I do not own One Piece
It is owned by Oda
I own the OC's
Enjoy!
Jou POV
It's been a few weeks since they left Drum Kingdom. Now that Nami was well again, she returned to navigating the ship on course to Alabasta. Chopper, their newest crewmate and doctor, was excited to be on their boat and be a pirate. Jou was on the front bow with Luffy and Chopper, admiring the view of the vast open sea.
"Wow!" Chopper exclaimed. "The ocean seems to go on forever."
"Yep, it sure does!" Luffy agreed.
"Yeah, the sea is huge," Jou said. "So huge that there's so much to see out there. Plenty of adventures to go on!"
"Yep, adventures!" Luffy grinned.
"Being a pirate is so much fun!" Chopper smiled. Jou was glad Chopper was enjoying himself. He seemed to become used to everyone on the crew and fit nicely. He spent much time with Luffy and Usopp since they were pretty childish despite their age. The door to the kitchen opened to reveal Miss Valentine, the woman wearing a white and yellow striped tank top and a pair of blue jeans. She was holding a platter of chocolate in her hands, a happy smile on her face.
"Hey, everyone!" she called. "I made some chocolate! Wanna try some?"
"Me!" Luffy called. "I do!"
"Me too!" Chopper quickly follows after Luffy. Jou didn't go with them; he stayed at the front of the ship, leaning against the rail, his arms folded over his chest. He wasn't alone long as Valentine approached him with the platter of chocolate.
"Here, try some!" she smiled.
"Sure," Jou nodded, taking one of the chocolates. He popped it into his mouth, tasting the sweet flavor of the treat. "That's not half-bad. I didn't know you could make chocolate."
"Thanks," Valentine said. "Being an agent for Baroque Works, I was busy with assignments. Making chocolate was mainly a hobby of mine. But now that I'm no longer an agent, I want to make being a Chocolatier my new job."
"Hmm?" Jou hummed in thought. "Would you say that's your dream?"
"My dream?" she wondered.
"Yeah," Jou nodded. We're pirates, but each of us has a reason why we decided to be pirates. Luffy wants to be King of the Pirates. Chopper wants to cure any disease. Marianne said she wanted to make a fantastic work of art. I'm looking for the All Scope. So, it sounds like being a Chocolatier is yours."
"I suppose it is," Valentine said. "That settles it. My dream is to be Chocolatier and make chocolate that plenty of people will enjoy."
"You know..." Jou said. "It's funny that you want to be a Chocolatier, yet your codename is Valentine." This caused the woman beside Jou to laugh.
"I suppose it makes sense, does it?" Valentine commented. There was silence for a moment, the waves the only sound to fill the quiet. "Mikita."
"What was that?" Jou questioned.
"My real name is Mikita," she smiled.
"Mikita?" Jou grinned back. "I see. Nice to meet you, Mikita."
"Been a while since I used my real name," Mikita stated. "Honestly, it's nice to hear it." Jou and Mikita smiled at each other until they saw Nami standing behind them, her hands on her hips. For a few weeks now, Nami's been acting differently toward him. Jou couldn't place why. Whenever Jou looked in her direction, she would quickly turn away. Was she avoiding him? He hoped he didn't make her uncomfortable when he kissed her forehead after leaving Drum.
"Hey, Nami!" Mikita grinned. "Want to try some chocolate I made? From what Sanji tells me, you have quite a sweet tooth."
"Who said you can wear my clothes?" Nami told her.
"Oh..." Mikita went quiet, averting her eyes. It was true; the dress she had worn before was ruined. So she was wearing what Nami had in her wardrobe. Even Marianne wore a new outfit: a purple T-shirt, red shorts, and blue strip stockings. Mr. 5 took off his red jacket and wore a black T-shirt.
"Sorry," Mikita frowned.
"Nami, it's not like she had her own change of clothes when we brought her aboard," Jou mentioned. Nami looked at him momentarily before turning and crossing her arms.
"I suppose," Nami said. "Typically, I'd charge someone who wanted to borrow my clothes. But since Jou's right about you not having anything else to wear, I can make an exception this time."
"Uh-Th-thanks..." Mikita nodded. "I'll try to pay you back somehow."
"No need; I said it's fine this time," Nami dismissed, raising a hand.
"Also, this is a cute top," Mikita commented. "You've got good taste." This caused Nami to smile.
"I got that top for only 5,700 berri's," Nami mentioned. "After haggling, too."
"I never understood the deal with girls and clothes," Jou said. "To me, clothes are just clothes."
"It's a girl thing, ya know," Mikita grinned.
"It doesn't matter to me as long as it's clean and dry," Jou mentioned.
"Okay, I'm gonna check if anyone wants chocolate," Mikita said. "Maybe Zoro would like some."
"I doubt that," Nami shook her head. "Zoro doesn't seem very fond of sweets."
"We'll see about that," Mikita said, leaving the two alone. Jou and Nami were left at the front of the ship, watching everyone on deck. Luffy, Usopp, Carue, Chopper, and Marianne are playing tag. Much to his dismay, Mikita is trying to get Zoro to eat the chocolate, unlike Mr. 5, who is seen eating some of the chocolate.
"Looks like everyone is getting along well, huh?" Jou told Nami.
"Yeah, seems like it," Nami stated. "Guess you were right."
"Huh?" Jou wondered. "About what?"
"About them not betraying us," Nami replied.
"I guess so," Jou stated. "Unless this chocolate is poisoned. But I'm sure it isn't since she enjoys making chocolate." Jou and Nami were silent, watching the others on the deck act without a care.
"Hey, Jou?" Nami spoke.
"What's up?" Jou asked. Jou might've been imagining things, but was Nami almost fidgeting? She seemed to be like something was bothering her. Jou couldn't place what, but it may be important to ask why. "You good?"
"Yeah, it's just..." Nami paused for a moment. "I need to tell you something."
"Sure," Jou nodded. "You can tell me anything." Nami turned to Jou and approached him, taking him by the arm and gazing into her eyes. Jou didn't know what she was about to do but stayed quiet to let her say what she wanted.
"Jou, I-" Nami said but was cut off by the kitchen door opening. Vivi and Sanji came through, each carrying trays with cups of tea.
"Hey, guys!" Sanji called. "Come have some tea. Vivi says she wants to hold a meeting before we reach Alabasta."
"It's mainly to get Tony up to speed on what's happening," Vivi said, handing out tea cups.
"What is happening?" Chopper wondered.
"Yeah, you're part of the crew," Sanji told him. "You should know what we're up against."
"Yeah, guess we should join them," Jou said to Nami. "Let's go. Oh, Nami, what did you want to say?"
"Oh, nothing," Nami shook her head. "It wasn't important anyway. Let's go join the others."
"Sure..." Jou agreed but watched Nami walk ahead of him to the others. He couldn't help but wonder what she wanted to say to him. Jou hoped she might tell him later. He'll admit he was curious. Jou knew now he felt something for her and wanted desperately to know what she wanted to say to him. Maybe she'll say when she is ready.
No POV
The crew and the former agents gathered to discuss Alabasta and Baroque Works. The purpose was mainly to tell Chopper what he'd been roped into since he was the newest addition to their crew. Everyone was gathered around, sipping cups of tea brought out by Sanji while holding their meeting.
"So, what is Alabasta then?" Chopper wondered.
"Alabasta is where Vivi is from," Jou mentioned.
"It's the country where Vivi's father rules," Nami added.
"Yeah, except there's this guy named Crocodile who's trying to take over the country right now," Usopp stated.
"Yeah, and Crocodile's one of the 7 Warlords of the Sea," Sanji said.
"Who are those guys?" Chopper questioned.
"They're pirates like us, but different," Jou commented.
"Yeah," Nami nodded. "They are Pirates given authority by the World Government."
"Still insane to learn we've been working for a Warlord this whole time," Mr. 5 remarked.
"I know," Mikita agreed.
"The Government actually supports pirates?" Chopper asked.
"Yeah, pretty weird, huh?" Usopp said. "And the 7 Warlords are incredibly powerful. You see, they go around defeating other pirates one by one. And that's why the Government supports the Warlords. The idea is to have all pirates get rid of all the other pirates."
"I'm really looking forward to meeting this Crocodile guy!" Luffy exclaimed excitedly.
"Crocodile is considered a hero back home," Vivi explained. "He helps get rid of the pirates who attack Alabasta. However, those good deeds only appear good on the surface. He is an evil man. In truth, he is manipulating the citizens of Alabasta to bring about a civil war. So he can take over the country. No one realized what Crocodile's doing yet." Vivi gritted her teeth. "Not the people, not even my father!"
"Right!" Luffy punched his fist in his palm. "Well, this should be fun. All we have to do is beat up that Crocodile guy!"
"Yes, but in order to do that, we have to avert the civil war in Alabasta and get Baroque Works out of the picture," Vivi announced.
"Baroque Works?" Chopper wondered.
"Oh yeah, you don't know anything about them either," Usopp scratched his head. "To be honest, I don't understand what's going on with them myself. They have a really complicated system of agents, bosses, and partners."
