The group of heroes found themselves unable to rest outside the palace's main entrance. Their minds weighed down with anxiety over the outcome of the Reverie. In stark contrast, the pirates remained indifferent, perching on higher ground as they surveyed their surroundings, already choosing their next destination.
"This is boring. Why should we wait for them?" the ever-restless captain grumbled.
"Straw Hat, don't forget you are responsible for us," Aizawa reminded him, recalling the decision made by the royal court.
"I never agreed to thaaat~" Luffy whined, melting dramatically onto the ground, only to be prodded with a piece of coral by Hagakure, who seemed amused by his elastic skin.
"Do you think things will turn out all right?" Jiro asked her classmates.
"They should. All Might stepped in to defend us," Todoroki responded with quiet confidence.
"You place great faith in your teacher," Jinbei noted with admiration.
The students, united in their admiration, erupted into cheers for the Symbol of Peace, their excitement was so overwhelming that it was impossible to overlook.
"I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THAT TRAITOR TURNED HER BACK ON US!" Present Mic exclaimed in frustration, throwing his hands into the air in exasperation.
"She spoke the truth," Sanji interjected calmly.
"Being aware of what's happening on the surface with their races... wouldn't you do the same?" Nami questioned the blond, who found himself at a loss for words, simply putting an end to his tantrum.
"The truth is... we had the chance to say something. And we didn't," Yamada admitted quieter.
"None of us did," Nerumi added, completing his thought.
The students turned toward Aizawa, who stood in silent contemplation, heavy with disappointment.
"You are my responsibility above all else. If speaking the full truth had endangered your lives... I could never forgive myself."
"Aizawa-sensei..."
"Senpai..."
"It will be fine," Eraserhead reassured them. "Yue is only advocating for those Minks and Fishmen who have gone unheard for generations. Besides, All Might is part of the council now. As long as the numbers remain even, any decision will be split fifty-fifty."
"That is... as long as Poseidon, Lagertha, and Odder continue to support us."
"Hakim-sama is the uncertain one... He seems interested, but still wary of us."
"We were too quick to suggest integrating them into society without fully considering the consequences..." Deku murmured, now his mind clearer.
"If we genuinely want to support them, we must first ensure that our own society is ready to welcome them."
"There must be a way to make integration possible," Kaminari suggested, though he had no concrete plan.
The group fell into thoughtful silence.
"Don't just sit around waiting for a miracle to happen," Sanji advised, exhaling a slow ring of smoke as he approached them.
"Sanji-san?"
"Miracles come only to those who have the determination to keep pushing forward."
With no immediate solutions at hand, Aizawa took it upon himself to outline their next course of action.
"Pay close attention. If we truly want to take part and create change, our first priority is gathering information. We must uncover how our government functions, who is behind the eradication of different races from history, and their motives."
"As soon as we find a lead, we can start taking action."
"WAAAAAAAAAH! YOU GUYS ARE INCREDIBLE! YOU'RE STRIVING TO CREATE CHANGE IN A JUST AND THOUGHTFUL WAYAAAAAAH!"
"Franky-san, it's okay, you can stop crying now," Momo consoled, patting the cyborg's metallic arm.
"WAAAAAAAAAH, I'M NOT CRYIIIING!"
"You're such good people... GARCHU!" The teary-eyed panther Mink rubbed his damp cheeks against the young heroes in gratitude. "I wonder... Could you be the ones we've been waiting for?"
"Heh... We won't know unless we try," Midoriya replied with a determined smile.
"Are you aware that by getting involved in this, you'd be considered outlaws?" Zoro said flatly, causing the group to tense up.
Midoriya shook his head, dismissing the thought.
"W-we can use our connections with the authorities and the influence of our mentors to gather the information we need."
"As long as we remain unnoticed, there won't be any suspicion."
"That's an advantage we hold," Todoroki added.
"Infiltrators... I like it."
"That sounded a little too villainous, Franky-san..." Momo remarked uneasily.
As the discussion carried on, Robin remained silent, attentively absorbing every word without voicing her thoughts.
Meanwhile, Tsuyu quietly stepped away from the group, tapping her lip in thought before posing an unusual question.
"Chopper-san... what is the underworld like? Ribbit."
Her words piqued everyone's curiosity, drawing them toward the reindeer, instinctively forming a half-circle—anticipating a tale as if it were a legend waiting to be told.
"It's like another world... Everything sparkles and floats!" Chopper exclaimed excitedly, bouncing in place with joy.
"We were completely upside down!" Usopp continued; his exaggerated storytelling made the tale sound almost unbelievable.
"And we were swimming through the air!"
"There was this massive, indestructible being with hundreds of heads and arms!"
"You could even see your whole life flash before your eyes! Literally!"
"And then we died...
"YOU DIED?!"
"and went straight to hell..." Usopp concluded with a dramatic flourish, crossing his arms smugly.
The heroes stiffened at that last part.
"HELL?!"
Luffy, who had been lounging on the ground, perked up at the story and immediately joined in.
"That sounds awesome! Shishishi!" He grinned. "I wanna go back... It's boring here," he complained, flailing his arms in childish frustration.
"We can't without Bakanee."
Luffy's pout deepened at the condition.
"While these idiots were having fun in hell... we were fighting for our lives," Bakugo grumbled.
"That sounds really bizzare, Kacchan..." Midoriya muttered.
"If you had shown a bit more kindness, perhaps things wouldn't have escalated," Brook remarked, casting a glance at the irritable blond.
"It wasn't about kindness... They turned against us just for living on the surface," Mineta defended.
"I wonder what happened to make them react that way?" Sanji mused, flicking the ash from his cigarette.
"The kings seem like decent people."
"Except the piranha..." Luffy huffed.
"We shouldn't be discussing this... But it traces back to an issue from the past."
"And they have every right to distrust us," Nerumi added, supporting Yamada's words.
"Hahaha! You guys really ended up pissing off an entire kingdom. What a bunch of idiots!" Luffy cackled at their predicament.
"Well... We kind of accidentally angered Hades," Usopp admitted.
"WHAT THE—?!"
"Y-you met Hades?!" Tokoyami barely managed to stammer, before promptly passing out, as Dark Shadow desperately tried to shake him awake.
"AH! TOKOYAMI-SAN! QUICK, FETCH SOME ALCOHOL!" Iida commanded, frantically fanning him with robotic precision.
"Dr. Chopper!"
"ON IT!" the reindeer responded, digging into his whale-shaped backpack and pulling out a small bottle of alcohol to revive him.
"Well... About Hades..." Usopp began. "We got in it"
"You were inside it?!" They al yelled
"That's disgusting!" Toru said with disgust.
"NOT LIKE THAT!"
"Did He eat you?"
"Fufufu, it's not what you're thinking," Robin chuckled, amused by the students' frantic attempts to make sense of it all.
"Ah, Robin-san!"
"It's not a person, but a whole," she explained.
"Sounds like some kind of god," Iida remarked, intrigued.
"Well, in Greek mythology, Hades is a god," Tokoyami, who had just regained consciousness, pointed out.
"But wasn't it more of a concept?" Todoroki joined in.
Robin placed a thoughtful hand to her chin. "I must admit, I hadn't considered it that way..."
"An omnipotent being?" Uraraka mused.
"Something above all things?" Sato added, watching as Robin gathered her thoughts.
"A fundamental law that dictates the very essence of existence and the cosmos itself... the convergence of all that has been, all that is, and all that is yet to come."
"Like life itself," Yaoyorozu concluded.
"Precisely," Robin affirmed. "It exists within us, just as we exist within it—woven into the fabric of existence before our birth, in this fleeting moment, and long after we are gone."
"That's... complicated," Uraraka muttered, her eyes spinning in confusion.
