade out of his hand before striking both his arms. This ultimately proved to be little above a distraction as Zoro found himself faced with a blade pointed towards his throat. And thus the spar was over.
''Wow, that was intense!'' Johnny managed amongst the apprevative murmurs and comments from the onlookers.
His partner readily agreed ''Miguel-aniki didn't even use magic but he won! Wow...just wow...''
And that was exactly what annoyed Zoro. He did understand that Miguel was held back by choice and circumstance (he wouldn't have asked for the spar if he'd realized that at first). Just like Usopp was currently telling them, this environment wasn't exactly ideal for him to risk it.
But still, he'd lost even when his opponent had been handicapped. He was physically stronger than Miguel, but the latter was faster with quite the skill and reaction speed to boot. He rarely met people who used their blades with such finesse.
How could he even call himself strong like this? As it stood now, what chance did he have at his goal?
Lost in thought as he was, Zoro completely lost track of his surroundings. A number of those at the Baratie seemed uncomfortable, few stealing glances before looking away. The next thing they knew, some had simply gotten up and left.
Usopp wondered what was even going on? They hadn't been this bad when they spotted the ship earlier so what left them so worried now? And to just leave like that...?
''...Sorry for scaring your customers away.'' Miguel's remark seemed to come out of nowhere but Zeff and Sanji clearly understood.
Zeff grunted ''Don't mind them, kid. If that's enough to make them leave then they can clearly do without the food.''
''Exactly.'' His sous chef concurred ''Good riddance to shitty idiots. Anyway, you'll have your table ready, they can't do anything about that.''
Whatever they were missing, Nami didn't like it. What happened exactly?
Luffy had been about to follow the others back inside when he heard a surprised cry ''That's why?!''
Blinking, the rubber teen tracked the voice to the source to find his friends with Zeff near the entrance, an incredulous Johnny carrying on ''So those guys just got spooked because Miguel-aniki's a mage? But he's so nice!''
''They don't care, brat. Lots of those idiots just follow a bunch of random crap and call them facts. Mages were bad people for wanting to safeguard their homeland and just being born with magic so that makes them monsters. That's all there is to it so far as they're concerned.''
''That's so stupid!'' Usopp's heart sank. It did actually explain why Miguel seemed that resigned earlier. His travels would've been anything but easy. Did people really hate mages so much just for their gift? It made no sense to him.
''You definitely won't be getting any arguments here.''
Scowling, Luffy completely agreed with his sniper. Sad to say, it wasn't the first time he'd seen such a thing. The circumstances were indeed different but the end result was two of the best people he knew suffering senselessly for something beyond their control. And it should never have been that way.
''Miguel?'' The young man looked over ''First order as your captain, never mind what those idiots say. You're one of of us and that's that.''
A smile ''...Well, I'm learning not to but roger that.''
Nami smiled to herself as she watched the two, any sign of the somber mood gone.
Zeff's words still rang in her head. She had no idea mages faced such a thing, just having magic made you some sort of pariah because the government was full of greedy assholes? What even gave them the right to force themselves over people this way?
It was hardly any different than the way they treated her and her people.
She could see Usopp and Zoro approaching the others, Luffy clearly enthralled by whatever Miguel was telling him. Her friends always seemed to be having a good time and she really envied that.
Friends...
So much for not getting close to any of them, who was she even kidding? Luffy had made one heck of an impression on her since day one and it had only been pride preventing her from admitting it. They'd only been traveling together for a short while but it was the most fun she had in years.
She was perfectly aware the others would have plenty of questions about her by now-especially after what happened shortly before their arrival to the Baratie...
Johnny and Yosaku were very interested in getting to know their old friend's crew, leading them to ask quite a few questions about each and every one of them. Hearing about Nami's travels led to the somewhat obvious conclusion that she was a bounty hunter, which the girl firmly denied.
''But you've been stealing from pirates this whole time.'' Usopp frowned in confusion ''And I saw all those bounty posters you had before, like Kuro and that weird shark fish...''
''S-shark? Nami-aneki, you're not planning on targeting Arlong, are you?'' Yosaku took her impassive face as an answer. ''You can't! He's a real monster!''
She knew that better than any of them...
''Yeah, Fishmen are already super tough and this guy...''
''Wait, Johnny, there are Fishmen in the East Blue?'' Miguel interjected, the former nodding '' What're they like?''
''Well, there's one group in the Conomi Islands. It's a pirate crew led by 'Saw Tooth' Arlong. Lke Yosaku says, they're real bad news. Those guys are apparently Grand Line veterans and they're rumored to have some real big connections that let them make their base here.'' Johnny missed Nami's fists clenching tightly.
