Racing through the plaza behind Pappag, Nami's group came upon the aftermath of a battle. The plaza was littered with downed Fish-Man and human pirates. Franky whistled at the sight. "As expected from those two monsters."
All around the plaza, Fish-Men were in shock, watching as the army moved the unconscious pirates with care, careful not to disturb the two Straw Hats in the middle of the scene, who were busy arguing.
As Nami's group drew closer, they could hear the heated exchange.
"That's what I'm telling you! I have 5002 downed!" Sanji's voice echoed through the plaza.
Zoro's equally irritated voice came back, "Dart brow, I'm telling you I have 5033! I win, clear and simple."
"You can't count the ones before I got here. That doesn't count!" Sanji retorted.
"Tch, sore loser. What else would you expect from someone ranked number seven?" Zoro shrugged.
"Huh?! Why are you still ranking us by the order we got to Sabaody? You looking for another fight?" Sanji quipped, bumping his head against Zoro's.
Zoro was more than happy to bump back. "Just bring it on, stupid cook."
The two immediately dove into a brawl right in the middle of the plaza. Nami's group just watched. Nami, though exasperated by the fight, was secretly pleased. They had stopped a rebellion before it could spread. They were bound to get some kind of reward for that.
She turned to their Fish-Man companions. "See? Nothing to worry about. I told you we didn't disappear for two years just to sit around and do nothing."
"Oh! That's the spirit!" Franky chimed in. "But they should've left some enemies for me. There were some tests I still wanted to try out."
"Yohoho, they sure are energetic," Brook added.
Tomiko twitched at the chaotic scene before her. The large group of Fish-Man that had terrorized Fish-Man District were now being arrested by the military. She was sure she was dreaming.
The fight between Zoro and Sanji escalated as they used abilities and techniques. Before it could go further, Nami stepped in between them, bringing her fists down on both of their heads, effectively ending their brawl.
"Would you two cut it out!" Nami yelled, revealing her shark teeth.
"Ah, Nami, you can hit me anytime," Sanji cooed from the gorund with hearts for eyes.
Before Zoro could respond to the perverted cook, they were interrupted by someone clearing their throat. The group turned to see a new Fish-Man standing before them.
"I'm here on behalf of Jinbe, my captain. Welcome, Straw Hats," the Fish-Man said, nodding to acknowledge the crew.
"Who are you? Wanna fight?" Zoro asked, narrowing his eyes.
"Knock it off!" Nami punched Zoro into the ground again before turning to the Fish-Man. "Sorry about that. What were you saying?"
"I was thinking of gathering everyone. Boss Jimbei wants me to get the situation under control, but…" The Fish-Man trailed off, glancing at the unconscious pirates. "Well, anyway, I'll lead everyone to meet with him. He said he was already with part of your crew."
Before they could continue the conversation, a large tremor shook the ground. The tremor was short, but everyone had to stabilize themselves to avoid falling.
"What was that?" Sanji wondered aloud.
"Could it be a massive underwater volcano about to destroy the island? Everyone's going to die but me! Because I'm already dead!" Brook laughed.
"You'll die too, Brook. You're in the sea, bro," Franky replied.
"Oh, right. I forgot about that. Yohoho!"
"It's not an underwater volcano. The size of that shake would have to be massive," Nami commented, her brow furrowing in concern.
A high-pitched gasp from Cami caught everyone's attention. The mermaid was as pale as a ghost, her eyes wide with horror as she stared at the horizon behind them. The group turned to see what had spooked her—and they immediately understood.
"What the—" everyone whispered in shock.
On the horizon, a massive form loomed, growing larger by the second. It was Noah, the ship that was heading straight for Fish-Man Island.
No one spoke. They were all stunned into silence as the colossal ship barreled toward them, a collision course that threatened to destroy the island.
"That could be a problem," Franky commented.
"It was nice knowing you, my friends. I shall take your memories with me," Brook said somberly, as though everyone's fate was sealed except his.
"Don't exclude yourself," Sanji retorted, though he was equally unsure how they would make it from here.
"King Neptune!"
