#and then fishman island was so bad i peaced out before finishing it

[gwydionae]

I love that my sister randomly sent me a video of my nephew playing his cello, having taught himself the short ditty that plays over each live action One Piece title card, and the only "dialogue" is her going "ARRRR" like a pirate at the end (with me nephew making a GRRR face in response).

(BTW this is a "watch out for lots of One Piece posts sorry not sorry" warning, lol.)

[angelsdevils]

Arlong x OC

Title: Until Next Time 2.2 No Warning

Sophia had finally become Queen of Sabaody. She never forgot Arlong even though they had stopped talking when they got older due to him becoming a pirate and Sophia becoming Queen. She had high hopes of seeing her childhood crush again.

"Queen Sophie, you know it's not safe to be near the water."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. Leave me in peace."

"But Queen..." Sophia glared at her Butler, and he bowed his head, leaving the Queen to herself.

"Well, you certainly have changed in appearance and personality. But I still know where to find you." Sophia turned to see a large shark, Fishman making his way toward her.

"Arlong?" The Fishman smirked and held Sophia's waist.

"Yours truly."

"Why are you here? I didn't put my plan into effect yet. It's dangerous."

"Well, to do that, you need to get to Fishman Island first."

"Do you plan to help me?" Sophia asked, smiling hugging Arlong's neck.

"I do plan to help you. After all, Fishman wants peace with humans, but humans, on the other hand, will be a lot more difficult because they fear us."

"I don't see why."

"Because Fishman is far more superior than humans."

"Watch it, Arlong."

"I am only speaking ~" Sophie cut Arlong off by pressing her lips to his.

"Hush." She whispered against his lips before pulling away smiling at him.

"You seriously got to stop doing that," Arlong mumbled with tinted cheeks.

"Why? I enjoy kissing you."

"Because I am trying to hate humans, but you are making it quite hard, Sophie." Arlong looked away.

"Well, good, I don't want you to hate humans. We all aren't bad."

"I know that because I like you," Arlong mumbled out, and Sophie blushed, hiding her face in his chest.

"Queen Sophie.... we should head back. It's getting late." Arlong slowly unwrapped his arms from around Sophie's waist.

"I will meet you later," Arlong said, stroking her hair behind her ear.

"Okay, see ya later, alligator."

"I am a shark Fishman, not an alligator." Sophie stuck her tongue out, smiling at Arlong before going to where her Butler was.

"You are so in love," Kuroobi said.

"With a species, he hates most chu~."

"Shut up. You guys enjoy her presence too." Arlong snapped, jumping into the water. Sophie slipped into the shower, taking a long hot shower sighing as she smiled to herself. Once she finished showering, she put on her white nightgown with ruffles at the end. She went to her window and unlocked it before lying in her bed, drifting to light sleep. She began to dream of a better future for the Fishman and the humans. And of a certain Fishman who had her heart. Arlong managed to wait until dark before sneaking into Sophia's room and watching her sleep. Her hair was sprawled all over the pillow. He walked quietly to the side of her bed and kissed her forehead. She stirred slightly, opening her eyes to see Arlong beside her bed.

"Arlong..." She whispered, hurrying over, and Arlong laid down, and Sophia cuddled into his chest.

"Hmmm?"

"I am glad I met you."

"I am glad as well," Arlong said, which no longer shocked him when it came to Sophie. He held her tighter.

"I know we talked less nowadays due to me being a pirate and you being the Queen. But I do want to marry you." Arlong said in her hair.

"I would say yes, but..." Arlong cut her off.

"No buts. I know you are expected to marry a human."

"No, I am expected to marry royalty. Fishman or human, preferably human, could be of any species as long as royalty."

"Do you think I abide by rules?"

"NO, but I do."

"Do you not care for me?"

"That's not it. I love you so much, Arlong. But I.... can't."

"Sophie, why marry someone you don't love?"

"...because of everything I want to achieve. Because of my dreams Arlong. I want to become one with the Fishman and to do that. I have to marry royalty if I want to get married." Arlong grunted, looking at the ceiling.

"I won't accept this."

"Why?"

"You are so clueless, Sophie. I love you, and I finally accepted my feelings for you after trying to deny them." Even though she already knew, Sophie's eyes widened at the confession because Arlong wasn't the one to confess his feelings. Arlong stole a kiss from her before stroking her hair again.

"I can't let the one I love marry someone else. Even if that means I have to kidnap you." Arlong smirked, and Sophie blinked.

"K-Kidnap? But I wo~."

"I know you won't be able to attempt to make peace." Arlong rolled his eyes.

"Arlong, I am sorry." Sophie turned her head, so Arlong wouldn't see the tears that threatened to fall. She sat up, putting her back to him, and Arlong wrapped his arms around her waist from behind and kissed her cheek.

"I know you have good intentions, but I love you. I loved you since the day you jumped into the conversations I and the others were having. And you said it yourself. You love me too."

"You were right. Not all humans are bad. You are the walking truth of that. You have the biggest heart I know. And that is why I fell for you, a human." Arlong turned her around and wiped her tears away. She looked up at him.

"W-What do we do then?"

