Authors note: So yeah I'm back with another one-shot. As you can see I have already improved my writing, for I know posses the knowledge to make an author's note! First off I'd like to thank Meloisz, Nodame-chan, jaden74 and scarletlovecharlie for reviewing my first ever story. My first intention was to make this a mindless bundle of one-shots that have no connection with each other, however scarletlovecharlie got me thinking about maybe adding more chapters for "the bet." Probably goanna name it "the bet part 2 or part B" or something like that. You'll recognize it. So I've been a bit lazy with writing this, because from here on out I'd also like to start with a longer story and I've been toying around with some ideas. As for this chapter I tried to get some experience in writing about fights along with a little drama. All for the purpose of future fic's. It takes place during the fishman island arc, during the battle with the New fishman Pirates. I'd like to make clear that this fic is based off the manga, for I have yet to watch the anime version of this, heard things about it being different and all. That being said… SPOILERS! Lots of em. If you haven't watched or read this arc yet and don't want new attacks or a part of the story spoiled don't read this! And if you do.. enjoy.
The worry.
"Because I hated Humans even a little, I failed to notice the grudge of Fishman district." Fukaboshi's voice sounded trough the static. "And before I realized it had turned into such a great power that we cannot suppress it!" His voice was shaky and his body gave away the sobs he tried to keep hidden so desperately. The wounds caused by Hody Jones were causing him maddening pain, but he couldn't give in. "haah…. haah… If we keep going like this, fishman island will destroy itself through our hatred against humans! …. Straw hat…haah… please….. We don't need a past! Please set it back to zero!"
.o0o.
"Will it reach it in time?" one of the air tank personnel asked. "It has to reach it in time!"
"Calm down!" his superior yelled at him "While it is true that the bubble we just shot at Noah is our last hope of stopping it… We can't lose our faith! Too much is depending on this. We are part of Neptune's army so pull yourself together private!"
"But Noah is the legendary ship of promises!" another whined "It's half the size of the island for crying out loud! If it doesn't work then..then-"
"Then we lose all that we have" he calmly interrupted " If Noah were to crash down into the plaza, the one hundred thousand new fishman pirates will die along with the strawhats, Jinbe and Neptune's forces. Not to mention that the protective bubble surrounding fishman island will undoubtedly break under the ship's pressure. The sea-current would wash away our homes along with what would remain of the island"
"Then why the hell are you so relaxed?!"
"It's like I said before, that bubble is the last hope we have. Worrying is meaningless because we have done all we can for now. Now we wait, and we hope."
As if on cue the bubble made contact with Noah and quickly encased the legendary ship inside it, letting out a faint "Fhump" sound along the way.
"Yes we got the air in!" the entire personnel cheered. "That means Fishman island is one step closer to being saved!"
"I'm so relieved" the superior cried as tears streamed down his face in a comedic fashion. "I really thought we were dead there for a second."
"You were worried!"the personnel yelled while slapping the air.
"Well whatever" the superior resumed while looking at the result "All that matters now is that Noah stopped for now"
.o0o.
"By your hands! Set Fishman island back… to zero!"
"Jahahaha" Hody's mocking laugh thundered through the waters. "Keep on spouting your bullshit Fukaboshi, the grudge held by the fishman race will last forever! Jahahahaha!"
"Brohoshi" the sound of Luffy's voice now filled the plaza trough a denden-mushi. "If you are willing to let me do what I want… Then don't worry… from the moment we got to the plaza…"
"Luffy-kun" Jinbei said "What happens to Fishman island is in your hands now"
"…we decided with Jinbei…"
Letting out a puff of smoke Sanji scowled "Che, about time you let something hear of you Shithead."
"…That we wouldn't let anyone harm Fishman island…."
"Luffy.." Nami muttered under her breath "You idiot, making me worry about you again.." With a quick motion a string small black bubbles shot out of her clima-tact. "Black ball"
"watch out!" one of the fishmen pirated yelled. "She's going to do it again, stay away from those bubbles!"
"Raiun Rod!" She yelled. With another quick motion the bubbles burst and small black clouds started to form. Connecting, the clouds began to rumble as thunder ran through them, electrocuting dozens of unlucky fishman pirates in the process.
"…Leave everything to me Brohoshi…"
"Just finish it already slow-ass" a grumpy Zoro said while slashing his opponent. "fighting these weaklings is a waste of time."
…"We're friends, right?"
.o0o.
"Luffy-sama, the air has reached Noah!" a scared Shirahoshi yelled "And Hody-sama is getting awfully close!"