''A pirate crew...? So then...'' A shake of the head ''...it couldn't be...''
''Oh, yeah you've probably seen Fishmen before. Does it have to do with why you're so interested in this?''
''Actually, it's something I've been looking into...''
''Enough!'' Nami's hands slammed onto the table. ''Enough about this already, I don't want to hear anymore.''
Zoro gave her an odd look ''What's eating you? They're just making small talk.''
The girl couldn't respond, only now realizing how it looked like to them. Her temper just got away from her but this would definitely raise questions. Ones she definitely couldn't answer.
''...It's nothing. Just forget it''
And yet despite her words, she knew they hadn't. She'd caught Usopp giving her an odd look for a while after that but no one broached the subject again. A good thing about her friends was that they never poked around people's pasts too much.
The reminder of how much time she spent with them only brought her deadline to mind. Good thing she was almost done, she wouldn't take any chances. Not with this.
While she didn't think she would find friends, least of all like this, Nami would very much miss this group.
''Nami?''
Eyes widening at the familiar voice, she spun around in time to hear the sandals clicking against the wood...
Chaos ensued in the Baratie with the reveal of a ship with a very familiar flag approaching the Baratie.
Luffy and Miguel arrived to find both cooks and customers alike panicking. A couple of cooks were chewing a defensive Patty out while the customers began hurrying out.
''What's going on?''
Usopp turned back ''They just said Don Krieg's ship was spotted coming here!'' Luffy's blank expression made his confusion clear ''I can get Miguel not knowing about this you too?''
Their newest crewmate immediately wondered if this had to do with Gin ''I heard a few things but...''
''They call him 'Foul Play' Krieg.'' Zoro offered. ''He's known for his treacherous nature, I heard how he once sailed to a town with a marine ship waving a white flag but he up and attacked it right after that.''
''Those guys think it had to do with Patty kicking Gin out but would someone like that really come just because his second in command was treated badly?'' Usopp wondered.
''It's hard to believe, yeah.''
Privately agreeing, Sanji felt they had that marine jackass to thank for this mess. If he'd just done his job and put Gin away instead of stopping to show off for his date...
Gin entered the restaurant, supporting a tall, blue haired man ''Please, we need some food...''
''Get real!'' Patty cut him off. ''Who would give you people any?''
''We have money now!'' Gin exclaimed. ''We're able to pay what you want, the Don hasn't eaten in days.''
''I told you, no way!'' Most missed Sanji heading to the kitchen.
''Please...'' Krieg was on his knees, unable to even support his own weight. ''...I really need it...I haven't eaten in so long...''
Gin was aghast ''Don Krieg, don't, it's beneath you. You said you want money, well we have it!''
Patty's response was to knock them both down ''You're not getting a thing! Someone tell the marines. This is a great chance to capture those pirates.''
While many of the observers applauded him, Johnny and Yosaku came rushing in through one of the entrances ''Guys, we have a problem!''
''Nami-aneki stole the boat we had tied to your ship, she took all the treasure!'' Yosaku cried.
''What?!''
''So she betrayed us?'' Usopp went on.
Luffy and Miguel sharing grim looks, not even the least bit surprised. Something that didn't go unnoticed by Zoro ''You guys know something?''
''...We let her go...''
Flashback:
''Nami?''
The girl nearly jumped out of her skin as a confused Luffy gave her an odd look ''What're you doing?''
''N-nothing!'' She cursed herself for the stammer ''I was just thinking of where to go next to find treasure.''
''Well, we could all go together. Why don't you tell everyone? We can help!'' Luffy returned brightly.
''...I told you, it's something I've got to deal with. Nothing to do with any of you.''
''What're you still talking like that for? We're friends, aren't we?''
Nami's immediate response was to say yes but she simply couldn't bring herself to speak at the moment. Miguel gave her a scrutinizing look ''You're leaving soon, aren't you?''
''Eh?!'' Luffy looked between the pair, finally taking note of the bags containing all of Nami's belongings and the treasures behind her ''Why? You got loads of treasure with us and we had fun together. How come?''
''I'm not joining your crew, you know that.'' More like she couldn't, She would've loved to keep traveling with them but...
But Luffy's expression made it clear that he knew something was amiss too ''...You don't hate pirates like you used to.'' The statement was said with complete certainty ''We're all friends. Why won't you stay?''
''I can't...'' The girl knew she wouldn't get out of this without telling them some truths. ''...I can't tell you but I just can't stay. I'm so close to my goal after all those years...''