"How about we let the people who were part of Baroque Works explain this one?" Jou gestured to Mikita, Marianne, and Mr. 5.
"Let me," Mikita nodded. "The system isn't as complicated as you think. First, at the top of Baroque Works is the Boss, Mr. 0, aka 'Sir Crocodile.' We knew him as Mr. 0. There are a total of 13 agents and an animal who receive orders from the boss directly. 12 male agents operate as part of a pair with a female agent.
"Wait a minute..." Zoro interjected. "You said 13 agents, yet one doesn't have a partner."
"Ah, yes..." Vivi said. "There are two agents that don't have a female partner, and one of them is Mr. 00."
"Mr. 00?" Sanji wondered.
"Yep," Mikita nodded. "In Baroque Works, he's the boss's chief enforcer."
"You mentioned him before..." Jou said. "Isn't he the agent that's sent to kill you once you fail a mission?"
"That's right," Mikita mentioned. "If an agent fails a mission more than once, Double Zero is sent after them. That would have happened if you didn't take us from Little Garden."
"You only hear stories about him," Mr. 5 mentioned. "Heard he completely wipes out anything in his path. Don't matter if you're a pirate, a marine, or a bounty hunter. Nothing survives an encounter with him. I wouldn't want to be stuck in a room with him."
"Well, doesn't he sound like a sweet bundle of joy..." Jou smirked.
"Don't take him lightly," Vivi claimed. "I've heard things about him, too, during my infiltration. Not much, though. He's a Devil Fruit user. Though I don't know what it is. Now, let's explain some of the officer agents that have partners. Mr. 1 is paired with Miss Double Finger. Mr. 2 is another agent that also doesn't have a partner."
"Mr. 3 is the candle man we ran into at Little Garden, right?" Zoro asked.
"Oh, right," Usopp nodded. "And Mr. 3 was Marianne's partner."
"Yep, sure was," Marianne said after sipping her tea.
"Mr. 4 is next in line," Vivi added. "He's paired with Miss Merry Christmas. I don't know much more than that about those two, though."
"Believe it or not, many of us never met each other," Mr. 5 noted.
"Then next up is you," Luffy pointed at Mr. 5. "By the way, what's even your name?"
"Yeah, Marianne and Mikita already told us their names," Jou declared. "I guess you should do the same."
"Gem," Mr. 5 said with a shrug.
"Gem?" Jou wondered.
"Yeah, that's my name," he said. "What of it?"
"I don't know?" Jou tilted his head. "It doesn't seem to suit you."
"Whatever," Gem said, waving his hand.
"Oh, you guys aren't part of their crew?" Chopper asked the three former agents.
"We kinda tried to kill them," Mikita stated.
"Tried to kill them?!" Chopper questioned.
"Yes, they were our enemies before," Vivi declared. "But they've helped us out so far."
"Happy to help!" Mikita grinned. "Now, back to Baroque Works, agents with codenames 1 through 5 are known as officer agents. All have Devil Fruit powers, and they are only sent on the most critical missions. Agents Mr. 6 and Mr. 13 handle the fundraising, making money for the organization, and whatnot by heading up the employees at the entrance of the Grand Line."
"Hey, what about that weird monkey and chicken pair I ran into?" Sanji asked.
"That's Mr. 13 and Miss Friday," Mikita mentioned. "They act as a punishment squad. They punish any agent who fails to complete a mission only if Mr. 00 is busy with another assignment. Under the officers are 200 men called Billions and another 18 men under the frontier agents called Millions. There you have it. That's the crime syndicate, Baroque Works."
"200 plus 1800 equals, uh...?" Usopp counted with his fingers.
"There are 2,000 of them?!" Chopper exclaimed.
"2000?!" Usopp cried.
"Alright!" Luffy said, pumping his fist. "When are we gonna get to Alabasta so I can beat up Crocodile?!"
"Uh, I don't think you get at all, Luffy," Usopp frowned.
"If Baroque Works' sole objective is to take over Alabasta, then I can guess what that must mean..." Zoro grinned.
"The rest of the officer agents, as you called them, and their subordinates are probably..." Sanji said.
"On their way to Alabasta as we speak," Jou and Nami finished.
"Yeah," Vivi nodded in confirmation.
"I see," Luffy said. "So, in that case, we just go beat up Crocodile and then-"
"That's enough, Luffy!" Sanji snapped. "Just let it go."
"Okay," Luffy said as he calmed down.
Nami POV
She tried to tell him. Nami was about to tell Jou how she felt about him. She wasn't the type to keep how she felt bottled up. Now that Nami knew she was in love with Jou, things felt different. Of course, whenever Nami was around him, she pretended things were normal. Nami was sure he didn't notice whenever she glanced at him. But would it be selfish of Nami to tell Jou how she felt, what they're up against, and when Vivi needs their help?
"Nami?" Nami turned to find Vivi approaching her, a look of concern on the princess's face.
"Oh, hi, Vivi," Nami greeted.
"Is everything alright?" Vivi wondered. "I'm sure you aren't feeling ill anymore? Chopper says the sickness from your body is entirely gone."
"Oh, yeah, it is," Nami smiled. "Thanks for the concern. But... it's not that."
"Hmm?" Vivi blinked her eyes.
"Vivi, can I talk to you in private?" Nami told her.
"Oh, of course," Vivi smiled. Nami led her down to her room, letting Vivi enter first. "So, what did you want to talk about?" Vivi said, taking a seat on the couch. Nami didn't know where to begin. Vivi had so many other things on her mind than trivial things like this.
"Vivi, we're friends, right?"
"Of course, Nami," Vivi said. "Now tell me what's wrong?" Nami folded her arms, walking to her desk. Vivi was waiting in anticipation for what Nami was going to say. Nami thought she should just come out and say it.
"I'm in love with Jou," Nami announced with a sigh. Nami wondered why Vivi was so quiet. She turned to find the princess with her hands clasped over her mouth, eyes wide and glossy. "What?!"
"Oh, Nami, that's wonderful!" Vivi said in excitement. Nami, to quiet down the princess, put her hands on her mouth.
"Could you keep it down!" Nami told her. Vivi took Nami by the hands, almost surprising her.
"So, have you told him yet?" Vivi asked. Nami sucked on her bottom lip while shaking her head. "Why not? Why not tell Jou how you feel about him? What's the harm in it?"
"I was thinking about it, but I can't right now," Nami said. "We're trying to help you get back to your country, and I didn't want to seem selfish."
"I see," Vivi nodded. "I understand. But don't hold back on my account, okay? Just tell him when you think the time is right."
"I will, soon," Nami agreed. "Promise me you won't tell anyone, Vivi."
"I promise," Vivi smiled. "It would be more fun if you told him yourself."
Nami figured Vivi was right. What reason did she have to wait to tell Jou how she felt? With Jou nearly dying, Nami knew she wanted to tell him soon. Vivi seemed not to have a problem with it and ultimately encouraged it. Mikita and Marianne looked at them at the top of the stairs as if there wasn't enough trouble. The two realized they had been caught and tried to retreat up the steps, but they ended up tumbling down them, falling over each other on the floor.
"A-ha!" Mikita exclaimed, jabbing a finger. "You two were having girl talk without us!"
"How long were you two up there?" Vivi demanded, hands on her hips.
"At the part she was in love," Marianne stated, pointing at Nami.
"I'm surprised," Mikita said. "I figured you and Jou were already a thing, but I guess I was wrong. What are you even waiting for?!"
"I mean-" Nami was about to say until Marianne approached her.
"Maybe I can help," she said, staring at her. "I've come up with a brand new paint. Mix bullfight red with some yellow and put it on Jou, and he'll fall in love with you the moment he sees you. I've been thinking of calling this 'Passion Pink.'"
"No way!" Vivi told her. "We can't do that. That sounds pretty manipulative to trick Jou into falling for Nami."
"Oh, okay," Marianne shrugged. "It probably won't work anyway if the person already has feelings for the person they see."
"That's the thing..." Nami said. "I don't know if he feels the same."
"You wanna if he's into you, too?" Mikita asked with a sly grin.
"I mean, I guess..." Nami figured.
"Come here," Mikita dragged Nami out of earshot from Vivi and Marianne. Mikita started whispering her suggestion in Nami's ear. The suggestion from her was way too seductive even to try. What she said caused Nami's face to redden, shoving the woman from her.
"I couldn't do that!" Nami told her. "Not now, at least..."
"What did she tell you?" Marianne questioned.
"It's a secret!" Mikita laughed.
"Look, no matter what she said..." Vivi said. "Nami, you should just be honest with Jou and tell him—now, later, whenever you think it's right."
"Right," Nami agreed. Nami was a bit grateful the other girls were trying to help her with this. But Nami knew she had to be forward and upfront with how she felt about Jou to him. Nami hoped she wasn't about to embarrass herself when she told him. He may have felt the same way, so it would be best to let him know soon.
