The hold was a grim, suffocating space. The air was thick with the stench of sweat and fear, and the only light came from a few flickering lanterns hung high above. Hongo sat against the damp wooden wall, his hands bound in heavy chains. Around him, the other prisoners huddled together, their faces etched with despair. Women, children, and even a few men—all of them stolen from their lives and now bound for an unknown fate.
Hongo inspected the hold, taking in every detail. The guards were lax, their laughter echoing from the deck above. They clearly didn't see the prisoners as a threat. Good, Hongo thought. Let them underestimate us.
As he assessed the situation, his gaze fell on a young man sitting a few feet away. The man was lean but wiry, with a mop of unruly brown hair and a defiant gleam in his eyes. Unlike the others, he didn't seem broken—just angry. Hongo's instincts told him this one might be useful.
"You don't look like the others," Hongo said quietly, his voice barely audible over the creaking of the ship.
The young man glanced up with narrowing eyes. "What's it to you?" he snapped defensively.
Hongo shrugged as much as his chains would allow. "Just making conversation. Name's Hongo."
The young man studied him for a moment, then sighed. "Eli," he said finally. "And no, I'm not like the others. I was trying to stop these bastards when they grabbed me. Guess I bit off more than I could chew."
Hongo's lips twitched in what might have been a smile. "You've got guts. That's more than most can say."
Eli snorted. "Guts didn't do me much good, did they? Now I'm just another piece of cargo."
"Not if we do something about it," Hongo said, his voice low but firm.
Eli's eyes widened, and he leaned closer. "You've got a plan?"
Hongo glanced around to make sure no guards were within earshot. "Not yet. But I'm working on it. First, I need to know what you're capable of."
Eli hesitated, then nodded. "I'm a fighter. Grew up on the streets, so I know how to handle myself. And I've got a knack for picking locks." He held up his hands, revealing a small, makeshift lockpick hidden in his sleeve. "They didn't search me too well."
Hongo gleamed with approval. "Good. That's something we can work with. But we'll need to be careful. One wrong move, and we're both dead."
Eli nodded, "I'm in. Whatever it takes to get out of here."
The two men fell into a quiet conversation, their voices barely above a whisper. Hongo shared what he knew about the ship's layout and the guards' routines, while Eli offered insights into the other prisoners—who might be willing to help and who weren't too frightened to act. Slowly, a plan began to take shape.
At one point, Eli glanced at Hongo and asked, "Why are you doing this? You could've just looked out for yourself."
Hongo's gaze softened, just for a moment. "Because no one deserves this," he said. "And because my crew would do the same for me."
Eli nodded, a flicker of hope in his eyes. "Your crew… they're coming for you, aren't they?"
Hongo's lips curved into a faint smile. "They'll come. But we're not going to wait around for them. We'll make our own way out."
*****
The Acorn Hotel was a cozy, bustling hub of activity as festival preparations reached their peak. The scent of roasted nuts and spiced cider wafted through the air, mingling with the faint hum of chatter and laughter. Marya stepped through the hotel's wooden doors, her usual composed demeanor softened by the soft illumination of the lanterns hanging from the rafters. She was dressed in an elegant kimono of deep indigo with silver accents, her long raven hair intricately braided and adorned with a single wisteria blossom. The change in her appearance was striking—gone was the fierce warrior, replaced by a poised and radiant figure.
Shanks and Yasopp were seated at a corner table, their new yukatas a stark contrast to their usual attire. Shanks' crimson yukata with gold embroidery suited him surprisingly well. Yasopp's earthy brown yukata was simpler but no less fitting, his bandana replaced by a traditional headband. They were in the middle of a lively conversation when Marya approached, her presence immediately drawing their attention.
"Well, well," Shanks said, his grin widening as he took in her appearance. "If it isn't Marya. I almost didn't recognize you. You clean up nice."
Yasopp whistled softly. "Yeah, you look like you belong in one of those fancy paintings. What happened to the sword-wielding prodigy we know and love?"
