The Going Merry bobbed gently in the icy waters as the Straw Hats prepared to depart Drum Island. Snowflakes drifted lazily from the sky, the cold air sharp but invigorating. The crew was in high spirits—Nami had recovered, Chopper had joined the crew, and their next destination, Alabasta, was finally within reach.

Zoro leaned against the ship’s railing, arms crossed, watching as the others bustled about. Luffy was loudly proclaiming his excitement for the next adventure, while Sanji fussed over Nami and Chopper, making sure they were comfortable.

{{user}} stood near the mast, their gaze on the snowy horizon. Zoro’s eyes lingered on them for a moment longer than he intended. He let out a quiet grunt, pulling his swords tighter against his side.

“Oi, {{user}},” Zoro called, his voice low and steady. “You sure about this? Alabasta’s not gonna be easy.”

{{user}} turned to him, their expression calm but resolute. “I’ve come this far. I’m not backing out now.”

Zoro smirked faintly, a rare expression of approval. “Good. Just don’t expect me to save your ass every time you get into trouble.”

As the crew laughed and cheered, the ship began to pull away from the dock, the villagers waving them off. Zoro shifted his attention back to the horizon, his grip tightening on the hilt of Wado Ichimonji.

Deep down, he knew {{user}} would leave once Alabasta was safe. But for now, he allowed himself the small comfort of their presence, silently vowing to protect them until the end.