No POV
Aboard the ship, they were running out of food. Luffy, Usopp, and Chopper have been fishing for the past few days but have had no luck catching anything. Behind them, Jou, Carue, and Gem played cards, and Zoro was napping against the mast.
"Okay..." Jou said to the two. "Now." They set their cards down as Jou slumped over with a groan. "I lost again..."
"Damn, you are so bad at poker," Gem commented.
"Shut up!" Jou shouted with shark teeth. "No, I'm not!"
"The duck here has had the best hand for the 5th time in a row..." Gem pointed at Carue. "With you having the worst for every hand we played." Carue lets out a few quacks.
"Carue says even when Jou was the one to cut the cards, he still lost," Chopper translated.
"Yep, Jou loses every time he plays," Usopp agreed, still focused on fishing. "It's kinda embarrassing at this point."
"Yeah, yeah..." Jou said, standing up from where he sat. "So, you guys still haven't had a bite all day, huh?"
"Nope," Luffy shook his head. "The fish aren't biting at all."
"Hmm?" Jou wondered, folding his arms. "We are almost out of food, so we might have to dive in now." Jou took his hat and removed his shirt. "Hey, Zoro. You wanna catch fish with me?" The swordsman cracked an eye open.
"I guess," Zoro shrugged, standing up. "Seeing as these three haven't caught a thing in days, it couldn't hurt." Zoro removed his shirt. "You gonna use your chains underwater?"
"Nah," Jou replied. "I'm gonna use one of my knives." He lifted a knife from his holster, putting the knife in his teeth. "Let's do it." Jou and Zoro dove off the Going Merry, each splashing into the ocean. Nami, Vivi, Mikita, and Marianne came out onto the deck.
"What's going on?" Nami wondered.
"Did someone go overboard?" Vivi asked.
"Jou and Zoro went to get us food," Luffy mentioned.
"You guys still haven't caught anything?" Mikita questioned, a hand on her hip.
"We've been trying," Chopper shook his head. "But haven't been getting any bites."
"At least this means we'll be eating soon," Luffy said.
"This time, don't eat it all, Luffy," Usopp told him.
"You ate some, too!" Luffy rebuked.
"I only ate a little bit," Usopp said. "Even Chopper had some."
"Hey!" Chopper exclaimed. "I didn't have that much. Not as much as you, two!" At this moment, Jou and Zoro emerged from the water, climbing back onto the Merry. Jou held a few decently sized fish in his hand while Zoro managed to find a considerable tuna over his shoulder. Zoro held Wado Ichimonji as Jou put his knife back in his holster, each with water dripping off their bodies. Nami and Mikitia's eyes were wide when they saw the two men. Mikita was practically drooling at the sight of them.
"I gotta get me one of those..." Mikita said, biting her lip. Nami's attention was mainly on Jou. Her eyes stopped on the bite marks still visible in his left shoulder.
"Hey, guys," Jou greeted, moving his wet hair back. "We got some food." He handed the fish to Usopp. "Make sure Sanji gets these."
"I'll do it!" Luffy quickly took all the fish and ran to the kitchen. "Sanji, we got fish! Can you cook 'em!"
After a few days of sailing, the food collected didn't last long since it wasn't much. Sanji was checking to see what else they had for supplies. Luffy and Usopp continued attempting to fish. Just ahead of them, a cloud of steam billowed over the ocean, which caused Vivi some worry. Eventually, Vivi grabbed Nami to find out what it was.
"There's nothing to worry about," Nami told her. "It's just a little steam. It's called a Hotspot."
"What's a Hotspot?" Luffy wondered.
"An area of the sea where Magma's made," Nami explained. "Below the sea there is an undersea volcano."
"There's a volcano underneath the sea?" Chopper asked.
"Yep!" Nami nodded. "In fact, there are actually more volcanoes under the sea than there are on dry land."
"So I guess we can't eat the steam then, huh?" Luffy whined.
"No, captain," Jou answered. "You can't eat the steam."
"There will be a brand new island over there," Nami smiled. "Thanks to the volcano. But the process will take tons of thousands of years."
"I wonder if I can live that long?" Luffy wondered.
"I plan on dying sometime before that," Usopp said. The Going Merry sailed into the steam. The smell caused everyone to cough from the terrible smell wafting in the air.
"Damn, that's quite a smell!" Gem exclaimed.
"Right?!" Usopp agreed. "It smells like sulfur.
"I can't see anything!" Luffy choked. "There's steam everywhere!"
"Just bear with it!" Nami coughed. "We should be out soon."
Everyone was relieved once they were out of the steam. Once it cleared, Luffy and Usopp finally felt something on their hooks. But what they pulled wasn't any fish, but... man? The man's outfit was a swan theme: a pink undercoat and blue medieval clothes, and his face was caked in heavy makeup. At first glance, anyone would believe he was dressed like a ballerina. One hook was caught on the man's collar and the other on his coattail.
"Uh, hello~!" the man greeted with a smile.
"What is that...? Luffy wondered.
"Um, a man...? Or a woman...?" Jou blinked. "You know, I'm not sure." The person fell back into the water with a splash. He flailed and splashed about, trying to keep his head above the surface.
"AAAH!" he screamed. You have to help me, please! You have to get me outta here! I can't swim!" The man sank underwater, and the others saw the air bubbles as he dropped below the ocean. They eventually fished the man, his outfit drenched while he tried to catch his breath.
"I thought I was going to die there for a minute?" He breathed. "Hey! You saved me! Thanks! I never imagined my life would be saved by a group of complete strangers. Thanks again!" He bowed numerous times. "I'll never forget your kindness. Although, could I trouble you for a cup of warm soup? Chicken noodle will do."
"NO WAY!" the crew shouted.
"We can't even feed ourselves!" Zoro exclaimed. The man noticed Vivi on the upper deck, looking down at him.
"Oh, hey~!" he winked. "You're just an absolute cutie, aren't ya? Oh, yeah! Sexy!" he blew a kiss at her, causing Vivi to grimace in disgust.
"Eww..." Vivi muttered under her breath. "So weird...!"
"So, uh..." Luffy spoke to the man. "You really can't swim, huh?"
"That's right," the man replied. "You see, I ate a Devil Fruit. I can't swim even a little bit."
"Yeah?" Usopp wondered. "What kind of fruit?" The man proudly stood, showing he was rather tall.
"Let's see...?" he claimed. "Well, since I can't go anywhere until my ship picks me up, there's no harm in a little fun. For saving my life, I'll show you." Luffy was very excited to see what kind of power the man had. "Now, get ready! This is my power!" He swung his arm wide, slapping Luffy in the face, and the straw hat captain fell on the deck. Everyone became startled at the man who'd attacked their captain. Jou and Zoro took out their respective weapons on the strange man.
"What's your problem?!" Jou growled.
"Why you...?" Zoro glared.
"Wait, wait, hold on a second..." the man said in Luffy's voice. He didn't just have Luffy's voice; he'd transformed entirely into Luffy, with the same face and body type.
"Huh?" Zoro wondered.
"...the hell?" Jou blinked his eyes.
"Hey, now guys!" the other Luffy said. "Relax!"
"Wait!" Luffy exclaimed, hopping to his feet. "That's me!"
"Fun! Fun! Fun! Fun! Fun!" the man laughed with Luffy's face and voice. "And if I touch my face with my left hand!" he changed back into himself by touching his face. "I'm back to normal! Now that is the power of the Clone-Clone Devil Fruit, you see?"
"Amazing!" Nami said in astonishment.
"The body and the voice match perfectly!" Usopp said, bewildered.
"It's crazy..." Jou commented before finding Mikita and Gem hiding beside the cabin, trying not to be seen by their new arrival. He felt someone touch his back and found Marianne hiding behind him. "What is it?" he whispered to her.
"Shhh..." Marianne shushed him silently, finger on her lips. "Later." she whispered back causing Jou to raise his brows.
"Adieu! Adieu! Adieu! Adieu!" the ballerina sang, going to each Usopp, Jou, Nami, Chopper, and Zoro's faces. "There! But honestly, I didn't really have to slap you around like that! Kay! Now watch!"
He turned into Usopp. "All I have to do..."
He turned into Zoro. "Is touch my right hand to you!"
He changed into Chopper next. "As you can see..."
He turned into Jou. "I can mimic anyone!"
Finally, he turned into Nami. "That's not all! I can even change bodies, too!" While as Nami, he took off his shirt, showing everyone the navigator's impressive chest. Usopp, Luffy and Chopper's eyes bulged out of their heads. Nami's face was red with anger, and she quickly struck the man in the face, making him revert to himself as he fell on the deck.
"STOP THAT!" Nami shouted.
"Hey, uh guy?" Luffy wondered, checking on the male ballerina. "Are you okay?"
"I-I'm terribly sorry," the man said as he sat up. "But I shouldn't demonstrate my power anymore."
"Do more!" Luffy cheered with Usopp and Chopper cheering with
"Okay~!" the man exclaimed, doing a pose. "If you absolutely insist, I guess I can show a little more!" the childish trio cheered the man on to see more of his transformations.
