//------------------------------// // Farewell, Big Bro! // Story: My Little Pony: Nakama is Magic // by Hotspot the 626th //------------------------------// Luffy & Twilight: We’re always shining, running, forever Sharing the best adventures together And as we follow our dreams however crazy they seem We won’t stop until we reach the end so Wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up heartbeat! We are the one! Go ahead! My Little Pony Nakama is Magic The only rule that we obey is to run free Mane Six plus Spike (chorus): We are best friends Don’t ever let a compass show you the way to go Just pick the route that looks the most exciting! Raise the flag and sail on full speed ahead Straw Hat 7 (chorus): Go east, go west It doesn’t matter who or what’s standing in our way, We’ll make it through them everyday You won’t get anywhere if you’re waiting for the sun to rise All (chorus): I can’t wait So spread your wings and meet it in the sky, leave earth below Just follow its light and get going, go! So as we’re Shining, Running, Forever! When all the pieces of our dreams have merged You’ll feel a joy inside that you can’t explain And that’s the treasure we must find! We’re always shining, running, forever Sharing the best adventures together And as we follow our dreams however crazy they seem We won’t stop until we reach the end so Wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up heartbeat. We are the one! Go ahead! Last time on My Little Pony: Nakama is Magic… “Princess Celestia.” Akainu greeted with contempt. Holding him in the same regard, Celestia greeted back, “Fleet Admiral Akainu.” Akainu ignored the admiral. He instead asked angrily to the princess, “Why are you here?” “Protecting Equestria’s friends.” Celestia stated serious. “You would side with criminals!” shouted Akainu in outrage. “I would side with my pupil, her dear friends, and everything that they stand for.” Celestia affirmed unabashed. “For I trust them as much as my advisors and soldiers.” Akainu looked back at the princess, outraged. “You dare…!” “I may speak softly, Fleet Admiral,” Celestia said poised. Then, her necklace jewel began to glow, mentally activated by herself. “But I also carry a big stick.” XXX “Let’s beat the hell outta those punks.” Then, Garp was suddenly hit by a thrown, folded-up, paper fan. “Ow!” He shouted immediately in pain. “Honestly, Garp.” Tsuru said in reproach, having been the one to throw the fan. “We’re not here to start a war.” As he rubbed his goose-egg lump, Garp whined childishly, “That’s basically what she said to prepare for. You know that.” Tsuru replied with silence. Neither denying nor agreeing with the stallion out of principle and disgusted by the idea of a war occurring. “Nonetheless,” Sengoku spoke as he peered ahead at their princess. He could see she was not alone and that she had some dangerous company. But he was not afraid; only concerned. “Let us go to our princess’ side.” XXX “Whoa, Franky got one too.” Luffy said amazed. “And it’s bigger than Twilight’s too!” Pinkie Pie stated surprised. “Yeah,” Zambai said worriedly, “that’s the problem.” “So, we’re begging you….!” Zambai spoke before dropping to his knees. Tamagon and Kiev quickly joined with their leader. The others of their group soon followed all attempting to appeal to the Straw Hats. “Please! Take our Big Bro out to sea with you!” Farewell, Big Bro! Franky Joins the Straw Hat crew “Rah!” roared Garp enraged, as he attempted to attack the Black Navy’s fleet admiral. The only thing stopping him currently was Sengoku, doing his best to keep the aggravated general from starting an all-out war. “Control yourself Garp!” shouted Sengoku commandingly. Garp ignored the command. He thus shouted towards Akainu, “You hotheaded bastard!” At this, all Akainu responded with was an unapologetic “Hmph”. At which, only made the Earth pony general even more enraged. While Sengoku continued to work to hold back Garp, Admiral Tsuru stood beside Princess Celestia. Her hoof on her face for what may have been minutes in utter embarrassment for her colleagues. As for Celestia herself, she shared the same sentiment as her fellow mare. Though, neither could really fault Garp completely for his reaction. When the three senior officers arrived, their ship docking along the side of Blue Station, they had been greeted immediately with yelling from Akainu. The Diamond Dog was furious at their intervention of his “justice”. None of them however were very intimidated it by it though. Garp even responded back; badgering and teasing the younger creature with such nicknames like “Magma Pup”. Thankfully, Sengoku had threatened him into behaving; but unfortunately, it would not last long. Both Celestia and Akainu had separately brought up the new wanted posters that the Navy had just issued. The first one shown – the actual first one shown – was the one for Twilight Sparkle, the aptly named “Sorceress Supreme”. Celestia had not been pleased to see this