Marya rolled her eyes, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "I could say the same about you two. You look... surprisingly good in those yukatas. Almost like you belong here."
Shanks chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Don't get used to it. I'm not trading my coat for this thing permanently. But I'll admit, it's comfortable."
Yasopp nodded, adjusting the sleeve of his yukata. "Yeah, it's not bad. Though I feel a bit underdressed compared to you, Marya. You're really going all out for this festival, huh?"
Marya's smile widened slightly. "It's a special occasion. And don't worry, your clothes are being washed and will be returned to you tomorrow. You'll have your 'signature looks' back soon enough."
Shanks raised a playful eyebrow. "Aww, and here I thought you were trying to make us blend in permanently. What's next? Are you going to recruit us as festival planners?"
Marya shook her head, her tone dry. "Don't push your luck. Speaking of which, how are you finding the Acorn Hotel? I hope the accommodations are to your liking."
Yasopp leaned forward, his expression mock-serious. "Well, the beds are softer than a ship's hammock, and the food's better than rations. But the real question is, who's paying for all this? Because I have a feeling it's not coming out of our pockets."
Shanks grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Yeah, Marya. Is this all going on your father's credit? Because if so, I might have to order another round of that 'special brew' the innkeeper keeps pushing."
Marya's lips twitched in amusement. "Let's just say the island is covering your stay as a gesture of goodwill. But don't get too comfortable. You're here to help, remember?"
Shanks held up his hands in mock surrender. "Hey, we're just grateful for the hospitality. And the clothes. And the food. And the—"
Yasopp cut him off with a laugh. "What he's trying to say is, we appreciate it. Even if it is going on your father's tab."
Marya sighed with fondness. "You two are impossible. But I'm glad you're settling in. Now, are you ready for the Opening Ceremony? The lantern lighting is about to start."
Shanks stood, adjusting his yukata with exaggerated care. "Ready as we'll ever be. Lead the way, Marya."
Yasopp followed suit, "Yeah, let's go light up the sky. But don't think we're done teasing you about this whole 'dressed-up' thing."
Marya shook her head, her smile returning. "I wouldn't expect anything less."
The festival grounds were a sea of color and light, the air alive with the hum of excitement and the sweet scent of wisteria blossoms. The central stage was adorned with cascading flowers and glowing lanterns, its grandeur a testament to Harper's meticulous planning. Shanks, Marya, and Yasopp made their way through the bustling crowd, their presence drawing curious glances and whispered excitement.
As they approached the stage, they spotted Vaughn standing at the crowd's edge, his arms crossed in bemusement. He waved them over, his tone light but carrying a note of relief. "Over here! I'm hiding from Harper. He's in full 'festival mode,' and it's safer to stay out of his way."
Marya raised an eyebrow, scanning the crowd until she spotted Harper. His green hair bobbed as he darted around like a whirlwind. With his clipboard in hand, he barked orders at anyone within earshot. "I see what you mean," she said dryly. "He's in his element."
Shanks chuckled, his grin widening. "That guy's got more energy than my entire crew combined. I like him."
Yasopp nodded teasingly. "Yeah, but I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of one of his 'suggestions.' He looks like he's about to explode."
Master Gaius appeared, his weathered kiseru pipe clenched between his teeth and his yukata robes swaying gently with each step. Dalton, his spirited grandson, bounded beside him with wide-eyed excitement. "Grandpa, look! There are so many people!"
Master Gaius chuckled warmly. "That's what a festival's all about, Dalton. Now, stay close. We don't want to lose you in the crowd." Dalton nodded, though his attention was already drawn to a nearby stall selling sweet treats.
Marya greeted them with a small smile. "Glad you could make it. The ceremony's about to start."
Master Gaius nodded, focusing on the stage. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. Besides, I wanted to see how Amel and Nanette handle the spotlight."
