Here is the next chapter, and it took me forever to write, but it's also very long. I hope it's to your satisfaction. I enjoyed writing it, most of the time.
This takes time over a few days, but I will not name them this time, since it's a bit of a paus between them, like with Sanji's part, or Smoker's in the end. (Still struggling with explaining things, without spoiling them)
And I must say I loved writing Marco and Sanji's moment, just as I loved writing Sanji's memory! Alos loved to write Smoker and Ace moments, and Marco's moment with his father and brothers! I just had so many fun moments in this!
Liked writing Sabo and Law's as well. And first I thought about writing the torturing scene, but I thought it would be better if you imagined it yourself, so you could think of what you thought of as awful. Because if it was me, well it would be a very lengthy scene with a lot of blood, gore, burning and things, and it would just be boring for you to read.
Luffy changing his mind, well that's just Luffy being Luffy.
However, I did like this chapter I need to apologise for Zoro and Ace scen with Sanji. I struggled with it, and I think it could have been better if I gave it more time, but I am not sure, and I wanted to post the chapter, so hope you survive.
The scene in the end, well I struggled a bit with it as well, I had fun writing it, I really did, and you will get more with them, but yeah, hope you survive that as well.
Gwent, is from Witcher original, just thought it would be funny having them play it.
Hm, besides that I don't think I have much more to say. I am looking forward to write the next chapter, but I can't tell you when I will have the time. But hope you like when I have this many characters in one, but don't get to used to it. They will go back to being smaller groups soon.
As always, thank you for reading and reviewing!
Enjoy :)
"Have you lost your mind?" Ace voice was only a few notes away from being a scream. "You will die! Look what happened the last time"
"I strongly advise you to do such thing" Sabo acted far more calmer than Ace, even if Luffy knew he was as angry as the other one.
"Did you damage your brain when you got hurt? Do you even know what you are saying?" Ace had started shouting, making Sabo's words disappear. "I forbid you!"
Luffy was about to answer Ace that he was old enough to made his own decisions.
"Mugiwara-Ya" Senguko's words was barely higher than a whisper, but they still cut through Ace's yelling, and the fire user went silent, as the surgeon walked over to Luffy's bed. "Listen closely because I am only going to say this once."
Luffy smiled as he nodded, waiting to hear the other man's plan on how they would kill the Vinsmoke's.
"Stay away from the Vinsmoke's, or you will die" the word was a cold command, and Luffy, just as his brothers all starred at the surgeon, not believing what he just said.
"But I wish to help Sanji" Luffy finally uttered with a smile.
"If you wish to help him, stay alive, he has lost enough people already!"
"But he is in danger, we need to help him! We need to do something!" Luffy insisted still smiling, resulting in a cold look from the surgeon.
"And what do you think I am doing?"
"But they are still alive!"
"Not all of them! And you want to start a war, with an enemy you know nothing about. It will get you killed, and if you wish to die, leave Sanji out of it! You know nothing about him, what he has been through, don't claim to do things for someone if you don't know them! You are nothing more than a naïve, spoiled boy, who don't know how life or this city works, take your dreams somewhere else, and realise what kind of world we are living in!" Luffy's smile finally faltered, trying to find something to answer the Surgeon, but his mind went blank, as the older man left the room. Luffy sank back to the pillows, feeling how his eyes started watering. All he had wished for was to help his friend, as he did with all his friends. He saw how Sabo left the room after the surgeon, while Ace muttered far from flattering words about the dark haired man.
"Don't listen to him Luffy" Ace tried to console him, but Luffy knew that he secretly was happy that Senguko hindered him from going after the Vinsmoke's. Luffy placed the blanket over his face as Ace laid down next to him, holding him.
"Law!" Sabo's voice echoed through the corridor, making the other man stop. Sabo could tell that he expected some sort of lecture from him, something he was far from pleased with. Though Sabo had no such intentions. "Thank you"
Law met his eyes, without any kind of reactions, and Sabo decided to continue.
"I may not approve of your methods, but I rather have my brother's feelings hurt, than being forced to bury him" Sabo offered the taller man a smile, the first genuine one. Law had yet to react, and he let his eyes wonder from Sabo's towards the door he just passed through.
"I may not call Sanji my brother, but that doesn't mean I don't know how to be one" Law only answered him, honestly and Sabo smiled again. Despite the rumours about the man in front of him, rumours who was more than true, Sabo understood that the man was human and cared about people, very few, but he still cared.
