: Despite not being related by blood, the three share a deep bond. Bell-mère encourages Nami's burgeoning talent for cartography, even though the family can barely afford the supplies Nami needs to draw her maps.
The peaceful life of the family is shattered when the Arlong Pirates , a group of powerful Fishmen, invade the island. Arlong imposes a brutal "life tax" on every resident: per adult and 50,000 Berries per child.
: Nojiko acts as the responsible elder sister, helping Bell-mère on the farm and keeping a watchful eye on the mischievous and ambitious Nami. The Arrival of the Arlong Pirates
The story begins years prior, following a devastating battle in the Oykot Kingdom. , a courageous and headstrong Marine, is found wounded on the battlefield. Despite her own injuries, she discovers two orphaned children: the infant Nami and the young Nojiko .
Inspired by their will to survive, Bell-mère decides to retire from the Marines and returns to her home, , to raise them as her own daughters. Life in Cocoyashi Village