"Okay Weakyhoshi" Luffy said while clinging one hand to his wounded shoulder. He had been too careless. His Busoshoku Haki gave great protection against brawling attacks and blunt weapons, but it still wasn't strong enough to keep off those steroid enhanced jaws Hody carried around. And now he was feeling the consequences of it. "stay close so you won't get hurt." He clenched his fist.
"O-o-okay" she muttered while slightly blushing over his protectiveness.
"I'll end this in a flash!" he yelled while stretching his right arm backwards.
"Nothing will end!" Hody thundered "We have the legendary drug bestowed upon us by the heavens!" Rushing towards the raven haired teen as fast as he could, he was grinning with a psychotic look on his face.
"Gear second" A small pump appeared on the straw hat's stretched out arm which quickly bolted back. His skin turned red. Steam started to emit from his arm. "Armament" a black aura covered the steaming arm, trapping said steam between his arm and the aura. Causing extreme heat to build up.
"Gomu Gomu no…."
"I'm going to bite of that arm next!"
His arm shot forward at extreme speed, the new friction causing his right arms to sprout flames. "Red Hawk!"
The burning fist collided with Hody's abdomen and made a small explosion burst from his back. The giant fishman let out a terrorizing scream of pain as Luffy's attack literary shot through his body, only to get silenced as the full force of the attack shot him back miles, straight through the protective bubble covering Noah. The sheer force made him crash trough the upper deck.
"It's not over yet!" Luffy yelled. "Full speed Weakyhoshi, you need to take me to Noah!"
"Okay!" she answered.
.o0o.
"Jaha..hah..haa" Slowly picking himself up, the fishman struggled trying to find his balance. He felt as if a bomb had just exploded inside his gut. How did this happen? He had captured the king and the princes, raised an army, manipulated the legendary kraken to join him, had successfully dragged the Straw hat out into the water, his territory. On top of that he had gained unimaginable power, able to blow away an entire squadron of Neptune's army with a single drop of water. He was the embodiment of how fish men should retaliate against the lower humans and pride less fishmen. He was what the heavens had yearned for!
Yet that boy had shown up, had freed the king, tamed the kraken with simple words, crushed half his army without lifting a finger. And now, now he had smashed him into a bloody, scorching pulp. That final attack had gone straight through his stomach, scorched his organs and left third degree burns on his back. This couldn't be, humans were lowly creatures that were meant to be ruled over. They couldn't master such power. No, no matter what he had to carry out the revenge on humans, it was his destiny. He searched his pockets for his secret weapon. There were enough of them left, at least a handful of the blessed drug that had granted him his power.
With great difficulty he brought the small pills to his mouth, chomping and swallowing them down. Instantly the burning pain ceased and a spurt of energy shot through his body. He was fully focused in mind again, and the pills would greatly increase his power once again. But his body was still torn up by the attacks of the Straw hat and had difficulty keeping up with his commands. It mattered not, if that last attack the Straw hat fired at him was his best, then victory was in reach.
"Ah, Air!" the straw hat said between gasps. He had finally entered the bubble and breathing had never felt so satisfying. Not wasting his time Luffy brought his right hand up and placed his thumb between his teeth. He bit down. "Gear third" he muttered. Immediately blowing an immense amount of air through the freshly made opening in his thumb. His arm grew multiple times its own size.
Catching on to the growing threat that was now Luffy's giant fist Hody quickly retaliated with his own attack. "Increasing his size like that will slow him down dramatically." He thought. Smashing his own fists into the deck of Noah, he made an opening for water to leak out. With a quick swipe of his hands the water started to bend to his will. "fishman jiu-jitsu, water heart." With immense force his hands shot forward, bringing obedient splashes of water with him. "Murasame!" The splashes quickly reformed themselves into shark shaped attacks. Making it seem as if a pack of predators shot forward at the Straw hat.
Seeing the threat approach, Luffy wasted no time. Pushing his feet off against the deck of Noah he launched himself several feet into the air. Much to the amazement of Hody he had easily dodged the attack and created a perfect chance to retaliate. "Armament" he whispered. The same black aura that had appeared during the Red hawk attack now covered the giant fist. "Gomu Gomu no.."
Still amazed that the Straw hat had avoided his most powerful attack so easily the Shark fishman failed to see the giant fist hovering a few feet away. When he realized his eyes widened in shock.
"Elephant Gun!"