As the crowd began to quiet, the Ellingtons stepped onto the stage, their presence commanding and their expressions a mix of pride and authority. Amel, the mayor, wore a finely tailored yukata of deep crimson with gold accents, his piercing eyes scanning the crowd with a regal bearing. Beside him stood Nanette, the head librarian, her raven hair swept into an elaborate updo and her bronze skin radiant in the golden light. Her crimson lips were set in a firm line, and her eyes reflected a mix of intelligence and grace. Micah, their young son, stood between them, his confidence shining through as he held a lantern in his small hands.
Harper, still buzzing with energy, gave a final wave of his clipboard before stepping back, his green hair catching the light as he joined the crowd. He spotted Vaughn and the others and made his way over, his tone breathless but triumphant. "Everything's perfect! Well, almost perfect. The lanterns on the left side are slightly uneven, but no one will notice, right?"
Vaughn sighed in fond exasperation. "No one will notice, Harper. Relax."
Harper waved a hand dismissively, his attention already drawn to Shanks and Yasopp. "And you two! Looking sharp. I knew those yukatas would suit you. Now, if only I could get Vaughn to wear something other than his usual—"
Vaughn cut him off with a pointed look. "Don't start."
As the Ellingtons began their speech, the crowd fell silent, their attention fixed on the stage. Amel's soothing, commanding voice carried across the grounds. "Welcome, everyone, to the Founder's Festival. Tonight, we celebrate our history, our community, and the bonds that hold us together."
Nanette stepped forward, her voice calm but carrying a note of pride. "This festival is a reminder of the beauty and strength of our home. Let us honor those who came before us and look forward to the future with hope and determination."
Micah, holding his lantern high, added in a clear, confident voice, "And let's have fun!"
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause; the energy was electric as the lantern-lighting ceremony began. Shanks leaned over to Marya with a note of admiration. "Your family knows how to put on a show."
Marya's lips curved into a small smile. "They do. But the real magic happens when the lanterns are lit."
As the first lanterns were released, the crowd collectively held their breath, eyes wide with wonder. The lanterns, shining softly with a golden hue, began to ascend into the night sky, their light growing smaller and more ethereal with each passing second. Amel, Nanette, and Micah stood together, their faces illuminated by the gentle glow, reflecting a shared sense of accomplishment and joy. The lanterns drifted upward, creating a sea of twinkling lights that seemed to merge with the stars above, a breathtaking spectacle that left the crowd in awe.
Harper, standing close to Vaughn, let out a contented sigh. "Look at that," he murmured with his emotion-filled voice. Vaughn couldn't help but smile at the sight. Shanks and Yasopp exchanged glances, their faces mirroring the amazement that rippled through the crowd. Marya, watching the lights, felt a swell of pride and joy. As the lanterns continued their ascent, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of unity and celebration, a perfect embodiment of the Founder's Festival and the community it honored.
Just as the lanterns began to fade into the starlit sky, Micah dashed over to his friend Dalton. "Did you hear about the pirates?" Micah's eyes were wide with a mix of fear and excitement.
Dalton's face lit up, and he puffed his chest out with bravado. "Don't worry, Micah. I'm going to be a guardian, just like my grandpa. I'll protect us all."
Micah looked at Dalton with admiration. "Really? You think you can fight pirates?"
"Of course!" Dalton declared with unwavering confidence. "I've been training with my grandpa. I'm practically a guardian already."
As the two boys spoke, they noticed Shanks and Yasopp standing nearby, their figures silhouetted against the soft glow of the remaining lanterns. Micah tugged on Dalton's sleeve, whispering urgently, "Dalton, look! It's them—the pirates!"
Dalton's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the two men. With a surge of courage, he marched up to Shanks and Yasopp, his small frame filled with determination. "Hey, you!" he called out, his voice surprisingly steady. "Are you really pirates?"
Shanks and Yasopp exchanged amused glances before Shanks crouched down to Dalton's level. "And what if we are, little man?"
Dalton squared his shoulders, meeting Shanks' gaze head-on. "Then you better watch out! I'm going to be a guardian, just like my grandpa, and I'll make sure you don't cause any trouble here."
