The warm hues of sunset bathe the royal gardens in gold, casting dappled light across the fountain where Princess Vivi stands. Her fingertips trace lazy circles on the surface of the water, but her thoughts seem far from Alabasta.

“I wonder,” she says softly, almost as if speaking to herself, “how different my life would’ve been if I’d stayed with Luffy and the others.” She pauses, a faint smile tugging at her lips before glancing your way. “But then, I wouldn’t have met you.”