“It looks awesome!!” Luffy shouted, grinning from ear to ear as he stared at the newly improved Merry.
“It’s the Going Merry, flying version!” Usopp added, gesturing proudly toward the ship, now outfitted with wings.
“Are you coming with us?” Ryomen asked Cricket, who simply shook his head.
“If I did, those two idiots would follow me.” He gestured toward Masira and Shoujou. “They’ve already done enough. I don’t want to put their lives in any more danger.”
Ryomen nodded in understanding. “I get it. Well then, thank you…for your earlier words. You gave me a lot to think about.” His voice softened with a smile.
“Hmph, enough of the sentimental stuff! Go on already.” Cricket waved them off, attempting to hide his emotions.
Suddenly, Masira shouted, “Everybody, get on board! You're running out of time!”
“We’ll lead you out! Just follow us!” Shoujou added.
The Straw Hats hurried aboard the Merry, excitement and anticipation bubbling in the air.
“Saruyama Alliance!! Don’t screw this up!! Whatever happens, give it your all for these guys!!” Cricket bellowed.
“Alright, let’s set sail!” Luffy declared with a grin.
“This is where we say goodbye.” Cricket called after them. “But remember one thing! No one has ever proven that El Dorado or Skypiea doesn’t exist!” His words were filled with a quiet conviction.
“Of course not!” Luffy yelled back.
“People might laugh and call them silly legends, but let ‘em laugh! That’s what makes it a great adventure!!” Cricket's declaration lit up their faces with smiles.
“Good luck! Don’t fall out of the sky!” Cricket waved as the Merry sailed away.
“Bye, mister!!” Luffy yelled, waving wildly.
“Thanks for everything, Cricket!” Chopper added cheerfully.
“I’m sure you’ll find El Dorado someday, mister!” Usopp shouted.
“Don’t dive so recklessly!” Nami warned.
“Mind your own business!” Cricket snapped, but the fond smile on his face lingered as the ship faded from view.
…
A few hours later, the Straw Hats, along with Masira, Shoujou, and their crews, rested as they neared the Knock-Up Stream.
“Boss! Bad news!” A frantic man approached Masira. “To the southwest, night is coming! It's the emperor cloud!”
“Are you sure? What time is it!?” Masira asked urgently.
“It’s only ten o'clock! We weren’t expecting it this early!”
Tension mounted as the ship rocked near a massive whirlpool.
“It’s the sign of the Knock-Up Stream! Head straight for it!” Masira commanded. “We’ll tow you into the whirlpool!”
“What happens after that!?” Nami yelled over the roaring water.
“Once you’re in the current, sail into the center! That’s your best shot!” Shoujou advised, his voice nearly drowned out by the noise.
“No one said anything about this!” Nami screamed, panic creeping into her voice.
“Nami, stay calm!” Ryomen said, trying to reassure her as Chopper clung to his back, eyes wide but filled with excitement.
YOU ARE READING
Cursed Seas and Slashing Tides
FanfictionRyomen lived a life of imprisonment. After finally tasting freedom, he decides to join Luffy on his quest to become the Pirate King. Will he fulfill his own dream, or will he give up on his thirst for revenge in exchange for the people he now sees a...
