Chapter 19: Chapter 19: The Journey to Arlong Park
The Going Merry cut through the waves, its sail catching the wind as the crew braced themselves for their next battle. The air was thick with tension, yet determination burned in the eyes of the Straw Hats. This time, it wasn't about a rival pirate crew or proving themselves—it was about saving a friend.
Nami sat at the ship's edge, staring at the sea. She had stopped crying, but the sorrow in her eyes remained. The rest of the crew gave her space, knowing she needed time. Sanji, however, refused to stand idly by. With a flourish, he approached her with a tray carrying a warm plate of food.
"Nami-chwan, you need to eat," he said softly, kneeling beside her. "A beauty like you shouldn't let tears dull that radiant face."
She didn't respond immediately, but after a moment, she sighed and took the plate. "Thanks, Sanji."
He beamed. "Anything for you, my dear!"
From the other side of the ship, Zoro scoffed. "Tch. We're heading into battle, and all you can think about is flirting?"
Sanji shot him a glare. "You wouldn't understand, moss-head! Comforting a lady in distress is a true man's duty."
Usopp watched the exchange and sighed. "Here we go again…"
Luffy stood at the front of the ship, gazing at the horizon. He clenched his fists, his carefree smile replaced with a rare seriousness. He turned to the crew. "We're not just fighting some random pirate. Arlong is dangerous. But that doesn't matter. We're going to win."
Johnny and Yosaku, who had been guiding them toward Arlong Park, nodded. "Arlong is no joke," Johnny said. "He's got a whole crew of Fish-Men, each stronger than a regular human."
"Doesn't matter," Zoro said, gripping his swords. "If they get in my way, I'll cut them down."
Usopp gulped. "I-I mean, we're definitely going to win! But, uh… Fish-Men, huh? Sounds pretty scary…"
Luffy grinned. "That's why we'll fight together."
As they neared their destination, the waters grew eerily calm. The once bright sky seemed dimmer, as if the ocean itself knew of the terror that awaited. The island came into view, and in the distance, the silhouette of a massive sea cow-like figure loomed near the shore.
Johnny's eyes widened in fear. "Oh no… That's Momoo! Arlong's pet sea monster!"
The giant creature bellowed, sending ripples through the water. It glared at the ship, preparing to charge.
Luffy cracked his knuckles. "Looks like we've got a warm-up before Arlong."
With Nami's fate on the line, the battle for Arlong Park was about to begin.