The fist crashed through the deck of Noah, taking Hody's limp body with him. The sheer power of the attack breaking most of his bones. Before losing conciseness his final thoughts rung "Fall Noah…fishmen have lost their pride…kill every last one of them!"
Luffy didn't stop. No, he stretched his arm further, giving his fist even more force as it plowed trough the wooden frame of the ship.
.o0o.
"It's still going?" one of the air tank personnel asked. "If he doesn't stop then…"
"He's planning on destroying it!" another yelled in realization. "The legendary giant boat!"
"Can he really do that?"
"We're about to find out" his superior called. "for now all we can do is tell the people on the island what's happening."
"Right" picking up the speaker he spoke. "Incoming update! The "Straw hat" Luffy is currently in the waters above the island. He… He's destroying Noah. He is protecting the island!... Furthermore… Hody Jones, captain of the new fishman pirates was just defeated by Luffy-san!"
.o0o.
His fist connected with the wooden frame of Noah once again. And again. And again. The pain in his shoulder increased with each blow, blood started to come out but he didn't care. There was something much more important at stake.
"Luffy-sama" Shirahoshi yelled distraught "His wound is opening!"
The bite marks tore open more and more, blood was now gushing out. Still he didn't notice.
"Gomu Gomu noooo…."
Half the air in his right arm had shifted into his left. The black aura now covered both his arms. With immense force both fists now started to crash into the boat, each time faster and with more power. Settling a barrage of punches into the wood.
"Elephant Gatling~!"
.o0o.
"As expected from Luffy's crew" Jinbei said solemnly. Looking over the battlefield, sights were seen that would make a normal person feel nauseous. Fishmen with third degree burns caused by lightning based attacks. Twisted limbs, courtesy of Robin's Hane-Hane no mi. The commanding officers weren't off much better. Dosun and Darum were beaten to a bloody pulp by Chopper and Usopp. Much the squid was pretty much fried to a crisp thanks to Franky. Zeo and Hyouzou both slashed to shreds by Zoro and Brook. And finally Wadatsumi, the fishman that easily outmatched giants in size was now dropping from the sky with scars covering his entire body. Landing with a grand "thud." as if to indicate the strawhat's victory.
"you should have made him fall further away, you stupid cook." Zoro scowled.
"Shut the hell up moss-head. Should I have dropped him on your head instead?!" Sanji retorted.
"You're so awesome Sanji" Chopper wooed still in his monster point. "And the Franky beam was amazing!" he and Ussop both yelled.
"Oi Chopper" Franky called "Shrink down a bit, you're making my robot look like nothing"
"What purpose did that robot even have…" Robin questioned.
"Everyone sure has improved their skills a lot" Nami thought with a smile. "I guess we all classify as monsters now. Now Luffy just has to smash that boat and we're home fr-"
"Nami-san" brook joyfully interjected "Please put on a miniskirt, so th-"
He was interrupted with a foot to his face. "Shut your trap" the navigator seethed.
She sighed. Monsters or not they were still the same idiots. Idiots that annoyed the living hell out of her at times and could make her laugh seconds after. People who would always be there for her and support her. Her friends, her family, And deep down she loved them for it. Not that she would admit it. O hell no, with the exception of Robin they'd just act to weird. After those two years Sanji would probably die of a nosebleed if she so much as mentioned he was a nice guy. Zoro 't probably just look at her weird and say something along the lines of "You're just trying to raise my debt, aren't you?" Chopper would do his cute little dance, Ussop would probably lie about how she was one of the millions of ladies whose heart he stole, Franky would probably just do one of his "SUPA!" poses, Brook would just ask for a peek at panties.
And Luffy, well he wouldn't understand the kind of love she felt for him. It was the same as the rest of the crew, yet completely different. When she was around the other guys, butterflies didn't try to burst out her stomach, and a funny feeling in her chest wouldn't appear. Something she donned as "mystery feeling." It had been like that for a long time now. Even before they got separated, but back then it hadn't been as strong. No, back then it had enraged her that she had allowed herself to fall for her savior like some horny schoolgirl. Their dreams were much more important than those stupid desires. She had brushed it off as a small crush on the captain, something that should have faded during their time apart.
It didn't. When taking breaks from studying the weather of the New world or training her new techniques her thoughts would always drift, to their adventures, to the crew, to him. She tried to ignore it but to no avail, they'd always find a way back to her mind. She wanted to go back so desperately, be back at his side.