"Let our relationship known. Sure, people will go against our relationship, but it could be a start."

"It's going to be a rough ride, though. Are you sure you want to go through that?"

"With you. Yes."

"Well.. in that case, Arlong, yes. Yes, I will marry you." Arlong smiled and pulled her back down on his chest as he laid on his back, and they shared a sweet passionate kiss.

As months went by, the Fishman and humans of Saboady realized Arlong's and Sophie's relationship. Half were pleased while the other half weren't. And I am sure you can tell which side was which. Much to Sophie's and Arlong's surprise, her parents approved.

"Sophie, we knew you snuck out to see him since you were young. That's when we knew you had what it takes to possibly eliminate some of the hatred in this world." Sophie's mom said the former Queen smiled.

"Don't you dare hurt my daughter?" Her father said to Arlong

"I don't have such intentions." He said and held Sophie's hand, kissing the top of it. As the wedding day neared, Fishman and merfolk started to make their way on the land, and humans adjusted to the difference. After the wedding, Sophia met King Neptune, his three sons, and his daughter. And not long after that, the law for humans and Fishman was to live in harmony. And all the enslaved people were freed from their captures. Arlong became the first freshman to become a king on land.

"So... I just met Luffy."

"Don't you dare," Arlong grunted?

"Hey, they don't seem that bad. You must have been doing something you weren't supposed to be back then."

"If I told you. You would hate me."

"You should apologize to Nami even if she doesn't forgive you."

"I can't."

"Arlong."

"I hate to say it, but because they did help out with the Marines that caused trouble here. I invited them, Jinbei, Hatchan, Kuroobi, Chew, my parents over for dinner." Sophia said, curling her hair. Arlong stopped and looked at her and backed hugged her.

"Why do you hate me?"

"I don't hate you. It's just Luffy."

"No, you didn't tell me your parents were coming."

"I just did."

"Sooner."

"I gave you an hour heads up."

"Hour!?" Sophia set her curling iron down and turned to kiss Arlong.

"Arlong, we went through the protests of my land for our marriage. You threaten to kidnap me."

"Because you were going to marry someone else, what does that have to do with this?"

"You knew what you were getting into." Arlong rubbed his face with his webbed hand.

"You are something else. You know when you first kissed my cheek, you embarrassed me."

"Why, it was the cheek."

"No one ever did that to me, even when you first kissed me on the lips. You were the first."

"Good, you were my first kiss too. Oh, by the way, I have another surprise."

"What now? I am trying to reminisce on the good times."

"I figure I should tell you before announcing it to my parents tonight. I am pregnant."

"Oh, okay, sweet.. wait, what!? YOU GOTTA TELL ME THIS!"

"I did tell you."

"Sophie. How long?"

"I just went to the hospital yesterday. I am 2 months pregnant." Arlong sighed and wrapped his arms around her waist, nuzzling her neck.

"I love you even if you drive me insane."

"I love you too. As your wife, it's my duty to drive you up the wall."

[silenceofthecookies]

B’s day at Sabaody

This was my gift for @ask-wbp-b​ for the Valentines gift exchange, posted with her permission 💖

B stretched as she woke up, only stopping after hearing that satisfying crack coming from her shoulders. She sat up and looked fondly at her right thigh, admiring the tattoo she had gotten only a few days ago. She took the cream Marco had given her from her nightstand and spread some of it over the tattoo. It itched like hell, but she knew better than to scratch at it. Slapping the tattoo lightly a few times after she had finished applying the cream, B was satisfied with the result and got up from her bed. She got dressed, put on her glasses and tied up her hair before leaving her cabin for breakfast.

At the breakfast table she was greeted by Ace, Marco and Thatch. Ace excitedly signalled for B to come sit with them. She nodded and sat down with them, wondering if the kid was just a bit more energetic than usual this morning, or if that was her imagination.

“Morning B!” Ace greeted with his mouth full. “Morning all.” B said as she made brief eye contact with the other two men at the table as well. They both wished her a good morning as well, though not nearly as loudly as Ace. “What’s got you so excited, Ace?” she asked. “We’re docking at Sabaody today, right?! There’s so much fun stuff to do there! Haruta told me that-“ “Yes, Ace. We’re docking at Sabaody, but we’re also gonna have to say for a few days until they finish coating the ship, so you’d better not get in trouble.” Marco interrupted, a somewhat disapproving expression visible on his face. “Don’t worry Marco, I won’t get in trouble!” “That’s what you say every time, Ace! There’s going to be Celestial Dragons there! And lots of marines! This is serious!” Marco exclaimed, followed by a sigh. He rubbed his temples, already feeling the headache that was bound to come somewhere today. Thatch and B laughed at the sight. Breakfast was accompanied by a combination of Ace recounting all the fun stuff Haruta told him he could do at Sabaody, and Marco and Thatch trying to warn Ace to not get into trouble. B was a little worried about the situation, knowing that Celestial Dragons walked around here frequently, but she wasn’t too worried. Nothing major would happen here, otherwise she’d know of it. The real danger was still many years away. Ace only just joined them, and Thatch hadn’t found any devil fruit yet.

