The lifeboat scraped onto the edge of Alabasta's coast with a harsh grind of wood and sand. The moment they set foot on land, the air hit them differently—dry and abrasive, carrying heat that clung to skin like dust. The breeze offered no relief; it was more like a breath from an oven. The fine sand beneath their feet clung to every step and sank beneath the weight of their boots.
Nami lifted her sleeve to cover her face. "Welcome to the desert…"
Usopp collapsed to his knees, digging his fingers into the gritty earth. "It's dry. It's hot. It's horrible. I love it!"
Zoro took a single look around, then adjusted his bandana to shield his neck. "We're gonna roast."
Luffy remained quiet, standing at the bow of the beached boat. His eyes scanned the dunes ahead, his stance wide and steady. The heat distorted the horizon, making the world ripple like a mirage. Shadows swirled faintly beneath his feet—his system responding to the sudden shift in climate, silently stabilizing his body.
Vivi adjusted the scarf around her neck and stepped forward. "Nanohana is over those dunes. We move fast, stay together, and keep our heads down. Baroque agents blend in with everyone—civilians, soldiers… even the merchants."
Her voice was calm, but her eyes were constantly moving—checking for movement in the dunes, listening for unusual footsteps.
The crew followed her lead.
The trek was rough. Each gust of wind blew fine sand into their eyes and mouths. Sweat formed instantly, only to dry just as quickly. The sun pounded from above like a hammer. The deeper they moved into the sand, the more oppressive the heat became.
By the time the stone buildings of Nanohana rose ahead, they were covered in grit and silence.
The city itself felt strangely subdued.
Awning-covered stalls lined the main streets, their colors faded under the desert sun. A few merchants barked half-heartedly, their voices tight. Most people moved quickly, faces half-covered, eyes cast low. Armed guards leaned near entrances, their gazes sharp but uninterested in friendly greetings.
"Feels off," Sanji murmured, adjusting his collar.
"It's like the air is afraid," Usopp whispered.
They walked carefully through the outer market, careful not to draw attention. Vivi kept her hood low, fingers lightly brushing the dagger hidden under her shawl. Zoro scanned every corner. Nami studied the layout of the streets, memorizing alleys and rooftops. Luffy's steps were slow, deliberate, like every instinct was bracing for something.
They entered a shaded café near the edge of the bazaar. Inside, the heat lessened slightly under the worn canopy. The scent of grilled meat and ground cumin hung in the air, but few patrons spoke.
Sanji ordered in a low, smooth voice. The waiter didn't smile—he simply nodded and walked away, eyes flicking once toward Vivi's face before disappearing into the back.
"They know something," Nami said, voice barely above a whisper.
"They're waiting for something," Vivi corrected. Her hand trembled briefly before she forced it steady.
"Like the city's sitting on a fuse," Zoro muttered.
The food arrived, and the group kept their heads low while eating. But the tension outside continued to rise.
A loud crash echoed just beyond the canvas wall.
Chairs scraped back in unison as they stood and rushed to the street.
A crowd had gathered near a narrow street intersection. Two uniformed guards had tackled a young man to the ground. His white scarf was torn, his face bruised and bleeding. Still, he screamed at them, "The king's betrayed us! We fight for the people!"
Whispers rippled through the crowd.
Vivi's eyes widened. "That voice…"
Usopp gasped. "They're gonna beat him to death!"
The boy thrashed, trying to break free. One guard struck him across the ribs. The other pulled his arm back for another punch.
Vivi stepped forward before she could stop herself. "Stop!"
The crowd's murmurs cut short.
The guards turned.
And froze.
Recognition flashed across their faces.
"Princess Vivi?"
Silence fell like a blade.
Vivi backed up one step, too late to pretend she hadn't spoken.
Sanji moved to her side instantly. "Well, that blew our cover."
Luffy stepped in front of her.
The guards reached for their weapons.
Zoro's hand drifted to his swords.
No one moved.
No one spoke.
Then one of the guards shouted.
"Baroque Works!"
And his blade left its sheath.
[End of Chapter 120]
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