2.
Missing. What does that word stand for? Missing as in somebody is gone... Never to be seen again? Or does it mean just for the time being?
It's been two weeks, since the banquet. Two weeks without him here. Everyone misses him. Dalton misses him. I miss him...
"Nami," A voice? Luffy?... No, it's just Sanji.
"Nami?...Nami can you hear me?"He asks. But the orange-haired women only continued to gaze outside the bedroom window, unmoving. The rain pours down harder outside, drops landing lightly on top of the ocean's still surface, kind of like it was matching her emotions. With a sigh, he plasters a fake genuine smile on his lips. "Hey, beautiful. I brought you something to eat. It's your favorite."The cook holding a steaming plate of roasted duck with tangerine sauce in one hand. I don't want it... Please, just leave me alone.
"Come on curly brows, she's not moving. Just leave the tray on top of the desk."Another male voice, she recognized by the gruffness as Zoro's."She has to eat sometime. It's been days, Let's just leave, she probably doesn't want us watching her."Zoro says, sadly. Sanji sighs from his spot beside the bed.
"Mosshead, you go on ahead back to the others. I'm going to stay here for a little bit longer with her."Zoro doesn't bother to argue with his rival right now. So instead. The swordsmen does as he was asked. Once alone, Sanji's attention turned back to Nami."So..."
"He is coming back Sanji.."The pirate queen lowers her head as a few tears run down her cheeks."He has to."Sanji moved closer so he could rest his hand on her delicate shoulder.
"Of course he will. It is Luffy we are talking about. No pirate is gonna keep him locked away for long."Nami tried to force herself to smile at his sarcastic comment. But she couldn't even manage that either. She felt like her entire world was crumbling a little more and more each day without her husband with her. They both became silent after that, Sanji used the time to pull a cigarette out of his coat pocket, placing it between his lips before replacing his hand back inside to retrieve his gold lighter.
"Sanji?"
"Yes, Nami-Swan."The cook answered calmly, forgetting about his lighter and instead focusing his attention back on her. This was the most she had been talking to anyone since he and Zoro had come back from the island deeply wounded and without their captain. He couldn't afford to lose this opportunity, if he did, he was sure she would withdraw back into herself. After a few seconds of silence and a deep frown on her face to him, she seemed to be thinking about her next choice words.
The blond had taken the time to look more carefully at her shallow appearance. Her skin had turned a sickly pale color, she had lost so much weight her cheekbones had started to stand out more. The once beautiful brightened and lively brown eyes had become empty and dull. Her bright orange hair had a few gray stress strands going through it. Which was odd for someone of only twenty-four years old. In simple words, she was like a shadow of her former self.
It hurt him more than words could describe to seen any women this amount of physical or mental pain. Nami didn't deserve this either did her baby, who hadn't stopped crying since his father had been gone. It was like he could sense it. Dalton had only quieted down when he slept or when he was closest near to his mother. The poor kid had indeed been affected most. Even at three months old he was smart enough to understand his surroundings more than some others had. Which surprised everyone including Nami. "Could you... Could you look after Dalton."
Sanji's eyes widened, shocked by her strange request."Huh?"Nami still wasn't looking at her companion at all. Her bangs covered half her face from view. But her hands had balled into fist squeezing the sheet that was on top of her lap."I-I don't understand what you're saying Nami."
"If Luffy doesn't end up coming back. If something happens to me too. Will you look after Dalton for me?"Sanji couldn't ever have imagined that his beloved Nami could have said something so outrageously stupid. Anger spiked at his heart. His teeth crushed down on the cigarette that was still between his lips. His saliva mixed in with the bits of tobacco making a revolting taste fill his mouth. But he ignored it. His own hands balled into a fist, as he tried to conceal the anger at her words. He was practically shaking. What had she meant by those words, was she thinking of harming herself?
"Sanji. I-"Without warning the cook reached over, grabbing her by her nightgown, he pulled her into his arms. His arms wrapped around her small frame. One on her lower back and the other holding the back of her neck tangling in her hair. Keeping her locked in place. Nami didn't return the hug she was to shocked by the fast movement and the sudden warm embrace to move a muscle."H-Hey-"She wiggled trying to adjust her position.
"Don't,"She stilled at the hard command."Don't fight me... I know it's hard to lose someone you love, without knowing what happened to them. I know every-time you breathe it hurts. The unknowing hurts. But you can't just give up Nami. Luffy and Dalton need you to be strong, I'm so sorry Zoro and I didn't try harder to stop them from taking him. But i promise you. We will get him back."He felt her tears soak through his shirt."I swear to you, whoever is the mastermind of this will pay dearly."He pecked a kiss on her forehead after she gave a slight nod, holding him close to her. As if she was afraid he was gonna disappear also.
