brandonmuoz499: Well, here's a new one. Glad you love the story.
Percbeth 4 life: You know, I honestly haven't given it that much thought...I have a bunch of plans for Miguel in the works but none of them would be affected by him being a Supernova. For now, I'd say the answer is no unless I see a point or a reason to make him one.
Marcii Winters: Thank you!
"You did it, buddy. That was so cool!''
Miguel half-smiled at Usopp, taking a moment to let this sink in. After a hard fought battle, he had defeated Vharley. It was quite a relief, hearing about the criminal back in Elysia was one thing but this? Vharley may have the experience that would best his but Miguel would be damned if he let the bastard hurt anyone he cared for.
"While I agree it was an excellent battle...'' The amused Robin's voice cut Usopp's chatter off. ''...why don't we let Quartermaster-san catch his breath for the moment?''
"Oh-oh, right, sorry!'' It took Usopp a moment to realize how he'd gotten carried away, expressing how relieved he was that Miguel won and that this was over. Miguel just laughed, not minding the enthusiasm even if it was a little tiring now.
Vharley had crash landed a few feet ahead but remained as he was. ''How...how could I...?''
"How indeed.''
Everyone started at the new voice before a fast moving figure landed nearby, sparks surrounding him.
Wyper growled ''Enel!''
The three Straw Hats were surprised, Usopp taking a step back ''That's him?''
The new arrival gave them a once-over before smirking at Vharley ''So that's the child you spoke of? What a disappointment, Vharley. You were so confident, I assumed you would end the battle in a matter of minutes but he certainly gave you a run for your money, hm?'' He ignored the wizard's growl. ''Well done, boy. You gave me quite the show. Unlike this talentless hack, you show much promise. It really makes all he had done over the years seem ridiculous. Just how are you supposed to take vengeance on any of your enemies if you can't even defeat one child?''
"I thought they were actually working together but...'' Usopp figured it looked like they basically just tolerated one another and now that Vharley lost, even that was that.
Miguel watched him warily, he'd certainly never expected they'd run into the instigator behind all this now. But if he was anything like they heard, they couldn't handle this recklessly. Likewise, Wyper kept a hand on his weapon, the only reason he hadn't attacked was that something felt off. Enel seemed to be trying to goad Vharley, but why?
He continued ''To think you actually thought yourself capable of standing at my level, you imbecile. What a humorless joke. Perhaps he has done you a favor, you're likely to be defeated once more if you go back again.''
That was Vharley's breaking point ''SHUT UP!'' He bellowed at the top of his lungs, standing to glower at Enel. ''I've just about had it with you, you so called God! I won't let you look down on me, you delusional bastard! I'll kill you all!''
"He can still fight...?'' Robin wondered, missing Enel's smirk.
It was Miguel who realized what the older wizard wanted to do and he spoke the next word without even trying to think ''Stop it!'' The three nearby looked at him in confusion. ''He's...!''
"Silence! I'll show you your place, you brat. Think you're afraid now? I have't lost-this is only over when I say it is!''
That was when the issue hit Robin. ''That fool...''
Vharley was already casting a spell, conjuring Belcusas the Thunderclap once more. However, the monster made no move. Before anyone could react, Vharley let out a terrible scream. They could see something glowing around him for a moment before it faded and Vharley fell to his knees, clutching at his chest as he struggled to breathe. Around the same time, Belcusas suddenly roared and began thrashing about, seemingly running off.
"What just happened?'' Usopp gaped.
"...He's simply facing the consequences.'' He and Wyper looked at Robin. ''Remember what I said before? Lost magic may be powerful but there's one crucial fact the user has to keep in mind.'' Her expression was cold as Vharley collapsed ''It always comes with a price.''
Surprised, Wyper glanced at Miguel with new understanding. ''...I see, he was trying to help the imbecile.''
Miguel had heard a few stories about Lost Magic. All of them left him with the impression that he was better off avoiding it. He didn't know all the details but overusing Lost Magic had terrible consequences. The quartermaster couldn't sense any magic at all from Vharley, he couldn't even the presence of his magical core. Which led him to believe that Arc of Embodiment must have destroyed it, Belcusas' rampage was just the magic going wild. Thanks to his training, he knew just what this meant for Vharley. A part of him actually felt bad for the man, he was an enemy but Miguel wouldn't wish this fate on anyone.
Why would he even do this? Was he just that full of hate and spite?
Enel looked at Vharley disappasionately ''So that's it? My mantra told me there were consequences to overusing his power-truly, what a monumental fool.'' To Miguel, he added. ''Such compassion is wasted on him, he would not even spare you a second thought. And to answer your other question-he is indeed that spiteful. Hate was one of the few things that kept him going and now seeing you, the scion of the family that destroyed his plans the first time was bound to incite his wrath. He was never going to simply go down. All I did was speed up the process of his fall.''
A roar alerted them of Belcusas coming back, Enel barely blinked ''It's time to dispose of the trash.''
