#there was one she sent where like sanji was holding zoros body and was like

[zorobignaturals]

My sanji coworker doesn't ship zoro and sanji but she sends angst pictures of them to the work server and is like "me and Alex on bar right now making Frappuccinos"

[iloveaustinelvisandmannymore]

hii i saw your request were open for zoro so i was wondering if you could write something with the hidden injury trope and he takes care of her when she collapse at one point tysm !! (ignore if you dont feel inspired or comfortable ofc)

( So quickly, an A/n: I decided to continue the Stay by Me storyline with this one, and the events of the show will be stretched a little bit. Spoilers!)

A lot has happened since you've been found out. You met the rest of the 'crew'. Luffy, the ever-go-lucky captain, immediately pulled you into a hug and welcomed you to his crew. Nami, the only other girl, had a slightly distrustful expression; muttering a small hello, she crossed her arms and continued to watch you as Usopp introduced himself and already began to tell his many stories.

Zoro hadn't left your side, wherever you were, he was there, watching. You would have thought it would freak you out, but if anything, you felt safe, like you didn't have to look over your shoulder anymore. Life was good. Until it wasn't.

You were attacked by a ship of Marines who was led by Luffy's grandfather, almost got lost in the fog you sought cover from, and were able to get out by your captain's nose and his love of food that you all found a restaurant ship where you would meet your future crew mate and Zoro's least favorite person. The mighty Dracule Mihawk was sent there by Luffy's grandfather, and Zoro challenged him to the death. He agreed.

Nami tried to reason with him, but he wouldn't listen, even to you. You tried, but when his callous hand caressed your cheek, his deep brown eyes staring into yours, and the soft tone in which he spoke, saying that he was gonna win, that he'd never leave you unprotected, you believed him.

What a fool.

Everything happens so fast. Zoro was injured in a duel with Mihawk; on the edge of death, Nami left with a pirate crew of fishmen and the map of the grand line. Zoro woke up, and you all set sail to find Nami, along with Sanji. You learned about her past and helped her defeat the dreaded Arlong. During the fight with Arlong, you become injured, and nobody knew, You had more important matters than the burning pain of shards of glass stuck in your side.

It wasn't till after the fight you passed out from the pain.

The gentle rocking of the ship was the first thing you felt as you gained consciousness. The feeling of someone's hand holding yours tightened as your eyes slowly opened. "Zoro..?" You managed to coak out, turning to look at the man in question. "Why didn't you say anything..?" Zoro said after a minute of not saying anything, his brown eyes snapping up to look at your face.

You gulped, "I didn't think it was important." Your eyes plead for him not to be mean. "Not important? Not fucking important!?" Zoro growled, standing up from the chair he sat on and letting go of your hand. "It's important to me! You're important to me.." He lowered his voice at the last part, no longer sounding angry but simply hurt. "Zoro," you grunted as he helped you sit up in bed, "I'm sorry, I should have said something. I was just worried about everyone else. I'll tell you next time. I promise." You held up your pinky and smiled at the tired chuckle that left the green-headed swordsman. Zoro locked his pinky around yours.

Using your pinky, he flong you into his body, your soft, plump stomach hitting against his abs, and his plush lips smashed against yours, stealing your breath away.

When you both parted, he whispered against your lips, "You're my woman. I'm your man. From now on." You couldn't be happier.

@xxmaddhatter39xx

[alexa-fika]

Zoro and Sanji accidentally becoming parents to a little girl. Maybe they saved or protected her during a fight. She's a little sassy especially when Zoro kinda snaps at her but she's just standing up for herself. Other than that she's a complete sweet heart?? Only of you're okay with it!!!

Dual Training ( Sanji x gn!child!reader x Zoro)

A/N Reader heres is a little older, close to teen but not quite I tgink this is a flop, I din’t know where to go with jt so it kinda ended up pretty weak and im pretty sure this is not at all what you had in mind but I couldn’t come up with anything, im sorry Anon 😭 I have fail you

Reader here is replaced by Dokucha which stands for reader in japanese

Dividers by @/saradika

They frown, ducking to avoid the kick sent their way, swinging their bo staff Sanji’s way, forcing him to retreat. Just as he did, Dokucha turned to block Zoro’s attack, slowly sliding their staff up the sword until they were able to push him off; forgetting about the blond behind them, they charged towards the swordsman, trying to deliver a hit in his upper body, only to let out a groan as the attack was stopped by Sanji

“Okay, Okay, I give!” They exclaimed as Sanji kicked away their bo staff, Zoro having taken the opportunity to hold them at knifepoint, the sword inches away from their neck

“You’re too slow in your attacks,” Zoro commented, sheathing his sword

“My speed is not the problem.”

“Then what would you say is?” Sanji questioned, handing them their staff

“That you guys are absolute tanks!” they exclaimed

“You’re just weak,” Zoro quipped back, rolling his eyes

“And you’re just a jerk, but you don’t hear me saying that, do you?” The snapped back

The swordsman sends them a glare but doesn’t reply, opting to lie down

“Mon amour, we want you to strengthen your reflexes; that’s why we have you spare both of us at once,” Sanji explains

“Why both at the same time? Can’t even beat one of you, so why have both of you come at me at once?” The child whined

“Because your fighting style mixes both the use of weapons and the use of the body to fight," Zoro muttered, opening his eyes to glance at them

"Oh."

Sanji chuckles at their reaction, lighting a cigarette and blowing and exhaling a cloud of smoke

“I don’t use weapons nor my hands to fight for that matter, so I can only help you improve your fighting with your lower body; musclehead over here is a savage and knows about fighting with brawn and no brain and can help you work your staff.”

He lets out a scoff at that

“Say’s the one who fights like a mule, kicking his way out of everything.”

They sighed as, once again, the bickering resumed between the two

“Knock it off,” they call, standing in between them breaking the fight off as they glared at each other

“Thank you”

“For what?”

“For always looking out for me and helping me become stronger,” they exclaim, sending them a grateful smile

“It’s no problem, mon/ma chéri”

Zoro just let out a grunt at their proclamation, at which they grinned, knowing the greenhead struggled with expressing himself verbally, easily understanding the underlying meaning of his actions

Im sorry yall, but I have an idea for the next one, I think it’s gonna be a cook

Taglist:

@imaginarydreams

@amethystviolin

@h0n3y-l3m0n05

[justanothersanjilover]

One Piece Modern Gym Au Wip (Part 12)

“What should I wear? A casual shirt…or something formal…or…”

“Zoro, honey,” Nami went over to cup his face so she’d finally get his attention - after he rambled on about clothes for the last twenty minutes. “I don't think he gives a fuck what you wear. Just wear what feels comfortable. You aren't going in a restaurant, you meet him at home.”

“I know…I…” Zoro grabbed Nami's wrist, seemingly holding onto them for dear life. “I can’t remember a time I was that nervous.”

“Well, I don't think you have to be.”

“But it’s Sanji!” Zoro closed his eyes.

“I know and that's why you don't have to be nervous! He sees you all sweaty and gross almost every single day! You don't have to impress him, dumbass!”

She squished his cheeks a bit before letting got and walking back to her desk. Zoro stood there like he didn't know what to do or say.

“Look, if you want I can come over to yours and help you pick an outfit and do your hair,” she offered. “Sounds good?”

Zoro nodded furiously and went in for a tight hug.

“Fuck,” he mumbled against her hair. “Thank you! Thank you!”

“Don’t mention it.” Laughing she patted his back.

~ a few days later ~

Nami stood in front of Zoro’s wardrobe and looked through his clothes. She searched for a specific shirt Sanji had said he liked and found it after a few moments. It was black pants with huge pockets on the side of the leg and a simple white shirt, short sleeves and three buttons in the front. It actually looked really good on him - made his muscles pop out by the way it stretched over his body. Nami smirked to herself as Zoro walked back into the room after changing.

“Sit down and let me do your hair.”

Zoro obeyed within a blink and Nami styled his hair with some quick moves and a bit of hair wax. She combed it back to give him that “mafia boss style” she always had loved to see on him.

“Sanji is going to love this!” Nami smiled as she watched Zoro taking a closer look of himself in the mirror.

“You think? I look like we both are going on a date,” Zoro mumbled, throwing a glance over his shoulder.

“Nope, if we would go on a date you’d wear that expensive as shit suit hanging in your wardrobe and catching dust!”

Zoro made a face like he was in physical pain by the sheer mention of the suit.

“You, my good Sir, look perfect for going to Sanji’s.”

Zoro took another deep breath and nodded. Then he gestured for the door and Nami walked out of his bedroom.

“Is it even a date? Or just two friends hanging out?” Nami wanted to know, looking Zoro up and down for a last time.

“I don't know…we didn't specify it.”

“Either way, you look good. So don't worry! And if it gets weird, just crack one of your stupid jokes.”

They both laughed, knowing how much Sanji hated Zoro’s stupid jokes and how much he actually loved them. He chuckled because if he’d laugh, he would spill his very, not well-kept secret.

The ride to Sanji’s place was calm in the beginning. Zoro drove Nami home so he had to make sure not to go fast with his motorcycle. She didn't like it when he sped through the streets. But once she was off and the spare helmet was placed back in the tail bag, Zoro practically flew through the streets. He loved the speed and the adrenaline pulsing through his body and it was a good way to calm his racing mind. He got his navigation on so he wouldn't get lost on the way but actually managed to take a wrong turn twice.

Finally standing in front of the house complex for wich Sanji texted him the location, he checked again if he was at the right place. He was. Zoro blinked up to the last floor as he pressed some buttons on his phone.

“You lost?”

“Nami…do you know where Sanji lives?”

“No? He send you the address! I swear to all that's good, Zoro! Don't tell me you actually got lost! I put the easiest route into the navigator!”

Zoro pulled the phone from his ear, snapped a pic, and sent it to Nami.

“Hold on, someone…holly fuck! That's...that…”

“Yeah, it’s just the most expensive house complex in the whole town!”

Zoro heard Nami starting to babble on about that Sanji must be rich and that she’ll lower his income. Knowing she soon would go over to planning how to get some of the money Sanji - supposedly - had, Zoro hung up and put his phone back in his pocket.

He walked over to see where Sanji lived but didn't find Black on the list of names by the door. Raising a eyebrow he did see just the number three on the last floor. Would fit Sanji even if he didn't know why he would put a number instead of his name.

He pushed the button beside the number and waited.

“Yeah?” Sanji’s voice came through the intercom.

“Didn’t know you're rich, Curly,” Zoro said simply.

“Just…shut up and come up, mosshead!”

Zoro heard a buzzing and pushed the door open. He walked in and went over to the elevator. The ride to the seventh floor was a short one. What was interesting was the fact that the elevator door opened not to a corridor, but to what seemed to be Sanji’s living room.

“Damn, Curly! Never thought you’d live in a penthouse!”

prev/next

First Part

[salty-says]

Zosan child pt.2

Pt. 3 def gonna be full on family fluff.

“Daddy?!”

Sanji’s jaw dropped and he froze.

“Oh Daddy I was so scared!” Sora threw her arms around Sanji’s neck and cried into his neck.

Sanji’s arms wrapped around her small frame mindlessly and hold her close, rubbing her back. Sanji looked to Zoro looking for any help in the situation. Zoro only mirrored Sanji’s astonishment and confusion.

The child pulled back and looked at her father a little concerned, “Daddy are you okay?” Sora looked over to where Sanji was looking and her eyes focused on Zoro. “Papa?” She squirmed out of Sanji’s arms and ran over to Zoro hugging his legs, “Papa you’re here too!”

Zoro stumbled back, Sora clinging onto his right leg. “Eh?!” He started shaking his leg trying to pry Sora off but she only started to squeal and giggle holding onto him more.

“Papa! Papa!” She giggled and hugged his leg.

Zoro grabbed her off of his leg and held her on his hip, “I ain’t your papa.”

Sora giggled and hugged his neck, “You’re always so funny papa!”

Zoro’s body warmed at her affection. At this point Sanji stood and went over to the two. “Where’d you come from little one?” Sanji asked.

Sora looked over at Sanji her arms still around Zoro, “Well, I was just eating snacks with you and Papa and I got really tired. Papa and you tucked me in bed and then I saw a bright light and I was suddenly in the middle of the street. I was really scared but when I saw you I felt better.”

“So…we’re your parents?” Zoro asked her blatantly while Sanji kicked him softly.

Sora cocked her head at him, “Of course you are Papa!”

“Huh…”

“Papa are you okay? I want..I want to go home. This place doesn’t look like the All Blue.”

Sanji gasped, “All Blue?”

Sora looked back over at him, “Well of course, you discovered it Daddy. And you own the best restaurant ever there! You make me and Papa the yummiest food!”

Sanji stepped back and leaned against the wall a hand over his mouth. “It exists.” He mumbled under his hand, tears pricking his eyes.

“Oi, Curly.”

“Daddy?” Sora unwrapped her arms from Zoro and motioned that she wanted to be put down and Zoro obliged. Once her feet were on the ground she ran over to Sanji. “Daddy don’t cry!”

Sanji ran a hand through his hair trying to calm himself down. And Sora tried to pry his arms open for her to sit in his lap. Sanji looked at her, so many emotions running through his head.

He looked at her and smiled, “I’m sorry little one, but I’m not your father. I mean it. I didn’t even know the All Blue existed until you told me. Zoro and I just found you in the street a little bit ago. But you are named after my mother and have an odd resemblance to us.”

“What do you mean?” She asked, her voice wavered a bit.

“I don’t mean to make you cry sweetheart. I would never want to hurt you.” Sanji brushed her hair softly, “But I’m telling the truth. I may look like your daddy, but I am not, I’m merely a cook on a pirate crew.”

Sora paused and looked at Sanji perplexed. She sat and thought for a bit trying to piece some things together. “Well I did think it was a little weird that your hair was shorter. And that Papa’s left eye was still there and didn’t have a scar…”

Zoro’s eyes widened and he touched his left eye making sure it was still there. Sora continued.

“I know you two used to be on the Strawhats! But you said that ever since Uncle Luffy became King you and papa moved to the All Blue and became husbands. But since you can’t have kids some guy with Devil fruit abilities was able to create me! You own a restaurant and Papa is the world’s greatest swordsman and he sometimes has to go away but he always comes back!”

Sanji and Zoro paused not knowing what to do with this new information. This child, their child?was basically telling them their entire futures.

“Something must have happened while I was sleeping that made me get sent back here to when you guys were younger.” Sora figured.

Sanji nodded slowly and let out the breath he was holding. “I see….then we must find a way to get you back home.”

Sora nodded. “I don’t feel that far away though. My dad’s are right her with me!” Sora hugged Sanji’s neck.

Sanji’s heart melted and he hugged her back. Processing the thought that Zoro and him had a child together, nonetheless got married made his brain short circuit. His mind drifted to how awful it would be to marry the stupid moss head. But if it meant that he was happy and had an amazing daughter, it didn’t bother him all that much for right now.

Sanji stood up with Sora in his arms and walked over to Zoro. “We should send you back to your time. But in order to do that we must find that man that sent you here.”

“You saw the man that sent me here?” Sora asked.

Zoro made his voice known, “Yeah, some weirdo said he knew he couldn’t defeat us but could hinder us and then a big white light like the one you mentioned earlier appeared and you showed up.”

“Oh..” Sora nodded. “Devil fruit users are truly incredible if they have the power to do that! I’ve always wanted to meet the younger versions of you guys and go on one of their adventures. I guess I can now.” She squealed in delight hugging Sanji tighter.

Sanji’s heart was almost about to explode at her affection. To think he had made it to the All Blue and found a loving family took a weight off his shoulders he didn’t even know he had. “Well my beautiful daughter, we must get ourselves a place to stay for the night so we can figure this out in the morning. I’m sure you exhausted.”

As if on cue Sora yawned and nodded leaning her head against Sanji’s shoulder. Sanji started walking towards the inn while Zoro just stayed in place. Sanji tuned to him, “C’mon Mossy, I think she would want both of her dads there.”

Zoro flushed and walked over to join them, “I hope this brat isn’t as annoying as you.”

Sora smiled and fell into a gentle rest as Sanji carried her down the street. Even though he wasn’t the dad she knew, he was still her dad and she felt safe in his arms.

[turtletaubwrites]

For The Sake Of Justice ~ Part 22

Pairings: Zoro x Fem!Reader, Sanji x Fem!Reader, Robin x Fem!Reader, Sanji X Robin

This is part 22 of the Series 'We've All Got Needs,' linked below:

Word Count: 5882

We've All Got Needs Masterlist

Ao3 Link (Ch. 12 of We've All Got Needs cont.)

!!SPOILER WARNING!! Spoilers for the anime for the Water 7/Enies Lobby arc (through episode 263).

Summary: You and Sanji fight your way through the sea train, finding friends and foes. As you hunt for Robin, you learn more about her past, and her enemies.

Rating/Warnings: AFAB!Reader, She/Her Pronouns for Reader, 18+ Only, MDNI, Reader-Insert, Polyamory, Pet Names, Swearing, Cigarettes, They're Gross, Don't Smoke, Kissing, ANGST, Relationship Drama, Emotional Hurt/No Comfort, Blood, Enemy Being Drugged, Death of an unnamed enemy character, Violence

A/N: Alright y'all! this is all angst and plot, no smut here. But I'll post another smut scene next, so I hope you can make it through. Also, I'm sorry, but I had to include one of the dumbest battles in the anime, but only because we get to see Sanji being oh so sexy. I tried to make it less ridiculous, lol. I hope you enjoy this part!

Extra A/N: Also, I apologize for the length, I wanted to get us through the train in one go before we head to Enies Lobby 🌊🚂

A moment of acceptance. The crashing waves might take you. Everything could be over.

The moment passed in a frantic scrambling, clinging to the railing of the last train car. Wrapping your elbows around the thin metal, sea water splashed up wildly, trying to drag you into its hungry depths. 

Sanji slipped over the railing onto the small deck, and pulled you over, kissing you hard as soon as you were steady on your feet. 

The near death and impending violence made your bodies desperate. You drank the salt water from each other’s skin as your heart rates lowered, only slightly. 

Sanji pulled back first, cradling your head in his cold hands.

“Stay behind me, Angel.”

You didn’t argue as he laid a gentle kiss on your forehead.

The door opened outward, a uniformed man stepping out to check on the weather. 

Sanji reacted, landing a kick that sent the man flying.

Into the well lit car filled with government officers.

You kept behind your cook as he lit his cigarette, stepping inside so the rain wouldn’t keep it from lighting. 

The cool weight of your tonfa in your hands felt useless at the sight of so many guns trained on Sanji. The officers didn’t seem to care about you as they started addressing him. 

“Hey, hold it. Where do you think you’re going?”

“Did you see that kick? He’s not some run of the mill civilian.”

Sanji took a drag off his cigarette, and you wanted to throttle him for his calm taunt. 

“Oh, come on. If you keep saying things like that, I’ll blush.”

The officers started to call for someone to alert CP9, but pride got in their way. The strongest declared his prowess, and you pressed against the wall as they faced off. 

Sanji easily kept his distance, avoiding every attack while you and the group of officers watched. 

“This is a waste of time.”

Sanji leapt toward the ceiling before bringing his foot straight down on the would-be best fighter, instantly knocking him out. 

Chaos followed, each of the officers jumping in to fight, a couple racing toward the door. 

You readied your weapons, looking for a way to help, but it was pointless.

He didn’t need your help. 

Sanji took care of every attacker, until you jumped in while his back was turned. 

I can do this.

A single officer was overpowering you, you couldn’t land a hit on him. 

Fuck, I need to be stronger than this!

As he backed you into a corner, you saw Sanji making his way through the few enemies in his path, his eyes trained on your embarrassing fight. 

I can’t be a distraction for him. 

The tall officer landed a punch to your side, but as he pulled back for another, you held your tonfa out to block, calling out your attack. 

“Daydream Thorns!”

He slammed against your tonfa, swearing as he scraped bloody lines against the metal thorns. 

“You’ll pay for-”

His eyes went wide as he staggered toward you, and you ducked out of the way as he fell against the wall. 

Sanji was leaning over you, brows tensed.

“Sanji!”

Turning with a spinning kick, Sanji took care of one of the officers he’d ignored to come to your side. You leaned around him, and a thrill of pride coursed through you as you hit another. 

“Blackout Dart!”

The officer went down as the Sanji mopped up the rest.

His hands were on you, running down your face, your arms, your sides. You held in a wince at the soreness on your ribs. 

“Mon coeur, please stay down, let me protect you.”

The urge to be angry was stifled by the fear in his eyes, and the knowledge that you weren't ready to take on so many foes at once. But hiding was not an option. You had to fight. 

I have to fight for her. 

“Sanji, you’ll protect me better by fighting the stronger guards. Please trust me. I promise I’ll call for you if I need help.”

Sanji’s throat bobbed as he swallowed, and he looked almost sick as he held your hands. 

With another kiss to your forehead, he hugged you to him. 

“Your love is so beautiful. You two have a deep special, love, don’t you?”

Sanji twisted around to shield you from those slurred words, but you laughed, pulling yourself away from him to look at your victim. 

The officer’s eyes were heavy lidded, a slow smile pulling at his lips as he swayed on the floor against the wall. 

“Hold on-”

“It’s okay,” you said as you knelt before the man, holding your arm out to stop Sanji’s movement. 

“I hit him with the Daydream Tonfa. He should be feeling pretty friendly right now, isn’t that right?”

The man laughed, nodding at your sweet tone.

“You’re veeery pretty.”

Sanji pulled you back as the man reached slowly toward your face.

“Thank you, so are you.”

Giggles filled the car from your drugged victim, and you couldn’t keep a proud laugh from escaping your lips. 

“Come on, Angel, we need to keep moving.”

“Hold on, he might be able to help us.”

You donned a saccharine smile as you leaned back toward the officer.

“You’ve been very nice, do you think you can help me?”

“Oh yeah, I’m soo good at helping.” 

He was running his fingers up and down his thighs, humming as he stared open mouthed at your face. 

“We’re looking for our friends.”

~

“That was very impressive, darling. Let’s hope he was exaggerating the strength of the foes in between us and Robin. And he said we'll find the prisoners in the next car.”

“I wonder how Usopp ended up here.”

Sanji didn’t reply as he prepared to open the next car, locking eyes with you before opening the door. 

Sanji took care of the officers, while you searched the car. You found cases full of masks and costumes like they’d been wearing on the island, an array of transponder snails, and two wiggling forms wrapped and tied with rope. 

“Usopp!”

You ran to him, avoiding the fight as you knelt beside him, already pulling at his binds. Sanji finished the fight, and you felt his presence as he walked up beside you. 

“Y/N, Sanji! You didn’t hijack the train just to rescue me, did you?”

“We were-”

Sanji cut you off as he started to light a cigarette. 

“I don’t even know what you’re doing here. What’s your name again?”

“Are you kidding me? You jerk," Usopp huffed.

You knew Sanji wanted to save Usopp as much as you did, and you shook your head at his lie, still pulling at the ropes. Sanji promised you that you would save Usopp and Robin, and you didn’t have the energy to call him on his bullshit.

The other prisoner cleared his throat, and you took in his blue pompadour, sunglasses, and what looked to be a metal nose. 

 “Let me guess. These are some of your pirate friends, aren’t they?”

The three of you answered at once.

“Yes.”

“Kind of.”

“Ex friends. The question is, who are you,” Sanji asked as he looked over the transponder snails.

“I’m the ship dismantler, and leader of the Franky family, Franky.”

