The ship, supported by billowing white clouds, slowly descended toward the port of Water 7.
By now, many citizens had gathered at the harbor, eagerly awaiting the return of their Mayor. Word from the Franky Family had spread: Iceburg-san was coming home today.
What the townsfolk didn't know was that Iceburg had been captured by the World Government; they naively believed he had been invited to build ships under official orders. Today was the day of triumph that Kiwu and Mozu had promised.
Franky was in high spirits. Iceburg had been rescued, his injuries fully healed. He strode to the bow of the ship, striking his signature pose.
"So many people here to see me? Seems I've been pretty Super this week. I'm feeling like a real star, how annoying~"
Lina glared at the narcissistic cyborg. "Don't get so full of yourself. People are here for their Mayor, not for your antics. Don't even think about stepping forward shamelessly."
Franky froze like a frosted eggplant, squatting on the deck and drawing circles in the air.
Rolan chuckled, glancing at Franky, who was as comical and perverted as ever, seemingly born for comic relief. He then turned to Iceburg.
"Your popularity is impressive. Almost every resident is here to greet you, Mayor. You haven't been in office long, have you?"
Iceburg scratched his forehead, a little embarrassed. "Well, don't say that. I'm just an ordinary shipwright."
Rolan shook his head and smirked. "Stop with the false modesty. Let's disembark."
As the group slowly descended, the crowd parted to form a clear path. Rolan felt uneasy, almost itchy, under the gaze of so many eyes. He pursed his lips, thinking, Is this what those big stars in my past life felt too?
The citizens cheered loudly as Iceburg and Rolan's group reached the ground.
"Mayor Iceburg, welcome back!"
"Mayor Iceburg, did your work go well?"
"Mayor, I heard your secretary was dismissed. My granddaughter may be young, but she's quite skilled."
"Lord Rolan, do you have a girlfriend?"
"Lord Rolan, will you stay in Water 7 permanently?"
Rolan inwardly wished he could disappear. Social interactions had never been his strong suit, and this crowd made him palpably uncomfortable.
Meanwhile, Franky, Crocodile, and Enel were happily greeting the masses, soaking in the adoration.
---
Finally escaping the throngs of people, Rolan exhaled deeply. The exhaustion rivaled that of fighting three Admirals at once.
Nami and Lina still held tightly onto his arms, clearly tense. During the crowd's passing, several girls had stared at Rolan with intense, almost predatory interest.
Enel, still reveling in the crowd's attention, boasted, "Yeahahaha, this feels incredible. The recognition of the people… it's divine!"
Robin tilted her head, smiling slightly. "What's wrong, Captain Rolan? You seem out of place for once."
Rolan shook his head helplessly. "Robin-chan, please stop teasing me. You know I dread this kind of attention."
Kiwu and Mozu stepped forward. "Mayor Iceburg, Big Brother Franky, Lord Rolan, we have prepared a welcome banquet for you."
Franky's eyes sparkled. "Super! Does that mean iced cola?"
Kiwu nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, plenty of it!"
"Hahaha, Kiwu, thank you," Franky said, his joy palpable, radiating like a two-ton memory alloy cyborg.
---
At the banquet, Rolan forked a piece of fish into his mouth and glanced at Iceburg seated at the head of the table.
"Iceburg, are you considering moving Water 7 to Sky Island?"
Iceburg fed a piece of cheese to a small white mouse, gently stroking it. The mouse squeaked happily.
He looked at Rolan and shook his head. "The World Government and Marines already know that Water 7 is under your crew's protection. Given your strength, they won't act recklessly."
Rolan puffed his cheeks. "Do not underestimate the World Government. Their hidden forces are beyond what either of us can imagine. Who knows if they might start a war over Pluton?"
Iceburg's expression turned serious. "Since they know I might have Pluton's blueprints, they realize no ordinary person would risk keeping such an item."
"That's true. They probably won't interfere," Rolan admitted.
Iceburg continued, "After this incident, the reputation of Water 7 and your crew will rise to unprecedented levels. Business orders will increase, and the people's quality of life will improve."
Rolan stared at Iceburg for a long moment, then sighed. He's made up his mind. I won't force him to move Water 7.
Kuro spoke from the side. "Rolan, we needn't worry. The World Government isn't foolish; they know we have Pluton's blueprints. They'll understand the threat and leave Water 7 alone."
Rolan considered this, then nodded. "Then remain vigilant. Watch over the city yourselves."
---
After the banquet, Rolan's group returned to the single suites Iceburg had prepared.
A full day of battle and aerial travel had drained them. While senzu beans restored physical injuries, mental fatigue remained.
Zoro returned to the ship's gravity room on his own; the rest stayed in their rooms to rest.
The night was cool and calm. Water 7, bustling during the day, now echoed only with the soft sound of flowing water.
Above, the full moon hung in a deep blue sky, casting gentle light across the city, bathing the canals in peace.
Knock knock knock.
"Is that… Robin?"
______
Happy New Year!
The number of power stones I get is pretty low lately, which is kind of funny in its own way.
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