Yasopp chuckled, ruffling Dalton's hair. "You better watch out, captain. I think he means business."
Dalton nodded vigorously. "I'll protect everyone, just like my grandpa."
"What's this, now?" Gaius inquired, with tinged amusement, as he puffed on his pipe.
Dalton turned around, his eyes lighting up, "Grandpa, I was just telling these pirates to watch out because I'm going to be a guardian!"
Shanks and Yasopp couldn't help but laugh, and Gaius joined in with a deep, hearty chuckle that filled the air. "Is that so?" he said, clapping Dalton on the shoulder. "Well, I suppose they'll have to be on their best behavior then."
Shanks grinned, "With a young guardian like him around, we'll have to mind our manners."
Yasopp nodded, "Indeed, it looks like you're in good hands."
Gaius's eyes sparkled with pride as he looked at his grandson. "You've got the spirit of a true guardian, Dalton. Just like your old grandpa."
Dalton beamed with pride, his earlier bravado now a glimmering confidence. "Thanks, Grandpa."
Gaius then glanced at the sweets food stall Dalton had been eyeing earlier. "How about we celebrate your newfound guardian duties with some sweets?" he suggested with a wink.
Dalton's face lit up with excitement. "Yes, please!"
As they walked towards the food stall, Gaius affectionately ruffled Dalton's hair. "Remember, a true guardian knows when to be brave and when to enjoy the simple things in life."
Dalton nodded eagerly. "I will, Grandpa."
Bianca, Zola, and Charlie were gathered near a cluster of stalls, their hands full of festival treats. Bianca held a skewer of grilled meat, her long black hair catching the light as she animatedly explained something to Zola. Zola adjusted her glasses with one hand while holding a delicate paper cup of shaved ice in the other. Charlie, meanwhile, was enthusiastically devouring a stick of dango, his eyes wide with delight as he listened to Bianca's story.
Marya spotted them from across the crowd. With a flicker of amusement, she waved them over. "Bianca! Zola! Charlie!" she called, her voice carrying over the hum of the festival.
The trio turned, their faces lighting up as they saw Marya. Bianca waved her skewer in the air, her tone bright. "Marya! Over here! You have to try this yakitori—it's, like, amazing!"
Zola followed Bianca's gaze and excitedly waved. "Yes, and the kakigori is exceptional. The texture is perfect."
Charlie, his mouth still full of dango, nodded vigorously. "And the dango! You have to try the dango!"
As they approached, Marya greeted them, "That looks amazing!" With a small smile, "There's someone I'd like you to meet."
Before she could continue, Charlie's eyes widened, and he swallowed his food quickly. "Wait, Marya. Have you heard about the pirates? There are reports of pirates on the island. Isn't that interesting?"
Bianca rolled her eyes, her tone teasing. "Charlie, we've been over this. Like, a hundred times. Yes, there are pirates. But, like, Marya probably knows more about it than we do."
Zola nodded assertively, "Yes, and given the current situation, it's likely they're here for a reason. Perhaps they have information we need."
Marya's lips twitched in amusement. "Actually, the pirates are right here." She gestured to Shanks and Yasopp, who stood beside her, their presence commanding even in the midst of the bustling crowd.
Shanks grinned as he gave a casual wave. "Hey there. Name's Shanks. This is Yasopp."
Yasopp nodded. "Nice to meet you."
Bianca's eyes widened, her skewer momentarily forgotten. "Wait, like, THE Shanks? Red-Haired Shanks? Oh my gosh, this is, like, incredible!"
Zola inspected Shanks and Yasopp with academic curiosity. "Fascinating. Your reputation precedes you. I've read about your exploits in several texts."
Charlie, his excitement barely contained. "This is quite remarkable. There are actual pirates at our festival. It truly is significant."
Shanks chuckled in amusement. "Glad to hear it. And don't worry, we're not here to cause trouble. Just passing through."
Yasopp nodded teasingly. "Yeah, and maybe sampling some of that amazing food while we're at it."
