Sticking By Your Word
For the first time in twelve years, the island of Conomi was overflowing with human celebration and festivities. The night sky that lingered over the island was illuminated with a chorus in many colors. The villagers launched fireworks into the sky to help celebrate their freedom of the Arlong pirates, dancing and laughing underneath the sparkling scenery while the sky looked as if it were set ablaze.
Inside the village, the streets were lined with numerous men, women, and children. They danced, laughed, drank, ate, and cried. Sometimes all at once in a merry symphony. The atmosphere was filled with the joyous sound of celebration as each one danced to the jig being played so loudly in the middle of the village, that it was almost believable that the entire island could hear it.
Ryuza was seated on a wooden crate against a building and ate the bundle of food on his plate with the speed of a seasoned warrior. One might say that he eats faster than he could swing his sword. He had been hungry ever since arriving at the island. To be eating such delicious amounts of food that seemed almost endless nearly made him cry. He quickly grabbed a cup full of sweet drink and gulped it down to help him swallow the food stuck in his throat.
Of course, the drink had no alcohol in it. He made a promise to his caretaker that he would not partake in drink he fulfilled certain conditions.
Beside him, Zoro sat against the opposite wall of another building, drinking his large mug of beer with a satisfied smile. Sanji wiped his mouth, his plate picked clean, and his back against the wall with a resolute grin. Usopp, well, Ryuza lost track of him a while ago. He could have sworn he heard his voice shouting something loudly in the middle of the joyous celebration. Luffy and Yamato, who were also seated nearby, ate like ravenous animals. Their mouth's smacked as they consumed everything they could get their hands on.
"Hey! Yamato!" Luffy said, his mouth filled with food. "Are you gonna eat that watermelon?"
Yamato grasped Luffy's hand as it stretched a long distance toward her plate. "Of course I'm going to eat it, Luffy-san! Claim your own food!"
Luffy groaned and glanced at Ryuza's plate. "Hey! Ryuza! Gimmie that stick of meat!"
"You already have five of them in your hand!" Ryuza said, biting into his food.
"Zoro?"
"Don't even think about it." Zoro scowled, scooting near his plate almost protectively.
"Fine! Since no one wants to share," Luffy said, sticking more food into his mouth. "I'm going to go find some more!"
Ryuza was beginning to believe that Luffy's stomach was bottomless. He had witnessed him eat so much food during the party that he was in disbelief that the villagers had not run out. As the celebration continued, a warm wind brushed against his skin. He was shirtless, due to the villagers offering to have his samurai garb patched up and cleaned of blood after the grueling duel.
His body had been wrapped in bandages to cover up the many cuts delivered to him by Sharptooth. With a quick glance, he surveyed his own body and took pride in it. He had developed hard muscles, allowing him to appear well toned, despite the injuries. Though his master most likely would have scolded him for allowing himself to be cut too often. It was he that taught him that a samurai's body was his temple, and if he could not take care of his own body, he might as well fall upon his own sword.
"Well, I've had my fill of food." Sanji yawned, stretching his arms out.
"Huh? Where are you going Sanji-San?" Ryuza asked.
"To find me a beautiful lady of course." He said, smirking confidently. "I'm sure there's one in this big crowd that could use my company." His gaze suddenly wandered off. "Oh, and here comes one right now."
Ryuza followed his stare and saw Nojiko approaching, squeezing through the crowd of dancing villagers. She stood amongst the group, her arms crossed and a knowing smile on her face.
"Nojiko-San!" Sanji called to her, swooning. "I'm so glad that you could join us!"
"It seems like you guys are enjoying yourselves." She said in return.
"I dunno. Could use some more beer." Zoro said, yawning. "I'll worry about the headache tomorrow."
"The food has been very delicious!" Yamato exclaimed, rising to her feet and bowing her head. "Thank you so much for the hospitality, Nojiko-San!"
"Errr, no problem." Nojiko laughed, putting her hands up as she looked up at Yamato. She was probably not used to seeing an Oni in person before—especially one so tall. "You guys deserve it, you know. You've done a lot for us and this is everyone's way of repaying you."
Deep in the crowd, Ryuza had caught sight of a group of children whispering to each other. The boy in front had a bandage on his cheek, but a wide smile on his face as he seemed to be pointing at Yamato. The kids around him gasped and stared in awe. The group of kids ran toward Yamato—the boy with the bandage leading them.
"See guys? I told you I was telling the truth!" He said with a grin as he pointed at her. "I told you she was real!"
Yamato blinked in confusion. "Huh? What's all this?"