The conversation between the two groups had spiraled into existential musings, leaving the young heroes more bewildered than enlightened.
Time drifted by, and impatience settled over them. The students lay sprawled on the ground, awaiting the return of their missing companions, while Terkchak paced anxiously outside the main entrance.
Then, without warning, a strange tremor rippled through the ground. What started as a faint vibration quickly swelled into powerful quakes emanating from deep within the palace.
A surge of energy—chaotic, excited, and utterly overwhelming—rushed toward them. Within that maelstrom, voices rang out brimming with exhilaration.
The palace doors burst open, and suddenly, a stampede of royal attendants flooded out into the city, abandoning the halls of the Reverie.
The Lemurians moved like an unstoppable wave, sweeping up the confused humans in their path. Before they could react, the heroes found themselves carried away in an entirely different part of the plaza.
Dazed and disoriented, Nami sat up with her hair in a tangled mess.
"What just happened?" she asked, baffled.
"Why did they leave in such a hurry?" Nerumi echoed concerned.
Despite the sheer force of their movement, the expressions of the crowd had not conveyed fea, only boundless excitement. Their grins stretched wide as they scattered across Mu, vanishing into different districts with a fervor that only deepened the humans' confusion.
"Is this... normal, Terk-san?" Brook inquired as his hollow eyes followed the dispersing masses.
Terkchak, still catching his breath, shook his head. "No... It's been a long time since our last Reverie... but it has never ended like this before."
More hurried footsteps approached from nearby. Following the trail of the departing Lemurians, the white-haired woman appeared with her pace unrelenting. Without hesitation, she grabbed Terkchak's hand, pulling him along as she wove through the humans.
"You too?" Terkchak asked astonished as he was dragged away.
"HEY! WHAT HAPPENED?! WHERE ARE YOU GOING?!" the U.A. students and teachers called after them.
"There's no time! ba-bye!" the woman answered cheerfully, vanishing into the city with Terkchak in tow.
"She blew it! She definitely blew it!" the students chorused in a panic.
"Should we run?" Koda asked hesitantly.
"And hide where, genius?" Mineta shot back.
"Don't be rude, Mineta, Ribbit."
"What about All Might?" Midoriya's concern was evident in his voice.
Soft, deliberate footsteps echoed nearby. Unlike the frantic pace of the others, these were calm and measured.
They turned to see All Might approaching. Unlike the chaos surrounding them, he was completely at ease.
"WHAT ARE YOU ALL DOING ON THE GROUND?"
"All Might!" The students nearly lunged toward him in relief but stopped just short, mindful of his fragile condition.
"What happened?" Aizawa demanded, already pulling himself to his feet.
"That old witch ruined everything, didn't she?"
"Don't call the lady that, seaweed head!"
"But she is old," the pirates muttered, earning an exasperated sigh from the former hero, who pressed a finger onto his lips, signaling for silence.
"Are we in trouble?" Momo hesitated towards her teacher's relaxed demeanor.
"HAHAHA, NO, NO. EVERYTHING WENT WELL!" All Might's booming laughter confused the heroes while visibly relieving the pirates.
"MISS YUE RAISED VALID CONCERNS THAT HELPED US REACH A RESOLUTION."
"Misinterpretation again?" Franky and Jinbei exchanged skeptical glances, beads of sweat forming at their temples.
"THAT WASN'T A MISINTERPRETATION! HE DELIBERATELY TURNED HIS BACK ON US!" Denki protested with his arms rigid with frustration.
"ALTHOUGH HER INTERPRETATION WAS A LITTLE... UNORTHODOX, SHE WAS RIGHT ABOUT ONE THING. IF WE TRULY WANT THEIR TRUST AND SUPPORT, WE CAN'T HIDE ANYTHING. THE SITUATION—THE WHOLE TRUTH, BOTH GOOD AND BAD, MUST BE LAID BARE. THAT'S THE ONLY WAY TO MOVE FORWARD."
"YOU SHOULD HAVE SHARED CAPTAIN MÄKELÄ AND MR. TUNA'S PERSPECTIVES EARLIER, EVEN IF IT SEEMED COUNTERPRODUCTIVE. FOR NOW, WE'VE WON BACK THEIR TRUST, BUT YOU'LL NO LONGER BE RECOGNIZED AS REPRESENTATIVES OF THE OUTSIDE WORLD."
The weight of his words sank in.
"Did we ruin everything?"
"NO. YOU JUST DIDN'T THINK THROUGH ALL THE CONSEQUENCES. BUT THAT'S ALRIGHT. EVEN FOR ME, THIS WAS UNKNOWN TERRITORY—I'VE NEVER HAD TO NEGOTIATE WITH ROYALTY BEFORE."
A thoughtful silence fell over the UA students. None of them were particularly qualified to deal with royalty... And managing an entire continent? That was way beyond their expertise.
What did they decide?" Aizawa finally asked.
"WE CAN'T CHANGE THE PAST... BUT WE CAN CHOOSE TO BEGIN ANEW..."
"AS AN OFFICIAL ALLIANCE WITH THE KINGDOMS..." The announcement brought a spark of realization to the young heroes' faces. "TO COMMEMORATE THIS ALLIANCE, THEY WILL SHARE THEIR CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS WITH US THROUGH A CELEBRATION TONIGHT; ALL OTHER ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED TO PRIORITIZE ITS ARRANGEMENTS IMMEDIATELY."
"A FESTIVAL?!"
"PARTY?!"
The Straw Hats' reaction was instantaneous. Tongues out, eyes sparkling like shooting stars, they barely contained their excitement.
"PARTYYYYYYYY!" Luffy, Franky, Usopp, Brook, and Chopper erupted in cheers, their shouts echoing through the courtyard.
"OUR ROLE WILL BE TO BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN HUMANS AND THE VARIOUS SURFACE RACES," All Might continued."WE'LL ESTABLISH CONTACT WITH THE MINKS, TONTATTAS, AND FISHMEN, CONNECTING THEM TO LEMURIA SO THEY CAN DECIDE THEIR OWN PATH. FOR NOW, THIS REMAINS CONFIDENTIAL UNTIL THE RIGHT MOMENT." He pressed a finger to his lips in a subtle warning.
"But won't meeting humans put them at risk? They're not prepared for that yet..." Iida pointed out with concern.
"WE'RE AWARE OF THE RISKS... BUT IF THE MINKS, TONTATTAS, OR FISHMEN LIVING ON THE SURFACE EVER FEEL THREATENED, THEY WILL HAVE A SAFE HAVEN. FOR NOW, OUR PRIMARY FOCUS IS LEMURIA, BUT IN THE FUTURE, OTHER KINGDOMS MAY OPEN THEIR DOORS AS WELL."
"So this whole thing is an experiment between Japan and Lemuria?"
"IN A WAY, YES," All Might admitted. "THIS WILL SERVE AS A TRIAL RUN—A FIRST STEP TOWARD SOMETHING GREATER. IF SUCCESSFUL, IT COULD PAVE THE WAY FOR MORE KINGDOMS AND NATIONS TO FOLLOW."
"But the goal isn't to confine them," Deku interjected, clenching his fists. "IT'S TO GIVE THEM FREEDOM—A CHANCE TO SEE THE WORLD FOR THEMSELVES!"
Realizing he had spoken against his mentor, Midoriya quickly covered his mouth, but All Might merely chuckled.
"WE UNDERSTAND THAT, YOUNG MIDORIYA. BUT THEY'RE NOT READY YET." His expression turned serious. "IN THE MEANTIME, WE'LL INVESTIGATE THE LEADERS WHO OPPOSE THIS CONNECTION—THOSE WHO BURY THE TRUTH OF THE PAST. ONCE WE UNCOVER THEIR INTENTIONS, WE'LL CONSULT WITH THE KINGS TO DETERMINE OUR NEXT MOVE."
