The Charm of Water Seven #129

Garp walked through the ornate corridors of the royal palace, his marine escort trailing behind him. As they approached the grand chamber, the doors swung open, revealing King Neptune seated on his throne, regal and imposing. Garp entered the room, his posture upright and respectful, and approached the king with a salute.

"King Neptune..." Garp greeted, his voice carrying the weight of his title for a change. "Thank you for agreeing to see us..."

King Neptune nodded graciously, his expression warm. "Vice Admiral Garp, the legendary marine. Welcome to the Ryugu Kingdom. I trust your journey here was uneventful-jamon?"

Garp returned the nod, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Indeed. The sea has been relatively calm."

King Neptune leaned forward, his eyes narrowing with curiosity. "Tell me, Vice Admiral Garp, what brings you to Fishman Island? Is there a matter of concern that requires the presence of the Marines?"

Garp's gaze softened, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Actually, Your Majesty, I'm here to see someone... Cedric."

Garp's words hung in the air, creating a momentary pause in the grand chamber. King Neptune's eyes widened in surprise, only to frown as he processed the information.

"Cedric, as in the young pirate who saved my daughter and the entirety of Fishman Island from Vander Deckens?" King Neptune remarked, his eyes narrowing. "I hope you're not here to make things difficult for our benefactor-jamon...."

Garp's eyes widened at King Neptune's words, but he quickly nodded with a smile. "That's the one," he said with an amused chuckle. "You see, the little brat is my student, and I'm only here to see what he's been up to..."

King Neptune's stern expression softened. He leaned back on his throne, a sense of appreciation in his voice. "Then you are most welcome here... but it must be difficult for a marine such yourself that your student would to turn to piracy...."

Garp's smile remained unchanged as he met King Neptune's gaze. "Difficult? Not at all, Your Majesty," he replied, his voice steady. "In fact, I don't really care about Cedric turning into a pirate."

The room fell into stunned silence, the air thick with disbelief. The notion of a renowned Marine Vice Admiral showing indifference toward piracy was unthinkable.

Garp continued, his tone resolute. "The little brat's path is his own to choose. As long as he keeps flying straight, that's fine by me whether he becomes a pirate or a damned ballerina. And let me tell you, he did nothing wrong by punching that Celestial scumbag..."

A collective gasp echoed through the grand chamber. The fishmen in attendance exchanged bewildered, horrified glances, their eyes wide with astonishment. Even King Neptune seemed taken aback by Garp's audacity.

Realizing the shock he had caused, Garp couldn't help but laugh heartily. He scratched the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. "Well, well, I may have spoken too brazenly," he admitted, his laughter fading. "Please forget what I just said..."

King Neptune's initial surprise turned into a mixture of amusement and curiosity. He leaned forward, a smile tugging at his lips. "Indeed, it would be better for everyone's sake if we forget what you just said-jamon..."

Garp's grin widened, the tension in the room easing as the atmosphere grew lighter. "I appreciate your understanding. Now, where Cedric, I promised an old friend I'd give the little brat a knock on the head on his behalf..."

King Neptune's smile grew wider as he leaned back in his throne. "I'm afraid Cedric has already left Fishman Island," he explained. "But fear not, Vice Admiral Garp, he's bound to return sooner or later. In fact, I offer you the hospitality of Fishman Island while you wait for his arrival."

Garp shook his head, declining the offer. "Thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty, but I have pressing matters to attend to in the East Blue. I need to visit my grandsons."

King Neptune nodded understandingly. "Family is important, Vice Admiral. I respect your decision. However, I can see you're curious. I wouldn't mind bringing you up to speed if you wish. It's the least I could do-jamon..."

Garp's nodded. He settled into a nearby chair, signaling his willingness to listen. King Neptune began to recount the events that transpired when Cedric and his crew shipwrecked and found themselves on Fishman Island.

...

One week later

The Silver Gale sailed steadily through the calm waters, its sails billowing in the gentle breeze. Cedric and his crew stood on the deck, their eyes fixed on the horizon ahead. They were nearing Water Seven, a city known for its intricate waterways and bustling trade. The island's unique architecture and vibrant colors were a sight to behold, and anticipation filled the air as they approached their destination.