"Wow! She's very tall!" One of the children voiced in amazement.
"She has beautiful hair!" Another child said—a young girl this time who eyed Yamato's white hair with astonishment.
"Is it true that you beat up all the mean fishmen?" A child asked, tugging on Yamato's red bottoms.
"She's like a giant from the stories the adults tell!"
"She has big horns!"
The comments full of childlike wonder and imagination continued to pour. Yamato stared down at the kids—frozen, as if having no clue on what to do in this situation. Ryuza was surprised that the kids did not seem afraid of her, and instead stared at her with wondrous glee.
"Come dance with us!" A young girl said, trying to jump high enough to grab Yamato's large hand.
"Dance?!" Yamato exclaimed, her voice quivering with hesitation.
Zoro chuckled. "Never thought I'd see you be more afraid of dancing than getting into a scrap."
"Not funny Zoro-San!" Yamato yelled in indignation.
The children began to cling onto Yamato, climbing her as if she were a towering mountain. She held her arms out, her face twitching in even more disarray as she had not even the slightest clue on how to handle the children.
"They aren't going to stop until you dance with them." Nojiko giggled, watching the scene.
"Ryuza-San…" Yamato said, glancing at him with a pleading gaze.
Ryuza wasn't sure if Yamato wanted him to get rid of the children or give her advice in the matter. To be honest, he wasn't sure what to do either. Back on the island, he wasn't entirely sure on how to handle a child, much less an excited group of children.
"Maybe, you could show them that little dance you sometimes do." Ryuza said, shrugging his shoulders. "The one about Oden."
"The one about Oden?" Yamato repeated before her face lit up with glee. "Oden's legendary dance! Of course!"
Her unsure expression had been replaced with one of excited determination. Yamato had said that she herself witnessed the legendary Oden once perform a special dance in the middle of the village in the Great Land of Wano. Yamato had a desire to copy almost every aspect of Oden, which meant she would even attempt to replicate his dances.
At times, Ryuza wondered if she was simply making dances up rather than actually seeing Oden himself do the dance. One thing was for certain, he would never allow anyone to see doing such a ridiculous looking dance. Yamato let out a laugh and beckoned for the kids to follow her. They eagerly tailed her as she rushed into the crowd, most likely looking for the perfect spot to do her performance.
Nojiko smiled fondly as she watched the kids laughing joyously and then turned her gaze toward Ryuza. "How are you feeling?" She asked
"Full." Ryuza answered bluntly, patting his stomach. "Though I could probably go for another meal soon."
Nojiko shook her head with a chuckle. "I meant how do your injuries feel?" She said. "The doctor said you suffered a lot of cuts during the fight. You're lucky to not have bled out, you know."
"Oh, well despite the occasional soreness, I feel fine." Ryuza said. "Although my cheek does burn a bit."
"The doctor did say the cut of your cheek was going to be felt for a couple of days." Nojiko said with a slight frown. "And that there may be some permanent scarring."
Though Nojiko seemed concerned, Ryuza was not at all bothered about potential scarring. There was a strange sense of pride that he felt at the thought of his body having the occasional scarring from great duels he would have in his lifetime. Some legendary samurai barred their scars with pride, to display that they had experience in battle to others. He reached up and fingered the bandage stuck to the right side of his cheek. It stung—like a sharp needle pinching and prodding at his skin. The cut was first made by Hawk Eyes Mihawk and then Sharptooth. With such a deep cut worsened by battle, it was no surprise that it would leave a mark on him. And so, he simply smiled.
"Even if there is some scarring, I will bear it with pride." Ryuza said, flashing his teeth. "A true samurai would continue the fight, no matter the injury!"
"Oh brother." Sanji shook his head.
"There he goes with the samurai stuff again." Zoro yawned. "I'm beginning to wonder if he has this stuff written down somewhere."
"Huh?! Listen here you green haired swordsman! A samurai's honor is sacred, and—"
"Yeah yeah, pipe down already." Zoro interrupted with a subtle smirk.
Nojiko could not help but laugh at Ryuza's annoyed expression. Then, she looked as if she were pondering a decision. Nodding to herself, she leaned in subtly and gave the side of his cheek that barred the bandage a soft kiss. Sanji's eyes nearly left his own skull at the sight of it.
Ryuza's body froze at the gesture and it was still like a statue made of stone. The annoyance he felt while bickering with Zoro left him similar to air leaving a balloon. He stared at Nojiko with stunned eyes, his mouth agape as he suddenly felt blood rush to his cheeks. He couldn't tell why though. Was it some sort of gesture the people of the village used?