Both you and Usopp gasped as Sanji’s foot collided with Franky’s face.

“So you’re the bastard who beat up Usopp, huh? He may be dead to me now, but he was part of our crew back then. How many pieces do you want me to cut you into?”

Usopp crawled free from the ropes you had pulled away, and put himself between Sanji and the target of his ire. You stood, resting your palm on Sanji’s shoulder as you watched his face snarl with barely contained rage. 

“Wait, Sanji, it’s not like that now. A lot has changed since then!”

Usopp’s pleas didn’t hold as strong while Franky grumbled threats behind him. 

“Seriously, Sanji. Franky’s a good guy. He saved the Merry, at least for a while.”

Heat crept up your throat as Usopp’s face fell, the thought of the Merry making his lip quiver. 

“Come on, kid, this isn’t the time to mope. Now untie me, blondie!”

“I don’t mind leaving you tied up like that for the rest of your life,” Sanji threatened, leaning over the man. 

Usopp started yelling until the three boys were impossible to understand.

“We need to find Robin!”

Your command silenced the three men, and you got to work on releasing Franky. 

“Did they take your pants,” you asked as you moved your hands away, letting him remove the ropes from his lower body. 

“Nah, girlie, this is just my style.”

You shook your head at his big smile, not fighting as Sanji pulled you away from the large man in the tiny speedo. 

~

The rain was endless as you huddled with Sanji on the roof. Franky and Usopp were close by as Sanji called Nami on the stolen transponder snail. 

Her voice was a miracle, especially when she said the rest of the crew were on their way, following on a separate train, along with some new allies. 

Hope warmed your soaked skin, then her next words made your breath hitch.

“I need to tell you guys why Robin’s doing all this, why she’s with CP9.”

Sanji laced his fingers through yours as Nami shared all they’d learned. 

All that you had already believed.

She would never betray us. She sacrificed herself to protect us, to keep her enemies from hurting us. 

CP9 had threatened to send in a Buster Call, a massive military attack that would annihilate everyone within range. And Robin agreed to go with them on the promise that you would go free. That her crew wouldn’t be touched.

Your tears were lost in the storm as you stared into Sanji’s eyes, seeing your determination reflected there. 

Luffy got on the line, and you were silent, frozen with the need to save her. Sanji spoke for you. 

“Nami just told us everything.”

“I see, well, you know what’s next.”

The confidence in your captain’s voice was a balm, a small hopeful smile touched your lips. 

Then his next words sent ice through your veins.

“Go ahead. Give ‘em hell, Sanji.”

Your cook’s jaw clenched as he nodded. You were filled with equal parts gratitude and fear. You didn’t want to wait to help Robin, but from what Nami had said of CP9, even Sanji wouldn’t be a match for them alone, or with someone as weak as you. 

Zoro’s voice joined, getting clearer as he must have stepped toward the transponder snail, but somehow still feeling distant. So far from you now that an empty ache of fear hit your gut.

“Hold on, he’ll die if he fights them now. If he wants to stand a chance, he’s gotta wait for us. Hey cook, can you hear me? Some of the guys on that train are really tough. You shouldn’t-”

“Zoro,” Luffy’s voice interrupted. “It’s fine. If it was you, would you wait? If you were on that train instead of him, and I told you Robin sacrificed herself to protect us, would you sit there and do nothing? It’s no use trying to stop him.”

You wished that you could have seen Zoro’s face, but his silence was enough. Sanji’s face lit up in a manic smile.

“Read me like a book. But thanks, moss head. I never knew you cared about me so much.”

Zoro’s voice came loud, as if he was yelling directly into the poor snail.

“I don’t fucking care about you, dumbass cook! If you let Needy get hurt I will slice every piece of skin off your body, I’ll-”

“Zoro, I-”

Desperation filled his voice when he heard yours.

“Needy, fuck. Needy, please.”

Sanji handed you the transponder snail, giving you a little space while you clung to your swordsman’s voice. 

“I’m here, Zoro.”

“Please, Needy, I’m so sorry. I should have listened to you. I should have-”

“It’s okay, babe. I…”

You choked on the almost words. You wanted to say them now, you needed to tell him. You needed him to know. 

But those words felt too much like goodbye.

I might never see him again.

You were rocking slightly now, heavy tears still mixing with the rain and the angry spray of the ocean. 

“Please don’t fight, Needy. Please stay safe. I’m coming for you, okay? I need you to stay safe for me, please.”

“I’ll be careful.” 

You knew the words were quiet, but you couldn't speak up, couldn’t speak past the painful lump in your throat. 

“Needy, I…”

Clenching your eyes shut against the weight of it all, you gasped softly as Sanji touched your arm. He mouthed to you that it was time to go, and you nodded as Zoro reacted to your gasp.

“Are you okay, Needy? What’s happening?”

“We’re okay, Zoro. I’m okay.”

“Fuck… Please don’t go. Please wait for me to find you.”

Covering your mouth as you let out a tiny sob, you steeled yourself. 

“I have to go, Zoro. I promise I’ll be careful.”

“I’ll find you, Needy. No matter what.”

“See you…”

You cut the line, and let Sanji pull you into a hug. He rocked you back and forth a few times, kissing your temple before helping you to your feet. 

Usopp’s soft voice brought you into the moment. 

“It’s crazy how much stuff has happened since I left. It doesn’t feel real.”

“Robin’s in a similar boat,” Sanji replied, bringing all eyes to him. “She doesn’t know about anything that happened with you or the Merry. But while we were busy fighting amongst ourselves, Robin was giving herself up to the world government to protect us. And that includes you, Usopp.”

Franky brought out a useless tissue that got soaked in the rain while he gave a few loud sobs. 

“Oh man, that is such a sad story!”

“Why are you crying,” Sanji asked, frowning at the man. 

You cut in now, shaking off your own tears as you watched Franky. 

“We need to go.”

“No. I’m not coming,” Usopp muttered, catching your breath. “This doesn’t have anything to do with me anymore. You’re about to make yourselves enemies of the World Government. I don’t want any part of it. I can’t pretend nothing happened when the others get here. I still feel bad for Robin. But I’m sorry, it’s not my job to save her anymore. I am not a part of Luffy’s crew.”

Nausea poured through you as you watched your friend walk away again, the rain covering the sounds of his steps on the roof of the train. Franky leaned toward him, yelling over the storm. 

“There’s no place to go. Come on, you guys can talk this over, bro!”

“Forget it,” Sanji’s cold voice commanded. “Just leave him.”

“You guys are stubborn as hell,” Franky complained, as you followed Sanji forward. Leaving your old crewmate behind. 

You’d made it over another car before you heard someone behind you. 

“Hello there! Your friend told me everything. I hear you’re here to rescue a certain mademoiselle. I’ve come to lend my aid. I am Sniper King!”

Usopp had a cloak wrapped around his shoulders, and one of the masks from inside, the yellow painted wood covering most of his face. 

You could still see his bandages, his overalls, his shoes. You wanted to hug him, but kept your feet planted.

“What the hell is he doing,” Franky wondered aloud, before Sanji leaned in with a hoarse whisper.

“Come on, just humor the poor guy. He has too much pride to show his face to the crew, but he still wants to rescue his friend.”

With a smile, you waved a hand to him.

“Thank you, Sniper King, let’s go!”

~

The group discussed plans as you tried not to slip off the train. Usopp didn't let up on his story that he was a stranger, and if the situation hadn’t been so intense, you would have laughed at how cute he was. 

Sanji’s plan led you back to the last of the seven cars, and you waited on the roof while the rest of the group opened the door to taunt the soldiers and officers. 

Even over the storm, you started to hear the shouts of the officers calling for backup, moving down toward the back of the train. Leaning over the side, you saw them pressing against the door, keeping the soldiers from joining them on the small deck. 

Scrambling after them, you leapt across from roof to roof until Franky and Usopp detached the two back cars, laughing as you left the large group of enemies stranded in the ocean. 

“Only five cars left,” Sanji declared as you walked through the fifth, it’s group of soldiers and officers beaten and bleeding on the floor. 

“The guy I poisoned said the next car just has the kitchen and the chef in it, hopefully he’s not a chef like you.”

“There are no chefs like me, mon amour,” Sanji teased with a wink.

“As a mighty warrior of Sniper Island, I have to wonder if this is a good time for flirting.”

Snorting at Usopp’s scolding, you stayed back as the three of them lined up, kicking in the door to the kitchen. 

“Hello, hello, my name is Mad Wanze! Can I prepare some ramen for you?”

The yells and frantic movements of the white haired cook made you pause. Coupled with his bare chest revealed under his jacket, and the filthy kitchen, the picture was jarring. 

A quick glance at Sanji’s narrowed eyes confirmed his disapproval. 

Wanze didn’t wait, filling a bowl with plain looking ramen. Before shoving it toward you, he leaned over the bowl, and you cringed as a clear line of snot dripped from his nose into the bowl. 

“Sorry, we’ve got places to be. You’ll have to enjoy that nose ramen on your own.”

The cook dropped the bowl on the counter before standing in Sanji’s way.

“Hold it! If you want to go to the next car, you’ll have to go through me first.”

“You think you can stop us,” Sanji questioned, clear disgust in his voice. 

“That’s right! You can’t get past me unless you defeat my ramen kenpo!”

“What the fuck,” you muttered as the manic cook skipped back and forth across the room, taunting everyone. 

You gaped as Franky detached his fucking hand, and used his arm like a gun. None of his shots hit the wild man, and Sanji stepped forward. 

“I’ll take care of this fool. Just stand back.”

Sanji flew forward, and your jaw fell open as his kick didn’t land. 

How did this fucking creep avoid his kick?

Sanji turned back, looking over the short man’s mop of hair. 

“Angel, you stay here and stay back. You two, go on ahead. We’ll meet up with you later. Our first priority is to rescue Robin.”

Wanze yelled as Usopp and Franky bypassed him, Sanji blocking his attacks. 

His attacks with fucking noodles.

In your travels on the Grand Line you had seen so many unbelievable and crazy things. Things that didn’t seem possible, people with powers that made your brain hurt when you thought about them for too long. 

But this gross man flinging noodles around like weapons was the stupidest fucking thing you’d ever seen. 

Especially since he actually seemed to be a good fighter.

The man had wrapped himself in noodles now, and you pinched yourself to make sure you hadn’t been knocked out into a ridiculous dream. 

Sanji had landed some good kicks, but the noodles were making it hard for him to get a decent hit in, and he was losing his footing now as he got stuck in that web of sticky strands. 

You let out a gasp as the man threw Sanji onto the counter, shattering plates and sending silverware and pots clattering to the floor. 

You wanted to help, but knew you’d never be able to get close enough for your Thorns, and didn’t want to risk hitting Sanji with a Dart. 

“How dare you waste all this food! I’m going to make you eat every last bite.”

Sanji got slammed into the floor again, then tossed across the room to land beside you, muttering to himself. 

Wanze cackled, bouncing back and forth as he continued to rant. 

“You can’t get through, and I’ve already figured out your attacks. Since all you do is kick, I just have to take out your legs, and you’ll be finished. Then I’ll have time for dessert with your little friend.”

The man leered at you, splotchy face dripping with snot and drool, and you felt bile move up your throat. 

He wasted no more time then as he attacked Sanji full force, but this time his assault of noodles slowed down, going thin as you saw them flying into the air to land on a large platter. 

You couldn't help but laugh as Sanji stood, leaving a platter of noodles on the counter as he twirled large kitchen knives in his hands. 

Sanji stood calmly, effortlessly spinning the knives in his hands and in the air as he taunted. Your breath caught in your throat as you watched him wield those blades with such skill. 

In all the chaos and fear of the moment, you had to shake yourself from your gut reaction. 

He looks so fucking hot.

“A chef must fight without using his hands or knives, those are sacred. It’s always been my policy not to use them in battle. But since we’re in a kitchen, and you’re using food as a weapon, that changes things a bit, doesn't it?”

“Trying to look cool, you insolent little punk? An amateur like you shouldn’t even touch my kitchen knives, you hear me?”

“I apologize for my insolence,” Sanji rasped, his voice dark as you clutched your hands together. “But I’m going to show you how a real chef handles his kitchen knives.”

Shivers crawled up your skin as you let yourself enjoy the show. Your lover danced around his enemy, humiliating him as he kicked and sliced. He was mesmerizing, and made quick work of the ridiculous cook. 

Sanji walked to you when he’d left the man bleeding on the floor, admiring the blades before setting them on the counter. 

“For a pathetic excuse for a chef, he takes great care of his kitchen knives.”

You grinned, fighting the urge to jump on him as he led you to the next car. 

I wonder what Zoro would think if he saw how Sanji fought with blades. 

That thought was lovely for a moment, before you remembered Zoro’s pleading voice begging you not to fight. 

You were back in the moment now, fear and determination pulsing through you. 

“You won’t get past me!”

You barely ducked out of the way in time as Wanze charged forward to block the path. 

Sanji spun, kicking the screaming man through the door. He flew across, slamming into the opposite door that opened, revealing the four members of CP9 you’d seen boarding the train. 

“Stay back here, Angel,” Sanji whispered as he lit a cigarette. 

Sanji walked toward your enemies, and panic coursed through you. 

We should have waited! I can’t help him. Where are Franky and Usopp?

The ceiling cracked open in front of Sanji, and when the dust cleared you saw Franky crouched on top of a bleeding man who was groaning under the weight, but there was no Usopp in sight. 

The four CP9 agents stood slowly, their gaze alone making your mouth dry. 

Sanji and Franky fucking ignored them.

“Wow, some entrance. Where the hell have you been?”

“Kicking ass, as usual,” Franky laughed at Sanji. “What about you?”

“Kicking ass,” Sanji breathed out with smoke, while Franky kicked the bleeding man toward the group of agents. 

“So it’s you, huh,” Sanji questioned, tilting his head toward the agents. “You’re the ones who kidnapped Robin?”

“Be careful,” Franky warned. “They use some pretty weird moves.”

The man in the top hat walked forward as the bleeding man sat up. He was muttering to himself about killing Franky, before he turned to look up. 

“You must be Rob Lucci. I'm the new recruit. Just give me a moment, and I’ll kill that man.”

“Your orders were to bring him in alive, it seems you’ve let your emotions get the better of you.”

You stared at the man, noticing a pigeon on his shoulder that appeared to be giving the new recruit the same cold stare. You shivered at his voice, deep and empty. 

“I’ll give you three seconds to run for your life.”

The recruit was panicked, confused, but he took too long. At the last second he bolted away, so fast you could hardly see him. Rob Lucci caught him, insulting him as he collapsed to the ground, dying, then dead. 

“Kalifa,” he called to the blonde woman. “In our official reports, state that the new recruit was too weak, and therefore deemed worthless.”

“Understood,” she affirmed coldly, and you couldn’t tell when you’d last taken a breath.

“So these are the Agents of Justice,” Sanji wondered, weight shifting on his feet as the agents moved closer.

“Can’t tell which side is evil, huh,” Franky said, shaking his head as he stretched. 

Rob Lucci stood in front of them now, and you wanted to scream for Sanji to run. But all you could do was watch through the doorway, feeling the gaze of the agents pass over you occasionally before returning to Sanji and Franky. 

“You’ve come to rescue Nico Robin? That’s a mistake. Her problem is beyond your comprehension. There are some people in this world that were born under an unlucky star. Some people are, for the sake of everyone else, just better off dead.”

Your nails were digging bloody imprints into your palm as you fought not to run forward. 

“What are you talking about?”

You could see Sanji’s fists clenched as he stared the man down. 

“What if there was a sleeping devil that could burn the entire world to the ground? And what if there was someone capable of waking that devil? Even if that someone was an eight year old girl? Don’t you think for the lives of every other living being, that girl should be put to death?”

“Get to the point,” Sanji growled, while sick heat filled your stomach, climbing up your throat. 

“This is the true story of Nico Robin’s childhood. And now she’s accumulated an entire life of crime. Her very existence is a sin, and the only good she can do for this world would be to forfeit her life-”

“Shut your fucking mouth!”

“Angel!”

Sanji grabbed you, holding you back as you snarled. Franky put his massive arm in front of you to keep you from rushing toward that man, his cold eyes assessing you calmly, as if you were nothing but an annoyance. 

Your Robin having to live like this. Feeling like her life was worthless. It made you want to scream, to tear that man’s fucking face off. 

“Angel, please, we’ll get her,” Sanji whispered in your ear as he fought to keep you still. 

“Don’t worry,” Rob Lucci continued in his almost monotone voice. “The World Goverment will kill her as they should have ages ago, but first they will torture her until they find out every thing she knows. She will probably be alive for years enduring endless agony-”

Sanji’s arms left you as he lunged forward. Franky held you back as you watched in terror while Sanji seethed. 

“That’s enough, bastard! I don’t want to hear another word out of you.”

Sanji’s foot flew toward the man’s face, but he blocked it with his arm effortlessly.

“Her death won’t come nearly as quickly as I would like,” he said, sending Sanji sliding away from him, having to catch himself from falling to the ground.

“I said wait-”

The door to the last car opened, and Robin was there, Usopp pulling at her arm and begging her to wait, to stop. 

Robin was right there.

You and Sanji both called for her, and you felt hot tears painting your face in relief.

She’s okay.

“Robin, let’s knock these guys out, then we’ll get out of here!”

Sanji moved toward her, but Robin lifted Usopp with her many arms, then tossed him across the car at Sanji’s feet.

“Robin, what are you doing? Let’s leave,” you begged, ducking around Franky’s arm and moving up beside Sanji.

“It seems that my words mean nothing to you people.”

Robin’s eyes hurt like ice, and you all stood in silence. You opened your mouth but couldn’t speak, couldn’t think under her gaze.

Rob Lucci broke out in laughter while you tried to find a crack in Robin’s walls, tried to see your lover behind all that ice. 

“Franky, quick! Detach the third car!” 

Usopp had jumped up, gesturing with his command as Franky and Sanji questioned him.

“We’re gonna run,” Usopp declared, voice hoarse with determination. 

“Wait,” you tried to argue, refusing to leave Robin, no matter what. 

Usopp spun through the air, shouting his attack as he set off a smoke bomb. 

You were still frozen until you saw him charging toward you, with Robin thrown over his shoulder demanding to be put down. 

Dangerous hope filled you as Franky and Sanji detached the car, and CP9 was sent away in their smoked filled car while you were stranded on the ocean. 

But the hope was short lived as massive thorny whips caught your car, and the agents readied to fight. The jostling of the car had sent you flying toward the back, wincing as you crashed onto your right hip and shoulder.

“Now remember, don’t kill the Straw Hats, it’s part of the agreement.”

Rob Lucci’s words were cold comfort as Sanji squared off with the larger man, who’s skills you hadn’t yet seen. 

Most of Sanji’s kicks seemed to do nothing, and you heard the other agents discussing their specialized martial arts training. 

You crawled your way back, still feeling unsteady in the car as it was battered by the waves. 

The long nosed man with the baseball cap spoke to the large man, giving you another name.

“Careful, Blueno. Don’t take him lightly. He may not have a bounty, but he’s one of their top fighters.”

“I will be as careful as necessary, Kaku.”

Kaku nodded in response, and you found yourself panicking, waiting to see why these agents were so feared.

Before you made it beside her, Robin held her arms in front of her chest, calling her many limbs. 

You watched in horror as she trapped Usopp, his poor, bandaged body being twisted in pain at her command. 

“Robin, What are you doing,” you screamed, racing for Usopp until she sent you a searing glare.

“Didn’t you hear me? Stay out of my business, leave me alone!”

Robin’s anger-filled command stopped everyone, until you screamed Sanji’s name, but you screamed too late.

Kaku flew toward him with a taunting laugh, his kick sending Sanji flying through the air, and shattering one of the wooden benches. 

“You Straw Hats are too damn stubborn when it comes to your friends. I’m gonna help you out!”

Franky leapt forward, pushing against the wall of the car. You couldn’t believe his strength as the wall started ripping away, until he sent himself and all the agents into their car, leaving you with Robin, Sanji, and Usopp, disconnected from the train.

Robin screamed that she wasn’t running away, and you felt another moment of hope even through her fear-shot words.

Blueno appeared, a strange, glowing doorway popping out of the wall. Robin moved to leave, but paused as you called for her. She paused this time. 

“Please, Robin! I know you’re still hiding something. But we’ll get through it together.”

“Yeah, Robin,” Usopp cut in. “A pirate’s not allowed to leave their crew without their captain’s permission. You need to believe in Luffy!”

Robin walked through the doorway as Sanji coughed, sputtering as he sat up.

“Robin, don’t go!”

“You can say what you like, she will never break her agreement.”

“How do you know that,” Sanji growled at Blueno, still struggling to his hands and knees. The agent towered over the three of you, face calm as he continued.

“Long ago, an island was erased. The navy issued a Buster Call, and burned it to the ground, without leaving a single trace behind. Nico Robin was the only survivor of that incident, just a child at the time.”

Nausea ripped through you, your heart breaking at the thought of such a small child witnessing that much horror.

“She never told us…”

Sanji’s breathless words had you moving toward him, needing to touch him as you heard your pain for Robin echoed in his voice.

Blueno went on, his dark words plain, as if it meant nothing to him. 

“Now that her childhood nightmare has been directed toward her companions, she no longer has the will to resist us.”

You and Sanji yelled now, rage bubbling in the air between you.

“You knew that, and you used it against her?”

“You people are sick, you hear me?”

Blueno walked toward his glowing door, looking over his shoulder for the last word.

“All of this is for the sake of justice.”

“Don’t give me that shit,” Sanji cursed, launching himself up to kick at his form as the door fizzled away to nothing. 

Silent sobs left you as you watched Sanji yell into the raging sea, pounding his fists on the floor. 

You rushed to Usopp, looking over his seemingly endless wounds, trying not to be drowned by the anguish in your heart.

Robin. Robin. Robin!

“Angel, we need to get ready.”

Swallowing another sob, you met Sanji’s red tinged eyes as he leaned over to push your hair out of your face.

“Our captain is on the way, this isn’t over.”

Nodding, you fought the quivering of your lip as you coaxed Usopp up, helping him to sit against the wall. 

“Come on, Sniper King. We’ve got more battles ahead.”

“Sniper King is always ready for battle,” he coughed, still managing to sound cheesy through his pain. 

You held Usopp’s hand, and Sanji wrapped his arm around you as you waited for the rest of your crew. 

Heading to Enies Lobby. The Judicial Island run by the World Government. 

The people that had destroyed Robin’s life, and terrorized her since she was a child. The people that were keeping her from you now. 

After knowing about her secret pain, about what the government wanted to do to her, you knew more than ever that you’d fight for her. No matter how weak you were. You’d do anything to save her.

Your breaths calmed, and your tears stopped. Sanji rubbed a few circles on your back before standing lookout, waiting for the other train.

Closing your eyes, you saw her face, and made yourself a promise.

I don’t care if I die in there. I won’t let them have her.

Thank You for Reading! 💜

TurtleTaub Fanfic Masterlist

We've All Got Needs Masterlist

Part 23

Tag List: @astheni-a | @ferns-fics | @heilee | @iamn1ya | @ghostfacefricker6969 | @onlybassoon01 | @apothicgloom | @slyhersophia | @cyberaestheticals | @nothing-but-brass

A/N: I hope you enjoyed it! I love this arc so much, it gets me everytime.