With a wave of his hand, he unleashed a powerful burst of lightning that quickly overwhelmed the beast. Miguel's eyes widened as the attack neared them and he mustered his power to create the strongest Ark Shield he could use...
Luffy continued to look around as he leapt from tree to tree. Aisa had spotted one of her friends but then he'd gone in a different direction. But then they were nearly thrown off one of the trees by a sudden flash and wave of force (which was actually Enel's lightning) and it left them face to face with more of Enel's men. He swore he looked away for one minute and Aisa was gone-what happened?!
He groaned ''Where is-GAH!'' He froze at the massive, familiar figure coming his way. The snake!
"Not again!'' The teen really hated running from battle but there wasn't much he could against that thing. It was frustrating-how could he throw it off his tracks this time? ''Stupid snake!'' He leaped off a small hill, missing it charging after him.
The next thing he knew, everything turned black.
"Nami-swan!''
The girl turned with a start to find a delighted Sanji rushing over ''I finally found you, my love! Thank goodness, I was so worried-I would die before I let any of those lowlives lay a finger on you!''
Gan Fall blinked ''Ah, so you're a couple then-well, I'm glad you could meet up.''
"As if! How did you even make that leap?!'' Nami barked while the cook looked blissful at the idea. ''The day Sanji settles with one woman is when hell freezes over.''
This was something the whole crew, even Robin, came to agree on quite quickly. The fact that Sanji had yet to raise a word of protest against that said a lot.
Shaking her head, she continued ''Haven't you seen any of the others?''
"I was actually following a lead to them. Some of that bastard Enel's men talked about running into people with their description and I was sure they came this way...'' Sanji scratched his head. ''...I think at least one of them is at the ruins at least but it sounds like they've been having trouble because of that huge snake, it's been practically rampaging everywhere.''
Nami looked pained ''Just when I think we don't have enough trouble...''
As if to emphasize this point, just then two voices cried ''There you are!''
The two looked bewildered as a pair of men landed in front of them, both more than ready for battle.
"I wonder if this counts as tempting fate.'' Gan Fall mused.
''Don't rub it in!'' Nami cried.
"Not to worry, Nami-swan. This isn't trouble, just a few obstacles we can push out of our way.'' Sanji waved a hand, angering them.
"What was that?!''
"Don't look down on us, you bastard! We'll show you the power of God Enel's men!''
"Now where have I heard that load? Right, right, with that blowhard from yesterday.'' The cook deadpanned. ''You guys wouldn't happen to know him, would you? You look like talking dumplings too.''
"There's a limit to how arrogant you can be!''
"That was our brother! We, Satori and Hotori, are here to avenge him!''
Scoffing, the cook's response was cut off by Nami, who prepared her Climatact. ''Nami-swan?''
"I'm fighting too.'' She said firmly. ''I can't keep relying on you guys forever. We agreed that we'll get the gold no matter what, remember?''
His expression softened, knowing she was thinking of Merry. Their talk with the ship had certainly lit a fire under everyone. Even Usopp complained little and put his all into getting the gold, everyone was sure as hell bent on doing their best for their beloved ship. ''...Of course.''
"In that case, allow me to do my part.'' Gan Fall joined them. ''I certainly have no intention of being a bystander now. Shall we, young lady?''
Sanji stepped back. ''I'll leave this to you then. Oi, if Nami-swan gets hurt, you're answering it for, old man.''
Gan Fall inclined his head, spear at the ready ''Let's begin.''
The last few minutes had gone in a blur for Aisa. One moment she spotted one of her friends nearby and she was going go warn her about Enel but then came that snake. Luffy had been trying to help her when the Divine Soldiers arrived and then she lost track of him, the only thing she could do was run. A huge black shadow had sent her in a panicked rush into the forest and everything suddenly went black.
However, the real surprise came afterwards.
"Luffy?!''
He turned, perking up ''There you are! Geez, what were you doing? I told you to stay close!''
"I panicked, sorry...where are we?''
"Some weird cave, it's squishy and wet...I thought I was moving before but I can't see much...''
Aisa blinked twice ''How can it be...'' She started poking around, noticing that it was indeed what the teen said. It was really too dark for her to be sure of anything so she headed further. And that was when the truth sank in. ''...this isn't a cave! The snake swallowed us!''
"Ehhh?!''
"We're clear.'' Robin told Usopp once she finished surveying the area. The sniper proceeded to lead Miguel to a big flat rock, allowing him to sit.
Miguel had certainly come through for them once again. Enel's attack had caused quite enough damage to go around with but it was the quartermaster's quick thinking that spared them the worst of it. Miguel managed to mitigate the blast with his Ark shield. It was how they could still be up and about now. The effort had clearly been quite taxing as he could barely stand straight now. Neither of his companions doubted that the strain on him had only been made worse after his battle.
