It's remarkable how this place hasn't changed at all, isn't it?

Once again, I found myself awakening in the familiarity of my humble room. The sight of the lackluster wooden ceiling had become a regular occurrence, gradually ingraining itself into my daily routine. Once, the crashing waves or even the faintest disturbance beyond my window would have startled me. But now, I find myself utterly indifferent. However, numerous concerns continue to plague me, making it arduous to find solace in sleep.

I sighed with relief as I felt the absence of fever coursing through my body. Seated on the edge of the bed, I couldn't help but notice how my complexion had regained its natural hue, no longer bearing the ghostly pallor that had plagued me earlier. The nauseating dizziness had vanished from my head, allowing me to seize the moment and go over the information I had collected.

"Makino informed me that the marine ship is under the command of an apprentice captain, alongside Captain Hina, who serves as the supervisor."

Whispers of Captain Hina had reached my ears, and oddly enough, it was right after Miss Valentine had cautioned me about her. A mere few days later, I found myself stranded on Drum Island, my body weakened by a relentless fever, rendering me utterly defenseless.

"It appears that they are also aware of my secret. How could these marines possibly possess such knowledge?" The question echoed incessantly within my mind, for my contentment appeared to hinge upon its resolution.

Just at that moment, someone suddenly knocked on my room door. I was already feeling happy because there was something I wanted to ask Makino. However, an inexplicable sense of unease washed over me as a young man entered the room.

"Good morning, Captain Luffy." 

He greeted me with a warm smile, as he had done on numerous occasions during my illness. His reassuring words never failed to ease my worries, leaving a lasting positive impression.

"Did Makino tell you that?" When I saw his smile, I thought he wasn't bothered by it. However, to be on the safe side and to avoid any potential trouble for Makino, I decided to respond with the truth:

"Ever since I awoke aboard this ship, many questions have flooded my thoughts. However, each time Makino provides an answer, a sense of tranquility washes over me," I sincerely hope that my reliance on Makino for answers does not result in any blame being placed upon her.

Instead of pressing the issue, he decided to sit down in a chair across from me. His intense gaze never wavered, leaving me unsure of what to say. However, I couldn't help but feel a strong desire to share my thoughts.

'Had Captain Hina entrusted all affairs to this young man?' Initially, I was hesitant to accept it, as I had never had the opportunity to meet her face-to-face. Moreover, witnessing Makino's evident admiration for him caused me to reconsider my stance.

I let out a weary sigh, my shoulders slumping in defeat…

"It is only fair to be informed of the reason behind my inclusion in this venture. So please, can you tell me now?" I don't really need to be so nervous right now because standing before me is a marine who I truly believe is a hero, dedicated to upholding justice in these vast waters. However, I couldn't shake off the overwhelming sense of dread that washed over me whenever I encountered him and his crew.

"While you may possess the ability to deceive many people, I possess the keen discernment to immediately identify your true nature. Consequently, armed with this knowledge, I, as a member of the Marine Corps, shall not permit any harm to befall you."

My body quivered instantly, my heart racing as the man effortlessly exposed the secret I had painstakingly concealed for so long. Had I been unaware of his military background, I might have acted impulsively, perhaps even attempting to silence him.

"That is precisely why we ventured to Whiskey Peak, pursuing Igaram. However, Baroque Works appears not particularly pleased with our intentions."

"I-Igaram, is he alright?" I already asked Makino about this, but her response was a complicated expression. Undeterred, I decided to gather the courage and ask him, confident that he possessed valuable information.

I was driven by a hasty pursuit, initially spurred by Igaram. However, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of shame. You see, upon awakening on this ship, I had completely forgotten about Igaram and instead found myself consumed with worry for my partner, Mister 9. Now that my mind is clear, I realize Igaram holds a significant place in my life.

"He's doing well, even though we found ourselves at odds due to a misunderstanding, but we-"

"Karoo! What about him!... did I really forget about him. Is he okay? Wait... don't tell me he's still left at Whiskey Peak?..." panic surged through my veins, causing me to emit a piercing scream. Simultaneously, my face drained of color as I was taken aback by the realization that I had inadvertently left behind my cherished pet - a beloved childhood friend.

"Karoo? Who do you mean?" As I observed Luffy's perplexed expression, it became evident that he knew nothing about the matter. Therefore, I can confidently deduce that Karoo remains situated at Whiskey Peak. He likely fled in fear upon hearing the commotion, and due to my prompt departure, I regrettably neglected to remember his existence.

"Luffy, we've reached our destination," a voice called out from beyond the confines of my room. It was evident that the speaker was aware of Luffy's presence within, and the casual manner she addressed him suggested a familiarity between the two.

As my attention waned, a sudden movement caught my eye. Luffy, positioned directly in front of me, rose to his feet and extended his hand in my direction. Initially, I was confused by his action, but his next words elucidated his intention:

"Princess Vivi, it's time to finally witness the kingdom you've yearned for all these years," those words haven't graced my ears in ages. Even Igaram, who tends to slip up, hasn't uttered them in quite some time.

I knew from his gentle smile a flicker of intuition told me that he harbored a secret. A sense of foreboding washed over me, hinting that uncovering this hidden truth might not bode well. Nevertheless, I chose to seize his outstretched hand, allowing him to lead the way.

As I emerged onto the ship's deck, just as I had anticipated, the scent of sand wafted through the air, instantly tickling my senses. The dryness in my throat was an immediate consequence of this olfactory encounter. The vast expanse of golden scenery stretched out before me, evoking a sense of nostalgia. In the distance, a sandstorm loomed, its swirling clouds reminiscent of a mighty tsunami.

"It's remarkable how this place hasn't changed at all, isn't it?" A smile involuntarily crept onto my face. Some may perceive these circumstances as a disadvantage, but for the people of Arabasta, it fills me with immense pride. In their solitary efforts, these people persist in their diligent pursuit of a fulfilling existence, maintaining a cheerful face. As the esteemed princess of this kingdom, I, too, shall remain resolute, refusing to surrender.