He turned to the pirates. "STRAW HATS..."
The group perked up at the call, still buzzing with energy.
"MISS YUE REQUESTED THAT WE NOT DISCUSS HER PAST WITH THE STUDENTS."
"We had no intention of doing so," Zoro stated plainly.
"Some stories are meant to be told by the ones who lived them," Brook added.
Before their discussion could go any further, the minister stepped out of the palace, eyebrows raised in mild confusion at their lingering presence.
"Why are you all still standing around? Go on—enjoy the festivities."
Mineta let out a dramatic groan. "Yeah, no thanks. Last time you told us that, we wound up in the infirmary."
"That won't be an issue this time. You've been granted official guest-of-honor status by royal decree. The entire city is already hearing the news."
"That was fast!"
"That's gossipy!"
The weighty rustle of a thick coat announced Luffy's arrival before he spoke. With his usual bluntness, he grinned and declared, "Idiot. The easiest way to make friends is with a party."
"FOOD!" Usopp cheered.
"Alcohol..."
"They're underage, Roronoa," Aizawa sighed.
"MUSIC! YOHOHOHO!"
"DANCING!" Mina and Toru squealed.
"OOOOOW SUPEEEEEEER!"
The energetic chant of "Partyaaa, partyaaa, partyaaa!" echoed as Luffy, Franky, Usopp, Brook, and Chopper swayed excitedly. Their infectious enthusiasm quickly spread, pulling in Kirishima, Sero, Kaminari, and Uraraka, who eagerly joined the celebration.
"Banqueeeeeeeeet!" Ochako cheered, hands up in the air. Luffy, equally thrilled, mirrored her excitement as his eyes transformed into giant pieces of meat. Fascinated (and a little hungry), Ochako reached out to poke them.
"I wonder what kind of exotic ingredients they use here?" she mused.
"Fufufu, this will be fun," Robin chuckled.
"Haha, I just wanna dance!" Mina exclaimed, bouncing with excitement.
"I'm curious about their music," Jiro added, lightly tapping her earlobes.
"Is attendance mandatory?" Aizawa groaned. "I desperately need a break."
"Come on, Shouta! Time to bond with your friends!" Present Mic insisted.
"They're not my friends," Aizawa deadpanned.
"They aren't because you don't let yourself be loved!" Mic shook his shoulders dramatically.
"This is stupid," Bakugo grumbled.
"You're stupid," Luffy shot back without hesitation.
"YOU WANNA FIGHT, IDIOT?!"
"Meh, wouldn't be fun. You're too weak." Luffy casually picked his nose.
"WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY?!"
"Enough, you two."
A pair of fists crashed down on their heads, planting them firmly into the ground.
Two fresh lumps swelled instantly.
"Not even gonna argue?" Brook mused, asked Eraserhead.
"No... She has a knack for handling problem children—and both times, her approach has worked," He mused, scratching his head. With that, he willingly handed off the hotheaded explosion boy to someone just as volatile.
"Where did Nee-san go?"
"Baka-nee... Ba-Ka-Nee," Usopp corrected, drawing out each syllable with exaggerated finger movements.
"THE KINGS GRANTED HER PERMISSION TO VISIT CERTAIN EXHIBITS UNDER DR. TERKCHAK'S GUIDANCE, SO WE WON'T BE SEEING THEM FOR A WHILE."
Both groups took a moment to process the unexpected freedom they had been granted to explore the kingdom.
"So... where do we start?" Shoto said interested.
"Todoroki?"
"This is a rare opportunity, we should make the most of it."
"Should we split up? I'm kind of afraid to," Koda admitted hesitantly.
"ZORO'S ALREADY LOST!" Denki shouted, waving his hand to draw attention.
"That idiot," Bakugo grumbled.
"I'm right here..." Zoro growled, with a vein twitching on his forehead.
"Sorry, force of habit."
Before the conversation could devolve further, Malakat stepped in. "If I may suggest something." His voice immediately commanded everyone's attention.
"Start by walking through the streets. The celebration will be held at the outskirts of Otohime, near the mangrove region. There, all the races will convene, and you'll find stalls brimming with traditional goods from every kingdom."
The idea lit up their faces, excitement sparking through the group.
"YOSHA!" Luffy shouted, his energy infectious.
"YOOOSHAA!" the heroes echoed, their enthusiasm matching his.
Despite their newfound freedom, the UA students made sure to stick close to the pirates, who strode through the kingdom like it was their own backyard.
Many shops in Otohime had already closed, their owners rushing off to join the preparations. Residents hurried past, offering brief waves before vanishing into the festive bustle.
Then, out of nowhere, a shadowy figure landed behind the students involved in the bay incident.
"Hazel!"
A hyperactive squirrel flung his arms around them, followed by an octopus merman with an afro that twitched and rustled—revealing several Tontattas hidden within its curls.
"This is gonna be AMAZING! You'll get to experience all our traditions—ALL AT ONCE! So much culture, so much history! This is HUGE!" The squirrel practically buzzed with excitement.
"Are you guys excited? I'm excited! How about you guys?!" He turned to the tiny creatures in his coat, who bounced in place, making his fur dance wildly.
"We haven't had a celebration like this since Lord Zadquiel's coronation," the Mink explained, ending with a high-pitched squeal of excitement.
"NO WAY! YOUR PARTIES ARE THAT AMAZING?!" Mic practically buzzed, catching the excitement from the locals.
"We wouldn't know how they compare to yours," the Mink replied with a mischievous grin. "But I can guarantee that, with all your restrictions on using abilities, you've never experienced anything like this. Kikikikiki."
"Are they your friends?" Luffy asked, resting his hands behind his neck, strolling forward without a care.
"YES!" the girls and the Tontattas chorused enthusiastically.
"Shishishi. Not bad."
"Plenty of friendships start out as rivalries, right, Ruffy?"
"Fufufu"
"Shishishi"
The apprentice heroes couldn't suppress their smiles. While they recognized the reference to how some of their crewmates had started off as rivals, they now felt a sense of belonging in the carpenter's words, embracing their newfound friendship with the pirates.
"GARCHUUUUUU!" Sanji emerged from the crowd to greet the enthusiastic squirrel, completely ignoring his companions, who were leading the others away.
"This is going to take a while... They still need to set everything up, so most attractions will be closed,"
"Why not grab a bite to eat while they get everything ready?" suggested a Tontatta with messy hair.
Locating an open restaurant turned out to be a challenge, as everyone was occupied with preparations for the grand celebration, leaving only a small eatery big enough to fit them all.
The dishes in the center of the table vanished in a flash, with the most chaotic scene centering around their captain.
"LUFFY! CAN YOU PLEASE CALM DOWN? YOU'RE LEAVING NOTHING FOR US!"
"ÑO, FWE GNSDO PLEADES!"
"WHAT ON EARTH ARE YOU SAYING?! SWALLOW FIRST, THEN SPEAK!" Katsuki yelled with sharp teeth
"MHM." Luffy nodded, slurping the noodles while inadvertently swallowing part of the tablecloth along with Mineta, who was grappling with a steak.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH HE ATE MINETA!"
"BAD CAPTAIN! BAD! BAD!" Uraraka, Mina, and Toru laughed.
Mineta's slender legs dangled from Luffy's mouth as Usopp and Kaminari rushed over to yank him free, getting him unstuck from the captain's palate.
"WHATEVER YOU DO, DON'T CHEW!"
"JUST SPIT IT OUT, DAMN IT!" Bakugo banged his fists on the table.