"But man things sure got crazy-how did we land in another war?'' Usopp couldn't think of another way to describe it. Upper Yard was at war and they were in the middle of it. ''Those other warriors can't be Skypieans. Not when Enel scares them so much they won't step even a toe out of line. Think they're Shandians like Wyper?''
"Most likely, yes.'' Robin nodded, Wyper had gone off after Enel earlier and they didn't know what became of him. ''We never had the chance to learn the truth but it seems there really is more to the situation here than it seemed.''
"Nothing unusual there, it's like trouble finds us wherever we go.''
"Oh?'' She looked amused ''I did hear such comments from the others, you must have some interesting stories...''
Usopp snorted ''Luffy's probably got us all beat there.'' The captain didn't talk about his past but looking at him now, Usopp didn't doubt that he had some colorful times in his childhood.
"I wouldn't be surprised. By the way, speaking of him, have you ever noticed something odd? The captain's name is Monkey D. I seem to recall a certain infamous Marine with the same name.''
The sniper thought that over, finding that one name did actually come to mind. ''Oh, yeah-Garp the hero! How did I not notice...but it has to be a coincidence, right? Luffy of all people being connected to someone like that?''
"Who knows? One thing I found about our captain-he's always likely to surprise you.'' Robin half-smiled.
"No arguing there.'' He agreed at once, smiling as Miguel downed some of the medicine Chopper made them all take. The reindeer found a plant with some very good restorative properties, along with a variant that was excellent for wizards. Thus, he made use of them to prepare potions for everyone to use at the time of need. It wasn't a cure but it would definitely help them keep going.
Miguel had to hold back a smile at the unexpected turn of conversation, remembering his talk with Ace in Alabasta. He never got around to telling anyone but Ace happened to let slip that their grandfather was a Marine which led to Miguel asking who it was...
He wondered how the crew would react if they knew Robin was right.
His thoughts took a darker turn as they kept going, remembering the aftermath of the battle. He'd honestly never thought something like that would happen. Lost magic was something close to a fable for him growing up, he'd never thought he would see anyone with such a thing. Everyone had been firm on how dangerous it can be despite the benefits...and Vharley only proved that to be true.
He had to hold back a wince at the thought of what happened to him. The man was terrible through and through but...
Destroying a magical core can be very dangerous and it often led to death, even those who lived would have their lives changed forever. For Miguel, who had been born with magic and was surrounded with it all his life, the loss had been especially poignant. And all of it happened just because the man was so full of hate that he let it consume him. The young wizard had come across people like that before, especially after the port battle-that had been the worst. Things had gotten so bad that the Council had to lock up a few extremists in jail. He'd thought it was excessive but his uncle was all for the idea and only now did he see how right he'd been. Master Yuan had even called it an opportunity for them to cool their heads-they were likely just stopped from making an even bigger mistake. And it was proved to be true as the people had help from others to get them to listen afterwards, with people from the Council coming to talk them down.
The Council did explain its stance and it made sense, they hated it too, everyone was hurting but they couldn't act on it. They were faced with terrible odds but the Council's duty was to Elysia first and foremost. They wanted everyone to focus on recovering instead of letting hate rule and pursuing revenge and Miguel had never been more thankful that they had.
Now he understood hating the world government-they had certainly made their lives hell. Miguel didn't think he would've trusted them even if he hadn't become a pirate, look at how some in the Navy still looked at wizards. He'd just grown used to the way things were and never gave it much thought. But...
That...wasn't right, was it? After all, time didn't heal all wounds, in fact some couldn't ever be healed. Running into Vharley was just a reminder of how much damage the war caused. He didn't know if the man would've been any different otherwise and he still believed Vharley should be held responsible for his actions but...he felt like something had to be done. All the hate and pain the government caused his people-he wasn't sure it was simply gone. He'd seen what the result of it festering would be and he wanted to avoid that. The thought of anyone back home winding up anything like Vharley sickened him.
Maybe he was overthinking this? What if he really was worrying over nothing? As much as he wanted to believe that, the nagging feeling just wouldn't leave him.
"Berri for your thoughts?''
He blinked and looked at Robin, noticing Usopp giving him a curious glance ''Yeah, you're awfully quiet. Sure you don't want to rest up some more?''
The former shook his head, giving them a small smile ''Just thinking...it's nothing big.''
Usopp wasn't convinced, he suspected that this was about the last battle but he wanted to hear Miguel say it ''If it wasn't, it wouldn't be bugging you so much. It's just like you told me, you can talk to us.''
"Mm, it can wait though. We've got enough on our plate here.'' His eyes narrowed as he looked ahead, a few buildings were slowly becoming visible. ''We haven't seen much of Enel's troops for a while-I think we might be closing in on their HQ.''
The sniper blanched while Robin's brow furrowed ''I hadn't considered that. You might have a point. Seeing how Enel was firsthand, I find it hard to believe he'd settle for just anywhere in Upper Yard.''
"Exactly and it looks like they're trying to cover as much space as possible. They had to have started somewhere. I don't think they'd be expecting us to come by here. And on the off chance that I'm wrong, Enel and the priests probably have them scared stiff.''