"I just want him back. They can keep fucking everything. I just want my husband back Sanji."Loud wails escape her, as her friend was helpless to do anything but rub her back and rock her gently. His chin rested on top of her head as she curled herself up into a ball.
"I know... Shh... I know." With that said they went into a content silence, Sanji held the orange haired navigator close to him till she finally managed to fall asleep in his arms. He lightly pulled away from her, unwrapping her thin arms from around his abdomen, cradling her head as he lowered it to rest back on the soft bed of pillows. A small smile graced his lips at the sight. Her bright orange hair flowed around like a halo, long eyelashes rested against her cheeks, her skin at somehow got a strange peaceful glow about it. He traces the outline of her cheek before tucking her hair behind her ear.
"Why do you always have to make me worry about you. Huh," Sanji frowns slightly, pulling his hand away."I swear Nami, the next time he makes you feel like this. I'll take you away, and this time I won't give you back."With that said the cook retreats out of the room without a final look nor thought.
The golden colored door shut behind him, with a soft click sound. He sighed reaching into his pocket and grabbing another cigarette and lighter.
"You won't give her back next time huh?"Startled by the gruff sounding voice. Sanji begins to fumble frantically with the objects in hand, trying not to drop them."I don't think our dear captain would be happy about those words. Curly brows."Zoro stood there, leaning with his back against the wall and arms folded. His eyes were closed like he was in thought about something serious. And Sanji didn't know how long the man had been standing there exactly.
"Just speakin' the truth. I'm not saying it's gonna happen..."Zoro slid Shusui out from its scabbard slowly pushing himself from the wall. Opening his dark orbs, he throws a glared at the other male.
"And here I thought you've actually grown some real respect for Luffy after all these years."The green haired man clicked his tongue disapprovingly."I was wrong I guess."Sanji shakes his head, choosing to ignore him.
"You think what you want mosshead. But I know full well, she's off limits. At least as long as Luffy breathes, and we all know that's gonna be a very long time. So you can relax, put your shit away and just leave me alone."With that response said. Sanji resumes to lit his cigarette and takes a long pull. Zoro never said anything else he just went back to his spot guarding the door, shoving his sword back in place.
The two of them just waited on either side. Which made Zoro on the left and Sanji on the right, they basked in peaceful silence. Releasing a cloud of clear smoke from his lips, dark blue eyes moved back toward the other shipmate."Do you think, we're ever gonna find him, Alive at least?" The question lingered between them for a couple of minutes before Zoro sighed.
"It's been weeks, nothing is known for sure. But, somehow I have the feeling his alive. Probably wounded but alive all the same."The cook had known that would've already been the answer, the feeling was mutual for him. It was like a sixth sense now, the connection between the captain and his crew has been the most supernatural bond that let them sense Luffy's emotions. So where ever he was, he had to be close.
The two men picked up the sounds of tall high heels hitting against the wooden floor of the hallway, and of a baby giggling, heading towards them. They stayed mute after their exchange and waited for the person to show them self.
When whoever it was rounded the corner, it was clear, the mystery person was Robin, dressed in a short black dress, with a silver belt around her waist, and a pair of silver knee-high boots. She had Dalton in her arms, he was dressed in a blue shirt, dark gray denim jeans and baby white converse. "Hello, boys."She greeted with a smile.
"Robin."The both of them replied in unison.
Sanji stepped forward and held out his arms for the laughing baby."The little guy is in good spirits today."
"Yeah, his been like this all morning. It must mean something good."Robin said before handed him off. "How is she?"
"There hasn't been any change in her emotional state. Not that I'm blaming her but, she needs to get out of the room and get some fresh seawater air."All of them agreed with that statement.
"You guys take the kid, go ahead and get breakfast started okay. I'll see if I can get her to step outside."
"She's sleeping right now."Sanji quickly intervened, stepping in front of the door, blocking the older women from entering."It'd be best to leave her like that. For now."Robin gave him an knowing look but complied with his request. Zoro scoffed grabbing the blonde by the back of his shirt.
"Yeah, so... Come on, Curly brows, let's go I'm starting to get hungry."The pair of shipmates glared at one another like always for awhile, seeing the opportunity Robin smirked slyly. Since her prey was distracted, she slipped past them but, made the time to run her left hand across the lower half of Zoro's bare torso. His black orbs widened in surprise and he quickly stepped back a couple of inches. Sanji notices, a looks on with a confused head tilt.
"Stop."He coughed into his fist to try to hide his blush.
"Come on, green boy. You know you love it."