"Consider that a sign of my appreciation for saving my skin from that fishman." Nojiko said with a fond smile. She turned to walk away, waving her hand as if she had not committed such a surprising act. "Try not to move around too much! Don't want the wounds to reopen, right?"
"Hold on a moment!" Sanji exclaimed, shooting to his legs. "I have some injuries that need kisses too! Wait! Nojiko-San!"
As Sanji went to pursue her, Ryuza remained frozen. The array of feelings attacking him internally felt as if he were fighting an invisible enemy. What on earth was he feeling in his cheeks? It wasn't the stinging pain of the wound. Was he blushing? No, he doesn't blush. Why would he blush anyway? And what did Nojiko just do to his cheek? Was it a sign of affection that is well known throughout the island? He was too confused.
"Was…." Ryuza began, looking at Zoro. "Was that some sort of technique used to heal wounds?"
Zoro merely shrugged. "Maybe? I dunno. I'm gonna go get me another round." He said. "And maybe see if Yosaku or Johnny have already passed out."
Once Ryuza's disorientation had settled, he suddenly realized that he was all alone as the party continued. He rose to his feet, and decided to take a walk. It took him a while to get his feelings under control and for the heat within his cheeks to die down. The villagers danced around him as he moved through them—his sword and scabbard held over his shoulder as moved. He smiled as he heard the sounds of cups clinking together, the voluminous sound of children laughing, and the ear popping sound of fireworks.
He suddenly walked faster when he heard Yamato's terrible singing within the large crowd. "Oh, radish, ganmo! Chikuwa and eggs! One, two, three, go ahead and eat!" She bellowed while laughing. "Oden wouldn't be oden if it wasn't—"
Ryuza made sure to walk far enough to where he could no longer hear her singing. If he had stuck around, she most likely would have dragged him into the celebration to dance with her. As long as he lived, he would never perform such a ridiculous dance. It was still hard to imagine such a legendary samurai like Oden performing such movements.
Eventually he found his way to a cliff edge and seated himself. The island forests looked particularly beautiful when illuminated by the moonlight. The fresh breeze from the sea brushed his black hair back, and he took a deep breath. Once again, he found himself smiling. It feels like both he and Yamato had come a long way since being stranded at the restaurant. So many unexpected things had revealed themselves since that moment. And some of those things even left some lasting scars. And yet, it was these things that made the journey more memorable. These were only the first few battles that were yet to come, and Ryuza found himself excited at the thought.
His mind then drifted to the memory of the moment he was incapacitated in his fight against Arlong. When that piranha fishman's attack had left him motionless and likely unconscious, those voices spoke to him. Who were they? Where did they come from? And why did it feel as though he could hear his master speaking to him? Was it simply a trick of his mind? The power he felt after he regained consciousness was unlike anything he had ever experienced. It was as if his sword were alive and was attuned to his movements. Like he could cut the sea in half with one stroke of his blade.
Still, there were so many unanswered questions on his mind. What were those voices, and what was the Kokuryū no Ikari? Was that the name of the sword he carried? His master had never told him its name, only that he needed to protect it with his life. And why did those voices also mention the land of Wano? What were they trying to tell him?
"Shouldn't you be enjoying the celebration?"
Ryuza turned his head to see Nami behind him walking over to him. She had been wearing a dark blue t-shirt and darker shorts. She had a soft smile, probably the most peaceful and genuine one that Ryuza had seen since he had met her. He also noticed her arm. The tattoo of the Arlong pirates was no longer there/ Instead, it was a scar and Ryuza guessed it had come as a result of removing the mark from her body.
"I am enjoying the celebration." Ryuza said, turning his gaze back toward the ocean. "Just from this distance."
"That's an odd way to enjoy a party." Nami said. She then smirked mischievously. "Or is this a samurai thing?"
"Hardly. A true samurai would enjoy the festivities no matter where—" Ryuza paused when he saw the grin on her face. He suddenly felt ridiculous. "You're making fun of me, aren't you?"
"Just a little."
Ryuza scowled and turned away from her—his nose pointed at the air as if he were making a point of ignoring her. How dare she mock his samurai ways? It was true that many would find such habits to be odd, but in the land of Wano, the people were accustomed to samurai acting in such ways. At least, that's what his master had told him.
Regardless, Nami must have caught onto his act of shunning her. The grin on her face grew as she walked over and slapped the back of his head with her hand.
"Ow!" Ryuza howled, grasping the back of his head. "What was that for?!"