“B? Hey B? Earth to B!” “Huh? What?” She looked over to Marco, who was smiling at her. “Welcome back, B. I asked how your tattoo was healing.” “Oh, it’s coming along great!” “Have you been using that cream I gave you?” “I have, used it this morning just after waking up.” “Are there scabs on there yet?” “Yes, they’ve started forming on the lines.” “Don’t scratch them, you-“ “Fushichou chan! I know, you’ve given me the rundown of tattoo care three times already, it’s fine! I’m covering it from the sun, I’m using the cream regularly, I’m not scratching at it. I’m not gonna go against your advice, I want it to heal nicely.” “You’re right, sorry. Force of habit.” “That’s alright, but next time no doctoring at the table.” “Are they seriously flirting at breakfast already?” Ace silently asked Thatch. “Shhhh they’re ‘just friends’” Thatch laughed. “What are you two whispering about?” Marco asked, squinting his eyes. “Ace just asked me about the food on Sabaody!” Thatch quickly covered. He sounded pretty convincing as well.

Marco didn’t really buy it, but he dropped the topic there, preferring to keep the rest of breakfast as peaceful as possible.

After breakfast, everyone got to their chores. Most people were cleaning up, as was traditional before going to fishman island. Once under water most people would be staring at the ocean and all life in it, since it was a rare opportunity, meaning they would not be paying any attention to their chores. There were always people on watch on all sides, mostly commanders, to make sure no sea monsters would attack the bubble.

Once she finished up cleaning the things she was assigned to, B packed a small bag with things she’d need the coming days. Nobody was allowed on the ship as it was getting coated. With how big the crew was, everyone would just be in the way of the coaters and slow down the process. There was also the risk of people accidently messing up the coating or distracting the coater. After double-checking if she had all the essentials, B left her cabin and headed towards the gangplank.

Several people were already leaving the ship. B arrived just in time to see Ace run away from the ship, Marco following closely behind. The sight made her smile. Things had changed ever since Ace had joined them, and even though she knew full well what the future held for him, seeing the young man never failed to brighten her mood.

B paid close attention to her surroundings as she walked around on Sabaody, dead set on avoiding any Celestial Dragons, marines, or any other people who could disturb the peace of the coming few days. Everyone from the Whitebeard pirates tried to lay low during the days the ship got coated, especially those with high bounties. Once the marines knew they were there, protecting the ship until the coating was done would be a real mess.

This didn’t stop her from having some fun though. There were a ton of good food stalls scattered all over the island. There was also the amusement park, which B always loved to visit. She had mentioned her love for it, especially the Ferris wheel, to Marco a few days ago, and he had suggested going for a ride together. B had been looking forward to it, but she didn’t expect for it to happen today anymore with Marco babysitting Ace. There was no rush though. They would be here for a few days, and nothing was stopping B from going for a ride on her own.

For now though, she settled on stretching her legs and getting used to the feeling of land under her feet again, even if it wasn’t actually land but tree roots. As she was walking, she picked her brain on her knowledge about this archipelago. She knew that in the future for sure, someone would be living on one of the groves, someone she hadn’t seen in a long time. But would he be living here already now? No matter how much she picked her memory, she couldn’t remember. Her feet, however, had already made up their mind and were headed towards Grove 13.

Soon enough, she found herself in front of familiar building. It seemed to be in a slightly better shape than B remembered. She somehow found herself being nervous as she walked up to the bar. There was no guarantee Rayleigh would even be there. It would be nice to catch up with him for sure, but explaining the situation to Shakky if he wasn’t there would be awkward. Before she could even make up her mind, the door to the bar opened and a figure left the building. A very familiar figure.

Rayleigh.

B felt her cheeks heat up immediately. He still looked as good as she remembered. As Rayleigh approached her, a smile appeared on his face.

“B, is that you? It’s been so long! How have you been?” “I’ve been good, thanks. How have you been?” B asked, trying to sound as casual as possible. “I’m great, Sabaody is a great place to stay. There’s good things, there’s enough places to gamble, there’s a lot of interesting people coming through…” “Sounds like you’re having a great time.” “I am. You’re welcome to join me, you know.” “Thanks, but no thanks. You know my place is with the Whitebeard pirates.” “So you’ve told me before, too bad.”

The two of them chatted a little while longer as B tried her very best to not turn into a flustered mess. Rayleigh noticed but didn’t mention it. B was the same as always, though she had learned to control her emotions a little better over the years.

“Say, B, how about we go for a drink together? For old times sake?” Rayleigh asked with a grin. Before B could even answer, a familiar voice called out to her from behind her. As she turned around, she noticed Marco approaching her. “There you are B! Have you seen Ace?” Marco asked. He looked over to see Rayleigh standing next to you, and nodded at him as a greeting. “I haven’t. Did you lose him?” B asked. “Kind of. That boy is as slippery as a snail. Thatch is also looking for him, if we leave him to his own devices there will be trouble, I can feel it.” “There probably will be… want me to help you look for him?” “That’d be great.” “Alright.” B nodded at Marco and then turned back to Rayleigh. “I’ve got to go. It was nice to see you again, maybe I’ll see you again in the coming days.” “I sure hope so. Be safe out there, B.” Rayleigh smiled and pulled her into a hug. B happily returned the gesture, maybe a little too happily, “You too. Bye, Rayleigh!”

