Hey, guys. Here is the first One Shot out of I don't know how many will follow. xD I wanna thank Foxchika17 for beta reading and I hope you'll all enjoy it.
SPOILER This one starts right after the war when Ace died.
Day 1
Again, or rather, still he was captured in his pain.
He ran and ran; he screamed and screamed. The memory, the pain, it just wouldn't disappear; not even for a moment, no matter what he did. He was alone and the darkness and the pain wouldn't leave him alone.
He ran to escape the agony. He tried not to think about it. He didn't want to think about it. Not about Ace. Not about Ace, and how he drew his last breath. Not about the blood –the deep crimson blood coming from Ace as he died in his arms.
Screaming, the Straw hat Captain ran even faster on the beach of Boa Hancock's island.
He just wanted it stopped. It should stop. Nothing more. Just stop.
Luffy ran too quickly and too blindly to see the tree trunk. Even though he broke through it, he tripped and fell into the sand. He stayed like this for a painful moment. He didn't have to breathe. He didn't want to breathe. So why was he still breathing if every damned breath tore his heart even more apart?
When it started getting dark, he turned his head to the sea. Luffy looked at the sinking sun.
He wished so much to sink just like the sun. Without grief, sorrow, worry.
But this, to the young captain, was something impossible.
Something caught his attention instead, though.
It wasn't like Luffy had been approachable these last few days or that he had found something interesting, but whatever it was in the water, for the first time in a long time he was interested in something.
Luffy got to his feet and went to the water's edge, on which a piece of wood was floating.
There was a high probability that it was just another ship that had been swallowed by the sea in a storm, leaving only this behind.
But why was he suddenly interested in a piece of wood?
Luffy examined it carefully.
No, it wasn't the piece of wood that made him interested. It was more the sound coming from the wood that caught his attention. It was a piece of wood with something, or more precisely, someone on it.
Luffy stretched his arm out, grasped the wood, and dragged it –together with a small passenger –towards himself.
His eyes widened a bit when he discovered that the passenger was a little cat. He wanted to immediately turn around again and leave the kitten to itself, but the cat seemed to be wounded. Furthermore, he could see its bones clearly, and he couldn't tell how intact they were.
There was a voice inside his head, maybe his instincts, demanding to take the kitten and help it as fast as possible. He didn't know where the voice came from, but he just couldn't let the cat die, now could he?
He shut his eyes. One more life would deem him responsible. And what if he wasn't fast enough? It would be his fault anyways. She would be dead. This beautiful cat, whose fur was as orange as his navigator's hair color. Nami …
He took the kitten in his hand, carefully, not wanting to hurt her, and ran as fast as possible to Hancock. He wouldn't let this cat become like Ace.
Day 3
He was running again. And running. And running. But this time it felt a little different.
From time to time, his tired mind wandered to a certain little kitty he wasn't even sure would survive.
But why did he fool himself? One more death to the list didn't matter anymore anyways. First, he wasn't able to protect his crew, and then his brother died before him. Was his crew fine? Were they alive? Did they need help? It wasn't as if they were weak but often it was him who they constantly sought after for help. After all, he was the captain. They had to have trust in him.
But now? He failed his brother. So, how could they possibly rely on him, trust in him, if he himself wasn't sure anymore that he really could protect them? Or would he kill them in the end? Because he had to jump headfirst into every adventure and endanger them, all of them, by doing so, would it be their death? His crew, would they survive him?
Luffy was shattered. Completely shattered.
He fell to the ground and tried fight away his pain by hitting the ground. Hitting it with what little strength he had left –all to no avail. His pain stayed. And no matter how much he hurt himself physically, it was never enough to stop feeling the inner pain.
Tears, so many tears that it was unimaginable, were streaming down his face.
He had failed his brother.
Somewhere inside of him, he just didn't grasp it, didn't comprehend it.
Ace was gone –gone for good. He was never coming back. He was never going to save his little brother again. Never going to teach him again. Never going to get upset and frustrated with him again. Never going to compete with him again. Ace was gone. But he was at a better place, wasn't he? That's what Luffy tried so hard to convince himself of. Ace's life never had been easy, now has it? But he had enjoyed it. Right?
The black haired boy drooped and cried bitterly until exhaustion took over.
It tugged on him. It pulled him down. He bled. He bled to death. His heart was pierced. And the knife still was in there. And it wasn't just in there, it was twisting and turning, so that the wound got bigger and bigger, and the pain worse and worse.
And it brought Luffy down, down to a place where he never wanted to be, inside himself. It was too much. Even for his strong will.
How could he possibly be strong enough now? How could he protect his beloved nakama? Would he even see them ever again? Or would they abandon him now, thinking that he was no longer suited as captain? He wasn't so sure right now. Would they let him down just like he let his brother down? He wouldn't resent them in the least, but it would put him over the edge.
Day 5
That little kitten…
Why was it here? Why was he watching it sleep? Why? It was just a little cat. So why did his instinct, his feeling tell him to be there? To Protect it. What was there that should he protect it from?
The doctor had told him it was a female cat, so it was really a kitty and not a male cat, but Luffy had known instantly that it was a kitty. Wherefrom? Instinct.
But still, he didn't understand why he was there. With this kitty.
It had hypothermia and hadn't eaten for a while now. Furthermore, its bones were cracked but nothing incurable. It would heal. The doctor said it was going to be alright. This kitten really struggled through. It was strong willed. It wanted to live. It was fighting for dear life, as if it was worth it. Worth all the pain, and grief, and agony.
She had been hit said the doctor. And afterwards she had been thrown overboard, or maybe the ship had gotten into a storm and had gotten ripped apart. Nobody knew what had happened. But this kitten should not have survived. It should not have had the will to cling to the wood and survive. It should have died since it was just a small and young kitten. It should have been killed by storms; if not storms then by hostile pirates and by God; if not by pirates then there should have been some fish. Where were all those sea monsters? Why did this kitten survive? Why did it fight? Fighting for a lost life. And it was lost the moment it saw the water. Why did it live though? Why did such a small creature survive? Why couldn't he survive? Why couldn't he have such a strong will like the kitten? What was it the kitten clung to that he couldn't cling to?
Luffy didn't know it. Yet, he envied her. She had reached her goal. It had survived. She really had survived. No one doubted her survival any more, even though she was still weak.
Day 6
The young captain sat on a cliff and watched the sun go down.
Why didn't he want to scream today? Why didn't he want to scream at all? He still wanted to run. To run away from the pain. And even though he hated it, he had no other possibility. What should he do? But then again, why was he sitting here and watching the sun? What did he want to reach with that? Did he want to reach something? What was wrong with him? Was he about to forget Ace's death? Was he trying to suppress it? Acting as if nothing had ever happened?