"It's an unwritten rule... never interfere with his food," Usopp said, trying to rescue the small hero.
"Right, Chopper?" Zoro asked the reindeer, who just nodded while devouring a steak that was swiftly snatched from him.
"What a troublesome captain..." Midoriya sighed, sharing a glance with Shoto as they watched the bizarre spectacle unfold.
"Sorry, after Luffy-san fights, he gets ravenously hungry," the skeleton confessed.
"There's more! There's no need to fight!" Two stacks of fifteen plates each, reaching down to the floor, approached the table, carried by a small Tontatta with rosy cheeks in a waitress outfit.
"KAWAII!"
"Ah, let me help you!" Shoji offered, using his multiple arms to distribute plates, earning grateful smiles from the little girl, who returned for more assistance, with the young heroes pitching in.
"You really need to control your appetite, straw hat," Mic remarked, exasperated.
"Buuu—t I'm hungry—," Luffy replied, unfazed.
Jinbei, appearing deep in thought, turned his attention to the teachers. "You've been selected as Japan's mediators with Lemuria... However, you can't reach this place on their own..."
"What are you implying, Mr. Jinbei?" Nerumi asked, skeptical.
—Eventually, you'll have to come back and report on your progress... But according to what we've heard, it seems no one can navigate these waters.
The group fell silent, realizing they hadn't thought about this detail. They hadn't expected to separate, needing to handle their new responsibilities.
"Bummer" Said Luffy, filling his mouth with more food.
"Oh no, what a mess..." Nami said, rubbing her forehead.
"I think you'll need to learn a bit about navigating these waters for your next voyage."
"Nami-san?"
"You must pay attention on the way back... Because you will have to do the navigating yourselves."
"..."
""WHAT?! NO WAY?!" The shell ceiling of the restaurant rattled from the loud shout of the heroes.
"But we're not ready!"
"ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND, NAMI?! THEY'LL LEAD US STRAIGHT TO DISASTER!"
"Don't be too tough on Usopp... If Bartolomeo could sail through the New World with just an old lady on the Den-Den Mushi who had no navigation skills, then why can't they do it, especially with Nami's expertise?" the cyborg remarked, prompting Usopp to rethink his stance.
"I suppose you're right... We also had no knowledge about the sea at one point... BUT THEY'LL BE LEARNING FROM THE MOST PERILOUS OCEAN!"
"Nami, are you serious?" Zoro asked, eyeing the inexperienced group with doubt.
"They're smart and willing to learn... They'll be fine, hehe~" she said with a charming smile.
"LET ME BE YOUR SLAVE!" —Mineta yelled, with his face red after being accidentally swallowed by the reckless captain.
"Everyone will be," she responded, taking a bite of her snack and giving them a wink.
Time flew by, and the table was cleared of empty plates by the few remaining waitstaff.
"What time do you think it is?" Sato asked, observing the continued illumination and unaware of how the crystals provided light to the kingdom.
"Do you think it will get dark or is it always this bright?" Aoyama asked, looking out at the lovely warm-toned crystals.
"Does anyone have a working cell phone?" Ojiro inquired, wanting to check the time due to the lack of visible clocks.
"YES, YES, YES! I DO!" Mina, Jiro, and Uraraka chorused.
"Do those still have battery?"
"They used me as a charger." Denki grumbled.
"There's no internet or signal, so it's pretty useless."
"OH, IT'S ONE OF THOSE PICTURE BOXES! LET ME SEE IT!"
"NO, Luffy, back away... Every time you touch them, they explode!" Jiro exclaimed, pushing the captain's head away from Mina and her phone.
"It's still five... it won't be long until it gets dark."
"If it even gets dark."
The energetic pink girl turned away from everyone, asking them to look at the phone for a picture.
"What's she doing?"
"Taking a photo! Taking a photo!"
"Can it really take pictures?"
"YES! I have a few disassembled to see how they work... I know about circuits... but not the programming."
"I'm sorry, Mr. Franky... I can't help you with that. That's not really my area of expertise," Momo admitted shyly.
The photo captured the heroes happily posing, with one teacher dozing off, while the pirates looked on in wonder at the small device.
"Are you done?" an octopus merman asked.
"Yes... and we can't pay for this." The captain admitted with a smile, patting his belly.
"Chop chop chop" He started laughing, popping the suction cups.
"Don't worry about it."
"Yeah, just get out of here" suggested a raccoon Mink, who was cleaning a massive stack of dishes. "Please..."
"What? What did we do?"
"There's still plenty for you to experience... Follow the river, and you'll come across traditional stands from our society." The group accepted the octopus's advice as he gathered the final dirty plates, and they made their way out of the restaurant.
The estuary's shoreline stretched before them, a mosaic of smooth pebbles cradled by a sea of clovers and ferns. Their emerald hues shimmered under the shifting light, seamlessly blending with the iridescent tones of Otohime's domain.
The sheer number of people moving through the area made it nearly impossible to navigate the terrain. Small stands and tents lined the path, offering unfamiliar artifacts to passersby, while in more open spaces, what appeared to be a ceremony was taking place, with garments and accessories being handed out in a seemingly fraternal manner.
"WUOOOOOOOOOAH!"
The young captain raised a hand to his forehead to shield his eyes from the light as he eagerly scanned his surroundings, his head turning from side to side with excitement. Without hesitation, he picked a direction and darted off, dragging Chopper and Usopp along with him.
"WAIT, CAPTAIN!"
"Captain?" The young heroes turned their questioning eyes toward the Symbol of Peace.
"YOU CAN THINK WHATEVER YOU WANT ABOUT HIM... BUT IN THE END, HE'S THE CAPTAIN OF THE SHIP WE'RE TRAVELING ON."
"Hmph. Mummy understands." Zoro scoffed, a rare chuckle escaping him as he veered off on his own.
"Since when does All Might show him that kind of respect?"
"Zoro-kun, where exactly are you headed?" Tokoyami inquired, extending a cautious arm toward the swordsman, fully aware of his disastrous sense of direction.
"I smell Sake..."
"OH, NO! YOU'RE NOT GOING ALONE." Mic declared, springing into action alongside the other teachers.
"I'll go with him," Aizawa muttered with exhaustion.
"SHOUTA?!"
"I never thought I'd say this... but I need a drink."
"AND WHAT ABOUT THE STUDENTS?!"
"I don't have the energy to keep up with them. They're your problem now, Mic."
"YOU KNOW WHAT? THEY'RE OLD ENOUGH."
"DO NOT CAUSE TROUBLE. IF YOU LOSE YOUR WAY, FOLLOW THE RIVER ON YOUR LEFT. WE WILL REUNITE AT THE GRAND PLAZA." The blond instructed, giving directions like a flight attendant.
"YOU'RE SERIOUSLY JUST LEAVING THEM?"
"Yes." Both teachers answered in perfect unison.
Aizawa turned his gaze to All Might,with an unreadable expression.
"All Might... do we have the kings' word that we're truly welcome here?" Aizawa asked, wanting to confirm their safety.
"ABSOLUTELY... ANY DISPUTE THAT ARISES WITHIN THESE LANDS WILL BE DEEMED A CRIME. HOWEVER, SHOULD YOU FIND YOURSELVES IN TROUBLE, SEEK OUT A MEDIATOR FROM AMONG THOSE PRESENT. THE MOMENT YOU DO, THE CONFLICT WILL CEASE IMMEDIATELY."
"Yes, they already explained that to us." Nerumi interrupted the explanation.
"THEY DID? PERFECT."
"HEY, RORONOA, LET'S GRAB A DRINK... MY TREAT." Present Mic offered.
"They're not charging us..."
"EXACTLY! YOU CAN DRINK AS MUCH AS YOU WANT! HAHAHAHA!"