"That was for calling me a witch." Nami snickered. She sat down next to him, her legs dangling off the cliff edge.
"But you are one…" Ryuza mumbled, rubbing the spot where he had been struck.
She hit him once more.
"Would you stop that!?" Ryuza yelled, glaring at her as he clenched his head with both hands now.
"You keep it up with the name and I'll target your cheek next time!"
"You deserve to be called that! Need I remind you that you stole me and Yamato's money?" Ryuza exclaimed. "You tried to leave us stranded at the Baratie! We only got lucky in managing to track you down!"
"I know." Nami said. She turned her gaze toward green forests just below the cliff edge. That genuine smile was still on her face. "And I'm glad you guys did."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"I mean I'm glad that you, Yamato, Luffy, and the others managed to find me to get your stuff back." She answered. "If you guys hadn't showed up, then everyone in the village would've died trying to fight Arlong."
Ryuza kept his glare trained on her. "Well, maybe next time a simple request would suffice rather than taking our things and forcing us to come here."
"Yeah," she laughed, hugging her knees to her chest. "Maybe asking would have been much easier on you all."
You think? Ryuza thought to himself.
There was a quiet silence for a while as the two looked up at the bright moon that peered over the horizon of the sea.
"I guess I should thank you too." Ryuza said as he still looked out.
"For what?" Nami said, bewildered by his words.
"Making us come all the way out here. It was fun," Ryuza said, struggling to make sense of it all. "In a perilous sort of way. I've always dreamed of saving the innocent from evil scum and have people see me as a true samurai. And for the first time, I genuinely got to live in the moment. So thanks, I guess."
Nami stared at him then grinned. "Wait, are you blushing?"
"As if you, orange haired witch!" Ryuza shouted and shook his fists. "I'm just saying thank you!"
The moon in the night sky seemed to have brightened significantly. Ryuza could not fully tell if it was because of this that Nami's orange hair seemingly gleamed as the wind brushed against it. Then again, it could have been as a result of her mood. The young samurai could not care less, as his mind shifted on something else.
"By the way, I still want one." Ryuza said whilst he crossed his arms
"Huh?" Nami turned to look at him with curious eyes. "Want one of what?"
"A tangerine. You promised that you'd give me one once the fight was over."
"I never promised that."
"Regardless!" Ryuza said stubbornly. "I want to taste one!"
The unusual request would have taken anyone else by surprise, but Nami seemed to take joy in his request and her face beamed fondly. She nodded her head, told him to wait at the cliff edge while she wandered off. And Ryuza waited, continuing to take in the sight. Within a few moments, she returned something in her hand. Whatever it was, it was wrapped carefully inside of a napkin.
"Here." Nami said, unwrapping the napkin and revealing a bright orange tangerine. "This one is from the grove. Luckily those idiot marines didn't damage all of them."
Ryuza stared at the tangerine curiously. He had never tasted one back home. Apples, grapes, bananas, and many other strange fruits, but never a tangerine. He grasped it and slowly raised it to his mouth. Nami eyed him, not saying a word—most likely wondering what his opinion of it would be. He bit into it, and felt the liquid pour into his mouth, lapping his tongue. Sweet, with a hint of acidic sourness. He took another bite, and then another, and then another. He chewed with effort, his eyes trained on the ocean ahead as if eating the fruit itself was a challenge.
"Hm…." Ryuza hummed and looked at the tangerine. "This is good."
Nami paused at that and then laughed. "You're damn right it is." That mischievous grin returned to her face. "By the way, it probably would taste a lot better if you peeled it first before biting into it."
"What?! Why didn't you tell me that before I ate it?!"
Her grin grew even wider. "You didn't ask."
※
"I still don't feel comfortable keeping this thing around the village." Genzo said, eyeing the large creature as it stared back with its wide eyes.
The following day after the party, it was time to depart the island. Ryuza and Yamato both had a desire to stay around a bit longer, but each knew that there was more adventure to be had. If they were to become stronger so that they could both go to the Grand Line and then the Land of Wano, they had to grow stronger. And they could not do so by staying on a single island.
However, before they departed, the large cow-like creature—Momoo, had returned, swimming near the docks of the island. Ryuza had managed to convince Genzo to allow the creature to stay on the island, claiming that it would protect them from any further enemies. And that it could even protect them from any more marines that would try to return and cause trouble. As long as they continued to feed him of course.
"I'm certain that he won't harm anyone." Ryuza said, patting Momoo on the snout with a smile. "Such a majestic and strong creature should keep the entire village safe from any other invading pirates or villains."