B walked away from the bar with Marco, back towards the more touristic parts of the archipelago. The walk back was filled in silence, though it was a little different from the usual silence. It was less comfortable than usual.

“Marco, is something wrong?” “No, nothing is wrong. How about we get on the Ferris wheel? We might be able to spot Ace from up there.” “If you want a bird’s view you could fly around?” “Yes, of course, blue phoenixes flying around the archipelago doesn’t draw any attention at all.” “You’re right, let’s go then.”

The two of them walked towards the amusement park and got in line for the Ferris wheel. It took a little while of waiting, but luckily nothing too long. B noticed Marco glancing over at her a few times, but every time she caught him looking, he just smiled and looked away again. Something was definitely off.

Once they got into the gondola they both took one side of the wheel, looking out over the archipelago. It didn’t take long for B to spot Ace. He was being dragged away from the amusement park by Thatch. Ace’s arms were full of different kinds of food, and his cheeks were puffed out as he continued stuffing food into his mouth. The sight made B laugh, and she quickly called Marco over to come see. It was a huge relief to see that Ace was safe. B and Marco sat down next to each other on the bench after that, deciding to enjoy the rest of the ride.

“Hey, B?” “What?” “What were you and Rayleigh talking about?” “Oh you know, just watching up a little. He actually asked me to go grab a drink with him as you arrived. Why?” “No reason, just curious.” “Fushichou chan, are you jealous?” B grinned at the realisation. “Nah, why would I be?” Marco answered casually, and if B didn’t know any better, she would have believed that her guess was wrong. “Aww, that’s cute. No need to be though. Rayleigh asked me to stay on the archipelago but I turned him down.”

Marco let out a sigh of relief. He knew how B got around Rayleigh, and he did feel a little threatened by his presence when it came to B. Knowing she turned him down when he directly asked her that greatly eased his mind. What B didn’t know is that his fear wasn’t just about her leaving the crew again. It was also about losing her to him, even if he hadn’t made his feelings known to her yet.

“That’s a relief.” “Aww, is that why you were acting weird? Were you worried I’d be staying?” “Yes, I sure was. You left our crew once before you know, I wouldn’t want you to do that again.” Marco half lied.

B smiled and turned towards him. She cupped one of his cheeks with her hand, pulling it a little closer to her own face to place a kiss on the other cheek. The gesture surprised Marco, but he couldn’t say he disliked it. Not at all. A smile started spreading on his face as B let go of his face. In a sudden boost of confidence he put his arms around her shoulders and pulled B against him as he leaned back against the bench again.

The rest of the ride was spent in silence one again, however, with this cleared up, all tension was gone. When the gondola started descending, he felt a little disappointed, knowing he’d have to let go and get up soon.

“Hey, B?” “What’s up?” “Let’s go for another gondola ride tomorrow.” “Are you asking me on a date, fushichou chan?” “What if I am?” The words left his mouth with an amount of confidence that surprised even Marco himself. “I’d say yes.”

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

A WHIFF OF NOSTALGIA

One-shot #: 9

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot. PWP.

Rating: T

Note: In honor of the Romance Dawn Trio (or 2/3 of the RDT). Because they are really missed.

Summary: She wanted to remember. She wanted to bask at the feeling of remembering the beginning…

Nami's eyes squinted against the harsh glare of the mid-afternoon sun.

The Straw Hats had just arrived on a quaint and surprisingly peaceful island—a rare find in the tumultuous New World.

A quick survey done by their archaeologist and doctor revealed that the island is not a territory of any of the monstrous Yonko, nor is it under the protection of the marines. It had most of the crew sighing in relief as they relish at the thought that they can somehow relax.

It was almost too good to be true—finding a place not touched by the turbulence happening in the New World. She had gotten used to docking on islands and getting into unwanted confrontations and fights that a brief respite seems like an unachievable dream.

She stepped into the port and perused the docks for any sign of movements or life. Robin had said something about the town’s weird practice of closing shops and businesses, stalling all work and affairs in favor of taking naps during the day’s hottest hours.

Great. An island fit for their lazy swordsman.

Even with that knowledge, the others still headed out to explore said island. Nami was about to head into town herself (shops may be closed, but hey, she can survey the place for cartography purposes); when she stopped short by the dock to take in the island’s scenic view.

The Mugiwara’s navigator lifted a hand to shade her eyes from the sun’s glare.

This island is beautiful. She mused as her chocolate brown eyes surveyed the surroundings. The colors around her are so vibrant and the sun up in the sky just served to heighten their rich, natural hues—turning the greens of the forest, greener; the blue of the sea, bluer. The mid-afternoon rays also created beautiful sparkles across the ocean as if someone carelessly scattered numerous pricey jewels on it.

Somehow it feels like she’s back on Conomi Islands in East Blue.

Nostalgia suddenly kicked in. Memories of a lifetime ago resurfaced, bringing to mind images of warm smiles and soothing scents of cigarette smoke and tangerines.