"I appreciate it"
"I didn't do it for you, or for Mugiwara-Ya, I did it for Sanji" Law only answered, and Sabo nodded, accepting it. At that moment he didn't care all too much for the reason, as long as his brother was safe.
"Of that I am aware, however; I do still appreciate the result" Sabo uttered before he gave the other man once last smile and returned towards his brothers.
"Has he woken?" Law didn't manage to take more than one step inside his office before Sanji was at his side. Law gave the blond a calm, but warm smile.
"He has" Law closed the door behind him, seeing that Cora-San had returned to the room after Law asked them all to leave, most likely to inform Sanji. "He is still weak, but he will, as long as he is careful, be alright"
Sanji pulled him into a hug, and Law placed his arms around his friend, feeling how relived he was. He had told Mugiwara-Ya the truth, Sanji had lost enough people, and Law knew how much Sanji would have blamed himself if the boy died. Law had no problem in threatening people, but he normally didn't do it for a good reason. He knew there was a chance that Sanji would be angry at him, if he got any knowledge of what he said to the boy. But as long as Luffy was alive, Sanji wouldn't need to go through what he has went through before. If he got angry at him because of it, well Law couldn't care less.
"Can I see him?" Sanji asked and Law looked at him, knowing that Sanji, indirectly asked if he could follow him there. Under any other circumstance, he would have followed him, but after threating the boy, merely minutes ago, he felt it wasn't a good idea.
"If it would be alright with you, I can go with you Sanji" Cora-San looked at both his sons and Law felt relieved that his father offered. Sanji looked at them both, and he gave Law a smile, understanding that something wasn't alright with his friend.
"Thank you" Sanji was grateful that Cora-San offered, just because he preferred and often sought out Law's company, didn't mean he didn't loved Cora-San's.
"Nothing to thank me for" he said as they left Law's office.
As they entered the room, they saw that Hawkins was there, besides the brothers and Marco.
"Hi" Hawkins smiled towards them. "I borrowed your kitchen Sanji, I hope that's alright?"
Sanji nodded towards the other man. Despite that Hawkins had stayed with them for a while now, he rarely talked to the other man, mostly to the fact that he preferred not to talk to strangers at all.
"Sanji!" Luffy interrupted Ace when he was about to say something and smiled towards the other boy.
"You are not permitted to leave your bed!" Sabo hindered Luffy from getting out of bed as he wanted to walk over to Sanji. Sanji was still standing a few feet's away, not feeling all too comfortable to walk closer, due to the looks Ace was given him. However; Cora-San must have sensed that Sanji wished to walk closer, so he placed his hands on his shoulders and started pushing him gently closer to the other boy.
"Wow, he is so tall!" Luffy looked at Cora-San with the biggest smile and earned a smile back. "Is he Bepo or Cora-San?"
"Cora-San" he offered the young boy his hand.
"Hi, I am Luffy" Cora-San nodded, to show that he already know that.
"I must thank you for helping Sanji" Sanji blushed when the tall man said that, but Cora-San just hugged him from behind, making the blonde smile instead.
"He is my friend, I couldn't leave him there" Luffy answered. Cora-San could tell that the boy was about to say something else but hindered himself. Cora-San couldn't hinder himself from thinking that was Law's doing, and he smiled a small smile.
"How about we leave them to talk?" it may be masked as a gentle question, but Cora-San left no room for arguing, even if Ace tried, as Marco more or less forced him to leave the room. Sabo was more accepting, wiling to leave his brother alone with his friend, for a few minutes, and he admitted he was curious about the tall man, named or at least called Cora-San.
"Are you alright?" despite that the others had informed him that Sanji was safe, he wanted to make sure.
"I am" Sanji's voice was low, him being ashamed "Thank you for saving me"
"You would have done the same" Luffy sounded sure, but upon hearing those words, Sanji could only laugh.
"No I wouldn't, I can't fight, I would have run" Sanji didn't meet Luffy's eyes, but it didn't seem to bother the boy.
"I don't believe that, I am sure you would have helped if you could. If someone come for Senguko you would try to help him" Luffy was convinced that Sanji would try to do his best, the other man may not be able to do much, but he would at least try. It was true that the city was ruled by the strong, but that also meant that you sometimes needed to do things others didn't dare or wanted, so maybe you were better of not being strong.