"I can believe that...'' Usopp thought back to Enel's attitude, the God clearly cared for no one but himself. He was about to ask Robin if she could scope out the area but she had been thinking ahead. He could see a few eyes appearing on trees just ahead, Robin speaking up after almost a minute.
"No one's there...still, that's curious...''
"What is?'' Usopp blinked.
"You'll see when we get there. It won't be long now.''
And indeed they did, the strangest thing about the place became apparent at once.
"This...wasn't what I expected.'' Miguel looked around.
"Same here!'' Usopp added. They had followed the map. Robin made sure of that. So...''If this is the city of gold then...where's the gold?''
Sanji found another similarity between the two new arrivals and their brother. The three had that same annoying mantra ability and none of them knew how to counter it.
On the plus side, Nami and Gan Fall were actually doing well. The mantra was the only thing giving Hotori and Kotori an edge and the cook, saw to his immense satisfaction that they were becoming aware of that. Hotori used an axe and flame dials while Kotori had Impact and farts stored in a flavor dial, which just seemed gross until they found out the hard way that it was to enhance the effectiveness of the flame dial.
Too bad for them, they were facing someone with an effective counter to that.
"Rain Tempo!''
Hotori stared as the sudden move let Nami put out all the fires, something he certainly didn't expect ''I didn't think that weird weapon was so effective...!''
"It's only a few pathetic tricks, what does that matter? Come on now!'' Kotori grabbed his brother's hand and the two began to spin. A bewildered Nami watched, wondering just what they were up to. All they did was spin around and around...
But then it hit her when they charged at Gan Fall, who held up his weapon to stop the attack from the impact dial. Of course, those two looked so similar that it was hard to tell who was who in the first place. Naturally, they couldn't be sure which dial and what type of attack they'd be facing next.
Sanji cried out, looking all ready to charge in but Nami gave him a firm look and shook her head. She hadn't changed her mind, she wasn't about to give up. Not when they had to get the gold for Merry. It was the best they could do for her. Nami could take care of herself!
Those idiots kept underestimating them and the navigator knew she could turn that to their advantage.
The two soldiers blasted through some of her heat and cool balls, not thinking much of them. But that was their mistake, as they quickly learned when the Nami they hit disappeared. Mirage Tempo took full effect as more duplicates of the navigator came into existence.
"W-what the...?'' Kotori gaped.
A horse's whinny brought their attention to Pierre as Gan Fall attacked, his lance nearly nailing one of them had they not used the impact dial. Gan Fall surprised them though by using his own impact dial at once, both items clashing negating the blows. Pierre flew away from the burst of a flame dial's power and quickly descended again, his partner using the momentum for a more powerful strike with his lance. Kotori was left winded, stepping away from his brother, who called out in alarm.
"Where are you looking?''
The next thing he knew, Hotori's arms were strapped by an odd little contraption he hadn't seen before. He tried to move but it was too late, Nami activating Cyclone Tempo to send him flying into a tree just as Gan Fall knocked Kotori out with one last strike.
Nami allowed herself a proud smile, that felt rather good. Sanji made to rush over ''Nami-swan, that was wonderful! You make fighting into an art form which only suits your beauty...''
"Hai, hai...'' She rolled her eyes. ''...not going to deny, it's pretty satisfying.'' She glanced at their downed enemies before looking at Gan Fall. ''Think they'd have anything valuable on them?''
The man laughed ''Well, you are pirates so...why don't we find out?''
Robin wasn't all that fazed by the lack of gold, if anything she was thrilled to be here. She knew the gold was necessary for Merry and was happy to help the crew find it but truth be told, this place sang to the historian in her.
Curiously, the language reminded her of the books she'd seen in Jaya. It was actually very close to their language. What she could decipher of the writings was a little about how the city came to be. One part even talked about how the founders of the city came to be and it left her thinking back to their suspicions about Upper Yard being originally a part of Jaya. It was looking more and more liek that was the case. The parts she could read weren't very clear but they did indicate that the ancients Shandians had to accomodate to life after a massive change.
"It doesn't mention anything about gold so far...'' She told her crewmates. ''...but there is something about a treasure called the fire of Shandora. If I have this right, it's a bell.''
"A bell?'' Usopp had been wondering what people who would make a city of gold would consider a treasure but this definitely never crossed his mind. ''What kind of-?''
A big shadow appeared over them, landing right in the midst of another wall with inscriptions. It was Yama.
"I finally found you, intruders. You might have gotten lucky last time but you won't escape now!''
Robin's eyes narrowed ''Show some respect, you oaf. This is an important piece of history...''
"Don't make me laugh! Why should I care what you say?'' He punctuated the statement with a kick to another wall, sneering. ''It's just a worthless pile of rocks and debris. We could destroy it in a heartbeat if we want to, stupid woman!''
Robin stood ''Long Nose-kun?''
Usopp swore the temperature dropped ''Y-yeah?''