earlier; so, when Garp learned of this he was of course furious. His parental overprotectiveness on full display, though only really clear to those who knew him on a personal level. “If you laid a single hoof on my granddaughter, I’ll…!” “General Garp!” Celestia shouted finally, silencing the angry stallion. Calmly, she then explained to him, “Twilight, Luffy, and their crew are fine. Not a single one of their personnel have entered the city.” Though he listened, Garp was still mad. He did however cease his attempts to attack the canine. As Sengoku eased up on his friend, Garp stood back up straight now just glaring at the red Diamond Dog. Akainu then made a curt comment, “Unprofessional.” He did not care that it had just aggravated the stallion, and others, further. He then spoke even more dismissively, “You and your family should’ve been wiped off the face of the Earth.” This asseveration maddened Celestia. “Don’t you dare think that you--” “We get enough problems from your son Dragon,” Akainu interrupted still speaking to the general, “and now it seems your grandson and granddaughter are causing as much trouble.” Garp immediately scoffed at the statement. “What my son and grandson do is none of my concern.” He stated disinterestedly. “And it’s that lack of control over your family that makes you weak.” Akainu declared assuredly. Surprisingly, Garp remained completely apathetic. The assertions towards his family meant nothing to him. Thus, Sengoku spoke up, “Enough of these trivial family matters, Akainu. You know that we do not condone the actions of Monkey D. Dragon nor his group, the Revolutionaries.” “Yes,” Akainu said skeptical, “so you’ve informed us.” Despite the suspicion, Sengoku continued all the same. “Thus, we’re here to talk you down from starting a war.” He stated warningly. Immediately, Akainu wrinkled his brow with confusion. “What do you mean?” He asked in disdain. From behind the Equestria group, a voice proclaimed out through the intercommunication devices. “Water 7 is now officially allied with the kingdom of Equestria.” Everyone turned to see that it was Iceberg – the real one – approaching them calmly. As he stepped out of the station, the crowd of Water 7 immediately cheered out for their mayor and hero. As he joined with the other ponies, he was greeted gracefully by Celestia. “Hello, Mayor Iceberg.” “Mwell, a pleasure to meet you in person, Princess Celestia.” Iceberg greeted smiling. Now confused and angry, Akainu asked out loudly, “What is the meaning of this?!” Phlegmatic, Iceberg answered, “Mwell, I just decided that Water 7 could no longer remain neutral after my attempted assassination from the Black Empire.” He then glared at the fleet admiral, showing his contempt and distrust. “Thus,” Iceberg continued calmly, “I felt it necessary to join along with many other kingdoms and countries and join in an alliance with Equestria.” “This is outrageous!” shouted Akainu enraged. “You!” Akainu said accusingly to Celestia. “This is far too coincidental to mere happenstance, you planned this!” Celestia however did not look guilty; only self-assured. “We have always been open to new alliances and friendships, Fleet Admiral. It was your lack of action and foresight, and your system’s corruption that allowed for this to happen.” Before Akainu could speak, clearly to voice his disapproval and anger, the sudden appearance of Kuma stopped him. All the Navy soldiers jerked back in shock as the large ogre just instantaneously appeared near the two arguing parties. And yet, none of officers or the princess herself had been caught off-guard. They did however give the creature there attention as it did seem surprising that he did appear suddenly. It was not until they all saw what was in his hand did they figure out why he had shown himself. In his hand, which one could see his unique paws, he held a Transponder Snail with the received in the other. “Kuma.” Akainu said warningly towards the Warlord. The ogre spoke into the receiver, “I have the Fleet Admiral here.” The snail, in response to speaker on the other side, then began speaking. “Good.” responded the speaker, who sounded old. He then continued speaking directly to Akainu, “Fleet Admiral Akainu, we need you to cease and desist your actions at once.” “What?!” roared Akainu. “Ah,” spoke Tsuru recognizing the voice, “seems like the Emperor’s Five Elder Stars have finally taken notice.” “Oh ho,” said Kizaru teasingly, “looks like Akainu’s ready to blow his top. Scary~” Stepping up to Kuma, Akainu snatched the dial from the ogre. He began shouting enraged, “You can’t be serious?! The Emperor himself--” “We are rescinding whatever order the Emperor has given you.” A different but similarly old voice announced shrewdly. Another voice spoke next. “The news of this alliance is startling, but we will not risk going to war with Equestria over your damaged pride.” “I won’t accept this!” roared Akainu stubbornly. “You have no choice, Fleet Admiral,” demanded another