Buy me a coffee ☕🙏🏼

[deathmetalunicorn1]

That was amazing! Can I request a Part 6? Drum Island, where they need to find a Doctor for Nami and Reader who become severely sick

When Reader regains conscious, she keeps running away from Dr. Kureha in fear (Dr. Kureha took a little of Reader’s blood when she was unconscious to check what she’s infected with, and discovers her blood has a unique mutation that can reverse not only her cells, but others’ cells that have severe diseases/illnesses to curable stages) then puts two and two together on why a little girl could have so many scares and feels disgust, and darkly asks Luffy, Nami and Sanji if they’re the ones who gave Reader her scars, because if they are she’s going to kill them

Dr. Kureha tells Luffy and Nami that this is her theory, but based on Reader’s her scars, her reaction when she learned she’s a doctor and her power (And what she found out from her blood) that someone’s been taking Reader’s body apart to use as they see fit (Luffy, Nami and Sanji have never felt more horrified then murderous over the pain Reader had to endure)

When Reader meets Chopper, she quickly bonds with him and trusts him to treat her (She’ll slowly trust Dr. Kureha) as Luffy and friends battle the evil Wapol, she also doesn’t see Chopper as a Monster, rather thinks he’s cute and his blue nose is his ‘pretty’, and if he thinks he’s a monster, then they’ll be monster’s together, since they both have ‘horns’ (Though Chopper corrects her saying he has antlers)

Dr. Kureha tells Reader that if she can use her power correctly, there’s no telling how many people Reader could save (Calling Reader’s power the ‘Great Miracle’ all Doctors wished for and her existence is a miracle itself, which makes Reader cry because she’s always saw her power and existence a ‘Curse’) but tells her that it’s her power and only she should be allowed to use it as they leave to Alabasta

-Vivi was beside herself, trying to take care of both you and Nami, after she suddenly collapsed after guiding the ship through a sudden but short storm that would have knocked them off course.

-Nami was having the same symptoms at you and while scared at first that this sickness was contagious, Vivi found a similar bug bite on Nami as well.

-Vivi heard shouting up above and while not wanting to leave the two of you alone, you were both asleep and she went to investigate, finding a massive hulking person, Wapol, threatening Sanji and Luffy.

-After a very brief fight, Wapol was sent flying out into the ocean, which, for a Devil Fruit user, was normally a death sentence.

-Drum Island was covered in snow, everyone was bundled in thick jackets and for good measure, you were wrapped up in a blanket as well, being held in Vivi’s arms while Luffy carried Nami.

-Dalton tried to attack the crew with the former Drum Island militia, but after hearing what was going on, a woman and a child that desperately needed a doctor, he called off the attack and took everyone to Bighorn, a nearby village.

-Everyone was furious to learn that Wapol, the man Luffy punched earlier, had taken all doctors for himself, and if anyone on Drum Island needed medical attention, Wapol expected them to come and plead for help.

-A pirate named Blackbeard attacked, and Wapol, rather being the king he should have been, fled with his court and the doctors, abandoning Drum Island because he was scared.

-You whimpered softly and Luffy was quick to take you in his arms, holding you carefully, but you remained asleep as Dalton told them that there was one more doctor, Kureha, but many regarded her as a witch, and would only come down from her castle, Wapol’s former home, when she felt like it.

-Vivi, Zoro, and Usopp remained at Bighorn, mainly for the ship, while Luffy and Sanji, carrying you and Nami, made way to Drum Castle.

-Sanji sensed the Lapahns before Luffy did, as he had stepped on one, and leapt back, cradling you close, a glare in his eyes.

-Unable to fight properly, Luffy and Sanji were banged up, but after causing an avalanche, the Lapahns conceded, after Luffy pulled the parent of one out of the snow when a child was trying to dig it out.

-Sanji was still conscious, but injured across his back, having taken some claws to protect you before delivering a harsh kick.

-Kureha walked out, seeing the visitors, and found the two men, bloody and bruised, holding a woman and a child, but in need of medical attention before they quickly passed out.

-The men and Nami were up first, meeting Chopper, a blue nosed reindeer who ate a Devil Fruit and was a doctor himself!

-Nami looked around for you, growing concerned as Luffy was chasing Chopper around, demanding that he join the crew, loving the idea of a talking reindeer in his crew, “Where’s Y/N?! Is she okay?!”

-The doctor gave her a small nod towards another room, “Still asleep. That fever of hers did a number on her. I’m hoping you lot can help me understand something.”

-After getting everyone together in Nami’s room, Kureha told them how, while she was working on you, tending to your fever as well as running some blood tests, your horn seemed to flare with energy, and that energy surrounded you, healing your body, but due to you being so weak from being sick, you were still unconscious.

-Chopper nodded, “I’ve never seen anything like it before, is it a Devil Fruit ability?”

-A few hesitant glances were shared before Luffy gave a small nod, and Nami spoke, “Y/N’s ability isn’t a Devil Fruit ability, it’s something else, something she was born with, that’s what she’s told us. We don’t know too many details about it ourselves, other than she was abused terribly for it before running away and being capture by Alvida, before Luffy saved her. Her ability allows her to rewind time.”

-Chopper’s jaw dropped and eyes bulged, “Rewind time?!” Nami nodded and hesitated, only for a moment, “We don’t know all the details ourselves, but she was able to bring my mother, who died when I was a child, back from the dead from just a lock of hair.”

-Their jaws dropped before Kureha inhaled deeply, grabbing the newspaper, “That’s probably why the government is after her then. YN’s ability… in the wrong hands it could- I-I don’t want to even think about it.”

-Luffy punched his fist into his other hand, “And that’s why we’re protecting her. Nobody is allowed to hurt her ever again!”

-Kureha seemed pleased with his answer before she spoke, “Then I won’t kill you lot.” Kureha was fully prepared to kill them herself if they were the ones who had hurt you, “When I removed her bandages, the number of wounds and scar tissue she had on her little body, whoever had her was strategically hurting her, tearing her apart, I’m guessing to study this ability of hers.”

-They knew you were scarred, but to hear this from a doctor’s standpoint, that you were being tortured for your ability, the rage they felt was unlike anything they had ever felt before.

-Kureha was able to discover this easily, about what not only your ability, but your blood could do as well, and she shuddered to think if the government ever got their hands on you, knowing you would probably be even worse off compared to whenever you were with the bastards who did this to you.

-It was an hour later when you finally stirred, your vision blurry and your eyes went wide, finding yourself in a hospital and you instantly panicked, sitting up, “Big-big brother?!”

-Kureha entered, offering you a friendly smile, “You’re up! Glad to- don’t!” you leapt out of bed and quickly scrambled underneath, ripping your IV out as you huddled your legs tightly to your body, hyperventilating.

-She quickly exited the room and only moments later you heard strange footsteps before you came face to face with a…reindeer?

-Chopper entered, hearing you were having a panic attack, scared of doctors, and sent him in instead, and he got down on all four to peek at you.

-He was nervous, but not as much as he had been with your crewmates, you were a child.

-Your eyes were wide as you blinked, a bit confused about what you were looking at before he talked, “Your name is Y/N, right? My name is Tony Tony Chopper! But you can call me Chopper.”

-You mouthed his name, unable to form words and he nodded, offering you a hoof, “You shouldn’t be out of bed yet, you’re still pretty weak.”

-You hesitated but took his hand and let him pull you out, finding he was shorter than you, but gave you a friendly smile and helped you back onto the bed.

-He ran out, panicking that you were bleeding, going to get supplies and came back to find the wound gone, as you had healed it.

-He was gentle, tending to your wounds, “Does it hurt where it was?” you were still scared, not talking, shaking your head as he checked it out, “Does it hurt when you use your ability?”

-Your free hand lifted to your horn, touching it, “Some-sometimes, when I fix a big- a big…” your voice trailed off and he nodded, explaining that Luffy told him if you use your ability too much, you get fevers, which you confirmed.

-You smiled, thinking about your brother, wanting to see him, “Big brother tells me not to use it, so I don’t get sick. He tells me I only use it when I want to.” He smiled softly, patting your head gently, “He’s right, you only use it when you want to.” It was so unlike things when you were with Overhaul and Alvida, who forced you to use it on their whims.

-You asked to see your brother, or Nami or anyone, wanting to see your family, only to find out they were out fighting Wapol, who wanted his castle back. You tilted your head to the side, “What’s a Wapol?” you didn’t know him, so Chopper explained he was a cruel king who left many years ago and is now coming back.

-Chopper checked your temperature and made sure your body was okay, being so gentle with you, and he couldn’t help but grin as you poked his blue nose, “It’s so pretty.” Your words were so sweet and gentle before he looked down, “Thank you Y/N, but I don’t really like it. It makes me different- makes me a monster.”

-You knew that word well, your arms coming towards your chest, looking down as you nodded, “We- can we… can we be monsters together then, since we both have horns?” his face fell, eyes full of concern as he realized that you had been terribly abused, thinking that you were a monster.

-He remembered the words of your family well, that you could rewind time, and if you were being tortured, forced to use your ability, they probably forced you to rewind time on things and others called out a monster for it.

-He smiled gently, offering you his hoof to hold, “Technically I don’t have horns, I have antlers. But we can- together.” His answer made you smile, it made you feel like you belonged!

-Kureha entered and you instantly flinched, holding onto Chopper, scared, but she sat down on the empty bed across from you, “I won’t touch you, Y/N, that’s why I sent Dr. Chopper here instead.” Your eyes went wide, looking at him, “You’re a doctor?”

-He beamed, looking smug and proud, but you were so confused, he was a doctor, but he didn’t hurt you, he was so nice. You looked back at Kureha who saw your realization, giving you a grin and a small nod.

-Kureha, true to her word, kept her distance, ignoring the rumbling in the castle, hearing Luffy and the others fighting, and spoke with you, “Y/N, your ability is- it’s amazing! You could be the Great Miracle that all doctors have been wishing for, to help everyone they can!”

-The tears instantly swelled and spilled over, all your life, you’ve known this ability as a curse, and many had told you so, both your ability and existence, because without you, some people might still be alive!

-To hear that your gift was a miracle, and that you would help others, listening to Kureha that you could save the world if you learned how to control your ability.

-The thought seemed scary at first, but there was a swell of something inside of you, you felt so happy, like you were going to burst!

-You sobbed in relief, leaping into Luffy’s arms when he came to get you after defeating Wapol, clutching him tightly and Nami whacked him only once, scolding him for making you cry, as you were upset that he was injured again.

-You nearly were in tears again, holding Chopper’s hand as he was saying goodbye to Kureha, who was trying not to cry herself, not liking tearful goodbyes.

-Chopper was sobbing loudly as your whole crew was gawking with wide, wonderous eyes, as Kureha seemed to use magic to make it snow cherry blossom, the pink glow from the cannons illuminating the white snow in a pink hue. It was so beautiful! You had never seen anything like it!

-You were happy to be back on the ocean and Usopp couldn’t help but grin, seeing you opening up a bit more, showing Chopper all around the ship.

-The others learned quickly not to tease Chopper about eating him, you overheard them joking about it and Sanji and Zoro spent almost an hour trying to calm you down, each of them having several steaming lumps on their head while Nami and Usopp yelled at them while Luffy was hiding with Chopper.

Elsewhere

-A man sat in a bar, looking over a couple of bounty posters, a grin on his lips, “You’ve grown Luffy… but I’m kicking your ass because you never told me you got a little sister! That means I’ve got a little sister now!!”

[brainyxbat]

Chapter 1: Precursor To A New Adventure! Apis, A Mysterious Girl

(episode 54)

"It's a guiding light. The entrance to the Grand Line lies ahead of that light."

"The Grand Line is ahead of that light..."

"In order to find the All Blue!"

"In order to be King of the Pirates!"

"In order to become a master swordsman!"

"In order to draw a world map!"

"I-in order... to become a brave warrior of the sea!"

"In order... to become the greatest witch I can be!"

"We're going... to the Grand Line!!"

-

"Nami!" Luffy called out. "Aren't we in the Grand Line yet?"

"We just left Loguetown two days ago. It'll take a few more days. Wait a little longer."

Luffy was quiet for a moment, then beamed brightly. "Okay!"

"Two days," Venus breathed in awe, and shook her head with a small smile, "Feels like so much longer." Not only had it been two days since they left Loguetown, it had been two days since the young witch left the home she knew for years, and became a Straw Hat. On the deck, everyone was doing their own thing; Zoro was asleep, Luffy sat on the prow, and she, Sanji, and Nami enjoyed the refreshing ocean breeze.

"What nice weather!" Sanji commented. "That storm seems like a dream."

Up on the crow's nest, Usopp was searching the ocean with a telescope, when he saw something he couldn't make out. "Hm...? What the heck is that?" He had a closer look. "Hey! I see a flock of birds to starboard!"

"A flock of birds?" Luffy asked from his seat on the Going Merry's prow, resembling the head of a ram.

"Yeah. I also see something kind of big on the water. I can't see it well; I wonder what it is."

"Maybe a fish?" Luffy suggested.

"A small boat?" Usopp used one side of his new goggles in place of the telescope. "It could be a big fish too, but..."

"I often hear that seabirds flock above fish," Sanji chimed in.

"Fish?!" The captain was now excited.

"I could use some fish," Venus remarked.

"Luffy! Let's have them for lunch," The cook suggested.

"Alrighty! Gum-Gum... Grab!" Luffy reached out with a rubber arm to the sea.

"Whoa! Now that's a stretch!" Usopp praised.

"His body sure is convenient," Sanji said.

"I caught it!" Luffy grabbed something that felt like a medium-sized fish, and began retracting his limb. "It's pretty big!"

"Nice, Luffy!" Nami exclaimed.

Sanji noticed that his arm, not his hand, was closing in. Fast. "H-hold on a second... what're you gonna do now? Venus-chan, get down!" Just as Luffy's arm closed in, he pinned her to the deck; Zoro, on the other hand, was sent flying to the ocean, even staying in the same relaxed position, but now with an angry face.

Venus stood up, and watched him disappear from the view, then turned to Luffy with a stoic face. "Welp, you killed Zoro," She deadpanned.

The captain's arm snapped back. "Oh... sorry, Zoro."

"Dumbass!!" Sanji yelled angrily.

"I'm gonna... cut him down... someday," A furious Zoro grumbled to himself, as he was hauled up with a rope around his waist.

"Come on, big guy," Venus helped him up alongside Luffy, as Usopp, Nami, and Sanji gathered around the catch.

"Hey, look," Sanji said, "That's no fish."

"It's a girl!" Nami observed. In the middle of the circle was a little girl in a mustard yellow dress, and a white hat, with a blonde braid.

Luffy joined the circle once Zoro was on deck, as she untied the rope. "Oh? Is she a fishperson? Where's her web?"

"You idiot," Usopp glared, "Just how does she look like a fishperson?"

"Why was a little girl in a small boat like that?" Nami wondered aloud.

The crew laid the girl down in their makeshift infirmary in the kitchen, and waited for her to wake up. She came to at the smell of soup brewing, and shot up in surprise, colliding hard with Usopp's chin. "Ouch!" She held her sore forehead.

"So you've come to?" Nami checked in, "Seems you're doing better than I expected. Does it hurt anywhere?"

"You must be hungry," Sanji guess, "I'm cooking soup right now."

"Lucky!" She grinned to herself.

"Were you in a shipwreck or something?" Nami asked. "You could've been in big trouble. What's your name?"

The girl glared. "When you ask someone questions, you should give your name first."

The navigator chuckled, and winked. "Good point. My name is Nami. The one who's cooking soup in the kitchen is Sanji."

"Hi!" He grinned.

"The one with a scary face wearing a bellyband is Zoro," Nami continued."

"Shut up," He grumbled, trying to resume his nap interrupted earlier on.

"The one who's unconscious over there is Usopp. The one with the pigtails and hoodie is Venus."

"Charmed," The young witch said simply.

"I'm Luffy," He finished, "I'm captain of this pirate ship."

'What?!' The girl gasped in terror. 'Pirates?!'

"We're heading to the Grand Line," Luffy said, clueless to her fear.

There was complete silence for a few seconds, until Nami spoke up. "What's wrong?"

"She isn't moving," Luffy remarked.

"What're we gonna do with this kid?" Zoro asked.

"Ahhh, well, what should we do?" Luffy wondered. "Let's think about it tomorrow."

That night, the crew had turned in after wishing their guest a good night's rest. Everyone's peaceful sleep was suddenly interrupted by a scream of terror; at least, almost everyone's. Nami had fallen from her hammock from the scare, and turned to Venus; to her shock, the other girl was still deeply asleep, as if nothing happened. Her arms stayed crossed over her chest like a corpse, and she barely moved. 'How did she sleep through that?!' She thought, before going with the guys to investigate. Even though they learned on the first day that she was a terribly heavy sleeper, they still were not accustomed to it.

"I'll go in first." Sanji took charge, and entered the kitchen.

"Where's Venus?" Usopp whispered.

"Still asleep," Nami replied quietly.

"She sleeps like the dead, remember?" Zoro reminded.

"Oh yeah, I forgot," He grinned sheepishly.

"That girl wouldn't wake up for a volcano erupting," The swordsman remarked.

Sanji turned the light on, and saw the spring mousetrap he had set up had worked. "You again? You never learn no matter how many times I tell you, Luffy." The goofy captain was caught in the trap, the bar on his back, as he struggled to crawl out. "Can't you get it through your thick skull?" He then noticed the girl close by. "Hm? What're you doing?" She chuckled nervously, unable to answer.

"Yum!" Luffy happily chowed down on a slab of steak. The girl sat across from him, stubbornly refusing to eat.

"If you ask, I'll make something for you," Sanji reminded him, "So, like I told you, don't take food without asking."

"But I'm hungry."

Her stomach growled again. "What's wrong?" Sanji asked. "Aren't you eating?" She turned away. "You didn't eat this afternoon, either. Why're you holding back?" She stayed quiet. "I'm telling ya, it's not poisoned or anything," He assured, but she shook her head, "If you just sit there like that, he'll finish everything." That got her attention.

"If you're not eating, I'll eat it!" Luffy went to swipe her bowl of soup, but she snatched it.

"No!"

"Huh?"

She gobbled it down, and perked up. "Yum!!"

"Of course!" Luffy beamed. "Sanji's the cook I picked!"

"I've never eaten anything this good!" She gushed.

"You're finally smiling," Nami commented from the door, as Usopp and Zoro peered in.

"Oh, Nami-san!" Sanji exclaimed. "Where's Venus-chan?"

"Still asleep. You're eating again, Luffy?!" She scolded.

"I didn't eat that much for lunch."

"You emptied two pots, didn't you?" Usopp reminded.

"I did?" He tried to think back.

Nami walked over to her. "You got scared when you heard we're pirates, didn't you?"

"W-well..."

"Well, that's a natural reaction towards pirates these days."

"You're not gonna sell me off?"

"No way!" Usopp frowned.

"You're all evil-looking, so..." Zoro smirked.

"You've got a right to talk with that face?" Usopp stretched his cheek.

"What're you doing?!" A brawl began between them, as Luffy laughed.

"Ahh! That's enough!" Nami ordered.

The girl joined in, before Sanji came over. "We have more, madamoiselle."

"At least, this ship isn't the kind of pirate ship you're thinking of," Nami assured, "Don't worry."

Her smile grew back at that. "Another plate, please!"

"As you wish."

"Me too!"

"Do it yourself!"

"You meanie..."

Later, Luffy and Zoro hauled up the anchor, while Nami pulled down the sail. Sanji was walking to the crow's nest to begin lookout, when the ship began quaking. "Wo-oah!" Usopp stumbled over.

"Huh?" Luffy hummed in confusion.

Nami was about to change out of her blue top when the shaking began. "Wh-what happened?"

To everyone's surprise, the girl stumbled deliriously out of the smoking kitchen. "Hey! What'd you just do?" Sanji asked.

"I was preparing a meal!"

"What?"

"Everyone! Breakfast is ready!" She announced.

"Oh, breakfast?!" Luffy perked up.

"What breakfast explodes?" Zoro wondered aloud.

Venus came out of hers and Nami's sleeping quarters, and stretched her arms with a yawn. "What's cookin'?"

On their plates was... unrecognizable black, charred lumps. Nami chuckled nervously when everyone was silent, as the girl beamed with pride next to a reluctant Sanji, bandages on her face. "You made this?"

"Yep!"

"It has quite... a unique appearance," Usopp commented.

"Thanks! I'm digging in!" Luffy exclaimed.

"In addition to rescuing me, you're feeding me too." Sanji's pots, pans, and utensils were dirty, rusted and battered, as if they were used in combat. "I'll do anything to help you from now on!

"Uh... uhm," Nami grinned hesitantly, as Zoro was cringing, "That'll be helpful... thank you."

"Is this really edible?" Zoro griped.

An irritated Nami stomped on his foot, making him yell in pain, and shoveled his "food" in his open mouth. "Stop grumbling, and just eat it!" She shoved his jaws shut.

"But seriously, is it really safe to eat?" Usopp wondered aloud.

"Only one way to find out," Venus shrugged nonchalantly.

Luffy, on the other hand, was eating it like Sanji made it. "Really? This is good." The girl smiled with joy.

"That's right," Sanji added, "It's possible that just the appearance is bad." He and Nami each tried a bite.

"Really?" Usopp had one next, alongside Venus.

On cue, they all wailed at the terrible taste, and started chugging down some water to wash it down. "W-was it that bad?" The discouraged girl stammered, and had a bite herself. "Whoa! That's spicy!" She shrieked, as Sanji attempted to keep his composure. "What is this?! I put in the wrong seasoning!"

Sanji chuckled. "Well, that's a common mistake. You'll be fine if you are careful next time." He then turned to the others, who still had occupied plates. "Hey, she took the trouble to prepare it for us. Eat every crumb!" Zoro and Usopp groaned in disgust. "Shut up! Don't waste this girl's kindness. This girl's... oh, what's your name, by the way?"

"Apis!" She grinned. "My name is Apis!"

He turned back to the table. "Apis-chan put her heart into this food! Plus, I won't allow anyone to waste food!" He turned to the older girls, glancing between them. "I'll cook something for you two later," He whispered.

"Thanks."

"Thank you."

"I'm sorry," Apis frowned sadly, "I'm not good at cooking... but I wanted to be helpful!"

"Don't worry about it," Nami assured, "We really appreciate the thought."

"Leave the cooking to me," Sanji added, "There're many other things that you could help out with."

"Okay!"

"Really? This is good," Luffy repeated.

"You..." Everyone grumbled at him.

"I wanna eat BBQ next. I haven't had it in a while."

-

"Say, why were you drifting on the sea, Apis?" Nami asked, as Sanji washed the dishes.

"I escaped from a Marine ship..."

"A Marine ship?" Usopp repeated in awe.

"During the stormy night three days ago."

"In that small boat in such a storm..." Nami remarked.

"And for three days," Venus added, "You're reckless, kid."

"So what'd you do in the first place?" Zoro questioned.

"What?"

"You had to escape, which means you weren't on their ship as a guest, right?" He clarified. "But then the Marines wouldn't go after every little villain."

"W-well... uhm..."

"What? Are you a super villain?" Luffy asked.

"No!" Apis snapped. "There's no way I'd do bad things! I never did bad things... but I can't tell you why."

"What's that about...?" Usopp asked.

"What's the big deal," Sanji cut in, "She must have her reasons." He dried his hands after finishing the dishes. "If she doesn't want to say, then we shouldn't press her."

"That's true," Nami agreed, "But can you at least tell us where you're from?"

"What? Oh, yes... I'm from Warship Island."

"Warship Island?" Nami repeated.

