LW: Much like Oda himself… I have 1 more chapter to crack out before the new year. Please enjoy, I'll see you all in 2024
Rubber King and Mirror Master - New World Chaos: Monkey Business of New World
Plaza
"It has been decided that all of Hody's human slaves, are free to leave, preferably as soon as possible. Where you go from there I don't much care, as long as you go" Neptune declares, the rest of the humans being freed from their chains, the pirates Artemis freed earlier helping to unshackle their compatriots and lead the charge out of the plaza, as well as eventually off the island.
"Is that wise Sire? Not to question your judgement, but these humans understandably harbour great hatred for Hody jones, what if they turn that hate on the rest of our people?" The Seahorse minister asks fearfully.
"If they do anything we'll arrest them like any other criminal, but they've not done anything to us, and were wronged by Hody and his men by enslaving them. This island has always been a welcoming place for travellers and pirates, provided they behave themselves, and I won't allow paranoia to turn us into something we're not. As for the New Fishman Pirates…"he growls the last part, causing all those still conscious of Hody's army to panic, plead and attempt to shift blame "...you will all now live on the main island with the rest of us"
"WHAT!" For potentially the first time that day, everyone in and around the plaza had the exact same reaction.
"Allow me to clarify. You will be serving your time, under the supervision of my sons and the army. I will be providing you gainful employment, and you will all behave yourselves. Also, I shall be sealing off the Fishman District, nobody will be going in or out once it's been cleared" Neptune declares, then turns to his sons "By the way, have we heard anything about Straw Hat's condition?"
Fukaboshi looks embarrassed for a moment as he sighs "He, absconded"
"He fled!"
"The princess followed them, and given Vander's condition I completely understand" the eldest prince adds, these humans defeated the man who terrorised her for over a decade, of course, she'd want to stick close to them
With the Straw Hats
"Why did you leave?" Shirahoshi asks as she floats alongside the ship, an adorable pout on her face.
"We're not big on attention for one" Zoro responds "You see all those people down there watching our fight? If we stuck around they'd have tried treating us like heroes or some crap. It's just a pain"
"Plus we're all wanted criminals, so even if they didn't want to thank us, some of them might still want to arrest us" Valentina adds, lying spread eagle on the grass resting after the life or death workout holding up the Noah had been.
"But you're nice people, plus isn't it a good thing to be seen as a hero to a nation?" Shirahoshi asks in confusion.
"She's not entirely wrong there, and like it or not we are considered heroes within the Kingdom of Alabasta for dealing with Crocodile and Baroque works as well as ending the artificial drought" Kaos pipes in, letting Medusa curl up on his lap.
"Don't confuse her. Listen, a man who shares his sake with others, that's a hero, but I want it all for myself!" Zoro attempts to metaphorically explain
"Nobody wants your sake, and stop putting dumb ideas in the princess' head!" Nami shouts, this close to punching the idiot swordsman.
"I could have said the same about money, and you'd have agreed with me you know" Zoro chuckles, as Nami stands there, contemplating, then punches him….. Because he's right.
"Come on Jinbe, why won't you join? I can tell you've got adventure in your blood, I can feel it!" Luffy whines as he hangs out of Jinbe's kimono.
"I'm sorry and as I've already told you, it's impossible for me to join your crew. Though I can't stress enough, how much of an honour it is to be offered the chance. I'm sure it would be the adventure of a lifetime to sail with you all, but I'm afraid I don't have the luxuries to indulge such pleasures. I have responsibilities I must perform, and I've put them off long enough as it is. Once those obligations are fulfilled though, I promise you, on the blood we share, that I shall set sail and seek you out, no matter where in this world you are when that moment in time comes to pass" Jinbe explains and declares "provided you still wish to have this old Fishman on board" he attempts to lighten the mood, giving a half smile at that last statement.
Luffy frowns before shouting "You better keep that promise Jinbe, we'll be waiting!"
"He's really quite taken with Jinbe" Robin hums in amusement.
"He helped them rescue Ace, and is an honourable guy. It's clear Jinbe made a great 1st impression, and you know how Luffy is, what he likes he tries to keep with him" Vivi chuckles, a tired smile on her face as she sips her tea.
"Luffy says you're worth the wait, so while we'll give you as long as you need, we do hope to see you soon, got it Jinbe?" Alvida asks with a mock scowl.
"I'm grateful, thank you all for being so understanding" Jinbe responds with a nod.