When the news of Ace's death was brought out, a new pain found a place in her heart. Ace dying had shocked her at first, but that didn't matter at that moment. Then nothing else seemed to matter. She had had wanted, no needed to go to her captain, be there for him, comfort him in any way she could. Thoughts of jumping off the small sky-island into the sea below had seemed pretty reasonable at that moment, aside from the fact that the force of the impact would have killed her.
When she was later locked inside that bubble-prison for trying to steal one of the old mages their vehicles along with some other items, her teacher Haridas had questioned her sudden switch of mood. Seeing no way out she had let her tears flow freely in desperation, letting out some of the pain as a last resort to gain some sympathy from the old men. When it was let out the pain didn't cease, it had gotten much worse. Reality had finally sunk in. He had fought, he had fought an unbearable battle against the top of the world to save his brother, only to watch him die right before his eyes. Images of her captain being hurt, beaten or even killed made the pain unbearable. It was as if someone tore her heart out.
Her plan had worked in the end, they had unlocked the cage and in a few minutes she was up and about with her new hostage Haridas to try it again. Only to later find out that Luffy was alright. He was alright and had requested from her to stay where she was for two years. Two years without him, away from his silly grin, his stupid antics and away from his heart of gold. It had hurt, just thinking about not being able to see him. Maybe it was then when she realized why she wanted to be near him so desperately. It wasn't because he was her captain, not because he saved her, but because of another reason.
"Noah's already fallen that far!"
The Strawhat's stopped in their "cheering" moods to see that Noah was now closely hovering above the plaza. Luffy's voice now thundered throughout the plaza as his attack continued.
"If he can smash apart Noah, he can save the island… but he has to hurry..."
"Stop that boat!" his voice thundered.
.o0o.
The entire plaza watched in amazement at the scene before them. Noah the legendary ship of promises, the boat that was half the size of an island was being dragged away by the most gigantic sea kings they had ever seen.
"what. the. Heck!" Ussop screamed. His eyes almost bulging out his sockets. "Why are sea kings dragging the ship?!"
"How the hell should we know?!" Half the plaza yelled.
"I don't know how to explain this but, without a doubt Noah has stopped!... fishman island is saved!"
"Chopper, are you okay?" Robin asked.
"Yeah, I'm okay." The tiny reindeer had reverted back to his original brain point form and was now resting his head on the archeologist's lap. "If I use monster point my body is so exhausted that I can't walk for two to three hours. I can perform treatments though, is everyone unharmed?"
"I don't want to hear that from you" Zoro just stated.
Nami remained silent, her gaze transfixed on the sky, waiting for the captain to appear. Any second he could show up, goofy grin plastered to his face, cheering in victory. She was lying to herself. She could feel it somehow."Something isn't right"
"Robin-chwan~, I also used a big move so I'm all spend!" Sanji swooned, practically begging Robin for him to rest his head in the same spot as Chopper.
"That's desperate, even for you" Franky said.
"What was that?!"
"waaaaaaah~" Shirahoshi's cries were heard from miles away.
"It's Luffy-san" brook joyfully called "He's returned with the princess!"
"Please save him!" she screamed. "Luffy-sama won't stop bleeding! In her hands she held an unconscious strawhat wearing man who was covered in a thick red liquid. "He…he pushed himself to much hard for our sakes!" She laid him down on the ground next to Chopper as her sobs became louder.
"This is bad." Said doctor called. "Robin there's material in my backpack to stop the bleeding. But as I am now I can't reach for it."
"I'll handle the supplies" Robin said "You just focus on operating, doctor-san."
"calm down" Nami thought to herself. "calm down. Chopper is going to fix him, like he always does. Besides he's been trough worse than this" yet her hands wouldn't stop shaking and her heartbeat wouldn't stop rocketing as he laid there half dead.
"Can you save Luffy-sama?" the princess cried. Giant tears dropped down to the floor, leaving loud splashing sounds as they fell.
Chopper didn't answer. He seemed to be in his own little world as he operated on the young Strawhat, softly noting the process to what seemed himself. Finally he snapped his eyes up. "I can close up the wounds, but he's bled out a lot. He needs a blood transfusion. Luffy's blood type is F."
"And in our group, Luffy's the only one with F type blood." Sanji stated.
"Oooi" Franky yelled towards the little crowd of civilians that had watched over the battle. "Does anyone in the plaza have blood type F?"
"I've got F" a fishman thought "but the law says…"
"My blood type is F" a mermaid thought "but I can't…"
"Ah that's right" Chopper squealed. " According to this island's law, it's forbidden to give blood to a human."
"W-what?!" Everyone yelled.