Zoro regarded him with indifference, clearly unimpressed by Yamada's humor. Undeterred, the hero draped an arm around the swordsman's shoulders, creating a noise reminiscent of crumpling paper.
Irritated, Zoro shoved the hero away and reached his back, feeling a note that had been stuck to clothes. Without a second thought, he tossed it to the ground and stomped on it, his expression morphing into a fierce, shark-like snarl.
"MUMMY, STOP STICKING NOTES ON MY BACK!"
"BUT THEY WORK."
The students along with the pirates erupted into laughter at the fearsome swordsman outburst.
"Let's get moving..." Aizawa muttered, dragging the blond along with him as he continued walking, making sure to pull him away from the still-fuming swordsman.
"I think I'll take a look around and see if I can find something interesting... maybe a new instrument," the musician mused, prompting the shipwright to follow suit.
"Mr. Brook, may I accompany you?" Jiro asked hesitantly.
"AAAOOW, THIS WILL BE A SUPEEEEER MUSIC EXPEDITION!" Franky declared, striking a dramatic pose with his blocky forearms forming a star.
The students glanced at the shipwright—dressed flamboyantly, legs spread wide and his speedo prominently on display—then shifted their eyes toward the skeleton, whose reputation as a shameless perv was well known.
""Someone keep Jiro company!" Yaoyorozu urged.
"Why?" Uraraka asked, confused about what was wrong with her going along with two adults.
"Because she's surrounded by perverts."
"Denki, you're up!"
"Oh, perfect. Let's add one more to the mix..." Sero remarked dryly.
"OW, you heard her, grape-head! Come with us!"
"IT WAS SARCASM!"
"Actually... I think I'll stay," Jiro muttered, suddenly hesitant.
"Don't worry, I've got your back," Denki assured her with a confident grin, flashing a thumbs-up and a playful wink. His carefree demeanor seemed to ease her nerves, and after a brief pause, she decided to go along with the musician party.
Meanwhile, the fish-man quietly slipped away without a word.
"Jinbei Oyabun, where are you headed?" Robin asked with curiosity.
"This place is so different from my hometown. There are some similarities, but also stark differences... I'd like to take a walk, for nostalgia's sake."
"Can I join you? I'd love to learn more about this place," Koda asked softly.
"You just want to make sure nothing happens to you," Toru whispered.
"Eto... that too," Ojiro admitted, stepping forward as well.
"Shahahaha, of course, you're both welcome to tag along," Jinbei said, leading Ojiro, Koda, and Shoji away.
Nami observed as the group gradually dispersed before turning to the heroine in charge of supervising the young heroes.
"Nerumi-san, we're going to check out some Mink accessories. They usually have stunning clothing and jewelry... Would you like to join us?"
"Ah, yes! Thank you for the invitation!"
"Anyone else want to tag along?"
"Me, me!" Mina and Hagakure chimed in excitedly.
"Ochako, Tsuyu, Momo, are you coming?"
"No... We're more interested in checking out the local food stalls."
"But you just ate..."
"Yeah, but this is our last day here... We should take full advantage of the opportunity."
"Uraraka-chan, Tsuyu-chan, Momo-chan... Allow me to lead you to the finest delicacies this kingdom has to offer," the cook proposed, bowing with the grace of a true gentleman.
"Excusez-moi, monsieur Sanji, accompanying someone with such a refined palate would be an honor. May I join you?"
"Oui, petit monsieur," Sanji replied, making the young blond's eyes light up with excitement.
"Looking for anything in particular?"
"Cheese."
"..."
"I doubt we'll find cheese," Yaoyorozu remarked.
"Do you think the Minks... milk themselves?" Sato suddenly mused, butting into the conversation without invitation.
Sanji turned bright red at the thought, while Mineta, sensing something, felt a tingling sensation wash over him as a mischievous grin crept across his face.
"YOU'RE ALL SICK!"
"I haven't seen any livestock around..." Todoroki analized.
"Well, they have desserts, which means they must have eggs and milk," Iida pointed out, joining the conversation, with Midoriya trailing behind—attracted to the group that consisted of his two closest friends and the mentor who consistently avoided teaching him his fighting techniques.
"THERE'S TOO MANY OF YOU!"
"OI, OLD MAN! I'M NOT A DAMN BABYSITTER!"
"DO NOT WORRY, YOUNG SANJI. I SHALL KEEP YOU COMPANY SO THEY AREN'T A BURDEN..."
Sanji's expression soured at All Might's words, his silence lasting just long enough to convey his deep regret.
"If that's the condition, I'd better keep them," He muttered, casting a glance at Iida and Midoriya, who looked at him with admiration, while the hero with glasses seemed frustrated, because deep inside, he knew Sanji wouldn't teache them anything.
"All right, I accept your help in managing those brats."
"YOU PROMISED YOU WILL TEACH—!" Iida started to complain.
"Not here!" Sanji interrupted.
The two groups had fully split, leaving Tokoyami, Katsuki, Kirishima, and Sero stranded without a plan.
Sero looked at his companions, who had previously been part of the incident with the giants.
"Ready for another beating?" he teased.
"SHUT THE HELL UP, YOU TAPE WEIRDO!" Katsuki shot back in annoyance.
"You still wanna go with the giants?" Tokoyami asked Kirishima, who just scratched his head.
"Hahaha, I think I've had enough of that... but if that's what you want, let's go," Kirishima chuckled.
In the distance, the small group was being stalked by a trio of burly, bovine Minks.
"What about those guys?" suggested one buffalo Mink, pointing its antlers toward the group.
"You think they have what it takes?" A Mink asked the rhino among them.
"They've got strong, passionate energy... We could use them," the rhino replied, moving closer, towering over them at twice their size.
The captain's group struggled to make progress as they frequently stopped at shops filled with strange artifacts from the Merpeople and Tontattas, which eventually led them to their group of pervs with their dubious tastes.
"Hey! Franky, come check this out!" Luffy called out excitedly, grinning widely as he pointed to a gelatinous, opaque sphere that changed colors when touched, as its insides shifted and swirled.
"That's disgusting," Jiro remarked with distaste as they moved past the orb, trying to find a way to reshape it.
"What is that?" Kaminari asked, leaning in closer for a better look.
"Duuude... like, I have no clue," the jellyfish merman behind the stand said, totally chill and just vibing with everything going on around him.
"I think I, like, totally battled a squid for this... or maybe it was a sperm whale? Who even knows, man..."
"Dude, you don't even know how to fight..." another jellyfish piped up, looking all melted against the counter.
"Brooo... I think I, like, totally swiped it..."
"I'm a criminal, man... These hands totally betrayed me," he sighed, staring at his hands like they were the source of all his problems before shaking them frustated.
"Bro... check it out! My hands are, like, totally transparent!"
"You're transparent!" they all yelled in unison, with sharp teeth.
"WHAT HAPPENED TO ME?!"
"Dude... you're gonna, like, totally disappear for stealing..." Both jellyfish freaked out, kicking their feet in front of their stand, making the pirates and heroes watching feel super uncomfortable.
Then, out of nowhere, a multi-armed octopus fishman grabbed everyone's hands, starting to disinfect them, no matter if they were bones or metal.
"Just ignore them... The toxins from the jellyfish keep them in a constant state of... how can I say it... " he pondered, glancing at the guests. "Mentally gone..."
"They're bunch of stoners..." Mineta remarked, observing the two jellyfish as if they were under the influence of narcotics.
"What is this?" Usopp asked, handing over the strange and unpleasant object.
"Squid egg..." Explained the Merman. "This guys probably got eaten by a squid... but their venom took out the predator, so they just kinda... held onto the egg."."