"So, where to next?" Usopp asks the crew "I mean is the Log Pose ready? Are we heading to the New World or not?"
"YOU'RE LEAVING! SO SOON!" Shirahoshi cries "But I haven't even gotten to thank you properly, we've barely gotten to know each other and you're already going?"
"Squeehoshi, calm down" Luffy says directly "We'll go when we're ready, not a second sooner or later" he continues, even as Shirahoshi sniffles sadly
"Hey! Hold up a second!"
"Captain we're being hailed" Carue shouts from the crows nest "Looks like a member of Neptune's army"
"Thank you" the soldier sighs as he slows down beside them "Ok Sir, they're here" he relays to a Den Den Mushi on his lap
"Excellent. Luffy my friend, why did you leave in such a rush, I wanted to thank you for all that you've done for my people, my country and most importantly my family?"
"I don't wanna be treated like a damn hero!" Luffy shouts bitterly.
"I can understand that, no parades or accolades, but at least let me feed you, we never got that banquet I promised due to several compounding incidents. It's the least I can do to pay you back, and show you how much your actions mean to me" Neptune offers
"Banquet?! Sure, we'll be right over in no time" Luffy answers, grinning widely as he does, already starting to drool at the thought of all that food.
"We were invited to a banquet? How did I miss that?" Alvida whines, getting a jab to the boob by Vivi before she settles down.
"You didn't, Hody invaded before we got that far" Zoro replies with a shrug.
"Ok, we'll meet you there… once we pick up Hachi and Camie" Luffy declares, getting a chuckle from Neptune before the Sunny turns and heads towards the Sea Forest, Shirahoshi tagging along much more happily.
A little later
"It gives me great honour to formally welcome you to the Royal Palace, and I am eager to speak with you during the banquet. The Long Flounders will be arriving shortly to take you to the main Hall" Neptune announces, as the straw hats disembark and a pair of bubble-coated flukes swim up to them, awaiting their participation.
"So, this is the royal palace of the Ryugu Kingdom, the stories don't do it justice" Vivi grins as she stares out through the bubble, though still nestled between Luffy and Alvida.
"Holy crap, look at all the soldiers" Usopp gasps as they enter the main hall, to the thunderous cheers and applause of Neptune's army.
"Thank you for saving us Straw Hats!"
"Words can't fully express our gratitude!"
"You're genuine heroes of Fishman island!"
HERO! HERO! HERO! HERO!"
"God Damn it! We're nobodies heroes! We're just here to eat your meat!" Luffy shouts, before getting a smack to the head from a 'too tired to care' Kaos, even if he understood the sentiment, there was no point screaming at them, they'll do whatever they like after all.
"You'll be fed soon enough, but first look at the stage" Shirahoshi suggests as she swims past the group, surprising the Straw Hats, mostly because they didn't even know there was a stage somewhere in the gloom
"And now, before the banquet, held in celebration of the Straw Hat pirates deeds to the Ryugu Kingdom, may I introduce to you, the Diva of the Ocean: Maria Napole" was loudly announced, before a spotlight centred on the stage, revealing a mermaid with a thicc, Rubenesque figure "And her backing band, the Swing Jazz orchestra!"
As the Fishmen began to play, Maria belted out a high operatic aria, entrancing all who heard, and keeping all attention on her.
"And now our special guests, their beauty has entranced sailors, pirates and Fishmen since time immemorial: The Mermaid Cafe dancers!"
"You self ignite we're pushing you off the fish" Zoro grunts, one of the few not distracted by the singing, or the dancers.
"He's right, we can't have you burning us, or our fish, there could be really bad consequences if you do" Valentina agrees, resting her head on Victor's shoulder.
Of course, at this point the banquet began to slowly commence, starting with several mermaids swimming around and serving sake to the guests, Zoro most eager of everyone, but most of the group at least had some given it was a party, and of course, the royals all had their own cups or gourds to drink from.
"Do you care to give a toast before the Feast Your Highness?" the announcer asks
"Before we drink and then stuff our faces, I wish to take a moment to express my humble gratitude. The Straw Hats…"
"FOOD!" Luffy bellows, interrupting the moment, but starting the feast in his own way. Neptune chuckles, raises his drink in a simple toast 'to peace' which was mirrored by basically everyone in the hall.
"And now, we drink!" Nami cheers, clicking jugs with the mini mermaids and Camie.