Well, he had tried. And it hadn't worked. It was no nightmare. Or maybe it was. The worst nightmare ever. The realest nightmare ever.
He closed his eyes and let the wind blow through his hair. He just gave himself away to the world.
He heard the waves as they rushed, heard them crashing against the rocks, heard the seagulls squawking and other birds singing, heard the leaves of the trees rustling. It all gave him courage. Hope. Everything he thought lost, everything he had given up, the world in this moment seemed to be handing everything back to him. But he didn't want to take it. He wasn't ready for it. He just didn't want to. He would not take it. Would not let himself feel hope, or courage, again.
And why should he? What reason did he have? True, his friends were reason enough. But he hasn't seen them for so long. Did they even look for him? Did they even live? Did his precious nakama live? His dear crew he wouldn't swap for anything… He would give his life for them. And he would not leave it at that. What meaning did life have without them?
Even after long merciless hours of running he still ended in a certain sickroom where a certain kitty was lying.
The little thing was getting better. She was still sleeping but surely it had to mean something good. She was breathing calmly. And she was being so peaceful. Content with herself. The color of the fur got even more beautiful. When she was wet, it was dark and bloody. But now it even shined a bit. And it was as bright as his navigator's hair.
She wore a cast on one paw and some other wounds were bandaged.
Carefully, lost in thought even, the captain touched the sleeping bundle on her head. He cautiously stroked the shining fur.
It felt soft. So unbelievably soft. The fur was fluffy. It wasn't that long but longer than of any cat he had ever seen.
Her ears were scratched and scarred.
He wondered who the hell would hurt this little creature like that. He also wondered how in hell he could have thought to let it die.
He wandered to her ears, caressed them.
It felt weird. But he couldn't quite figure this feeling out, either. Why did he care so much for this kitty? Why did it appear in his head right beside Ace? Why? What was so special about her? Her will? Or the hopeless fight? The hopeless fight she won after all. What did fascinate Luffy about this cat? What was so special about a cat which was supposed to have died?
He didn't know. He just didn't know. Like so many things.
What did he know about this creature? What? Could he judge it? No. Then why did he? Why did he want her to lose this fight? Everybody deserved to live. Right? So why was he against it with this kitten? Did he hate her? But then, why did he come here? Why? Why had he come at all?
He turned and left the room.
Day 7
The next day he sat on the same cliff as the day before. And again he was thinking.
His anger decreased. His sadness increased. But he started thinking about it. About his pain, his agony. He started dealing with it, facing it.
Until Jimbei approached.
"Luffy, you need to eat something. "
He sounded really worried.
Luffy wondered if Nami would like him. After all, Jimbei was a fish man and Nami had been enslaved by one. For so many years she had to suffer. So would she accept this one in particular? Would she be afraid? Or would she hate him? But then again, she had accepted Okta, hadn't she?
But probably she would never get to know him anyways. So why did he ask himself something like that at all? He had failed. He wasn't worth being called captain anymore. He didn't deserve this title anymore.
Nodding, he stood up and followed Jimbei.
Here he had friends who were important to him. Friends who would not let him go just like that. He still had a reason to fight. Even if it was such a small one, it was there, the reason. But the will, his will –to fight; to live; to keep on pushing past hardship –was not there.
Being so happy about Luffy coming to her finally, Boa Hancock fainted momentarily, only waking up when Luffy had finished his meal and had disappeared once again. But at least he had eaten something. That way his wounds could heal way better and he would survive. Yes, at least she was sure about that.
Luffy hadn't eaten as much as he usually would. However, the daily amount of food available to him when he wouldn't come in was being all used up; it was a good sign after all.
After the meal Luffy went directly to the room he so much hated and yet was so familiar to him by this point.
Why did he hate it? The cat hasn't done anything to him. And he didn't hate people or animals just because they survived a fight he lost. Since when was he jealous? Above all the kitten was hurt quite badly. She had to endure as much as he had had to. So why did he hate her? Why?
Before entering the room Luffy heard something meow.
Was the kitten awake?
He probably wasn't aware of the small, the tiny smile that slowly spread over his lips and he went just a little bit faster.
In fact, the cat had woken up and now tried to stand, though it constantly fell down having the paw casted.
As Luffy entered the cat's head shot up and she observed Luffy with big, brown and curious eyes.
Maybe it was this moment that sealed his destiny. Maybe not. But these eyes – he could swear he had seen such beautiful ones somewhere already. And he could swear that he missed something here. Something small – a detail maybe. But something important. Though, what was it?
Slowly, he walked over to the cat and laid it down again.
"You mustn't get up or else your bones won't heal," he said monotonously. But it wasn't like he had talked to others in a different tone. "You have to be more careful. You've been injured badly and it has been pure luck that saved you."
Luffy couldn't quite grasp this look. That look. He didn't understand the emotions behind. Yes, he saw the emotions but he couldn't assign them. Why? Because all he felt was sadness, anger, hatred and agony? Was it because of that? But would he recognize these emotions if someone looked at him like that? Would he be able to tell what the other was feeling?
"Meow."
Luffy was torn out of his thoughts and looked to the kitten.
"What'cha want?"
"Meow."
She tried to stand up again. But Luffy put her on the table once more.
"Are you hungry? I could get you some milk."
"Meow."
Luffy considered what it meant. Was it a yes? Or a no? But he wasn't stupid. He would be hungry like a wolf after such a trip.
"Wait here, I'll get you a bowl milk", he said and went quickly to the kitchen to get some milk for his little kitten.
Why was he so eager? Why did he want to help this cat? Why was he doing this? He didn't understand himself anymore. Because he just did it. He acted somehow on instincts. His head was thinking but his body didn't listen. Since the moment he had found the cat his body started acting all on its own. And his head only speculated about his actions. No, it was more like his head was thinking something completely different. Like his body acted but his head was somewhere else. He just saw himself from above doing all these things. And he tried so hard to understand it. But nothing in his life made much sense anymore.
Whoever he met, that person was ignored. He just got a bowl and the milk and ran quickly back to his small cat.
The kitten was lying down when he came back. So it seemed she had listened to him.
The raven haired boy put the bowl next to her and poured the milk in. The cat tried to stand up again but this time Luffy grabbed her and held her upright as long as she was drinking. She emptied the whole bowl and even licked the bowl clean. After that she licked over her lips and looked at Luffy with those brown, round eyes of hers. She looked thankfully. But also longingly. Was it longing? Or did he get it wrong? What else would she want?