voice sternly. “This operation was already a poorly thought-out plan, and now it’s becoming a debacle.” Finally, one more new voice spoke, “We’ve already lost the Alabasta Kingdom and the former Drum Kingdom to this alliance along with Water 7. Already, the Cipher Pols are reporting more nations and kingdoms whispering about leaving. This attack will be the nail in the coffin of the Black Empire’s downfall.” “As well as your resignation, Fleet Admiral” The first voice added to be strictly clear on the consequences. Akainu shook and clenched his paw around the receiver in anger. It was taking all his self-control not to yell and roar into the receiver; even more so to stop him from turning all of Water 7 into a volcanic island. “Orders…” He said with a pause before forcibly continuing with, “Received.” “Good.” The first voice said pleased. Completely humiliated and disgruntled, Akainu unceremoniously dropped the dial instead of placing on the snail. He then turned to the princess as he quickly affirmed his position. “Once those pirates leave Water 7, they are completely free game.” He stated with all seriousness. “You may have saved Water 7 from its fate, but those pirates are still criminals in the eyes of the Empire and will not be allowed to roam freely.” Celestia attempted to argue back. “You can’t--” “Of course we can.” Akainu stated assuredly. “Pirates are pirates, and all pirates must be brought to justice.” “Princess!” Sengoku spoke quickly as he trotted up to the Alicorn. As Celestia looked at him confused, the stallion on shook his head disapprovingly. He spoke calmly though also a little grimly, “It’s out of our hooves.” For once, Akainu finally was pleased by something. Though he did not smile or show any sort of positive emotion over it, his somewhat calmed demeanor was enough to show his overall pride in that his justice could be served forthwith. Thus, not needing to say more, the canine took his leave from the group and headed up to his ship. He saw no more need to remain there with his occupation called off. Of course, Akainu’s demeanor had left Celestia in one foul mood. “That arrogant son of a bitch,” she said under her breath. “Princess!” Sengoku said warningly. “So,” Overhearing her, the first voice spoke over the Transponder snail. He sounded intrigued as he continued saying, “you are there, Princess Celestia.” Seeing that she was being addressed, Celestia stepped up to the ogre. Once close enough, she levitated the receiver up with her magic and began to respond back. “Yes, I am here. What do you need?” “Since we have you, a warning.” The fourth voice replied back seriously. The second voice then spoke, “Do not think this little trick has placed you at some sort of advantage. The Empire has still has more than 70 other kingdoms within our folds. We will not show weakness.” Not one to be intimidated, Celestia responded back with contempt to the group, “Inform the Emperor that he best watch what he does from now on. His nor his government’s actions will be overlooked anymore.” “Is that a threat?” Celestia immediately replied, “A promise.” She the levitated the receiver and placed it back on top of the snail’s shell. “Mwell,” Iceberg said smiling contently, “looks like that settles things.” Aokiji nodded. “I agree.” He said pleased. However, his contentedness did not last long as he soon wore a frown in concern. He spoke towards the Equestrian, “Let’s hope next time, we’ll get to speak on better terms.” Tsuru nodded. “Agreed.” She replied pleasantly. Bored already, Garp was grumpily frowning as he yelled at the other group, “Get the hell out of here already!” “Garp!” shouted Sengoku angrily. Replying with only a coolheaded snicker, Aokiji adhered to the older stallion’s demands. “Everyone,” he shouted, “return to the ship. We’re heading back to headquarters.” Though a bit shell-shocked, the soldiers quickly complied. “Y-Yes, sir!” Immediately, they all began rushing up the gangplanks. Following their soldiers, the admirals took their leave as well with Kuma following after. Once on their ship, more commands were given as well as new information spread through their ranks. One by one, they broke their formation and began sailing off into the distance. Quite a few however remained stationary; most likely in waiting for their targets. Soon enough though, even the lead ship of the Black Navy began sailing away. It seemed that the top brass of the military had enough of this tense day. Nevertheless, with the few remaining Black Navy ships present, Princess Celestia felt worried. She of course immediately attempted to seek some sort of solution from her military officers. “Is there really nothing we can do for Twilight, Luffy, and their friends?” Sengoku replied, “Not without them being on Equestrian soil, your majesty.” “I wouldn’t worry about it, Tia.” Garp stated familiarly, grinning like a fox. “My grandson’s pretty good a escapin’, and with Twilight he’ll probably make out of it safely too.” Iceberg