"Nobody wants to listen to the ramblings of a sad old man, but you could have at least pretended" Neptune mutters and pouts, before waving in the food.
"This was a good idea" Artemis grins, joining Chopper in eating as many sweets as she can, partially because between Kaos, Luffy and Alvida, she's not sure anyone else was getting SeaKing Meat on this fish
"Why can't we finish every adventure with a banquet?" Alvida laughs as she munches through more seaking meat, getting an eager nod from Luffy, and a chuckle, even if paired with an eye roll from Vivi as she drains her sake cup.
"Though given how happy everyone is, why's the big hairy guy so grumpy?" Luffy asks around 3 mutton.
"You, can't be that stupid, can you Luffy?" Usopp groans.
"Hey, cheer up you old king dude, it's a party!" Luffy shouts, getting an attempted scowl from Neptune, before accepting a toast and glass clink from Luffy and a few of the others, mostly at Shirahoshi's pleading gaze.
Meanwhile, the princes were in shock and mild awe at Nami's alcohol tolerance, given she was only giddy drunk despite the many cups littered around her.
Later that evening
"Do do de la, oh there you are Pirate lady. You wanted to speak to me?" Neptune hums, a little boozed up from the party, but still mostly there.
"Yes, this seemed like the best chance I had to get you alone far as I can tell" Robin muses on the balcony, then watching in amusement as Neptune blushes and fidgets
"I, I'm very flattered my dear, but I swore to love my dear sweet Otohime as my one and only, she may be dead but she still holds my heart and shall forever more" the Merman proclaims
"That's not what I meant, I'm perfectly happy in a polyamorous relationship with the father of my beautiful daughter, among a few other very lovely ladies" Robin giggles at the mix-up, as well as how Neptune's blush gets even deeper, then he pauses and strokes his beard.
"Newgate's boy, he does seem rather sweet on you and the children, exactly like his father described, and nothing like the papers claimed. And multiple women, each at least as lovely as you, quite the man is he no…"
"I'd like to know who Joyboy is" Robin states bluntly, seeing that the booze had caused Neptune to be in a rambly mood, and wasn't herself in the mood to discuss her love life.
"Oh" Neptune says flatly as his gourd drops from his fingers, now stone-cold sober.
"I saw it myself, on the poneglyph in the Sea Forest. Who is he apologising to?" Robin asks.
"You can read it?" Neptune gasps
"Myself, my daughter and Kaos. they can due to bloodlines and magical things I don't fully understand, while I am the last survivor of Ohara. You don't have to tell me anything if you don't want to, I can just drop it if it makes you uncomfortable" Robin explains and offers, but Neptune shakes his head and settles down on his bubble like a beanbag chair.
"No, I'll tell you everything I know. You've proven yourself trustworthy, a few times over at this point. What I know of Joyboy, is that he was a person from above the sea, who lived during the 100 year void…"
"Which is more than 800 years ago" Robin interjects
"Indeed. The message you translated, he wrote to a mermaid princess who lived on this island during that time. It is an apology, for failing to keep a promise he made to her, and this island" Neptune explains
"What promise?"
"I'm afraid I don't know the details, and if you're asking then it's not written anywhere on the Poneglyph. All I know is that the legend states that someday, someone will come to fulfil that promise on behalf of Joyboy. That is the story the Royal family hold and protect, and one we firmly believe will come to pass one day. So we've continued to look after the Noah for generations, protecting and preserving the symbol of Joyboy's promise, so that, when the time comes, it shall be ready to fulfil it's destiny, whatever that may be"
"I see. I couldn't help overhearing that the Noah had been moved to the Sea Forest after the Seakings had removed it from its collision course with the island. I can't help but wonder, if he too could control or command them" Robin muses aloud, surprised when Neptune laughs.
"My dear child, that isn't a power of Joyboy, but the princess he was apologising to who held that great power. The power of Poseidon!"
"And now Shirahoshi has that same power, she even used it today, so it's not exactly a secret, not anymore" Robin notes
"It never was, not exactly. It's one of the reasons Vander targeted my daughter, to get his hands on that power"
"He's not the only one, I read a poneglyph in Shandora 2 years ago, that gave the location of an Ancient Weapon. It said it was on Fishman Island. That 'weapon' was Poseidon"
"Many years ago, there were 3 powerful entities, who could destroy the entire world. They were ancient weapons named after gods. Pluton, Uranus, and Poseidon" Neptune states.