"Do you know about it?" Usopp asked her.

"No. I'll check it out."

"Why is it called Warship Island?" Luffy asked Apis.

"It's because the shape of the island looks exactly like a warship."

"No kidding?" Venus raised her eyebrows in genuine surprise.

"Oh, that's interesting," Luffy commented.

"Ahh! This is the one!" Nami pointed to a small island on her map for everyone to see.

"Oh, it's close to the Grand Line," Usopp observed.

"We're around here right now," Nami moved her finger a short distance closer to the Red Line, "So it's not far. What do you wanna do?"

"What?"

"Do you wanna go back to Warship Island? If we keep sailing like this, we are going to enter the Grand Line."

Apis was quiet for a moment. "You were nice enough to save me, and I feel bad burdening you further... but I want to go back to the island! I'm sorry. I'm selfish, aren't I? If you hand me to a ship heading west on your way if possible, I'll work things out on your own."

"Oh my, that's a real burden!" Nami said. "There's no way that a pirate ship can get close to another ship so easily."

"What're you doing?" Venus narrowed her eye.

"Yeah, you're right," Apis hung her head down.

Nami then spoke up again. "But since it's not totally out of our way, and we're not really in a hurry... oh, what the heck."

"What?!"

"It doesn't matter either way to me. What should we do, Captain?"

"Yeah, that sounds fine," Luffy grinned.

"The Grand Line isn't that far either, so..." Usopp added.

"I see. The island looks like a warship, huh?" Luffy confirmed.

"Should be interesting," Venus remarked.

"Sounds like they've decided," Sanji announced.

"Really?!" Apis jumped to her feet with excitement. "Are you really going to stop by Warship Island for me?!"

"Yeah," Luffy replied.

"All right! Thank you, Luffy!" She jumped up and down with joy, and started rambling, as everyone smiled. Even Zoro and Venus. "All right! All right! I'm so happy! Thank you very much! Thank you! Thank you very much, everyone! To show my appreciation, I'll prepare lots of dishes every day!"

"No, that won't be necessary," Everyone, except the captain, kindly declined.

"Why not?"

-

Meanwhile, seven Marine boats sailed together, in search of Apis. On board one of them, the lieutenant commander marched outside. "Reporting! Ship sighted ahead at 13 o'clock! It's a mid-size caravel. I see a flag with a skull mark on the main mast!"

"Pirates, huh? They don't know their own station, sailing around in the seas under Commodore Nelson's control. I'm sure they're just small fries. Just leave them alone!" He commanded.

"No. That flag doesn't belong to small fries." The mercenary came out on the deck. "If I remember correctly, that belongs to Straw Hat Luffy, a man with a 30 billion Berry bounty on his head."

One of the Marines perked up. "Oh, the ones people have been talking about lately?"

"We still can't find the girl even with this big fleet," The mercenary paced, "It's possible that someone has her. Not to mention, pirates of that caliber isn't going to be a problem if you leave them by, Lt. Commander?" The man had purple hair slicked up like a hook, thin black shades, and wore a grey suit with a purple shirt. "Capture that ship!"

-

Nami walked outside, and sensed something was amiss. 'I wonder what that feeling is...'

"Hey!" Usopp called from the crow's nest. "I see ships approaching from the rear!"

"What?"

"Ugh! Oh man...! They're Marine ships!"

"Navy?!"

"And it's not just one or two ships, either!"

Nami ran to the side of the ship, and saw them in the distance. "He's right! But what's a fleet like that doing here?"

"What?" Luffy ran outside with Apis. "What? What's going on?" Apis gasped in horror at the ships. "Are they after my head?"

"That's a lot even for that!" Nami said.

"It means that they need that many to capture me, right? I'm amazing, right?" Luffy, ever the optimist, guessed enthusiastically.

"How can you be so easygoing?!"

"They've gotta be after Apis," Venus pointed out.

Sanji noticed her backing away. "Hm...? What's wrong?"

"Those ships belong to Branch 8! I escaped from them! What am I gonna do?"

A Marine looked over the Going Merry with a telescope. "Hm...? There! I found her! I see the girl on their deck!"

"What?!"

"It was just as I said, wasn't it, Lt. Commander?" He cringed at the mercenary's words. "Did I hurt your pride? But if you make a mistake, and lose that girl... the clue to the elixir of immortality, the Dragonite... I wonder how furious Commodore Nelson would get."

The commander glared, then began his orders. "Prepare the main cannons! We'll capture that pirate ship!"

Three cannons were fired. "Ugh! They're firing at us!" Usopp screamed in fear from the rope ladder. The ship quaked, shaking everyone up, but was ultimately unharmed. The cannons only shot in the waters close by.

"Attention, pirate ship! Stop the ship immediately! Those were warning shots; the next shots will hit your ship!"

Usopp clung to the side of the deck. "There's no way we'd stop!" He bravely declared.

"What're we gonna do, Luffy?" Zoro asked the captain, as Sanji held onto a scared Apis. "If you wanna take 'em on, I'm with you."

"Yeah," He agreed, "Why don't we?"

"Ahhh!" Usopp ran over. "W-wait a sec! Why are you guys always like this?! What the heck are you gonna do against that fleet?!" Sanji quietly began escorting Apis to the downstairs cabin through the rant.

"We'll make a raid on them," Zoro answered.

"A raid isn't gonna work!"

"We'll make it work," Luffy said.

"You can't!"

"We're not saying you have to come," Zoro pointed out, "Back us up with the cannon."

"What? So I'm staying on this ship? Okay, leave it to me! And we'll get clear of them at full speed! You take care of the rest."

Sanji noticed Apis staring intently at one of the seagulls perched on the upper deck. "Hey Apis, what's the matter?"

"He said a wind is coming." That caught Nami's attention. "A strong wind is..."

Nami gasped, and took charge. "Zoro! Lean the sail towards the south!" She commanded. "Usopp, Venus, and Sanji-kun, right rudder full! Hurry up!"

"O-okay."

"Aye-aye."

"Yes, Nami-san!"

"What's going on?" Luffy asked.

"A gust is coming. We'll ride it, and get out of here."

"Zoro, that's north!" Venus shouted. "Lean it in the opposite direction!"

"If we fight them head on, we'll lose no matter how good we are."

"We can take them, though..." Luffy pouted.

Nami turned, and looked down at Apis. 'This girl...'

"Their ship shows no signs of stopping," A Marine reported.

"They're mocking us!" The commander glared.

Just then, a huge gust of wind blew through the area, just as predicted. 'Here goes!' Nami glared in determination. The Going Merry sailed away with it at a rapid speed, escaping their adversaries.

"Ahh!" A Marine's eyes widened. "The pirate ship sped up, and changed route!"

"What?!"

"They're heading south!"

"South?! How foolish! Do they know what's in that direction?!"

"What're you doing, Lt. Commander?!" The mercenary demanded. "Go after them! Now!"

"Whoa! This is fast!" Luffy exclaimed, holding his hat. "This is a good wind!"

"Woohoo!" Venus cheered, now riding on the prow. "This is awesome!"

"Look at that, Luffy! The Marines are falling behind!" Usopp pointed out.

"Whoa!" Luffy turned, and saw he was right.

"Ha! You guys're slow turtles!" The sniper mocked.

-

The commander and mercenary watched in anger. "No good! We can't catch up!"

"A Marine fleet falling behind such a small ship?" The mercenary criticized. "Dimwit."

"A smaller ship has better mobility!" A Marine pointed out.

"I don't wanna hear excuses!"

"Lt. Commander, this ship will soon..." He was silent. "Lt. Commander..."

"I know!" He snapped. "Stop all the ships! Prepare to turn around!"

"Wait, Lt. Commander!" The mercenary stepped up. "Why are you stopping the ships?"

"If we keep going, we'll go into the Calm Belt!"

"So what? Go after them!"

"No!"

"You really don't appreciate the seriousness of this matter, do you?" He interrogated. "We can't lose that girl now. What're you going to say to Commodore Nelson?!"

"I'm prepared to take the punishment. I can't just sit by, and let this fleet and my subordinates be swallowed by the sea! No matter what you say, the chase ends here!"

"How... foolish..."

-

Usopp laughed in victory when the ships disappeared. "The Marines aren't following us! Did Captain Usopp scare the pants off them?"

"Amazing! Amazing!" Luffy rambled. "Just as you'd expect from our navigator!"

"Well done, Nami-san," Sanji swooned, "To think you detected such a wind beforehand."

"Well, it was like an instinct, though," Nami said modestly.

"Oh, Nami-san is lovely when she's humble too."

"Well then, shall we head straight to Warship Island?" Luffy suggested.

"Really?!" Apis beamed.

"Yeah, really."

"Okay then!" Usopp exclaimed. "To Warship Island, let's... go!!"

Through the excitement, Zoro was silently observing the area. Something felt... off. Why weren't the flags moving? Or the sails? "What's wrong, Zoro?" Nami asked. "You've had a serious look on your face for a while." Venus looked back from the prow.

"Well, I hope it's just my imagination."

"What is?"

"I feel like this ship hasn't been moving at all for a while."

"Y'know what, you're right," Venus agreed, "There's no breeze whatsoever."

There was a long pause between them. "What?" Nami noticed the sail at a complete standstill. "Come to think of it, the sail isn't catching any wind at all..."

"The ocean's not moving either," Venus pointed out, "No waves; not even little ones."

A scream from Nami caught everyone else's attention. "What's wrong, Nami?" Luffy asked.

"Nami...-san?"

They all noticed her expression of terror. "Dammit... we've entered the Calm Belt!!"

[mimi-ya]

lessons ~ roronoa zoro x reader

4,000 words | she/her reader, f!body | nsfw

summary: zoro accepts love lessons from the love cook himself

masterlist

“You’re going to lose her.”

Zoro cracked an eye from his spot against the ship’s rail, “What’s that?”

Sanji takes a drag from his cigarette, “(Y/N)-swan deserves better than you.”

A hand flies to the swords at his hip, teeth bared as he hisses, “I really don’t think I heard you that time.”

Sanji just shrugs, crushing the cigarette under the sole of his shoe, “We all just saw you turn her down again.” He tilts his head at the pier where you’re standing with the other Straw Hats, “How many more times until you think she’s had enough?”

You had asked Zoro if he wanted to accompany you to the island, find some shops to browse and maybe grab a bite to eat. But Zoro had passed, saying he’d rather stay behind and nap. You had just smiled and told him you’d bring back a snack, pressed a quick kiss to his cheek before following the others.

“She said it was fine.” Zoro snaps, annoyed with the lovesick cook sticking his nose where it doesn’t belong.

“Women won’t say their problems to your face, it’s all about reading between the lines.”

“And what would you know about that?”

Sanji just gives a condescending grin, “Don’t say I didn’t warn you.” He waves as he walks down to the pier before calling over his shoulder, “Let me know if you ever want any advice!”

Zoro folds his arms across his chest, “Stupid cook.” He grumbles, closing his eyes, “Doesn’t know shit, hasn’t even been with a woman.”

You and Zoro had formed an unspoken but obvious relationship after reuniting at Sabaody. He hadn’t realized what had been missing in those two years until you walked right back into his life.

It was quick for both of you to realize how desperately you had missed each other. And it didn’t hurt that the two of you arrived at the Sunny several days before anyone else, giving you plenty of time to reacquaint.

It was a simple thing that followed.

You’d watch him exercise. He’d make sure to save you food from Luffy. You’d lean on him when he’d nap. He’d sneak into your bedroom at night. Zoro thought it was perfect.

But did you?

You were never afraid to say what was on your mind, so surely if you had a problem, you wouldn’t hold back.

Shitty cook didn’t know what he was talking about.

Right?

That question weighed him down all day, eventually leading him to the kitchen way before dinner would even be ready.

“What’s in it for you?”

Sanji doesn’t even pause in his chopping, “Nothing.” He shrugs, “(Y/N) deserves the best. And unfortunately, her poor taste has led her to you.” Zoro grinds his teeth, “Might as well make sure you don’t break her heart.”

“Fine.” He grunts, “But you better not be fucking with me.”

It was the next morning when Sanji woke Zoro up with a swift kick and dragged him out of bed.

“Lesson one. Women love to be complimented.” Sanji slams a sheet of paper in front of Zoro, “They deserve to be reminded of their beauty and perfection.”

Zoro scans the words written down, “My love for you stretches further than the Grand Line? If there was a bounty for beauty yours would be higher than any Yonko? What is this shit?”

Sanji rolls his eyes, “This,” He punctuates with a finger to the paper, “Is how you tell a woman you love her. When was the last time you said anything nice to (Y/N)-swan?”

“I told her that her tits looked good in my shirt just last night.” Zoro says like that’s something to be proud of and Sanji swears he’s going to pop a blood vessel before this is over.

Zoro was sent away from the kitchen (read: physically kicked out) soon after with the task of giving (Y/N) one compliment before the day was over. He grumbled about it, annoyed that the shitty cook doesn’t think he tells you nice things.

But that didn’t stop Zoro from reading through the list once or twice. None of the shit written down is anything he would say, but maybe that’s the point.

“Whatcha got there?”

His body goes rigid at the sound of your voice, quickly balling up the piece of paper in his hand and launching it overboard into the sea below.

“Nothing!” Zoro turns around, leaning against the ship’s rail as if it was any other day, “What do you want?”

“Uhh.��� Your eyes glance at the sea below and back to Zoro, but his intense gaze makes you think the last thing he wants is for you to bring up whatever that was, “I was going to grab breakfast and head up to the crow’s nest if you wanted to join?”

Zoro just nods and trails after you and trying his best to ignore Sanji’s pointed stare when you’re getting your bowl.

One of your favorite moments in the day were your early morning breakfasts with Zoro. He would have usually completed his first work when you’d bring up whatever was served that morning. Enjoying breakfast in each other’s presence while watching the sun fully rise.

“The fruit is really juicy this morning.” You comment, taking a bite of the ripe melon.

“You’re, uhmm.” He clears his throat, “You’re juicier than any devil fruit.”

Your eyes bulge out of your head, melon dropping form your lips straight into your lap.

“Rarer! I mean, you’re uhmm. There’s only one of each, like how there’s one of you?”

Not a word comes from you as you stare at Zoro as if he grew an extra head. His fumbling over his correction didn’t make it any better, nor the blush that stained his cheeks.

Zoro watches as your mouth closes and nose scrunches slightly. The way your teeth suck against your lips, as if you’re holding something back-

“What!?!” You erupt into a fit of laughter, almost hysterical, “Oh my, what did you just say?!”

“Nothing!” Zoro yells, abandoning his breakfast and jumping to his feet before storming out of the room.

“Wait!” You call in between laughs, “Come back!” You’d normally go after him if you could, but you’re too busy wiping tears from your eyes and trying to calm your giggles.

Everyone can tell Zoro’s in a sour mood for the rest of the day. But what they don’t understand is why you’re so giddy, almost chasing him down when ever he walks near you just for him to turn around and go back the direction he came from.

It’s something Sanji picks up on right away.

“Knew you’d mess it up.”

“I didn’t mess it up.” Zoro bites out.

“Right.” Sanji rolls his eyes, not even bothering to dignify his excuse, “Let’s get going.”

He leads Zoro down the pier to the edge of the town they had docked at this morning. It was a bustling island and Sanji knew this was the perfect place for Zoro’s next lesson.

“What’s she doing here?” Zoro nods at the navigator who looks like she’s waiting for them.

“I’ve recruited the beautiful Nami-swan since it’s clear my efforts alone aren’t enough.”

“What’s the cost?” Zoro throws daggers at the navigator, more than familiar with her craftiness and greed.

“For once, it’s free.” Nami answers.

Zoro scoffs, “Yeah right.”

A smirk grows on her face, “Sanji told me about your little lessons, not that I think he’s any expert in the field.” She ignores the outcry over her shoulder, “But if you insist on paying, I am more than happy to charge my services.”

“And what are these services?” Zoro crosses his arms.

“Ladies deserve to be treated to something that reminds you of their beauty and love you have for them.” Sanji explains, “And Nami-swan knows more than anyone about the fine art of gift giving.”

“Pfft, more like swindling.”

Sanji ignores Zoro’s comment, “And she is going to help you find the perfect gift to show your love to (Y/N).”

Zoro holds back a comment or two while Nami drags towards a boutique where she immediately runs to the clothes. She pushes aside hanger after hanger on the rack, “Do you know what kind of outfits she likes?”

“No.”

“Well, what about jewelry?” She points at a stand across the street with shiny trinkets on display.

“I don’t know.”

Nami glances over her shoulder, “Okay, well maybe you can get her something else she likes. What sort of hobbies does she have?”

“How should I know?” Zoro snaps, annoyed with all her questions.

“Aren’t you her boyfriend? These are normal things you should be able to answer! Do you know anything about (Y/N)?”

“I know that this is a waste of my time!”

“I’m still charging you a fee!” Nami calls after Zoro who stalks away.

What would either of them know about getting you a gift? It couldn’t be that hard. Hell, you keep that stupid rock Luffy found you on your nightside table because he said it reminded him of you.

Zoro nearly misses the store, too busy muttering to himself. It was pure luck he looked up at that moment, seeing what was displayed in the window.

He smiles to himself. Gift giving was easy.

Zoro returns to the ship later that evening, having spent a bit longer finding his way back than it took him to get to the town in the first place. He groans when he sees Sanji and Nami waiting on the deck.

“Did you end up finding something for (Y/N)?” Sanji asks, arms crossed and eyebrow raised.

Zoro straightens and proudly shows off your gift, “I did.”

“You were supposed to get her something she would like! Not you!” Nami screams, hitting Zoro upside his head.

“Watch it you witch!” Zoro tries his best to dodge her hands, “She’ll like it better than any of the stupid crap you picked out!”

“It’s alright Nami.” Sanji raises his hand, “We’ll see how many times he needs to fail before he takes our advice.”

Zoro rolls his eyes and pushes past the two. He decides to find your straight away so he can be sure rub it in the cook’s face at dinner. You’re going to love them. Who doesn’t love swords?

“Here.”

You glance up from your book just as the objects land with a thud on the edge of your bed, “For me?” You ask, a little confused why Zoro would give you these wooden practice swords. They look like they would be more apt for a child and way below the skill of Zoro, “I don’t know how to use a sword.”

“That’s why I got them.” You cock your head to the side, “To teach you.” He clarifies.

Your eyes widen, picking one up and turning it over in your hand, “You want to teach me swordsmanship?” Even if they are wooden, it looks like they’re nice quality. Sturdy and well molded.

Zoro’s starting to get a little worried as you turn the sword over in your hand. Maybe he should have just gone with the stupid necklace or something.

Suddenly you jump up from the bed, tightening your grip on the sword in your hand before reaching down to toss him the other, a wide grin splitting your face, “Let’s go now!”

By the time Zoro can comprehend your excitement you’ve already sprinted past him, landing a light blow to his ass and giggling as you go.

He’s stock still for a moment before a grin stretches across his face and he chases after you.

.

It’s the next morning and your body is aching and sore from the workout Zoro put your through last night. And while your typical late night activities with Zoro leave behind a delicious burn, the swordplay had you feeling more stiff than usual. Hopefully Chopper still had some solvent left over or would at least be able to make you a batch.

You hadn’t planned on eavesdropping, but when you passed by the kitchen and saw Zoro and Sanji sitting side by side and not trying to kill each other, you felt it was your responsibility to make sure everything was okay.

“You’ve failed every attempt so far.”

“That’s not true! She liked the swords!”

“She felt sorry for you!” Sanji takes a deep breath, steading himself, “But there’s still hope. Our next lesson is about the sensual side of women.”

“Fuck no.”

“Excuse me, marimo?”

“There’s no way I’m talking about that with you.”

Sanji looks ready to explode, “I’m not sure what else to do with you! You can’t handle the simplest things, and now you won’t even listen!”

Zoro launches himself to his feet, “Your advice has been shit anyway! I knew this was a waste of time!”

Sanji waves his hand, “Fine, but don’t come crawling to me when (Y/N)-swan dumps your ass.”

Zoro balls his hands into fists, his anger matched with a look of pure rage on his face.

Now would be a good time for you to intervene.

“I had a feeling something was up.” You push open the door and reveal yourself, causing both men to freeze, “Sanji, can you give us a moment?”

Sanji eyes briefly glance between the two of you, and one might even say he looked a little worried, not that he would ever admit it.

You wait for him to leave before turning to Zoro, “Care to explain what that was all about?”

He falls back into his seat, folding is arms across his chest before glaring at the floor. A moment passes and you don’t think he’s going to answer, but then he lets out a long sigh, “The shitty cook was giving me,” He meets your eye before looking back at the floor, “love lessons.”

You don’t even try to hold back your surprised laughter, “What! For me?”

Zoro shrugs, still not meeting your eye. You’ve never seen his face so red before and it hits you exactly what he’s been trying to do for you.

You don’t know exactly how long this could have been going on for, but for him to willing endure Sanji for you?

Now that’s something special.

“Zoro.” You situate yourself between his knees, fingers cupping the underside of his jaw so he’ll look at you, “I’m with you, because I like you the way you are.”

His shoulders sag slightly, as if a weight has been lifted, and you wonder how much this might have been weighing on him.

“I don’t need flowery words that Sanji feeds you.” You press a kiss to his lips, “You don’t need to buy me presents.” You straddle his lap, his hands coming to settle on your hips, “Or whatever else Sanji came up with.” Your arms wrap around his shoulders, “I just need you. You know that, right?”

Zoro’s body slowly loosens, his hands resting on your hips. He looks up to meet your eye, “You’re special to me.”

Your heart is beating so fast you think it might explode outside your chest. This is the Zoro you fell for. He might not be the poet some people dream of, but when he says things like that?

You can’t stop yourself from pressing your lips to his, your body flush against his chest. You smile into the kiss when Zoro grunts against your lips, not expecting the sudden affection.

His tongue sneaks into your mouth, one of his hands shifting around to rest on your ass. You can feel him hardening against your leg, and it’s clear Zoro has intentions.

“Zoro.” You whine as he trails kisses down your neck, “What about Sanji?”

“Shitty cook,” A kiss to your shoulder as he pushes down your shirt, “Said this was the next lesson anyway.”

A squeak escapes you when Zoro suddenly stands, lifting you easily as he carries you to island countertop. Depositing you gently on your feet before motioning for you to turn around.

You bite you lip in excitement when his lips return to you neck, hands coming around from behind to cup your breasts.

Breathless pants fill the room and you have to grip the counter in front of you when rough and calloused hands trail your sides before they quickly push your pants down.

Cool air hits you, causing a shiver to run down your spine, and just as suddenly there’s movement behind you as Zoro falls to his knees and presses his face right into your aching cunt.

“Ahh!” You collapse to your elbows, “Zor-ahh. Zoro!” You choke out between moans, “We don’t- We don’t have time!”

His tongue licks a fat stripe into your folds before catching on your sensitive nub that has you muffling your cries into the crook of your elbow.

Zoro digs his fingers into your ass cheeks, spreading you wide to continue his assault on your cunt. His tongue diving into to get a taste straight from the source. He can’t help but moan at the tangy flavor, definitely his favorite meal in the morning.

The vibrations from his mouth sending a shiver up your spine, “Just fuck me already!” You snap, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of begging, but you can’t take this any longer and any minute someone might stumble through the door.

Zoro pulls back and tuts, mildly annoyed you’re interrupting him, “That desperate, huh?” But none the less stands from his knees, the sound of clothes rustling reaching your ears.