"He's really hamming it up, huh?" Nami commented, arms folded over her chest. The ballerina changed into a few different and unfamiliar faces. None of which everyone recognized, but one face in particular caused Vivi's eyes to widen.
"And around~! And around~! Around it goes~!" The man twirled around in a circle.
"This is boring!" Zoro complained.
"Well, did everyone enjoy my very special secret talent?" the ballerina said. "It's quite impressive, but I almost never show it off!"
"Oh yeah!" the childish trio cheered as they danced with the ballerina man.
"Fun~! Fun~! Fun~!" the ballerina danced. He grinned, skipping over to Jou, and seemed to have spotted Marianne. "How about you, my dear?"
"Uh, no..." she said, using the lookout as cover. The ballerina raised his brows, rubbing his chin.
"You seem... familiar?" he wondered. "Have we met?"
"N-No, I don't think so...?" Marianne stammered, hiding behind Jou.
"She's just nervous around new people, " Jou said. "Can you step back? You're making her uncomfortable."
"Oh, there's no need to be uncomfortable~!" the ballerina declared. "There's no reason to be afraid of little old me~! But, alas..." he returned to entertaining Luffy, Usopp, and Chopper. Nami knelt beside Marianne, putting a hand on her shoulder.
"Are you okay?" Nami wondered. "What's wrong?" Marianne just shook her head, causing Nami to raise her brows. The navigator stood up when she noticed a pink ship sailing toward them.
"What's up?" Jou wondered, following her gaze. "Who's that?"
"I dunno," Nami shook her head. The ballerina-clad man leaped onto the railing in front of Nami.
"It's time to say goodbye already!?" he said. "What a shame!"
"NO!" screamed Usopp, Chopper, and Luffy.
"You can't leave!" Usopp pleaded tears in his eyes. "Please don't go!"
"Try not to be sad!" the man remarked. "Journeys must always include farewells. And yet, I will never forget you all today." Luffy, Usopp, and Chopper were all crying. It's been brief," the ballerina choked, giving a thumbs-up. "But true friendship isn't determined by time. Don't cry, friends!" he shouted, jumping onto his own ship that sailed next to theirs.
"See ya, clone guy!" Luffy exclaimed his goodbye along with Chopper and Usopp.
"Now, quickly, let's be going!" he ordered his men.
"Yes, sir, Mr. 2! Mr. Bon Clay, sir!" shouted one of the men as they sailed away. The pirates were shocked by the revelation that they had one of their enemies on board their ship.
"Mr. 2?!" shouted Usopp.
"That guy is Mr. 2?!" Vivi exclaimed; she didn't recognize the man either.
"Vivi, are you just now going to tell us that guy was Mr. 2...?" Jou wondered.
"Uh uh, I never met Mr. 2, Mr. 00, Mr. 1, or his partner," Vivi said with a shake of her head. "I don't know much about any of them. Or what their powers may be." Vivi backed against the mast and fell to the ground. "Though, I have heard rumors about them all. I heard about Mr. 2. Apparently, he's a very tall ballerina who talks like a woman, and he always wears a swan coat. The coat says 'Bon Clay' on the back."
"You didn't know?" asked all three of Zoro, Usopp, and Luffy.
"You guys recognized him, didn't you?" Jou told Mikita and Gem, who joined everyone once Mr. 2 left.
"Yeah..." Mikita said. "We only heard of what he looks like but never met him."
"I'm just glad he didn't see us," Gem said, approaching the group.
"You knew about him, too, huh?" Jou asked Marianne. The girl gave him a nod.
"Mmhm," Marianne said. "I just didn't want him to notice me..." Marianne looked at the deck with a frown.
"Hey, Marianne, it's okay," Jou assured her, putting hands on her shoulders. "Don't worry about it. No one's blaming you."
"Yeah," Nami claimed. "It's not like you could tell us who he was. Not without revealing yourself."
"Is something wrong, Vivi?" Luffy asked the princess with concern. The princess was still seated on the deck, a worried expression on her.
"I saw something in his memory..." Vivi declared, running her hands through her blue hair. "The faces that he showed us. One of those faces belongs to my father. Cobra Nefertari. My father! The King of Alabasta!"
"That's not good," Zoro commented. "If he can remember the face of a king that easily. Mr. 2 has the potential to cause a lot of trouble."
"Looks like we let a really bad guy get away today, huh?" Usopp wondered.
"So that guy is our enemy?" Chopper asked.
"Having Mr. 2 on the other side is not good, " Nami said. "If Mr. 2 realizes that we're the ones Baroque Works is after, then he can use the memories we got earlier to transform into any one of us. We won't even be able to trust our own friends."
"Really?" Luffy questioned. "Uh...?" the straw hat captain wasn't getting it. Like. At all.
"I'll explain it again!" Nami said in exasperation
"No, hold on a sec," Zoro said, clasping Luffy's shoulder. "Luffy's slow. But he's right not to be scared. Just hear me out on this one and I think you'll agree."
"You got something in mind, Zoro?" Jou smirked in amusement.
"I got something," Zoro smirked back. "Now we can prepare. And we can beat him at his own game."
Before anything else could happen, the Going Merry began trembling, causing panic among everyone. An enormous white cat surfaces from the ocean, towering over the Going Merry.
"The thing is huge?!" Luffy exclaimed.
"A Sea Cat?!" Vivi shouted.
"IT'S A SEA MONSTER?!" Chopper screamed, and even Usopp shrieked in fear beside the doctor.
"It looks like food to me?!" Zoro called, drawing all 3 swords.
"A cat, huh?!" Jou said, flicking his wrists and grabbing his chains. "I don't care if it's a giant chicken! Let's eat it!"
"Yeah!" Luffy agreed. "Let's go!"
"We're on the right track," Nami confirmed, staring at the Log Pose.
"Food for me!" Luffy shouted. The Sea Cat soon became terrified by the three pirates leering at it like it was dinner and started moving away from the ship.
"It's backing away?!" Zoro shouted.
"Don't let it escape!" Jou exclaimed. "That could feed us for a whole month!"
"I'll get it before it gets away!" Gem called, sticking a finger in his nose.
"Reverse!" Luffy ordered. "Put the boat in reverse!"
"No!" Usopp said. "We can't do that!"
"Hey!" Sanji yelled, dashing out of the kitchen. "Don't let it get away! If the 4 of you don't capture it, I'll kill you!" Sanji got right next to Luffy, Jou, Gem, and Zoro. All 5 of them were ready to jump the frightened Sea Cat. "Now then, Sea Kitten! How do you think I should cook you!"
"NO!" Vivi shouted from behind, quickly grabbing a nearby broom and knocking all five men into the railing. The Sea Cat used Vivi's attack as a distraction to escape the others before they could assault.
"Vivi, what are you doing!?" Luffy whined. "I'm hungry!"
"Why...?" Sanji cried. "Just why? It was food?"
"What was that?!" Jou asked, rubbing his head. "Why did you hit us?!"
"Because you can't eat a Sea Cat!" Vivi mentioned. "I just can't let you! Sea Cats are sacred animals in Alabasta!"
"That's good to know," Luffy groaned, hanging over the rail.
"So don't attack the Sea Cats..." Gem sighed.
"There were more animals in the ocean than I thought," Chopper smiled.
"If you're still scared of that stuff, then you have a long way to go!" Usopp claimed, quickly standing up. "So, let me tell you about the time that I, Usopp, single-handedly fought off the Sea Kings of the Calm Belt, young Chopper!"
"Sea Kings?!" Chopper exclaimed in amazement. "Really?!"
"Big ones, too!" Usopp announced. "Man, they were really huge!"
"Our food got away!" Luffy cried while biting the rail.
"Yeah, but don't worry, Luffy..." Vivi smiled. "You'll be able to stuff yourself full really soon!"
"Yeah, really!" Luffy's mood quickly improved. "Will we get another cat to eat, Vivi?!"
"Vivi!" Nami called, making her way over to Vivi. "The wind and weather seem to be stabilizing."
"Uh, huh," Vivi nodded. "We're entering the climate area of Alabasta Island. Seeing a Sea Cat come out of the water is proof as well."
"So, I guess we're already in Alabasta then," Jou stated, folding his arms. "Perfect."
"Those things you see behind us over there," Zoro smiled. "Are all the proof I need that we're getting close." In the distance were several different ships sailing toward Alabasta.
"It's a lot of ships, huh?" Luffy commented. "Who are they?" Jou was looking through his telescope, staring at all the ships. If anyone had to guess, there must've been about a thousand vessels heading toward Alabasta.
"It's Baroque Works," Jou noticed the symbol. "They've got a whole armada over there."
"It looks as if all the Baroque works employees have started gathering," Vivi noted. "And I'm guessing that these are the billions."
"That's right," Mikita nodded. "Billions are the members ranked after officer agents."
"Means they're pulling out all stops for whatever the boss has planned," Gem added.
"Which means there are at least 200 enemies waiting for us," Nami stated.