"I suggest you stay close to Quartermaster-san. I'd like to handle this oaf personally.''
"Yes, Ma'am!''
Miguel was admittedly just as surprised. He knew history was important to her, look at the lengths she reached just to get to Alabasta's poneglyph. But only now did he see just how passionate she was about it. ''...Well, that guy dug his own grave. We just have to let Robin put him there.'' She bit back a smile at this while Usopp gave him a dry look.
"For a joke, that's way too close to the truth.''
"You dare mock me? Prepare to die!'' Yama charged, preparing an axe dial.
Robin took her stance, a number of arms appeared, tripping him. Yama went careening into a small tree, the dial's power destroying it and making debris fall on him. The girl proceeded to hurry off, causing her crewmates to realize that she was trying to get Yama away from the ruins.
"Why you-! Get back here!''
Swinging his Ten Fold Axe, Yama went after her with a vengeance, wrecking everything in his way. A shockwave from his weapon nearly threw Robin off but she swiftly regained her balance, using a multitude of arms to catch herself before leaping ahead. It was easy to see why she was the partner of a Warlord for years, Robin was practically controlling the battle.
Yama kept attacking in wide arcs, likely hoping to catch her out. But Robin was much faster and so avoided his strikes with ease. Usopp was gaping ''Have I mentioned I'm glad she never wanted to fight us seriously? She's making him look like a chump!''
Miguel nodded, suspecting Yama was likely coming to realize that too if his growing aggravation was anything to by.
"You're just going to keep scurrying around like a rat, huh? Let's see how you like your stupid history in pieces!''
With that, he began swinging his axe dial around at the buildings. Miguel was all set to intervene, knowing how this was important to Robin. But the look in her eyes made him pause ''...Looks like she's got it all covered.''
Usopp nodded, Yama was clearly for the size of his brawn, not brains. This was not going to end well for him.
Numerous hands appeared under Yama, tossing him into the air. Robin crossed her arms ''Trente Fleur...'' More hands appeared all over him ''...Toss.'' With that, he was thrown face first into a tree.
Groaning, he retaliated by trying use his axe dial, swinging it once more towards Robin. But then two hands covered his eyes with three more grabbing the ten fold axe before using it to cut Yama, who fell to his knees.
"I-I'm sorry!'' He blubbered. ''P-please l-let me go...I know I was wrong-history is important! I won't do it again!''
Robin's expression remained cold even as she barely looked at him ''The fact remains that what you did is unforgivable.'' She turned to join her companions, Yama trying to grab her then. ''Cien Fleur: Delphinum...'' Multiple hands sent him to the ground. ''...and Doce Fleur: Clutch!''
Yama choked, her conjured limbs snapping his back, making him blackout in seconds.
Miguel smiled as she rejoined them ''Good work.'' She smiled back, both looking at Usopp as he put in his piece
"Y-yeah, that was...whoa...any chance you can, you know never do that to me?''
"Oh, I'd never.'' Robin returned serenely ''I think I made my point clear, wouldn't you say?''
" Crystal clear...'' The sniper was still a little unnerved as he glanced back at Yama, making a note to never get on her bad side.
He nearly jumped as the bushes rustled to their left, turning around with his slingshot at the ready. Expecting trouble, the sniper was rather taken aback to find the new arrival was in fact...
"Zoro?!''
The swordsman blinked, surprise turning into relief ''So it was you guys...''
"I must admit I'm surprised you found us.'' Robin remarked.
Eh, nothing to it. What, did you get lost?''
"I'm not even going to point out what's wrong with that line...'' Usopp blinked, spotting another familiar figure on his back. ''...whoa, is that Chopper? What happened?!''
"I was getting to that...'' Zoro explained how he found the little reindeer in one of the priests' layers, having lost to the fourth of Enel's priests, Ohm. He knew from the man that Chopper had defeated the third priest earlier but Ohm and his ordeal of iron overwhelmed him.
He beat one of them alone? Go, Chopper.'' Usopp grinned while Zoro set the reindeer down per Miguel's request for the quartermaster to heal him. ''And you beat that jerk, right?''
"I guess...''
The sniper looked confused while Robin quirked a brow, Zoro rubbed the back of his neck as he elaborated ''...I'm not really sure what happened back there, but he wanted to use something that he felt would help him and I think it backfired. I never got to find out what it did because the next thing I know, we're down here. Could've sworn it looked like a lacrima though...''
"So it's something he could've gotten from Vharley? Hard to picture that guy helping anyone but himself.'' Usopp scratched his head.
Robin couldn't help but think he hit the nail on the head. She wouldn't be surprised at all if the priest had been set up. ''I think that's exactly the point...''
"Wait, you found the guy?'' Zoro cut in, Robin giving him a brief re-run of their encounter and the consequent battle earlier. ''Good, so it's another one down...so if this place was supposed to be our goal, what next?''
Nami could hardly believe how fast things snowballed around them.