His hips press into your ass, hardened cock sliding through your wet folds in a way that has you keening. And then his cock’s fat head is pulling back before pushing at your entrance.

A comforting hand runs down your spine, slipping under your shirt and his skin is burning against yours, “Deep breath.” He mutters, waiting for you to follow his orders.

You suck in as much air as you can, bracing yourself as he slides the first few inches in. Choking on your exhale as he splits you open. Even with his prep and your aching desire, it’s still a lot to handle.

“Again.” He says, but you can hear the edge in his voice, like he’s holding back from slamming into you.

You fill your lungs, fingers clenching into fists while you wait. But instead of stuffing you to the brim like he normally would, he flattens himself against you. Slipping in a little more of his girth but trying to hold back as he presses a kiss against your cheek, his hand grasping around your closed fist.

“Good girl.” He whispers against the shell of your ear, intertwining his fingers with your own. A smile graces your lips under his praise, momentarily distracted from yearning in your cunt.

That is until he uses the opportunity to ruthlessly thrust and bottom out.

Your squirming and thrashing underneath is involuntary, unable to comprehend the pressure and fullness you feel all at once.

“Knock it off.” He mutters, pulling back slowly to push back in with twice as much force.

“Ahh!” You cry out, gripping his hand for dear life as he begins a vicious pace. Wet slaps of skin filling the kitchen as his cock bullies its way deeper inside you.

The counter’s edge is digging into your stomach, but even that can’t distract you from the pleasure that’s building at your core. How his thick length splits you in half just to fill you again and again.

Zoro’s hand cups your jaw, forcing you to look forward towards the door, “Let ‘em here it.” He says, knowing how you’re holding back the whimpers and moans from him in order to preserve some sort of decency.

But Zoro doesn’t care. He wants everyone on this ship to know how good he’s giving it to you. That he’s more than enough for you, just the way he is.

“Zoro.” You whine when his thrusts slow to a delicious drag of his hips in and out that has you teetering on the edge.

He grunts at the feel of your cunt pulsating around him, “Not until I hear it.”

You wiggle your ass, trying to entice him to return to the quick pace from earlier, but he’s got the upper hand with his weight pressed against you. You can feel his cocky smile against your shoulder, making it clear you won’t be getting anything you want until he gets what he wants.

“Then make me.” You bite out, sick of his games and hoping to provoke him enough to let you fall over the tip of pleasure.

He stills for a moment, and you try to look over your shoulder, but suddenly a hand presses into your back, forcing you flat against the countertop. You can feel him shift behind you, rising to his full height.

His cock pulls out slightly before ramming back into you, again and again. Your hands fly to your mouth, trying to cover the moans that are spilling out through your fingertips.

But Zoro is having none of it.

He pulls on your arms until they’re behind your back, one hand gripping both of your wrists while his other sneaks around to rub circles at your clit that’s been throbbing since his tongue had been prodding at it earlier.

You whimper his name, your face smushed against the counter. You can just make out his figure in the corner of your eye. Sweat pooling at his brow and pants falling from his lips as he drives into your poor abused cunt over and over.

He catches your eye and smirks, which should have prepared you for what’s to come. Hips angling just a smidge upward, and suddenly his cock is dragging against that spot.

“Zoro!” You scream, no longer caring if you wake up the entire ship, so long he keeps this up.

“That’s it.” Zoro grunts under his breath, eyes transfixed on where his cock is disappearing into your cunt only to come back shinier and wetter each thrust. Your babbled pleases and cries are music to his ears as he keeps up with the grinding of your hips, loving the sensation of you choking his cock with your tight walls.

Your body goes rigid for a moment when you finally hit that peak, eyes rolling into the back of your head and clamping down so hard that Zoro thinks his dick might just break off inside you.

Pleasure thrums through your limp body as you collapse against the counter. You know Zoro’s still rutting into you, helping draw out this climax as much as he can. But you’re a million miles away enjoying the haze that has washed over you.

And then there’s a heat that fills you to the brim, Zoro’s choked grunts in your ear and a smile graces your lips when his body shudders above yours, tapering out after a few more thrust.

His heavy pants tickle at your neck while both of your chests move in tandem with labored breaths. His lips press against your sweat covered neck, “Do me a favor, will ya?”

.

Sanji is going to kill him.

Not only is he behind schedule for breakfast, the marimo had the nerve to defile his kitchen. Which will only cost him even more time in order to disinfect every surface the two of you might have touched.

Just as Sanji was about to crack and barge in there, the door swings open.

Zoro and you stumble out, his arm wrapped around your shoulders.

Sanji thinks he’s going to be sick from looking at the disheveled state you’re in. Clothes askew, love bites forming on your throat, not to mention that smug fucking look from the marimo.

“Sorry about that Sanji-kun.” You smile sweetly, and Sanji feels almost all his anger dissipate at your lovely face, “I was just telling Zoro how much I loved the gift you helped him pick out.” You glance up at Zoro, who’s clearly enjoying the confused look on the shitty cook’s face, “His sword really is the best thing about him.”

With a wink, you let Zoro lead you towards the deck, quite aware of the state you’ve left poor Sanji in, who is definitely going to need to disinfect the counters, as well as his eyes and his ears.

But it was so worth it when Zoro flashes you a grin that warms your heart and reminds you of just how lucky you are.

[solar-pxwered]

In which Nami makes good on her promise to make Sanji work off his debt to her for his betrayal and regretful words are spoken.

One-Shot No warnings. Just good old fashioned angst and hurt/comfort dynamics. A little hint of my shipping preference tossed in there. Maybe I'll continue this and make it way more shippy and smutty, who knows? Knowing myself, probably.

-------- will put a readmore here as soon as I get on my laptop, but tumblr mobile sucks and I don't know how to put one here anymore on the app ------------

I'm going to drive you like a horse.

That was the promise she had made to him so sternly when they'd had a moment alone in that hallway...and it was a promise she was holding herself to firmly.

Drive him she did. Any chore needing done on the Sunny, no matter how trivial or how difficult, was given to him. Chopper needed help organizing? Sanji was on it. Franky needed help fixing? Sanji was there. Bathroom needed a deep clean? Sanji's job now. Deck needed a good swab? Not good enough...Sanji was going to scrub the ENTIRE ship with a cloth, bucket and good old fashioned elbow grease. The sails needed to be furled or raised? Sanji was the one sent running to the main sail while Zoro had been demoted to the rear. Sure, the heavy main sail would be easier for Zoro whose upper body strength far surpassed the cook's, but that would defeat the purpose.

One problem with her little slave driver plan...he wasn't resisting even a little bit, in fact he took on every task she gave him with no complaints and a smile and even an enthusiastic "Of course, Nami-san." It wasn't at all the contrition and penance she had hoped to see. She wanted him to regret his betrayal, to feel just a hint of the pressure she had felt on her body and soul in his absence as she took over his work and existed in the empty space he left, she wanted him to suffer as she had and it just wasn't fair that he wasn't even fazed by her workload.

And so she upped the ante.

She began waking him up in the middle of the night with outlandish requests for midnight snacks of the most random or  complicated variety she could come up with and assigning him to more than his fair share of night watches; she was pleased to see the sleep deprivation was beginning to take a toll on his cheerful compliance. His shoulders were slumped as he worked now, his pace was slowing even when it came to cooking the meals, she caught him rubbing at his red and heavy eyes frequently, and his grinning "Of course, Nami-san"s were a thing of the past.

Even so, he never complained or asked her to let up on him. He took every midnight wake up call in stride and never fell asleep on watch, he scrubbed the deck on hands and knees every day and left it perfectly squeaky clean, no job assigned was half-assed.

And it pissed Nami off more than ever. She was happy he was back safe and sound but it didn't seem fair to her that he should get off scott free like Luffy had allowed. She was not so lenient on betrayal as their Captain. Those two may have settled things in that field, but she had gotten no such closure yet.

The crew had all begun to give him sympathetic looks when Nami would order him to help one of them out, they would insist they could manage on their own but she insisted harder. Still, no one spoke up against her because everyone knew this was something she needed to do to move past it and so they let her take out her frustration while giving Sanji apologetic little smiles. Chopper had spoken out at one point but Nami had silenced him with a glare that had left him leaking little tears out of his eyes as he went back to crushing herbs.

Even Zoro, who had initially been very amused by the workhorse role given to the cook, had winced and very nearly resisted when Sanji showed up to take watch for the third night in a row. He had settled on a silent exchange of understanding between the two of them and then a muttered "If you need me, you know where to find me" before retiring to the bunks.

Usopp, Brook and Luffy attempted to make any chore he was given that was a task they themselves should be doing less of a burden by telling jokes and trying to make him laugh. It worked sometimes, but not nearly as much as it used to.

Robin was the one who took actual, physical initiative to alleviate the burden on Sanji's shoulders and Nami was annoyed to see a second pair of hands frequently working alongside the blonde while their owner sat in a deck chair reading as if nothing was amiss. Sneaky, Robin, but not sneaky enough to get past Nami's observant gaze.

Something had to give, she knew it and he knew it and everyone knew it...but she refused to budge, he was going to break first and once he was begging for her to let him get back to his normal duties and get some decent sleep THEN she would let up. But he didn't, he showed no signs of begging for anything, and it was irksome.

Nothing lasts forever and strings pulled so tight were bound to fray and snap eventually, and everything came to a head one early morning during a request for sugared tangerine peels at 2 AM on his night off from watch.

"Sugared tangerine peels is definitely a new one." Sanji commented as he sliced expertly around the fruits just deep enough to penetrate the peel but not the flesh underneath. His skills remained sharp even in his exhausted state, the dark circles under his eyes and the heavy downward turn of his lips were the only signs of how tired he truly was. Normally he was all smiles when cooking anything, especially if it was for her or Robin.

"I just had a craving, that's all." Nami replied, checking her nails as if this whole situation was a bore to her. Secretly though, she was admiring the skillful way his hands worked at the task. She had always been fascinated by how naturally he fit in the kitchen, like he didn't even need to think about what he was doing at all. She had taken on the role of cook in his absence and she hadn't been nearly as good or fast...but she had managed to keep the crew fed and alive anyway. It was hard work, providing for that many people, three meals a day. She had to admit that he earned his keep.

"Happy to make you anything you want, Nami-swan." His sentiment was the usual, but even though she knew he meant it as seriously as ever, there was a weariness in his tone that hadn't been there before and Nami smirked at the realization he was beginning to fold under the pressure.

So why not add a little bit more? Just for fun, of course, because it was always so easy...and she would never admit out loud that she had begun to miss his normal, lust-filled gaze; it had been replaced by exhaustion for a while now. So she waited until he had turned to place the newly removed peels on the tray he had set on the counter between and then she stretched her arms over her head, purposely accentuating and pushing forward her chest that was covered only by her very thin and lacy sleep camisole. She added a cherry on top by making a very sensual sound as she stretched the sleep induced tension from her muscles. Sanji's throat bobbed as he swallowed tightly, she noticed, and she caught his gaze on her chest a moment before he noticed her watching him and he averted his eyes immediately. Well, that certainly wasn't the reaction she wanted...how could she tease him if he refused to even look at her long enough for it to count?

"See something you like?" She asked, her tone deadpan.

"Everytime I see you."

What kind of response was that? Honest and open and infuriatingly innocuous.

Annoyed that her little plan had failed, she crossed her arms and leaned back from the counter, pouting slightly with her brow furrowed. She didn't know how to respond to that so she went back to observing him instead. He worked silently, laying the peels out perfectly even on the baking tray, but then she noticed the tiniest trickle of red descending on his upper lip. A nosebleed, of course, but a singular drop from flared nostrils and not the typical steady flow. She found herself even more annoyed that he'd managed to keep his composure even when her little display HAD effected him after all.

"Why do you always do that?" She griped, gesturing vaguely at him.

"Do what?" He finally looked up at her again, wiping away the small drop of blood with the back of his left arm and quirking his stupid, singularly visible curly eyebrow at her questioningly.

That made her even more annoyed, the swirl above his blue eye reminded her of where he came from and the secrets he'd hid from them all for so long; her mind filled with the leering gazes of his brothers when they'd seen her and her gut twisted at the memory of the look in Sanji's own eyes when he had looked at her. Not sexually like his brothers, but with such intense hatred she was sure she would burn up on the spot.

"Flare your nose like that?" She clarified, hotly. "It's like you're trying to smell me or something. You can't, can you?"

For the first time since she'd woken him up, his lips quirked in an amused smile.

"Of course not. Not from over here."

"Well, how am I supposed to know what you're capable of?" Her tone was cold, accusing, and his smile faltered. She should have taken that as a cue not to say anything more, that he had received the message loud and clear, but her words spilled out too fast for her brain to stop them. "You're a failed science experiment, after all."

The silence that followed her statement was deafening and her regret was instantaneous, but there was no taking it back and she knew it. The line that she had been toeing so carefully between reasonable punishment and pure sadism had not only been crossed, she had practically made a leap from one side to the other. The way he was looking at her made her feel sick to her stomach, she had never seen such an expression on his face before and she never, ever wanted to see it again.

She couldn't speak. He couldn't speak. Neither of them made a sound. They just stared at each other for what must have been mere seconds but felt like an eternity.

"Sanji...." she began, not even knowing where to go from here, but she closed her mouth almost immediately. To her absolute horror, tears had begun to well up in Sanji's eyes and she felt her heart plummet to her belly.

He broke their staring contest first, ducking his head and turning his back to her, shaking hands reaching into his pockets to find a cigarette and his lighter. He pulled one out and put it between his lips and it shook there too.  His lighter's flame shook as well from a mixture of his unsteady hands and the staccato rhythm of the very quick and short breaths he was taking. The flame burnt out and he tried again. After four tries, he managed to light up and he pulled in such a deep drag that Nami found her own lungs burning in sympathy.

When he finally released the long held breath, smoke billowing out around him, the full weight of her words struck Nami solidly in the chest and her own eyes began to tear up. She knew the details of his unfortunate past, she knew why he had done what he had done, she knew everything that had happened to him while they were separated, and she finally saw him with eyes unclouded by betrayal and anger. This is was still her Sanji in front of her, the same idiot who had fallen for her the second he'd seen her on the Baratie, the same fool who had sacrificed himself for her safety over and over again, the same moron who would do anything for a mere whim of hers to become reality, and the same man who had seen no opportunity to save his crew again without taking it all on his own shoulders. Not a failed anything, but her friend. Maybe her BEST friend. Maybe more...? But she'd been treating him like a prisoner, like someone she felt nothing for, making him suffer more than he already had.

Judge Vinsmoke's final words to his son as they had passed by him after stealing Sanji back rang in her head. She had sounded just like that horrible demon of a man just then and she hated herself for it!

"That was..." she tried to speak again but Sanji interrupted her this time.

"How you really felt." He finished her sentence for her, although not at all what she would have said. His tone was flat and empty, lacking the pain and tearful choke she thought it would have held. The nicotine in his veins must have been doing it's job; he was calm. Too calm. "And also the truth."

"It's NOT!" Nami let go of every ounce of anger she'd been holding onto in that moment, pushing the tray of carefully arranged tangerine peels out of her way so she could launch herself across the counter to stand in front of him, reaching out to grab his shirt, fisting it firmly in her clenched hands. "It's not the truth and it's not how I really feel!"

His calm tone had been a carefully maintained wall, she knew as soon as she looked at him. His voice may have come off calm and collected but his face told a whole other story. His eyes were no longer just brimming with tears, they were freefalling off of his long, dark lashes and sliding down his reddened cheeks. His jaw was trembling from the effort of holding everything inside, but it was what she could see in the blue tinted windows to his soul that got to her most of all: understanding.

Understanding because he truly believed what she had said, what everyone said about him, what he's been told over and over again.

"It's okay, Nami, you're not wrong," He managed to get the words out somehow, however stiffly they left his mouth, "I just didn't expect to hear you say it."

Her grip on his oversized sleeping shirt tightened even more, impossibly firm to the point her nails were digging into her palm even through the white material. She tried her best to give him what she hoped was the most intensely repentant look she was capable of.

"I was wrong! He was wrong too! You're not a failure in any way! You're GOOD, Sanji, you're so, so good and brave and strong and...and..."

Human. He was so starkly human. His mother's sacrifice had been a success. Like Bellemere had given her life for two girls who were worth more to her than life itself, Sora Vinsmoke had given everything she had so that her children wouldn't be remembered by the world as mistakes. He was living proof of the power of self sacrifice and the profound strength of a mother's love, just as she and her sister were.

Nami found she couldn't put all that into words that would make sense outside of her mind at the moment, she would have to tell him later when she was put back together again...when she had put him back together as well.

Her tears had only just begun, her words cut off by a blubbering wail as she leaned into him, her fists in his shirt loosening to lightly pound at his chest in frustration with herself. She buried her face in his shoulder and just cried it out while he stood stiffly with his back pressed against the counter from her weight being thrown into him so suddenly. He wasn't daring to move, she could tell, so she would have to move him....in due time. For now she just wanted to cry and inhale the smokey smell of him, getting second hand effects from his nicotine laced exhalations.

"Nami..." his voice almost startled her because it was so unexpected, and the touch of his hand in the center of her back was equally unexpected. Both were incredibly welcome, however. She gathered her courage and leaned back slightly to be able to look up at him.

"I'm so sorry. For what I said and for everything I've made you do since you got back! I can't believe how nasty I've been! I promise, I'll..."

Her words were cut short again, this time by his hand coming up to cover her mouth. He looked at her with a firm sort of expression, a quiet "shhhh" his only sound for quite a long while as he just seemed to study her closely. Boldly, she reached out her own hand to rest on his wrist and he removed the hand from her mouth, dropping it to his side as his eyes also lowered to stare at her shoulder to avoid her eyes.

"I forgive you. I'll always forgive you, no matter what, you know that." He said, and this time the tears and shaking made their presence known in his voice, making Nami's chest ache all over again.

"I know you will...you're just that way." She scoffed, but it wasn't in a bad way. Her voice was still unsteady and tight with the threat of more sobs breaking out.

"Luffy said something like that not long ago too..." Sanji seemed to be a bit dazed by his thoughts regarding her comment. "I guess you both meant it in a good way but I don't really get it."

"Good. Wouldn't want you getting too cocky about it." She teased, almost smiling for a second before she ducked her head and sighed, staring at his exposed collarbone from the stretched out neckline she'd caused. Absentmindedly, she placed a fingertip on the jut of bone and traced it gently, making the skin there twitch in response. It probably tickles, she mused silently. "Never change, okay?"

He swallowed hard, her eyes caught the movement of his Adam's apple and she knew his mind had finally been successfully distracted from his painful thoughts and had come to focus on the fact that they were so close and that she was touching him in a way she'd never done before.

"Okay." His reply was simple, and there was definitely a different sort of tightness in his voice this time. Not one of sadness being kept at bay, but something else entirely. "So....is my punishment over?"

"Consider your debt paid up." She assured him, stepping back to break whatever sort of spell was starting to fall over the both of them. He looked relieved but it took a good amount of time for his hand on her back to slide off, quickly occupied by the need to tap the ash from his long forgotten cigarette.

"Good. Because I need to sleep for a week to make up for all those night shifts and your crazy midnight cravings."

He glanced over his shoulder at the peels that were now a mess on the tray when he'd been so careful to place them so perfectly.

"Do you still want these? I'll make them for you, no problem."

"Sanji..."

"Hm?"

"Get some sleep."

Another order. His grin was back. "Of course, Nami-san."

[itsthemoofacewriting]

It’s heaven in your arms

Well, this is just a clusterfuck of emotions. Let me lead you down the path of grief and mourning only for it to end with a bed sharing trope.

I have no idea if there are even people that like the original trio together romantically, but I was really vibing, so hopefully I can convince some of my regular readers to take the plunge.

If any of my ZoNami readers are here, I’m doing the requests you all sent in – I swear!

I’m not sure what to expect from posting this, so I’ll say this once pre-emptively: if this isn’t your cup of tea, you know where the door is, please leave quietly.  

Summary: It may have been two years since Ace’s death but, for Luffy, sometimes it still felt like just yesterday. Or, sometimes, something beautiful can blossom from a place of hurt. Rating: T

You can also find this on AO3 and FFN.

Nami awoke, eyes burning from lack of sleep and mouth dry. It was still dark outside, and she grumbled to herself at waking up so early, but it was no use. She wouldn’t be able to go back to sleep until she had a glass of water. She swung her feet off the bed, clumsily trying to find her slippers before getting up. It was warm outside, so she didn’t bother with anything other than her pyjama top and shorts.

As annoying as it was to be awake so early, it was peaceful. It was a quick shuffle across the deck and into the kitchen, where she filled her glass hastily, already thinking about getting back into bed.

That last thing she expected when leaving the kitchen was the sight of Luffy sitting on the railing, facing the ocean with his feet kicking over the edge. Reckless as always it seemed.

“If you fell, no one would be around to save you,” She lectured.

His shoulders hunched; she’d surprised him it seemed, but he didn’t react as she’d expected. There was no carefree laughter or beaming grin as he told her not to be a worry wart. Instead, she received a muffled, “You’re up.”

Without looking at his face she didn’t know how to take that but his whole attitude was off, and it had alarm bells going off in her head. The comfort of her bed a distant memory now as she walked over to the railing to join him and settled her glass of water beside herself.

The words on the tip of her tongue vanished into the night air when she finally caught sight of his face. His eyes were red and puffy, his face pale despite his constant tan and drawn. It was an expression she’d never seen on his face. He looked defeated.

He looked tired.

“Do you want to talk about it?”

He shook his head, just as she’d expected him too and uttered out a quiet, “No.”

“That’s okay, but I’m going to sit here,” she told him. He could sit in silence if that was what he wanted, but she wouldn’t leave him, that wasn’t an option.

She took his hand in hers because whilst he may not want to speak, he’d always been a tactile person and she couldn’t just sit here and not do anything when there were tears still running down his face.

They sat in silence, only the sound of the waves hitting the ship could be heard with their thighs pressed snuggly against the others and his hand clasped in hers, a thumb absently roaming over the skin of his wrist. His tears had resided for the time being, only the stray one falling every now.

She felt like she was sitting with a deer, trying not to spook it because it felt like any wrong move would have him scampering away.

Well, that was until he pried his hand from hers and she was going to say something until his head feel heavily against her shoulder and an arm wrapped around her body. That was all she needed to let herself relax, no longer worried about scaring him away as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders to pull him closer.

It was another long moment of them sitting like that until he whispered in her shoulder, “It hurts.”

“What hurts?”

He was silent but the tears were back as she felt them soaking into her pyjama top.

“I had a bad dream.”

“Yeah? What about?” She encouraged softly.

“About him.” His voice cracked as he said it and his shoulders shook.

There was only one him she knew of.

“It played in a loop, and I couldn’t do anything.”

Although she was being fed the information in dribs and drabs, it wasn’t hard to piece it together. She waited for him to continue but the long pause told her he wasn’t going to.

She thought about what she’d want in that moment, if their roles were reversed, what she’d want from the other person sat with her, so she settled on, “I only met him briefly, tell me more about him. What was it like growing up with him?”

He was quiet and for a moment she didn’t think he was going to respond, that maybe that wasn’t what he wanted at all.

“He hated me when we were younger,” he said wetly, fighting through tears to talk. “I caused trouble, couldn’t fight and cried a lot. He called me cry baby all the time.”

“He didn’t when we met him in Alabasta though.” She remembered how he’d looked at Luffy, eyes full of adoration and voice warm as he asked the crew to look after Luffy for him.