There was a sudden movement at the corner of her eye and her brown orbs shifted to look at the boats bobbing idly on top of the water. Their small flags swayed with the ocean breeze, beckoning at her.

A smile made its way across her lips and she moved to approach them.

There was nothing special about the boats, to be honest. They are small, typical-looking and are probably owned by the fishermen living in the island. They don’t really look that sturdy. A strong storm will sweep it away ruthlessly and crack it to smithereens.

But somehow looking at them, another wave of nostalgia swept inside her.

This time the memory is of two ordinarily simple boats sailing side by side; one with a plain white sail and the other with a clown Jolly Roger, heading towards adventure.

And freedom. She thought wistfully as she stared at the glinting sea. Life back then revolved around stealing treasures, reporting back to Arlong, and then stealing treasures again—a never ending cycle.

Or so she thought.

Then came Luffy. And then Zoro. And everything just went from bad to good and then to better.

If it weren't for that chance encounter, she and her island would still be in the grasp of that detestable saw shark fishman.

Unconsciously, she extended a foot to lightly tap one of the boats, watching it bobbed atop the water.

It was almost perfect. Just like the boats that took them to Gecko Islands where Usopp’s village lies.

All that is missing is a barrel of apples, a goofy smile under a straw hat and a haughty smirk on a face still not marred by a scar.  

Nami’s smile widened at that. They've come a long way haven't they? With lots of adventures, new found friends and a ship awesome enough to sail to the ends of the world.

Without second thoughts, she stepped into the boat just so she could remember what it feels like to be in something so simple, so little and so... exposed. She wondered what will it be like to sail this humble contraption in the New World sea—even for just a moment.

"Oi Nami,"

Someone had suddenly called her and she automatically turned towards the voice, a bit peeved at the intrusion on her wistful moment.

Roronoa Zoro was standing on the dock with a serious expression on his face, one eye fixed intently at her.

"Zoro," she returned evenly, mirroring the serious countenance of her green-haired nakama. Gone now was the young man with the lax attitude and expression. Somehow, their journey changed them. A lot.

Especially him.

He used to laugh so boisterously and unrestrainedly.

The swordsman took a step towards her, a frown marring his features. Nami stayed silent as she watched him took in the boat, trying to find a reason why the orange-haired navigator was standing on it.

"You're not planning on leaving us again are you?" He asked after a few seconds of contemplation.

Nami's eyes widened at that. What the...?

And despite herself she started laughing.

What an incredulous notion! Trust Zoro to come up with something as stupid as that.

Said swordsman merely folded his arms across his chest, apparently not amused with her reaction.

"Hahaha! Where in the four seas did you get that idea?" Nami asked in between laughs. "Hahaha! Gosh Zoro, you have the weirdest sense of humor honestly. Hahaha!"

"Well given the history…" he began and Nami cut him off by suddenly grabbing at the hem of his green garb.

The tall lad frowned as Nami pulled at his robe lightly. When he didn't budge, she pulled again. "Join me Zoro," she said a bit cheekily for his taste.

He merely lifted an eyebrow at her demand.

"Come on," she tugged at him again.

"What are you doing?"

Nami sighed in exasperation. Knowing this man, it would take a loooong explanation as to why she wants him on the boat. And Zoro would take a loooong time before getting her point.

"Just join me ok?"

With a snort, the former pirate hunter surprisingly complied with her demand, more to stop her from tugging his clothes off him than anything.

"Now what?" He asked as stepped into the boat to join her. It swayed slightly from the added weight and Nami wavered a bit, out of balance, being used to the sturdy deck of the Thousand Sunny.

Automatically, the swordsman’s hand shot up to grab her arm to steady her.

She looked up to him and grinned sassily. "Thanks Zoro! Now all we need is another boat and a barrel of apples," she declared, looking around. Though she doubts if he would get it, knowing well how the green-haired idiot’s mind works.

 This time, both of Zoro's eyebrows lifted questioningly. "A barrel of apples?! Hey are you experiencing a heat stroke or something?" He asked, looking at her as if she had grown two extra heads. "I can go fetch Chopper so he can look at you."

"Oh shut it, you still won't get it even if I explain it."

"OI!"

Nami dismissed his retort with a wave of her hand. "Just stop asking questions and do as I say, I'll buy you some drinks later."

That shut him up and definitely put him in a rather agreeable mood.

"Hmmm," she pondered, looking at the other boats around her. "Should I borrow another?" She tapped a finger underneath her chin as she considered her options.

Zoro decided to settle down on the boat, removing his swords from his sash. He set them beside him before resting his broad back on the boat’s side, yawning. "Isn't that called stealing?" He questioned as he languidly stretched his legs in front of him. He stole a glance at the mapmaker before placing both of his hands behind his head.

Nami glared at him. "Didn't you hear what I said? BORROWING. I'll bring it back later."

"Why do you need to BORROW a boat? Or boats?" Zoro emphasized the word ‘borrow’, looking curiously at her. "You need to sail or something? Use the mini-merry."