One would think such a fact would elicit some sort of happiness but Nami just seemed weary. It left them wondering, not for the first time, what kind of goal would lead to all this?
''Then we'll come with you!'' Luffy's excited suggestion didn't so much as make her blink ''It'll be...''
''No.'' Her tone broke no arguments. ''This is my own problem and I'm dealing with it.''
''But...''
''I said no! End of story.'' She couldn't, she wouldn't get them involved. No way.
Miguel put in his piece ''Nami, I think we all know that whatever you're dealing with, it's a lot bigger than you're letting on. I've seen people motivated by greed but not many would go through all the risks you're taking to get the treasure and I highly doubt it's a simple matter of getting rich for you.''
''Yeah, exactly!'' His captain chimed in, remembering her and Usopp talking about the risks of their travels and how Nami avoided certain plans because it was too dangerous. ''There's some kind of problem, right? Why do you have to deal with alone?''
''You don't understand!'' Her tone bordered on pleading now, which only confirmed their growing suspicions ''...You can't...they're...it's too much...I won't drag anyone in this.''
''You won't be if we make the choice.'' Luffy countered readily, the girl only shaking her head as she struggled to hold back her tears.
Why did they have to make this so hard? Even now, a part of her wanted to tell them. Just the fact that they were trying to help like this, it just proved that they were every bit the good people she'd come to know. All the more reason to make her decision clear.
''Look, I appreciate what you're trying to do but I can't...Not after what already happened.''
Luffy's expression tightened, Nami was the only navigator he'd accept for his crew. But more than that, he hated just watching her suffer like this. Whatever was going on, something had to be done. ''...All right, fine.'' Both looked at him ''If you're that set on this, then do what you want. But we're coming after you.'' Her eyes widened ''I'll tell the others what happened and I bet you anything they'd want to come and help too, that's what friends are for.''
''We'll just see about settling things here first but if we're all in, we'll find you and get to the bottom of this.'' Miguel added.
Nami's form quivered before she clenched her fists, not meeting their gazes. She knew perfectly well that this was as good as it was going to get. ''...Fine...''
''Oh, so you left her to make the choice herself and this is what she decided...'' Yosaku trailed off.
Intrigue flashed in Zoro's gaze ''Well, we knew she was keeping something big. If we're going to get answers, fine. But don't go expecting too much.''
''We'll decide how to handle it all when the time comes.'' Luffy's statement elicited a nod in return.
''I've got a good guess of where she's going. But if I'm right, it just gets more confusing...'' Miguel trailed off.
Usopp blinked ''Why? Where do you think she's going?''
''The Conomi Islands.''
''What?!'' The bounty hunter duo looked particularly disturbed.
''But that's...that's where Arlong is...'' Johnny managed, Usopp blanching at this. ''...are you sure...?''
''I remember her reaction back when she saw his bounty poster, there's the way she reacted back when we talked about fishmen...odds are, whatever's going on, Arlong's got to do with it.''
The conclusion was a reasonable one but it did indeed raise even more questions. Just what was going on with her?
The sound of footsteps clacking on the wood alerted them back to the situation at hand. A newly returned Sanji pushed Patty away, giving Gin and Krieg a plate of food and a wine bottle.
''What're you doing?!''
''Here.'' Sanji tuned him out. ''Sorry, it took a bit to prepare.''
''Thank you, Sanji-san!'' Gin smiled, handing his captain the items.
''Have you lost it, Sanji?! I know you give food to the people we tend to kick out but this time you've gone too far!'' Patty growled.
''That's right, we can't help this guy. He's like a snake, he's only out for his own interest!'' Another cook added.
Krieg began to stand once he finished the food, ''Much better...'' He punched Sanji hard then, eliciting cries of surprise and fear from the cooks. ''...you've really stumbled across a fine ship, Gin. I'll be taking it.''
''What?!''
''No, Don Krieg! You promised we'd get food and leave!'' Gin faltered at his captain's glower.
''That bastard...'' Patty grit his teeth while Sanji glared at Krieg. ''...this is all Sanji's fault...''
''Why would he even feed that guy? He shouldn't have bothered!'' Johnny cried.
Krieg looked at the cooks ''I need a new ship, so it will be this one. My men are starving on our old ship, prepare food and water for a hundred people and deliver it to us immediately.''
''Don!'' Gin was struck down for his attempt to protest.
Naturally, most of the cooks were never going to agree and they quickly voiced their protests, angering Krieg.
''Let's make this clear, that was an order. You don't get to disobey me, no one does!''