He huffed out a laugh at her words, such a stark contrast to his normal boisterous laugh.

He told her everything. How Ace had gone from despising him to accepting him as a brother along with his other brother, Sabo, how they’d caused trouble together and had the best times together. How he’d made Luffy’s childhood a happy one.

It made her ache. Because as he talked, selfishly she thought about her own sister. How devasted she’d be to lose her, someone that felt like her other half since before she could remember, knew her better than anyone else, who she could talk to about anything. It was hard to explain a sibling relationship to someone without one, there was a different feeling to, you felt it in your core.

Mostly, she thought about how hollow she’d feel.

It felt like an unspoken rule that siblings were for life. You knew that parents were older and that they’d pass at some point in your life, but not your sibling. It felt like they were meant to be with you for life, that you’d grow old together and have each other’s backs no matter what to the very end.

She supposed that was part of the grief.

Although she didn’t know the ins and outs, even now Luffy was edging around his dream and what’d happened back then, she knew the key details - how Ace had jumped in front of him to save him. How Ace had died before his eyes. Even if she suspected there was more to that moment than what she knew, it was traumatic enough.

Another tangled chain to unwrap from the knotted ball of necklaces that was grief.

Ultimately, she didn’t need to know what the dream was about or what’d happened back then, because the picture she had in her mind was vivid enough and she knew how he felt. Watching someone slip away before your eyes, helpless as you watched them go and wishing you’d done something different.

Her heart bled for him as he spoke, words blurring into his tears, she could feel her own eyes prickling as sadness overflowed.

Hands clumsily wiped at her face and belatedly she realised Luffy had stopped talking. “I didn’t mean to make you cry,” he said.

Without thinking, she wiped his face in return. “It’s okay, I’m glad I get to share this with you.”

She cupped his face and she meant it as a soothing gesture, yet it seemed to have the opposite effect. Watching his face crumple before her eyes was so much worse than how she’d imagined it when his face had been buried in her shoulder. He was so expressive all the time that she shouldn’t really be surprised, his lips quivered and those big eyes scrunched as he tried to hold back his tears.

“I know I still have so much, and I should focus on that…”

“But that doesn’t make that little part feel any better?”

“Yeah.”

“I know. It’s not going to either.” He nodded glumly at her words, staying silent and she suspected it was because he couldn’t form words. “You love him. That’s not going to disappear no matter what happens.”

She continued because she needed to say it, to let him know this was okay before she the moment passed, and he locked this all away to deal with another night. “You’re allowed to mourn him, you’re allowed to feel sad without feeling guilty, but when it overwhelms you, tell one of us, okay?” She paused, thinking over her words, before adding, “And even when it doesn’t overwhelm you and you just want company, come find us.”

“Okay.” He sounded choked up, more so than before.

She brought him back into a firm hug, running her hands up and down his back, letting her words sink in and giving him a chance to speak or cry more if he wanted to.

His next words told her they were done for the time being.

“I don’t want to go back to sleep,” he said.

She didn’t have to ask why. She still woke up sometimes in the middle of the night, tears in her eyes as she relived all different versions of Bell-mère’s death, each worse than the last. She knew that he feared having to relive his worst nightmare over again or catching even a whisp of his brother behind closed eyelids, taunting him over the fact that that would be the only way he’d ever be able to see him again.

“I don’t either,” she lied smoothly, “We could raid the fridge-” Sanji would understand- “or I could show you a new card trick or we could go draw on Zoro’s face. He’s probably up in the crow’s nest and he sleeps like a log.”

Luffy grinned, it didn’t reach his eyes like it normally did but that was okay, it was an improvement on the solemn expression from before. “Usopp just bought new markers!”

They both turned at the sound of heavy footsteps and the very person they’d been planning to mess with was stood only a few steps away.

“Why do you two look guilty?” He looked suspiciously at them both.

Neither of them answered, but she saw the moment Zoro noticed Luffy’s face and took in his red, puffy eyes and worn expression. His demeanour changed instantly, he looked serious, and he didn’t say anything more as he joined them on the railing, pressing up to Luffy’s vacant side and taking his other free hand into his- he could probably feel that it was wet from Luffy’s tears.

The ocean lapped silently against the ship and whatever plans her and Luffy had made seemed to be put on hold as he stayed sat on the railing, but that was fine with her, she was happy to sit there with him in silent support.

“It should’ve been me,” Luffy finally spoke, voice sure but only a whisper.

Those were heavy words, she imagined how often that thought circled around in his head and how hard it must have been to finally say it out loud.

“That’s stupid,” Zoro said.

“Zoro,” she hissed. For his blunt words and because Luffy looked on the verge of tears, it made her heart crumble all over again.

“Ace loved you a lot and he didn’t do it for you to think that; he wouldn’t want that. It was his choice and he made it and he’d do it a hundred times over.”

He made a good point, she knew that, but a tough love speech felt too soon.

“Zoro’s not stupid all the time,” Luffy defended weakly, smile wobbly.

Maybe not.

“Oi.”

Nami shook her head, smiling slightly at their antics. “Unfortunately, I have to agree with you. Shall we agree it’s a 10% smart and 90% stupid?”

Zoro tried to look miffed, although it was betrayed by the smirk tugging at his lips. He knew what she was doing, trying to lighten Luffy’s spirits, so he let it slide.

“Well, we can’t draw on Zoro’s face now-” Zoro glowered at her- “but if you want an extra challenge, we could get Usopp or Sanji.” They were light sleepers; she knew he’d be up for the challenge.

Luffy smiled, nodding tiredly and stifled a yawn that had her and Zoro sharing a quick look between them.

“You can sleep with me if you want,” Zoro offered nonchalantly and Luffy perked up at that.

She should leave them to get on with it. They’d made their arrangements already and in the back of her mind, she knew she should, but Luffy’d told her so much, it felt callous to just palm him off. And maybe, somewhere deep down she didn’t like the thought of being left out. Maybe.

The words were out before she’d properly thought them through.

“You can both sleep in my bed.”

“Like a sleepover!” Luffy said and his eyes brightened, a shimmer of what normally resided there returning.

“It’s a one-time offer and no one tells Sanji!” Nami warned even though Luffy looked considerably lighter and Zoro was smirking at her. She didn’t doubt Zoro would store that away to use against Sanji later, but she’d deal with that then. And if he decided to blab, she’d then have the perfect opportunity to charge him, and he wouldn’t be able to say a thing.

The walk to her room was quiet, only the sounds of their shoes thumping against the deck with every step, getting louder and louder as they got closer to her room. She wondered if she’d regret this. What if she’d made it awkward? She should’ve just let Zoro and Luffy bunk together.

Opening the door felt heavy, like something awful would be waiting for her on the other side. Instead, there was just a dark, muted room to greet her and the awkwardness she felt doubled to the point she wondered if the other two felt it too. She wasn’t sure if she was thankful or not that Robin was still asleep, facing away from them.

All those thoughts were put to rest as Zoro and Luffy moved past her, seemingly more than comfortable with this arrangement than her. Zoro shucked off his boots and settled against the far side of the bed so his back faced the wall and Luffy kicked off his flip flops, his hat already sat safely on her bedside unit.

“Absolutely not,” Nami whispered fiercely, hands on hips and they both peered up at her quizzically. “I’m not sleeping on the edge only to wake up on the floor. Zoro, swap.”

“What, so I can wake up on the floor instead?”

“You can sleep anywhere!”

Luffy had snickered at their bickering, watching them go back and forth until he seemingly grew bored of that and stretched his arm out to wrap around her waist. As his arm snapped back, he dragged her with it, she collided with the both of them in her bed. Like a true rubber man, Luffy looked unbothered although she was fairly sure she’d kicked him, but Zoro wheezed behind her as she’d winded him with her elbow.

“That hurt!” Nami moaned.

“Think before you do that!” Zoro grouchily whispered.

“There we go, now we’re all cosy.” He ignored them both, nestling down into the bed as his arm reached across Nami to rest over onto Zoro.

“Luffy!” She squawked, rosy faced. “Move over! You have all that space!”

This was not what she’d had in mind when she’d invited them… into her bed. Although she didn’t have a massive bed, she’d thought they’d at least try to keep their distance, she hadn’t expected this. Luffy was so close she could feel his breath on her face and his hair brushed against her forehead, no doubt mingling in with her own strands. She could feel Zoro spooned behind her, his own arm outstretched across them both and she was only now just considering how appropriate her pyjama shorts were. Which was ridiculous, it was only those two.  

All of this didn’t feel right, they were there for Luffy, he should be the one in the middle not her. He should be the one squashed between them, safe and warm and feeling supported, not her. Yet one look at his face put all of that to rest. You could still tell he’d been crying; the puffiness would take a few hours to go down, but he looked relaxed, the tormented and weight in his expression gone.

He looked content.

And that was enough right now for her brain to shut off, thoughts pushed to the back for another day, and have her burying into the warmth from the two bodies next to her with the knowledge that everything would be okay for now.

----------------------------------

This was meant to be a one-shot, but it’s now a two parter at no one’s request. I’m writing/editing the second chapter right now; it’s on its way.  

I used to ship LuNami hard when I was younger, but I think I’ve lost my ability to write them romantically nowadays… unless you throw in Zoro and then it’s back on apparently.

I write and edit all my pieces by myself, so if there’s any errors, please excuse them.

Thanks for reading.

[missallsundayyy]

Breaking Boundaries

First oneshot for my first post here and there’s no better ship/pair i’d rather write than Nico Robin & Roronoa Zoro

Things were lively on the Sunny Go as usual. Franky was upgrading the canons on the ship, Chopper and Ussop were being...well...being them as usual. Luffy was bugging Sanji in the kitchen asking/whining when was lunch going to be served and in his words.

"foooooooood SANJIIIIIIIIIIIII!!" the famous straw hat captain yelled from the other side of the kitchen.

"SHUT UP YOU RUBBER GLUTTON"

Nami was focusing on the weather and the sea behavior, navigating the crew to their next destination whilst Brook was beside her asking if he could see her panties in which he received a punch that sent him flying through the ship's walls. Thus starting a fight with the shipswright that was just beside the wall that was destroyed.

"WATCH WHERE YOU LAND ASSHOLE!!!" Franky screamed out.

"Yohoho!! don't get your panties in a twist Franky-sannn"

Aside from all the chaos was the crew's infamous swordsman, Zoro whom was doing impossible training once again. Lifting weights that no humans could ever lift.

"890...891...892.."

He grunts out in training, muscles flexing, his body coated with sweat. He did this everyday at the same spot the moment the sun starts to rise until Sanji calls them for lunch. Not far from the green-haired man.....well in fact maybe 5metres away from him was the ship's beautiful archeologist Nico Robin. Seated as usual on her umbrella armchair with a book on hand. 

She was wearing her spaghetti strap purple tank top that did no effort to cover her large breast and a very small tight fitting jean shorts. It was a very hot day at that, she had put her hair up in a ponytail which was rare because usually she prefered her hair down. Even though it was scorching hot outside and she could just retreat into her room where it would definitely be cooler but it was out of habit that she situated herself here when she read.

She’s elated to be where she was right now. Doing what she loved and surrounded by nakamas that accepted her, cared for her, protected her and loved her. She would give her life 100 million times over for the Straw Hats without a second thought. Back at Enies Lobby she was afraid that that they would find her a burden, a thorn in the flesh even when they proved that they will fight the whole world fearlessly for her. Comparing then and now she was flabbergasted at how many things have changed. Everyone has gotten stronger, more matured. The bond Robin shared with the crew was strong that not even God can sever it, that she was certain for.

Her mind wandered everywhere and anywhere, she wasn't even focusing on the book she was reading anymore. She summarised everything in her head with a content look on her face.

The sounds of Zoro's grunting and counting snapped Robin back to reality, her eyes diverted to the green haired crew member. Her eyes shamelessly stared at his god like body that was now glistening in sweat due to the monstrous work out he does everyday. His muscles was amazing, his abs was rock hard and his chest looked like steel plates had been implanted in him. His face was fierce and focus, never losing concentration.

Zoro was a very very veryyy handsome man, that was what Robin had always thought even when she first joined the crew. She knew he was a very powerful man and a dangerous one at that, the crew was blessed to have such interesting and indestructible members and Roronoa Zoro was one of them. He had many cons to him...well according to Nami and Sanji's list. He sleeps too much, he was too direct with his words so more often than not he always comes off as an "asshole". He drinks too much when he isn't sleeping or training and to top the icing on the cake, he couldn't find his way to the ship's toilet even if his bladder depended on it.

Robin however found him to be interesting as hell and even charming most times. How he was always the calm one amongst all of them and he was a very wise man that stick by his words. He was a strong man with honour and pride. He will no doubt be the type to keep a promise even if will be his demise. Robin didn't know she had a type until she met Zoro, the more time she has with the swordsman the larger her attraction for him grew.

Having a lover has never came across her mind, not that she wasn't interested in intimate relations before, it just never came up until she found herself glancing at him more than she should. Also the automatic position of their area happened to be beside each other every day so there was not much of a choice in that matter. She snapped back yet again to reality still staring at the handsome swordsman, she wouldn't admit it but internally she was swooning over his very very shredded body.

"Oi oi Robin, your staring is bothering me. You should read at your room today, your face is red from the weather right now."  Zoro called out to Robin who was unintentionally caught gawking at him although being the dense man he was, he of course would have not though that she was checking him out.

Zoro had placed all this training equipments down and was now walking towards the self fantasising historian that still had her eyes glued onto him. He walked a few steps towards Robin and stood beside her, taking her lemonade drink right from her side table and gulping all of it down with greed-thirst sounds.  This was another normal thing between them, she would have her drink but she would never drink any of it because before she could, he would always finish it up unless she had coffee. He never did understood how she could swallow the damn bitter beverage. She also was starting to think that subconsciously she would bring the drink for him instead of her.

"Zoro-kun. Sorry for bothering your training  but I don't mind a little heat today and besides the weather has been quite gloomy these past weeks, don't you agree?" Robin held her face with her palm, her usual signature posture. She now sat upright never breaking her stare.

"Rain or shine won't hinder me from my training." Zoro stated simply.

"Fufufu, yet my staring has disturbed your workout?" Robin teased him.

"Tch. You've been doing that a lot lately woman." he turned his head away, folding his arms. Ever since the crew reunited after being seperated for two years, Zoro had noticed Robin's change the most. She had gotten stronger, wiser and more matured in many different aspects.

She would tease him or outsmart him in their little chats which irate the man but in a good way.

"I was thinking if I could company you on watch today if you don't mind." Robin asked hopefully.

Zoro turned his head back to her "Sure. You can do can do whatever you want woman. Let's go to the kitchen already, bet that love cook will start yelling for us anytime soon." he was already walking towards the kitchen but in a pace that told her that he would be walking with her and not just leaving her like that. She smiled and followed him.

"ROBIN CHWANNN! You're looking veryyyyy SEXYYY TODAY!! The lunch I have prepared for you today is just as hot and spicy as you are!!!" Sanji greeted Robin that had walked in with Zoro whom by the way Sanji had not scoop his share onto a plate yet.  Robin smiled at the flirtatious cook.

"That's very kind of you cook-san, this looks delicious. As always your culinary skills are impressive." Robin replied politely, frankly only Robin would acknowledge Sanji's aggressively manic compliments. 

"Tch. Stupid love cook." Zoro muttered under his breath which didn't went unheard by the cook of course.

"What??? YOU WANNA GO ASSHOLE?"

"I WON'T WASTE MY TIME WITH THE LIKES OF YOU"

"YOU'RE JUST JEALOUS THAT ROBIN IS COMPLIMENTING ME INSTEAD OF YOU"

"WHY WOULD I BE JEALOUS OF YOU, YOU'RE A BIGGER CLOWN THAN THAT RED NOSE BUGGY"

The fight between the two men continued while the crew watched on amused, nothing new on the ship.

"HEY LUFFY THAT'S MY FRUIT PUNCH DON'T DRINK IT"

"Cmmonnnnnn Chopper give me some, I'm lazy to go refill..."

Chopper and Luffy both had their hands on the cup that was filled with the cool drink and they both were playing tug rope with the cup and well unfortunately for them the cup had tipped and all of its contents is now spilling at the person that was sitting in the middle of them. That person was......Robin.

*SPLASH*

The room was now silent, Sanji and Zoro's bickering was on hold because of the light spill sound that interrupted everyone.

"Oh shit.." Franky muttered

The red beverage was now seeping through Robin's tank top. Her chest and thighs was now covered with the sweet drink and it was dripping. Robin looked down at her now soiled clothing.

"Oh my.." was all she said.

"Robinnn....im sorry!! I didn't..we didn't mean to ruin your clothes!!" Chopper started exclaiming, feeling guilty. "OI LUFFY! This is your fault you know!! APOLOGISE TO ROBIN NOW!"

Luffy had one hand behind his head, scratching while having a goofy grin "Sorry Robin it was an accident...please don't be mad"

"SERIOUSLY. Why can't the men in this crew behave like proper men in FOR ONCE! You guys are barbaric and I don't know how two beautiful women like me and and Robin got stuck with you guys!!" This time the screaming and yelling was now coming from the ship's navigator.

Robin wasn't mad, in fact she enjoyed all their shenanigans. The crew made life fun, they make her feel alive and everyday she will always have a smile on her face. "It's okay Luffy its okay Chopper. I will go and change into a new shirt." she said with a laughter.

"Well there you go Nami, you heard Robin. She's not mad so I don't see why you're all worked up." Franky joined in to which he received a death glare from the money obsessed pirate.

In the midst of the whole conversation Zoro had been staring at Robin's wet stained shirt accident. Everyone was too busy bickering with each other they had failed to notice that the water just made Robin's voluptuous figure even more prominent. The outline of her huge breast could be seen through the god damn tank top and the fruit punch was still dripping down her cleavage and most of it had splashed onto her thick thighs.

He didn't know what he was doing but he liked what he was seeing. Robin was a beautiful woman and he knew that. She had the perfect curves and her assets were anything but small. She had matured into a sexy woman and he could never deny that. The sight that she had unintentionally presented him with was very fucking pleasing to his eyes. His eyes glued to her soft skin and the way the water would drip down her cleavage because she was laughing and causing her chest to move tentalizingly. He knew she wasn't doing it on purpose but she was sexy without even trying. He shook his head and tried to clear the dirty thoughts that was now forming in his mind 'Why the hell am I thinking about her like that' his mind yelled at him.

"Well excuse me, I am going to take a bath since the punch has made my body all sticky now." Robin stood up and walked towards the door. Sanji on the other hand had knock both Luffy and Chopper's head while yelling something like 'Look what you guys did!' 'Robin-chan's lunch is ruined' 'assholes'

-BOOOOOOOOOMMM-

A loud crash was heard 1 minute after Robin had exited the kitchen. Zoro and Sanji both had dashed out of the door in a fighting stance-run. 

"Whats' going on now!!" Nami yelled.

"Looks like Luffy fell asleep" Franky muttered in half disbelief and half lazed tone.

"ROBIN CHANNN!! ARE YOU OKAY?" Sanji yelled frantically.

Zoro had drawn his katana out ready to slice anyone whom had dared to attack their ship and more importantly Robin.

"So this is the infamous Strawhat crew everyone has been talking about?? You don't seem much if i managed to cuff your deliciously beautiful crewmate here. If i know you guys had such a sexy pirate lady, we would have attacked you sooner!" The malicious voice came from Captain Deck from the Sink Pirates; notorious for sinking every ship they come across with. He was however not interested in woman and was quick to carry Robin and throwing her off the Sunny Go to everyone's horror.

"ROBIN NNNN!!" Chopper and Nami's voiced chorus together,

"ROBIN -CHWANNNN! YOU SHITTY BASTARD HOW DARE YOU TOUCH THE LADIES OF THIS SHIP I WILL POUND YOU UNTIL YOUR INSIDES COME OUT ASSHOLE!!" Sanji shouted with fire engulfing his whole body.

Zoro of course had already jumped in right after Robin was thrown into the sea. His first priority was definitely saving his nakama. Slicing every last one of his enemy would later be the second priority. He dived deep and because he immediately jump in right when Robin was thrown in, she hadn't sink too far for his vision. She was still conscious, eyes wide with shocked with everything that has transpired. He could understand her fear, you can be the strongest fighter with the best abilities but its all over if you get thrown into the water. Her hands was desperately reaching for Zoro. She knew she was safe, drowning in the sea or not, she had her nakama protecting her and always having her back.

He grabbed Robin's hand and pulled her into his body and quickly swam back up in full speed. When they reached the surface, he found himself swimming to an island, the Sunny Go and his crewmates were no where in sight. Now he was just confused, how the hell did he got all the way here now. He now carried Robin bridal style whilst walking on shore since she was weakened by the effects of the sea water.

He lay her down on the grass part of the island and stood up to survey their foreign surroundings.

"Oi woman you okay?" he asked her with concern although he wasn't facing her. Robin who now had herself up on her feet.

"Thank you Zoro-kun, i'm better now." Robin said smiling even if he wasn't looking to see it. "However, seems like we're stranded in here. How did you find this island?" she was already walking around surveying the flowers, sand, grass and anything that might tell her where they were. He scratched the back of his head, "I don't know how we end up here, my priority was only getting you out of the sea and next thing i know, i got us here." he said with a tone of frustration.

'ara...so this is how he looks like whenever we get seperated' Robin's amusing thoughts caused her to laugh behind him. He snapped his head to her "What's so funny woman" to which Robin smile "Nothing. Lets explore this island together, i'm sure Luffy and the others are already nearby." she suggested to which Zoro just grunted in agreement.

The both of them then ventured into the thick jungle of the island.

Meanwhile back at the Sunny Go.

"Geez you can definitely count on Zoro to be lost even when the ship was right above him." Franky grumbled while the crew set sailed for the island Ussop had spotted.

"That shitty asshole took Robin-chwann away! IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME THAT SAVED HER AND WOULD PROBABLY BE ON THAT ISLAND WITH A VERY WET RO-" Sanji fainted from nose-bleed before he could finish his sentence.

"SANJIIIIII!!!" Chopper ran towards his perverted nakama.

"Leave him to die Chopper, he propably don't mind dying" Nami said while shaking her head.

"YOSH! FULL SPEED AHEAD TO THAT MEAT ISLAND MEN!" Luffy yelled to his crewmates.

"Oi oi what do you mean meat island" Ussop replied, "And we can leave stupidity to our captain. Zoro and Robin are missing and there he goes thinking about food" he finished leaving Nami and Chopper nodding their heads vigorously. Luffy laughed "Don't worry! They're strong and i'm not worried."

-BACK TO THE UNKNOWN ISLAND-

"Perhaps the plants here spit poison that could kill you in a second or maybe the soil might swallow you whole the moment you step on it." Robin said voicing her thoughts outloud.

"Oi Robin stop saying things like that." Zoro chastised the historian for always saying dark things.

"Fufufu sorry Zoro-kun." Robin giggled into her palm. 

"By the way......” he started “Robin,i'mgladyou'refineafter2years."

Zoro managed to choke all the words out as fast as he could. He was not one with sweet words but he somehow felt that before the seperation he was very cold with Robin out of all the members of the crew.

It had to do with the whole ‘Miss All Sunday’ business but now when he looked at her, it was as if everything in the past didn't matter anymore.Robin on the other hand was taken aback by his words, she would be lucky to get a grunt out of the swordsman but he was initiating a conversation first and to top that off, he was telling her how he was glad that SHE was okay.