"The best that Baroque Works has to offer," Vivi said. "The elite of the underlings. This group will surely be a lot better than the bounty hunters at Whiskey Peak."
"Yeah, those guys we fought down at Whiskey Peak were a piece of cake," Jou mentioned. "Maybe these guys might give us a run for our money," Usopp suggested using the cannon to attack the ships, but Luffy wanted to beat them up. "Not a good idea, guys."
"C'mon, they're not worth it," Zoro said. "Don't bother."
"True," Jou agreed. "It'd be a waste of energy. Besides, we need to get prepared for a real fight."
"That's right," Sanji smirked. "We need to keep our eyes on the prize or we lose this all altogether. After all, 9 against 200 sucks."
"Hey!" Mikita argued. "I'd gladly help if you guys asked me to!" Gem didn't say anything; he only folded his arms in response.
Jou POV
"Well, if Zoro's got a plan to deal with Mr. 2's abilities..." Jou turned to the former agents. "You guys think you can go into the kitchen? I think this should be between our crew."
"But..." Marianne frowned. Jou figured she was scared, knowing just how close she was to being discovered by Mr. 2.
"It's okay," Sanji assured. "I made some tea earlier. Why don't you have some?"
"Alright..." Marianne nodded at the cook. At the crew's request, the three former agents retreated to the kitchen. Next came Zoro's plan, which he devised to combat Mr. 2's Clone-Clone fruit. The straw hat crew was gathered around the deck, wrapping the bandage around their left forearm.
"Just make sure and tie it right," Zoro told everyone. "I don't want anyone fooled by the enemy's disguises."
"What a good plan," Vivi smiled, affixing a bandage on Nami's arm while having her own already on.
"We'll always know who our friends are," Nami stated. "Just look for the bandage on their arm."
"It's such a good plan; I wish I had thought of it first," Jou agreed, just finished tying his own. Beside him, Chopper was tying Luffy's around his arm.
"This Clone-Clone fruit guy?" Sanji wondered while in the middle of wrapping his bandage. "So, is it that similar when he turns into someone else?"
"You have no idea!" Usopp voiced. "It's the same not just similar! It was crazy! You should've seen it, Sanji! He changed into every one of us! Even Nami! And then we got to dance with him!"
"I'm not really interested in dancing with a male ballerina," Sanji remarked.
"You know that someone with his powers is among the enemy," Zoro noted. "So we need to be very careful to be on our guard at all times."
"So, what should I do to help against this guy?" Chopper questioned with a determined smile.
"Just do whatever it is you can do," Usopp told the doctor. "You're not expected to do anything more, Chopper. And if you get overwhelmed then just run!"
"Did he just tell Chopper it's okay to run from a fight?" Jou asked.
"Sounds like the pep talk he's always giving himself," Sanji added.
"Whatever it is I can do?" Chopper repeated to himself. "I got it." At this point, the Going Merry was close to reaching Alabasta.
"I can see the island now!" Luffy called out.
"What's the plan the second we land?" Jou asked.
"Let's stop at the town called 'Nanohana,'" Vivi suggested. "We have to hide the ship."
"Okay!" Luffy said as everyone turned to him. "No matter what happens on that island! Remember!" Luffy put his arm out. "This thing on all our arms." Everyone stood in a circle, arms together. "Is a sign of our friendship! Now, let's land, okay! AND EAT! Oh, and help Vivi."
"That's a side note," Everyone sighed at the Captain.
"Now, remember..." Nami said. "Our enemy is a whole gang of assassins."
"Uh, yeah...?" Luffy said nonchalantly. "Sure is."
"Just try to think before you do anything stupid," Nami told him. "Got that?"
"Yeah, I do," Luffy replied.
Jou noticed Vivi eyeing the wrap on her arm; she smiled and hugged herself. Jou was glad we were able to make her feel safer knowing they had a system if someone in their group was a friend or foe.
The Going Merry was close to Alabasta. Jou noticed Vivi staring longingly as they approached the country, with Carue beside her. This had been a long time coming for her; she'd returned to her homeland to hopefully save it. She wasn't alone. Vivi had the rest of them, and they'd be with her every step of the way.
"Well, we're finally here," Nami said, stepping to Vivi. "I'd ask if you're relieved, but I guess it's early to know. Do you have any plans for dealing with the rebellion?"
"Yes, I do have a plan," Vivi replied. "But I don't really know for sure how it's going to work."
Jou was glad Vivi still had hope of stopping the rebellion from attacking the Royal Army. Dealing with Crocodile and Baroque Works means they have their entire plate full, but maybe they could take things one step at a time.
"So hungry!" Luffy complained and had taken to munching on a sandal.
"So hot!" Chopper moped. His fur was likely making his body heat up. Jou couldn't blame him. He'd removed his cardigan, leaving him in his grey t-shirt and still feeling the heat from this place. Vivi did mention Alabasta was a desert country, but Jou didn't think the heat would be this extreme. After a few seconds, they docked at the island. Jou noticed a city just ahead of where they weighed anchor.
"So, this is an Alabasta city?" Usopp wondered.
"Is there food?" Luffy questioned.
"Listen carefully, guys!" Nami said. "I want you all to do your best to control yourselves while we're here." Jou turned his head, noticing their captain had immediately jumped off the Going Merry. No one else but Jou and Zoro saw him leave the ship and start running toward the city.
"You do realize the one who needs to hear that warning the most has already abandoned ship," Zoro frowned, folding his arms.
"FEED ME NOW!" Luffy screamed.
"The captain is going, going, and he's gone..." Jou remarked as Luffy got further from the city.
"GET BACK HERE!" Nami shouted from the ship, but Luffy was already long gone.
"He doesn't know the meaning of control," Usopp chimed.
"What now?" Vivi asked.
"He's easy to find," Sanji said. "Just look for the area with the commotion, and that's where he'll be."
"He's right," Usopp agreed.
"Ugh," Nami groaned. "I wish he'd at least remember that he has a bounty on that rubbery head of his. Especially when we're in a big country like this."
"This is Luffy we're talking about," Jou mentioned. "As Sanji said, look for the noise, and there's our captain. Right in the middle of it all."
"Luffy can take care of himself," Zoro said.
"I guess I should let you know," Vivi said. "Carue and I can't go with you."
"Hmm?" Nami hummed in confusion.
"What's wrong?" Usopp asked. "Don't feel up to it?"
"We'd both be way too recognizable here," Vivi said.
"Makes sense," Zoro stated.
"You are this country's princess..." Jou figured. "No shock there."
"No worries..." Sanji assured. I'll take care of all your shopping, Vivi, my love~!" Carue brought everyone's attention to him with his collection of quacks. Marianne quickly ran to his side to see what had him spooked. Jou was surprised she could understand what he was saying. Maybe it was similar to how he heard Grandpa Ryu speak when they were looking for Lost Island, but even he didn't know that was possible.
"That is his ship!" Marianne exclaimed.
"What is it, guys?" Vivi wondered, heading over to see what had spooked them. "Mr. 3's ship!" The ship that belonged to Mr. 3 was tinted purple. A vast three sat on the front bow; the sails were blue and white, the rear sail had a 'BW' on it, and 'Mr. 3' was written on the ship's left side, showing who the vessel belonged to.
"I thought we took care of that creep for good already," Usopp growled.
"It really is Mr. 3's ship," Marianne confirmed. "He's able to operate it with the use of his Devil Fruit powers."
"So, he's really here," Gem said.
"Well, this just complicates things," Mikita stated.
"That jackass knows what we all look like," Jou said, folding his arms.
"Right," Zoro agreed. "And it isn't good."
"Hey..." Mikita spoke up.
"Yes?" Vivi answered her.
"Gem and I have been talking..." Mikita mentioned. "We decided we're going to split from you guys from this city."
"Really?" Vivi wondered.
"Are you guys sure?" Usopp asked.
"Oh, Mikita?" Sanji exclaimed. "Are you leaving us so soon!"
"You sure about that?" Jou asked. "Mr. 3 could be here in place."
"I think we'll be fine," Gem stated. "We can take care of ourselves now."
"We're just passengers aboard your ship," Mikita said. "We wouldn't be here if Marianne didn't convince you to take us."
"Baroque Works could still hunt you two," Zoro mentioned. "Especially by that Mr. 00 guy."
"Then we'll just have to be extra careful," Mikita said. "And...?"
"And...?" Jou wondered. He didn't know what else they had in mind besides splitting off from this town.
"Would it be okay if you took Marianne with you guys?" Mikita suggested.
"Huh?" Marianne wondered with wide eyes.
"Why do you want her to come with us?" Vivi asked.
"Mr. 2 didn't touch her face like he touched all of ours," Jou figured. "He almost recognized her, but maybe it wouldn't be too bad if we brought her along. What do you guys think?" Jou asked the others if they were okay with taking Marianne with them.
"Maybe," Vivi said. "It could still be dangerous. We'll be traveling along the desert to reach Yuba."