''I'm so sorry, I didn't think he would...'' Gin looked up at the sound of footsteps, seeing Sanji heading towards the kitchen. ''...Sanji-san?''
''Where are you going?'' Carne asked.
''To the kitchen, of course. We have to prepare food for a 100 people.''
''He can't be serious...'' Yosaku's jaw dropped as they watched a number of the cooks block the blond's path.
''You're not going any further!''
''What happened already is bad enough!''
''Are you trying to help them take the Baratie?!''
''We won't let you do this!''
''Yeah? Well, if you want to stop me, you'll have to try harder.'' Sanji returned. ''I don't care who the person is but if I see them hungry, I'll feed them. That's what we're supposed to do as cooks.''
''It's not nearly that simple!'' Carne retorted.
Patty's eyes narrowed ''Just keep him there, guys. We'll do our best to protect the restaurant.'' He took out a small cannon. ''Did you enjoy your food, Krieg? Have a little dessert!''
He fired a cannon ball that hit the mark, creating smoke. People started to cheer and Patty looked smug and relieved at the result, something that changed completely as the smoke faded, revealing Krieg to be unharmed.
''That dessert was awful, I'll show you to respect me!'' Krieg raised his arms, revealing a number of firearms which were immediately fired. Luffy took care of all the bullets with a Gum Gum Balloon, making sure no one was hurt.
''As if something so pathetic could have scratched my invincible Wootz Steel armor. I have never lost a battle, thus I am the strongest!'' The pirate declared proudly.
That was when another surprise took place...
''Here.'' Zeff made his way through and tossed Krieg a big bag full of food. ''Now take a hike!''
''Chief Zeff?!''
Usopp stared on, feeling just as puzzled ''Him too?''
''Boss, what're you doing?!'' The cooks looked in on shock.
''It's like you're supporting Sanji in this!'' Patty exclaimed.
''They're going to attack us when they get their strength back!'' Carne added.
But their boss remained unflappable ''That's if their spirits survived their failure. They just barely survived the Grand Line from what I can see.''
''Wait, that's why that ship was totalled?'' Johnny didn't miss Luffy's baffled expression ''Just look right at the window, aniki. You can't miss it.''
The curious teen proceeded to do so, jaw dropping a moment later. Krieg's ship must have been strong at one point but now it was falling apart by the seams. Big chunks of it had already fallen and he had to wonder how it was even sailing right now.
''It almost looks like it's been sliced apart.'' Miguel remarked.
''Don't be ridiculous, there's no way a sword could do that!'' Usopp cried.
''You'd be surprised, skilled swordsmen can do lots with their blades alone. Especially in the Grand Line.''
Patty was still having trouble processing this ''All of Don Krieg's fleet couldn't last in the Grand Line?!''
The sniper gulped ''What kind of place is it?!''
Krieg spoke up then ''So that's why you seem familiar...you're 'Red-Leg Zeff' the captain of the Cook Pirates!''
''The old man was a pirate?'' Surprising as it was, Luffy found that it seemed fitting, oddly enough.
''So this is why he's that strong...'' Zoro trailed off.
''You've really fallen from grace, haven't you? Losing your leg now...'' Krieg sneered.
''I'm retired, I don't need a leg to cook.'' Zeff crossed his arms.
''I want your logbook.'' Krieg demanded. ''It will have the information I need to get through the Grand Line!''
''You're not getting it.''
Krieg's eyes narrowed ''I'd rethink that statement if I were you, or I'll destroy every last one of you worthless scum. I'll have it and find One Piece, I will be the Pirate King!''
Luffy was never one to let such a statement slide ''Hey! I'm going be the Pirate King!''
''Don't worry about it so much, Luffy.'' Miguel patted his shoulder. ''He clearly went unprepared and paid the price. If that weren't bad enough, he's still overestimating himself. All the logbooks in the world won't help that arrogant behavior.''
''What was that?!''
Zeff cracked a smirk ''I couldn't have said it better myself, kid.''
''There's a lot more to the Grand Line than it seems, you'd never last if you underestmate it .'' Miguel stated.
''What does a brat like you think he knows?!''
''He'd know better than you, Miguel's from the Grand Line!'' Luffy shot back.
Krieg's clear interest left Usopp glaring at him ''Luffy, you big-mouthed idiot!''
''You probably shouldn't have said that...'' Yosaku agreed.
''Fine, then I'll be taking the logbook and that kid. You'll be helping me get traverse through it.'' Krieg declared.
Miguel glared back ''Not happening.''