"Tch," she sounded out in a tone that clearly says she thinks he's an idiot.

Zoro just scoffed and closed his eye. Right now, a nap sounds just about good. He'll let Nami do whatever the hell she wants and leave her to her crazy ideas. He’s into this for the free drinks after all.

A few seconds later he felt the boat started to drift towards the sea.

He opened an eye to see Nami had just finished adjusting the small sail. The sea breeze blew lifting the strands of her long, orange hair.

He sat straight, checking if she indeed got another boat and was a bit relieved to see that she did not.

"Nami," he called her. “The hell are you really doing?"

"Just relax Zoro," she moved to sat across him, stretching her legs the same way he did and taking the space beside his own. "We're just sailing. It's a beautiful day, after all."

Zoro’s eye gazed at the enthralling blue of water in front of them before shifting towards her warily. “You’re not planning to drown me in the middle of the sea, are you?” He just had to blurt that one out.

Nami’s eyes narrowed at his allegation and she glared at him with enough coldness to freeze the entire New World seas.

“That is actually a good idea,” she replied scathingly. “One less mouth to feed and drink the booze barrels dry.”  

“You mean it’ll help you save some money, you stingy onna,” Zoro countered. Swiftly, he moved his leg out of the way before Nami can give it a good kick.

“So?” Nami huffed. She stopped trying to kick his leg once his hand was able to catch her ankle. “My stinginess put clothes on your back and food and booze in your mouth.”

The green-haired lad grinned sardonically. “And you have my gratitude, really.”

Nami pulled her leg out of his grasp, sticking her tongue out at him before shifting her attention towards the bow. He only grinned widely at her childish response. It’s nice to rile her up every once in a while. He finds it oddly relaxing… that is if she did not manage to pull him into a shouting match that seems to become a source of entertainment for some of their crewmates.

The wind blew her long hair back and Zoro noted that there was this certain warm smile on her face as he watched her keenly. They’ve been reunited for some time now but he rarely gets the chance to look at her up close since most of the time they are screaming at each other’s faces or there would be too much nakama around them or too much happening around them or all at the same time.

He followed her example and watched the boat’s front bobbed up and down the waves. Occasionally the sea water sprayed over them, salty and stinging.

If he had known he’ll be doing this instead of spending the day sitting inside one of the town’s taverns with a mug of beer in his hand, he would’ve brought some fishing tools. Fishing sounds absolutely good right now and the weather’s rather perfect for it too.

He nudged Nami’s leg with his, to get her attention.

“Where are we really going?” He questioned again once she had her gaze on him.

“Nowhere in particular,” she replied with a smile too enigmatic for Zoro to just dismiss.

“Na-mi,” he said her name a bit exasperatedly. She knows how he hates asking questions repeatedly.

She rolled her eyes at his impatience. She’s not really bothered with it and was used to it. His idiocy on the other hand, is another thing.

“I just want to head out to the middle of the sea Zo-ro,” she explained, using the same tone he used when he said her name.

“Why?”

Nami groaned. “Just indulge me. I did promise you free beers.”

“I’m sure you’ll be wiggling out the payment for my ‘free’ beers from some gullible, lascivious townsfolk,” Zoro muttered.

The navigator just smirked at him. “Do not patronize my ways pirate hunter,” she languorously settled both of her legs on top of his. She crossed her arms on her chest and smiled smugly at him. “I’m a pirate after all.”

Zoro snorted. “You didn’t want to be one when I met you.”

That stilled the mapmaker. Then her smirk turned into an amused smile. “Yeah I didn’t want to be.” Her eyes seemed to dance with merriment at the memory. “You remembered.”

“Why wouldn’t I?”

She shrugged. “I don’t know. You hardly remember people you fought with before or some other events we’ve experienced.”

“That’s because they’re insignificant.”  

His answer made her smile reach her eyes.

“Besides,” he continued. “Luffy won’t shut up about getting you as our navigator.” 

“Real-ly?” Nami mouthed humorously. She knows how adamant Luffy was about making her their navigator even after finding out that she betrayed them.

“Yeah. What do you think made me follow you to your village?”

Nami looked at him pointedly, waiting for him to explain.

Zoro stared back at her without so much a blink. “Captain ordered me to bring his navigator back.”

“Oh? So you didn’t do it out of your own volition?”

“Now why would I do that?” Zoro frowned, placing both of his hand behind his head. With a tiger-like yawn he continued, “I couldn’t care less if you were our navigator or not.”

Nami responded by kicking his leg again, making sure to make the heel of her shoe dug into his dumb skin painfully.

Zoro’s hand quickly closed around her ankle again, lifting her foot away before it can make a hole in his leg. “Damn it Nami!”

“You are such an ass,” Nami hissed at him, obviously peeved at his answer.

“Hey, you went and run off with the Merry leaving all of us behind, clueless.” He shoved her leg away from him rather brusquely.

“Well you damn know I had my reasons!” Nami retorted, glowering at his barbaric treatment of her leg. She bent a little to check if he had done any damage to her dainty ankle with that powerful hand of his, even if she knows that he wouldn’t deliberately hurt her.