Desperate shouts rang out from the fish-men in the plaza. The soldiers stood at attention. The Straw Hats turned to see where the voices were directed. They saw a large fish-man, accompanied by numerous armored fish-men. With them was Boa Hancock. They had no idea why she was with the king, but they were sure they'd find out soon.
The royal party made its way over, and instantly, Pappag, Cami, and Toki bowed. Seeing the Straw Hats not bowing, Pappag stressed, "You guys, you need to bow. That is King Neptune, the king of the Ryugu Kingdom."
"The king!" Nami exclaimed, about to bow.
"Sorry, Pappag, we don't bow to kings. No matter who they are, these knees only bow before one," Sanji said, lighting up a cigarette. His words struck Nami, and she straightened up.
"Sanji's right, Pappag," Franky agreed.
"Yohoho, our king," Brook chimed in.
The fish-men could say no more as the royal party reached them.
"See, King Neptune, your problem is handled," Hancock said, gesturing to the mess in the plaza.
"Mmm, you are right. You have my thanks, Straw Hats," King Neptune said to the gathered pirates.
"Hancock, where's Luffy?" Zoro asked, ignoring the king's gratitude.
"I'm not sure. He snuck off at the palace. Then I was busy beating some fish-man pirate captain," Hancock replied.
"Hordy Jones!" Tomika exclaimed in disbelief, shocked that the beautiful pirate had defeated the most troublesome fish-man in the kingdom.
"Hordy, I think that was the name he used," Hancock said, looking at the shocked fish-man.
"Ms. Hancock, that was Hordy Jones," Fukaboshi clarified.
"So it was. Anyway, I thought Luffy would be here by now," Hancock continued.
"He's not here," Nami said firmly. Now, on top of all their other problems, they had a missing captain.
"It was reported that he was seen leaving the palace with my daughter. I do hope they are safe," King Neptune said.
Sanji's eyes filled with hearts. "A mermaid princess!" he swooned, ignoring Zoro's comments about his love sickness.
"Sorry to interrupt, but I'm just as worried about my sister and your captain. But we have bigger problems right now," Fukaboshi said, gesturing to Noah, which was looming on the horizon. The mention of the massive ship sobered everyone up.
"That will not be a problem," a calm, steady voice rang out over the gathering. Usopp, Chopper, and Robin appeared, walking towards them.
"Luffy and Jinbe, with Shirahoshi in tow, are heading to stop the ship," Robin announced.
"Shirahoshi is?!" the royal family exclaimed in shock. The danger Shirahoshi could face was immense.
"Don't worry, Luffy is with her. No matter what, he won't let her get hurt. And if you don't trust Luffy, Jinbe agreed to the plan and is with them. Trust them," Chopper reassured.
"Still—" Manboshi wanted to argue, but King Neptune held up a hand. His father was shaking his head. All the royal family members were understandably worried about the youngest, given her history.
King Neptune turned to the Straw Hats. "I shall trust your captain. Jinbe spoke highly of him, and if Jinbe trusts him so much, I will trust him with my daughter."
"Well, looks like we're waiting," Usopp said, looking toward Noah as it drew closer to the island.
Meanwhile, the three subjects of the discussion— Jinbe, Shirahoshi, and Megalo—were seen approaching Noah, swimming at high speed, carrying Luffy, who was enjoying himself thoroughly in his bubble.
"Oy, Jinbe, do you think that guy will really be on the ship?" Luffy asked.
Jinbe nodded. "Definitely. Vander Decken is quite vain. He'd want a front-row seat to the chaos he's planning."
As they neared the ship, they spotted a group of fish-men, including the infamous captain of the Flying Dutchman, Vander Decken. The pirates took notice of the incoming party, and Vander Decken's eyes locked on Shirahoshi.
"Shirahoshi! My love! You've finally come to me!" he declared.
"Eh, no thank you," Shirahoshi responded, maintaining her manners even in the face of her enemy.
Luffy laughed at the direct rejection, especially as Vander Decken visibly wilted. But, as quickly as he wilted, Vander Decken bounced back.
"Shirahoshi, my love. This is your last chance. Join me, and Fishman Island will be spared. Refuse, and I will destroy it with Noah," he threatened.
Shirahoshi hesitated, thinking of the destruction of her home and the lives that would be lost if she refused. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad. The people of Fishman Island would be safe, even if it meant torment for her.
