Early the next morning.
White clouds drifted across the azure sky, and the morning sun cast its gentle rays over the vibrant plain.
With no one controlling its power anymore, the floating island of Vilmeu had long since fallen back onto the sea, while the Going Merry was docked by the shore.
Not far inland stood a small mountain village. Already dilapidated, it had nearly been reduced to rubble by the impact of the island's fall the night before.
The villagers were scattered throughout the ruins, busy with the cleanup. Many of the young and able-bodied men who had previously been taken by Golden Lion had also returned to reunite with their families.
"Rebuilding this place will be a huge undertaking."
"As long as everyone's alive, that's what matters."
"Hahaha, true enough."
"These old houses were due for renovations anyway."
Though the village had been destroyed, everyone wore smiles on their faces. The young men chatted and laughed as they cleared away the rubble.
"We're back, everyone!"
Luffy's grinning figure slowly came down the hillside, dragging a massive porcupine behind him as several figures emerged from behind him.
"Our benefactors are back!"
"They actually hunted such a huge beast!"
"Quick, everyone! Set up the pots and light the fires!"
Seeing the Straw Hat Crew return from their hunt, the villagers cheered excitedly and immediately became energized.
"You big brothers and sisters are so strong!"
"I'm going to sea and become a pirate someday too!"
"Me too! I'm going to become a pirate like Straw Hat big brother!"
Several children held wooden sticks in their hands, gazing at them with admiration. Waving the sticks like swords, they soon began laughing and playing around.
"You're pretty popular, Luffy. Everyone here sees you as a hero."
Usopp nudged Luffy with his elbow and