A nerve ticked on Zoro’s forehead as he watched her. He knows well enough that Nami’s gonna use this as blackmail material.

Like he would let her. Huffing, he lightly swatted her hand away to check himself. She’s not gonna hold this one over him.

Without another word, he gently placed her feet on his thigh and started massaging her ankle.

Nami’s lips curled into pleased smile. So someone’s thinking ahead eh? Blackmails and debts really work well with Zoro.

“Do not think this makes us even,” she wagged a finger at him.

“Tch. Always with the blackmail and debt interest shit.”

“Of course!”

Two years and Nami is still as money-loving as when he first met her.

“Sometimes you are not all that bad Zoro,” Nami said with a sigh as she watched him knead her ankle.

“I don’t think there’s any damage at all,” Zoro ignored what she said, stopping his ministration. “It’s not like you’re delicate as you would like other people to think.”

A snarl escaped Nami’s lips. “And sometimes you are this bad.” She pouted, taking back what she said earlier.

Zoro just laughed in response, pushing both of her legs away from his own. “You’re much worse than me woman,” he smirked arrogantly at her. “You are bad all the time.”

“Why you!” She gritted her teeth and launched herself at him so she can bonk that stupid marimo head of his repeatedly for saying that.

The boat tipped dangerously from her movement. And Nami’s heart skipped a beat at the thought of going overboard.

But thankfully she did not. She stopped or rather, was stopped by Zoro’s hand closing around her wrists.

“Hahaha!” Zoro laughed again when he saw her reaction both at his teasing and from nearly going overboard. “You should know better than that Nami.” His deep voice was warmed by a rarely expressed mirth before he laughed again.

Nami stared at the him. Amazed.

When was the last time Zoro sounded so carefree?

Though he was laughing at her expense. But, oh well, she can always charge a ridiculous amount of beli under his name for that.

She just watched him for a moment, so loud and rowdy that she can’t help but smile at seeing him laughing without so much a care in the world.

Just like the younger Zoro from the good old days.

Nami relaxed a little before pulling her hand away from his grasp to bonk him on the head… lightly.

“If you fall, I’m not rescuing you.”

“Oh shut up!”

The swordsman continued laughing and she was tempted to hit him much harder but she decided against it.

Seeing the usually sullen and stoic man like this is a rare treat after all. Honestly, she was a bit worried that the further they sailed into the New World, the more Zoro turned serious and dangerous.

Though she understands how perilous their journey is now unlike when they were in the Grand Line. Understand that he needs to be much stronger, more focused and at times more merciless because a wrong move can cost them all their lives.

But sometimes, she wishes that he didn’t have to change so much.

“Afraid to get wet Nami?” Zoro’s voice cut through her thoughts. He was smiling wickedly at her, alerting the navigator that he was up to no good.

“Don’t you dare Zoro,” she moved away from him. With his strength, he can easily toss her to the sea if he wants too. “I’ll have Zeus fry your hide if you throw me overboard.”

That earned her another laugh from the green-haired man.

She made a show of grabbing her Clima-tact and Zoro promptly stopped laughing but not before throwing a mischievous smirk her way.

A sea gull cried overhead, casting a shadow on their small boat. They looked up as it soared above them, their gazes following its white form as it flew towards where the Sunny was anchored and perched itself on the crow's nest’s roof.

The pirate flag atop the nest flapped wildly, its black color a stark contrast against the clear blue sky. Somehow the movement made the skull wearing a straw hat seemed to smile at them from its spot.

Who would’ve thought that they’d be sailing under a jolly roger as ludicrous as that? Not to mention under a captain who is just as equally ridiculous.

Both seemed to be lost in their own thoughts, not noticing that a small smile had graced each of their lips. Was it really years ago when they first decided to join Luffy in his crazy adventures? Time sure flies fast.

They continued sailing onto the deeper part of the sea where the turquoise water turned to ultramarine. The wind blew stronger and a blur of orange caught Zoro’s eye.

Nami’s hair looked so vibrant under the afternoon sun. It stood out against the cool hues of blues and greens that surrounded them. It was a good thing she decided to grow it longer when they were separated. It suits her better. She looked far different from that short-haired, cheeky brat that he always needs to lookout for and save.  

He heaved a sigh. When had they grown up?

It wasn’t long ago when they were all just dilly-dallying in the Grand Line.

Now…

Zoro decided to break the silence that settled between, and also to stop the weird thoughts that seemed to emerge from the deepest recesses of his mind.

“Thought you were gonna go shopping with Robin?" He suddenly asked out of the blue, catching Nami off-guard.

“Hmmm? How did you know?”

“You always shop whenever we dock.”

Nami’s hair whipped across her face. She brought a hand up to hold the untameable stands and grinned. “I was supposed to, but something caught my attention…” she tilted her face towards the wind, letting it caress her face and blow her long orange locks back. “Haven’t felt like this in a long time.”

“What?”

“Just sailing you know,” she answered, taking a deep breath of the salty sea air.

"Huh?"  

“Just sailing…” she repeated.

“I don’t get it.”