"And one of those weapons, is the mermaid princess" Robin summaries
"Indeed"
"Then we're kind of in a difficult position, as the less people know about her power the better, and there were a LOT of witnesses to what she did. Can this secret even be contained at this point?"
"They would never let the outside world know of her power, not that it matters as very few people even know what each of the Ancient Weapons can do, they don't know her power is that of Poseidon" Neptune argues, and assures Robin, who still looks unconvinced.
Elsewhere
"Luffy, while you're sitting here stuffing your face, are you aware of what's been happening out in the world?" Jinbe asks seemingly out of nowhere, and Luffy seemed to think so given his look of confusion at the question.
"Um….. no?" the rubber boy admits.
"It's fine, I might as well get you all up to date, though I get the feeling at least some of the information is known to the more…. World traveled of your group" Jinbe hums, chuckling at his own joke.
Transition!
"Wait, Aokiji and Akainu fought each other and now he's the Fleet Admiral?" Luffy shouts at the news.
"Seems even missing an arm he kicked the lazy icicle dick's arse" Valentina chuckles bitterly
"I'd heard bits and pieces, but not much on details" Kaos admits with a sigh, getting a nod of agreement from Vivi.
"Then I guess I'll need to fill in the blanks. It all began 2 years ago, when Sengoku resigned following the fallout of the Marineford War. Sengoku nominated Aokiji to be his replacement, and given he was well-liked among his men and the general marine contingents, it made sense. But many high-rank members favoured Akainu, so he became a contender as well"
"I heard there was some heavy fallout when the story broke about what he did to the Guardian Serpent…. Sorry Kaos" Vivi pipes in, feeling the hostility radiating from the older pirate
"Indeed, that revelation did kill off a lot of his support with the younger generation, as well as many of Medusa's peers, but those with similar, Hardline stances of Justice probably view what he did as the right decision, especially given what her child has become, and what he is, similar to Ace's heritage warranting his execution" Jinbe elaborates, his features emotionless and stony "For that reason and probably several others, Aokiji was vehemently opposed to Akainu taking the position. This came to blows surprisingly quickly, leading them to their faithful battle on an island somewhere in the New World. It was the 1st and last battle between the two admirals, whoever lost would withdraw their candidacy without protest, ensuring the victor would become the new Fleet Admiral. As the rest of the world knows, they fought for 10 straight days, the 2 equally matched, the true pinnacle of the Marine's power and might. But on the 10th day a victor was found. Akainu, or as he's officially known, Sakesuki, became the next fleet admiral… and Aokiji, resigned not long after"
"Hm, I mean I know the Red Dog is a bastard, but I didn't think Aojkiji would just up and leave, quite the shake up isn't it?" Victor hums in contemplation.
"Doesn't that mean there's only 1 Admiral left, Kizaru I believe?" Kaya asks curiously.
"Technically correct, with Akainu promoted and Aokiji resigning Kizaru is the only Admiral to have retained his position these past 2 years" Jinbe nods "I'll get back to that later though. Before going into the new World, you need to be aware of 2 important changes that have occurred these past couple years"
"We're listening" Luffy nods, actually focused on the Fishman.
"Good. Now first of all, there's the fact that under Fleet Admiral Sakesuki's rule, the navy had gotten even stronger, despite their loss of Aokiji. And for another the Blackbeard pirates have been causing havoc throughout the New World, it even getting called the Greybeard Wars in the newspaper"
"Greybeard?" Zoro repeats "But you just said the problem was Blackbeard"
"He means the fat gorilla keeps poking at Pop's territory hoping to find a weakness and usurp him like he tried to do at Marineford" Kaos hisses, Artemis and Medusa both looking concerned by his flowing aura.
"Partially true, Blackbeard has been causing trouble for all of the Yonko, even if yes his focus has been mostly centred on Whitebeard, probably due to being a former member meaning he was most familiar with the territory already, not helped by the fact he managed to capture and settle down in Hachinosu, forming a sturdy base of operations there, and hunting for Devil fruits if the rumours are anything to go by" Jinbe continues "of course, Whitebeard still being alive and kicking, means he can't just rock up to any island and claim it as his own… but even if he won, Whitebeard still lost some islands"
"What, but why, he showed the world he's still got a lot of fight in him?" Usopp asks, confused and shocked.