"Meow."
"Are you still hungry?"
The cat seemed to smile at least it appeared to Luffy.
She meowed again. And that confused the boy. What did she want?
"So no hunger, huh?"
He laid her down again but she jumped to her paws and walked to where he was leaning against the desk.
She had her forepaw casted but still she had the other three paws to walk with. Slowly she got used to walking only on three.
She snuggled against Luffy's jeans and purred softly. In doing so she lifted her head and looked at him with sparkling brown eyes.
He was captivated. She fascinated him. But how? And why? Why was he fascinated of a cat?
He had to go. Fast.
Luffy turned around, said nothing, didn't even look at her once more. And fled.
Day 8
He came back at last. He just couldn't not come. It didn't work. Of course he had been running beforehand, during the night. Dawn had just broken when he came here. Here, to the small kitten that amazed him so much.
He got himself a chair, brought it to the desk and watched the kitten who in turn watched his actions with round and curious, or so they appeared, eyes.
He laid his head on the table and was on eye height with his cat.
"How should we call you?"
The kitten immediately twitched with her ears and raised her head. Her gaze was full of hope. Or was it? Luffy wasn't so sure. Why would a cat hope? But the kitten knew better why she was hopeful. To name something was the first step to win Luffy for herself. He wouldn't leave her alone anymore if he just opened up a bit more. Just a bit.
Smiling slightly–an awkward, crooked smile –Luffy thought about it.
"How should I call you?"
"Meow?"
Luffy examined his small kitten.
"How about I call you Meat?"
The cat jumped to her paws and hissed at him.
Luffy didn't move a bit but his expression changed a little.
"Okay, okay, not Meat."
He pouted and the kitten meowed. Apparently, she was amused, which conjured a bigger smile upon Luffy's face.
"How about Steak?"
Again, the kitten hissed at him but stayed lying and raised only her paw to show her disapproval. And she growled. Yes, it was a growling and not purring, though it sounded so cute.
"Ok, not either. So … Sausage?"
"Salami?"
"Then Ham."
"Fish! You like fish as well. But that is stupid. Then you can't be called Fish."
Feverishly, Luffy thought and stared at the cat.
"I know it!" he said suddenly. "Every time I see you I think of oranges. So why not calling you Mikan?"
Luffy smiled because of his idea. Unconsciously. But still he did.
"That's how I'm gonna call you from now on," Luffy decided and the kitten meowed happily. "So you like the name, too? I'm glad, shishishi."
Mikan jumped to her feet and fell down again. Thereupon, Luffy jumped up and lifted her, examining her anxiously.
"Are you okay, Mikan? Did you hurt yourself?"
Mikan purred in his hands though, and seemed to enjoy it there. The cat was so small that she found enough space on Luffy's hands without any difficulty.
She snuggled on his hands and purred happily.
Smiling, Luffy stayed like this for a while. A pretty long while, for he didn't want to hurt her. He didn't want to destroy this moment, either. This moment that was filled with love and warmth. These feelings he hadn't been experiencing for such a long time now. Why could he feel them now all of a sudden? Because of a cat? That was ridiculous. And stupid.
He laid her down again carefully, not daring to look into those disappointed hazel eyes of his kitty.
"Be good," he said quietly. He hadn't intended those words to come out. And he sure as hell hadn't intended promising her to come back. So why had he done it? Why? He wouldn't be able to protect her, either. Not even such a small kitten.
He turned around wordlessly and left.
Day 9
He ran. He ran like crazy. And he ran since he had left the infirmary. Where did he take the power to run all of a sudden? To run that long. Where did he take the power from? Especially when Ace's death overwhelmed him again; when the pictures of death threatened to crush him; when everything seemed so hopeless again, so pointless; when the anger shook him again… how could he draw power from that? The anger and the endless sadness, the agony… The pain, the sharp dagger in his heart…
He wasn't able to breathe. Why was he doing it anyways? Why didn't the world stop to rotate after Ace died? Why did it go on rotating, bringing new day after new, unbearable day? And why did he live when his brother had to die? What was he guilty of? Why did he have to die? And what was Luffy guilty of that he wasn't able to save his brother? What did the crew do that they were separated so brutally? And what did he do that the world still went on rotating?
Day 13
He was running yet again. The images were too strong. They smothered him. They held him on the ground, took the air needed to breathe, took the will to live. Why? Then his desire for revenge started. He wanted to kill the government. One person after the other, without mercy –all of them did deserve it. All of them deserved to die. They deserved it, without exception –every single one of them. For they dared to just look the wrong way at Ace.
This incredible rage overtook Luffy's thinking and he destroyed everything on his way. Everything.
Soon, though, the rage faded, and all that was left was pain and agony. These two were his devoted companions during the past weeks. Just like his shadow were they always there. Followed him, didn't release him and troubled him. Every second of his life. They drove him insane.
"Meow!"
By hearing this sound, though, his mind blacked out and his body turned on automatic.
"Meooooooooooow!"
And a wild snarl was to be heard.
Luffy sprinted, as fast as he was able to, to the place and was right on time to throw himself on the big tiger before the large predator could devour the kitten.
He killed the tiger. He didn't care.
The raven haired boy turned immediately to Mikan and picked her up.
"Mikan, are you fine?"
Luffy was worried. No, he was worried sick because she shivered and had scratches all over her body. Her cast was off, too.
"What are you doing here? You have no business here, Mikan!"
He didn't shout at her, though his voice trembled and sounded very dangerous.
Mikan's fur raised and she growled back. She shivered still, though.
Luffy scolded himself right after. Still, he was very worried about her. Anything could have happened to her. She could have been killed. Without the slightest problems. On the spot.
"Come on, let's patch you up."
Mikan relaxed and curled up on his hands. They were so warm. Although being scratched and smelling after blood, and she hated the smell of blood, Luffy's hands were his and he was there. He was there again and saved her again. Her hero. Her savior. She felt safe and secure with him. And … loved, yes. Maybe it wasn't Luffy's intention, but the small kitten felt loved by him. For who would save her if he didn't, at the very least, like her? She had been hunted and nearly killed, after all. So, to assume that the person, who brought her milk and saved her twice, loved her wasn't that out of place, now was it?
"My goodness, gracious me!" said the doctor when she saw the two enter. "Like lordling, like animal." She sighed. "Put the animal down there. I'll take care of you right away."
"But take care of Mikan first. Besides, I'm fine", Luffy disagreed.
He leaned on a near wall and observed the doctor tending to his little kitten. In doing so, she told him that the cast was down already because the fracture was not that bad, and this kitty seemed to heal extra fast. But she scratched her paw really deeply, which the doctor tended to right away. Apart from that, she was fine though.