They found Conis and Pagaya, both having wanted to help their crew only to discover the truth about Enel's plan. Everyone agreed that the people of Angel Beach should be warned thus the father and daughter volunteered to do it.
But then Enel arrived, he had proven to be an even bigger monster than she imagined. Talking about destroying all of Skypiea, just tearing it apart because he believed it was his right as 'God', all because he thought it was unnatural. Never mind that it essentially meant he'd commit mass genocide without even batting an eye, and on top of that he thought of all the battles going on as some survival game. It made her sick.
It was only Sanji's speed and Gan Fall's quick thinking that spared them the worst of Enel's assault. Sanji swiftly kicked up some rubble which mitigated the blast a little with one of Gan Fall's dials also helping there, but it was still enough to knock them out for a short while.
"Conis-chan...'' Sanji sighed. ''...I wish I could've gone to help protect her...''
" Don't be ridiculous. You need to take it easy-even a monster like you needs to recuperate after that attack!'' She held back a groan as he remarked on her kindness and how happy he was that she worried about him. ''...Sanji-kun, we really need to sit down and talk about your priorities. Anyway, Conis should be fine, Pagaya's there and they're going out of this war zone. I'd say we should get everyone out of here but I don't see where we can go given Enel's power.''
"Agreed...it would seem defeating him is our only option.'' Gan Fall grunted, holding back a wince.
"As much as I hate to say it, that's easier said than done. We had enough trouble back with that shitty ashtray marine back in Alabasta. What the heck can we do to defend ourselves against lightning?'' Sanji frowned.
"So we finally get here and the gold's gone...'' Chopper had been really motivated to go as he wanted to do his part for Merry. Where does this leave them?
"Come on, we can figure something out.'' Zoro said bracingly. ''We sure as hell didn't come all this way for nothing.''
"I think there may be more to this place then we believe. Perhaps if we...'' Robin trailed off, noticing something odd. Blinking, Zoro followed her line of sight to find a stone at the opposite side of their path. This one had inscriptions too but they were quite different from the ones in the ruins.
"Isn't that a poneglyph?'' Miguel had only seen a drawing of one but it was definitely very similar.
Usopp blinked as Robin nodded ''You know what it is, Miguel?''
"I heard a few stories back home but...there's supposed to be a bunch of them scattered all around the world. The language is nearly unreadable to many but its said that they hold secrets from many, many years ago. I never thought we'd see one all the way here.''
This reminded Chopper of something ''Wait, like that one from Alabasta?''
"Come to think of it, yeah...'' Zoro also recalled what Cobra mentioned about the tomb. ''...so this is what Crocodile was after. But, wait if it's unreadable...''
"He said nearly unreadable, Swordsman-san.'' Robin corrected. ''I can read it.''
Usopp looked intrigued ''Oh yeah, the king did say...I can picture people wanting it if the info's really that rare...''
"More than you'd think.''
"...but you actually read the one back in Alabasta and lied to Crocodile about it?''
"I just did what I set out to do.'' She returned airily.
Miguel half-smiled ''Well, there's a difference between wanting to learn the information and wanting to use it.''
Robin's lips twitched and Chopper nodded ''It's really interesting. Robin, can you tell us what it says?''
She made to respond but then...
"I found you!''
What looked like a long iron blade suddenly surged at them, the group quickly getting away. Zoro scowled ''He's back...''
Ohm came into view, looking livid and more than a little singed. ''You're not getting away this time!''
"I think someone's got their memory screwed up, the only reason things wound up this way is whatever that thing you used back there was.'' The swordsman shot back, reminding him that the device he thought would be a game changer blew up in his face.
"Hmph, after you, Vharley's next! You won't get anymore lucky breaks!''
Zoro glanced at the others ''None of you interfere. I'll finish this.'' Drawing his swords, he faced Ohm ''I don't rely on luck and I definitely don't need it here.'' He charged, the priest meeting him head on.
Luffy turned his head at the sound of a scream, spotting someone rolling down behind them. He squinted ''Wait, Nami?!''
She looked equally taken aback ''Luffy!''
"Oh and the weird old guy!'' He added, noticing Gan Fall. ''I don't see your horse though...''
"Pierre's likely with your friend Sanji. Both of them tried to help us when the snake suddenly appeared but we were seperated in the chaos.''
"Yeah, that was totally out of the blue...'' Nami stood, groaning. ''...how'd you wind up here?''
"It ambushed us too, I've been trying to make a way out but it's no good.'' He huffed as Aisa caught up to them.
The navigator had a thought ''...By that, I'm assuming you mean you've been trying to punch your way out.''
"Yeah! How'd you know?''
"Because it's totally like you, idiot!'' She proceeded to smack the back of his head. ''You can't force your way through everything. You probably made the thing so mad that it went berserk!''
"I've been trying to tell him but he wouldn't listen.'' Aisa groused, glaring at the downed teen in annoyance.
"But we have to do something!'' Luffy shot back.