"HOW DO YOU NOT REMEMBER SOMETHING LIKE THAT?!" Denki madly yelled at the pair of jellyfish that just kepts looking at their hands.
"Jellyfish don't have brains... So jellyfish fish-men may have pretty limited reasoning skills." Jiro explained.
"Kinda like you, Straw Hat," Denki teased, right before the captain smacked him.
Far from the festivities, the fish-man strolled through the empty streets of Otohime, admiring the changes in architecture across different districts and appreciating the absence of those once-secluded pockets of poverty.
"What's on your mind, Jinbei-san? You seem deep in thought," Ojiro asked, noticing how the pirate carefully analyzed his surroundings.
"It's nothing... Just that it feels strange how well this kingdom functions. There's usually some part of society that doesn't receive the same treatment, given the circumstances."
"Like slums?" Shoji interjected.
"Exactly. The outcasts of society, those who aren't supported or those who simply refuse to be."
"How were the rulers of your kingdom like, Jinbei-san? Were there places like that?" Koda asked curiously, watching as the fish-man fell into thought.
"Ah! Forget it, I shouldn't have—" He regretted his words, but the fish-man answered anyway, continuing his walk without looking at the group.
"The Gyojin District was initially a refuge for orphans, supported by the kingdom. However, as time passed, it grew into an unstable and lawless territory, becoming a haven for exiled fish-men. Eventually, it deteriorated into a dangerous, forsaken zone that pirates came to dominate."
Jinbei turned and noticed that the small group of three had grown to seven. Four curious fish-men of varying ages had joined in, eager to hear firsthand about civilization in the past.
"We don't have dangerous districts, Jinbei-sama," a long-haired oarfish merkid replied, addressing the pirate's suspicions.
"We make every effort to reintegrate those who stray from their values due to shortcomings in their upbringing... If that proves unsuccessful, we relocate them to different environments, giving them a chance to start anew. The first step in that journey is Atlantis," a mermaid explained.
"The fish-men there are way bigger!" a young mermaid child exclaimed, raising her hands excitedly.
"That's where the children of King Poseidon and Queen Amphitrite reside. They manage the aggressive tendencies of troubled individuals, guiding them through different kingdoms in the hope that exposure to diverse cultures will inspire a shift in their mindset or behavior."
"If they still struggle to find their place, they're allowed to roam the oceans in search of their true identity. As explorers, they remain under constant surveillance via Vivre Cards... though most don't survive the perilous waters. Few can endure more than two years beyond the kingdoms before their Vivre Cards are completely consumed."
The conversation passed from one mouth to another, as different fish-men and mermaids gathered around the pirate and students, each contributing to the discussion.
"What happens if they end up causing harm?" Shoji asked curiously.
"They're imprisoned in the great fortress."
"So rebellious fish-men are exiled from the kingdoms?!" Ojiro exclaimed in concern.
"Normally, those we see as potential threats to the kingdom are assigned to serve under the king as guards. The idea is that by making them grasp the weight of power and the responsibility of protecting those weaker than themselves, make their mindset begins to shift."
"But isn't it risky to put that kind of power in the hands of aggressive individuals?"
"It is... which is why they go through extensive training. They must pass several strict evaluations before they can even reach that point."
"Like Malakat-oyabun."
"Wait—MALAKAT WAS A CRIMINAL?!"
"Many lionfish fish-men... It's in their nature. But understanding it makes it easier to redirect their behavior into something useful instead of suppressing it."
Jinbei couldn't help but notice how more and more locals gathered around him, what started as a small group of four now turning into a tour of nearly forty.
"Just when I finally got rid of Mäkelä and Tuna's persistent company..." he thought wearily, sweat forming on his brow.
"What happened to the deserters?" the pirate directed his question to the crowd.
"Many lost contact... We assume they eventually found their place beyond the Calm Belts, integrating into surface societies as part of their journey of self-discovery."
"But that's just speculation... They could've also been devoured by Sea Kings."
The former captain fell silent, contemplating the terrible fate that might have awaited those who ventured to the surface cities. He then noticed how the young heroes looked uneasy, realizing that they, too, understood the mystery behind the missing explorers.
In an unexpected turn, the culinary tour group, led by the chef, ended up being the largest yet most peaceful.
Everyone followed the pace of the blonde chef, who paused frequently, drawn by the enticing aromas in the air. He asked the locals insightful questions, showcasing his extensive knowledge of cooking and exotic ingredients, exchanging information with them while a group of participants eagerly contributed their thoughts.
The group was thrilled by the diverse range of flavors and fascinating combinations of textures and smells. Aoyama, in particular, stuck close to the chef, applauding his refined taste and becoming his constant companion, much to the chef's dismay.
The pirate grabbed a sample from a tray, savoring an oyster prepared with herbs from the Tontatta lands. He was impressed by how the flavors from both cultures blended harmoniously in the small dish. Sanji took a few more and, with a courteous gesture, shared them with the heroines, who blushed, grateful to be treated like royalty by the young chef.
"Th-thank you, Sanji-san," they said shyly in unison, bowing in gratitude as the pirate acknowledged their thanks with a nod.
"I can't believe Sanji-san is a pirate, kero."
"He's such a gentleman and a fantastic chef. His cooking is even more delicate and flavorful than the chefs at our mansion..."
"Oh... rich girl's palate," The girls whispered under their breath.
Froppy's words reminded the symbol of peace of the immense power he had witnessed in the blond gentleman they all admired. He swallowed nervously, recalling the disdain he had felt since their first encounter at sea.
"This is for you, bag of bones." The snack dropped into Yagi's hands, who, lost in thought, nearly missed it.
"OH, THANK YOU..." he said with a polite smile, trying to mask his discomfort.
"By the way, drink this... Its bitter touch will enhance the oyster's flavors."
"E-TO... I DON'T DRINK ALCOHOL."
"I'm aware... It's a typical fermented drink that doesn't contain alcohol."
The cook's attentive behavior only confused the hero further.
"I know my diners," he replied, smiling proudly for understanding and adapting to the tastes of those around him, before moving on with a tray full of snacks and drinks, heading toward the young heroes.
"ACTUALLY... HE'S NOT A BAD GUY..."
"Help yourselves..." Sanji said reluctantly, handing the tray of food to the group of heroes.
"HE JUST HAS VERY OBVIOUS FAVORITISM..." A few drops slid down his disheveled hair.
"All Might..." His pupil called out, catching his attention.
"Sanji-san... He's very strong... Isn't he?"
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN, YOUNG MIDORIYA? WHY SUCH A SUDDEN COMMENT?"
"After meeting Lagertha-sama... I can't sense my surroundings the same way anymore..."
"ARE YOU CAPABLE OF...?"
"I understand now what you meant by listening to their voices..." he said with a thoughtful expression.
"HOW MUCH CAN YOU SEE?"
"His voice radiates great strength..." He remarked, watching the blond interact with the girls.
"I SEE... YOU STILL CAN'T SEE THE SHAPE OF HIS BODY... BUT THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS." All Might praised Deku, giving him a firm pat on the back, which brought smiles to both of their faces.
The table was overflowing with various bottles of liquor, most notably sake, which were disorganized and continuously arriving.
Present Mic watched with caution as the pirate shared drinks with Aizawa and the strangers around them. He noticed how the cold liquid slid down the sweaty bottles, and he could feel his tongue urging him to taste the exquisite drink fermented deep on the ocean floor by the abyssal sirens... or so his partner had said, describing it as "a unique and strange taste that he couldn't quite explain."
The drink's effect took hold of the usually animated pirate, who for the first time, smiled without his usual gloom. He casually draped an arm over Aizawa's shoulder and moved to refill his glass, but as he did, the exhausted teacher hand dropped, showing he had already passed out.