"That can't be! Nami yelled distraught. What's up with that law! If we don't hurry then.. then.." her gaze shifted to her captain. "Luffy.." "No, no not like this! He's supposed to become pirate king! He's supposed to have a long and happy life with us!" She looked back at the small audience "Anyone! We will do anything!… just… just help us save our captain!" None of the spectators stepped forward. A few turned away with pained expressions, but nobody was willing to break the law. To save the one who had just protected their homes. "Please…" she desperately called. Tears stung her eyes and a feeling of despair started to well up. This couldn't be happening. They won the battle, didn't they? That had to account for something! He was supposed to be fine. They had just met up again for crying out loud! Was she brought back to his side only to have him ripped away once again? What had been the point of those two years of training if they still lost each other. No, no, no she had never even told him… "Luffy.."
"My blood type is F" Jinbei spoke up as he made his way towards their group. "Use as much as you need."
"Jinbei-san!" The crowd yelled surprised. "B-b-but the law…"
"Ah, it is forbidden by law for Fishmen to share their blood with humans" he spoke. He sat down next to Chopper and lifted up his right underarm, revealing his precious blood veins. "But then again, I am a pirate."
No sounds of protest were heard. Instead cheering made its way out of the crowd of bystanders "Boss Jinbei!" they all yelled happily.
Choppers treatment was swift and effective. In a few minutes time he had Luffy hooked up on life-support and his skin started to show some color again. Nami had stayed next to him and refused to leave his side during the quick recovery. When Zoro bluntly asked why, she had send a death glare his way and had hissed something that sounded like "Because." Robin had chuckled at the navigator in response, but she hadn't noticed.
"Jinbei…" Luffy's voice sounded weakly as his friends blood was slowly pumped into his veins.
"Luffyyyyy~" some of his crewmates yelled relieved.
"Oh, so you were awake huh?" Jinbei said jokingly.
.o0o.
"Eat! Drink! Sing! Dance!" the king yelled "Enjoy yourselves to your heart's content, because tonight we party in celebration of our hero's!"
Nami looked over the last-minute feast with a smile. Fishmen sure knew how to throw a party. A few hours ago they had been fighting in an all-out war for the control of this island, and now they were partying in a castle, dancing with mermaids while enjoying the musical pleasures of Maria Napole, who was revered to as the number one diva of the seas. Her voice was magical to say the least, the rhythm giving off an enchanting tone that seemed to soothe your very soul. The others also seemed to be enjoying themselves. Luffy was enjoying a drink with Ussop and the king while chomping on a piece of meat. Robin seemed to be discussing trivial matters with one of the ministers. Brook enjoyed getting smooches on his cheeks from a mermaid, while a concerned Chopper was hovering over a rock-hard Sanji. No not like that, as in literally turned to stone. Zoro and Franky were enjoying bottles of Sake with Hatchan the octopus fishman. It still amazed her that she now actually appreciated the company of him. Three years ago he had still been one of her oppressors. One of the nicer ones at that, but still. Then again a lot had changed, and they had all grown. In physical appearance and as people. Having been freed from the chains other people forced them into and been able to live for their dreams really brought happiness to ones soul. All thanks to one straw hat wearing idiot. How close they had been to lose that same idiot just a few hours ago.
She sighed. Partying wasn't on her mind right now, but seeing everyone enjoy themselves, she didn't want to be a mood kill.
Something else came into her sights. One of the princes, Fukaboshi was beating some of his subordinates in a drinking contest. They all seemed pretty hammered, except for the prince himself who seemed top sober. She grinned maliciously. "Hey you!" she yelled "Yeah prince Fukaboshi was it? How about a drinking contest between you and me?"
"Ha bring it on Straw-hat pirate! " he answered "Let's see how you handle your booze!"
Ten minutes later he was lying on his back, eyes swirly, clearly hammered. He gurgled things like "Impossible" and "alcohol woman" under loud laughter of the navigator.
"You owe me twenty thousand Beli for losing" she said seriously before returning to laughter. Nothing quite took the stress off as winning a few bets. Especially when there was some Beli involved.