"I'm happy to hear that. You've grown handsomely in two years Zoro-kun" She replied him with a genuine smile. His face instantly reddened from embarasssment. There she goes again, he thought. Always saying things like that and now he looks like a cat just bit his tongue.

"W..we..well you'vegrownbigtoO!"

Robin laughed aloud "Are you saying that i’m fat Zoro-kun?" she stopped abruptly nearly making him crash behind her.

"What!" he panicked. Now these are one of her antics to get him all flustered.

"You said i've grown big, so does that mean I’m fat to you Zoro-kun?" She asked him with an innocent smile, teasing him was her favourite things to do.

"You know what I mean woman." Zoro grunted frustratedly, face still heated up. She? Fat? Farrr from it he thought. Her figure was amazing, perfect if he may be so bold to say.

"So after 2years of not seeing me, thaaat....is the only thing you noticed? I think cook-san has influenced you abit." This has got to definitely get THE reaction Robin was waiting for.

“IM NOTHING LIKE THAT SHITTY BASTARD OF A COOK AND YOU KNOW IT WOMAN!!" Robin laughed at his predictable reaction. "I'm joking Mr Swordsman." And there the nicknames comes again, this woman knew how to push his buttons well.

Then Robin did the unthinkable, she put her hands on her waist and came closer to Zoro and with a low sultry voice with a pose that would drive Sanji into his grave from nosebleed.

"So am I big enough or is there anything else I can change....for you Zoro-kun" Robin said suggestively. She have to admit whilst she finally have people to call her nakama she needed more. She wants that intimate attention just like every  woman. Intimacy wasn’t something she even had time for in the past, it never crossed her mind to romance with men. Now that she’s comfortable and know she has a place to call home, why the hell not.

Now he was just as red a beet, he didn't know why Robin was being flirty with him. She was usually the quiet one, calm, collected and only commented on things when it was necessary. Then again she was the only woman ironically that he didn’t mind invading his personal space. She and him was always in the same room in the ship every damn time and it wasn’t even planned nor did they ever agreed to always have each other’s back. He had always protected Robin, he would be there, ready to cut her enemies. Just like on sky island and fishmen island, as long as he’s around her he will put his life on the line for her

It wasn’t that he wouldn’t do the same for the crew but when he does save her, he feels something for her, he don’t know what he felt but he felt his pride and ego semi boosted from it. It was as if he wanted to impress her and show off how strong he was when she was around him. Maybe because all her life she was used to everyone betraying her or maybe she never had anyone protecting her. If she needed him to tell her that she wanted his protection, he would proudly declare that he will always protect and care for her.

Since she was graciously being so near him, his good eye clearly did not miss everything Robin had to offer. She was obviously testing the waters like this and eventhough he wasn't THAT type of man but he will be THAT if she wants it so bad. He will gladly play along with her game afterall he didn't enjoy being dominated like this.

Zoro grabbed Robin's waist roughly and pressed her figure with his hard and he brought his mouth against her ears.

"You better stop that Robin because i don’t think I can stop myself after this " Zoro growled with his grip tightening on her waist and back. That was an indefinite warning, he was ready to drop the whole ‘nakama’ thing and fuck her right there if she insisted on being a minx. Amazing that they had the whole island to themselves, amazing that his bad sense of direction got just the both of them alone, amazing that his crew wasn’t here to interrupt this moment and lastly Nico Robin was and amazing woman. His mind was flooded with thoughts of her and he thought he was going insane.

“I don’t want you to stop Zoro.” Her voice was filled with want, need, lust and when he looked into her eyes he knew that she only wanted HIM and he was the only one she trusted her body with. Right now her eyes was an open book and he could read every thoughts she had going through in her head.

Mentally he was battling a war, he shouldn’t be indulging in this but he knew he wanted this so bad he could kill someone.

 “Not here Robin.” It had took all of his will power to seperate him and Robin, all that lust and need. Trust him he really wanted to take her right there and then but... “Fufufu, that’s very considerate and sweet of you.”

[eirist]

Chance Encounter

1: PROLOGUE

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.

Rating: T

Note: I’m going to deviate from my usual fluffy stuff. I was browsing my draft collection, because there is a lot of pending write-ups and this one’s been there for far too long… since 2017 to be exact. Procrastinate much.

This was originally planned as a two-chaptered fic. And I’m hoping I stick to that.

Summary: There was a weird sensation pulling at her midriff; followed by a loud, sucking sound before she was suddenly plunged into darkness. 

“Watch out!”

The shrill sound of Usopp screaming reached her ears. Nami watched, horrified, as each of her nakama evaded the eerie, almost dark purplish light that was heading towards them.

She stood, rooted on the spot. Her body failing to move even as her brain kept commanding it to shift out of the way or she’s going to take a direct hit.

Her brown-colored orbs widened with the realization that she’s not going to make it in time. Her hands tightened their grip on her weapon as the light advanced towards to her.

She heard Luffy’s voice shouting her name, as well as the wailing cry of their cook calling out for her. She didn’t understand why in that split second before the light hit her, her senses seemed to have become acute.

There was Robin’s loud gasp, Chopper bursting into tears, Franky screaming ‘strong right’ and Brook yelling Yahazu Giri.

Her ears picked up the sound of someone running towards her. Her eyes tried to search for the source of the sound. Somehow in the back of her mind, she already knew who was responsible for it.

She stared haplessly as Zoro tried to reach her in time to save her from the damning light. His face was taut with concentration as he tried to move faster towards her.

“Nami!” He shouted, one sword-less hand stretching out to her.

Surprisingly, she was able to lift her own towards him.

“Zoro…” she whispered his name, vainly trying to reach out to him.

 But he was too late.

The light hit her. It enveloped her whole body, her whole being—warm and unexpectedly soothing.

There was a weird sensation pulling at her midriff; followed by a loud, sucking sound before she was suddenly plunged into darkness.

The Straw Hat pirates stared, aghast, as their orange-haired navigator suddenly disappeared right before their very eyes.

-------------------------

​It was Monkey D. Luffy’s idea, as usual, to explore the unknown island where they just dropped anchor.

After two weeks of nothing but the ocean in their sight, the exuberant captain was at the end of his expectedly short rope to have his ‘land adventure time’—much to the chagrin of everyone who knows that Luffy’s so-called adventures usually ends with all of them knee-deep in trouble.

After the kaizoku bento was distributed, the crew separated into groups: one to survey the island, one to look for the town and restock their supplies and one to stop Luffy’s idiocy from rampaging. Brook volunteered to guard the ship and Sanji promised to relieve him once he’s able to get some food shopping done.

​All’s well until the survey and babysitter groups ran into some weird, crazy guy who has the strange ability to make anyone or anything disappear. How Luffy came across the downright creepy fellow while exploring the mountain’s forest… no one can answer. After all, said captain has an unusual knack for attracting trouble everywhere he goes.

It was a good thing though that for such a rather powerful ability, their enemy seems to be truly unaware of its true potential. For he was just randomly flinging purplish circle of lights, screaming that they leave him alone or he’ll make them all disappear with his power.

Usopp concluded that it was probably because the guy’s got too many loose screws in his head. After all, he was living hermetically in an isolated cave on top of the island’s mountain.

The others, sensing that something was amiss when both groups failed to return to the Sunny after a few hours and seeing the tell-tale signs of a battle going on up in the mountains made their way to the skirmish.

It should’ve been an easy battle, but someone had to deliberately irritate the hell more out of the enemy by dousing him with seawater.

Much to the crew’s amazement, the only effect of the water was to vex their opponent more as he hurled much larger circle of lights at them. This was not a devil fruit user as they had originally believed.

A surprised gasp came from Robin and she went on to explain that while visiting the town’s library earlier, she read something about an old island legend regarding an accursed man who has the power to make people and things disappear.

“Not a devil fruit Robin-chan?” Sanji asked as he avoided another light aimed at his direction.

Robin shook her head. “Unfortunately, no,” she answered. Behind her, Usopp and Chopper dove at the same time behind a bush to evade a light whooshing towards them. "And here I thought it was just a legend." The excitement in her voice was evident despite them being under attack.

“So it’s a mystery power!” Luffy exclaimed excitedly, holding onto his hat firmly as he jumped randomly to escape the lights directed at him.

“You can say so, sencho-san” Robin replied smiling. She hid behind a tree as another round light whizzed past her.

“So how do we beat him?” Zoro growled. He launched a Pondo Ho towards one of the lights. Both his slash and the light dissipated out of thin air. He sidestepped to elude another and promptly collided with the navigator.

“Zoro!” Nami chastised him frowning. “Watch where you’re going!”

“Well don’t just stand there like tree woman!”

“Marimo!” Sanji screamed at him. “How dare you hit Nami-swan!”

“Uruse ero-cook!”

“Shitty swordsman!” The cook seethed.

“I can’t believe you’re getting lost even here.” Nami snapped, fighting the urge to bonk his thick head with her Clima-tact. She roughly pulled at his green coat just as another light flew past the swordsman’s left side.

“Thanks but no thanks witch,” the green-haired lad scowled at her.

“Hey I just saved you! Gratitude please!” Nami retorted. Another light soared towards them and Zoro wasted no time in grabbing her around the waist and pulling her behind a tree.

“Now we’re even.” He muttered condescendingly as they hid behind the trunk. Nami huffed in response and they watched as Franky leaped at the bushes beside them, hollering ‘super’ as he dodged an attack sent towards him.

“Ok this is getting way too long!” Sanji complained.

“Took the words right out of my mouth, swirly!” Zoro sneered, drawing out another katana. Nami backed away from him as the he stepped out of their hiding place.

“Did not, baka kenshin!” The cook yelled back.

“Usopp,” Nami called the long-nosed sniper. “Long-range attacks!”

Usopp nodded. With their enemy’s ability, it poses a much lesser risk to hit him with flying attacks rather than meet him head on.

“Luffy, Sanji-kun!” Nami warned both the cook and the captain not to attack the enemy.

“Hai, Nami-swaaan!”

“But Namiiii…” Their captain childishly protested. Bored from jumping too much, he landed beside the navigator with a pout.

Nami pulled his ear. “Baka! What are you going to do if you get hit with that light and you disappear?!”

“Let the others attack him first Luffy,” Robin said, appearing behind them suddenly. Crossing her arms in front of her, she said, “Franky!”

“Aaww!” Franky, who felt hands pushing him up, jumped from the bushes where he landed earlier, striking a super pose to indicate the he's a-ok.

“Brook!” Sanji bellowed, not seeing the skeleton anywhere near the vicinity.

“Right here Sanji-san,” Brook answered, way up on one of the trees near them.

“Damn it you idiot where you hiding there all the time?!”

“Yohohohoho!”

“Chopper where are you?!” Nami looked around hoping the doctor did not get hit by those troublesome light their enemy was bombarding them.

“Here Nami!” The little reindeer raised a hoof; hopping down from where was currently perched atop of Usopp’s head. He hopped down to stand beside the sniper.

With all the Mugiwara crew accounted for. It was time for a counter-attack.

“Weapons left!” Franky hollered just as Usopp simultaneously released one of his Kabuto bombs.

“Zoro!” Nami yelled.

“Way ahead of you woman!” The swordsman answered, placing Wado Ichimonji between his teeth. He released a much powerful version of his previous Pondo Ho.

The concurrent attack hit their enemy head on. There was an explosion and an ear-piercing scream of pain as smoke filled the spot where the man was standing.

Usopp winced. “Ooops. I think we overdid it.”

“Super overdid it.” Franky agreed.

Sanji nonchalantly shoved a cigarette into his mouth as he studied the scene. “Yeah you all did.” He muttered with a flick of his lighter. “He’s just a normal human being and you all went all out to attack him.”

“Shut up shit cook,” Zoro snarled at his direction. “Better than just standing there and doing nothing.”

“Say that again shit head!”

“Both of you shut your traps.” Nami immediately stepped between the two men. “Now is not the time for yapping at each other.”

“Tch.”

“Hai Nami-swaaan!”

The others ignored them and continued staring at the still smoke-filled area, waiting.

Out of the blue, another light flew towards their direction, bigger than before.

“Everyone scatter!” Luffy commanded, stretching his arm towards a random tree limb and making a grab for one of the nearest crew member, who unluckily was Usopp.

The crew scattered out instantly. “Heeeelp!” The sharpshooter screeched as he was lifted mid-air.

“Kyaaaah!” Nami shrieked.

“Move! Move! You’ll get hit!” Zoro’s voice reached her ears and she bounded towards her left blindly. She felt his arm grabbed her by the waist, hauling her up and tucking her under his arm. Nami was in too much panic to even care that he was lugging her like a sack of potatoes.

“Nami-swan!” Sanji squawked when he saw the green-haired dumbass carelessly carting off his favorite lady brusquely. “Put her down you boorish, moronic marimo! Nami-swaaaan! Come into my arms so that I can protect you! Ack!” He nearly tripped when he accidentally collided with Brook, who landed beside him, when he tried to dodge the light.

“Ah Sanji-san. You must not lose concentration lest you get hit!” The skeleton reminded him as he swept the cook into his bony arms and effortlessly leapt towards another tree.

“Brook! You shitty skeleton! Put me down!”

“Yohohoho! No.”

“Nami-saaaan!” He yelled again when he and the musician landed safely on a sturdy tree branch.

“Somebody shut him the hell up!” Zoro roared from somewhere down.

“Urusai!” Nami can be heard screeching after. “Can’t you see we are in the middle of battle?!” She, along with Chopper (whom she didn’t see earlier was also tucked under Zoro’s other arm), are hiding with the swordsman behind a thick group of trees. As for Robin and Franky, she failed to see where they took cover.

“LEAVE ME ALONE!” Their enemy was screaming as he continuously launched purplish lights at them. Nami squeezed Chopper towards her, ducking her head lower as the reindeer hugged her back just as forcefully.

“Careful! He is going out of control!” Franky cautioned from afar, exactly where, no one can pinpoint.

Nami heard Zoro made a tch-ing sound as he carefully peered from behind the tree trunk to observe what was happening. From up a random tree Usopp was complaining, “Ouch! Don’t push me! Luffy!”

Then he yelped. The light hit the tree where he and Luffy were. Luckily, the rubber man was able to swing himself to the safety of another but had forgotten to take Usopp with him.

The sharpshooter did not hesitate to dive down the ground before the tree they were at disappeared completely.

Everyone held their breath as Usopp was suddenly rolled towards the refuge of some thick shrubbery by Robin’s bloomed arms.

“Robin!” A sob can be heard from under the foliage. “Thank you!”

“You’re welcome.”

“Shi shi shi! Sorry Usopp.” Luffy apologized sheepishly as he leapt down to where Usopp was lying prone.

“Temee Luffy! You idiot, you forgot me!”

“Everyone look out!” Robin cautioned as another light surged towards them.

One by one the trees and shrubberies were disappearing as the purple light hit them.

“Damn it!” Zoro suddenly swore when this time it was their hiding place that vanished. He grabbed Nami’s arm, roughly yanking her up.

“Zoro!”

“Move Nami!” He pushed her forward. “Chopper head towards those trees!”

“Hai!” Chopper jumped from Nami’s arms and change to his heavy point. He grabbed the navigator and made a dash towards where Zoro was pointing.

“Chopper! You could’ve change into your walk point!” Nami protested.

“Eeeh?!”

“Too late! Just go! Go!”

From behind them, Luffy was now telling off the enemy.

“Oi ossan! Stop throwing those mystery lights on us!”

But the man was oblivious. He was only focused in eliminating them out of his sight.

“That’s it! Gomu gomu no…”

“Luffy stop!” Almost everyone shouted.

“Pistol!”

Luffy’s rubber fist collided with the man’s face, sending him flying a good four feet away.

“LUFFY!” They all gaped as the man lay sprawled on the ground, seemingly unconscious.

“Yosh!” Their captain declared with a nod, crossing his arms and looking absolutely pleased with himself.

“Well that put a stop to—” Brook’s voice trailed off when the man stood up, looking totally unaffected by Luffy’s punch.

Usopp let out a whimper. “Is it me or he looks angrier than ever?”

No one answered. Because no one can.

For the man suddenly let out an enraged scream as huge purple orbs appeared all around him. He swung his arm with all his might, casting all of them towards the pirates.

“WATCH OUT!!!” Usopp screamed.

-------------------------

Zoro stared at the empty space in front of him.

His hand was still extended, his fingers still poised to grab the woman who was not there any longer.

Just a few inches more…

Yet he was not able to reach her in time.

“Nami!!!!”

Somewhere from behind him, their captain screamed.

[psychedelic-ink]

Easy Prey // Among Us AU

Pairing:  Vinsmoke Sanji x fem!reader

Genre: Angst/horror (kinda not really) NSFW

Word Count: 1982 k

Warnings: Blood, murder, face fucking 

Summary: Traveling in space can be hard, especially if one of your crewmates has been replaced by a parasitic shapeshifter. One by one the crew members are being found dead and in the end identifying the imposter is up to you.

“Sanji I really don’t think we should be doing this…” 

Your skin burned as his hands greedily explored every crevice of your body. His breath was warm and damp on your neck, nibbling on the soft flesh and leaving his marks as his hands cupped your breasts. Silent moans left you, your mind now feeling numb, you tried to remember how the two of you ended up in the dark corner of the electrical room. 

“Why shouldn’t we be doing this?” he whispered, his voice dripping with lust. “We might die at any moment shouldn’t we celebrate that we’re alive?”

His voice was like warm honey, you couldn’t say no to him. Everything he was doing to you just felt so good, your heart threatened to leap out of your chest as he lifted up the upper part of your pink suit, were you really going to go with this? While there was an imposter among the crew? So many had already died, you could be next maybe he was right.

Sanji’s head dipped in the valley of your breasts, planting open mouthed kisses he took your right nipple in your mouth. You threw your head back and shivered. The inside of his mouth was warm, his tongue went in circles around your sensitive nub. You let out shaky breaths as you wrapped his blond hair around your fingers. He hissed when you pulled his hair, your nails dug in his scalp. His mouth felt so good on you, Sanji bit, licked and pulled your nipple, driving you absolutely crazy. 

He parted away from you, he had a smug grin plastered on his face. A grin that made your heart skip a beat, your face felt warm and you averted your eyes. He placed his hands on your shoulders and pushed you down, you knew what he wanted and you were happy to deliver. 

You stared at the bulge that was visible from the outside of his blue suit. Momentarily your eyes widen, licking your lips, your hands fiddled with the zipper. Sanji took in a sharp breath when you wrapped your fingers around his throbbing cock. He was already leaking with precum, gingerly you licked the tip, tasting him. You enjoyed the bitterness he left in your mouth, you wrapped your lips around the tip, your tongue going in circles. You were enjoying the way he groaned as you continued to taste him. 

Your breath hitched when Sanji placed both hands behind your head and pushed your forward. Feeling his cock at the back of your throat made you gag, he seemed to enjoy this since you could hear him let out loud moans. Your eyes watered, Sanji snapped his hips, thrusting into your mouth as if he was fucking your pussy. Spit mixed with precum dribbled down from your chin. You tried to relax your throat but he was giving you no room to breathe. His hips continued to mercilessly snap forth and back. Your chin ached, despite your mouth being strained you couldn’t help but moan as he fucked your throat. You felt wetter with each thrust. 

“-ah fuck, your mouth feels so good,” he panted. “You like it don’t you? Being used like a fleshlight?”

With half lidded eyes, you looked up to him and groaned when you saw that he was staring down at you. He wrapped your hair around his fingers and buried himself deep into your mouth, he came right down your throat. 

Sanji’s cum tasted bitter and felt thick as it slid down your throat. His hand held you in place as he continued to splurt his seed into you. Not wanting it to go to waste, hungrily, you swallowed every bite. When he finally released you, you coughed and took in deep breaths. 

You looked back at him only to see him smirking down at you, his eyes dark by lust, you knew he was far from done. 

That is until the alarm went off. The alarm that you feared the most. The alarm that signalled that someone was found dead. 

Lowering your helmet back down, you glanced at Sanji. For a moment his eyes flashed a hint of annoyance. But he was quick to hold your hand and pull you towards the cafeteria, you dismissed the look as your paranoia playing tricks on you. A soft smile tugged at your lips. You were happy that he was with you. 

When the two of you arrived your heart stopped. Only Nami,Usopp and Robin sat around  the table. Nami was biting her lip clearly trying not to break down then and there. Usopp looked pale and was shaking. Robin seemed calm as always but she was clearly bothered as she didn’t look at you. 

“I-I saw Zoro,” he whispered as he made eye contact with you. “He was impaled.” 

“İmpaled?” you asked, trying to wrap your mind around it. 

Your legs trembled and you were hardly able to take a seat. Zoro… he was gone, along with Luffy, Chopper, Franky and Brook. They were all gone. 

“Where?” Sanji asked, breaking the silence. 

“He was in medbay.” Nami answered. 

“I was with Nami.” Robin said. “Where were you Sanji?”

“I was with y/n.” 

“T-That’s true.” 

Why were you hesitating? It was the truth. Fear engulfed your heart as the conversation continued. 

“That means only Usopp was alone then?”

“W-Wait!” Usopp stuttered. “Don’t look at me! I’m the one who reported it besides we don’t know when he was killed.” 

“I just asked a simple question.” you could feel the smugness radiating from Sanji. “Why are you suddenly so on edge?”

“Because you’re clearly blaming me!” Usopp shouted. 

“Robin asked a simple question and I just stated a fact. You were alone weren’t you?”

“I...was.” 

“Well after that outburst I vote that Usopp is the impostor.” 

“I..agree with Sanji.” 

“Nami?!” 

You hated how Usopp genuinely sounded and looked hurt. You couldn’t believe that it was him. But maybe it was?

“I think that Sanji is the impostor.” Robin said. 

You felt your blood freeze when she said that. Sanji squeezed your hand reassuringly, snapping you out of your shock momentarily. 

“I think it’s him too!” Usopp shouted, crossing his arms in front of him. 

“Then that leaves only y/n.” Nami said, looking directly at you.

All eyes turned to you. Usopp was sweating and Sanji just seemed a tad bit nervous. Darkness fell upon you. Who would you choose? Your friend or your lover? Which one was the imposter? Sanji was with you the whole time. Sanji’s thumb grazed the top of your hand, you could feel the warmth he radiated. He felt so secure, so safe. You just wanted him to hold you and never let go. 

“Do I have to choose?” you asked. 

“Yes.” Nami’s voice was ice cold. 

Swallowing you looked down at the table. You felt cold. 

“Usopp,” you took in a deep breath. “Usopp is the impostor.”

“What!?” he screamed. You bit your bottom lip, it felt as someone was squeezing your heart. 

“You heard her,” Sanji’s voice made you shiver, it even sounded colder then Nami’s. He stood up, ready to kick Usopp out. “Get off the ship impostor.” 

“N-No! It’s not me!” 

Usopp’s pleads didn’t stop Sanji from grabbing him and throwing him out. All of you watched as he wiggled in the endless voice of space soon to be motionless. You couldn’t look much longer and buried your face into Sanji’s chest. Nami touched your shoulder. 

“We should go and do the repairs.” she said, clearly starting to regret her decision. 

You slowly nodded. Sanji followed Nami to the navigation, you were going to tag along but you were stopped, when you turned you noticed that Robin had held your hand. 

“You made a mistake.” she simply said and left you. 

A chill went down your spine among hearing those words. But you knew she was wrong. There was no way you sent Usopp to his death by claiming that he was an impostor. Your stomach churning you went to navigation. Your hands felt cold and sweaty at the same time. You felt absolutely sick. 