then entered the conversation. “We’re talking about the Straw Hats, ya?” He asked first for clarification. “You know them?” asked Celestia surprised. Smirking, Iceberg responded by stating, “Mwell, they saved my life.” “Ha!” laughed Garp in disbelief. He was immediately reprimanded by Sengoku, another jab to his side. “I also helped build their new ship as well. As a way of saying thanks.” Celestia looked at the stallion surprised; however, she was soon smiling as her worries began to lessen. Thus, she asked in curiosity, “Is it a good ship?” “’Good’?” Iceberg repeated with some surprise. “I’d say it is one of the finest ships I’ve ever had the pleasure of building personally.” “Oh?” “The designs were made by an old friend of mine,” Iceberg continued on proudly, “it has an impressive build, some of the best material that can be procured, and its full of unexpected surprises I’m sure a crew like them will enjoy.” “All they need is a good shipwright,” Iceberg then looked out into the city, smiling fondly. “And with any luck, they’ll have that one soon.” Much earlier, before Iceberg arrived at Blue Station, and interesting conversation was had between him and the Franky Family with the Straw Hat pirates. A request to accept their friend and brother into their crew as to protect him from potentially being caught again. Believing that they, the Franky Family, would be unable to protect or rescue Franky without the Straw Hats help. It was a tough request to take, or at least it would have been under different circumstances. For before Zambai, the Franky Family, and Iceberg had even contemplated how to protect their friend Franky, Luffy had already had it in his mind to have him join his crew. Though they had been enemies in the beginning, the cyborg Minotaur had redeemed and proven himself to be of good guy after all. So, his response of course to the group’s pleas was a happy and optimistic “Sure!” None of his crew members were the least bit surprised; they too felt the same optimism and respect for the Minotaur as their captain did. They all had worked together to defeat their enemies and escape, and that made them comrades. Even the Mane Six and Spike were willing and accepting of the idea. Thus, Luffy had hoped to tell Franky to join him and his crew the moment after they saw their new ship. Except, there was an issue. “You must understand, Straw Hat.” Iceberg said informingly. “Of course he wouldn’t deny you should you speak to him face to face, but he believes he has a duty to this island.” “A duty?” asked Luffy confused. Iceberg let out a sigh in exasperation, but not because of Luffy. “Personally, I think it’s a stupid thing to be fixated on, but it’ll keep him here for the rest of his life.” He told them. “So, you’ll more than likely have to force him to go.” Everyone had been surprised to hear that from the mayor of Water 7. Even Zambai and the Franky Family agreed that using force would be the only thing to get their “Big Bro” moving. Though at first the group felt somewhat apprehensive to the idea; nevertheless, the agreed to it. So, the Franky Family soon went off to get Franky; already having a plan in mind. Iceberg then hurried off to eventually join Celestia and the military officers in declaring their alliance. Thus, the Straw Hats continued down to the scrap island where Iceberg, Franky, and the remaining foreman of the Galley-La Company had been working. Where they were in for a big surprise. Far from his finished masterpiece, Franky sat by the makeshift house of the Franky Family calmly but unsatisfied. He had many reasons to be so; the workmanship on his new house was shoddy at best, his bros were nowhere to be seen so he could yell at them for said shoddy work, and most importantly he had this nagging feeling in the back of his mind. It was an unpleasant feeling; one that was ruining his otherwise super week. Still, he did his best to ignore it. The very idea of him leaving with a bunch of pirates bound for adventure and mystery was a ridiculous notion. He had other things that needed his attention. Like his sorry excuse for carpenters he called “bros” wobbling along right up to him. He greeted them normally, trying not to let on about his condition. Franky however was unfortunately mistaken as his gang was already on to him about him joining the Straw Hats. Playing it off like a minor inconvenience, Franky began acting apathetic to the idea. Why should he leave, he told the group stubbornly, they could barely keep themselves alive with their mediocre skills. Still, they continued to push against Franky’s indifferent attitude. They had seen the hard work and determination their boss had put into making that ship; in fact, they were sure that he was at his happiest doing so. Unfortunately, he was stubborn. Even showing Franky his bounty hadn’t changed his mind. Thus, they had to do something drastic. Suddenly, Franky found himself being overturned. “Whoa!” He shouted with surprise. Now on the ground, he