"Shirahoshi," Luffy called, his voice soft but confident. Shirahoshi turned to face him. He said nothing but smiled at her reassuringly. She remembered the promise Luffy had made to her, and her resolve strengthened, though she still trembled with the weight of her decision.
"I shall not. Not with you," she said, her voice firm with finality.
Vander Decken took a few seconds to process her words before his expression turned wild with fury. He snarled and thrust his hands forward, causing Noah to accelerate directly toward Shirahoshi, who was now in front of the ship.
"Oh no!" Shirahoshi cried out, panicked. She quickly thought of a solution. Vander Decken's power only targeted her. She swam with all her might upwards, and Noah followed her, angling to miss Fishman Island.
"No!" Vander Decken screamed, giving chase. But before he could get too far, a tunnel of water appeared in his path, cutting him off. As the tunnel died down, Jinbe and Luffy were in his way.
"You're not going anywhere," Jinbe said, his tone cold.
"Let me handle this, Jinbe," Luffy said, moving forward. He raised his hand behind himself. "Gomu Gomu—" His hand turned black, then red, bursting into flames. With a fiery "Red Hawk," Luffy sent his flaming fist crashing into Vander, who couldn't react in time.
Vander was sent flying, floating unconscious in the water, his clothes torn and his gloved hand exposed to sea water. His crew stared in disbelief, unable to comprehend how their captain had been beaten so quickly. It wasn't long before they scattered, crying out for mercy.
Luffy turned to Jinbe, cocking his head. "Was he really strong, Jinbe?" he asked, flexing his fist. He knew he was stronger, but he thought the New World pirates were tougher.
"Of sorts," Jinbe replied, looking around to make sure no one else was left to fight. Shirahoshi joined them. "That should be it."
"Jinbe, what about his power?" Luffy asked, still unsure. Without Vander Decken and his power, it seemed like they'd won, but something still seemed off.
"Well, this ship is over the island," Luffy pointed out. "Is it going to go back?"
Shirahoshi and Jinbe both looked alarmed. That's right—they had forgotten about that. As if on cue, the massive ship started sinking toward Fishman Island.
"What do we do?" Shirahoshi panicked, unsure of what to do next.
"Destroy it," Luffy said, his tone serious. He looked to Shirahoshi for permission. From the history they'd told him, this ship was old and important, but he wasn't going to let his crew die over it. If she didn't want him to destroy it, he would at least ask first.
Shirahoshi hesitated, thinking hard. There was no solution that could save both her people and the ship. Her resolve firmed. She would always choose her people.
"Wait!" Jinbe suddenly spoke up. Everyone looked at him in confusion.
"Princess, do you remember the day your mother passed?" Jimbei asked.
Shirahoshi would never forget that day. But why had she... The realization hit her. It was the day she called the Sea Kings. But she had never done it on purpose. She voiced her confusion aloud.
"Shirahoshi." Luffy's voice, full of confidence, cut through her thoughts. "You may be a crybaby, but if Jinbe says you have this power, you have it. It's yours. Command it."
Shirahoshi took a calm breath, focusing on herself. She recalled the first time she spoke to the Sea Kings, the feelings she had when communicating with the creatures of the sea. She concentrated on that sensation, trying to summon it again. She whispered, "Help," but all she heard were the raging currents.
She focused again, desperately trying, calling out for help from the sea. Yet, nothing happened. Again and again she tried, her voice growing more frantic and tearful. She felt powerless to stop the destruction of her island.
Smack!
"Luffy!" Jinbe shouted, shocked by his action.
Shirahoshi held her cheek, her skin warm from Luffy's smack. She looked at him, tearful and filled with fear. "Luffy…"
"Listen, crybaby," Luffy said firmly, "If you want to protect your home, you need to fight for it. Overcome your fear. Now, call the Sea Kings."
Shirahoshi wiped her tears away and steadied her breathing. Luffy was right. She had to protect her people. She closed her eyes again and dug deeper within herself, searching for her power to summon the Sea Kings.
Noah continued to descend, getting closer to the bubble barrier around Fishman Island. The inhabitants were crying out in panic. Shirahoshi searched within herself, deeper and deeper, until everything around her fell silent. Even the cries of her family faded away. Only the deep, ancient feeling remained as Noah pressed against the barrier.