Nami blew at the bangs in her forehead in exasperation. “Just sailing Zoro. Just. Sailing.” She stared at him, gauging his reaction. His face was scrunched up in a manner that says he doesn’t get it still.

Zoro grumbled inwardly. He was hoping she’d finally give him the damn reason why they were sailing in the middle of the sea instead of painting the middle of the town red. The woman in front of him was not making any sense at all.

“If I had known you wanted to just laze around and drift aimlessly, I should’ve bought some sake with me,” he muttered. It was, after all, a very fine and relaxing day. Perfect for napping, fishing or drinking. All the things he likes.

Nami pursed her lips disapprovingly. “Tch. Always complaining!”

He glowered at her. “I have a lot to complain with you dragging me out here with nothing to do but sail and stare at you.”

A Cheshire cat-like grin spread across Nami’s lips and Zoro mentally punched himself. That did not come out right.

“Oh?” Nami said teasingly. She nudged his leg with her foot. “You can also stare at the view around you Zoro. That is if you are tired of staring at me.”

The swordsman groaned. She will not let him live this down.

“I didn’t mean it like that.”

“Oh so what do you mean?”

Zoro exhaled heavily. He owed her no explanations. “I need a drink,” he muttered. “Let’s just go back to the docks.”

Nami tut-tutted, shaking a finger at him. “You are not getting away with this Zoroo,” she sing-songed.

“Yes I am woman,” he growled. “Turn the boat around. I need my drink!”

“Ah, don’t you want to stare at me longer while we sail?”

Zoro shot her a venomous glare, his face turning red.

“I’m kidding Zoro, no need to be so uptight!”

“I’m not!”

She winked at him suggestively. “Aw Zoro, it’s not that bad,” she tried to appease him by patting his knee. “It’s free to stare. I won’t charge you I promise!”

“Woman, if you don’t turn this boat around I’ll chuck you overboard.”

Nami threw her head back and laughed. If Zoro’s face could get any redder, his head would surely explode. He was scowling darkly at her now, embarrassed at his slip up.

Regardless. She does appreciate it. More than he’ll ever know. And more than she’ll ever freely admit. Though, she doesn’t want to delve deeper into that… for now.

She shifted from her position and sat suddenly beside him, giggling when he suddenly stiffened at their closeness.

“We both know you won’t do that.” She said, nudging his shoulder with her own.

“How sure are you?” Zoro quirked an eyebrow at her.

“I just know,” Nami smiled dazzlingly at him. He might be brutish in his ways, but he definitely always makes sure she’s safe. Just like their captain.

“Hmph…” was the only answer she got as he folded his arms across his chest and refused to look at her.

She laughed again. “Alright you’re no fun,” she snickered, poking at his still reddened cheek. She got a growl from her ministration. She then moved to stand up to adjust the sail.

Zoro rubbed a hand on his face. Nami always have the ability to draw a lot of emotions from him and it always left him feeling drained. And sometimes, just like now, embarrassed.

“Ready the paddles Zoro, we are heading back.”  

He grunted an affirmative and watched her adjust the sail again. He stood up to help her. The sooner they arrive at the port; the sooner he can get his free drinks.

Though it means being in the company of the wicked witch for the rest of the day. Which can be both a good and bad thing for him.

He grabbed at the rope in her hands, nodding at her. The wind was blowing strong and he doubts if she can man the sail with that scrawny arms of hers. She beamed at him and gave him instructions on how to turn the small vessel around.

The moment he finished tying the ropes, he turned to her. “Nami,” he called to her. “What are you really trying to achieve? You’re not the type to waste time just like this and not gain anything.”

Nami gazed at his face. Zoro sometimes amazes her with how well he knows her.

He was staring at her seriously, brows furrowed in an attempt to figure out her intentions. She exhaled and stared back at the seemingly endless blue sea.

“I just want to feel it again Zoro,” she responded in a pensive manner. “I want to feel what it’s like to sail in a boat like this and not a ship.” She looked straight in his eye. “Just like before… when we first began sailing.”

That hit home.

And he felt it. That feeling from long ago. The excitement of setting sail in just a small boat to chase your dreams that seems out of reach. The thrill of cruising toward unknown islands not knowing what’ll happen or what to expect.

Just the pure enjoyment of searching for nothing and everything while gaining new nakamas, new experiences and new goals to achieve and protect. Just the pure pleasure of diving headfirst into adventure.

Just sailing. As Nami had put it.

This is what she must be aiming to feel by arbitrarily getting in this boat and crazily drifting into the middle of the sea with him in tow.

She wanted to remember.

She wanted to bask at the feeling of remembering the beginning… what she, him and Luffy started.

His eye traveled to her face. She was smiling the same way the 18-year old, short-orange haired girl from years ago did as she set sail with them for the first time after their captain convinced her to navigate for them.

That witch with the special talent to predict the weather.

“You're right," he suddenly spoke out.

Nami turned to face him, surprised.

It was the swordsman turn to smile at her and a brief image of a young Zoro flashed in her mind.

"We're missing a barrel of apples."

And the navigator’s eyes widened at that. A smile appeared on her face again, this time, brighter than the afternoon sun, warmer.

"And an idiot captain." They both said at the same time.