''Who said you have a choice in the matter?!'' The furious retort didn't even faze him ''I can't stand it...My fleet lasted a week because of the lack of information.'' Everyone except Zeff and Miguel were surprised at the news, but he went on. ''That's why I'll make sure to change things this time around, and anyone who opposes me will die.''
''Yeah? Well, you're not getting my crewmate either!'' Luffy returned.
''This is getting interesting...'' Zoro lay a hand on his swords as he and Miguel stood on either side of Luffy.
Usopp wasn't so daring ''W-we're really going to fight...?''
''I'm guessing you're the pirate Gin mentioned.'' Krieg acknowledged. ''So that's all you have for a crew?''
''There's two more!''
''Don't count me along!'' Sanji exclaimed.
Johnny blinked ''Is he counting Nami-aneki too?''
Krieg picked up the sack of food ''I'll go and feed my men. If you don't want to die, you had best not be here when I get back.''
''Guys, shouldn't we leave?'' Usopp inquired.
''Y-yeah, Krieg wants to take Miguel-aniki now too!'' Yosaku reminded.
''Fat chance.'' Zoro crossed his arms.
''Yeah, we're not running from that jerk!'' Luffy retorted.
''Sanji-san, I'm so sorry...'' Gin lowered his head.
The blond didn't even care for the apology, what good would it do now? ''That doesn't matter. We did what we had to. This is where it ends though, Krieg and his bunch are in for a rude awakening if they think they'll take this restaurant.''
Zeff's expression proved that he agreed completely ''We've done our job, that's that.''
''Boss, why are you taking Sanji's side in this?!'' Patty demanded.
''Do you have any idea what it is like to be truly starved?'' The sharp tone made him recoil. ''To wait and wait but not find any, no matter how hard you try? That's why I decided to make this restaurant...only Sanji understands.''
Eyes traveled to the blond cook in question, but his expression remained unreadable. There was clearly quite a story there...
Usopp looked at Gin ''Hey, I don't get it. How can all those ships fall apart in a single week?''
''I wanna know too!'' Luffy added. ''What happened to you guys, Gin?''
''Honestly, there's not much I can say...at first, it seemed all right. Things were really peaceful and it looked like we were having a good start even when there was no wind...''
''...Well, it's official. You guys never stood a chance of making it far with that blowhard.'' Miguel concluded. ''Krieg might as well be demented to think he can make it throught the Calm Belt with force alone.''
Sanji blanched at the thought ''Oh, hell...you got that right...''
''Calm Belt?'' Gin's confusion was clear.
Zeff just shook his head, that response alone proved Miguel's point. Luffy found himself thinking back ''Isn't that the place with the Sea Kings?''
''Yeah, as in chalk full of them! There's a damn good reason nobody goes to that place if they can help it and anyone who tries without even a bit of preparation is asking to get killed.'' Noting Gin's shock, Sanji's disgust with Krieg only grew. ''The fact that even his second in command doesn't know only means Arcadia's right, Krieg's just a complete imbecile.''
Luffy found himself concurring. He'd worked hard over the years to be able to handle monsters like Sea Kings but he knew very well that he'd be in big trouble against a lot of them alone, especially in the middle of the ocean. ''Oh yeah, Gramps' ship had to get some special stuff to get through there every time...''
''That's about what's expected, really. But what do you mean every time?'' Zeff arched an eye. ''Actually brat, didn't you say your name was Monkey...?''
''Yup! Gramps is a marine-sounds like lots of people know about him!''
Understanding flashed in the cook's gaze before he began to smirk ''Oh, now it makes sense...wouldn't have thought he'd let any of his family become pirates but you do remind me of him in several ways.''
''That's just mean, old timer.''
''That's the kind of reaction he would've had too.''
''Hey...'' The pouting captain looked away. It wasn't that he hated his gramps or anything but he'd rather not be lumped in with the man who came to beat them up so much in the name of 'training', thank you very much.
Fist of love, his foot!
''So, the grandpa of a monster is an even bigger monster, huh?'' Usopp droned, Luffy and Zeff nodding at once.
''Wait, wait, we're getting side-tracked.'' Zoro put in ''That can't possibly be the only route to the Grand Line...''
''It isn't.'' Zeff confirmed. ''That's what the kid and I were getting at before. Krieg's just an arrogant moron who only cares about his own goals.''
Gin was more than a little shaken ''T-that does explain what happened back then...the fleet was already so ravaged and we'd just gotten away...but just when we thought things were settling, someone attacked us. He...he destroyed our fleet of 50 ships just with his sword.''