"And what happens when he gets too hungry and decides to eat one of the villagers!?" Genzo exclaimed. "If that happens, then I am holding you personally responsible!"
While his objections made sense, Ryuza had a feeling that Momoo would not do that. Even though he didn't know the creature very long, he remembered Momoo refused to attack him and his allies despite Arlong threatening to kill him. If the creature was capable of that, then just maybe it was also capable of being the village's protector.
"Momoo would never do that." Ryuza said determinedly. "I believe this creature has a great sense of right and wrong. It will take up an honorable duty and protect you guys. Isn't that right?"
Momoo nodded its head rapidly, letting out a guttural mooing sound as it did. The creature seemed to be happy taking on its new role.
"Yeah well we'll see how all that honor stuff lasts." Genzo said, adjusting his cap. "Just don't get any funny ideas you big oaf. If I see you making funny eyes at any of the villagers, then you're out of here!"
Once Momoo was guaranteed safety near the shores of the island, Ryuza realized that there was nothing else for him to do. He was no longer forced to remain on the island. It had been some time since he and Yamato were on the seas together. And now they could finally return to their journey.
Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, and Usopp came to the same conclusion as they prepared their ship for departure. Then again, it would have been correct to say that only three out of the four worked to leave the island. Luffy on the other hand, was locked in a deep slumber. Most likely from all the food he had eaten the previous day. No matter how much Sanji tried to kick him awake, Luffy continued to snore.
Yosaku and Johnny had taken an earlier departure, claiming that they too had a goal waiting for them out on the sea. Ryuza bid them farewell, and the best of luck on their venture. Yamato gave them bone crushing hugs, wishing them the same. As much as the two would deny it, it was obvious that they were crying before taking their leave.
The villagers were also kind enough in providing maintenance and cleaning to Ryuza and Yamato's small vessel. The sails had been patched up, and the wooden bow repaired of all damages. Taking their kindness even further—the villagers also packed a large back of food and supplies that the two would have needed while on their journey. Ryuza was stunned by their kindness—bowing his head in thanks to their hospitality, claiming that he would one day repay them. The villagers merely laughed at the statement—claiming that they themselves were repaying their debt to him and Yamato for helping to save their village.
The most difficult part came afterwards. It was hard for both Ryuza and Yamato to bid farewell to the Straw Hat crew—which is what they apparently decided to call themselves. Sanji seemed to take it the hardest as he cried, practically clinging onto Yamato. She was crying too, crushing both he and Usopp in tight hugs.
Ryuza found himself shaking Zoro's hand—making a vow with him.
"If we ever meet again on the Grand Line, I expect you to be ready for our rematch." Zoro said, his mouth split in a grin.
"I have no issues with that." Ryuza said, returning the smile. "But be prepared to lose, if we ever do resume our duel."
"Yamato-Chan! I'm going to miss you!" Sanji cried, his tears flowing down his eyes like a rapid waterfall.
"Do not cry Sanji-San! Save your tears for more important things!" Yamato exclaimed, crying just as much. "I will miss you guys! I am proud to call you all friends! I hope we meet again!"
"Can't…breathe…" Usopp said, managing to his neck just enough to speak from Yamato's tight grip. "I'm gonna miss you guys too! It's been fun!"
Ryuza smiled, and glanced over at Luffy who was still sound asleep. "Is he going to wake up anytime soon?" He asked.
"My guess? Probably not." Zoro said, shrugging his shoulders. "We've tried kicking him awake but he ain't budging. So we'll just have to wait before we set sail."
"What about Nami-San?" Yamato asked. "Is she not joining you guys?"
"I actually haven't seen Nami all day today." Usopp said. "Who knows what she's doing. My guess is she'll probably be staying here in her village."
"Losing both Nami-swan and Yamato-chan all in one day," Sanji cried out. "Why must the world be so cruel!?"
It only took a few minutes for the two young warriors to climb into their boat, and prepare for departure. Luckily this time, the villagers had pointed them in the correct direction of the Grand Line—or rather the next town where they'd be able to find better directions to their destination. Ryuza hoped that he and Yamato would not run out of food before then.
The small white sails began fluttering in the wind, and the boat began to shift away from the wooden docks. The villagers—Genzo and Nojiko among them, waved at the two from the docks of the island, calling out to them with wishes of luck, and to stay safe. Some of the kids Yamato danced with cried as they waved to her—yelling something about Oden and radishes.