"True," Nami said. "But Marianne can take care of herself. She's a smart girl. She ensured the Going Merry was safe before leaving it back on Drum Island."
"Yeah, and her paints seemed helpful when they aren't used against us," Usopp mentioned. "Except when they're used for fun."
"Guess she can come along if she can pull her weight," Zoro stated.
"Shouldn't be a problem for her," Vivi smiled. "She was Mr. 3's partner."
"Former partner now," Nami commented, putting an arm around Marianne's shoulder. Mikita walked over to Marianne and got down to her level.
"You guys are gonna be okay?" Marianne asked her.
"Just fine," Mikita smiled assuringly. "Gem and I have gotten out of pretty tight situations before. It will just be for a little while. Once Baroque Works has been resolved, we'll be together again. Sound good?"
"I uh..." Marianne said, still slightly unsure, as the other crew members smiled at her. Her gaze shifted to Jou. All Jou did was give her a nod and a smile himself. Marianne gave one back and nodded. "Then okay. I'll go with the Straw hats."
"Well, now that we're here..." Mikita figured. "I guess it's time we get going."
"This is where you guys are gonna split?" Jou wondered
"Mikita, you're leaving so soon?" Sanji wondered sadly.
"Afraid so," Mikita said. "Seems like a good time as any to get going." She looked down at Marianne again with a smile. "Don't worry. Once this is all over, we'll get back to you."
"OK, you promised," Marianne agreed.
"Try to get yourselves killed," Gem remarked. "Although you all have proven you're just too tough to kill."
"Agreed!" Mikita chuckled. "I've never met more stubborn people in my life! You showed me how far you'll go to achieve your dreams. It inspired me to want to do the same."
"I'm glad we can help," Jou said. The woman suddenly embraced Jou, surprising him. Jou didn't expect this, but she decided to hug her back. She was grateful for the help and kept them away from the Baroque Works Enforcer.
"Mikita~!" Sanji swooned. "Don't I get one, too~!" Mikita hugged Sanji next, the cook wrapping his arms around the fellow blonde.
"One for Chopper!" Mikita wrapped her arms around the reindeer, cuddling him like a teddy bear. Once Mikita put Chopper down, she raised her arms to Zoro expectantly. "C'mon, you know you want to." Zoro just stood there, his arms folded, until Mikita ran up and encircled her arms around the swordsman, who tensed up but just put an arm around her. Mikita, lastly, went to Marianne and took her hands. "We'll see each other soon. Take care of yourself."
"Yeah, you too," Marianne smiled. The two embraced before Mikita turned to the Straw hats.
"Farewell, everyone!" Mikita waved. "I'll never forget the time we had together. Good luck and take care." She and Gem jumped off the Going Merry and went their way. Marianne watched them go silently with a frown. Jou approached her from behind, clasping a hand on her shoulder.
"Don't worry, you'll see them again soon," Jou said.
"Yeah," Nami agreed. "You'll be okay with us. We should give her one of these, too." Nami raised her left arm with the bandage on it.
"Yeah, she'll be with us temporarily," Jou nodded. "It can't hurt to be prepared." Chopper started tying Marianne's bandage to her left forearm.
"There you go," Chopper stated. "All done."
"Think of it like a sign of friendship," Jou stated. "We just gotta slip through town." Usopp let out a confident chuckle, giving a thumbs up.
"Usopp has a plan," Usopp grinned. "It's gonna be alright."
The fantastic idea from Usopp involved nearly everyone getting under a sizeable grey blanket as they made their way through the city. The only ones not underneath were their cook and doctor. Chopper followed along in his Walk Point. Soon, they made it to the other side of the city and threw the blanket off them.
"Looks like it's safe to come out, guys!" Usopp said.
"Thanks, we figured that one out!" Zoro exclaimed.
"Look like my ingenious disguise worked like a charm," Usopp said proudly.
"I wouldn't call it ingenious," Jou frowned. To combat Alabasta's bright sun, Jou wore sunglasses that he adjusted over his eyes.
"Me neither," Nami agreed.
"Well, then..." Sanji claimed. "It looks like you'll be safe from prying eyes for a while, my dear," Sanji told Vivi, but the princess was lost in thought. "Hello there?"
"Oh, yes!" Vivi answered. "Sanji, what were you saying?"
"What is it, Vivi?" Sanji wondered. "Is something wrong?"
"Sorry for that," Vivi said. "But, I'm just really relieved now. If nothing else, from what I've seen so far, I know that this town is doing alright. I can't exactly start resting easy. But it's a good sign."
"It does seem like it's a really peaceful town," Nami noticed.
"Vivi...?" Zoro said. "You said you had a plan for stopping the Rebel Army, didn't you?" Vivi looked at Zoro, giving a nod.
"We're all behind you, Vivi," Jou assured her. "What would you like us to do to help you?"
"If you really want to stop this before it starts, it's better to act quickly," Zoro said.
"Well, I agree with that," Vivi stated. "But the only agreement I made was for you to bring me to Alabasta..."
BONK!
Vivi was met with a punch in the forehead from Nami.
"Quit it!" Nami told her. "Are you still thinking like that?!"
"Nami!" Vivi whined, nursing her head.
"We've traveled this far together after all," Nami mentioned. "We're not gonna run away and leave you now."
"Yeah, Vivi, c'mon..." Usopp said. "You're practically one of us now." Jou folded his arms with a smile. With how long she's been with them, Vivi, despite being a princess of a country, was a member of their crew. She was one of them, no matter what happens, they weren't gonna leave her alone with this.
"Like it or not, Vivi," Jou smirked. "You're stuck with us now."
"I wanna see this Warlord of the Sea," Zoro claimed.
"You don't need to bring that up!" Nami scowled at the swordsman, then turned to Vivi. "Now, listen? We're not going to abandon you!"
"They're trying to kill us, too," Sanji added. "Well, everyone except for me."
"Yes, but..." Vivi said.
"It's settled then!" Sanji smiled.
"Besides, if this country gets destroyed, then we'll be out a big reward for bringing you here in the first place," Nami mentioned, her hair shadowing her eyes. "You understand?"
"Uh, yes," Vivi gulped.
"Okay, good!" Nami chirped.
Oh boy, Jou thought. He still wondered how he fell for the greediest person he knew. But it's not like he could change her. Before they started out, Jou couldn't stand how greedy Nami was. But now, Jou knew that was just one side of her. He'd rather adore her caring and compassionate side. It was obvious she cared about Vivi. Why else would she want to help Vivi and her country?
"You're such a good friend," Zoro scowled.
"Thank you, Zoro!" Nami said. "I haven't forgotten about your debt to me either! Even as a ghost, I'd still haunt you for my money."
"You lousy-!?" Zoro shouted.
"You better pay me those 400,000,000 Berri's!" Nami grinned.
"What!?" Zoro shouted in disbelief. "It went up!"
"It'll go even higher if you don't pay me quickly!" Nami added.
"Jou, can you talk some sense into this woman for me!" Zoro said.
"Zoro..." Jou groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I warned you back in Loguetown that this exact thing would happen! And you borrowed money from her anyway!"
"You've gotta be kidding me!" Zoro groaned. "Usopp?!"
"No way!" Usopp shook his head.
Jou noticed Vivi watching the other talk to each other. Jou gave the princess a reassuring smile. The princess returned the gesture before looking away. They would all be there for her, and she wouldn't do it alone.
"Thank you," Vivi said.
Vivi went on to explain her current plan while in Alabasta. It's good to know that Vivi had an idea for how she wanted to stop Crocodile's plan.
"A little north of here is an oasis called 'Yuba,'" Vivi mentioned. "There's where the Rebel army is based at the moment. I'd like to go there first in order to head off the rebellion. In order to get to Yuba, we're going to cross through the desert first. We'll need all the necessary supplies to make it. We can find everything we need easily here in this town. But Mr. 3 is out there somewhere waiting for us."
"If that guy is the only obstacle, we shouldn't have a problem," Sanji grinned. "He's never seen my face before."
"Yeah, you haven't really run into any of the Baroque Works agents so far," Nami told the cook.
"Not only Sanji..." Jou brought up. "They've also never seen our newest member." Jou gestured his head toward their doctor.
"That's right, Chopper!" Nami nodded.
"That'll be perfect," Sanji agreed. "We're going to have a lot to carry. That all right?"
"Yeah," Chopper agreed. "I got it."
"Are you sure you'll be okay?" Usopp asked in concern.
"Yeah, I'm sure," Chopper said. "I wanna do whatever I can to help out." Chopper switched to his Walk Point. "I should blend in fine like this, shouldn't I...?"
"Alright!" Usopp said, giving a thumbs up. "Now that's what I call a brave reindeer!"
"Okay, you know what?" Jou spoke. "I'm going, too."
"What?!" Vivi exclaimed. "Jou, you can't go! They know what you look like!"
"Yeah, and other than Luffy, you have a bounty," Nami added.
