Island The Laughing Archipelago

[Larsi]

As Koujiro held up the Den Den Mushi, a single word. Nay, a single name was heard exclaimed from the little phone snail. The voice was one he had not heard in what felt like forever, yet Larsi knew it instantly all the same.

"LARSIIII!"

Gambit called out to him and with a couple quick steps he reached Koujiro, his hand scooping up the little transponder. Eager as he had no felt since learning the man on the other side of the call was alive, he could barely hold back tears of joy. He knew from Gambit's voice that he felt the same. However, his joy was cut short as as the call was disconnected.

Cocking his head, he looked with confusion and frustration at the little snail. With quick fingers he dialed a new call, seeking out the other man. After only a couple of seconds the call disconnected again. He felt a small touch on his wrist as Koujiro had reached him again. He looked apologetic at Larsi, gesturing as if wanting him to hand the transponder back to him. Reluctant, the giant did so. What was that about? He asked, impatient.

The Lord Captain has been unreachable for several days, except for small openings. Koujiro pocketed the snail, carefully tucking it inside his jacket. I have been trying to reach him off and on, but he seems to be doing alright, the island he is on just has poor reception. We're not sure why.

I should go help him! Larsi exclaimed, starting to rush across the cobblestones, the ground shaking with his every step. Behind him, the three of them looked at each other, before Sarge hurried after him, struggling to keep pace with the larger being.

Look, I don't think you'll be able to get there soon enough to help. It's several days of sailing to get there, plus it's a difficult place to get to in the first place. Larsi stopped, anger and frustration building up within him. Sarge raised his hands defensively, but didn't step back away from Larsi. Look, I'm sure even knowing that you're alive and well will help him find the spirit he needs to come out of it unscathed. He always has before.

Sarge smiled reassuringly and Larsi considered the words. They made sense, and realistically he knew there was nothing he could do, especially without proper directions and good weapons, now that he no longer had a devil fruit. All right... Musashi, you still had something you wanted to show me, right?

Yes! It's actually just on top of the hill. How about we go check it out, and Koujiro can keep trying to get ahold of Gambit? The swordsman smiled, but it was a sad smile. What could it be he wanted to show? Larsi had an inkling, but didn't want to think of it in case he was wrong. Sighing to himself, he looked out towards the port and the ships anchored. He wouldn't set sail yet, he still had things to take care of here.

Show the way. Nodding, Musashi started up the hill to the top of the settlement and hill of the island. Sarge and Larsi quietly followed behind, a somber feeling settling over them.

 

[Larsi]

The three of them walked in silence as they ascended the hill that led to the top of the Silver Refuge. The levity and joy from before was gone from the other two and Larsi had a feeling it was not because of their struggles to reach Gambit. As they climbed the cobbled streets past new and old buildings, several people stopped and saluted the group. It was an odd sensation, his crew of old had been much smaller and less formal than this. Not to mention he didn't know if it was addressed to himself, Sarge or Musashi, so he only nodded back at them, as the other two were doing.

Soon, they neared the row of buildings that marked the end of the Refuge proper, yet they continued on the path that led upwards and into the island itself. Cobblestones gave way to dirt road, buildings were replaced by trees and tall grass that both swayed in the chilly wind. Where before he had smelled sewage, sweat and smoke he now smelled the green of nature and faint sense of ocean carried in on the winds. The buildings that had even obscured much of the sun for him no longer blocked him in, and the sunlight washed over the three of them.

Soon they reached a crossroads, left would take them across to the northern forest of the archipelago known as the Green Hair. The thick foliage of closely clumped together trees coated the second half of the Laughing Archipelago, which had barely been in use last time he was here. Forward was the Retreat, named for its purpose, as it was a path for the pirates to escape should the Silver Refuge be overrun by foes. It was easily defended by a skeleton crew due to natural barriers, with extra ships parked in a hidden harbor for a quick getaway. Yet the path they followed traveled right, upwards into the grassy hills that would eventually lead them to the Lonely Hovel, the southern outlook. There was yet another reason they may visit here, what he had feared and dreaded he may have guessed correctly.