“Y/N RUN!”

With full force Nami bumped into you. Knocking out the breath in your lungs the two of you fell down. You took in a deep breath, trying to comprehend what was going on you managed to open your eyes. You could see Nami’s terrified face through her helmet. Her eyes wide, cheeks glistening with her tears, you held your breath as your pulse quickened. 

Breathing became easier when Nami was lifted, she shouted as she was being lifted by two black tentacles, at least you assumed there were tentacles. Nami kicked the air and tried to free herself, you stood there frozen with fear. 

The last thing Nami did was reach out to you. 

Blood dripped down, staining your pink suit with red. You couldn’t take your eyes off of her, a sharp object had gone through her chest, warm blood pouring down from her wound, her body now dangling, lifeless. 

“N-Nami?” 

Her body fell to the ground with a loud thud as an answer. You crawled towards her, your hands trembling, you shaked her again and again and again. Nami never woke up. 

“Y/n-chan I don’t think she’s going to wake up.” you hear the voice of Nami’s assailant hum. 

Tears dropped down from your cheeks as you leaned over your friend’s corpse. You clutched her spacesuit, hoping that this was all just a bad dream. Knowing that your wish would never come true you straightened up and faced the killer. 

“Sanji.” you hissed. “It was you all along?”

“That’s right.” he replied with a smile. 

He took a step closer to you and you jumped back. Sanji chuckled when he noticed the fear in your eyes, he feed off of your fear as he took another step. You were frozen with fear, your breathing short and uneven. He stood right before you and with a quick motion he tore off your helmet and threw it to the side. 

“You were so blindly in love.” he cackled. “You just made it so easy.”

“Since when have you been imitating him?” 

Surely it shouldn’t be that far in time. Sanji kneeled down, his suit stained with blood, he took off his mask as well revealing the wicked smile he had. He was truly enjoying this. 

“Since you lot left Pluto.” 

“Pluto…?”

That meant…

“You started to fall for “Sanji” after that, right?” he asked, grinning. “You never fell in love with him though. You fell in love with me.”  his eyes flashed and became red momentarily. 

You felt sick. Sanji never fell in love with you, Sanji never cuddled you, Sanji never comforted you. It was all…that thing, the impostor, the alien. He placed a hand under your chin and lifted your face so that you would face him. You hated that he looked like Sanji, your body betrayed you as your cheeks started to heat up. 

“I really don’t want to kill you,” he said, sighing. “Thanks to you I managed to kill everyone and it’s really fun to play with you but I’m not sure how you’re going to feel after this.” 

“I feel nothing.” you lied. 

“Is that so?” he shrugged. “Then that makes my job easier.” 

His hand came down on your throat, his nails digging into your skin. Your eyes watered, slowly but surely your windpipe was getting crushed. The impostor that was wearing Sanji’s face flashed you a toothy grin. 

“Thank you for making me experience human pleasures y/n.”

Before you blacked out you wished you could warn Robin. You wished you hadn’t sent Usopp to his death. You wished you could warn everyone before any of this happened. 

You wished you could’ve saved the real Sanji. 

But all of your wishes quickly drowned into eternal darkness.  

[kbstories]

Ontological

on·to·log·i·cal (adj.) Existing as such; metaphysical.

Eustass Kidd and Killer, during and afterwards.

(Or: Alliances are made. Killer and Zoro take care of some unfinished business.)

Tags: Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Aftermath of Violence (and SMILE), Worst Gen Reunion Pre-Party

Chapter 1. Chapter 2. No additional warnings apply. Read Chapter 4 here.

***

The Kidd Pirates arrive as one: Kidd up front, grim-faced and radiating Haki, with Killer to his right and Heat to his left and Wire trailing behind, eyes on their backs. Ahead, a handful of houses cluster around the slow trickle of a stream and cherry trees that dot the ground in gentle patterns. Everything about it whispers sweet promises of harmony, of a place to rest their weary heads and heal wounds barely starting to scar.

Kidd doesn’t trust any of it one fucking bit.

People are gathered in a loose group, conversations hushed and hard to make out from afar. A Marine’s wet dream, really, with how many bounties Kidd recognizes at a glance – or their worst nightmare, given Monkey D. Luffy is one of them.

That straw-hatted head turns and keeps turning into an angle that would snap any neck not made of rubber. A smile, bright with surprise.

“Oh? Spikey! And Spikey’s friend!”

Completely unaffected by the wave of tangible will Kidd pushes on them all, and after days of sharing a prison cell it just makes Kidd’s mouth tug into a grin. “Strawhat.”

(Through his mask Killer mutters, “Spikey’s friend”, like he’s contemplating if he likes it or not. Not that Strawhat would change a thing about it either way.)

Both Strawhat’s and Trafalgar’s crews are there, at least partially. Kidd spots the polar bear and those two idiots staring right at him – one of which jumps to his feet and runs inside – while that blonde guy with the kicks and Zoro flank their captain with little subtlety.

So they’re alive after all. Seems like Strawhat is not the only one capable of surviving an encounter with Kaido.

Still, Kidd isn’t here for handshakes and kisses. This is business and the way Strawhat’s expression turns a little pensive proves the brat has some braincells rattling in the attic, dusty as it must be up there.

“Where’s Trafalgar? We gotta talk.”

Strawhat just groans. “Another meeting? It’s lunch time! Sanji, you promised lunch.”

“That I did”, says Blondie around a mouthful of smoke. He nods at Kidd, curly brow raised. “You. Spikey. Any of you got a problem with eel? We’re having unagi.”

One more annoying than the other. Heat oohs behind Kidd, however, quiet enough it stays between them. That una-stuff must be good, then.

Kidd gives Killer a look; Killer tilts his head. Your choice. Kidd sighs.

“Fine, whatever. Hurry it up, we’re not staying.”

“Hey!”, the bear pipes up from the sidelines. The very moment Kidd’s eyes land on him, his frowned ferocity turns bashful and he looks to his feet, ears folded. “Sorry, um. I think we should wait for Captain.”

Strawhat makes an indistinct noise around the something-on-a-skewer he just shoved in his mouth. Once done, he uses the stick to point in Kidd’s general direction. “Nah, they’re okay. Right, Spikey?”

Before Kidd can utter the fuck you already on his lips, the swordsman to Strawhat’s right hums. “Luffy”, Zoro murmurs in that serious voice of his, one that demands to be heard without much effort. “Bepo’s right.”

And his gaze is focused on Killer, not Kidd, an arm casually coming to rest on his swords – there’s a similar tension in the way Killer holds himself, on his guard despite the lack of aggression in the air. (Breathing shallowly like he does when he’s trying to maintain the little control he has these days, like it’s better to go without altogether than laugh in company like this.)

Kidd glares. The metal around him starts to tremble.

“Eustass.”

Only one person says his name like that. The snarl on Kidd’s lips doesn’t go anywhere, especially with the indifferent glance Trafalgar Law acknowledges him with as he steps out of the shadows. All disgruntled like Kidd disturbed his beauty sleep or crashed a particularly boring match of chess or… any other thing a guy with that long a stick up his ass might do in his downtime.

 Eugh, maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.

“Trafalgar. Sure took your sweet time.”

The guy’s eyes narrow a little; Kidd smirks. The gears are already in motion under that ridiculously fluffy hat of his and well, Kidd did promise Killer he’d be civil. For the most part.

“You’re the one trespassing.” Trafalgar’s voice is all smooth disdain, no nonsense. “What do you want?”

Straight to the point. There are some qualities to be appreciated about him, arrogant prick or not. Kidd spits on the ground.

“Alright, listen up. Strawhat, you too.”

Strawhat actually does, giving him a curious look over the bowl of sauce-drenched rice he’s currently tearing into. Lunch time, right. Trafalgar merely blinks, unimpressed.

Rolling his shoulders, Kidd lets himself feel the ache of metal on scars, familiar, anchoring him in his body. The presence of his crew around him settles his senses, solid and always there in the periphery.

For days he’s breathed around the wrath in his lungs, spoken every word with the thrumming of his pulse in his throat. When Kidd smiles, it’s with lips red as blood and teeth bared like fangs.

There was a decision to make, and Kidd has made it.

“That war of yours? We want in.”

*

Later, much later, Kidd turns his back and Killer follows.

Heat and Wire are long gone, sent back to let the others know and prepare the Punk for battle. There’s much to be done still and little time to do it – Kidd thinks of the hell that will rain upon those who dared cross them and knows it will be worth it. This time, there will be no retreat. No mercy. Whatever the outcome, be it victory or death, it will be painted in shades of red.

Tomorrow, they sail for Onigashima.

Killer is next to him until he isn’t. Kidd blinks, stops, glances over his shoulder to see Killer's hand fall to the swords at his side.

“You.”

Amidst the sprawling fields between them and the hideout stands Zoro. The wind makes the grass surge like waves; it touches upon a face that has lost the guise of civility to reveal the demon underneath. This isn’t happening, shoots through Kidd’s mind, not again, and he growls as Haki gathers within him, ready to burst–

“Wait.”

Killer’s hand is on his chest, big and strong over the war drum of Kidd’s heart. “Wait”, Killer repeats and the calm of his voice cracks apart on a chuckle. Kidd’s gaze moves from the tension in Killer’s arm to Zoro’s eye and the recognition that sparks there.

Kidd remembers: Cuts across Killer’s chest, overlapping, all three of them deep and guaranteed to scar. Killer’s tightlipped silence over who did it, who hurt him–

“Come closer and I’ll tear you apart”, a venomous hiss more than strained with how hard Kidd’s jaw is clenched but he listens to Killer, always has when Killer’s this serious about something.

All Zoro does is stare at Killer’s mask, a gaze sharp enough to pierce layers of paint and welded metal. He says: “Those swords aren’t yours to wield. You should give them back.”

Killer huffs out an amused breath and for once, it’s genuine. “It can’t be helped. Someone took my scythes.”

An amusement that Zoro seems to share with the slightest uptilt of his mouth, “Is that so”, idle yet the threat in his stance goes nowhere. “What was it again? ‘Don’t talk down to the shogun’… or something along those lines.”

Killer’s fingers clench where they’re tangled in Kidd’s shirt. Zoro looks from that up to Kidd, smile growing all the more lethal.

“You didn’t tell him?”

Worded like a question when it’s not even close to one, and Kidd tries not to bristle, he really does. As if Zoro knows shit about anything, about them, about the living nightmare Killer’s been stuck in since–

Half a step and Killer shifts between them, sword half-way out of its sheath. Hisses, “Leave him out of this”, and Killer laughs despite the anger begging to be heard in there somewhere.

“Orochi means nothing to me. Nothing. He’ll die a dog’s death just like the rest of them.”

Kidd might not get what the hell they’re going on about but there’s real hurt in it, too, and suddenly all he wants is for Zoro to laugh. To mock Killer so Kidd can make good on the promise he gave his partner the day they went to sea and slaughter him like all the bastards that came before him.

Then… Zoro hums and that aura is gone, snuffed out with a blink and a scratch to bright green hair. “I kept the scythes, y’know. Would be a waste not to let them taste a fair battle.”

Killer doesn’t relax as much as he exhales a tired sigh. His sword is sheathed; a moment later his hold on Kidd drops and Kidd almost stumbles, only now realizing how hard he was pushing against the immovable line of Killer’s arm.

With steady hands, Killer unties the two shortswords from his waist and crosses the distance to hand them over. “A bit far to go for some stolen blades”, Killer tells him, an edge of annoyance there that Zoro shrugs off casually.

Kidd watches the interaction with narrow-eyed focus, waiting for the step out of line that never comes. Zoro meets his gaze only briefly, the eyebrow over his blind eye twitching upwards. As cocky and infuriating as his captain, Kidd’s mouth opens before he can stop himself.

“Try a stunt like that again and you’re dead, Pirate Hunter.”

The swordsman smirks, “I’ll take my chances”, before he turns to leave. Damn-near strolling back to his crew with a jaw-cracking yawn, and Kidd grinds his teeth and lets him.

Fucking Strawhats. 

Yet Killer is still staring after him, still hesitating. “The girl”, he calls after Zoro. “The one who laughed. Is she alive?”

Zoro stops, glances over his shoulder, a little puzzled. “Toko? Yeah, she’s safe.” A pause. “They executed her father. A good man.”

Killer’s head lowers. “What a shame”, he agrees, too quiet for the other to understand him. Zoro walks on and so does Killer, a step or two ahead before he tilts his mask at Kidd, waiting.

“You coming, Captain?”

Kidd banishes all thoughts of their rivals – allies, for now – out of his head and joins Killer.

And Kidd stays close, perhaps too close; their hands brush every few steps. With a fond huff, Killer’s fingers hook around Kidd’s and doesn't let go all the way to the Punk.

>>Chapter 4.

[mrs-hatake]

Seven First Kisses (intro)

Summary: You were a Lotte Duty Free store employee who has never been in a relationship before. One day, you meet with a genie who grants you wishes to pick the perfect partner for your first kiss among seven different men.

Celebrities (not in order): Sanji, Dabi, Kakashi, Aizawa, Ace, Zoro and Levi.

Word count: 2185

Face Claim: Gin Akutagawa

A/N: as you’ve guessed, this is based on the popular web drama, Seven first kisses. I only have the first chapter written as it was posted on my aff years ago but I will try to update as often as possible!

a kpop version of this is also posted on @ikonct95​

p.s, ignore any errors. I will proof read later.

B/D = Birth Date

On (B/D)  2020, You were busy working at the Duty Free of Japan’s largest international airport. The sound of people muttering which items they should buy and the sound of cash registers dinging were like music to your ears.

You moved to Japan three years ago as an English teacher. Being a teacher was a wonderful and rewarding job. The fact that you helped shape the kids of the future sent an exciting shiver down your neck. It was fun for a while but You soon grew bored of it; the never ending routine, having to use your own pocket money for class supplies and living in a tiny apartment, you’ve had enough. Luckily, one of your friends’ brother works at the airport and she threw in a word for You. After two years of being a teacher, You signed up with the airport and never looked back.

You usually enjoy your job because You love meeting new people. But today, You were totally not feeling it.

“Thank you.” You said with a bow and a smile as you gave a customer their bag. You sighed once You were sure the customer is long gone.

Today is my (Age) birthday, but I don’t have a boyfriend to celebrate with this year. I didn’t have one last year. Or the year before. I have never dated a man before in my life. Single since birth.

You shook your head to get free of those negative thoughts that only seem to invade your mind when You had nothing to do.

Need to focus!

You reprimanded yourself.

You straightened yourself once you saw a man from a distance walking towards You. Your mouth slowly dropped open as the man grew closer.

He’s so handsome!

You could feel your heart picking up its pace at the mere sight of him; tall, handsome and charismatic. A tiny spark of hope of him asking you out on a date on your birthday ignited within You.

“Excuse me?” His voice was light.

“Yes.” You answered dreamily.

“Trash…?”

“…What?”

Well, that woke You up from your daydream.

“The trashcan…?”

Your smile faltered as You watched the man raise his empty plastic cup of coffee, “I want to throw this away.” He explained.

“Oh…”

You quickly plastered on a smile, “I’ll throw it away for you.”

“Oh, yes. Thank you.” The man returned the smile.

“Honey!” A woman’s voice is heard from behind the man.

“Did you finish shopping?” The man asked the woman who now stood next to him.

“Yeah.” She replied as she wrapped her arm around his and walked away.

You looked down in slight disappointment, ignoring the way the couple laughed away at whatever one of them had said.

My (Age) birthday present is an empty cup?

“L/N F/N!”

“Yes?”

Your head turned sharply to the side in surprise at the sound of your manager’s voice. He beckoned Your towards him with a wave of his hand. Quickly, you walked over to him.

–

“Hurry, hurry!”

You struggled to carry the two heavy duty free boxes while trying to catch up to your boss who seemed like he was just carrying a stack of paper as you both walked along the hallway that had pictures of very famous Japanese celebrities hung on the wall.

The sound of a man calling his girlfriend and pecking her lips lovingly and talking to her in a baby manner caught your attention. Your lips formed into a pout at the two of them.

You tore your eyes away from them and looked at the pictures of the celebrities on the wall and sighed sadly.

“Single since birth, (Age) years old and never been kissed. I wish I could have a great boyfriend before I die. Like, right now..” In your haziness, You didn’t realize that You had said that out loud.

You jumped as your boss called your name, telling you to hurry up.

You returned to the front desk with slumped shoulders and a loud exhale. You ignored your two coworkers who were obviously talking about You even though You were standing just five feet away from them.

You were looking down at your phone when a loud clunk made You look up.

In front of You stood a tall and very beautiful woman who had a lovely olive complexion and lusciously long black hair. The woman in front of You seemed disinterested at everything around her at first but when she made eye contact with You, she gave You a small but kind smile.

You couldn’t help but stare at her, dumbfounded.

“Ah…the trashcan is…” You regained composure instantly and tried to take the coffee cup from the woman’s hand.

“Where is the jewelry store?” Was the woman’s question.

You smiled as You replied, “If you go down one floor, the jewelry store is located behind the escalator. Is there a specific brand you’re looking for?”

The woman pretended to be thinking before she answered, “No, I’ll just find it. Thank you.”

“Have a great day.”

“Wow…” You breathed out once the woman was out of earshot.

Working in an airport, You were exposed to all sorts of people. The kind, the rude, the impatient and the chilled ones. You always had to see well-dressed customers who looked charming as well but that woman was simply dazzling. Her entire aura screamed elegance and her beauty was radiant that it left You speechless.

Tearing your eyes away from where the woman had disappeared to, You noticed that the she had left her coffee cup behind on the counter.

Of course…

You lifted the cup and was surprised to find a dark green passport beneath the cup. You snatched the passport as worry washed over your face.

Oh! Oh no! Oh no! Shit!

You ran from the front desk as You realized that the beautiful woman had left the passport behind. You rushed down the escalators as the voice of your two coworkers followed You. You looked around for the woman on the lower level but couldn’t find her. Your eyes scanned the hundreds of faces in hopes to catch a glimpse of her but couldn’t spot her. You then walked into a random jewel store and asked the saleswoman, “Hello! Did a really tall beautiful woman with long hair come through here?” You knew that your description was vague but You had hoped that the saleswoman was just as awestruck as You were when You had seen the beautiful woman that she would know who You were talking about.

“No.” The woman replied apologetically.

“Thank you.”

You stood by the escalators and scanned your surroundings once more while repeatedly slapping the passport on your left hand. You rushed back upstairs and to the front desk where You asked your two coworkers “Did anyone come here searching for something?”

“No, no one.” One of them replied in annoyance while waving her hand in front of your face. “I couldn’t even go to the bathroom because of you! Why did you leave?”

You looked at her in surprise as she dragged the other coworker to the bathroom.

“Why do they always go to the bathroom together?” You exhaled loudly, “Seriously…”

You looked down at the green passport but your eyes widened at the sight of the sparkling engravings.

“Huh? This isn’t a passport!” You exclaimed while flipping the green booklet, “What is this?” You asked yourself as you opened it.

Inside the booklet was a picture of the beautiful woman from earlier with a brief description in a foreign language that You did not recognize.

“Excuse me. Did I…” A woman who sounded distressed interrupted your train of thought.

“Ah! This!” It was the beautiful woman from earlier, “I was running after you to return it…”

“Thank you so much!” The beautiful woman thanked You,  a grateful smile on her pillowy lips, “I thought I lost it. Thank you so much! How can I repay you?”

You smiled kindly, “It’s okay. I’m just doing my job.” You lowered your head humbly.

“Please, I insist” The beautiful woman proclaimed. “Thank you. If I didn’t have this… I wouldn’t be able to go back.”

“Ah…where are you going?” You asked curiously, “It doesn’t seem like a passport…” You trailed off.

The beautiful woman chuckled.

Instead, she said, “I want to repay you. Please tell me one wish.” And then proceeded to hold onto your hands.

You made a funny face at her, “A wish?”

The woman nodded her head.

“No, it’s really fine, ma’am.” You insisted. Unsure of what the woman meant by ‘wish’ and You weren’t sure if You wanted to find out.

“I really want to repay you. Just tell me anything! Hurry!”

You were taken aback at the woman’s impatience. You played along, not wanting to offend the woman, and thought of that one wish that You had been wishing for since you were 15 years old.

The beautiful woman looked at You with intensity, still holding your hand.

“You just made a wish saying you’ve been single since birth and never been kissed?” The woman stated.

“What?”

You blinked in confusion.

The woman smiled knowingly. “I know what your wish is.”

The woman pointed at the desk behind You and six cards appeared out of thin air.

“What the fuck?” You gasped at the sudden appearance of the cards.

In each card, there were black silhouettes in the shape of a man with a large, white question mark in the middle.

You turned to face the woman in slight fear and confusion.

“You’re going to meet a great man in 10 seconds.” The woman said with a calm smile.

“What?” You stuttered, heart racing in fear and body shaking in nervousness at the sheer madness of it all. You must be dreaming. That was the only logical explanation.

“Oh! My balloon!”

You got distracted by the sound of a child’s cry. You looked at the child whose balloon was drifting away when suddenly, everything around You started moving in slow motion. The handles on the wall clock moved agonizingly slow, the woman throwing popcorn into her mouth, standing next to the restrooms, was doing it at such a slow speed that You had to blink your eyes a couple of time to make sure You weren’t hallucinating. Everything that surrounded You moved in a very slow pace and made You slightly panic.

“It’s already 10 minutes before work is over.”

“Awesome!”

Your coworkers’ voices faded into the background noise and things no longer moved in slow motion.

You shook your head and turned to face the beautiful woman from earlier but was surprised to find her gone. You looked around but the woman was nowhere in sight. As You looked around, You did not notice the figure walking towards the front desk until he was a couple of feet in front of You. You squinted your eyes trying to see who the figure was and when he stood directly in front of You, your eyes widened and you let out a quiet ‘Oh my God!’

The man was dressed in a velvet maroon suit with his hair styled upwards into spikes. His thick lips were formed into a lazy smirk and his eyes were filled with mischief. He laid his hand on the counter top as he leaned his body forward.

“I heard you’re getting off work soon.” His voice was teasing.

Your two coworkers looked at You in amazement and jealousy, a fact You were unsure of.

“I’ll wait up by the front.” The man instructed.

“What? Me? You’re going to wait for me?” Your voice raised its pitch with every syllable.

The man nodded his head and smiled at your amusing confusion.

You looked at your coworkers who were just as surprised as You were.

The man smiled one last time before walking away.

One of the coworkers stood beside You and asked, “Do you know him?”

“Wasn’t that Levi Ackerman, the famous actor? Did he just come and speak to me?” You were in a state of shock but your voice was filled with glee.

“What do you mean, actor? He’s the newly-rising IT tycoon, the number one most charming single man in Japan, Levi Ackerman!” the second coworker frowned at You.

You stared at the retreating figure before throwing a shocked look at your coworker.

“Come on, stop teasing me!” You playfully slapped her arm, “He’s the actor, Levi Ackerman!”

The two coworkers continued to frown at you.

“Why do you keep insisting on him being an actor? We just told you he’s a tycoon.”

You ignored at their bickering and searched up the man on google. And true to their words, he was indeed not an actor.

“He’s not an actor? What in the world is going on?” You muttered to yourself quietly as You skimmed through several articles until the end of your shift.

Well, one thing for sure is that You needed to find that beautiful woman and ask her what’s going on because You had a strong hunch that that woman has something to do with this.