Bianca grinned brightly. "Well, you've come to the right place. Like, the food here is, like, incredible. You have to try the taiyaki—it's, like, life-changing."
Zola pointed her finger in the air. "Yes, and the mochi is particularly noteworthy. The texture is unparalleled."
Charlie, still buzzing with excitement, added, "And the dango! Don't forget the dango!"
Lip curled Marya shook he head. "I think they get the idea."
Jax walked confidently alongside Celeste and Riggs. Celeste, with her short, silver bob gently swaying, pressed her index fingers together nervously as they approached the group, feeling a mix of excitement and shyness. Nearing the festival, the trio observed Bianca, Zola, Charlie, and Marya engaged in a lively conversation with Shanks and Yasopp, adding an unexpected element to the already vibrant gathering.
"Celeste!" Charlie called out, his face lighting up. "You made it back in time for the festival!"
Celeste smiled softly, a flush running across her cheeks. "Yes, my last mission encountered some trouble, and we almost didn't make it in time."
Jax gave Celeste a reassuring pat on the back. "Well, what matters is that you're here now. Let's make the most of it."
Riggs let out a dramatic sigh, crossing his arms. "It's so not fair. I never get to see any real action. You all are getting the good tasking while I am stuck babysitting," he whined, his voice tinged with jealousy.
Jax narrowed his eyes at Riggs with a stern look. "Maybe if you took your role more seriously, you'd get a chance to prove yourself," he chastised.
Riggs straightened up, his face flushed with indignation. "I do take my role seriously, Jax," he retorted, his voice rising slightly. "If I were on tasks like them, I could show you how serious I am!"
Marya's eyes twinkled as she interrupted their quarrel. "Celeste, it's so good to have you back with us," she said, her voice filled with genuine happiness.
Celeste's eyes sparkled with gratitude. "Thank you, everyone. I'm so glad to be back among friends."
Bianca clapped her hands. "Let's not waste any more time then! There's so much to see and do. Who's up for some games?"
Yasopp grinned, pointing to a nearby stall. "I've got my eye on that shooting gallery. Think you can beat me, Shanks?"
Shanks laughed heartily. "You're on, Yasopp. Let's see who's the better shot."
Emmet, walked beside Natalie, calculating the odds of winning the shooting gallery when Natalie tugged at his arm. "Come on, Emmet, let's join them," she urged with a smile. Emmet couldn't hide his affection as he smiled back.
As Emmet and Natalie approached the group, Bianca's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Well, like, look who's decided to join us, like, hand in hand," she teased, her voice full of playful insinuation.
Both Emmet and Natalie flushed a deep shade of crimson. Emmet cleared his throat awkwardly, desperately trying to mask his embarrassment. "We, uh, just thought it would be fun," he stammered, avoiding everyone's gaze.
Natalie laughed nervously, her fingers tightening around Emmet's arm for a brief moment before letting go. "Yes, just thought we'd give it a try," she echoed with a mix of sincerity and bashfulness.
As the group laughed and teased each other, Natalie took a moment to glance around at her friends, a look of admiration on her face. "Everyone looks so beautiful in their kimonos," she remarked, her voice filled with awe. "We should definitely take some pictures to capture this moment."
Her suggestion was met with enthusiastic agreement. Bianca immediately pulled out her camera, ready to play photographer. "Great idea, Natalie! Let's get everyone together for a group shot," she said, waving them all into position.
Marya adjusted her kimono and smiled brightly. "I'm all for it." Celeste stood beside her, nodding in agreement, her eyes glowing with happiness.
As the group gathered, Shanks and Yasopp paused their playful banter, joining in with wide grins. Emmet and Natalie found their spots, standing close as they prepared for the photo. With everyone in place, Bianca called out, "Say cheese!"
As the group settled for the picture, Vaughn wandered through the bustling festival, his eyes scanning the crowd with growing anxiety. He muttered Harper's name under his breath, hoping to catch a glimpse of his familiar face among the sea of kimonos and festive banners.