Sanji become quiet and Luffy only studied him, it was so much he didn't know about the other one. He could hear Senguko's words, ringing in his head. He has lost enough people already. Luffy knew he couldn't ask the blonde about it, or rather any of the things he has been through, knowing that the other one wouldn't take it well. He hadn't seen much of what Sanji's brothers did to him, but the few minutes he saw was enough to make him angry. Despite what had happened, he could still see Sanji's frightened expression. Luffy couldn't hinder himself from blaming himself, if he hadn't dragged Sanji away, it would never have happened, and Sanji wouldn't look as sad as he did now.
"I am sorry" uttering those words, made Sanji face him once more.
"Why?" Sanji didn't follow, not understanding what Luffy had to be sorry for.
"I dragged you out, made it possible for them to find you"
"There is always a chance for them to find me, so that isn't your fault" Sanji knew the risk he was taking when he left the apartment or hospital, even when he was with Law or Cora-San.
"But…" Luffy started when Sanji carefully took his hands.
"Don't do that, don't blame yourself!" Sanji almost begged. "This isn't your fault, it's just what they do! They attack and kill everyone around me, everyone they can"
Luffy saw how Sanji fought the tears from leaving his eyes, and he wanted nothing more then pull him into a hug, but for Sanji just to take his hands, to comfort him, Luffy knew that was a big step.
"That isn't your fault" Luffy tried to comfort him.
"It is. If I hadn't run away, if I hadn't meet Zeff or you or anyone else, no one would have gotten hurt. I should have just stayed with them" Sanji started to ramble and Luffy tried to hear what he was saying, as he started talking faster and faster. "Law wouldn't have me as well to take care of, he has enough already."
"Sanji…" Luffy tried to calm his friend when Sanji suddenly let go of his hand and stood up.
"I can't see you anymore Luffy, I should never had" Sanji didn't give him a chance to react, or even answering him, before Sanji was at the door.
"SANJI!" Luffy shouted as the blond left the room.
Cora-San was leaning against the wall, with the other four standing in front of him. Ace was glancing at the door, as he wanted to burst through it any second, only being hindered by Marco.
"If he does anything, I will kill him" Ace muttered in a low whisper, one everyone could hear.
"Oh boy, don't say things like that around him" Hawkins gave Cora-San a smile as the tall man lighted a cigarette, without catching fire for once. Ace met Cora-San's eyes and seemed to remember the cold look from a few days ago and he turned away.
"Don't mind him" Sabo tried, offering Cora-San a smile.
"I will try, he don't seem to know any better" was all he answered, which earned him a smile from Marco and Sabo, much to Ace annoyance. Suddenly they heard Luffy call out Sanji's name, only seconds before the blonde stormed out of the room, without looking at them, disappearing down the corridor. Cora-San didn't even look at the others before he started walking after his son, only to soon realise he wasn't alone.
"Mind if I accompany you?" Marco asked and Cora-San thought about it for a second.
"I let Sanji decide that" was all he answered as he kept walking, trying to think where his son could have escaped.
Cora-San almost felt to the ground as he stopped, realising what Sanji would have gone, his eyes become filled with horror as he turned around and started running. Marco didn't utter a word, but he sensed something was wrong.
"Bepo, get Law" Cora-San almost shouted at the bear as he was passing him. Bepo who was talking to his friends, met his eyes, understanding that something was wrong.
"Where?" was the only thing he asked.
"The entrance, we are going out, if he can't see us, tell him we are going east" Cora-San didn't slow down, and he almost fell to the ground once more, when they rushed down the stairs, and he would have done so if Marco hadn't caught him, as they kept running. Cora-San was soon outside, followed by Marco.
"Where too?" the other man only asked and Cora-San tried to think, had Sanji a plan, or had he just ran. Cora-San took a deep breath, staying calm, it wasn't his first mission, he was worried about Sanji, but he had learned to push away any feelings he may have, when he was on a mission. He looked at Marco, wondering what his best option was. They could split up, hoping to find Sanji faster, but did he trust Marco enough not to hurt Sanji. It was true that the other man hadn't done anything to hurt Sanji, but he had then been in a building with other people, if he trusted Marco enough to go on his own, he would be all alone with Sanji. However Cora-San know that they needed to find Sanji as fast as they could.