"Then we can try reaching the snake's mouth to get out-what you're doing definitely isn't helping!''
Luffy smacked his fist on his open palm ''Ah, we could try that!''
"Obviously!'' Aisa cried, completely fed up.
Nami rolled her eyes, this was just so typical. Gan Fall cleared his throat ''Well, since that's out of the way...''
The young girl froze ''You!'' Without warning, she snatched his discarded spear and pointed it at him, to their surprise.
"Whoa, whoa, what're you doing?'' Nami stepped in between them.
"Dealing with an enemy! He was the former God before Enel, he's just like the Skypieans who took our home. I won't let him get away with it!''
"But that was way before either of you were even born!'' She countered. ''What's this going to solve?! It's a senseless grudge!''
"No, it isn't! You don't know what it's been like for us, I'm going to take his head!''
Gan Fall remained oddly calm, as if he'd been expecting nothing less. ''...You're right, we wouldn't know what it's been like for you. The Shadorians had their home taken after all they went through, what a horrifying experience. If taking my head would satisfy your people, I would gladly offer it. But it won't-there's far too much hostility between the two sides. I would like nothing more than to apologize for all the Shandorians who spent the the past four hundred years looking for their homes. I am sorry from the bottom of my heart.''
Aisa's anger was now replaced by confusion. Conflict warred in her eyes, sensing the sincerity in his words. It was clear that she didn't know what to think anymore. ''You...you can't just...what do you expect would happen now? That we can just along? We can't get along with the bad guys!''
"Does he look like a bad guy?'' Nami frowned. ''I know your people had it rough but you have to try and look forward. The war was so long ago, you can't keep dwelling on it and letting it rule your lives.''
Luffy calmly took the lance and put it down ''He's trying to apologize, hear him out. Not the best time to kill a man.'' Aisa's eyes welled up with tears as she looked back at the weapon. ''But we can talk about this later, how about we get out of here?''
"Eisen Fork!''
"Rhino Revolve!''
Ohm grunted as the sudden spinning move threw him off, steadying his grip on his blade and continuing the offence. Usopp frowned ''What's the deal with that sword? It moves like a whip but at the same time...''
If I'm not mistaken, that's a Dial at its base.'' Robin observed. Those little devices sure came with quite the variety, didn't they?
"Bull Needles!''
"Eisen Back!''
Zoro let out a frustrated grunt as a solid wall formed to halt his attack, swiftly changing tack to get around it. Ohm unleashed Eisen Fan, turning the blade the shape of a fan, cutting Zoro's chest. The former bit back a pained cry, refusing to let him have the satisfaction. Smirking, Ohm continued to unleash a swift barrage which overcame Zoro's attempts at guarding thanks to his mantra.
"You forgot already? I know just what you're going to do.'' He taunted.
Chopper ground his teeth at the mention of that troublesome ability, wishing he could help. But he was far from recovered and knew he'd only get in the way. Besides, Zoro was firm that he could handle this and they all knew how he hated people interfering in his battles.
"Yeah, well your mantra sure as hell didn't stop you falling for your buddy's trap.'' Zoro countered, Ohm scowling at the reminder. He wasn't even trying to taunt the priest though, this was him stating a fact. After all, going what his friends said, Vharley definitely wouldn't have wanted to help them. Zoro swiped fast, taking the man by surprise and forcing him back. Their mantra may be handy but it was far from infallible. Continuing on the same vein, he kept up the pressure, eventually managing to wound Ohm.
"Don't press your luck!'' He swiped his sword, with it twisting once again and nearly nailing Zoro's side. Another strike hit his leg, making him stumble for a moment. Ohm charged but Zoro then jumped, not even blinking as the Eisen Whip followed him. He then spun in the air, forming the shape of a ball with his blades, successfully repelling the weapon.
Zoro attacked the second he landed. ''Dragon Twister!'' Spinning once more, he was able to strike Ohm with the tornado like attack.
"Gh-just die! Eisen Whip!''
Zoro dodged the projectile attack, continuing to do so even as it trailed after him. He jumped back and let it plow through a tree stump, Ohm withdrawing his weapon with a wave of his hand.
"Go, Zoro!'' Chopper called.
"Yeah, win it!'' Usopp added.
"What supportive friends. I'd hate to crush their hopes.'' Ohm smirked. ''But the fact is, you're going to lose...''
An annoyed Zoro cut him off ''You were like this before too, if this was a talking contest, you'd win first prize. Now put your money where your mouth is.''
"How arrogant! Well then, you only have yourself to blame when you die. Eisen Fleuret!''
His weapon suddenly moved faster, forcing Zoro to jump away but it suddenly twisted. It would've nailed his back had he not moved in time, making it graze his side. Angling one sword, Zoro lashed out to stop the elongating blade. Ohm withdrew it again, scoffing ''I didn't even need mantra to predict that move-ha!'' He jumped up to strike, Zoro readily meeting him in response.