"Ah... He's out cold," Zoro said, cushioning the hero's fall before he could crash into the bottles on the table.
"He was already tired... He's been staying up on the ship looking after the group... you know... traveling with criminals."
"That, and even though it doesn't seem like it... Taking care of those teens is a pretty heavy job." Roronoa finished explaining as he grabbed the drink from the fainted hero.
"Zoro-san, that's too much alcohol... How is it possible that you're still conscious?"
"It was meant to be for everyone here, but none of you helped me."
The pirate glanced at the blond, who didn't take his eyes off the bottle in his hand.
"Are you sure you don't want a drink?"
"I do! But I shouldn't. I'm under treatment for my post-surgery care and..."
"It'll only nullify your painkillers..." Zoro tossed him a bottle while wiping his mouth with the sleeve of his trench coat.
"I'll feel the pain from the sutures!"
"And?"
"AAAAND?! I'M NOT A MASOCHIST!"
"I see... well, there's nothing else to do," Zoro said, taking the sake that had been brought for Yamada, savoring the deep drink.
"We have to bring some of those back home..." The blond muttered, distressed, on the verge of tears.
"By the time you can drink, there won't be any more."
"RORO-NOOOOAAA, DON'T BE SELFISH!" He whined, watching as the pirate ignored him.
A trio of bovines Minks led the most energetic and prominent students to a tent filled with traditional tribal clothing.
The vibrant colors they wore were dominated by reds, oranges, yellows, and blacks, adorned with woven patterns and geometric designs.
"I don't understand... Why us?" Tokoyami asked.
"Stop complaining, Tokoyami... This is so manly!" Kirishima said excitedly, trying on a pair of oversized red and black pants with frayed strips from the knees down, which added movement to every step he took.
"We needed a strong, energetic group for this task... But if you don't want to participate, feel free to opt out," said a buffalo, handing the redhead a light sleeveless shirt with soft colors and a geometric pattern stripe.
"Why are we dressing up? Are we going to dance?" Sero asked embarrassed.
"We're going to make fools of ourselves," Tokoyami grumbled as his dark aura spreaded.
"Haha, your expression fits your style," the buffalo teased, seeing the crow surrounded by a dark cloud just at thinking about participating.
"WHY DID YOU THINK WE WANTED TO DANCE?!"
"No one said anything about dancing," the bull Mink replied slightly offended, handing Cellophane a pair of heavy drumsticks.
"You two will be in charge of playing these beautiful drums," the rhino said, pulling back the tent to reveal enormous drums.
"ARE WE PLAYING DRUMS?!"
"With these, we'll begin the grand event."
"Usually, the strongest Minks play them... But since you're guests, we've decided to choose those capable of making them really resonate."
"You fought against Ivar, so this should be easy for you," the rhino said proudly, slapping the drum to create a loud and deep sound.
"I didn't take part in that battle," Cellophane raised his hand.
"You are oart of the pack..." the rhino brushed him off.
"We usually play with our hands... But it might be tricky for you due to your build," the bull teased, laughing at their heights.
"What are you implying, steak?" Bakugo growled, insulted.
"I'll look ridiculous doing that..."
"Don't be rude, it's very manly... I even feel like it makes me stronger."
"That's right, bald monkey. It's a traditional outfit meant to honor both the old and new generations," the bull explained, handing Kirishima a necklace made of cow and buffalo teeth.
"Bald monkey..." The remark caused veins to appear on Bakugo's forehead.
"That's why the necklaces have small teeth from calves and large ones from our grandparents or parents."
"Gross!"
"Do you agree for us to wear something so personal?" Kirishima asked, proudly wearing the precious accessory, admiring it along with the several bracelets on his arm that jingled with each movement.
"Haha, yes! That's what it's all about! Lending something precious to form a non-blood connection," the bull said happily, touching cheeks with the boy, making him feel honored to wear the full set.
"But... I don't have anything to lend..."
"Maybe when we meet again... Just wearing it, my friend, will be enough."
"YOU CAN COUNT ON ME, MR. ISLERO! I PROMISE I WON'T LET YOU DOWN!"
"I know you won't, young hedgehog... And none of you will either," the bull said with a smile.
"Haha, Yeah!" Sero and Kirishima cheered, while Tokoyami and Bakugo only watched them, smiling while holding the sturdy drumsticks.
"Maybe the skinny one will disappoint us..." the rhino muttered.
"HEY!"
The girls headed toward the Mink area to admire their beautiful jewelry more closely, captivated by the colorful and lightweight outfits worn by the females.
The wore beautiful and vibrant necklaces, long skirts made of transparent fabric with multiple layers to cover their bodies; however, the tight tops and slits on the legs accentuated their glossy, painted fur.
"Aaaaah, they look so cute!" Toru and Ashido cheered in unison.
"It seems like they're going to put on a show," Robin deduced, turning toward the group of Minks, who stopped to look at them in return, with a leopard drawing someone's attention from the group.
"I think they're planning something," Nerumi noted, noticing the conspiratorial glances.
The crowd parted, revealing the white-haired woman dressed in traditional attire—a red skirt, a black top, vibrant warm-colored necklaces, and an abundance of bracelets. Her skin was displayed like a painted canvas, adorned in blue and white, with only a small section of her skin left uncovered.
"SO MANY ACCESSORIES!" the heroines exclaimed.
"Do you think so? I'm still not used to having my body exposed," she said, shrinking with embarrassment, using one of the many layers of the skirt to wrap herself up to her shoulders.
"The key thing is that you feel at ease," Nami said.
"So, what were you whispering about?" Nerumi asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Oh!" The woman put a hand into one of the many pouches hanging from her waist, pulling out orange pigment and starting to draw on Mina's face without her consent.
"What are you doing?"
"The orange represents the optimism you give off," she said as she painted a couple of geometric wing-like symbols on her cheeks.
"I wasn't referring to..."
"Letting your thoughts flow freely and the peace you radiate are just a few of the many qualities we're celebrating today," she said, finishing the unusual symbols on the girl's forehead before shaking her hands to brush off the dusty pigment.
The white-haired turned toward the floating clothes, grabbing green pigment and, using her thumbs, painting Toru's eyelids.
"Now, they'll be able to look you in the eyes," she said, satisfied with her work, resting her hands on her hips.
"Well, that was an example."
"Bakanee, did you find them?" A leopard called.
"Just a sec!"
"Let's go!" she invited the girls, taking Toru and Nerumi by the hands and nodding toward the pirates to follow them.
"Where to?" Nami asked.
"They'll explain the meaning behind each symbol on the body... but you'll need to paint each other... It's part of showing unity and trust," she said with a smile, leading them to a group of Minks who were painting each other, waiting with open arms and offering pigments.
"I'll leave them in your hands," she pointed out, her hands now covered in orange powder.
"Terk, go get Roronoa! He's a friendly guy, he won't hurt you."
"You want me to get killed?!" the investigator shot back, bristling.
"Hahaha, did he threaten you too?" she teased, taking the Mink's arm.
Several familiar voices joined the girls who were busy painting their bodies according to the instructions given by the Minks.
"Cultural appropriation! We can't do this!" Yaoyorozu still in his casual clothes, protested, clearly upset.
"Cultural appropriation? We're inviting you to join our community. You're free to wear our clothes and participate in our traditions... But you can also refuse," A merman guiding them to the painting area explained.
"¡WOAAAAAAAAH NAMI~SWAN, ROOOOOOOBIN~CHWAAAAN, NERUMIIII~CHWAAAN! YOU LOOK BEAUTIFUUUUL~ CHARMIIING~!"
The students turned at the sound of the cook's words and blushed as he saw the women dressed in such a way: with their legs and stomachs accentuated.