As the ship drew closer to the island, the distinct features of Water Seven began to come into view. Canals crisscrossed the city, serving as its lifelines and main thoroughfares.

These waterways acted as transportation routes akin to roads and were lined with sidewalks, bustling with activity. Citizens of Water Seven moved about on Bulls, seahorse-like creatures attached to boats, gracefully gliding through the canals.

Cedric marveled at the sight, taking in the colorful cityscape. The architecture stood out, with buildings boasting walls and roofs painted in hues of tan and peach. Nearly all red and semi-circular, the countless rooftops added a touch of whimsy to the landscape.

Tiered and compact, the neat houses stood as a testament to the city's ingenuity, allowing more residences to fit within the limited space while accommodating the city's tendency to sink.

The Silver Gale approached the city's waterways, and a lone fisherman appeared on the nearest waterway. He waved his hands, signaling the crew to come closer. Cedric ordered the ship to slow down as they neared the fisherman's boat.

The fisherman, weathered by the sea, had a warm. "Ahoy there, travelers!" he called out. "Welcome to Water Seven! Head to the pirate port at the back of the island if you're lookin' for a place to dock. It's strictly for pirates, ye see."

Cedric nodded in understanding and appreciation. "Thanks for the info, old timer. We'll do just that..."

With a final wave, the fisherman continued his journey, disappearing into the labyrinthine waterways of the city. The Silver Gale changed course, navigating through the canals with precision. The crew marveled at the architectural wonders around them, the tiered houses and colorful rooftops blending harmoniously with the vibrant atmosphere of Water Seven.

As they ventured deeper into the city, the sights and sounds of the bustling streets filled their senses. Bulls of various sizes dotted the canals, carrying locals and tourists alike. Some shops along the waterways offered bull rentals, though the King Bulls were seldom available due to their immense size.

Merchants and artisans lined the streets, their stalls displaying a vast array of goods and crafts. Colorful flags fluttered in the breeze, adding a festive touch to the lively scene. The aroma of street food wafted through the air, tempting the crew with the tantalizing scents of freshly cooked delicacies.

Cedric couldn't help but be captivated by the unique charm of Water Seven. He marveled at the seamless blend of functionality and beauty, where canals served as the city's lifeblood, ensuring its residents moved swiftly and efficiently.

As the Silver Gale finally docked at the pirate port, Cedric and his crew disembarked, their footsteps resonating on the wooden pier.

Cedric gathered his crew together, their expressions as varied as their personalities. He addressed them with a firm tone. "Alright, everyone, we've arrived at Water Seven, so let's get to work.

Duval, I want you and the guys to spread out across the city and get the lay of the land. Keep an eye out for anything useful and keep me in the loop..." He instructed

Duval nodded with a confident grin. "Consider it done, Captain! I, Duval The Handsome, will see it done at any cost..." He declared, only to trail off as he seemed to realize something. "Unless that cost is my face!" He added, causing Cedric to roll his eyes.

Ignoring the Narssistic Duval, Cedric turned his attention to Kieran, his sharp and resourceful crew member. "Kieran, I need you to gather as much information as possible about Iceberg and the Galley-la company. Our targets are the CP9 agents. Look for any irregularities with the company's staff..."

Kieran calmly nodded without saying anything.

Cedric's gaze then shifted to Baby Five. "Baby Five, you're free to do as you please. Just make sure you don't cause too much trouble, alright?"

A mischievous grin spread across Baby Five's face as she leaned towards Kieran, much to his bemusement. "I think I'll tag along with Kieran, Captain. Who knows what trouble we can find together?"

Cedric chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "Alright, you two. Just remember to keep focused on the task at hand."

With the assignments given, Cedric turned his attention to himself and Den. "Chucn and I will be staying guard over the ship. So You can do as you please..." He said, patting the giant sparrow's head.

Den shrugged. "I doubt there's much good I can do here, and I don't want to attract any unwanted attention... I'll stick around the ship if you don't mind..."

"Suit yourself..." Cedric replied, nodding at Den and turning to the others. "Alright, everyone knows what to do. Go on then, scatter..."