Looking back at the party something seemed off. Let's see, Franky was still drinking with Hatchan and they were now joined by Usopp. Sanji and Brook still dancing with mermaids and Chopper was enjoying something they referred to as "Fishman island's special sweets" while talking to Jinbei. Zoro was sitting in a corner scowling with a red face at Robin, who was chuckling back at him. Probably taking up her old hobby of teasing the swordsman. The smile on her face vanished. The only one she couldn't see was Luffy. It wasn't like him to leave a party before it ended. "has he gone to change his bandages?" She thought "No he would need Chopper for that.." The thought of his wounds gave her a weird feeling in the pit of her stomach."Where the hell did he go?"She started to look around the room. After she searched the entirety of it there was still no sign of him. She couldn't shake the fear of him somehow getting hurt again. Safe in a castle or not, he'd find a way to get into trouble. She left the party to search other rooms. "Where are you?" Still no sign of him. She started to panic. "Where are you, you idiot?"
"Oi Chopper" Usopp called "where'd Luffy go?"
"Ah, he told me he went out for some air" the reindeer-man answered.
"Luffy? But he never goes out when there's a party going on."
"He probably hasn't fully recovered from earlier today"
"Ah I see." He said with a smile "Good thing too, if a wound that big did nothing to him, he wouldn't be human."
"A normal human wouldn't even be able to walk with that big a wound!" Chopper yelled at him.
.o0o.
"Ouch" Luffy stated as he looked over the railing of a small balcony. The wound Hody had delivered earlier still hurt. Who knew someone could bite that hard? Today had been a close call after all. His carelessness had almost been his final mistake. "Kinda weird to think that I almost died… Oh well there should be plenty of strong guys where we're headed. Better I find out now." He hadn't room to complain. He had protected his nakama as he promised and now they were having a party for their victory. Plus he was still alive and kicking, and according to Chopper his wound would completely heal up. Besides it would only really hurt when something pressed against the wound. So nothing to regret what so ever about today.
"Where are you.. Where are you… Where the hell are you!" Nami's thoughts raced through her head. She was now running throughout the corridor of the castle, giving quick glances to the rooms she passed only to see time and time again that he wasn't there. When she searched the final room her desperation reached a peak. "Not here either.. " Then where? Where was he? Had he been so idiotic as to leave the protective bubble that covered the Ryuugu palace? Was he now floating unconscious somewhere in the ocean, thanks to his devil fruit? He couldn't be that stupid, could he?
"Ouch"
His voice. She heard his voice, or rather a small indication of pain. It had come from the last door that was in the corridor, the one that led outside. She raced towards said door, almost bashing through it as she quickly opened it. Eyes softening when she laid them on him. There he was standing perfectly safe on a decorated balcony, close to the protective bubble that kept the ocean water from seeping his strength. He was leaning a small railing while looking into the deep blue. She had to admit he had a taste for views, the water looked positively enchanting this deep underwater. But complimenting him was one of the last things on her mind right now. Setting her sights on him had triggered something in her head, something familiar. That same feeling at the pit of her stomach returned, but much stronger. Not only was it stronger but she now recognized what it was. Something she had to live with for two years when being away from him. Not being able to let it out since he was the only one who deserved it. How had she not seen this before? She lowered her head so it was covered by the bangs of her hair. The feeling in her stomach only intensified as she made her way over to him, shortening the distance between each other. She had to do it now, this was the perfect moment for just the two of them.
"Luffy" she called quietly.
Luffy jerked away from his thoughts at the sound of his name . Recognizing the voice of his navigator wasn't that hard after all. Turning around he joyfully spoke "Oh hey Nami, whatch'a do-"
He was interrupted by an open hand slapping him full across the face. Head snapping in the same direction as the hand guided him. Looking at her completely thrown off he couldn't see her in the eyes since the bangs of her hair still shadowed them. Slowly he turned his head back towards her, own eyes widened in shock. "Oi, what the hell?" were the only words that found their way out.
Her arm made its way over to him again, this time in the form of a fist. Using her full force to crash it into his chest. She had realized what that feeling in the pit of her stomach was alright. Fear. Fear of him getting hurt again, of getting killed. She had been too happy when they met up again and too surprised by their increase of power. "Idiot!" She had turned a blind eye towards the fear of losing him, to what happened in the past. But the incident earlier today had clearly shown that he could still die, still get gnawed, maimed or stabbed. All because he was so damn reckless. It had reminded her of her feelings along with something else. Anger. Pure unrivaled anger towards the captain for his stupid actions. She finally had the chance let out the rage she felt after reading his message in the papers. "Two years Luffy!" she screamed "After everything we've been through" she punched him again. "you just abandon us for two years to go training! How can you be so goddamn selfish!"
"S-selfish? What did I d-" he tried only to receive another fist to the chest, this time accidently hitting one of Hody's bite marks, making him wince in pain. "Ouch, stop it Nami that hurts!"