"Because he also reminded himself that he's getting older and things are catching up on him. Some territory was lost, consumed by Blackbeard's rampages, but others, such as even Fishman island, were given to some of his fellow Yonko, as long as they promised to protect it as he once did. It's how this island became under Big Mom's protection, along with a handful of others, though most of the territory he gave away was actually given to Red Haired Shanks"
"Oh, then they'll be fine, Shanks is a nice guy" Luffy laughs, then goes to get more food.
"Luffy-chin, there you are" Camie cries as she enters the side chamber the group had gathered in "What you guys all doing hiding over here, the party's for you silly"
"We know… hey wait, where'd Squeehoshi go?" Luffy hums, as well as wondering how they managed to lose a 30ft long mermaid.
"She was feeling tired, plus she's not used to all this social stuff and large groups so I think she'd just had enough for the night" Camie explains as she returns to the water.
"Ok….. Hey guys" Luffy calls out to the group "It feels like there's some kind of monster here"
"Is there a monster Papa?" Medusa asks, clinging to Kaos' waistcoat.
"The answer… oh for fuck sake"
"I'd ask how you missed, whatever you just noticed, but you've been drinking almost as heavily as Zoro tonight so, mistakes were made. What's the issue?"
"Caribou" He scowls, to which every member of the crew grimaces, while Jinbe and Camie look confused "One moment please"
POP
"Did he just, Kuma to wherever Caribou is?" Vivi asks, even she's not entirely sure what she just witnessed
"While drunk too, turns out his impulse control is Luffy level when that happens Kyahahaha!" Valentina laughs "So, are we going to go deal with him before he causes more trouble?"
"He's a small fry, but we could at least handle the clean up. Zoro! Sanji! We're heading up t deal with a sludge monster"
Elsewhere/a few minutes ago
"I never knew parties could be so much fun, but everyone's eyes on me, it feels weird" Shirahoshi mutters to herself as she lies in bed "I just need a little rest, hopefully the Straw Hats won't leave without saying goodbye"
Her peaceful sleep was interrupted by the arrival of Caribou, the swamp logia ensnaring her arm and then enveloping most of her body as she tried to flee.
"I don't intend to hurt you princess, but you'll be worth your weight in gold when I find the right people to take you in, I've heard many things about your powers, there are so many people who could make good use of you" Caribou cackles as most of the princess is covered in his swamp mud.
'Someone, please help me' Shirahoshi cries, her struggles no match for the villainous logia.
Pop
"Did you hear something?" Caribou asks "Eh, must have been the wiiii-ahhhhhh!" he screams as a large, clawed hand clamps down on his head.
"My demands are very simple, you let the princess go, and I don't kill you" Kaos snarls, and Shirahoshi's eyes widen.
'He came for me, just like the stories' her eyes glisten with unshed tears
"Wai,wai,wait, let's be reasonable here, you wouldn't want to traumatise the poor princess by forcing her to witness a murder right before her eyes" Caribou attempts to reason with the younger, but much more intimidating pirate, who's response, was to charge up a quake bubble around his head "OK! I'll go I'll go, no need to get so violent" the swamp man whimpers, reabsorbing his gloop and freeing Shirahoshi, only then does Kaos let him go "We cool now? I'll be on my way?" he asks with an attempt at a friendly smile, to which the response is a haki infused kick to the ribs, shooting him off the side of the tower, back down to Fishman island.
"And we're done" Kaos sighs, Shirahoshi noticing that his eyes were a metallic purple with a distinct lack of pupils and silver concentric rings within it "Are you ok Shirahoshi?"
"EEEEEEEE"
And just like that, Kaos goes from avenging hero, to for the second time today, a teddy being crushed/smothered by the tidal wave of bosom belonging to one Princess Shirahoshi.
"Quick this way, I hear a lady in peril!"
"That's just Squehoshi, the fact she's even making that noise means she's fine" Luffy waves off as first Sanji, then much more sedately himself and Zoro appear outside the Hard Shell tower, to witness the princess swaying as she cuddles a 'not trying that hard to escape' Kaos.
Later
"Thank you so much, I had no idea that thieving ruffian was still in the palace. Normally security would be practically watertight, but with everything that's happened and the party, we've been a little lax it seems" Seahorse minister states as he bows to the Straw Hats, once Kaos had managed to free himself from Shirahoshi's cleavage.