again shouted now in anger, “What the hell?!” “I got it!” The culprit was Tamagon, the egg-shaped orc. As he ran to the gang in his hand was Franky’s speedo. “What?!” shouted Kiev, the brown-haired orc. “Why’d you do that?” As he ran up to the others, Tamagon explained, “I thought if we took his speedo, he try to get them back or risk being exposed in public. And then we can lead him to the Straw Hats.” All the group looked at the orc dumbfounded. “Um,” spoke a gremlin, “we’re already naked. I mean, mostly.” “Oh yeah.” Tamagon said embarrassed. “Hey!” An angry shout from Franky immediately made the group tense. They all looked back to their boss – now of course speedo-less – standing back up and breathing out intensely with anger. Of course, he was also looking mighty anger as well. “I don’t appreciate being pantsed!” Franky roared out in rage. The group began freaking out. “Oh shit!” shouted one of the other orcs frightened. “Big Bro’s about to run wild!” shouted another. Though scared as well, Zambai quickly realized they had an opportunity with this. “Quick!” He shouted to the group. “Make a break for the Straw Hats! Lead Big Bro Franky to them!” No sooner after had Zambai said that, Franky let out mighty bull roar and charged forward at them. The group of orcs and gremlins screamed out in fear and took off into the city. Unfortunately, some fell behind; thus, they were the first to meet either Franky’s fists or horns or arsenal of weapons. The chase lead the enraged bull into the city itself where nothing stood in Franky’s way. One by one, each member of the Franky family seem to be systematically taken out by the Minotaur starting with Tamagon. Though he had once had Franky’s speedo, it had conveniently landed on another member of the gang. After the same thing happened again, the Franky Family figured that they could lead their boss by continuing to hand off the speedo. This process was repeated throughout many city blocks, each time a member of the Franky Family falling behind. It was a quite a coincidence that most of the citizens had already left thanks to a certain even earlier. Nevertheless, with how much destruction Franky was causing, it was unlikely that it had mattered in the first place. Coincidentally, it did help attract attention from certain individuals. Now, at only a few meager members remaining, the Franky Family felt their plan was going to fail. One member, a purple-haired gremlin, dropped down to the cobblestone path; exhausted. “It’s hopeless…” he said as he heard the rampage of his leader nearing him. “Bro!” shouted out the remaining Franky Family members. The gremlin continued despairingly, “It’s all over…” Then, like an answered prayer, a voice called out, “Hey! Over here!” Immediately, the group including the gremlin looked up to the rooftop. Hopping into their view, they saw none other than Monkey D. Luffy appear before them. “S-Straw Hat!” shouted the Franky Family surprised. Grinning excitedly, Luffy stuck out his hoof beckoningly. He immediately shouted, “Throw them up here!” Easily hearing him, Franky growled. “Don’t you dare...!” He shouted out wrathful. Frightened by this, the gremlin instantly choose to toss the speedo up. The distance thrown enough though still short; luckily, Luffy stretched his leg to make up the distance. He caught the speedo and immediately took off. As he did, he shouted, “Over here, Franky!” Franky roared out, “Straw Hat!” Then, he gave chase after the rubber pony. Much like his surname, Luffy jumped from roof to roof as nimble and quick as a monkey. And with a similar snickering that came from those animals as well. All used to keep the bull creature to follow him further. Franky of coursed followed after the pony; his rage and pride demanded it. “Hey!” Franky shouted suddenly. Once he gained the pony’s attention, he then surprisingly asked out, “Have ya seen the ship?” Hearing him, though continuing to run, Luffy looked back down surprised at first. Then, when the Minotaur asked his question, he went back to happily grinning. “Yeah!” He told the carpenter. “I’ve never seen such a great ship! Thanks!” Still giving chase, Franky began smiling in pride hearing the appreciation for his work. “Well, of course!” He told the pony proudly. “In addition to my super designs, I also included all of your requests!” For a couple of blocks, Luffy and Franky conversed over the newly built ship. Very odd for a game of “cat and mouse”. Nevertheless, they spoke of the many aspects of the ship. Franky was asking the pony pirate captain if he had seen all the features of the ship. Some such features was a large aquarium to house fish to eat later and something called the “Soldier Docking System”. What it was, Luffy had no idea, but Luffy had seen the fish tank and was ecstatic by it. There was more of course; the grass deck, the kitchen with a locking refrigerator, the cabins made unique and different between males and females, the library in the back, the many other cabins