Smile () One Piece Fanfic

Chapter 14

Chapter 14 - Burden
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"What's going to come out now?" Zoro grumbled, holding two of his swords out as he prepares himself.

I hummed, still observing the ship to try and get a grasp of what may arise. If there is a devil fruit user among them, it might cause a bigger problem than we originally thought. Though, from what I know, abilities such as those are relatively rare in this part of the seas. In addition, we don't know how truly capable the enemies are.

"Heh heh... You'll all be killed..."

We tensed, whirling to face the bruised up man who was smirking at us. Zoro clicked his tongue at the sight before deciding to simply not care. While Nami and Usopp shivered at the creepy expression of the opponent.

I peered at the opposer, frown in place as I question what might be the reason for a fallen foe to be so confident. However, I know I won't be getting an answer from a man with his foot already on death's door so I turned back to focus on the arrogant hypnotist.

My powers aren't making themselves known as of now. I for sure have overused them a while ago just so the three of us can arrive here. But then, I can't practice it much in battle anyway so I guess it's fine.

Moreover, I don't relatively enjoy the part where I feel whether a person is happy or not. It's just... It's too much for me. Maybe it's because I have never felt such happiness before that's why I can't comprehend it. While if there isn't even an ounce of joy, that emptiness I get from it is too hurtful and sentimental.

I can't handle it as of now. And in all honesty, I don't know when I would be able to do so in the future.

With that thought in mind, I pulled on the fakest smile I could muster.

"Come down... Nyaban brothers!" Jango shouted, raising his arms as if there is supposed to be a ritual before the grand appearance. 

Every one of us just stood there, waiting for this so-called 'Nyaban Brothers'. Though, it seems they are still in the process of preparing since the enemies are taking a remarkably long time in dropping from their ship. We ready ourselves for the first minute, yet, the four of us soon deadpanned when not a single soul presented themselves.

"Are they fooling with us?" Usopp whispered, suspiciously glancing at the trembling hypnotist. Must be feeling embarrassed.

"I'm not sure..." Nami murmured, eyeing the enemy as if everything will be revealed soon if she pursues with her staring. 

"Nah. That man appears to be confident..." Zoro stated. Nevertheless, the doubt behind his voice can be heard as he fiddle with his katana, slowly itching for the fight to continue. 

I didn't comment anything, merely glancing at their leader and noticing him peeking at us. With that, I grinned at the man in encouragement. Though, it appears more as if I'm mocking him. Which I am.

That made the hypnotist earn a handful of tick marks, glaring at the white-haired woman in the process. Nami, Usopp, and Zoro deadpanned as they gazed at the smiling lady they have on their side.

"Okay! Let's go!!!"

We instantly perked up, readying ourselves once we heard noises. A duo soon landed on each side of their captain, posing quite flashily while they are at it. Not wanting to be downsized by his crew, the hypnotist also did a proud stance.