Observation 1: Time is the greatest ally and worst enemy

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Purupurupurupuru... Purupurupurupuru... Purupurupurupuru...

Ca-cha...

"Oh hey! It's not like you to call like this."

"I recently received some interesting information from my favourite feathery friend and felt I should share."

"From Cockatoo? I dunno... You sure it's accurate?"

"Fairly certain. He and I have an arrangement after all."

"Hah... I have no clue how you can trust someone like that..."

"I never said a word about 'trust'. We are merely using each other for our own interests; nothing more, nothing less. Now, do you want to hear this information or not?"

"I guess you're gonna tell me anyways, so go ahead."

"Phoenix is moving to Alabasta."

"... Really? You sure?"

"That is what Cockatoo said. Seems like those rumours you planted really sped things along."

"Huh. Didn't expect them to spread so fast."

"And-"

"There's more!?"

"-it appears our Wren is not far behind."

"... no way!"

"I knew you would be surprised."

"I get to meet them both?!"

"It appears so."

"But... what's he doing there?!"

"Now that I don't know. This appears to be a mere coincidence, but I suggest we take the opportunity."

"Mm. Makes sense. Do you think you'll be able to sneak out alright, or do you need help?"

"Oh I'll be fine. I've been meaning to visit Alabasta for some time now. It appears that someone is disregarding some... regulations. I believe I'll be able to leave without much hassle."

"Well... that's good then. As long as you're sure. We head out straight away then?"

"That would be best."

"I see. Welp! Guess I'll see you over there then. God it's been ages since we've met face to face huh?"

"Yes... It really has, hasn't it. I'm looking forward to seeing you."

"Haha you too. See you there!"

Ca-cha bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...

~0O0~

Your shoes clacked against the pure white paving stones.

As much as you hated it, Marie Geoise could be really beautiful in the early morning. Pristine and white, with nothing but the chirps of birdsong and trickle of fountain water to disturb you from your thoughts... you could almost begin to relax.

This was the only time though. When you were wandering outside. Alone. Without the rest of your family to disturb you.

The only blissful time when the so called 'Domain of the Gods' felt remotely tolerable.

But then the walk was over, and the Celestial Dragon Gate was upon her. Pangaea Castle loomed overhead, tall and grand enough to be mistaken for a child's fairy tale palace. The guard at the gate saluted, knowing you by sight at this point, and signaled to let the metal shutters clang open.

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