"You go that direction, while I go this way" Cora-San gave him a calm look, showing that he trusted Marco enough not to hurt his son, but also to ensure him that he would end him if he hurt him. Marco nodded, taken by surprise that the other man trusted him enough to let him go on his own. He understood that it was a difficult decision, and Marco had no intention to let him down.
"Any particularly place I should look?" Marco needed to know before he ran off. Cora-San seemed to think about it.
"No, just try to find him before he reaches Big Mom's district" Marco nodded in response, showing that he understood before he went in the opposite direction from the taller man.
He had no direct plan as he rushed through the streets, if he was honest to himself, his knowledge about Law's district was limited. He rarely entered here, if ever. These past days was the first time he really spent there. Before Law had taken over, it had been an uncontrollable area, one of the worst in town. To be fair, Marco couldn't understand the reason for Law to bring his family there, however he admitted that the younger man had managed to get his district under control, better than some others had. But despite that the man had made it better, few visited it. Even if Whitebeard hadn't forbidden it, he wouldn't have walked there. Though he admitted it had been helpful at this moment, searching for the man, he couldn't be all too sure how far he had before he crossed into Big Mom's district. He knew where the boarder was, as it faced the other districts, but here it wasn't as clear to him. He would most likely notice when he entered Big Mom's district, however he hoped he would find Sanji before that, if he found him at all.
He was still surprised that Cora-San had trusted him enough, to send him on his way. The thought of that made him smile. It was true that he belonged to one of the strongest gang in town, but despite that he liked to think he was a gentle and trusting man, as long as you didn't do anything to change that. Law was an enemy to them, and since Cora-San was a part of his family, he should be looked up on as the same, however the taller man had done nothing to make Marco think of him as an enemy. To be honest, none of them had tried to get rid of them, they had treated them as well as the situation allowed, even with Ace there. How they had treated them was one of the reasons he wished to help them, knowing how worried you could be when someone in your family went missing, knowing all too well. Ace had given him plenty of reason to worry over the year. But it was only part of the reason, the other part was that he liked Sanji, he was a friendly, despite being withdrawn man, which had its reasons. And he was far from sure what he had been through, but he felt like the man didn't deserve any of it, not wishing to see the town, and his family ruin him anymore. Marco hated what this town did to people, he couldn't help everyone, he was aware of that, but he could at least try to help Sanji get back to his family, he thought as he kept running.
Law was standing outside, trying not to panic as he knew that his best friend was out there somewhere, just as his fucking family was. For a second he felt like doing what Mugiwara-Ya had said, kill them all. It was his goal, but not something he could do right now. He couldn't run into Big Mom's district and search for the Vinsmoke's, and try to kill them. He hadn't seen Cora-San and Marco, but he knew they went towards the east, the fastest way towards Big Mom's district. As Bepo had, with an apologising voice told him what Cora-San had said, Law understood what Sanji was trying to do, and he knew that they needed to find him.
"We are coming with you!" Law turned around to see Hawkins and his men standing there, together with Bepo and his friends.
"No" he stated and he saw that they were about to protest. "I need you to protect this place, if any one comes here, help Mugiwara-Ya and his brothers"
He knew that if he got Sanji back and his friend had died, the situation could evolve to something he didn't prefer think off. Law gave Bepo a look and the bear nodded, knowing that if something happened, he was allowed to take them all to the safe room.
"Find him" Bepo begged and Law couldn't hinder himself from smiling towards the bear, before he patted him on his head.
"I will" he then turned towards Hawkins, who calmly looked at him. "Be prepared for the worst"
"I have started to be prepared for the worst, since I started to hangout around you" he tried to joke and Law just gave him a cold look before the others returned into the building. And Law turned his gaze up towards the balcony over the entrance, feeling a present there for a while.
"Need any help?" Law looked at Sabo as he landed in front of him, holding a pipe in his hand.
"Why?" was all Law demanded to know, you didn't help a stranger without a reason, and he had saved his brother's life, but it was because Mugiwara-Ya had saved Sanji.
"I like to think that if it was my brother, someone would offer me the help. And just as Sanji would be sadden to see his friend die, so would Luffy" Sabo explained and Law gave him a studying look, unsure if he believed that was the only reason, but he didn't have time to question the other man.
"Your life is your own, and can't say I care if you live or die, so do as you pleases" Law only answered the other one. He may not utter the words, but he had started caring about Hawkins and his men, even if he denied it for himself, and would do so until the day he died. That was the main reason he sent them back to the hospital, it was true, it may need protection, but if something happened they could enter the safe room, and be safe, out on the streets they may all die. Law looked towards the west as he started walking in that direction, with Sabo by his side.