Ryuza and Yamato waved back at them, both of their arms outstretched as they bid farewell and the boat drifted further and further away. Ryuza decided not to cry, as it would have been a shameful display on his confident samurai appearance. Yamato on the other hand, allowed her tears to flow as she screamed and howled goodbyes, her arms waving rapidly.
Once they had gotten far enough—to where they could no longer hear the voices, they each sat down, opposite of each other on the wooden seating of the boat. There was a moment of silence between them.
Ryuza recalled the day he and Yamato had left their home island. The yells and shouts of good luck and farewells from the villagers as they drifted out to sea. It was so similar, and yet so different. When they had left their home, they left as inexperienced adventurers. Now, they were leaving an island as heroes, praised by people for rescuing them.
It was just like Ryuza's dreams. He felt elated, and judging by the smile on Yamato's face, she most likely felt the same.
"You could have stayed with them, you know." Ryuza said, breaking the silence. "I wouldn't have objected if you did."
"That again?" Yamato asked. She crossed her arms and puffed her cheeks in annoyance. "I'm beginning to think you're trying to get rid of me at this point."
"No it's not that. It's just, I know how much you wanted to live just like Oden. You told me from his journal that he set out to sea, right? And he also helped Gold Rodger become the pirate king, just like Luffy-San is trying to do."
The conversation dried out as Yamato crossed her arms, her cheeks puffed even more as they turned red.
"What?" Ryuza asked, wondering why she had just an irritated look. "What did I say?"
"You are starting to annoy me, you know?" Yamato said. "Don't you think I want to set sail with them? I do want that! More than anything in the world! It would be a dream come true! To sail with a pirate crew just like Oden did in his stories!"
"But….?"
"But," Yamato sighed. "I also know that I have bigger responsibilities. I promised Akio-sama that I'd protect you. That I'd stay by your side as we reach the Land of Wano together."
Ryuza grimaced at the mention of his beloved master.
"Yeah, we both made a promise to him." Ryuza said. He then looked back up at her. "Still, I don't want to feel as if I'm holding you back."
"You aren't holding me back, Ryuza-Kun." Yamato smiled widely. "Haven't you noticed that we are growing even stronger ever since we left home? I can feel it! If we keep going like this, together, we'll be able to one day free the land of Wano and open the borders!" She shot to her feet and caused the boat to teeter. "So no more doubting, okay?! We're in this together! Until we reach the end of the seas!"
Ryuza was bewildered as Yamato was suddenly fired up. What was even more perplexing was that she called him 'Ryuza-kun' when it had always been 'Ryuza-san'. He could not truly point what she was thinking, but it seemed that she fully placed her trust and her future into his hands. The grin on her face brought him comfort and filled him with the determination to see their grand adventure through. He rose to his feet to meet her gaze, or rather did his best to do so as her tall stature prevented him from meeting her height.
"Agreed!" Ryuza said. "Soon the entire sea will recognize me as the Sword God! Starting at the next town we get to! Who knows what we'll find there!"
"More opportunities for adventure I hope!" Yamato laughed.
Suddenly, her laughter froze, and her eyes turned wide. Something over the horizon had caught her eye. It was large—much larger than their small boat. And it was slowly coming toward them.
"Ryuza-San!"
Ryuza turned his head, and saw the object moving toward them. "What the—...Is that a ship?" His hand shifted toward his sword sitting in front of him. "I think it's coming right at us."
"Could it be more pirates?" Yamato asked as she reached for her mace.
"I don't know. They could be after our supplies. Whoever it is, be ready for a fight. We cannot allow our stuff to get taken again."
The two waited with weapons drawn as the ship drew closer. Ryuza was prepared to defend them both from whatever was on approach. However, his worries quickly subsided when he caught a glimpse at the ship's flag that waved against the wind The jolly roger stitched into the black flag was a skull with bones. And on top of that skull was the familiar straw hat.
"Hey! Guys!"
Luffy's voice echoed across the ocean as the ship drew closer.
"Is that….?" Yamato lowered her mace and smiled. "It's Luffy!"
"Did they follow us?" Ryuza asked, wondering what they were doing. While they did both have similar destinations, he didn't expect them to meet again so soon.
"Hey! Luffy-san! Zoro-San!" Yamato called out to them whilst she waved her arms.
The Straw Hat ship slowly came to a stop just to the right of the small boat.I t's shadow loomed over Ryuza and Yamato's vessel. Ryuza twitched as insecurity began to seep in at the sight of their ship being compared to the small boat that he sat in. Over the railing of the ship, Nami peaked her head over.