"No trouble, he was a slimy little bastard but weak. The biggest question is how he got loose, I thought Franky had him locked in a barrel last we saw him" Zoro muses, rubbing his chin, but overall that question wasn't worth investigating in the eyes of the 4 pirates.
"Wait a minute, you mentioned a treasure thief? Specifically, that guy Kaos just kicked off the side of the palace?" Nami asks, the others having a bad feeling about this, and are correct as she turns on her heels and confronts Neptune "And you're just going to let him run off with national treasures?"
"Now that my people are safe, material possessions mean little to me, what matters is my family" the King argues.
"Oh cut the crap there's no way you believe… So does that mean we can take it?" Nami asks, her eyes shifting into Berri symbols.
"If you can retrieve them, go right ahead, I won't argue with you, it's the least I can do for the nation's heroes" Neptune agrees, getting a yip and a cheer from the Cat burglar, before turning around and punching in the direction of the idiots, Kaos dodging with Future sight, (And putting Neptune & Shirahoshi between himself and their navigator) leaving Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji to get knocked off the tower down to the main island after Caribou.
The tension in the area was cut when a guard rushed over to them "Your highness, it's Hody's captains, their cuffs have come off!"
"WHAT!" Neptune bellows, swimming after the soldier at a frantic pace.
Holding Cells
"So, this is the side effects of the energy steroids" Chopper notes as he looks at the withered, aged forms of the previously roided out Fishmen "Literally burning your lifeforce to the point you age yourself to the end in a matter of hours"
"All power comes at a cost, this is just the most dramatic, or at least the most immediate" Robin states coldly.
"I'd still say the Odium is a much more immediate cost, given you die in a matter of hours after consuming it" Vivi argues, but the point still stands.
"All very true, but at least it means Hody's men won't be a threat to anyone anymore, and their legacy of hate will hopefully be purged much sooner when they pass" Neptune assures them, and himself, before leaving the husks to their own devices.
Elsewhere in the palace
"Was he serious about us getting to keep all the treasure?" Usopp asks, understandably suspicious and doubtful.
"Yep, that's what he said" Nami nods, grinning widely
"Super! We're gonna be filthy rich pirates after this adventure!" Franky cheers, Brook strumming his guitar in celebration.
"Are Luffy and the others going to be ok, it's a long way down from the palace to the main island" Shirahoshi frets, wringing her hands nervously.
"Luffy will be fine, he literally just got done kicking Hody's ass, there shouldn't be anything that would even phase him at this point, and if there is… they should have helped us yesterday" Kaos assures her, the last part a half joke, but it was enough to make her giggle so mission accomplished.
Down below
"FOUND HIM! That was easy" Luffy chuckles, finding an unconscious Caribou, surrounded by all the treasure he'd stolen, everything having been ejected from his Devil fruit powered storage system when he was knocked unconscious by the headfirst crash into the ground.
"He sure managed to steal a lot of shit, think we should have tried call for backup or something?" Zoro wonders aloud.
"No way, Nami's depending on us to get this treasure back to her, and I for one won't let her down!" Sanji declares passionately before the trio packs up all the treasure into sacks and heaves them onto their shoulders, with just a little difficulty.
Elsewhere - Candy Factory
"Well Minister of the Left?" a Lion Mink in a pink suit growls
"Please have mercy Mr. Pekkoms" the catfish Fishman begs "Hody and his men attacked the factory just yesterday, we've not had time to repair and produce enough candy for the tribute"
"And that's our problem, how exactly?" Pekkoms asks gruffly "You're supposed to pay us in candy every month, and in exchange you get to hoist Mama's flag and benefit from the protection of the Big Mom Pirates, that was the arrangement. And I was even planning to get some sweets for myself while I was here, so now I'm mad AND hungry. We've been doing business for quite a while now, so I hate to say it, but I don't think you or anyone needs a reminder of how scary Mama can be when she gets angry" the Fishman swallows heavily, Big Mom's temper was legendary especially in the New World "So you better Pay Up! RIGHT NOW!" he bellows.
"Huh, is something important going on?"
'Straw Hat, what's he doing here?' Minister of the left thinks, tugging on his beard worryingly.
"Oh, this is the candy factory. Think we can have a grand tour" Luffy asks with a grin.
"It's Straw Hat Luffy!"
"What's he doing down here?"
"Is the banquet over?"
Luffy nods "Sure is, and let me tell you, Fishman island knows how to party, and how to eat, I don't think I could find better meat or candy if I tried. Hey Sanji, can you make better than that?"