for personal uses, the inclusion of Nami’s precious mikan trees that were expertly planted on the upper deck while regular trees were planted on the main deck, and the crow’s nest that doubled as a room itself with easy sky access for Pegasi. It was truly a fantastic sounding ship. It was an odd conversation to have for the situation; it was almost like feedback between employer and customer. And with such positive feedback, Franky couldn’t help but be proud of his work and respected the pony he was chasing for his honest opinion. However… Despite his admiration, he was still mad as hell. “Now give me back my trunks!” He roared while firing a blast from his arm. It wasn’t to harm Luffy, but the resulting explosion would throw the agile pony off balance and tumble. “Whoa!” shouted Luffy surprised. He looked down to see he was falling with no way to recover in time before Franky would catch. Then came a shout, “Yo! Captain!” Up above Luffy was Rainbow Dash, floating up in the sky. Like Luffy had earlier, she had her hoof extended out and wore a confident grin. She then shouted, “Toss ‘em up!” Luffy grinned. “Yeah!” He then threw the speedos at her quickly. The shot was off slightly, but Rainbow Dash caught them effortlessly. “Got it!” She declared victorious. “Hey!” shouted Franky annoyed. Immediately, Rainbow Dash took off flying. Not going too fast and flying down low to make sure Franky kept his attention on her. In his rage, Franky did follow after the cyan Pegasus; completely ignoring Luffy. Good for the pony as he soon recovered. He shot his hoof up to the nearest roof and launched up to it. Once safely on, Luffy quickly moved to follow after the two. After jumping to a few buildings, he caught up with them as they prepared the next part of the tactic. “You got this Pinkie!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she few over her friend. Pinkie Pie, along with a few members of the Franky Family, were ready with a large size cannon prepared. As she saw her winged friend, Pinkie excitedly shouted back, “Yippee!” As Franky came charging after the Pegasus, he quickly caught sight of the cannon and its canonneers. “What the…?” Before the Minotaur could react though, a lasso shot out and ensnared him. It was Applejack, who immediately smirked with pride. “Got ya!” “Hey!” shouted Franky. Sanji stepped up next. “Excellent work, Apple-chan.” He said with a smile. After immediately being handed the rope, Sanji used all his strength to pull the rope and Franky along with it. “Whoa!” shouted Franky as he was suddenly launched forward. Though, instead of heading for Applejack and Sanji, the Minotaur flew straight into the cannon; legs first. “We got him!” shouted an orc from the Franky Family. “Quick!” shouted another. “Aim for Scrap Island!” Swiftly, Pinkie and the group changed the direction and angle of the cannon. Once set, Pinkie Pie immediately set it off. “Have a fun flight!” She told the Minotaur cheerfully. “Anything Cannon! Fire!” shouted the Franky Family orc. Franky shouted in panic, “Wait!” It was too late though. The cannon fired, and it sent the Minotaur soaring into the air above the buildings. Not only him, but also multi-colored confetti and streamers as well. Seeing the Minotaur fly, Rainbow Dash laughed out. “Whoa! Looks like he went ahead of his trunks.” She commented lightheartedly. Having watched it all, Luffy became excited. “Come on guys!” He shouted before stretching his legs out. One grabbed Sanji and Applejack and the other grabbed Pinkie Pie. “Whoa!” shouted the group as the red pony pulled them up onto the roof. Immediately, Sanji asked out cautious, “Luffy, what are you…” The navy blue pony soon saw that his captain’s legs were now stretched by them, and his captain was right behind them grinning. Instantly, he caught on. “Luffy!” He shouted. Though Luffy heard him, he only responded with a grin and snicker. “Gum-Gum Rocket!” Without hesitation, Luffy launched himself, catching his crewmates along the way, and then shot forward with all of them in the same direction as Franky went. To where their ship was anchored in waiting. “Hey! Wait up!” shouted Rainbow Dash before jetting forward quickly and heading towards the ship. In a matter of moments, Franky soon landed hard in a pile of metal and wood scraps along with much dirt and rock. Fortunately, his large and durable constitution coupled with his mostly metallic body withstood the great impact. Yet, the shock of being launched from the cannon as well as the disorientation of the impact caused the Minotaur momentary paralysis. Thus, he remained were he had landed, head first, into the pile of scrap with much of the rest of his body exposed. His entrance though hadn’t gone unnoticed. The Galley-La workers as well as Kokoro and her group plus Mozu and Kiwi had been shocked to see Franky suddenly appear and crash into Scrap Island. No sooner after, they had seen Luffy and his group come flying in as well. Landing just feet away from