''What?!''
''No way!''
''I wish it wasn't like that...'' Gin continued. ''...but I remember him so well...that huge black sword and those cold golden eyes, like a hawk...''
''You ran into him!?'' Johnny exclaimed while Zoro's eyes widened.
Miguel also caught on ''Of all the people...''
''Who are you talking about?'' Luffy looked at them.
''He's...the man I set out to defeat.'' Zoro started. ''The Shichibukai known as the best swordsman in the world, 'Hawk-Eye' Mihawk.''
Sanji looked bewildered ''Why the hell would a big shot like that attack them?''
''They might have disturbed his nap.'' Zeff offered.
''AS IF!'' Gin yelled. ''Who'd attack for such a ridiculous reason?!''
''Don't overreact, it was just a guess. You'd be amazed at what could happen in the Grand Line.''
A curious Zoro looked at Miguel ''...What kind of place is that sea?''
''Well, it's hard to describe but Zeff-san has the right idea. Anything could happen there.''
Excitement was practically pouring off Luffy ''It sounds great! I can't wait to get there!''
''Doesn't anything faze you?!'' Usopp was quite frankly more than a little unnerved. The thought of going to such a place where monsters like this existed...
''Miguel-aniki, should you be staying here? Krieg's after you too.'' Johnny reminded.
''I'm not helping someone like him.''
''And I won't let that guy win!'' Luffy declared.
Screams resounded from outside, making everyone look over in alarm, just in time to see the Krieg Pirates' ship falling apart...
The Krieg Pirates were forced to swim away from their collapsing ship, all looking to get to safety. The observers were left confused, thinking how sudden this all seemed...
''It didn't look like it was that bad off...why'd it just collapse like that?'' Yosaku wondered.
''Look closer.'' Zoro returned. ''This is deliberate.''
Krieg barely managed to stand on a bit of the debris ''He must have followed us here!''
The conclusion left his crew understandably panicking.
''Not again!''
''I thought it was over...why would he some all the way after us?!''
''We're going to die!''
Everyone could see a boat making its way through the waters, on it stood a man with black hair and sharp golden eyes like Gin described. It was indeed him, the Shichibukai, Dracule Mihawk.
''What do you want?!'' Krieg yelled.
''I'm passing some time.''
The utterly bland response angered the captain some more, leaving him to fire a round of bullets at the new arrival. Mihawk remained unfazed, and for good reason as he proceeds to use the black sword strapped to his back to send all the bullets to sea with a single stroke.
''Did he just...?''
''No way!'' Johnny and Usopp could only gawk.
''He actually deflected the bullets just like that. What incredible grace and technique...'' Miguel trailed off as the sharp golden eyes locked on him.
''A sword is worthless without the proper skill and technique tempering it.''
That was something he had learned and firmly believed as well ''That's true...''
''There's no need for such caution, young wizard.'' Mihawk continued. ''I have no qualms with any of you.''
Idly wondering how the man knew he was a wizard, Miguel decided that didn't matter now ''...You'll have to forgive me for being skeptic. Your reputation preceeds you.''
''Hn, fair enough.'' He returned. ''It's wise to be cautious. I notice that your hand hasn't so much as touched your sword though.''
''I'm not arrogant to assume that I can beat you in sword play. But that doesn't mean I'll stand and watch if you hurt my friends or any of the innocents here.'' Miguel knew fully well that all his training wouldn't have prepared him to face someone of this caliber but he had no intention of standing back to watch if things went south.
It was clear to Mihawk that the young man meant every word. He had no intention of fighting him but he would do so if given reason, despite the overwhelming odds. Very few gave such a word and meant it before him, that was something noteworthy in Mihawk's experience. ''Duly noted.''
''Whoa...Miguel-aniki's actually staring him down just like that?'' Johnny asked.
A smirking Zeff noted the interest in the Warlord's gaze ''That kid's got nerves of steel for sure.''
Zoro stepped up ''This makes it clear, you really are the best. It's been my goal to find you.''
''What is your goal?'' Mihawk inquired.
''To be the best!''
The man seemed unimpressed, now having an idea of where this was going. Zoro soon proved him right ''You're looking to pass time, right? Well, let's duel!''
Miguel looked at him ''Zoro...''
''I have to do.'' The wizard's expression made his opinion of the challenge quite clear. He might have lost to Miguel yesterday but that wouldn't affect his answer. ''I can't let this chance go...I've waited so long to prove myself.''
Mihawk's expression was cold ''You're a fool. If you are a swordsman of any ability, you must sense the difference in our skill just like he does.'' he added with a glance at Miguel. ''What in the world would compel you to do this?''