Mikan meowed happily and observed Luffy all the time.
The doctor turned to the boy and insisted on taking care of him as well. He looked terrible. So much blood. Dried and fresh. Still flowing blood. What did he do, this boy? And what was he still doing?
Luffy murmured something, but gave it up soon enough. Just for the kitten he did this.
When Luffy was taken care of, too, he took Mikan and walked with her into the kitchen. He was hungry and he was so sure that she was too.
"Luffy! Oh, Luffy!" a voice called from behind, and a very shy Hancock waved at him. Until she saw the cat in his hand. Her hand stopped midair, and her look turned hateful, then angry and finally hurt. In the end, she seemed not to care, for as she continued her way to Luffy, she didn't appreciate Mikan with just one look.
Mikan wondered about this beautiful woman. But she didn't care. Mikan knew that Luffy liked her more than this bitch.
"What do you want to eat Luffy-kun?"
"A cup of milk for Mikan and then whatever cats eat."
After that Luffy took a look at the buffet and even while walking did he stuff his mouth with lots of meat. Not to mention all the plates he filled along the way.
Mikan would have smiled if she could have. Luffy was really something else.
When the plates were full and the boy had stuffed enough food, he sat down at a table in the big hall. It was a big one with many tables and chairs. There was a buffet and it seemed a door to the kitchen.
He sat Mikan down on the table and as he had finished the first ten plates Mikan's milk and another bowl with meat in it were brought.
The strawhat boy smiled slightly, seeing the kitty rush to its bowl and start eating. Just like him. This thought alone cheered him up: just like him.
Mikan licked the bowl with the meat and rushed nearly immediately to the milk. She felt like she was in heaven. Her stomach was full for the first time in a very long time, and her hero sat right next to her. And she was sure that, now, he wouldn't ever leave her. Why? Because she would go look for him and he wasn't one to let her endanger herself. He would not let her get hurt, just like before he would rush to her side, save her, then shout at her, but it all meant that he cared for her. And that's why he would not leave her ever again. Maybe it was even because he liked her a bit more. And she was sure that Luffy knew –consciously or unconsciously, but he knew nonetheless.
She licked her lips, sat down and looked around.
Some women were eating; others were observing her with big round eyes. Mikan wondered why. Just because she was a cat?
Then she turned and laughed. Of course all came out was meowing but when she saw Hancock all by herself and ignored by Luffy, she just could not hold it. Somehow it seemed that Hancock liked Luffy, too. But he didn't like her in that way. Sure, he must have been thankful for being allowed to stay here. But that's it.
So, Mikan turned around again and was promptly gazing into two black, deep eyes, which must have been observing her all this time.
The kitten stood up elegantly, stretched and curled against Luffy's hand, purred with pleasure.
The boy smiled softly, stroking her fur. He was astonished to find out how different it felt today; it was much softer and fuller. It even shone much more and sparkled. She was becoming prettier and prettier, his Mikan.
Luffy finished eating and even though he wasn't full at all he took kitty and left with her, completely oblivious to the hurt look of Boa Hancock.
"What shall we do today, Mikan?"
"Meow."
Luffy chuckled.
"Oh, yeah, that sounds great."
"Meow."
Grinning, he looked down at her. "Do you wanna tease me, Mikan?"
"Meow?" Big brown eyes looked at him from under him. He could not even act as if he was mad at her. She was such a beautiful creature. So wonderful. So wonderful.
The straw hat boy walked to the cliff again. It was late afternoon by now, but the sun did not shine. It looked more like it would rain. Still, Luffy wanted to stay out. And he knew that Mikan would be where he was. So, she would stay outside. With him.
He sat down on a rock and put Mikan down on his lap.
"Beautiful, isn't it, Mikan?"
"Meow."
He black haired boy rhythmically stroked her back, and caressed, with his other hand, her ear.
How she loved this. Really. It was like Luffy knew where he needed to touch her to make her utterly happy.
She purred contently and leaned into his hand. Her tail twitched when she liked something, and he watched as it went back and forth across his lap.
Day 14
Her cat instincts woke her up even before she knew if there was something wrong.
Mikan jumped to her feet and walked to the bed Luffy was lying on.
She had her own basket and even though she preferred being near to Luffy, she assumed that the basket was the nearest she could hope for.
It was still in the middle of the night and only the moon slightly illuminated the room.
The cat ducked right in time before Luffy sent her flying across the room.
Alarmed, she looked at him.
The boy rummaged in his bed. Lashed about. Breathed heavily.
It was right after that the cat jumped on his chest and swatted against his skin with her paw. Though, it was in vain, since Luffy did not wake up. He just got more fidgety. He wrestled with the sheets, his limbs flailing about frantically. He whimpered and cried bitter tears.
Mikan had difficulties not falling off of his body and something needed to be done.
"Ace."
He sounded full of hope. And it broke her heart. For Ace was dead.
"Ace!"
His voice became pleading.
"No, Ace!"
Now he started to cry.
Mikan walked up to his face, bent down and licked him. Well, if this did not wake him up …
"ACE!"
It tore her heart apart.
Turning, she stroke out with her paw and scratched him so roughly that she was sure that the wound would be way too deep, but he had to wake up.
Instantly was Luffy awaken and sat upright in his bed.
Mikan was pushed by him and flew to the other end of the bed, stopping before she fell down.
Luffy panted and looked sharply around the room.
Again. Again did he have this nightmare. Just when would it stop?
"Meow?"
Two wonderful brown eyes brought him back.
His look fell down on his lap on which a certain cat relaxed. Then his look wandered to his bruised chest, bleeding. It looked like he has been scratched.
The orange cat licked his stomach. She did not want to hurt him. And she was sorry. But at least he was awake.
"Oh, Mikan," he sighed.
The straw hat boy let himself fall down on the bed once more and put his arm above his closed eyes.
Meanwhile, Mikan jumped down and ran away. Luffy wondered but did not even look at her disappearing.
He was so exhausted. It killed him. Always, when he thought it couldn't get worse, it just got worse. Much worse …
Before he could rack his brains though, he heard Mikan meow and her light and quite tiptoes on the floor. Then he felt a slight weight on the bed and finally on his stomach. But apart from the soft paw he felt something raw, too. Luffy looked up and found a cloth hanging from Mikan's snout. Carefully she laid it down on his chest and stepped on it as to wipe away the blood or at least she tried and at the same time she tried to stop the bleeding.
Luffy smiled.
"What a clever cat you are."