"We get separated" her voice now sounding a lot less filled with anger. It was the only guide he had towards figuring out why she was acting like this, since her hair still covered her eyes. "and all you just leave with is a message saying we should leave you alone for two years?!"
She kept throwing punches at the Strawhat, but he didn't take the effort to dodge. There wasn't any strength behind them anymore. "After everything that happened to you?" Something had snapped inside him, made him realize why she might try to hurt him so badly. "And then you have the balls to almost die right after we meet up again? What the hell is wrong with you!" The beating ceased and one hand had grabbed on to his cardigan. She turned her face away from him. Had her hair not shadowed her eyes he could have sworn he saw a tear. "How do you think that feels to the people next to you?" It hurt. It hurt him seeing her like this.
"N-Nami, I had t-" She punched him again with her free hand, but much less coordinated.
"Shut up!" She screamed. Her voice was now sounding desperate, as if she was on the verge of crying. "Don't give me that, you always act like this! It doesn't matter if it's Crocodile or Moria or a marine admiral, you always end up half dead in bandages!"
She had always believed in him during his fights with Crocodile and Moria, trusted him to be alright and come out the victor. And time and time again he proven her right in winning those battles. But something she could never accept were the injuries he had to suffer for them. Then there was the news of the war two years ago, the one battle in which he had come closer to death than ever before. One shichibukai and an admiral had been enough to make the entire crew of nine squirm. There were seven of those warlords and three admirals along with thousands of marine soldiers, all of them set on taking his life. And he was alone, no friends, no crew to back him up. It was him against the world. The thought of losing him had been unbearable. Yet the possibility of it had been great enough. Every newspaper she read would have an article saying how the marines honorably destroyed the Whitebeard pirates, while also taking out the menace that was Monkey D. Luffy. "always having to put yourself in harm's way for others…"
She turned to face him again. As if on command, the hair swiped aside and revealed her saddened eyes. Seeing her like this, had made Luffy want to punch himself. The girl with a smile he could only compare to an angel was nowhere to be seen. Her mouth had curved downwards and her lower lip was trembling. Tears were gathering up. Her eyes didn't carry the fire they usually did, they were desperate. "When the news of you fighting in the war came out, I…I thought…"
"Nami"
"I thought I'd never see you again!" Tears started to roll down her cheeks. "I have so much I want to tell you, but you just keep on disappearing! You rush into a war like it's nothing, challenge monsters without thinking! You tell me not to throw my life away, yet you keep on putting yourself in danger for the same reasons!" She brought her arms up and for a second Luffy thought the beatings would resume. Only to find them wrap around his torso and Nami burying her face in his chest. His eyes widened in shock. She never did something like this, had it affected her this much? Between sobs she whispered " You're so selfish… I almost lost you again today… Did it ever even occur how worried I was about you?"
"Nami I.." he started to calm down, before wrapping his arms around her waist and returning the hug. He pulled her in tight, pressing her entire body against his own in a comforting gesture. He had been wrong, one of his Nakama did get hurt. Not a physical wound, but one to her heart, and in the end it was his fault. "..I'm not leaving again…Not now, not when we face enemies, not when I become pirate king."
"I missed you so much, you idiot." She buried her face further in his chest. "How can I know you won't be gone again tomorrow?"
Reaching out one hand and placing under her chin he brought her face up so she stared directly into his eyes. He used his thumb to wipe away the tears, and gave her a comforting smile. She nearly gasped when she met his gaze. The look in his eyes was warm, soothing even, and for a moment he seemed like a complete adult. Always serving as an emotional anchor for those around him. Being able to make someone's desperation vanish without even knowing about it. It was something she had missed the most during their time apart. "I promise you Nami, no matter what happens from here on out, I will stay by your side, always. Until you no longer want me there."
"Luffy…" she whispered. She was at a loss of words. When did he become so mature? Was this guy the same idiotic boy who thought putting shark teeth in his mouth would make him stronger? Or who thought it would be smart to pour Sake on his first mate to make him feel better? She had thought that he would be the last person to grow up. A sad realization struck that she might have missed more than just his little growth spurt. In two years that same idiotic boy without a care in the world had grown into a fully mature man. Not just in body, but also in mind. Sure he'd still act without thinking things over, and treat everything like it was a game, but now she had gotten a glimpse of what rested under that carefree attitude. Undeterred spirit, a kind and gentle soul that wanted to live life to the fullest, along with an iron will to protect the lives of people important to him.