''For my dream...and a promise to a fallen friend.''
''Very well then...'' Mihawk let out a breath.
Sanji was shocked ''He actually wants to...? But there's no way he can win! This is crazy!''
Johnny and Yosaku cheered for their old friend while Usopp looked unnerved as he questioned Luffy about the situation with Nami, but the captain already knew that there was no point bringing this up now. Knowing Zoro, his decision had been set ever since they heard of the Shichibukai coming. He could only hope that he would make it.
Mihawk confused everyone by taking a small knife out of the cross he wore around his neck. ''This is what I will use for this battle. You may be strong in the East Blue but it's the weakest out of the oceans, that doesn't mean anything to me.''
Zoro snarled ''Don't regret that talk when you die, Oni-Giri!''
His opponent stopped his charge by leveling the dagger's tip to block the three swords, leaving many shocked.
''He stopped Zoro-aniki's signature move?!'' Yosaku exclaimed.
''How is that possible?'' Johnny cried while Usopp swallowed hard.
Unfortunately, things just got worse from there. Zoro continued to attack with all his might, launching a stream of strikes that never went near their target. Mihawk parried each and every strike with ease, clearly not even breaking a sweat.
''I'm not this far behind from the world's best!'' Zoro cried.
''You are so unrestrained. This isn't even a battle between swordsmen anymore.'' Mihawk stated.
''He can't mock Zoro-aniki like that!'' Johnny and Yosaku tried to step in but Luffy forcefully pushed them aside.
''...It's the truth, Johnny.'' Miguel didn't doubt that Mihawk was stating a fact. Zoro's anger grew as the difference in their skill became clearer and that made him all the more reckless. ''Zoro might as well be waving the swords around for the good they're doing...he's hardly even thinking, let alone using what he learned over the years.''
It all just added up to a quick way to lose. And if Miguel saw that, Mihawk definitely did.
''So what, you think he's going to lose?!'' Yosaku demanded.
Miguel honestly wanted to tell them no, to have the same faith they did in Zoro, but he already knew the outcome. He had the sinking suspicion that Luffy recognized the situation for what it was too.
Johnny and Yosaku's growing panic made it clear that they were coming to the same realization. ''Are you guys going to stand and watch? How could you?!''
''Yeah, you two are strong enough to make a difference. If you'd just step in-you're Zoro-aniki's friends!'' Johnny cried in desperation.
''Oi, lay off!'' Usopp stepped in ''It's because we're his friends that we're watching, you idiots. You've known Zoro for this long, interfering now, in the goal he's fought for all this time? That's going to be worse than any wound, you should know that better than anyone!''
The two could only look away, cowed by his glare. Usopp certainly did think they were right about Luffy and Miguel helping turn things around but they wouldn't do that. As much as they hated simply watching, they were respecting Zoro's wishes.
Zoro tried to attack with Tiger Hunt but was forcefully stopped seconds later, the reason revealed to be Mihawk's dagger stabbing his chest. His utter perserverance elicited the obvious question from his opponent''Why press on? That could have pierced your heart.''
''I couldn't...'' Zoro held back a wince as the pain from his new wound spread. ''...after all I went through? I just couldn't...it would make all I've done worthless. I would rather die than let that happen.''
''...Tell me your name.''
''Roronoa Zoro.''
''What a strong will, in return for your demonstration, I will take you down with this black blade.''
Zoro remained unfazed, holding his weapons at the ready, despite the obviously powerful blade leveled to face him. ''...I appreciate it.''
''Zoro-aniki!''
''Don't!'' Johnny and Yosaku cried.
''...He's not going to back down.'' Usopp pointed out. ''This is something he has to see through.''
Knowing that Mihawk wasn't about to hold back, Zoro decided to put his all in the next attack. Ignoring everything but his opponent, Zoro dashed past him, his sword at the ready with Mihawk stopping behind him.
Silence reigned for a few moments but it was soon shattered as two of Zoro's swords were destroyed, leaving only the white blade in mouth, Wado Ichimonji. Zoro didn't so much as flinch as the realization of his loss sank in, despite the gash appearing on his chest.
Mihawk blinked when Zoro turned to face him ''What are you doing?''
''A wound on a swordsman's back is his greatest shame.''
This elicited a smirk from the Shichibukai, who had grown to respect his opponent. ''Indeed.''
With that said, he cut Zoro down with a single slash of his black blade, Yoru, leaving him to fall in the ocean.
''ZORO!'' Usopp and Miguel cried.