He stroked her fur, sat up and sat her down on his lap. Then he dabbed his chest and wiped the blood away. The bleeding would stop soon enough by itself, but he would push the cloth on it until it did. Thereby, he caressed Mikan behind her ear all the time. Purring, she enjoyed the gentle touch.
Day 14
Since Luffy's nightmare Mikan hovered over him and admittedly, he even enjoyed it. She was curled up on his stomach and he stroked her fur constantly.
Just how much he loved this fur. He knew someone was there. Someone was taking care of him, even though he thought he did not need it. Still, it was a nice feeling. And this cat, his Mikan, reminded him of someone so much. Didn't she? He had yet the feeling that he missed something. Something was there, he just did not find out what. It bothered him the rest of the night, but the nightmares did not come back, nor the plaguing memories of Ace.
By early morning, when the sun sent only small sunbeams through the window Luffy wanted to get up. But he just couldn't bring himself to wake the little bundle on his belly. He just couldn't. She was too cute and too peaceful. She was his angel. Oh, yeah. And he would protect her with everything he had. And damned shall he be if he wasn't able to protect such a small creature.
Yes, the straw hat captain found new hope. He wanted to protect her. He wanted to shoulder a life, protect it and make it happy.
Mikan awoke by a small movement and looked at him with big, round brown eyes. Luffy smiled and he ruffled her fur.
"Good morning, kitty. You slept well?"
He chuckled when Mikan stretched herself and yawned as if to tell him just how well she has slept.
She waddled on his chest to his face which she licked, her rough tongue becoming an evermore familiar sensation to him.
Laughing, Luffy hold her high and prevented himself from another lick attack.
"No, my little. That was a mean attack."
"Meow."
"What was it? You wanna deny it?"
"Meow."
"Aaaah, that's not good, Mikan."
He looked punitively at her.
"You wanna deny your deceitful plan?"
"Meow."
He looked at her challengingly.
"I think I have to punish you for that. A dangerous pirate is standing right in front of you, after all."
Luffy swore seeing her trying to stick out her tongue at him. Stunned, he watched her. But then he pushed the idea away as his imagination, and threw her playfully on the bed.
Mikan immediately turned on her feet, meowed and looked at Luffy challengingly. He put her on her back again and started to tickle her ruthlessly. Or at least he tried. Well, what a pity, but she just wasn't ticklish. She purred instead and played with his hand. His hand was something like a ball of wool to her and she tried to catch it with her paws. Luffy didn't care that he got some scratches from it.
Their little game was soon disrupted when Luffy's stomach started talking to them. Immediately, Mikan jumped to her feet, bit Luffy's finger and tried to pull him from the bed.
"Easy, Mikan, easy" he said, laughing. "Let me change my clothes first."
His clothing held his sweat, and surely he didn't smell well anymore, either.
"Let me take a shower."
Mikan looked like she was thinking about it, sniffed at his hand and wrinkled her nose. She let his hand fall nearly instantly, ran to her basket and stared at him.
"Thanks."
Smiling, he walked to the bathroom and left Mikan alone in the room. Though, he didn't close the door completely. But, who should come in, anyways? Whoever it was, Mikan would banish him. Nobody was allowed to see her Luffy like that.
The kitten heard the water splash and relaxed. Luffy had become so vulnerable. But she wasn't surprised by that. Though, it broke her heart. Why had something terrible like that had to happen to such a wonderful person like Luffy? She didn't understand it at all.
Mikan coiled up in her basket and stared at the open door.
The room was big and spacious. That Hancock had given him a nice room. One side was completely glazed, therefore the room was flooded with light and you had a beautiful sight of the glittering sea. The bed was right in front of the window so you always had enough fresh air. Furthermore, the room had a desk with two chairs, a cupboard, the door to the bathroom and a big carpet in the middle. Mikan was sure, it had cost a fortune. The walls were painted in a soft yellow with strong orange and brown stripes here and there. All in all, the room appeared cozy, and that it was. The bed was gigantic and soft. Sleeping there was like a dream. It had felt like on clouds. And it easily fitted two persons.
Mikan closed her eyes but her senses were on guard. Of course, she had to protect her hero with everything she had at all costs. But she was tired, too, so she rested a little bit. It wasn't like the night was too short, but cats had a natural need to sleep more than a human being and Mikan knew she had a long day before her. But it would be beautiful, she was sure. After all, she'd be spending the day with Luffy.
Suddenly the water was turned off and she heard steps, skin being rubbed and then more steps. The cat opened her eyes, raised her head, and immediately wished she was asleep, because Luffy was standing there in the doorway. Without a towel. Completely naked.
She looked him in the eyes, but it just didn't work, she had to watch his whole body and when her look met his lower half she would have blushed if she had some cheeks; she jumped up and dashed under the bed. He was naked. Couldn't he, for heaven's sake, just put something on? She was a female, after all. And he not. That was really a shocking moment for Mikan to see her hero like that.
"Mikan?" his worried voice sounded.
Mikan meowed just for him to put something on and then come to her. But destiny seemingly hated her; Luffy did not put something on and walked over to the bed, squatted down so that his member was practically hanging in front of her and bended down. Mikan turned around and wanted to flee again, but Luffy's hand was faster and he pulled her out.
He examined her worriedly.
"What's wrong, Mikan?"
What did he think was wrong?
Luffy put his kitten on his bed, oblivious to her lowered head, so that she didn't have to see more than she wanted to see. But she had to say that his body was turning her on. It was a rarity to see him that generous and somehow it was worth the view.
She was fascinated and she did look at him again, she did not get such a view everyday after all, while he walked over to the cupboard, opened it and took out some fresh clothes.
Mikan found her hero very attractive. And appealing. Handsome. Sexy, even. He was so strong, muscular and still, it did not look snobbish. It looked decent. Yet, he was very manly.
She licked about her lips. She liked what she saw, really, because this person belonged to her –and only to her.
Full of pride she jumped up and walked to her savior. She coiled around his feet, nestled to them. Well, she was still a small, cuddly kitty which wanted attention.
Putting on a white shirt, Luffy couldn't resist this little bundle anymore.
He lifted her up and put her on his shoulder.
Mikan meowed; she seemed to like it up there.
They walked like that to the dining hall where they were apparently expected.
"Oh, good morning, Luffy-kun," Hancock fancied.
Luffy just smiled simply, "Morning. Could you bring Mikan milk and meat again, please?" With that said he left the woman again and dashed to the buffet. He was hungry like hell. And this time he managed to eat the whole kitchen stock. But he still wasn't fit enough because all the cooks remained standing, barely breaking a sweat.