"Glad we caught up to you guys in time!" She said with a wry grin. "You guys move pretty fast for a boat that size!"
"Nami-San?" Ryuza questioned. "What are—"
His question was interrupted upon hearing the sound of Luffy's snickering. Alongside Nami, Luffy peaked his head over the railing—a larger than life grin on his face. Beside him was Usopp who laughed, and next to him, Sanji and Zoro, both with amused expressions on their faces.
"I forgot this was how small your boat was." Zoro said, leaning against the ship's barrier. "You guys really planning on taking this thing into the grand line?"
"Of course we are!" Ryuza said pridefully. "We'll get to the Grand Line no matter what ship we have to ride on!"
"At least he's confident." Sanji chuckled, shaking his head.
"What are you guys doing here?" Yamato asked. She then pointed a finger accusingly at Luffy. "Luffy-San! You were asleep when we left! You didn't even give us a proper farewell!"
"And you," Ryuza added, gesturing his finger toward Nami. "I thought you were staying in your village! What are you doing with them?! How did you guys even catch up to us so fast!?"
"Probably because our ship is ten times bigger and faster!" Usopp laughed and rubbed the back of his own head. "Sorry, but your small boat doesn't go very fast and probably won't last long on the Grand Line."
Nami smirked at Ryuza's irritated expression. "Plus, with me as their navigator, it was easy to catch up to you guys without being sidetracked."
"That still doesn't explain why you are all here." Ryuza said, his expression suddenly growing weary. "Wait, did something happen back on the island?"
"Hehehe," Luffy snickered, a devilish grin on his face. "We're here because you tried to run out on our deal, samurai guy!"
"Deal?" Yamato asked, tilting her head.
"What deal?" Ryuza repeated, just as confused.
"We made a deal saying that you'd owe me a favor if I was the one who sent Arlong flying!" Luffy said, pointing to himself with a grin. "Remember? We both wanted to give that long nose jerk a beating, but I was the one who managed to send that jerk packing!"
Ryuza suddenly turned red in the face. "I…you…that was only because that Piranha fishman slowed me down!" He protested. "I would have dealt with Arlong myself if I wasn't so damaged!"
"No being a sore loser! I won the bet fair and square!" Luffy laughed. "I beat Arlong, so now, you owe me a favor!"
Ryuza opened his mouth to protest, but no words escaped from him. He now remembered the deal he made with Luffy before they had gone into battle. To go back on his word would bring shame upon his honor as a samurai. As much as he wanted to back out of it, he could not do so so easily. And so, he simply listened in conceit.
"Very well…" Ryuza said, narrowing his eyes. "What is this favor that I owe you?"
Luffy's devilish grin grew even further and he leaned over the ship's railing to the point where he looked as if he were about to fall.
"I want you and Yamato to join my crew!"
It was at that moment that it felt like time had frozen over. As if the sea had suddenly paused it's movement;The distant seagulls overhead stopped in place as if they themselves were stunned, and the wind even coming to an unanticipated halt. Ryuza and Yamato stared up at Luffy, both of their mouths dropping with astounded expressions.
And finally, the two both shouted loud enough in unison that their own boat trembled. "What?!"
"You want us to join your crew?!" Yamato asked, her voice quivering.
"Yeah! It feels like we've been working together for a while now!" Luffy said, grinning more joyfully now. "Plus, you guys have been really helping us out! And since we're all heading to the Grand Line anyway, we might as well all go together!"
Yamato's face split into a wide grin—stars practically glowing in her eyes. Loud giggles left her, her body trembling with ecstasy. She locked her hands together and turned toward Ryuza who was still stunned.
Join your crew? Ryuza repeated in his mind.
Joining a pirate crew? That was the last thing Ryuza had expected to do while journeying out to sea. He expected to run into pirate crews to defeat them or to stop them from harming the innocent. He had never predicted that he would be asked to join one. How could he align himself with pirates as a samurai? The two fit together as much as snails would fit with salt water.
The idea was bizarre.
But before Ryuza could openly deny the 'favor' he suddenly recalled his time with each of these so-called pirates. First at the Baratie, he had fought alongside them against other pirates to defend the restaurant. Sanji had saved him from being skewered in the fight, and Luffy had managed to defeat Don Krieg himself. Then at Cocoyashi village—defeating Arlong and saving the village despite Nami yelling at them to leave.
Their actions, despite being pirates, were honorable in a sense. Ryuza began to recall the stories Yamato told him from Oden's journal. He himself joined two pirate crews. And while they got themselves involved in expected mischief, Oden himself stated how the crews he aligned himself with were honorable in a sense—strangely clinging to a code that separated them from the villainous pirate crews that many feared.