"That boy said candy, just who is he?" Pekkoms wonders aloud, growing anger in his tone, before consulting a binder from his jacket "That's Straw Hat Luffy alright, but what's he doing here? He's a pirate ain't he?"
"Well you see…" Minister of the Left began, only to be interrupted
"Listen here punk, tell me what candy you're talking about!" Pekkoms yells, ignoring the Ministers attempt to explain the situation
'Shit!' Was the collective thought of every fishman in the area.
"Oh, look another talking animal,just like Chopper and Carue!" Luffy cheers, bouncing over to the pissed off Lion Mink "You know, it's kind of hard to take you seriously in that bright pink suit" he states bluntly
"You! I'll make you regret those words!" Pekkom growls, lifting his shades, to reveal tiny button eyes, which just makes Luffy laugh in his face
"Don't laugh at me you little…."
"Pekkoms" the lion freezes as another voice calls his name "Threatening this monsieur will bring us no closer to ze sweets Mama craves mon frere" he reminds him, with a strong accent in his voice, before sipping from the teacup he'd had sitting on his hat "The Tea Party is in 4 days, let's try avoid an unnecessary faux paus. If we have to wait here until morning, then se la'vais"
"You talk funny, what's your name weirdo?" Luffy asks with his usual bluntness, as the odd man puts his cup on his head once more.
"Bonguir mes ami pirates, Je suis Baron Tamago, I am pleased to make your acquaintance" Tamago greets them formally.
"Ok…Tamago?" Luffy repeats, one of the few things he understood from the long-leg man.
"Oui. Take care to remember my name si vous plas" he says as he stands up, towering over the Straw Hat wearing boy "Now, excuse moi monsieur, am I to believe that you devoured all the sweets in the factory little boy?" he asks politely.
"I ate all the sweets? Aw man, I was hoping for more" Luffy pouts "Yeah it was probably me and Alvida, we did eat a lot last night" he adds with a low chuckle.
"Alas the candy is no more" Tamago sighs, then lifts his arm, waving it at the Jolly Roger printed on the side of the factory "That there is the Jolly Roger of our Boss, Charlotte Linlin, also known as the Yonko, Big Mom. That symbol indicates this island is within Mama's territory decor? You see, this island belongs to Mama, and therefore Fishman island is under Big Mom's control and protection"
"That's nice, I think Jinbe was talking about that or something, I was only kind of listening" Luffy admits with a shrug.
"You are quite a naive boy, this isn't something done out of the goodness of her heart, it's a business deal. The protection is bought and paid for, by them providing her with 10 tonnes of sweets every month" Tamago explains.
"That's a lot" Luffy says blankly, Sanji and Zoro thinking 'no shit' in response to his statement.
"Oui. There is nothing Mama loves more in this world than sweets. Mama says sweets from Fishman island are the Creme de la creme don't ya know?" he laughs then turns to the Minister "Pay up tomorrow, and we can bid you adieu"
"I'm sorry, but we can't make 10 tonnes of candy in 1 night" the Catfish pleads "And even if we could, the machine was heavily damaged in the attack on the island by Hody and his men, it'll be out of commission for at least a couple weeks" he attempts to explain.
"Zat is not our problem Monsieur" Tamago scoffs
"Hey fancy pants, are you deaf or just stupid, he says he can't make it, not won't, CAN'T. Why don't you just hold your horses and wait for the machine to be fixed?" Sanji asks irritably
"Yeah, why can't your boss just come down here so he can explain it to her" Zoro suggests with a shrug "I mean she's one of the 4 Emperors after all, surely she can get off her ass and buy sweets herself"
"How rude! Mama is one of the Yonko, she commands respect"
"Right, one of the Emporers is a girl… fair enough then, my mistake" Sanji nods, neither Luffy or Zoro reacting as this was par for the course for their cook.
"Wait a minute, Zoro's right. If Big Mom had come for the sweets herself if she's a strong as you say she could have taken out Hody's entire army, stopped the factory from being destroyed, and maybe even get MORE candy as reward for saving everyone's butts, that's how I got free candy" Luffy shouts, having a flash of intelligence!
"Just out of curiosity, what happens if your boss doesn't get her candy?" Sanji asks, having come back to earth so to speak.
"Then the deal is broken. The Big Mom pirates attack en mass and you can say bon soir to zis little island, mes ami" Tamago laughs.