Mikan was eating calmly. The milk tasted splendidly and the meat, well, if there was not anything else…
But she did fear that the meat could be poisoned concerning the looks she was getting from Hancock. But why was such a small, poor, cute kitty at fault that Luffy liked cats and not snakes? And well, Mikan was a cat and Luffy liked her a lot. Moreover, she was so cute and Luffy was her savior and she preserved him from losing his mind as well as his hope. She was able to save him. And maybe it was only her, who was able to help him –to be there for him –since he was making progress, even if it were small steps, but they were steps nevertheless. And sure, it would take a lot more time until Luffy could finally think freely again. But every little progress was a great step. They had reached so much with it. And no matter how long it took she would stay by his side, as long as he needed her. And even then she wouldn't leave him willingly.
"Ready?"
Luffy's voice brought her back to reality.
She licked her lips.
"Meow."
"I take that as a yes."
Luffy laughed cheerfully, put her on his shoulder and dashed out, being completely oblivious to the jealous and hurt look Hancock's.
"So, what should we do today?" Luffy asked when they reached the cliff.
Mikan had an idea.
She jumped down of his shoulder and started running in one direction.
"Wait, Mikan. Where are you going?" Luffy asked surprised. He followed her immediately.
She had quite the energy and speed, but he had much larger feet and Luffy did not have a problem with keeping up with her and making sure she was safe.
Mikan ran through the forest. She was led by her instincts. Besides, she loved running. And even more when Luffy was right next to her. It was really wonderful.
The kitten leapt into the trees and jumped from branch to branch. Had she not been playful, she would have listened to reason. But she was energetic and felt mischievous.
So, Mikan jumped over a branch, landing on all four feet on the ground, and turned the corner sharply. She wanted to play hide and seek with Luffy.
She ran in one direction and stopped when she didn't hear any footsteps anymore. Then she did hear some. They were very silent, though.
She jumped onto a tree trunk and climbed it up, digging her claws into the bark. She leapt over branches, being fully aware of Luffy knowing very well where she was. But she didn't want to make it easy for him. So she bounded from tree to tree and fled as fast as possible, looking for a hiding place. She knew very well that Luffy was not going to let something happen to her; he liked her too much for that matter. Didn't he?
Mikan stopped on a thin branch, which barely stood by her weight and waited. She listened and listened for Luffy, for anything, but did not hear anything. No Luffy, no steps. Just the rustling of the trees and the chirping of the birds. And suddenly she felt him behind her. She was faster than him, though; she dashed away again.
"Mikan", she heard behind her. "You don't honestly believe to be faster than me, do you?"
No, she didn't believe it, but it made him laugh.
He laughed with all his heart, even though it was still hinted with sorrow. But she didn't expect anything else. His wounds were deep and who knew if they were ever to heal completely. The chances seemed slim.
Mikan didn't give up though, and jumped faster, wider and increased the distance between the two of them. Luffy laughed again.
"Fine, fine, I accept the challenge."
He was not out of breath, just like her. Mikan would have grinned if she had been able to, because it was so much fun. With Luffy, everything was fun, especially this.
Mikan looked back, saw Luffy who effortlessly outran her, and she tripped over a branch, lost her balance and plummeted towards the water.
Oh, well, just water. Wait a second. Water? She looked down. Water? Water?
"!"
Just now was the time to save her, so just where the heck was this jerk?
As she flew towards the water, in her mind she already found herself there, being feebly carried away by the currents, or, if not by them, then she would drown pathetically. Because she hated water and she wasn't able to swim.
She squeezed her eyes shut, her paws tense, ready to sink below the blue surface, when something warm wrapped around her.
Finally, Luffy's hand.
She let out the breath she didn't know was holding, relieved when she found herself held close to his chest.
"Meoow," she said exhausted.
Luffy chuckled but his voice sounded blaming, too. "You should take care where you're running next time."
"Meoooow," she complained and pouted. It was his fault. He shouldn't have distracted her.
Luffy laughed, "Now, don't be like that, kitty." He pressed her head against his cheek. "I care for you."
"Meeow," Mikan responded and licked his cheek.
Luffy chuckled, "Oh yes, I like you much more like that."
Luffy took a look around, wanted to see where they had landed and found that where they stood was a beautiful place. It was a kind of a clearing being narrowed by the cliffs. The other side was full with trees and next to them was a beautiful waterfall with a small sea leading to another waterfall.
"You know what I'd like?"
Mikan looked at him, interested. "Meow?"
"To swim."
"Meow?"
Luffy looked down at her. "Yes."
The cat blinked. Did she hear right? Luffy and swimming? B-but, it did not mean he would put his clothes down, now would he?
Mikan observed with horror how Luffy stripped his shirt, then his jeans and then –she just could not look away –his boxer shorts. Mikan was paralyzed. The second time today. Blood would have flooded her nose had she been human. But she was a cat and why did she feel something like that anyway? And why him? He was hot, yes, and certainly wasn't lacking –especially between the legs –but what was she thinking? Wasn't one shock at a time enough?
With even bigger horror she saw Luffy approaching her, lifting her and walking with her to the small sea.
Mikan stopped breathing.
He did not want to do what she thought he wanted to, right?
It was not before she saw the water below her; she started kicking like crazy and tried to wind out of his grasp. She meowed, scratched and turned but Luffy's grip was iron.
"Mikan?"
She hated water but then she had to bathe with a naked Luffy?
The cat did not want to give up. Because he was naked. Maybe she should just leave her eyes closed. She definitely could not bear seeing Luffy naked and then be forced to bathe with him. She was a cat after all. And she felt abused. Her eyes were abused. Unconsciously, but still abused.
"What's wrong, kitty?"
Luffy sounded so soft, so sensual. And worried.
"Don't you like water?"
"Meow."
"You do? What is it then?"
"MEOW!"
Luffy looked at her, puzzled. "Now you're being complicated." He turned the head like an owl and watched her.
Mikan sighed. "Meoooooow…" she exclaimed tortured.
"What is it, Mikan? You have to tell me what ya want."
"Meow, meooow, meooooooooow."
Luffy looked at her wide-eyed. He seemed to think.
"You can understand me."
Wow. How quick-witted.
Mikan turned her head and looked. What did he say?
He blinked. "Don't you understand me, after all?"
Now, he was confused.
"Cats!" he exclaimed, sounding exasperated.
"Meooooooooooooooow, meow, meow, meeeeeoow." She nudged him with her paw softly. Would he put her down again? So that she could flee. Or at least until he was dressed again.
Luffy sat down and put Mikan on his knees so that she was halfway down the water.
Her hopes cracked like bubbles. Really. This straw hat was incredible.