As they climbed ever higher, verdant fields lay to either side of their path, its tall grass blowing to and fro in the fierce wind, barely protected from the elements up so high. Yet again there was a fork in the road, a path leading forward and further south to the outpost. The other split off to the right, climbing up the highest point of the island. Larsi found himself stopping now. He had been correct in his assumption of their destination. Sarge and Musashi stopped up ahead, realizing that he wasn't following anymore. Turning to look at him they did not speak, they only looked back at him patiently. There was understanding on their faces, as well as sadness. Yet it was nothing compared to what he felt building within. He looked up the winding path ahead. In reality it was much shorter path than they had walked, and less steep than parts of it, yet to Larsi at this moment it was the most daunting climb he had ever faced. Could he make it?

Yes. He owed it to them. He would not falter now, not again. So he steeled himself, pushing past the two men. His feet still felt heavy, each step a monumental task. He dared not look up for fear of seeing his destination running away from him, however illogical that was. Was his body getting heavier? Surely that couldn't be right. He didn't know how long he had been walking when finally the ground leveled out in front of him. Surely it had been hours? That's what it felt like. Yet when his eyes rose to the sky he noticed the sun had not moved its position at all. Impossible. Stop distracting yourself, he told himself internally and so he forced his eyes downwards, looking on the sight that he had known and feared.

Seven stones stood arrayed in a crescent formation before him, against the backdrop of the Silver Refuge and ocean far below. All seven of them were chiseled into an ornamental memorial, bearing mementos of the people it represented. The center stone was twice as large as the other six, one of Larsi's own coats draped over the cut rock that bore his own name. A sword rested against the stone that bore Minuano's name, Drago's tools adorned his own. Sigmund, Eve and Dango all had personal belongings resting here with them, even the old grave of Strawhatter had his pistols. It was a beautiful sight, yet it was also horrible. Absently he heard Sarge and Musashi approaching behind, the latter breaking the silence awkwardly. We made a tombstone for you as well, since we thought you were dead...

Thank you, Larsi heard himself say. Could you leave me? I'll find my way back alone.

Of course, take all the time you need. The two of them withdrew, descending the hill without him. He stood there for a long while, not moving, hands clasped before him. This time time did pass, and he just stood there motionless. The sun which had been overhead now started to sink towards the horizon, yet he stood as immovable as the stones before him. The cold wind washed over him, biting into his skin, yet he didn't move.

Suddenly however, hours after he had arrived, the wind caught the chains on his wrist somehow shaking them and breaking the silence. With a roar of anguish the giant broke free from his trance. His right arm flew up in the air, the chains bound to his cuffs extending further upwards. Whipping his arm back down, he sent the chain flying forwards, wrapping around his tombstone, skillfully avoiding the other six. His roar still sounded, a continuous wail as he ripped the large stone free from the ground in a single pull, yanking it toward himself. Catching the carved stone with his left hand, he stopped its flight dead in its tracks. You don't deserve to be there among them. He spoke to the stone through gritted teeth, his hand crushing the stone in half between his fingers. You failed them.

The now split stone fell to the ground, discarded. And like the stones, so did Larsi fall, forward to his knees. Stopping himself with a hand on the ground, he could no longer hold back the tears. His voice buckled as his body did too, the loss finally catching up to him. Even after seeing them die, even after the year in prison, not until now had it fully dawned on him. He had failed them, and he could never make it up to them. As the sun sank beneath the horizon he knelt before the graves, tears streaming until he had none left.

Hours later, long after the sun had gone down did a new man emerge into town, slowly descending the path a similar man had walked earlier in the day. As the pirates either slept or partied they were unaware of the changes that had occurred in the man. His mourning was over. Vengeance would come soon.

 

[Larsi]

The sun was just peeking above the horizon when Larsi emerged from his house, stretched as he stepped out into the cool morning. The morning mists were fading away, clearing the streets for the day's activities. It had been two days since his return and breakdown at the graves, and he finally felt rested and determined. Throughout the previous day Koujiro had received several short calls from Gambit, and from what he had been told, Larsi would not make it there in time to be of help. Instead he was tasked to lead several ships and troops to assist in the subjugation of Briss.

Briss. Out of all the lands in the South Blue, it was the most vast. Nine large cities each with a formidable force, they all held large fortunes within. Chief among them was Kings Landing, led by Aerys Targaryen on his Iron Throne, though it was said that behind his back they whispered of his other name, the Mad King. Cletus and Muk were assaulting the southern part of the island, the city of Sunspear, located in the region of Dorne.