"Um...Well. I'm gonna go get started on dinner. Robin, good luck with that."Sanji high fives her and laughs before making a steady retreat down the hall.
Zoro on the other hand blushes a dark red color sending a glare at both of them.
Robin smirked seductively once more at him. Once Sanji and Dalton were out of sight.
"That was inappropriate. Even for you, Robin."She raised an eyebrow as he got closer to her with every word.
"Oh yeah, am I as inappropriate as I was at the bar yesterday?"They closed the distance, their lips inches apart.
"You're even worst."
~X~
~Back in the bedroom with Nami~
"Nami~"
"I'm in love with you Nami."Serious Dark brown eyes stared heatedly into my own.
"I'm gonna be a father? Shishishi this should be a great adventure."A contagious wide one of a kind smile.
"Marry me, be my queen."Spiky mess of black hair.
"I wanna thank you, for getting me here. And now, I'm finally the king of the pirates!"A X shaped scar barely cover by a red cardigan.
"I promise, I'll always be there to cherish you... To protect you and our baby... To make love to you... to comfort you in your time of need, to help you whenever you are ill. I promise to never leave you."A strong hand placing a diamond wedding band on my finger.
"Honeymoon time, hehe."A smirking figure standing at the end of my bed slowly unbuttoning his suit pants.
"Welcome to the world, my son, Monkey D. Dalton. The Prince of the pirates. He's gonna be a huge badass someday. Just like me."Strong arms cradling a blue blanket covered baby.
"I love you Nami. And I love our son. Forever."His smooth tanned skin, touching my own.
"No matter what I'm gonna come back to you. Don't give up hope."Him kissing me goodbye...
"Luffy!"I jolted awake, covered in sweat and panting heavily. My eyes looked around frantically searching for him. Before my mind finally registered where I was. Which was still on the sunny of course. Disappointed dread quickly filled the emptiness I felt inside me. Oh, right, his not here... Not anymore.
I sighed, breathing the smell of tangerine sauce covered duck. My stomach rumbled profusely. But I couldn't help but ignore it. Besides the duck is probably cold now. The events of my dream flood back to me and tears well in my eyes. Luffy... Please.
I bit my bottom lip to keep from crying out. Please, Please, come back.
"You're awake. That's good... I brought you some extra smooth chocolate ice cream."
"Thank you, Robin, but I don't want any."She sat down on the edge of the bed and shoved the small tube into my folded hands.
"That's too bad. I'm not gonna leave until you eat it."I had to give it to her, My best friend's resolve was envious. I know it must be hard for her to see me like this, and I wish I could say, there would be coming back from this, but I don't think I can.
"Robin,"I whined dramatically, throwing my self back against the mattress.
"Nami."
"Fine. Only a couple of mouth fulls."She smirked in satisfaction, handing me a spoon as I ripped the lid off the container."Will you be joining everyone on deck later?"I asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Yeah. We're still trying to figure out where we are going to go... It is pretty hard to sail without a navigator to tell you which direction."The black haired women chuckled while shaking her head."But luckily for us, Sabo and Koala have decided to come aboard to help."
I sighed swallowing the frozen treat."I'm sorry. If you want to, you can bring me a map, and give me some details about how many islands we pasted, the distraction we've been going since we left and something to drink. I could find out where the next closest island is."She gave me a baffled but somehow grateful look.
"Really? that's great if you are feeling up to it Nami."
"Y-yeah, of course. It would suck if we ended up getting lost in the middle of the ocean."I laughed nervously, scratching my head."On a different topic... How is everybody holding up out there?" Robin shook her head is what I think was exasperation.
"Where do i begin... Usopp hasn't been his usual talkative self, usually keeps himself locked up in his workshop. Franky has been working like crazy on a new invention that tracks none alley ships approaching us to quickly and that can identify them good or bad, with the help of a new piece of technology that has data on every known pirate and their ship's Jolly Roger on the seas,"She paused momentarily, giving me a look out of the corner of her eye.
I smiled encouraging her to continue."Zoro usually keeps himself busy by training around in the ship, hardly ever takes any naps anymore which makes me a little worried about him... Brook is hauled up in the library writing new song lyrics, Chopper is making a new healing pill that can help wounds close faster. Sanji and Carrot have been busy in the kitchen all day just to keep themselves from going crazy.
"And Dalton?"I ask questionably, with some hope I could see him tonight. My best friend gave me a small smile.
"Just as goofy as his father, but he has been on the downside lately."
I nodded with downcast eyes."I see."Robin places a hand on my own, making me meet her clear blue orbs.