What had she done to whom to be punished like that?
"You remind me of someone, you know?"
Mikan looked up. Only at his face. Right. She looked just up. Just up.
Lost in thought he stroke her fur.
"In my crew. You remind me of my navigator."
"Meow?"
"Yeah."
Luffy looked down at her. His face was void of all happiness again.
"But I lost her."
"Meow?"
Luffy was silent after that.
"Meow?" Mikan said again. "Meow!" she nudged him again, he should go on.
"I lost them all."
Mikan stood up and jumped on his shoulder, huddled against his neck and face.
"Meow!" She was there. Who else did he need when he had her?
Luffy smiled softly.
"Yeah, pretty girl. You're here."
"Meow." She licked his cheek encouragingly.
"But, you know, my crew means so much to me. I would do everything for them. And not just go through hell for them. I would do so much more, Mikan." His gaze lifted to the sky, and she watched as he closed his eyes, looking like he was in pain, heartbroken.
"Meow?"
"But they're gone now… And I don't know where they are or if I'll ever see them again."
"Meow."
He looked back down at her, "And I don't even know if they wanna see me…"
Mikan scratched his shoulder, hard. Then she licked the blood away.
Luffy looked surprised. Did she understand him, after all? Yeah, probably. His little angel.
"You're right. It's nonsense. Why should they not want to see me again?"
But no one had come after these horrid events. But, dammit, how stupid was he to believe that they did not want to see him again just because no one showed up here; how should they know where he was?
Luffy sighed.
"But I don't know how to confront them."
Mikan pressed herself more to him. She was there. Always.
"I was weak. I couldn't protect them nor Ace."
Something wet trickled down on her fur. She looked up. But it wasn't rain. On closer examination, she found Luffy crying. Silent, heavy tears.
She stood up and licked his cheek, licked his tears away.
"Meow." She said soothingly. And it really did sound like that – reassuringly.
"What if it'll happen again? And what if they'll die? Why if they are dead already?"
Mikan beat him with her paw, did not scratch him though. As if she wanted to tell him that it was bullshit what he said. But was it?
Luffy let the warm sun rays glisten on his back. But his face was in the shadows and the tears flew unceasingly down.
Mikan would have loved to say something but she only had the power to let acts speak. So, she jumped on his hat and pushed it down so that she fell into the water. Luffy needed to be reminded – reminded that he was not alone; that he had to fight because he had still much to do; that he didn't have to doubt anything or anyone.
Luffy caught the hat before it fell into the water. And Luffy was immediately affected. Because he really was reminded. He was reminded of his dream. Of his idol Shanks –and of his crew –that all of them still stuck to him. And of Nami…
He examined his hat. How often had he put it on Nami's head when she doubted the world just to gain new hope? For not being alone. For letting her know that he'll come back to get it back. Yeah, Nami was someone whom he really missed. She was someone special to him. But it was so terrible, not knowing if she was fine.
Lost in thought he looked down. Wait a moment, where was Mikan?
"Mikan!" he exclaimed startled when the cat didn't appear out of the water again.
He grasped into the water and pulled her out, laid her down on the ground and prayed silently for her to be fine. How did you revive a cat? He did not know. And, not for the first time, he wished to have Chopper here.
Mikan, though, decided for him when she started coughing up all the disgusting, sweet water.
Luffy fell down on the ground, completely exhausted, only the feet being in the water.
He had asked himself often why the water here did not affect him. It was weird since he felt in the water nearly like on the land. Not that weakened at all. Maybe the water here consisted of different components or maybe it was his broken mind that did not function well, anymore. Luffy gambled for the latter. His body had to deal with quite a lot. Maybe it had hit him so badly that functions like losing his power in the water were subdued. But who knew. For, surely, he had no clue.
Mikan stood up and shook her small body as hard as possible. The water splashed in all directions and hit even Luffy, but he only smiled since he did the same just seconds later. He shook like a wet dog. He could not really put on his clothes again, as wet as he was, now could he?
Mikan held her head vehemently turned to the other direction until being sure he was dressed again. A forth shock would have become too much for the little creature.
Day 15
"You know what, Mikan? I really miss my crew."
"Meow."
"Hmm, do you think so?"
"Meow."
"Hmm."
They sat on the cliff again and watched the sun go down. Luffy understood what Mikan said and he did not wonder as to why she understood him. Or why she answered him, in her way, but still she did.
They had spent the whole day out. They had run on the beach together, had done a footrace and had played hide and seek. Hancock got more jealous with every passing moment because Luffy only occupied himself with the cat. She resented Mikan even more because the cat helped Luffy while Hancock did not. Or at least Luffy let Mikan be near him, what was nearly a forbidden position to the empress.
"Do you think they miss me, too?"
Mikan nodded. "Meow."
"But …"
This wasn't like Luffy, to be all doubtful. He knew it himself. But the doubts belonged to him just like the pain and the agony were his shadow. But Mikan cast light onto that shadow, and he didn't doubt that often anymore. Or at least not that strongly anymore, anyways.
"Meow."
Mikan put her paw encouragingly on his stomach. "Meow."
Luffy smiled. "Yes, of course they miss me. Why should they not miss me, hm?"
"Meow."
"Shishishi."
Mikan purred and cuddled to his lap. She really made it comfortable. Even though she knew, just where she lied. But what would she do about it? Nothing.
Luffy grew silent again. He was lost in nothing but a blank mind as he continued watching the sunset.
Day 16
"Just what should I do, Mikan?"
It had been raining the whole day, which they had spent on the cliff once again.
Luffy was overwhelmed with something like a relapse. It just overpowered him. The remembrances, the feelings. It was all too much. He broke. He broke again. He broke right in front of her eyes and she couldn't do a damn thing about it. She could not help her great hero. She could not do more than just be there, then just let him know that he wasn't alone and that he needn't shoulder the entire burden by himself.
"I'm not strong enough, Mikan. How can I go on?"
She couldn't tell if it was just the rain or if he was crying.
"Meow."
The boy put his hand on her back. It was heavy with grief and weighed her down.
"But what should I do, Mikan?" His look was one full of despair. "Ace is dead." His voice broke. "He's dead and he's never gonna come back again. I even lost my crew."
He drooped. "And they haunt me. They all haunt me; punish me, for not being strong enough; for not being able to protect them."
"What should I do, Mikan?"
She nudged his hand, and then snuggled at his stomach. "Meow." What else could she add?
"What if they don't want to see me? What if I won't ever see them again? What if something happened to them, just because of me? I don't wanna be the reason for their misfortune." He sobbed. "I failed Ace already."
"Meow."