This was all things that Larsi had learned last evening, over strategic meetings with Sarge, Musashi, Koujiro and other officers. He had known about the country before, but only some parts. Luckily the crew had done their homework. They agreed that the current force of the Silver Vampirates should be able to handle the armies of Dorne by themselves, but if the other regions decided to send reinforcements, it may cause trouble. Of course they could simply send reinforcements of their own, but that could slow down their campaign. No, cutting them off first would be much better. Divide and conquer.

These were the thoughts that were going through his mind as he stepped walked down the street. He hoped the troops would follow him, footmen and officers alike. Well, it remained to be seen. He would have to inspire them with his own actions if not. Approaching the mess hall, he stepped inside, bending low to get through the door. The building was a newer addition, and as such was not accommodated to someone his size. He didn't mind much, he simply wanted a bite to eat. The crowd at the table stilled as his arm reached over their heads, grabbing the sandwich he had asked to be prepared ahead of time. Each piece of bread was as big as a small human, and he took a bite even as he stepped out of the building to let the crew to their own meal. He had places to be, and the building couldn't fit him even if he did had time.

By the time he reached his next destination he had already finished the food, and he rubbed his hands together and brushed his clothing to remove crumbs as he stepped up to the huge doors that actually were large enough for him. The heat that hit him was just as it had been two days ago, when last he stepped through this gateway into smoke, leather and sweat. He looked around for Rea, the overseer of the blacksmith that he had spoken to last time. He soon spotted her, laboring over what he realized quickly was one of his juttes, for there was nothing even remotely as large being worked on than these two, placed next to each other. They clearly couldn't even lift them themselves, as they were suspended by chains and heavy machinery.

How goes it? He spoke calmly, but loud enough that it carried over the noise of the workshop. Rea held up a finger, and knowing it meant she was busy, Larsi was content with waiting a bit. For the few minutes it took to finish her part, he looked about the workshop. Several of the other workers who weren't busy with his weapons had stopped to look at him. He simply nodded back to those whose eyes he met, and they returned to their work. After a bit Rea stood back, looking proud as she took over her protective glasses and admired the weapons. Alright! Crude, simple pieces, but that's exactly what you needed, right?

She turned to Larsi, a genuine smile plastered on her face and he couldn't help himself from returning the gesture. Stepping forward, he looked over the metal construction, nearly as tall as he himself. He looked back to the craftswoman. May I?

It's still hot, but yeah. She nodded, arms resting on her hips. She was right, it nearly burned as he clasped the weapon in his hand, lifting it from the chains that held it up. He knew that to them it would be far too heavy to handle, but the weight felt just right for himself. He nearly spun the jutte for test, but thought the better of it. Rea wouldn't be happy if she destroyed her workshop. This is perfect!

I will add leather grips to it, and we made you a harness so you can hang them on your back. She gestured behind him where he turned to see a leather harness hanging on the wall. Nodding in satisfaction he lowered the weapon back into the chains that held it, allowing her to finish the craft. We set sail tomorrow morning, can it be ready by then?

Of course, that's more than enough time! She said proudly before turning back to the task at hand. Larsi turned and left the building, leaving to prepare his forces for departure the next day.

 

[Larsi]

Four Months Ago​

I beg you, please do not do this! The king fell to his knees before Admiral Akainu. His purple clothing hung loosely from his body, draping the cobblestones around him. He removed his sword from his waist, placing it on the ground before the Admiral, signaling that he was surrendering freely to the other man. Take me instead, the common folk do not deserve this fate! They were not behind this insurgency!

Kaladin tightened his grip on the spear, looking towards the regent with sorrow. He agreed with the other man’s sentiment. The rebellion that had taken place here was not as widespread as other places, they simply had seized hold of the nation’s lifeless soldiers. Made up of animated corpses of the fallen, it was in a way one of the most dangerous armies in the world, as they would not balk against any foe. In the distance he could see the marines pulling back from the onslaught, seeking refuge among the ships.