Luffy clenched his fist, and Jinbe assumed a fighting stance. But there was only silence. Shirahoshi could no longer hear anything, but she could feel something powerful. Noah bent the barrier more and more. Luffy's hair started to turn white. Shirahoshi sensed the ancient power within her. She welcomed it, and with all her strength, she opened her mouth.
"Please HELP ME!"
Instantly, the sea fell silent. The screams of Fishman Island's inhabitants ceased. Shirahoshi kept her eyes closed, not wanting to see if she had failed. Then, she felt a hand on her shoulder. She opened her eyes and saw Luffy, wearing his red cardigan and shorts, smiling widely.
"You did it, crybaby."
Her eyes scanned the area. The bubble barrier was stretched to its limit, but it hadn't broken. Noah had stopped moving, held in place by six massive Sea Kings, each holding chains in their mouths that were attached to Noah. Shirahoshi gasped in awe. She had done it. She had called the Sea Kings. Her island was saved.
She turned to Luffy for guidance.
"Don't look at me," Luffy laughed. "They listen to you."
Right. Shirahoshi turned to the Sea Kings and commanded them to move Noah to the ocean floor. The Sea Kings pulled at the chains, guiding Noah away from Fishman Island and into the deep sea. The people of the island let out a collective sigh of relief, then cheered for their princess, their savior.
"Haha, looks like you're the hero now, princess," Jinbe smiled warmly.
Shirahoshi didn't know how to react, so she simply nodded. She watched as the Sea Kings, after putting Noah down, surrounded her. They were speaking in a language she understood.
"You have finally grown, Poseidon," one Sea King said.
"Don't call her Poseidon, you'll confuse the fry," another responded.
"Shirahoshi." A third Sea King called her name, prompting her to turn toward it.
"Awesome! Can you guys can hear them too?" Luffy interrupted excitedly, catching the attention of the Sea Kings.
"Oh, you can hear us," one Sea King said, surprised.
"Don't be surprised," Luffy grinned at the Sea King that spoke. "You can see the boy's aura. The song beats again."
"Haha, so I can. Things are certainly near the appointed time."
"Time?" Shirahoshi asked, confused. She still didn't fully understand.
Jinbe, who had been left out of the conversation, spoke up. "I can't hear anything. Luffy, you can hear them?" Luffy nodded. Jinbe thought for a moment. "I remember hearing something about this. It was said that some of the conquerors could hear what others couldn't. It seems Luffy is worthy of being my captain."
The Sea Kings interrupted Jinbe's thoughts. "There is no concern about time. All will be revealed. We came at your call, Shirahoshi."
"Now, you are old enough to handle the power within you."
"Your desire to protect your home and our purpose to safeguard Fishman Island align."
"We shall help you. All you must do is call."
With that, the Sea Kings turned to leave. One of them looked at Luffy. "Oh boy, I wonder what you'll do this time."
Before Luffy could respond, the Sea Kings had left, leaving him puzzled. "What do you mean, this time?" he murmured.
"What was that, Luffy?" Jinbe asked.
Luffy shook his head with a smile. "Now that that's done, let's go see the others."
XXX
Later, Jinbe, Shirahoshi (with Megalo), and Luffy were greeted with cheers from the people of Fishman Island. In celebration of their survival and the island being saved from destruction, King Neptune threw an island-wide party. He invited the Straw Hats, Jinbe, and their friends to the palace to celebrate and thank them for their help. Tomiko, Pappag, and Cami were nervous, trying their best not to mess up in front of the royal family.
The party was in full swing, with everyone eating, drinking, and enjoying themselves. Hancock stayed close to Luffy after scolding him for leaving without her, which left him sulking for a while. When Shirahoshi tried to take some of the blame, she too was scolded, but like any puppy, Luffy quickly bounced back and began devouring all the meat Shirahoshi had tried to feed him.
Soon, everyone was sitting in a circle, sharing stories. Jinbe remembered something important.
"Oh yes, Luffy, Hancock. From what I gathered, you both were out of touch with the news for the past two years," Jimbei began.