"Hey, he is waiting for you to come and see him whenever you decide to leave this room, you know?"As if on cue, I hear a loud joyful baby laugh coming what I assumed to be the kitchen located underneath my room."See? His just fine, but I bet he would be absolutely excited to finally see you again after a week."My eyes widened and my mouth dropped.
"A week!"I exclaimed, mentally slapping myself."I'm a terrible, terrible mother. Oh my god. What kind of person am I? To neglect my own child."As I went on and on Robin just shook her head with a tiny smile on her face, watching me rant out my surprise and horror. Friends, Ugh!
~X~
{OFF P.O.V}
[Location: Unknown, Setting; inside a dark brig of a large dark colored pirate ship that sailed through the dark ocean, it's one-eyed Jolly Roger flew high on the mast. Some crew members were walking around on the deck.]
"AAARRRGGGHHH!... AHHH!"A scream sounded through the clear night sky, it's owner currently tied down to what seemed to be a operating table. He was blind folded, his blood covered every inch of his body. A large gaping wound on the left side of his abdomen, looked heavily infected and deep. But he still somehow had the strength to struggle against his bounds.
His wrist had small daggers made of sea-prison stone through them holding him down. Through the shadows of the cell a tall figure smirked, and look toward the shorter gray-haired man standing next to him. "Excellent job, Xiūbó, I couldn't of having asked for a better gift on my birthday."He sneered evilly, watching on at the torture of the young dark haired pirate.
"Of course, sir, only the best is to be expected on your crew."Xiūbó chuckled, folding his arms.
"Yes, but what of his crew, Where are they now?"The tall unknown man asked. This made the shorter one sweat nervously as his captain's aura turn lethal wind around him.
"Hmm, our other ships haven't spotted them anywhere near here. And without their captain to lead them. It's safe to assume they're gone. Sir."
"I see. But, knowing their last encounters with past enemies, they have a track record of showing up at the last second,"The captain starts to pace with one hand holding his chin in thought.
"Um, c-captain? May I suggest we just send out more ships to look for them in the direction they escaped from the island?"
"Aaaarrrghhh! Let me GGOOO!"Upon hearing them talk about his family, Luffy struggled more ruthlessly against the knives and the thick leather straps restraining him."Whoever the fuck you are, your...urghh... gonna...PAAYYY!"The pirate king growled like a wild animal locked up in a cage.
A sea- prison stone, metal wire held his head and legs down against the table. Xiūbó smirked and stepped towards him, before picking up a scalpel from a metal surgical table next to the bed. "Good luck with trying to free yourself first straw-hat. But, then again I seriously doubt that you will succeed."As he said each word, he reached across and ran the blade of the scalpel through the gaping hole on Luffy's side."Besides... Even if you manage to get loose, you won't even be that much of a challenge to us. A half beaten, half-dead pirate like you, can't and won't save your crew of what awaits them. And your wife will make a-."
"JUST SHUT THE HELL UP ALREADY!"Xiūbó blinked in surprise at the wounded man's unexpected outburst, shooting a look to his captain who was standing beside him.
"You're wrong a half beaten half dead pirate like me..."Luffy paused for a second to gain control over his heavy breathing. Further shocking his captors, as his trademark toothy smile slowly spread across his lips."Will never lose to a guy like you."Blinking past his surprise Xiūbó grins at the threat.
"Like I said, good luck with living long enough to fulfill that promise."With that, Xiūbó plunged the sharp object through an unharmed part of the rubber man's skin. Underneath the X shaped scar, he made sure the knife didn't go too far in to harm any vital parts but far enough, blood poured out like water pouring out of a tap. Luffy clenched his teeth together through the pain. He mentally pushed past it and in his mind's eye, he could see her, feel her, touch her. She was his better place, the place where he would go to get away from this pain and torture. The thought of finally being reunited with her and their son again kept him alive for this long.
"Alright then, Xiūbó. I'm gonna go check on our lookout points. Make sure to treat our guest with the best of care."The mysterious captain finally removes his cloak showing a head of spiky blackish/navy colored hair.
"Yes, Captain Makoto. I'll try my best sir."Xiūbó smirked hearing Luffy's sharp intake of breath.
"Captain Makoto?..."The twenty three-year-old, gasped out in disbelief, he knew he heard that name from somewhere."Makoto... Makoto..."Come on, brain think, I know I heard it before. "Wait! I know you, we met you a year ago while Nami and I were searching for a new island to settle down. And call home."Captain Makoto, smirked reaching over the shorter man, to rip off Luffy's blindfold. Luffy blinked through the bright light of the lamp that was shining down on him, the glare of it hurting his eyes for a second before his vision cleared as he got used to it and his dark eyes found light colored blue one staring down at him.
"Hello, again straw-hat."