Was this Straw Hat crew the same? It seemed so late to ask that now after fighting alongside them. And even if he didn't want to join them, his samurai honor would not allow him to so easily disregard the favor. Whether he liked it or not, he owed Luffy a debt. And a debt must be repaid, as it was the way of a true swordsman. That was the philosophy that the great Sword God Ryuma possessed, according to Ryuza's beloved master.
"Oi, why's it taking you so long to decide?" Zoro said, smirking at Ryuza. "I thought you said samurai had honor. Wouldn't be much honor in going back on a deal, right?"
"And you do love to go on and on about your samurai honor a lot." Nami added. She grinned and it felt like Ryuza was frozen by her stare.. "I hear people that break promises so easily are quite low! Lower than a witch even! Pure scum!"
"Guys like that practically belong in the trash." Sanji said, taking a draw from his cigarette—a knowing smile on his face.
"Trash that should sink to the bottom of the sea!" Usopp said, grinning and waving a hand in front of his face as if he picked up on a repugnant scent.
Each word they spoke were like heavy stones being dropped onto Ryuza's shoulders for him to carry. Pure scum?! Trash? Bottom of the sea?!
He could not tell if they were serious or simply egging him to concede. Regardless, they were using his own words and own code against him. His bottom lip began to quiver. He gripped the front of his white samurai robe and tugged on it aggressively. He was not lower than a witch, and he certainly wasn't scum. Yamato was staring at him with eyes that were practically pleading. They were all staring at him. He suddenly felt as if the weight of the world were on his shoulders.
He turned away from them and mumbled to himself as if he were some crazed maniac. Yamato peered over his shoulder to see what he was saying to himself, but not even she could understand it. It was then Ryuza turned back to the ship and pointed at the five 'fiends'/
"Fine then, we will join your crew in order to repay my debt!" He bellowed, then started up at five pirates with determination. "But hear me now, I will never be scum, trash, or at the bottom of the ocean! Do you hear me?! I will become the next Sword God! Mark my words!"
It was then that Yamato let out a joyful shout, leaping high into the air. Once she landed, the boat nearly toppled over due to her weight, but Ryuza kept his balance, and his eyes locked onto the Straw Hat crew—more specifically, Luffy himself. Twice now it was him that prevented Ryuza from claiming the glory of defeating two powerful pirate captains. In his eyes, Luffy was a fierce obstacle that he needed to overcome.
"I don't care how long it takes me to repay my debt! And I don't care how many enemies try to stand in my way!" He screamed. "I will reach the Land of Wano, and the entire sea will recognize me as the Sword God! I swear upon it!"
Despite his loud yelling, the five pirates all seemed satisfied. Zoro and Sanji smirked, Ussop laughed, Nami was gleeful and Luffy had the biggest smile of them all. He laughed loudly and outstretched both of his hands. Each one stretched a long distance down from the deck of the ship and toward the small boat below and came to a halt in front of both Ryuza and Yamato for them to grasp.
Both of them took hold and And then, Ryuza screamed as Luffy retracted his long limb—pulling him up toward the ship along with Yamato. Yamato laughed in jubilant delight as she avoided crashing into the ship's railing. The wind smacked into Ryuza's face as he was forcefully pulled into what seemed to be a new adventure entirely.
But he would welcome it. No matter what challenges it would bring.
Author's Note: So first I would like to formally apologize to my readers and those that have been looking forward in the continuation of this story. I have been very preoccupied with college courses, as well as something else. I have begun working on my very own Fantasy Novel and found myself struggling to continue multiple stories at once. However, after some encouragement and a three hour discussion with a friend of mine at the University, I have decided to dedicate each week to writing by working on a different story. This week was dedicated working on this fic, while next week will be dedicated working on my fantasy novel and the week after I will be working on another fantasy story I have been working on. Regardless, I hope that I will continue on with this story and will use it as much needed practice. You can expect my writing style to be noticeably different when the next chapter is published. Thank you for tuning in!
P.S. Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments of the story so far. Any questions and theories that you have in mind? Anything that you hope to see in the future? Also I will admit I did get a good laugh at one of the comments expressing their annoyance with the character Ryuza as he does not stop talking about samurai honor. I liked this comment because it pointed out a character flaw that I purposely wrote for this character, so it is good to see other people occasionally annoyed with him as that was my intention.
But. please feel free to leave a review or like if you wish!