their ship; safely, thanks to a quick “Gum-Gum Balloon” from Luffy. Quickly after, they hurried onto their ship in time as Rainbow Dash arrived with the trunks and as Franky began to recover. With a mighty roar, Franky pulled himself out of the ground, and at the same time broke the rope around himself. He took a moment to look around, recognizing that he was on Scrap Island. “Ow! That really hurt you guys!” Franky shouted at no one. “Hey! Franky!” Hearing ‘Straw Hat’ Luffy’s shout, Franky turned towards him looking disgruntled. His mood though changed as he soon beheld his master creation and the group of ponies and creatures that he entrusted her with. “Thanks for the ship!” Luffy continued as he waved Franky’s trunks. “It’s the best ship I’ve ever seen! We’ll take good care of it!” Probably for the second time, Franky surveyed the “Ship of Dreams” he built. Firstly, it was large; able to at least support a crew of twenty or so. This made it at least three times the size of the Straw Hats’ original ship, the Going Merry. Constructed mostly with the Adam wood he purchased (with the Straw Hats’ money), he fashioned a truly a one of a kind ship. This two-mast, brig sloop had a lot going for it in many regards. Seven cannons placed on both side of the ship giving it a total of fourteen guns for attack and defense. Large masts that allowed for extreme maneuverability. A wonderfully though simple ornate hull. A distinctive figurehead; a lion head stylized similarly like a sunflower (much to his chagrin) with two crossbones underneath. To bring out even more of its lion-like qualities, the anchors – currently dropped – were designed like lion paws. At the ship’s rear, two balconies connected to the lower and upper decks. A unique hut-like structure was also there with an additional balcony as well as two lamps connected to the big cabin. Also, one of his more impressive features; the single large cannon-like structure in the back. At the top of the main mast, another though smaller hut building stood exposed to see in all directions and protect any watchman on duty from the elements as well as attacks. Finally, within the hull, there was the numbers that were a part of his even more impressive feature to the ship: the Soldier Docking System. All of it, after years of designing, finally coming together this his greatest creation… …New Battle Franky, Lion Gang Champion. Name pending Thus, despite his predicament, Franky smiled and responded back, “Yeah, well, I wish you guys the best on the rest of your journey…” “Hey!” shouted Luffy intrusively. “If you want your trunks back, then join my crew!” Along with Luffy, all the crew members leaned and hung around the edge of the ship watching intently the exchange. They too were waiting for the Minotaur’s answer. “Pah!” muttered Franky in ridicule. “You think I’ll join you just because you have my speedos?” Then, Franky did his infamous pose – placing his forearms together and combining his star tattoos into one. As the waves crashed down hard behind the Minotaur to further his poetic point, he told the pirate captain profoundly, “All males are naked their entire life. May he be like a lion and stand against the crashing waves!” Not surprisingly, Luffy was total taken in by his fellow male’s conviction. Chopper had been too. Of course, everyone else only thought the Minotaur was just acting ridiculously. Still, they were in a jam if they couldn’t somehow persuade the cyborg into joining their crew. “Look, I appreciate what you all have done for me, and your offer to sail with you all is great, but I have a duty to this island.” Franky told the pirates graciously. “Anyway, I gave up being a shipwright long ago, and I’m not going back. That ship of yours will be my last for the rest of my life. It was my dream…my ship of dreams.” Suddenly, a familiar lackadaisical voice spoke out, “Hold on, Franky.” Everyone looked back to see that it was Iceberg, stepping out of a flash of light. Not only him though; Princess Celestia stepped out of the light as well before it disappeared. As she looked out, she saw the newly built ship and was pleasantly surprised by it. “My,” she commented pleasantly, “so this is the ship considered the ‘King of Beasts’…” Back on the ship, everyone marveled at the magical arrival of the mayor of Water 7 and the princess of Equestria. “Hey!” Luffy shouted in glee. “Tia’s here!” “Hey!” Luffy shouted loudly, waving towards the princess. In response, and also amused, Celestia was kind enough to wave back to the pony. Curious, Robin asked out, “Why though?” She then attempted to look at Twilight for an answer, but she found the young mare no longer by her side. Instead, she saw that she was hiding behind railing, scared. Meanwhile, Iceberg continued to speak directly to Franky. Having known the Minotaur since their youth, he understood Franky better than even the beast’s followers. They had both been apprentices of Tom, working hard together on any project they