"What about it, Jinbe?" Hancock asked politely, though her mind was clearly elsewhere, dreaming of her wedding.
Jinbe sweat-dropped at Hancock's tone. "Well, there were a few things you missed while you were gone. The biggest news is about Blackbeard."
At the mention of Blackbeard, Luffy's expression turned serious. The pirate responsible for handing Ace over to the Marines.
With Luffy's attention, Jinbe continued, "He's no longer just a pirate. With the power he obtained from Whitebeard, he quickly rose in the ranks, and about a year ago, he fought a war against the remaining Whitebeard pirates. After his victory, he was recognized as one of the Four Emperors. He's not going to be an easy opponent."
A heavy silence fell over the room as all eyes turned to Luffy, whose hat shadowed his eyes. He lifted it, his gaze sharp and dangerous. He grinned, but Jinbe could feel the tension in the air.
"Shishi... Let's head to the New World first," Luffy laughed. The Straw Hats chuckled, knowing that Luffy was still focused on the adventure ahead of them.
They continued to enjoy their time, catching up on the news from the last two years, including Akainu becoming Fleet Admiral and Aokiji leaving. Hancock and Luffy were already aware of these developments.
But while they were enjoying themselves, they had no idea about the visitor that had just arrived at the palace doors.
King Neptune, enjoying the festivities, was interrupted by hurried steps. A guard burst into the room, gasping for breath, and bowed before the king.
"Your Majesty, a representative of the Big Mom pirates is here."
The announcement brought the party to an immediate halt.
"Oh no," King Neptune sighed, despondent. They had just survived a disaster, and now another one loomed on the horizon. With the candy factory destroyed, they had no way to pay Big Mom's tribute.
His worry caught the attention of the Straw Hats.
"Oooh, this sounds like fun. Say, Hancock, why don't we greet them?" Luffy asked, his eyes gleaming with mischief.
"Luffy," Hancock replied seriously, her gaze hardening. Everyone expected her to scold him, but instead, she added, "Let's see that hideous woman's messenger."
"Oh no, please Luffy, you've done enough for us. You don't need to do anything else. We'll figure something out," King Neptune said.
"Shishi, we're friends, old man. Don't worry, it's just an emperor," Luffy replied.
King Neptune could do nothing in response to Luffy's words and left to greet their guest.
"Well, let's see this member of an emperor's crew," Zoro said, standing up and adjusting his swords.
"I want to see their strength," Sanji commented.
"Yohoho, exciting!" Brook added.
"Suuuuper! Let's do this!" Franky shouted.
The Straw Hats stood up, ready to join the king in the audience chamber.
Jinbe watched the crew with a wistful look. This crew would go far, especially with Luffy as its captain.
"Oy, Jinbe!" Luffy's call brought his attention to him. Luffy was smiling brightly at the fish-man. "Join my crew."
The Straw Hats looked at Jimbei, smiling in approval. Jimbei was stunned for a moment before he laughed joyfully.
"I was originally going to ask you to join after I severed my ties with Big Mom, but it seems the tides have changed. I shall join, Captain," Jinbe declared. The Straw Hats cheered, with Luffy cheering the loudest.
"Let's go!" Luffy declared, and the Straw Hats followed Jinbe to the audience chamber.
In the audience chamber, King Neptune was on his throne, explaining the situation to the Big Mom pirate, a man named Baron Tamago.
"Well, King Neptune, that's unfortunate. You see, Mama was looking forward to the sweets for an upcoming wedding. Mama will not stand for this," Tamago said, sipping his tea.
"Like I said, we can compensate with treasure, but we can't provide any sweets," King Neptune replied.
"Listen, King Neptune," a lion mink said. "Mama doesn't take kindly to those who break deals. If Fish-Man Island doesn't get the sweets, say goodbye to your peace."
"And I don't like people threatening my friends."
The voice cut through the conversation like cold steel. The room turned to see the Straw Hats together, looking formidable.
"Huh? And who are you to say that, brat? Do you have any idea who we are?" the lion said.
"Filth," Hancock spat, pointing angrily at him. "You're not worthy to speak to Luffy like that."
"Who—" The lion stopped himself as he took in the beautiful woman fully. "Boa Hancock! What are you doing here?" he asked, starry-eyed.