''ANIKI!'' Johnny and Yosaku looked on in shock.
''DAMN YOU!'' Luffy jumped to face Mihawk. ''You're not getting away with this!''
Mihawk dodged the teen's kick ''Ah, so the two of you are his comrades? I'm impressed with you for restraining yourselves, difficult as it may have been.'' He sidestepped to avoid an oncoming punch. ''Don't misunderstand, I didn't kill him.'' This made Luffy pause in surprise. ''I expect that the young wizard must have noticed, that being the only reason he didn't follow on his promise. See for yourself.''
And indeed, Luffy found his friends settling Zoro on deck, with Johnny and Yosaku exclaiming in relief that he was alive. Luffy was quick to note that Miguel was the only one relatively calm and completely focused on tending to Zoro.
Usopp, Johnny and Yosaku watched as Miguel conjured his healing magic to see to their friend, greatly relieved to find that the power was closing up Zoro's wounds.
''Listen! It's too soon for you to die, my name is Dracule Mihawk! Find yourself and get stronger! I will await you at the top, surpass me, Roronoa Zoro!''
''To hear something like that from him...the Pirate Hunter won his respect.'' Zeff stated.
Mihawk wasn't quite done either ''You two...what are you dreams?''
Luffy didn't hesitate ''I'm going to be King of all Pirates!''
Miguel was every bit as determined as his captain, speaking when Mihawk looked at him ''I'll complete the Phantom Quest.''
''You three certainly have lofty goals.''
''I don't care!'' Luffy crossed his arms.
''That may be true but it won't stop me.'' Miguel returned.
''Luffy...can you hear me?'' Zoro spoke up, the magic giving him a much needed boost in strength. ''I'm...sorry for losing...and for making you worry. It'll be bad for you if I don't become the Greatest Swordsman, right?'' He proceeded to raise Wado in the air. ''So remember this! I'll never lose again! Until I defeat him...I won't be beaten by anyone! Is that allright...KING OF PIRATES?!''
Luffy couldn't help the grin spreading on his face ''YEAH!''
Miguel gave a small smile, having finished his work. He knew that Zoro would use this experience as a stepping stone to become much stronger.
Johnny and Yosaku looked alarmed as they saw him lean against the rail behind them, panting ''Miguel-aniki, what's wrong?''
''Isn't it obvious? Healing a wound like that would take quite a lot of power. It's actually impressive that he did it so well at all.'' Zeff pointed out.
''You three make for an interesting crew. I hope we meet again.'' Mihawk remarked.
''...Thanks.'' Zoro told Miguel. ''You didn't have to.''
''I wanted to.'' He returned. ''I'll be fine...just give me a few...''
''Oi, did you forget about me?!'' Krieg demanded as the man turned. to leave ''I won't let you get away!''
Usopp was really wondering if anyone could possibly be that dumb ''...Okay, you guys were right. He's brain-dead.''
''That's for sure.'' Sanji shook his head, he didn't even have to call any attention to himself. How did this guy get such a reputation again?
Mihawk clearly saw him for the fool that was, merely destroying the major remnant of the man's ship before leaving.
''Usopp, we need to get to Nami, you guys go find her!'' Luffy commanded.
''You bet!'' All what happened here lit the sniper's determination into a blazing flame. ''We'll get her back and go to the Grand Line together!''
''Hey, you coming?'' Zoro asked.
Miguel shook his head ''I'd like to see this through to the end, it wouldn't hurt for Luffy to have some back up here. But we'll see you guys soon.''
''Right.''
''Count on it!'' His fellow crewmates replied before heading to their ship.
Luffy watched them with a grin ''All right, let's do this!''
Let's cut off here now.
Well, how was this? I have to admit, this story just started out as a test run but I'm having fun with it. I don't really like to just copy and past canon stuff sometimes so I decided to put a few twists on things. Though I'm not sure about if the canon mentions anything about Krieg going to the Calm Belt, it didn't sound like his crew even went near Reverse Mountain so it made me wonder if that was how Mihawk found them.
Just to clarify, Miguel picked up on how Nami was growing tense the more they waited and how she seemed to be gathering up all her stuff discreetly. That, added with what her reaction to the Arlong poster and the secrets she kept made him decide to question her. Nami decided to agree to his proposal because she was almost sure he would stop her leaving otherwise and partly because she truly wanted to see what would come of it.
The Phantom Quest refers to finding and returning the Serenity Crystal to Elysia. It got that title because as mentioned before, facts about the crystal are near non-existent and no one has been able to find it in many years.