She nuzzled his tummy, licked him. Good heavens, he should stop feeling this agony. It tore her apart. It tore him apart, it broke him right in front of her and she couldn't do anything, but watch him breaking. And she hated herself for that.
"Meow!" she said, determined. "Meow!"
Luffy looked tearstained at her. "What?" he aspirated.
"Meow."
"I need to look forward?"
"Meow."
"But how if the past doesn't leave me alone?"
"Meow."
"No! I don't have all the time in the world!"
"Meow!"
"No, Mikan! You don't understand. I cannot stay here forever and hide. I need to get out of here. I still have so much to do. But how? How should I do it if the darkness floats above me and threatens to crush me every second? I'm a wreck; I cannot expect anyone to bear this all with me."
"Meow."
Luffy silenced.
"Meow."
He closed his eyes. "But what if it takes me too long? What if I don't heal? What if I break down out there?"
"Meow."
He cracked his eyes open and looked at Mikan, completely shocked.
"My … friends?"
"Meow."
His look grew tormented.
"I'm gonna be a burden for them. Especially, if I break down. Besides, I'm their captain. I mustn't break down. I need to be strong. If I break down, who would hold them together?"
Now Mikan grew silent. She didn't have a response to this.
"There. Not even you can tell me what to do."
Day 17
"Meow."
"What do you say, Mikan? You wanna stay in bed today?"
Luffy looked at her anxiously.
"But you didn't catch a cold, did you?"
"Meeow."
"Hmm, that's not good. I'm gonna take you to the doctor."
"Meow," the cat complained.
"If you're sick, you need to be treated."
Mikan made herself heavy on his flat stomach and eyed him dearly. "Meow."
"Fine, no doctor," Luffy gave up. "But if you're feeling just a bit worse you gotta tell me."
"Meow."
Luffy smiled. "What a well-behaved kitty."
It was still early in the morning, yet the sun illuminated the whole room. They had stayed long outside, yesterday. So long… until Mikan started sneezing. Then Luffy snapped out of his self pitying and brought her back.
Oh, she didn't like to remember it. Actually, he had taken a towel and scrubbed her clean and dry. And God, he touched her everywhere. Again, she had felt abused… even though it had felt nice, too. Still, she would have liked to have more privacy, but maybe it was asked a bit too much since she was just a little kitty.
The night proceeded peacefully. Luffy napped. Mikan kept a close watch on him and made sure he was calm. She didn't close one eye. She had guarded him. And she was really tired because of it. But it had been worth it.
Luffy seemed to be feeling better. She was glad because the cat really did not like a sad Luffy.
She closed her eyes and fell nearly instantly asleep.
Day 18
They had spent the previous day in bed, just like Mikan wanted to – besides going to eat, of course.
Though, today, Luffy absolutely needed to go out again. He needed movement. The boy felt trapped and constrained in the room. That's why he felt uneasy and started seeing things. Quite frankly, limitation made him go crazy. But Mikan had tried to distract him, as much as she was able to. It had helped a little bit, but the reality crashed against him time and time again.
But now they were free again. They walked through the big, wide forest, and Luffy felt a lot better. He stopped thinking, he didn't feel like being suffocated or smothered by his thoughts. He could breathe deeply and move. He could let his instincts take the lead again.
"Meow."
Mikan was walking right beside him but slowly fell behind, because he got faster and faster. And since she had such small feet, she wasn't able to keep up his speed.
Turning around, Luffy slowed down a bit to let her cross the distance between each other.
"You're lagging, my girl."
Laughing, he picked her up and put her over his shoulder.
"Come, let me show you what real speed is."
Grinning, he sped up and both dashed through the forest as if their lives depended on it. But it helped Luffy so much. He could exhaust himself physically; he knew he was free of responsibility; of burden – even if it were just momentarily…
He needed to do it or else the darkness would have crashed down on him again. On the one hand, it was a kind of training, to get stronger and faster, and on the other, it became his release. That way the feelings didn't rage, and he could think much more freely and cope with it. He needed this liberty. As long as he wasn't able to handle himself, and the world, he needed this.
Mikan didn't know how long they were running but eventually they ended up on the beach. For the first time she saw ships docked here at the island. And somehow it was logical, still, it surprised her. Even if she had thought about it, she didn't really expect other people here. She had only seen Hancock's women and no one else. Especially no other men beside Luffy and, on this ship, there were men.
She was taken aback when she found Law approaching them. Trafalgar Law. What was he doing here?
Luffy stopped and walked to him. Law looked at him thoughtfully.
"Hey, you're still here."
The ally grinned.
"Yeah, I thought it'd be better."
Mikan examined the man. He looked quite handsome. But Luffy was much better. Much hotter. There was no competition.
"Oh, what's this, a cute kitty-cat?"
She heard the sentence before she understood its meaning and was pulled from Luffy's shoulder and hold by her neck in the air. She watched a blonde man holding her and grinning at her until she felt sick. Suddenly, something inside of her felt very strange. She felt hot and cold, both at the same time; she trembled and instantly had great pain. But no sound left her mouth. Only blackness surrounded her.
When she opened her eyes again, a few seconds later when the pain was gone, everything felt so weird.
She was released of the man's grasp and fell in the sand. Her look wandered down and she gasped, horrified.
She had legs again. Human legs.
"N-Nami?" The trembling voice of her captain.
She froze.
Oh no.
Oh no, oh no, oh no.
Tears welled up in her eyes. Damn, he shouldn't have found out. Ever.
Slowly, the orange head turned around and wanted to look at him, but before she could something wrapped around her shoulders. Only then did she notice that she was completely naked, actually.
Appalled, she quickly put on Luffy's shirt but did not dare look behind her. It wasn't necessary anyways. Luffy turned and left for the forest.
"No! Luffy, wait! No!"
She yelled but he didn't listen. Nami jumped to her feet, ran two steps and stumbled about her own two feet. Her tears threatened to spill over. Watching his back as he disappeared made it hard to get back up and run after him.
What had she done? Just what had she done? Wilting, she looked sadly down at the sand, gripping the fine grains and closing her eyes shut tightly to fight back the tears.
Law withdrew with his crew and left Nami alone, never saying a single word. But she was fine with it. It was better this way anyhow.
Sniveling, she looked into the forest, hoping to recognize Luffy somewhere between the trees. But it was in vain. He was long gone.
Thus, Nami stood up and set off to Hancock's palace, since she needed clothing really urgently. She was cold and despite Luffy's shirt she still felt naked.
It's quite long but I hope you still liked it. Part 2 will follow sometime soon! I appreciate every kind of criticism. :D