"Hmph, I don't explain myself to nobodies," Hancock replied coldly.
"That's fine!" The lion slapped himself. "Like hell it is!" He growled, but before he could do anything, a hand stopped him. Tamago, the other pirate, stepped forward.
"Pekoms, wait. It seems we haven't been properly introduced. I'm Baron Tamago of the Big Mom Pirates," he said, gesturing to the lion. "And this is Pekoms."
"Monkey D. Luffy," Luffy introduced himself.
Tamago's eyes widened. "I see. This is the rookie who wreaked havoc at Marineford. So he's still alive and with Boa Hancock. This is no simple matter." He continued, "As I was saying earlier, there's no way to guarantee the safety of the island if tribute isn't paid."
"And I said I don't like you threatening my friends," Luffy said firmly.
"Boy, you don't understand who you're up against," Lion sneered.
"Insolent bug. We know exactly who Big Mom is," Hancock snapped.
"And you still want to mess with us?" Pekoms said his eyes cold.
"Oh, I'm not just messing with it. I'm claiming Fish-Man Island as my own," Luffy declared.
The two pirates were shocked by the audacity of the declaration.
"Boy, I haven't met someone as stupid as you," Pekoms said, quickly jumping out of the way as Hancock's foot passed where he was standing. "Woah, woah."
"Bon, looks like you're serious soir." Boi took out a Den Den Mushi and rang the line. The room grew tense as the Den Den rang.
"Gotcha."
"Ma Ma, Tamago, do you have the shipment?" Big Mom's unmistakable voice came through.
"Bon. Not exactly, Mama. There's been a situation soir," Boi said.
"Explain."
Boi then explained the situation, and there was a long silence before Big Mom spoke again.
"Straw Hat Luffy. I thought you were dead. Now you show up and try to take what's mine. You're going to wish you were dead."
"Bring it on. I can take anything you throw at me," Luffy replied boldly.
"Oh, you ballsy brat. You don't know the scope of what it means to be an Emperor. MaMaMa, come to the New World. I'll be waiting."
"You can count on it. Wait for me, I'm going to kick your butt," Luffy declared.
"This is war, then. Tamago, Pekoms, come back."
"Roger, Mama." The call ended, and Tamago and Pekoms made their way out, shooting the Straw Hats one last cold look.
"I can't believe that old hag. Who does she think she is, talking to my Luffy like that?" Hancock raged.
Luffy turned to his crew and laughed. "Sorry, guys, looks like we're in a mess again."
"Jeez, things can never be simple with you," Nami complained.
"Man, looks like our course is already set," Sanji said.
"Yohoho, an emperor. I hope we don't die," Brook commented.
"Please don't say that," Chopper cried.
"It's more likely to happen. Large-scale fights in the New World often end in casualties. I wonder who it will be. Fufufu," Robin mused taking a quick look at Usopp.
"Robin!" Usopp complained.
Shirahoshi watched the Straw Hats react lightly to the threat they faced. From what her family had told her, Big Mom was a very powerful figure. "Will you be alright?" she asked Luffy.
He turned to her and grinned. "Don't worry," he reassured her.
King Neptune faced the pirates and addressed Jimbei. "I'm sorry you're still cleaning up these messes."
"It is my duty to help my people, King Neptune," Jinbe said.
King Neptune turned to the pirates. "I will be honored to fly your flag. Once you've beaten Big Mom, let me know, and I'll raise it," he said, placing complete faith in the Straw Hats' victory.
"Yosh, let's get going," Luffy said. With that, the party ended, and the Straw Hats, with the help of the Ryuu Kingdom, got their ship ready. Tomiko and Sanji swapped recipes and discussed cooking. Franky met with Den to reminisce about Tom. The royal family, Hancock, and Luffy had their last discussions. They said goodbye to Cami and Pappag, and now it was time for the crew to leave the island and head to the New World.
"Luffy, you must come visit when you can. Next time, I'll be much stronger," Shirahoshi said.
Luffy smiled at the mermaid princess. "For sure. Until then, Shirahoshi."
The Straw Hats cheered their final goodbyes as they were escorted off the island, on their way to the New World.