"It'll be fine," Jou claimed. "I'm not gonna make a scene like our captain. Here, check this out." Jou removed his hat, stuffing it in his pocket. "I know how to not attract attention to myself." Jou adjusted the shades over his eyes.
"Guess the extra hands couldn't hurt," Sanji figured.
"I really appreciate your help," Vivi smiled.
"Just leave it to us," Sanji said.
"I made a list of everything we need," Vivi stated. "Oh, and we'll need some clothes, too. Normal clothes so we don't stand out."
"Okay, is there anything else anyone needs before we go?" Jou asked. "I'll add it to the list."
"Perfume!" Nami suggested.
"Of course, Nami~!" Sanji exclaimed.
"Perfume?" Jou wondered. "What for?"
"Nothing wrong with wanting to smell good," Nami smiled. "Plus, it's from a foreign country. So it's probably authentic."
"Food and water!" Zoro put forward.
"And tobasco!" Usopp chimed.
"Hold on, let me write this down..." Jou said. He realized he had nothing to write with until Marianne handed him a pencil. "You always have that on you?"
"Yep," Marianne nodded. "I mainly paint, but I like to sketch sometimes, too."
"Okay," Jou said. "Perfume, food, and water, tobacco." Jou jotted the suggestions from the others. "Guess that's that. We'll be back soon."
"And keep an eye out for Luffy," Nami stated.
"We'll try to find him," Jou stated. "Luckily, we'll spot him at a food vendor or a restaurant."
Jou, Sanji, and Chopper went into the city for their mini-shopping trip. Jou liked the atmosphere so far. It was just people living and going about their day, haggling with shopkeepers for prices, people balancing jugs on their heads, and women dressed in colorful dancer outfits. It seemed like a peaceful place. Jou figured it was too peaceful because, with how loud his captain was, he'd be causing a commotion.
With his arms folded, Jou looked at the crowd through his sunglasses. Chopper was standing beside him while Sanji was speaking with a meat vendor. Sanji picked up one of the sticks with a few pieces of meat skewered. With a grin, he held it out to Chopper.
"It's venison," Sanji remarked. Chopper's eyes went wide, and he quickly shook his head. Jou moved his shades down to glare at the cook.
"Sanji, don't do that," Jou said.
"Yeah, yeah..." Sanji dismissed but grinned, looking around. "That's what's great about traveling around. They have all sorts of interesting ingredients you can try." Jou turned to Chopper, the doctor's nose twitching, and he probably smelled something in the air. Due to being part animal, his sense of smell is heightened.
"What's up, Chopper?" Jou wondered.
"There's a strange scent mixed in the smell of the food," Chopper stated.
"In what way?" Sanji asked, sniffing the smell himself. "Oh, what you're smelling is just perfume."
"Perfume?" Chopper questioned.
"Yeah, that shop over there sells it," Sanji said.
"Alright, we can get Nami's perfume there," Jou figured.
"I just don't like that smell at all..." Chopper whined. "Can we get out of here?" Jou knelt in front of Chopper.
"Look, I know it isn't pleasant to you," Jou told him. "Just bear with it a little longer, okay? Hopefully, we'll finish the shopping, find Luffy, and link back up with the others soon."
"Alright," Chopper nodded.
"Right, Sanji," Jou looked up only to find the cook gone. "Sanji?"
"Hello, my darling, your outfit is ravishing..."
Jou stood and spotted Sanji standing beside two dancing girls. He held the hands of one of them wearing a purple dancer outfit, leaning close to her. Jou sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. Of course, he would do something like this. Jou looked at Chopper, who was also not amused by Sanji's advances on the poor girl and smiled.
"Watch this..." Jou told him. "I'm about to ruin his chances."
"But nothing in the world can possibly compare to your amazing eyes and your beautiful smile..." Sanji said, the girl looking uncomfortable through the whole thing. The other dancer girl wearing a green dancer outfit was not enjoying the show Sanji put on. "What do you think we could go somewhere..." Jou clapped a hand on Sanji's shoulder, stopping this.
"Oh, Romey, I was wondering where you disappeared to..." Jou said, putting himself between the dancer and him. "Sorry about my pal here. We're tourists, and we don't see a lot of outfits like that."
"Oh, it's fine," the girl replied. "Many male tourists get excited when they see dancing girls."
"I'm Vic, and this is my friend Tony," Jou gestured to Chopper. The girls smiled and approached the reindeer.
"Oh, is he your pet?" the one in purple asked. "Can I pet him?"
"Me too!" the other in green said.
"I don't call him a pet," Jou mentioned. "He's a loyal friend." Jou smiled at Chopper. Chopper returned the smile, but it faded as the girls knelt to softly pet Chopper, gushing about how soft his fur was. Chopper stayed still and quiet from the affection. Jou looked at Sanji, the cook, furious that his attempts to pursue one of the girls had been interrupted. Once they were finished, the purple girl handed Jou a piece of paper.
"Here, take this," she said. "It's the place where we dance. You should stop by sometime."
"We'll be sure to check it out," Jou smiled, waving them off. "You two have a good day now."
"Bye~!" Each of them waved bye and left down the street. Jou turned to Chopper, lifting his glasses.
"Thanks for playing along, Chopper," Jou nodded. "I know you don't like being called a 'pet,' but hey, girls like soft things."
"It's fine," Chopper nodded.
"What's your problem?" Sanji told Jou. "I was getting somewhere with that beauty."
"Oh, yeah, sure..." Jou remarked. "She was so charmed by you."
"Did you call me 'Romey'?" Sanji questioned.
"You know, 'Romeo,'" Jou shrugged. "Now..." Jou put his glasses back on. "Back to shopping." Jou tossed the paper the girl handed away before Sanji struggled to snatch it before getting it.
"What do you think you're doing?!" Sanji exclaimed. "Don't get rid of it!"
"It doesn't matter," Jou claimed. "We're never coming back here."
"Well, it doesn't hurt to have something to return to," Sanji said, putting the paper in his pocket. Jou rolled his eyes behind the shades.
"If you say so, pal..." Jou said. "Anyway, let's split up. Since you're the cook, you should find food. I'll go get clothing."
"Oh, I was thinking..." Sanji voiced. "How about you and Chopper gather food, and I'll find clothes." Jou blinked his eyes, thinking Sanji had a hidden agenda behind his smile. Jou figured he should go ahead and trust the cook and shrugged.
"Fine," Jou said.
"Good," Sanji quickly ran off rather excitedly.
"That guy is an idiot," Jou mumbled.
"Yep," Chopper agreed.
"Alright, since the perfume shop's up there..." Jou pointed. "I'll just get Nami's perfume now. Since you don't like the smell, wait out here, Chopper. I won't be long."
"Okay," Chopper nodded. Just as Jou said, buying the perfume was quick. Once Jou left the shop, he found that Chopper was gone.
"Chopper...?" Jou wondered. "Where did he get off to?" While Jou walked around town looking for Chopper, he completed his side of the shopping and purchased the food and water for their trip across the desert. He still wanted to find Chopper, hoping nothing terrible happened to him. Jou lugged around the sacks of meat and containers of water while looking around for the doctor.
"Jou...?" Jou turned and found Sanji holding a few hefty-looking sacks, likely filled with clothes.
"Sanji?" Jou approached.
"What are you doing?" Sanji asked.
"I'm looking for Chopper," Jou stated. "He disappeared somewhere."
"Well, he can't have gone far," Sanji said. "Come on, let's go look for him."
Jou and Sanji searched Chopper until they eventually found the reindeer. They secured some supplies onto Chopper's back and returned to others. Jou figured the shopping went well without problems. Things might be okay from here on out.
Rana POV
Rana arrived in Nanohana with Captain Smoker and Tashigi. The Alabasta country was hot. Rana had discarded her purple vest, leaving her in her white T-shirt. She wore a bright blue shemagh around her shoulders and sunglasses with yellow lenses. She was surprised at how many pirates there were in this place. But these small fry they came across aren't the goal. They were here looking for the Straw hats. Rana knew she was close to finding Jou.
According to that transmission, the Straw hats may be here in Alabasta, but they didn't know how to find them. She could ask around; she currently had Jou's wanted poster. Rana sighed, leaning on the wall and moving her hands behind her head. Walking past her were two dancing girls, one wearing a purple outfit and the other in green.
"What sort of animal did you think Tony was?" the girl in purple wondered.
"I'm not sure," the girl in green answered. "Maybe a deer; he did have antlers. He was cute for a deer, and his fur was so soft."
"Vic was kinda cute," the girl in purple commented. "He seemed nice and easy-going. Think he'll come visit to watch us dance?"
"Maybe," the girl in green said. "I knew what you were up to giving him that paper." The girl in purple giggled. "Why did he wear chains on his wrists?"
"I don't know," the girl in purple shrugged. "Maybe he has a unique fashion sense." It was clear to Rana now. Using the name Vic and chains on the wrists. Rana figured now was the time to get information and walked to approach the two girls.
"Excuse me, ladies..." Rana said. "If I can get a few moments of your time. It won't take long. How long ago did you see this 'Vic'?"