The admiral stood firm before the king, his face not faltering before the pleas. Huffing, he surveyed the landscape, taking in the destruction and losses. T’Telir, the capital was on fire, the blaze illuminating the sky even during the day. Taking his eyes off the destruction, he turned to the king, ignoring the tears that welled up in his eyes. We can not allow any lifeless soldier to escape this land, or remain hidden. We can not allow any potential holders of their command to escape this island.

On the ground before him, the King sunk even further, tears breaking free finally. Akainu paid him no heed, instead turning towards the messengers nearby. Tell the vice admirals to commence the Buster Call. By my command, Halladren will no longer exist!

The messengers turned to run and pass on his orders, and Kaladin said a silent prayer. This was not what he believed in. There were hundreds of thousands, maybe millions of innocent civilians in this country. He had sworn to protect those who could not protect themselves. How could he stand here and-

Strips of clothing whipped through the air, wrapping around Akainus arms, holding him in place. The king stood tall once more, his wrappings holding the marine leader. In his hands he held the sword he had placed on the ground. Kaladin thought he could hear a voice in his head, it spoke with glee. Destroy evil!


Held in place, Akainu could do nothing as the king pulled his sword from his sheath. Black smoke burst free from the black blade as it entered into the sunlight, seeming to warp the air around it. The king grimaced, seemingly in pain, yet he leapt forward. As he aimed to bring the sword down on the admiral, Kaladin thought he could hear the gleeful voice now reaching a crescendo. DESTROY!!!!!

Akainu grabbed the king’s sword arm, stopping the attack dead in its tracks. The wrappings that held him were nothing but smolders as his body transformed into magma. Holding the king in the air before him, he shook his head. I was ordered to bring you in alive, don’t make me go against that order.

He tightened his grip and lava flowed forward, creeping over the skin of the other man. Screaming, he dropped the strange blade, which fell still. Tossing aside the king like a piece of cloth, he gestured to some soldiers nearby to restrain the man. They hastened to obey, pulling away the crying king. Soon to be king of nothing. Kaladin wasn’t sure if he cried out of pain for his people or out of pain for his injuries. He had a feeling it was the former.

Help! Please! The cries came from a little ahead. Two children were running towards the docks, seeking refuge. Burns and blood decorated their worn bodies, and Kaladin couldn’t help himself. He dashed forwards, breaking ranks. In moments he reached the boy and girl, grabbing one in each arm and running back towards the dock.

Exterminate them. Kaladin stopped dead in his tracks, looking up at the source of the voice. The admiral loomed above him, an image of judgment and scorched earth, his eyes fixated on Kaladin. We can not allow anyone to escape this country that can not be vouched for. You will exterminate them.

What do you mean? They’re just children! He placed himself between the two and Akainu. This was wrong. It was all wrong! And coming to a realization, Kaladin stood tall, facing off against his commander. No. I will protect even if it goes against my orders, if it is right!

A sense of peace settled within Kaladin, and he raised his spear guardingly. The admiral simply shook his head. Disobedience is unacceptable. Arrest him and exterminate those two!

Around them several other marines closed in, blunt weapons drawn. Kaladin held his ground, but it was not enough. Though he managed to neutralize several of them, soon they got a good hit in. He fell to the ground, hearing the screaming of children as he hit the ground. The blasts of cannons sounded as the buster call commenced. The fires of the capital grew even hotter. As he was dragged away, Kaladin could barely make out the land itself breaking, the city collapsing. Couldn’t they see how wrong this all was?

A Week Ago​

A crash broke the silence, bringing Kaladin out from his sleep. His chains clinked as he sat up, trying to clear his vision. Near the edge of the cage he saw two large figures standing, talking. He hadn’t paid close attention to his fellow inmates, but he thought there was only one of that stature in here. New arrival? His thoughts were cut off as one of them ripped the cage door from its hinges, tossing it aside as if it was nothing. What kind of monster was that, did he stay here out of his own volition?

The figure that had broken open the cage stepped out and walked towards the elevator shaft, but not before tossing something through the air. The other figure followed, trying to talk, but Kaladin couldn’t make out what was being said.

How long had he been in this hell? Far too long. And for what? Not wanting to execute innocents to send a message? Enough. If this other person was breaking free, then so was he. Grabbing the chains that bound him, he pulled with all his might. After struggling for what seemed like an eternity, finally one of them gave out, sending him onto his back. Soon the other chain was also loose.

