hiding

To the rescue we think

"It's been over forty-eight hours; we need to send someone after them." Thatch crossed his arms, hoping his brothers would agree with him.

It had been over forty-eight hours since the Moby had heard from Marco and Alexia. The commanders now were in a heated discussion in the dining hall regarding sending out a search party for them. All of the first division was ready on standby to head out, anticipation and nervous energy filling the group as they waited outside the dining hall for Whitebeard's orders.

"They are probably just delayed because of the storm." Jozu shook his head, "The storm grew exponentially larger than we had anticipated. It looks as though it should weaken within the next twenty-four hours. We should wait until then to see if they make contact."

"I don't like it," Haruta muttered, "There's too many possibilities. Do we really want to risk their safety because we are afraid of overreacting? It's better to overreact and them be safe than for us to wait it out and find out they were injured or dead."

"I agree with Haruta on this one." Fossa spoke up from the far corner, Curiel and Blenheim nodding in agreement next to him.

"I have little doubt that it is the weather preventing them from contacting the Moby," Rakuyo agreed, "But it would be better to send out a group to ensure of this."

"It's reckless, as Jozu said the storm is much bigger than we had originally thought," Blamenco rolled his eyes, "Not to say the rest of the first division is incapable without Alexia or Marco, but do we really send them out after a commander in a bad storm? That seems hazardous to them as well."

"Well someone has got to go!" Izo scoffed, sticking up his nose as Blamenco, "We have this rule in place for a reason. If theres a chance someone in the family is in danger we go after them. If you won't send their division after them, then send a group of people who are more experienced with this sort of situation. I'll even go."

"Pops," Namur finally spoke up, being quiet for all of the conversation until the moment in time, "What is your opinion?"

"You all bring up valid points. While Izo is correct, we have this rule in place for your protection; we also cannot endanger anyone else's lives in the process." Whitebeard downed the remaining sake from his glass before continuing, "I do not object to sending out a group in pursuit of Marco and Alexia, but I will not order the first division to do so, I want the group that goes to be of volunteers with more experience. It would be foolish to do otherwise."

"I would like to be one of the first to volunteer." Izo crossed his arms, glaring at Blamenco once more. Rakuyo and Thatch also stepped forward towards Izo, making clear they had no problem with going.

The door to the dining hall swung open as Ian crashed onto the floor with a painful thud. He grimaced in pain before looking up. His face darkened in embarrassment as he realized Whitebeard along with every division commander, was staring down at him; having witnessed his very ungraceful entrance. Thatch sighed, shaking his head at the stupidity.

"Hi... umm I totally wasn't umm listening in... or or a-anything... but," Ian muttered nervously laughing as he picked himself off the ground, almost tripping over his own feet as he did so.

"Just spit it out kid." Blenheim groaned.

"I want to go with you guys!" Ian winced as he realized he had practically shouted his statement.

"That's a briiiiiight idea." Izo rolled his eyes, "Kid, your still extremely new at this, and extremely young. It would be stupid for you to tag along. This isn't some nice stroll in an orchard we're talking about here."

"I'm not that young!" Ian looked insulted, "I'm practically as old as Haruta and if he offered to go I guarantee you wouldn't turn him dow..."

"Haruta is also more experienced than you," Izo cut him off, "Darling he has been at this for much longer than you have. Just a few months ago Alexia saved you from being killed by a marine, you cannot tell me that you have gained years' worth of experience in that short of time. You've been a pirate for a little less than a year."

"Pops." Ian ignored Izo, looking directly at Whitebeard, "I'm asking you, let me do this. Alexia saved my life, it's only fair that I make sure that hers isn't in danger. You asked for volunteers, well I'm volunteering. I mean how am I supposed to get experience without going out and actually experiencing."

"You make a valid point my boy!" Pops laughed, rubbing his chin, "If this is what you wish, I will not stop you."

"This is NOT okay!" Izo eyes were shooting daggers at Whitebeard.

"Well then I guess you better make sure he doesn't die." Blamenco scoffed, irritating Izo even more.

"I'll kill all of you before this trip does!" Izo sulked out of the dining hall.

Thatch ruffled Ian's hair, shaking his own head as he chuckled, "Well kid, you better keep up."