undertook. Misfortune nearly destroyed that bond, but in the end Iceberg was happy that Franky – Cutty Flam – was alive. Even if, for so long, he blamed the Minotaur for the actions of his creations that initially ruined Tom’s Workers Company. Now though, all was forgiven by him, but he knew that wasn’t the case for Franky. For though Tom and himself forgave the Minotaur, Franky had yet to forgive himself. His speech had certainly touched his friend. Franky was even shedding tears despite his otherwise attempt to stay manly. “Big Bro!” A shout from Zambai caught Franky’s attention. Before he could see him however, his attention was drawn to a duffle bag thrown towards him. “It’s all the things for your journey, Big Bro!” Zambai shouted encouragingly though sad. Around him, the rest of the Franky Family was both giving their support as well as saying goodbye. The orc continued to shout, “Big Bro! We’re so sorry we had to do this! We aren’t that smart, but we’ve thought long and, and this is the only way!” Franky shouted back angrily, “You birdbrains! What’s this idea about turning me into a pirate?! Stay out of this! You think I’d be happy with the life my underlings planned for me? Get real!” “What’s wrong with thinking about your happiness, Big Bro?!” retorted Zambai loudly in tears. This revelation shocked Franky incredibly. So much so he fell over backwards. Not even a male among males could withstand this amount of sincerity and thoughtfulness. Certainly not Franky; and yet, he soon began wailing out in pain and agony. At the same time, he was shedding tears too. Faking a “terrible headache”, Franky had attempted to hide his true emotions. The many rascals and ne’er-do-wells he had picked up and given a purpose since returning five years before were now giving them him their blessing to live his own life. It was simply too much for the otherwise hard-boiled Minotaur: he felt truly grateful to them. “Hey, Franky!” Luffy’s shout attracted Franky’s attention. He looked back to the ship to see the red pony grinning at him enthusiastically. “Here, take ‘em back…” Luffy then threw the speedos towards the Minotaur. As Franky caught them, the pony told him confidently, “Get on, Franky! Get on my ship!” Franky chuckled and smirked. “Think you’re hot stuff, huh?” He asked out rhetorically. “You’re all a bunch of amateurs who can only do makeshift repairs. You have this great ship, but you don’t even have one shipwright. I feel sorry for the ship.” Despite how insulting it sounded, none of the crew looked offended. They all actually looked happy; impressed even. Luffy was especially. They knew as well where the Minotaur was going with his act, and they couldn’t be happier for it. “Alright!” Franky roared out eagerly. “Just leave taking care of the ship to me! Franky will be your shipwright!” Instantly, Luffy cheered out with his hooves in the air, “All right! We got a new crewmate!” Grinning confidently, Franky grabbed his duffle bag and approached his crew. As he did, he gave out a silent goodbye to all those he considered dear to him, ‘Tom, I’m leaving this island. I wasn’t a very good student… I was nothing but trouble for you… But I owe you so much!’ ‘You Galley-La shipwrights…’ Franky thought in reference to Paulie, Tilestone, and Peeply Lulu, ‘Take care of Iceberg…’ The thought of his colleague made the Minotaur chuckle inwardly. ‘Heh, I was nothing but a pain in the butt for you too…’ ‘Old Lady Kokoro… Shorty and the rabbit…’ As they watched him leave, Kokoro only looked proud as the young boy she had watched over was now growing up and leaving for the word. For Chimney and Gonbe though; they cried in both joy and sadness that their friend was leaving. ‘Yokozuna…’ The big frog cried and waved to him. ‘The lively citizens…’ None were here to see him off, but he always appreciative of their efforts. ‘My sisters…’ He was referring to Mozu and Kiwi, the two mares he saved from a potential life of debauchery. Since then, they’ve been his ever-faithful entourage and hype girls. ‘Sodom and Gomorrah…’ The two Franky Family Yagura King Bulls. Though he had plans on eating them when they first found them, they had become irreplaceable as they grew larger. ‘And my bros…’ They were all crying despite that it was their decision to allow their ‘Big Bro’ to be free. ‘I love you guys!’ Now, still halfway from the ship, Franky’s emotions had gotten the better of him. As he began freely shedding tears, he turned to the small crowd of brothers-in-arms and friends. Out of nowhere, Franky jumped into the air and posed; contorting his body and arms into a sideways V-shape with his butt sticking out. And shouted out in joy, “I’m going off for a while!” The Franky Family cheered and hollered both in joy and sadness for their boss. It had been tough for them, but they pulled through to support their “Big Bro”. For they knew in their hearts that though a great distance may separate them, the bond they shared would never disappear. TO BE CONTINUED…