Standing up and wadding up the chains, he started walking towards the doorway, walking past the other prisoners that lined the wall, most of them still stuck in the stupor that Kaladin had been in just moments ago. He had almost reached the door when his eyes fell on another figure. Although he was dirty, his hair and beard grown out and clothing ripped, the king of Halladren was burned into Kaladin’s eyes.

Kneeling before the other man, Kaladin looked into his face. Where the others had looked lost and absent of mind, the king’s head snapped up to look at Kaladin. Within his eyes he could see rage burning still, barely chained, as he himself. Kaladin bowed before the man, speaking with regret. I am sorry I couldn’t stop what happened in Halladren, though I tried my best. What do you say about breaking out of here?

The other man held his eyes for a long time. It seemed like he wasn’t going to respond, but then he simply nodded, rising to his feet in a smooth movement and ripping the left chain from the wall and then the right with such ease that it put Kaladin’s struggles to shame. With precise moves he strode out the doorway, into the opening and Kaladin followed behind. On the ground near the elevator one of the figures laid, not the one that had broken free from the cage.

As Kaladin was considering which route would be easiest, the elevator crashed to the floor, destroying the bottom of the shaft and sending a cloud of dust into the room. Their options reduced to one, the two made their way towards the staircase, though Kaladin made sure to pick up a metal rod on his way, as a makeshift spear.

They met very few guards on their climb, many of them had likely been called up to deal with the giant that was wreaking havoc above. Even though it was distant, Kaladin could hear the fighting up above. The entire prison shook for several moments, then it seemed to be over. The king led the way, determined in his rush. Seemingly an expert with the chains, he immobilized any guards that they encountered with ease. Dead or restrained they left them behind.

Soon they reached level three, where a single marine, who seemed to be vice admiral Yamakaji, fought. The hordes of prisoners threw themselves at him, and although he was far stronger than the individual foe, their numbers just proved too much. He was faltering before the onslaught. Kaladin had met the man before, but had never liked him. He seemed to see himself above others too much, and followed absolute justice, which Kaladin could never justify. So it was not with a heavy heart that Kaladin moved on upwards, leaving the man to his fate.

At the top floor they were met with a crowd blocking the exit. Both Kaladin and the king weaved their way through the press, breaking free into sunlight. On the pathway before them was a sight that left them both in awe. Two giants, one much bigger than the other lay. The bigger lay atop the smaller, who seemed to be the prisoner that had broken free from level six. Vice Admiral Ronse lay atop him, though he was not winning. Chains wrapped around his neck, he was fading fast. Even as they had just arrived, life fled from the larger giant. Pushing aside the dead corpse, the smaller giant let it sink into the moat that surrounded Impel Down.

As the victor rose to his feet Kaladin could finally make out who he was. Even though he was gaunt, his hair long and dirty and he had grown a long beard, Larsi the Quake was unmistakable. He had heard this man was dead, yet he had been here all along. What was going on?

No time to think about that though, things were moving too fast. Moments later the two escapees made their way onto the marine ship, ready to set sail. Larsi seemed to realize just like Kaladin, that the ship would not fit all the prisoners and set off without much warning. On the docks several of those left behind cried out to come back, save them. Some leapt into the water to swim to the ship. They suffered the worst fate, once the ocean froze.

Kaladin could barely believe his eyes once Larsi and the admiral each walked their own way. He snapped out of it when he saw the king walking across the deck of the ship towards admiral Aokiji, who was heading towards the prison now. His entire poise reeked of killing intent, and Kaladin realized what the man was about to do. Rushing forwards, he grabbed the man’s shoulder. With a swift move the other man slung his chains around Kaladin’s neck, the metal digging into his neck like a snake choking its prey. Kaladin managed to squeeze out a few words. You’ll… just die. That won’t… bring them… back.

Kaladin thought he was about to lose consciousness when finally the chains loosened. Breathing a sigh of relief, he leaned on the other man for support, breathing between his words. I am… sorry for what happened… to your people… your majesty. I am sorry… I could not save… anyone.

I am sorry too. Call me Zahel. Kaladin nodded. The other man probably didn’t want his identity out in the open. I am Kaladin.