They clashed over and over, Ohm trying to use his mantra to get the upper hand with Zoro relying on his reflexes to guard to the best of his ability. The priest suddenly thrust his sword again and it twisted and elongated in a way that almost nailed Zoro's shoulder, it reminded him of that cage trap the man had set earlier.
The thought made Zoro realize something. Ohm's attacks seemed random at first but he was trying to push him into a specific area outside the ruins. Could he be...?
Zoro proceeded to move behind a huge stone wall, the Eisen Whip immediately coming after him. Ohm smirked as the wall began to fall while his friends looked on in alarm. He tried aiming his blade to strike once more, only to be surprised when he couldn't.
That was when Zoro came into view and they could see that he was blocking the Eisen Whip with his own blades. Alarmed, Ohm tried to move but it was too late.
"Three Sword Style: 108 Pound Caliber Phoenix!''
Three powerful flying blade attacks flew at the priest, who let out a pained gasp as they cut him before finally collapsing.
"That's that.'' Robin looked on in satisfaction as the other three began congratulating Zoro, who just waved a dismissive hand.
"Don't make a big deal out of it, guys. I just did what I had to do.''
"Well, it's still great...'' Miguel blinked at the sound of footsteps hurrying over, both he and Zoro whirled around to its direction while their friends tensed only to find...
"Ah, it's that scary bazooka guy!'' Chopper recoiled.
Wyper's expression made it clear that he hadn't expected to see them. Robin gave him a curious look ''I thought you said you were tracking Enel down?''
"That's just it, he...!''
Then lightning flashed overhead before a single bolt descended, revealing that the self-proclaimed God himself had arrived.
Once again, Aisa wondered how it came to this. And they had such a good plan too...!
"Luffy, you're the worst! The absolute worst!''
A laugh ''Sorry, sorry-things sure changed fast, huh?''
Nami had a lacrima that generated winds she asked Miguel to procure for her, having been looking to augment her abilities with the Clima Tact. On the hand, Gan Fall had two Jet Dials. They were able to construct a makeshift raft with a few pieces of lumber they found lying around, no doubt remnants of things the snake swallowed before.
They hoped to use both items to propel them out before the snake could react. And it almost worked...if it wasn't for the slight hitch where Luffy chose to grab the Jet Dial, the combined force and wind pushing him right off their ride. Since he was carrying Aisa, that left the two of them tumbling right back here.
"I swear, it's like nothing fazes you!'' The little girl fumed. ''What do we do now?!''
"Worrying isn't going to do any good, we'll get out of here.''
"We better!''
Nami and Gan Fall looked on from outside, trying to keep track of the snake. Unfortunately, they had been too late to act once they recognized the problem. The two were thinking on their feet, wondering how to fix this.
"I swear that idiot is out to give me gray hairs before I even turn twenty.'' The navigator bemoaned, the worst part was that she wasn't even all that surprised that he messed this up.
"You all seem to have it rough.'' Gan Fall noted sympathetically.
"You don't know the half of it...''
"Well, well what do we have here?'' Enel smirked ''I took the gold from the city but I heard you say some interesting things, woman. Something about a bell...''
Robin blinked, he didn't know?
He glanced at his downed subordinate with disinterest ''...Ohm's arrival was unexpected but pointless in the end. He'd already lost before. Speaking of which, the game's almost over but there are too many survivors. One has to go-who do you think it should be?''
That didn't even merit thinking about for them. Most of those present immediately pointed their weapons at Enel, their answer clear as day.
Well, let's stop here.
This one proved trickier than I expected but whew, there we are.
I remember Lost Magic having some really bad consequences in Fairy Tail so I figured this one wouldn't be too much of a leap. But yeah, Vharley lost his magical core because he overused Arc of Embodiment. Just as mentioned above, he never would've taken the loss lying down so he probably would've found a way to get back at his enemies either way. All Enel did is really speed up something that could've happened sooner or later. Losing is bad enough in his book, losing to Miguel makes that even worse. He let his hate rule him so much that this is what it lead to.
But this kind of mindset is exactly what Miguel's worried about. And not without good cause, as you might imagine. He gets it, way too much happened in the past for them to simply move on. He's still trying to deal with the past himself. There's too much pain and hate and he doesn't want the Elysians to let that rule them lest they wind up like Vharley. Meeting him was an eye opener and it really has Miguel deliberating stuff, but this a point for later.
Oh, right-before I forget. The battle with Ohm went a lot like in canon so I didn't add it. Ohm tried using an item Vharley gave him a while back but it hurt him. See, Vharley happened to come across Upper Yard first so he decided to stay. He gave a bunch of items he was adjusting to them as a gesture of good will. Since he knows about their haki, he just tried not to think about what would happen and because they didn't think much of him, they took it in stride. Enel on the other hand is more suspicious but he didn't have enough proof to be sure and either way, he doesn't care about his men enough to do something. They both don't like each other but Enel's been making use of Vharley while he'd been there.
Hm, that's all I had to say so...thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!