"Not too long ago," the girl in purple mentioned. "Do you know him?."
"I might," Rana folded her arms. "You said he wore chains on his wrists. Did he wear two chains? Did one of them happen to be red?"
"I think so," the girl replied.
"Right," Rana nodded. "Did he happen to look this?" Rana pulled out the wanted poster and unfurled it. The girl in purple took it and looked at it with her friend.
"Yeah, that's him," she said. "Kusari Jou? Didn't know he was a wanted man?"
"You always had a thing for bad boys," the girl in green said.
"Well, if either of you see him..." Rana took back the poster. "Make sure you report him. Thank you for your time, girls." Rana started walking from the two.
"Wait!" the girl in purple called Rana, stopping in her tracks. "Is he really that dangerous?" Rana turned her head, moving her glasses down.
"That's what I'm here to find out," Rana said, continuing down the street. With this new information, Rana had to report back to Captain Smoker. This let her know the Straw Hat crew was here, which means she was close to finding Jou.
No POV
Jou, Sanji, and Chopper returned with the supplies everyone requested. Sanji handed out different clothes to everyone. The guys were wearing desert robes and hoods to cover up from the desert. Jou currently wore a light grey desert robe with dark red edges; on the back is a half sun and moon symbol in a dark red color; over his shoulders, he wore a dark-red shemagh; he wasn't wearing it yet while it was draped around his shoulders. To combat the heat of Alabasta's searing sun, he had torn off the sleeves of his grey t-shirt.
Nami and Vivi, however, were wearing...
"Wow, this is beautiful!" Nami smiled. Both Nami and the princess were dressed like dancer girls. Nami wore a blue and purple halter top with a pink shroud and a long white skirt, with the top part blue. Her hair was tied up in the back, a single bang hanging down the left side of her face, gold earrings, matching gold bracelets on her arms, and a gold necklace. "Yeah, love it!"
"Well..." Vivi said, a shy blush covering her cheeks. Vivi wore a blue and pink top, a long skirt, a white cover-up, blue wedge sandals, a gold necklace with red gems, and a gold armband on her right forearm. "I know I asked you to pick out some clothes for us, but these are meant for dancer girls."
"Oh, Vivi~!" Sanji sighed. "You're a vision~!" The cook wore white desert robes under a sky blue jacket with a dark blue hood and red sun symbol on each bicep.
"But commoners wouldn't wear this?" Vivi explained.
"But aren't dancers common~?" Sanji replied.
"We're crossing a desert!" Vivi argued.
"Hey, don't worry~!" Sanji declared. "If you get tired, my darling, I'll just carry you~!"
"This is pointless..." Vivi frowned, turning away from the cook. "Jou?"
"Hmm?" Jou wondered, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed.
"Why didn't you try to stop Sanji getting us these?" Vivi said, gesturing to Nami, still admiring her outfit. Marianne wore a yellow shemagh wrapped over her pink hat, a green desert cloak, her pink backpack, and a gold bracelet on her left wrist. The young artist stood still, staring at Nami, her gaze on the navigator's chest and looking at her own with a frown.
"He ran away and told me to take care of getting the food," Jou said. "I didn't know he would run off and buy those." He stared at the cook. "I bet you're happy, huh, Sanji?"
"I sure am!" Sanji grinned. "Thanks for trusting me to pick out the clothes, especially for the ladies." He turned to Zoro and Usopp. "As for you guys, you just look like sloppy bandits."
"You might wanna look in a mirror?" Zoro muttered through a piece of meat he was eating. The swordsman wore an orange keffiyeh with a gold chain on his head, a long-sleeved white coat with black lines all over it, and the bottom of his black pants were torn above the ankles. Beside him was Usopp, wearing a brown keffiyeh under his goggles and a dull red and black striped desert cloak.
"By the way, Chopper...?" Jou looked at the doctor. "Where did you go while in town? I left you alone for a moment, and then you were gone?" The doctor lay down on the sand, trying to block his nose.
"Yeah, where did you run off to?" Sanji wondered.
"Just somewhere," Chopper uttered out.
"Is he not feeling well?" Nami asked.
"Yeah," Sanji nodded. "It's just the perfume. Chopper can't stand it."
"Perfume?" Nami wondered.
"Oh yeah?" Vivi said. "Tony has a very sensitive nose."
"This stuff?" Nami questioned, sniffing her arm.
"Some of it does have a really strong smell," Vivi commented.
"Oh~!" Nami mouthed pleasingly, spraying herself with the perfume.
"AAAAAGH!" Chopper screamed, quickly sitting up, still clasping his nose.
"That's not funny," Jou told Nami. "I'm starting to regret buying it."
"But you bought it anyway," Nami smirked at him. "How did you decide to buy this one?"
"I didn't," Jou shrugged. "I just bought the first one I saw."
"Still, you made a good choice," Nami smiled.
"Wait a minute?" Jou said, suddenly getting into Nami's personal space, almost in her face. Nami's face went red from Jou's proximity. She didn't move and soon raised her brows when he started sniffing and put a hand in his face, shoving him away out of her personal space.
"W-What?!" Nami exclaimed as Jou gently moved her hand.
"Let me see that bottle," Jou told her. Nami handed him the perfume, and he stared at it, finally noticing the label.
"Citris," Jou read aloud. "That makes sense, considering tangerines are your favorite."
"Yeah, that's why I said you made a good choice," Nami said. Jou sprayed some on his hand before giving her back the bottle. He knelt beside Chopper and put his hand beside Chopper's nose.
"Chopper, focus on this smell in my hand," Jou insisted. Chopper sniffed Jou's hand and opened his eyes. He gave a few more whiffs and seemed to be becoming accustomed to it.
"Hey, this one doesn't smell that bad," Chopper stated.
"See?" Jou said. "Before, you were smelling all the perfume at once, which was why it overloaded your sense of smell."
"Well, at least we know this won't bother Chopper anymore," Nami noted, doing another spritz of the perfume, causing Sanji to go heart-eyed again.
"You smell like an angel in a field of flowers~!" Sanji swooned.
"You're an idiot," Zoro muttered to the cook. Sanji growled in irritation at the swordsman.
"At any rate..." Usopp spoke. "At least we gathered all the necessary supplies we need to cross the desert."
"Yep," Jou agreed, putting a hand on his hip. "Looks like we're somewhat prepared. You mentioned that we're heading to an oasis?"
"It's called Yuba, right?" Nami asked.
"Yes, that's correct," Vivi declared. "But first, we'll have to travel through the desert. That trip will most likely be more difficult than any of you can imagine. There's no telling what might happen out there. One wrong step at any moment in a desert land like this one, and there's no guarantee that we'll all survive. I'm still a little reluctant about asking you to follow me in such a dangerous place—more than anything. I want to bring peace back to Alabasta Kingdom. So I guess... I guess I don't really have any choice but to ask!" Vivi brought up her head, her eyes bright with determination. "Help me! Please help me bring peace back to my country! Please help."
"Well, you finally said it," Nami said.
"Huh?" Vivi wondered
"Finally, right?" Jou grinned. "Took you long enough!"
"It's about time!" Nami grinned, too, giving a thumbs up.
"There's no telling what might happen on the sea either," Sanji said. "We're used to it! Am I right?"
"Yeah, it'll be just like any other day," Zoro agreed.
"Cool!" Chopper exclaimed. "I can't wait to see the desert!"
"Quack!" Carue quacked in an answer.
"Okay, you guys!" Usopp proudly said. "Are you all ready to head out for Yuba?!" Everyone raised their left arm in the air.
"YEAH!" The 6 Pirates and Carue all cheered.
"Thanks!" Vivi said happily, looking like she was about to cry.
"Ahem!" Marianne cleared her throat, getting everyone's attention.
"Oh, Marianne, you're a part of this, too," Nami mentioned. "Since you'll be stuck with us for a while."
"It's not that," Marianne shook her head. "You guys know you're missing someone, right?"
"Yeah, are we missing someone?" Usopp wondered after. Jou counted everyone with a finger and realized they didn't have a certain someone.
"Yeah, I just noticed we're short a person..." Jou stated.
"Luffy!" Everyone shouted.
"That idiot!" Nami growled in irritation.
We made it back to the Alabasta Arc. I'm so excited to get back to it after all these years.
Yeah, but hey, we had to take our time, and we're finally here. The opening for this arc will be in the next chapter. Also, has anyone noticed the large number of people saying they're commission artists? Since I lack the ability to draw, I wouldn't mind artwork, but I get the occasional user saying they make commission art.
I'm not sure how much they're charging, and I'm pretty sure they're scammers. I'm not exactly rich, but artwork would be fun.
Hope Jou joining Sanji and Chopper in town wasn't convoluted, or Marianne (temporarily) joining the crew doesn't bother people. But hey, we're trying new things. We will complete the Alabasta arc this year, and I hope everyone joins us for the ride.
I've also started posting this on Ao3. I don't hear much feedback there, but I'll keep posting there, too.
I'll see you guys next time!
Later!