"Now it's your turn," Nerumi said, leading Momo, Tsuyu, and Uraraka to get ready.
"Isn't there something less revealing?" Momo asked embarrassed.
"Yaomomo... Your hero costume shows more than theirs..." Sato complained.
"Yes, but it's necessary for my quirk... I don't really enjoy it," Momo said, blushing.
"The Tontatta and Giant clothes wouldn't fit... And there's not enough time to make something for you... Hmm..."
"What about the mermaid outfits? Kero?"
"Those are even more revealing..." A wolf commented, completely catching Sanji's attention.
"WHERE?!" Sanji nostrils flared as he searched for them.
"But you can still wear them..." One of the costume attendants offered.
"I think I will... What about you, girls?"
"Me too."
Aoyama's eyes gleamed as he saw how shiny, yet minimal, the mermaid outfits were.
"I NEED IT!"
"Aoyama, those are for women..." Todoroki pointed out.
"I'll find a men's version."
"What if there isn't one?"
Todoroki's words only left Aoyama confused, deep in thought.
"Maybe I can... I'll come up with something!" He said dramatically, looking for a mermaid who could help him get one of those sparkling outfits.
"What about you guys?" Nami asked.
"We're fine, thanks," Deku, Iida, and Sato responded together.
"I think I'll like to wear something like that..."
"TODOROKI?!"
"It's a nice gesture for them to share, the least we can do is join in."
"Kyaaa! You'll look so cute!" The painted girls gushed.
"Huh?"
"Todoroki is right. They're making an effort to share the whole experience, the least we can do is join in," Izuku said with renewed determination.
The group, mostly conformed by the pirates, arrived with their chests exposed, covered only by leather shoulder pads or fur coats, feathered necklaces, various horned helmets, long wool boots, leather kilts with studs, and striped fabric pants with fur... Except for the carpenter, who wore a leather loincloth with studs, resembling a thong.
"Loincloth?"
"He just want to be almost naked," —Denki said with a sweat drop running down his hair.
"WOOOAAAH! YOU ALL LOOK SO MANLY!"
"Where did you get those outfits?" Tokoyami demanded.
"Giant's clothing."
"Made by the Tontattas," Usopp added to the captain's explanation.
"Of course... the special treatment," they muttered enviously.
"Hizashi, Shouta... You two aren't joining in?" Midnight asked
"No."
"It's not my style," the blonde said, running a hand through his hair.
"Hizashi... Didn't you forget something?" Shouta asked, causing the blonde to retreat into the crowd, unnoticed.
"Todoroki-kun, shall we go?" Deku took the lead, looking for someone to provide them with clothing.
"Sanji-san? Sato? Iida-kun?" He asked, to which the three agreed.
"All Might...?"
"THANK YOU YOUNG MIDORIYA, BUT I THINK I'LL PASS," he said, dodging a sudden attack.
"Shaggy, don't be a party pooper!" Luffy's arms returned to their place, scattering colored dust in the air.
"Go get him!" the captain ordered Chopper, Usopp, and Franky who quickly followed the captain command.
"WHAT? WAIT! NO!"
Yagi successfully evaded the three pirates, who immediately obeyed the captain's command without hesitation. They used their abilities to carry out the task, but the thick crowd made maneuvering difficult. Meanwhile, the retired hero realized he wasn't as out of breath as he had been before, making it easier to move without fatigue. He thought back to the brief healing he'd received in hell that had restored his lung function and placed his hand on his chest to feel his steady breathing.
The path cleared, and a loud "Voice" warned him of danger. He saw two palms coming toward him quickly—too late.
Despite seeing the attack coming, his speed and position prevented him from escaping. The captain's palms hit him square in the face, leaving handprints on both eyes.
"Luffy! You're going to sink his eyes in even more!" Chopper scolded.
"Straw Hat... you dropped the powder," Bakanee pointed out, observing his attack alongside Terkchak, noticing the clean hands of the pirate.
"Oh, you're right... Shishishi."
"SHAGGY! GET READY!"
"Mr. Luffy, you didn't pay attention to the instructions…" The panther with his fur covered in deep purple tribal markings muttered apologetically as it watched the boy grab a random pigment.
"Don't bother, Terk. Luffy has the attention span of a three-year-old. —Nami sighed.
"I should have expected that." The panther replied as Bakanee snatched the mismatched colors from Luffy's hands and swapped them for white powder.
"There. Go hit him again." The white-haired gestured toward the hero.
"Yosh!"
"Oi!" he shouted alarmed, as the pirate lunged at him.
"Ahhh, I was just joking! You're going to break him!" The woman shouted before sprinting after them, vanishing into the bustling crowd.
In their wake, a clear path remained, through which Aoyama reappeared, accompanied by a striking, dark-skinned mermaid.
"Such dazzling shine!" The group exclaimed in astonishment, with their eyes fixed on Aoyama's attire—an outfit reminiscent of a figure skater's costume, entirely adorned with countless tiny sequins.
"It's not traditional, but he was very eager to wear it." The mermaid accompanying him explained.
"He literally convulsed when he saw it!" A Tontatta piped up, peeking out from the mermaid afro.
"Convulsed from excitement?"
"No… There were too many lights, and he was actually blinded for a moment."
The group was almost fully assembled, though Mineta was practically salivating like a hungry wolf at the sight of the women from the past and their teacher. His shameless staring, however, was abruptly interrupted by Kaminari's question.
"There's still something I don't get…"
"What is it, Kaminari?"
"Why do women from the past have fewer ribs? Their waists are ridiculously tiny." He tilted his head, comparing them to their teacher.
"I mean... I get it for the mermaids and Minks... but them?" He gestured toward the two pirate women and the vessel talking with Mina and Toru.
"Are you seriously criticizing their bodies?" Jiro snapped, overhearing him.
"Nee-san! Why were you hiding such incredible assets?!" Mineta pointed shamelessly at her figure.
"Huh?" She turned confused, only to see his depraved expression, prompting her to hide behind Jinbei in embarrassment.
"Just ignore him, he's a pervert." Both heroines went after her.
The woman simply scowled in disgust before walking away toward the Minks, who were making final adjustments to their outfits, leaving the human group behind.
"Great, you scared her off." Kaminari huffed.
"Is everyone here?" Nami scanned the crowd, doing a quick headcount before realizing two were missing.
"Where's Zoro-kun?!" Tokoyami frowned, unable to spot the swordsman or their loudmouthed teacher.
"Here…" A voice called out nearby.
"He was here the whole time?!" They all internally screamed, stunned that the swordsman had been so close yet undetected in the dense crowd.
"He's improving!" They let out a collective sigh of relief.
"Congratulations, Zoro!" The group broke into applause as he emerged from the sea of people, accompanied by Present Mic.
"Oi…"
The clapping gradually faded into silence as everyone, upon closer inspection, noticed something… off.
"The trick is getting lost with him." Mic declared proudly, claiming victory for successfully returning the swordsman to the group—a feat never achieved before.
"Hey, Mic… His forehead… Who did that?" Usopp whispered, nudging the hero and pointing to the red pigment scrawled across Zoro's forehead: "LOST CHILD, PLEASE HELP."
"Please don't tell him, or he's going to kill me." Mic whispered back, sweating so much that his own face paint started to smear.
"Hahahahaha! Zoro, you idiot!" Luffy burst out laughing pointing at him, quickly followed by the rest of the group.
"What? What's so funny?" Zoro frowned, completely clueless.
A/N:
Monster King: Thank you so much! I'll do my best to continue it. I had abandoned it due to a lack of support and time, but now that I've finished the Spanish version, I can finally focus on the translation. I truly appreciate your support!