"You wanna destroy the island! How crazy can you get?" Luffy shouts up at the long leg frenchman, his jolly expression faded to pure rage "You can't do that over some stupid candy, I won't let you! We just saved this place from getting wrecked, you know, we can do it again!"
"Sacrebleu, I can't believe my ears, zis lettle boy's brains must be scrambled like eggs in an omelet. This is quite the coup d'etat. What to do, what to do?" Tomago hums as he takes another sip of tea.
Pura pura pura.
"Ah, zer is Mama now I presume. Pekkoms, go answer it" Tamago orders, trying to keep the fear from his voice.
"No way, she's gonna be pissed when she hears the news, I don't want that focused on me" the lion mink argues.
Pura cla-lick
"Hello, what do you want?" Luffy answers the call gruffly.
"Hmm?"
"Who is this? It's Big Mom right?" Luffy shouts down the line, ignoring Tamago and Pekkom trying to pull him away and either hang up or give the cord to them.
"That doesn't sound like Tamago, or Pekkoms. Who is this?"
"My name is Monkey D. Luffy, future King of the Pirates!" Luffy identifies himself.
"Monkey D.? Ah, you must be Garp's Grandson" BigMom muses, running the name through her mind "I remember you little man. You're the little upstart who dropped into the middle of the War 2 years ago, your family is always interfering where they're unwanted"
"There's no more candy!" Luffy shouts, proving his connection to Garp through sheer bluntness "They can't send any, and the machine's broken so they can't make any more either"
"So I heard correctly. They're supposed to have 10 TONNES and you say they have nothing!"
"Well I ate it all, it's gone now!" Luffy declares, sending the Emperor into a frenzy.
"He's didn't have to tell her that" a fishman gasps
"WHAT DID HE JUST SAY?" Tamago yells, Pekkom frozen in shock at the kid's audacity.
"Don't you lie to me you stupid child" BigMom snarls "You better not be covering for those weak little fish brats"
"I'm not lying, it was all me. I didn't know the candy was for you. I'll make you a deal, we've got a bunch of treasure right here with me and my guys, if I give it all to you, can we call it even?"
"Seriously?"
"What? I can't eat gold and diamonds,boy! Sweets are the only treasures that mean anything to me" BigMom scoffs at the teen's poor attempt at a bribe.
"Pardon, un moment. Boy, are zey really full of treasure?" Tamago asks, pointing to the large sacks on Luffy, Zoro and Sanjis' backs.
"Yep" Luffy responds bluntly.
"Give me that" the Eggman hisses, taking the coms to speak to BigMom "Mama, maybe we should reconsider zis proposal. Just last week 2 of our allied ships were destroyed by ze Kidd pirates…"
"Kid pirates? You sure you're a Yonko crew?" Luffy mutters in confusion.
"I think he means that Magnet guy we met in Sabaody 2 years ago" Sanji corrects
"...it was a disaster. We suffered a major financial setback and could certainly use a little extra funds at the moment. I know it's not your usual raison d'être, but I believe just this once, the correct course of action is to accept the treasure in place of this month's payment, you would only need to wait a couple of weeks for your supply of sweets decor. Of course the final say is yours Mama, as always"
Things looked to be going well for a second… and then it wasn't
"CAN YOU EVEN HEAR YOURSELF TOMAGO! WHAT POOR EXCUSES FOR PIRATES COMPROMISE ON WHAT THEY WANT MOST?"
"Apologies Mama, I was merely trying to do ze best for everyone in the situation. Please forgive me!" The eggman begs, getting on his knees as he does.
"Be that as it may, mamamama, this insolent pirate who ate all my sweets, intrigues me. Forget Fishman Island, now you've chosen to go against me, I'll just have to take my revenge out on you personally. Monkey D. Luffy, now I know who you are, come here to me. Let's chat in the New World"
"She means to kill him" the Catfish minister mutters fearfully.
"Sure thing, be there soon" Luffy responds without a hint of fear or hesitation "I've got something I need to settle with you too"
"Hmm?"
"I like this island, it's too risky to trust you with it. Once I get there, I'm going to kick your ass, and take Fishman Island for myself!" Lufft declares, surprising and annoying the Yonko before him.
TBC
LW: So, we end 2023 with a bang in RKMM, with Luffy starting his path to becoming an Emperor, and pissing off Linlin.
Goodbye everyone, have a lovely new year.