Luffy's eyes flew open, his heart was raising and he was covered in a thin layer of sweat. Sitting up Luffy brought his hand to his face as the images of his dead crew flashed throw his mind once more. It was Akinu who killed them just like his brother. Like before he was too weak to save them.
The sound of snoring caught his attention. Looking over he saw Brook first, then he slowly looked around the room seeing all of his male companions safe and sound and asleep in their beds.
It was only a dream this time but Luffy still carried the dream that the dream might one day become true. He had to get stronger, much stronger than he currently was.
As quietly as he could he climbed out of his bed and made his way outside. Usually at this time of night Luffy would be heading towards the kitchen for a midnight snack but he didn't feel very hungry right now.
Instead he headed over towards the side of the ship and rested his arms on the railing as he leaned against it.
The night was peaceful and the sea was dark.
Tears began to stream down Luffy's face without his consent. He had thought that he had gotten over the loss of his brother. He missed Ace so much.
"Luffy?" Luffy jumped as Robin's voice startled him. She was always up late, sometimes Luffy wondered if she ever went to bed at all.
Robin saw the tears in her captain's eyes as he started to turn to face her. Her heart broke for him. She wasn't sure what it was about though she had some suspicions. She remembers the pain she felt after Ohara was destroyed. Even now the pain had not fully healed. She doubted it ever would.
Not really thinking acting more on instinct Robin reached out her arms and embraced her captain pulling him close.
Luffy at first froze surprised by the gesture. After a moment though he responded by wrapping his arms around her. The tears came again as he began to sob into her shoulder.
Robin rubbed his back gently trying to comfort him. Tears began to well in her own eyes as he continued to cry.
"I am so sorry," whispered Robin.
Luffy's sobs began to soften. He pulled back looking her in the eyes. "What are you sorry for?"
"You were there for me but I wasn't there for you when you needed it the most."
"Don't worry about it," Luffy smiled, "You are here now."
"And I will always be here for you, Captain."
"Thank You," Luffy's smile broadened. For some reason he felt a lot better now. With that he turned away from Robin and began to walk towards the kitchen. He paused for a moment and glanced over his shoulder back at his archaeologist. "I mean it Robin, thank you."
After that he continued in his journey to the kitchen. He was starting to feel hungry now and was ready for his midnight snack.