"Any clue where to look?" Sabo asked as he searched the streets for the blonde.
Law looked at the scarred man, only for a second.
"None" he hated to admit it, but he wasn't sure to where Sanji had run, except towards his biological family. Which way he took, he was unsure off.
"Hm, he doesn't make things easy" Sabo uttered, only to earn a cold look from the surgeon and he gave him somewhat of an apologising smile.
Law thought about going towards their apartment, to make sure Sanji hadn't fled there. However, he wasn't too keen on showing the younger man beside him where they lived, and he was almost sure that Sanji hadn't returned there, since he had made a brief call there, and no one had answered. Therefore, he chose to walk closer towards the neutral district, knowing Sanji would never run through Kaido or the Marine's district, no matter what state he was in.
"Has this happened before?" Sabo asked as he followed Law when he took left. Law thought about ignoring the other man's question, not in a mood to talk. Wanting to concentrate on finding Sanji. He didn't wish to think about what would happen if Sanji got caught, but despite that his friend had told him far from everything Law knew some of the things those mother fuckers had done to him. He also knew that if they caught him, he would never get him back. And as it wasn't enough, Cora-San was running around out there as well, alone. His father was more capable to defend himself, that was true, but if Doflamingo come for him, he wouldn't have a chance, and he would lose him as well. For a second Law felt how he couldn't breathe, it felt like someone pressed him down, as horrid pictures of his family flashed by.
"Law" he felt a hand up on his shoulder and his hand reached for his sword in less than a second, before he realised that it was Sabo who had uttered his name and touched him. Law met his eyes with a questioning look, not realising that the blond most had noticed the panic he felt. "Need you to stay focus and not panic"
Law was about to utter some very unpleasant words to the man, telling him not to order him when Sabo continued.
"Don't give me that look" he started with a relaxed friendly voice. "I know how it feels to have your family out there. Sure Ace belongs to Whitebeard's gang, and he is accompanied by people like Marco, however that doesn't mean he stays away from danger. And Luffy, he is even worst. His friends aren't as strong as Ace's, and he takes risks normal people doesn't, not seeing them in the same others does. So trust me, I may not know what thoughts passed through your mind just now, but I know the feeling. But if you wish to help Sanji you need to stay focused. …"
Law knew that Sabo was right, he hated to admit it, having the younger man tell him that, but as the blonde one was about to continue Law lifted his hand to hinder him, he felt another present.
"We aren't alone anymore" he pulled his sword, ready to attack, depending on who the other may be. He saw that Sabo went from relaxed, to ready without getting tensed or stressed, revealing that he was a used fighter, despite not belonging to a gang.
"Well, well isn't it the lovely doctor" the voice was clearly mocking.
"Ichiji" Law's voice was cold and Sabo looked at the man who walked out of the shadows, recognising him as the oldest son of the Vinsmoke's.
"Thought my lovely brother would be with you, and here you disappoint me" Law chose not to answer the other man. "However, he is blonde. Always had a thing for blonde men, so until I find Sanji, your friend will do"
"Lovely to meet you, I am Sabo" he said polite, earning a laugh from the other man.
"Maybe you should learn some manners from this guy" Ichiji stated, only to earn a sigh from Law.
"I preferred your sister, she talked less, she talks even less this days, being buried six feet under" Law smiled coldly as Ichiji's eyes become black.
"I will get you for that!" he stated before rushing towards him, charging up his hands. Law hadn't fought Ichiji before, but he had fought Renji and Yonji, therefore he wasn't to unfamiliar with the technology Vinsmoke's had. Law felt like sighing again, not having the time to fight the younger man. But he knew that as long as Ichiji was here with him, he wasn't near Sanji. It didn't mean that his others siblings could be, but at least it was one less, and from what he knew Ichiji was the one who had touched Sanji the most sexual, and Law couldn't hinder himself from smiling, knowing that he would pay back the other man well.
"Room" Law lifted his hand and the familiar blue sphere appeared around them. Ichiji seemed to be taken by surprise for a second, just as Sabo did.
"Finally, a challenge" Ichiji stated as he gave them a cold smile.