She moved her head forward, bringing her face closer to his while slowly shutting her eyes. Their noses slightly brushing against each other as she gently pressed her lips against his. Immediately her heart started to beat in a faster rhythm, pounding against her chest like there was no tomorrow. At first he didn't react, probably shocked by sudden move his navigator made. However after a moment he seemed to realize what was going on and started to press back against her soft lips. She mentally laughed to herself, thinking how stupid it was that she even for a second had thought he would run away if she did something like this. Leaning in a bit forward he deepened the kiss. Nami could feel herself become lightheaded and her knees grow weak. Acting on instinct made him surprisingly good at this. She gave off sweet hums of approval as he stuck his tongue out and caressed her own with it. She liked doing this and feeling how passionate he kissed back, she got a feeling he enjoyed it just as much. But it would have to wait. Despite her every desire she pulled away from the kiss, making him look at her a bit confused.
"Luffy" she smiled warmly at him. "thank you."
"Shishishi" he laughed. "don't worry about it Nami"
Her smile grew warmer at the sound of his laughter. That sound she had also missed very much. A silly, childish laugh that was contagious to anyone who heard it. Still entangled in their tight hug they both laughed at what happened a moment earlier. Maybe not even knowing why they did it, but both knowing they wanted to. She might have missed those two years with him, but she was going to make up for it starting now. She leaned in closer once again, ready to claim those kissable lips again and-.
"Ahem-" it sounded behind them.
Nami froze in her action and immediately turned her head towards the soon to be dead man who had the guts to interrupt them. Her face becoming red with shame when it turned out half the crew had been watching their "little escapade" along with a certain ex-shichibukai. Silence filled the balcony, and a good time for the navigator to way her options. All of the viewers seemed visually shocked. Jinbei was nervously scratching his cheek, probably not sure if calling out to them had been such a good idea. Sanji was sulking on the floor sobbing things like "Why Nami-san" and "Lucky captain." Ussop was making apologizing gestures as to say 'please don't hurt me' and finally there was Zoro who just had a devious smirk on his face. "killing them all would take away half the crew... In that case I'll just have to charge them for this later."
"Luffy-kun" Jinbei suddenly spoke, thus breaking the much to awkward silence. "I, eumh, wanted to talk to you about something."
"How long-" Nami tried.
"About the same time you started to burry your tongue in our captains mouth" Zoro stated.
"T-t-that never happened!" she yelled flustered.
"Or was it the other way around?" A mocking tone was noticeable about the swordsman's question. He was quite enjoying this. "Geeh captain I never knew you were doing our navigator~"
He was interrupted by a sudden fist stomping him into the ground. "Shut up!"
Zoro laid there limply on the ground while a demon-like Nami hovered over him with a crimson red face. A ridiculously giant lump growing on the back of his head he just answered: "Hai, sorry for the intrusion."
The End
Author's note: Okay that's it. Yeah I cut out large parts of the story, but please bear with me. This alone was almost 7.000 words and if I included every detail of the story we'd probably be up to 20.000 words by now. Plus this way I didn't spoil every move and how the sea kings come to save Noah and so on. This was very new for me having to put a bit of drama into things so it may seem a bit cliché or cheesy. Please review and again flames are welcome. Now on to pressing matters I had multiple ideas for longer fic's and hoped you could help me decide on things. All will have Luna in them.
Men of darkness: Forced to pay off a family debt, Nami joins the criminal circuit in the ranks of Arlong's gang at night, while also having to live a high school life by day. All seems to go well, until she draws out the attention of a well known assassin from a much greater gang. A cold-hearted killer? Or is there more to this 'Mugiwara?' Modern day fic. Rated M for cold blooded murder, cursing and possible lemon.
No title as of yet: In a twist of events the monster trio gets kidnapped and dragged off to an unknown island. The remaining Straw-hat members give chase after their crewmates, only to find that the three aren't set on leaving the island. Also rated M for the same reasons.
Among the wastes: Growing up in a vault, Nami's life has never met any difficulty other than listening to your elders and squashing a radroach once in a while. After a horrible incident she is the first to open the gate of vault 1001 and set out into the wasteland, only to find that living out there is near impossible. However when she meets a certain raven-haired wastelander things might start to look up for her. Will teaching this girl the nicks of survival help said man in his quest, or will she end up being the thing that gets him killed in this cold-hearted world? Sort of a One Piece/fallout/apocalypse Fic. Not yet sure if rated T or M.
See what you like best and if you were reviewing, cast a vote to what you might like to see.
For now I say peace out.