Current Day​

Larsi left the blacksmith building behind and made his way towards the docks, intending to give directions to load up the Silver Bullet. Two figures emerged from a side street however, making their way towards Larsi. Although they were tall for humans, neither of them reached up to Larsi’s waist. One wore loose fitted clothing, tassels hanging from all ends, draping the ground behind him. Strapped to each of his sides was a sword, and he moved with disguised grace, as if he was intentionally slouching his movements, but it was all too fluid. The other man, slightly taller, wore a coat much like a military uniform, though it was blue with silver linings. His actual uniform underneath was much the same, and he carried a long spear in his hand, resting it on his shoulder as he walked with much more obvious determination. He bore markings on his forehead of some foreign script. Both had long hair and unkempt facial hair, but unlike Larsi’s had been, theirs were dark in color.

Stopping before them, the spearman saluted Larsi. Definitely a former military of some sort. The swordsman played his part of nonchalance to the point of almost being aloof. He remained quiet however, while the former spoke. Hello, Silver Hair. We could not help but overhear that you are going on an expedition, and we would like to join you. We were part of the prisoners that escaped with you. We owe you a debt, and would like to repay you.

My name is Kaladin, and this is Zahel. Kaladin gestured towards the other man, who nodded at Larsi. For some reason he looked familiar, though he couldn’t place why that was. He would have to interrogate him later. Kaladin however, continued speaking. Zahel here is a bit of a genius, and can make you some useful gadgets. Like this!

He turned sideways and held out his hand, showing a single coin. What was so special about the coin? The coin broke free from his hand on its own volition, soaring through the air, hitting the wall of a nearby building. Immediately, it snapped back, returning to Kaladin’s hand. The man smiled, grabbing the now mangled piece of metal.

It’s apparently just magnetic forces, it works off of this harness he made. Kaladin gestured towards a contraption strapped to his chest, held by leather straps that wrapped around his body underneath his coat. He has offered to make you one as well, if you will allow him the parts.

Larsi looked to Zahel, and the man simply nodded, without saying a word. And you?

Me? Other than besting any spearman I have ever encountered? Kaladin smiled, tapping a satchel that hung from his side. I am a medic.

Larsi considered the two of them only briefly before nodding approvingly. Alright. I will allow you to join me, though you will both tell me your stories before we get to our destination.

Zahel didn’t react to this, but Kaladin nodded and saluted once more. Shaking his head Larsi moved on to do what he was meant to do in the first place.

The Next Day​

The next morning Larsi strode across the same cobblestones he had the day before when Kaladin and Zahel had interrupted him. On his back he carried two large juttes, the handles both poking over his shoulder, the tips reaching almost down to his knees. They were a heavy burden, but not more than he would have wanted. They were comfortable weight, more so than the chains that wrapped around his wrists, even though the latter was lighter.

Stepping onto the docks, he could see that the Silver Bullet was almost ready to set off. Most of the dock was empty of crates, the last ones were already being loaded. Several of the pirates that clogged the docks stepped aside before the giant as he approached the ship, some even saluted him. By the gangplank he found the two men from the day before. Kaladin saluted him once more, and Zahel stepped forward, carrying a harness that looked comically large in his hands, speaking the first words he had ever done in the presence of Larsi. Bear in mind, you can only push away things that are heavier than yourself. If you try to push away something heavier, you will be pushed away. The same applies in case you try to pull on something heavier.

All the while he was speaking, Larsi was strapping on the contraption, under his own coat. He felt it tap into his own energy somehow, and in return he could pinpoint metal objects around him. The nails in the docks stood out especially. Curious, Larsi pushed on them. The wood croaked from the weight, but Larsi soared. Pushed into the air, he saw the ship, the dock, the people from even higher than he usually did. Then his ascent stopped, and he fell towards the ship. Noting several metal pieces on the vessel he pushed, but more gently. It slowed his descent and when he touched down it barely moved the ship. Kneeling, he caressed the deck of his ship. Sorry old friend, that is going to take some time getting used to.

Yes, you will want to be careful. Zahel spoke from his left. Kaladin trailed behind him, though both of them seemed impressed.

Alright, set sail. Larsi said, setting in motion several of the pirates on deck. The Silver Bullet left the Laughing Archipelago minutes later, pulling the navy ship that Larsi had arrived on only three days before. They would meet the fourth fleet at sea, joined by them on their assault of Briss.