His heart pounded with each step, and a bead of sweat formed on his brow despite the cool evening breeze. The festival's vibrant energy seemed to magnify his nervousness, making every moment without finding Harper feel like an eternity.
Just as Vaughn paused to catch his breath, he nearly collided with Marya and her friends. "Oh, sorry! I didn't see you there," he apologized, his voice tinged with both relief and embarrassment.
Marya looked up, surprised, and then flashed a welcoming smile. "Vaughn! You seem a bit flustered."
"I'm looking for Harper. Have you seen him?" Vaughn asked, trying to steady his voice, though his eyes betrayed the urgency of his search.
Marya exchanged glances with her friends before shaking her head. "No, we haven't seen him. But don't worry, we'll help you find him. Right, everyone?"
Harper's eyes caught sight of a familiar figure. "Vaughn, darling!" he called out, his voice ringing clear above the festival's din. Harper had arrived, exuding confidence and charm once again, his presence commanding the attention of everyone around. His eyes locked onto Vaughn, and with an exaggerated strut, he closed the distance between them, his every step a performance.
Vaughn's anxiety melted away at the sight of Harper in his kimono—adorned with intricate, dazzling patterns that seemed to amplify his presence. He couldn't help but laugh, relief and affection mingling in his eyes. "Harper, you certainly know how to make an entrance," he said, shaking his head in amusement.
Harper winked. "Only the best for you, love."
The group, momentarily stunned by Harper's grand arrival, broke into cheerful laughter and applause. Bianca snapped a quick photo of Harper's dramatic entrance, capturing the joy and surprise of the moment. "Now that's a shot to remember!" he exclaimed.
Vaughn, his heart now light with joy, gently took Harper's hand. "Come on, Harper, let's find a quieter spot," he said, his voice filled with tenderness. Harper, ever the showman, gave a theatrical bow to their friends before allowing Vaughn to lead him away from the crowd.
As they moved towards a more secluded area of the festival, Natalie's eyes widened with realization. She caught Vaughn's soft, determined look and quickly deduced his intentions. With a subtle yet knowing smile, she turned to the rest of the group and discreetly signaled them to follow. The friends, catching her cue, nodded eagerly and began to trail behind Vaughn and Harper at a respectful distance, their excitement barely contained.
The festival's lively ambiance faded into the background as Vaughn and Harper found themselves under a canopy of twinkling lights, the gentle hum of the evening creating a perfect setting. Vaughn paused and turned to face Harper, his eyes shimmering with a mix of anticipation and love.
Unbeknownst to them, their friends watched from a distance, their hearts pounding in unison with the thrilling secret they were about to witness.
Vaughn took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box, its presence both comforting and daunting. Taking Harper's hand, he knelt on one knee, the world around them dissolving into a blur of twinkling lights and hushed whispers.
"Harper," Vaughn began, his voice steady but filled with emotion, "from the moment I met you, my life has been brighter, fuller, and infinitely more joyful. You are my confidant, my partner, and my greatest love. Will you marry me?"
Harper's eyes widened, tears welling up as he looked down at Vaughn, his heart racing with joy. For a moment, time seemed to stand still. Then, with a radiant smile and a voice trembling with happiness, he answered, "Yes, Vaughn, a thousand times yes!"
As Vaughn slipped the ring onto Harper's finger, their friends, who had been watching in breathless anticipation, erupted into cheers and applause. The air filled with the sounds of celebration as Bianca, Natalie, and the others rushed forward, enveloping the newly engaged couple in a whirlwind of hugs and congratulations.
"Congratulations!" Bianca exclaimed, her camera flashing to capture the unforgettable moment. Natalie, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks, embraced them both, her heart swelling with happiness for her friends.
The festival seemed to sparkle even brighter as the group celebrated, their laughter and joy mingling with the music and lights. Vaughn and Harper stood at the center of it all, their love and happiness radiating outward, binding their friends together in a moment of pure, unbridled joy.