170 Departure #170

As the morning sunlight filtered through the intricately designed windows of his guest chamber within the grand Alubarna palace, Cedric slowly stirred from his slumber. With a soft yawn escaping his lips, he stretched his arms above his head, the soft fabric of the sheets caressing his skin. The events of the previous day floated back into his conscious thoughts.

Vivi and Igaram's arrival had marked a turning point, a confirmation of Gem and Nico Robin's past affiliations as members of the elusive Baroque Works organization. The puzzle pieces finally fell into place, and Cedric couldn't help but chuckle as he remembered Vivi's shocked face upon seeing Gem and Nico Robin.

Sitting up, Cedric rubbed his eyes, his mind replaying the scene of King Cobra presenting him with the agreed-upon reward of 50 million Beri. The weight of the suitcase full of cash had been substantial in his hand, a tangible symbol of his success and the value of his services. Yet, even with his desire to set sail once more, the gracious monarch had extended an invitation that Cedric found hard to refuse.

The notion of a banquet, a simple gesture of gratitude, had been proposed by King Cobra himself. It was a token of appreciation and a gesture to honor Cedric's efforts in unraveling the truth behind Baroque Works and their nefarious schemes.

Cedric had initially harbored intentions of swift departure, eager to resume his journey and explore the mysteries of the Grand Line. Yet, King Cobra's insistence and the genuine warmth that emanated from him had swayed Cedric's resolve.

On the other hand, Gem and Nico Robin opted not to linger. Their departure had been met with understanding, their duty to the reformed Baroque Works compelling them to answer a different call. Cedric knew he'd have to meet them again before departing Alabasta, so he didn't stop them either.

With the morning light filtering through the windows, casting a warm glow across his room, Cedric completed his usual routine. He splashed cool water on his face, the droplets refreshing his senses as he contemplated the day ahead. After brushing his teeth and donning comfortable attire, he felt the anticipation building within him. Today promised new experiences, and he was eager to embrace them.

A soft knock on the door roused Cedric from his thoughts, and with a quick stride, he reached the entrance. As he swung the door open, his eyes met the sight of Princess Vivi standing before him. She exuded an air of casual elegance, dressed in a summery dress that seemed to perfectly capture the spirit of the day. Cedric's lips curved into a genuine smile at the sight of her.

"And here I thought I'd have to wake you up," Vivi remarked, a hint of surprise dancing in her eyes as she took in Cedric's appearance. It was clear that he had been awake and ready for a while, a testament to his well-honed sense of discipline.

Cedric chuckled, his laughter a melodic undercurrent in the air. "I'm confident in my stamina above everything else," he retorted playfully, his eyes locking with Vivi's.

He couldn't help but find amusement in her assumption, and he quirked an eyebrow as he continued, "Still, you thought I'd be tired and decided to wake me up anyway." He let a faux expression of offense cross his features as he concluded, "Don't you think that's somewhat rude?"

Unperturbed by his mock indignation, Vivi's grin only widened. Her eyes sparkled with mirth as she met Cedric's gaze head-on. "That's because the royal palace has better alternatives for rest and relaxation than sleep!" she declared with a playful enthusiasm that was contagious. With a graceful gesture, she beckoned Cedric to join her, her excitement palpable as she continued, "The banquet isn't until dinner time, so we have plenty of hours to explore the wonders of the palace!"

Vivi's words were an invitation, a promise of new discoveries and shared moments. Without further ado, she started to walk, her dress swaying gently with each step. Her voice, filled with genuine eagerness, echoed in the corridor as she concluded, "Come on, I'll be your guide and show you around!"

Cedric's eyes rolled in mock exasperation, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. As he fell into step beside Vivi, he couldn't resist the opportunity for a playful retort. "Your wish is my command, your highness," he intoned with a feigned bow, his tone laced with a touch of theatricality.

...

On Sixis Island, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, Masked Deuce's expression was a canvas of pride and accomplishment. His gaze was fixed on the remarkable creation before him, a vessel that held the promise of freedom and escape. Beside him, Ace stood, his features a mix of curiosity and bewilderment, his eyes trained on the peculiar boat that would serve as their ticket off the island.

The boat itself was a marvel of ingenuity and resourcefulness. A yellow raft, its design resembled a graceful half-crescent. The craftsmanship was evident in every detail. Paddle wheels adorned its sides, ready to churn the waters, while a small sail billowed at the rear, poised to catch the wind. Yet, the centerpiece of this innovative contraption was the main seat positioned in the heart of the raft, a throne from which Ace would command this unique vessel.

Masked Deuce's grin expanded, his pride practically radiating from him as he turned to Ace, his voice laced with enthusiasm. "I present to you, Striker—a boat designed solely for you!" His words held a note of accomplishment, a reflection of the effort and dedication he had poured into this creation.

Ace's brows furrowed in a mix of admiration and confusion. The boat's name resonated with him, an emblem of its purpose, yet its functionality remained a mystery. His fingers scratched his head, a sign of his bemusement. "That's a cool name," he began, "but how does it work, and how will it get us out of here?"

Deuce cleared his throat, stepping into the role of an inventor eager to explain his creation. "Using the scrap metal we've gathered from the beach," he began, his tone carrying a hint of pride, "I've built and installed an engine that would absorb and redirect your devil fruit flames."

His hand gestured toward the engine situated at the back of the boat, a testament to his skill and ingenuity. He continued, his voice confident and steady, "Utilizing the power of those flames, the engine will propel the boat with enough force to break through the swirling sea currents that encompass this island."

Ace's features slowly shifted, understanding dawning upon him, though uncertainty still lingered. "So it's a mystery boat that's powered by a mystery engine," he mused aloud, his words a blend of curiosity and acceptance.

Deuce's eyes twitched for a moment, a fleeting reaction to Ace's description, but he reigned in his irritation. He chose instead to offer a pragmatic response, his tone even and patient. "Exactly," he affirmed, a hint of satisfaction coloring his voice.

With a gentle push, Deuce urged Ace closer to the boat, a silent invitation to embark on this journey of discovery. His words carried an urgency that spoke of readiness. "Now, let's hurry up and get out of here before I starve to death," he quipped with a wry smile, his practicality merging seamlessly with his determination.

Ace pushed the boat's edge, the vessel responding with a gentle creak as it glided smoothly into the water. With Striker now afloat, Ace's maneuvered himself aboard.

Positioned at the boat's center was a slightly elevated platform. As Ace climbed onto it, he became acutely aware of the confined space, his frame snug within the boundaries of the vessel.

It would be impossible for Deuce to fit into the boat alongside him. Even if that were possible, Deuce would not survive the trip as moving Striker required Ace to use his devil fruit powers.

With an air of practical concern, Ace turned his attention to the absent Deuce, his voice tinged with genuine inquiry. "Hey, where will you sit—" he began, his sentence hanging in the air as he caught sight of Deuce's ingenious solution. His words transformed into a hearty chuckle as he watched Deuce navigate the boat's unique design.

Deuce's agile form swung over the compact mast, a display of dexterity that brought him atop the sails. Perched there, he assumed a seated position, his posture an embodiment of adaptability and resourcefulness. It was a sight that effortlessly encapsulated Deuce's spirit—a willingness to make the most of any situation, regardless of its challenges.

Amusement danced within Ace's eyes as he witnessed Deuce's acrobatics. He couldn't help but appreciate the way his friend always managed to find a solution, no matter how unconventional. "Come on, hurry up, and let's get out of here!" Ace's voice, infused with both impatience and exhilaration, carried across the water, urging Deuce to hasten their departure.

...

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