"Crocodile is one of the Seven Warlords too?!"
No big deal.
If even Hawkeye wasn't Reno's match, Crocodile was at best on the same level.
This was the collective thought of all the girls.
Crocodile: Thanks for the high opinion.
"Captain, can you really take down Crocodile for me?!" Vivi asked urgently, clinging to the hope like a lifeline.
If Reno had someone infiltrating an organization as secretive as Baroque Works, even working right under Crocodile's nose, his strength must be incredible.
Compared to crushing Crocodile's schemes and saving countless people, joining the Reno Pirates was nothing.
"Just a little crocodile," Reno scoffed.
Calling Crocodile a "50-50" match was giving him too much credit.
If Reno didn't beat the stuffing out of him, he'd consider it a clean fight.
"If that's the case, I'm willing to join your crew." Vivi wiped the tears from her eyes, her tear-streaked face now resolute.
At 14, she'd hidden her princess identity and infiltrated the dangerous Baroque Works to uncover the mastermind.
But even knowing it was Crocodile, she lacked the power for revenge.
Now, with the opportunity before her, she'd do anything to save Alabasta.
It was her duty as a princess.
"Alabasta's lucky to have a princess like you," Makino said, gently pulling Vivi into a comforting hug. "Don't worry, Vivi. When the captain brought you to Twin Cape, he already planned to help you."
"Huh?!" Vivi blinked, stunned.
Reno rubbed his forehead, chuckling. "Don't make me sound like some savior. Either way, Vivi's joining the crew.
As for Crocodile, he's gotten too cocky. I'll skin that crocodile while I'm at it."
"Vivi, we're family now. I'm Nami, the Reno Pirates' navigator."
"I'm Kaya, the ship's doctor."
"I'm Tashigi, the crew's swordswoman."
"…"
The girls introduced themselves warmly.
Vivi stared at them, dumbfounded.
Are they all this friendly?!
Especially Nami—moments ago, she was grilling her, and now she was all sweet and sisterly.
"I'm Vivi. Please take care of me, sisters," she replied politely, despite her inner grumbling.
"Carue, make some food. Vivi must be starving," Reno said.
Gurgle~
Gurgle~
As if on cue, Vivi's stomach growled loudly, her face flushing.
She was starving.
"Wait here, little sister. I'll whip something up," Carue said, fondly patting Vivi's head before bustling to the kitchen.
"Kaya, take Vivi to wash up and change her clothes."
To blend into Baroque Works, Vivi wore heavy makeup and eye-catching clothes.
"Got it, Reno-brother," Kaya nodded obediently, taking Vivi's hand and leading her to the bathroom.
Vivi was in a daze the whole time. Is this the Reno Pirates?
How was this crew so different from what she knew about pirates?
But… it didn't seem bad.
…
Whisky Peak
The island was a hub for bounty hunters who preyed on passing pirates.
Over the years, countless unsuspecting pirates had been killed and buried here.
Reno guided the Going Merry down slowly, greeted by crowds on both sides.
Their eyes flickered curiously at the island cloud but quickly masked it.
Then they waved enthusiastically at Reno's group.
"Hahaha, weary travelers, rest here!"
"This is a pirate's paradise—everything you need for a good time!"
"You'll have unforgettable memories!"
"Cures insomnia too!"
"…"
Cheers rang out endlessly.
Unwary pirates might genuinely think this was a welcoming town.
"Everyone, be careful. They specialize in hunting passing pirates. We're already their targets," Vivi whispered, covering her mouth.
Her face reddened—she'd been one of them not long ago.
"They're good at pretending," Nami said, smirking at the crowd.
No surprise, it's their livelihood.
If they weren't convincing, they'd have starved.
"Let's check it out."
The Going Merry docked, and Reno led the girls ashore.
The crowd's eyes flashed with a subtle glint before they rushed to greet them.
"Brave warriors of the sea, welcome!"
"All pirates who come to this town receive our warmest welcome—applause!"
Clap, clap, clap!
The applause was thunderous.
No wonder other pirates fell for it.
Just then, the crowd parted, and a man with golden wavy hair stepped forward.
Spotting Vivi, he gave her an approving look.
The next moment, he put on a show. "Miss Wednesday, are these your friends?!"
"Well done! Let them feel our hospitality!"
Pfft!
Nami couldn't hold back her laughter.
Kaya and the others smiled too.
Vivi covered her face, mortified, wishing she could disappear.
Mr. Igaram, stop talking! You're blowing my cover!
So embarrassing.