"Thank you" Sabo tilted his head slightly as he watched Law. The black haired man only gave him a nod, before he actually offered him a hand, to help him stand. Sabo took it, with a smile. "That last blast took me by surprise"
Law didn't answer him, he had since he had fought Renji and Yonji experienced it before, but he knew what Sabo meant. He had been taken by surprise the first time as well, this time as Ichiji's gear started glowing, he knew what it meant, and he had been able to protect him and Sabo to some extent. Sabo had still fallen to the ground, and both of them had small cuts, but they were alive. And covered by the dust he had attacked Ichiji, taken him down. The red haired man was unconscious, and Law had his heart in his hand, smiling coldly as he saw it.
"Are you unhurt?" Sabo asked "Do you wish to continue searching for Sanji?"
"Nothing I won't live through" Law only answering, being used to far worse treatment and wounds. At Sabo's last words he looked into the dark, Sanji was still out there, that he knew, but he had one of his brothers in front of him, and Law didn't plan on killing him here, making it easy for the Vinsmoke. But he didn't feel like dragging him around the district either. Law sighed, he knew that he needed to return with Ichiji first, hoping Sanji would be okay as he did. Sabo seemed to sense what he was about to do.
"Need any help carrying him?" Law thought about it, he could shamble the body the whole way, but that would drag his energy faster than he wished for, and despite that the body was heavy, it would take less effort carrying him the traditional way back to the hospital.
"If you are offering" Law only answered as he started to separate Ichiji's body parts, to make it easier to transport him. Law could tell that Sabo was watching him closely, but he couldn't tell what he thought, since the younger man didn't let it show. He accepted the parts Law was given him without a doubt as they started walking back to the hospital, hoping Sanji was alright, or that one of the others had found him.
Marco admitted he was lost, and for a second he thought about transforming into a phoenix, in hope that it would help him search the streets. However, that would only be helpful if Sanji was running along the streets. Marco couldn't tell if he had passed the streets or houses before already, all he could tell was that he hadn't wondered into another district, for better or worse. He used his observation Haki to help him search for Sanji, hoping he would be close enough the road he was taking for him to be found. Marco turned right, without any reason, hoping he would run into Sanji by chance, since it was the only thing he could do. As he entered another street, he couldn't do anything but hope some of the others had found Sanji since he had been running for nearly an hour, and hadn't found him yet. Because despite not knowing the way to Big Mom's district, he was fairly sure that the blonde would have made it there already, if none of them had found him.
Marco stopped when he heard a sound, heading in that direction. It was the first sound he had heard, seeing that a lot of the houses around here seemed abounded. He hoped it would be someone who would be able to help him find Sanji, someone that had seen the other man. However, as he got closer to whoever had made the sound, he saw to his relief that it was Sanji. The blonde was sitting, somewhat hidden under some stairs, and the view reminded him of a younger Ace, and Marco smiled, before he slowly approached the other man.
"Hi Sanji" his voice was calm, low and gentle, making the other man lift his head and meet his eyes. Marco meet the red eyes, filled with tears and a mix of fear and shame. "Do you have room for one more?"
Sanji didn't answer him, not that Marco had expected him to do so, he hadn't even expected him to look at him, or even show that he accepted his present, but the other one moved a bit, to make room for him. Marco was surprised but he didn't show it as he squeezed under the stairs, being a bit too tall to fit, but he still tried to give Sanji some space. Sanji gave him a look, wondering why he was there.
"Cora-San and Law are looking for you" he answered him, which resulted in Sanji turning away from him.
"They shouldn't" he whispered, but Marco only smiled.
"You are their family, they will always look for you. I would and have done the same for my family" Marco informed him, thinking that he couldn't even count the times he had searched for someone in his gang, being worried about them as they didn't return.
"Then why are you here?" Sanji's voice was colder then Marco had heard it, but he wasn't offended by it.
"Offering my help, knowing that it's a big district to be searching for only two people. Wasn't sure I would find you, thought the other two would have a better chance" Marco admitted, it had only been luck that made him find Sanji. If he had taken another way, he may never had found him. Sanji didn't answer him and Marco looked around the small space. "Kind of cosy, Ace had chosen a similar hiding place when he was younger"
Sanji turned towards him once more, clearly wondering why and Marco thought about it, it was a private moment between him and Ace, and he wondered if his brother would mind, if he told the story. Ace wasn't secretly gay, but the story could still be shameful. Marco normally didn't tell secrets, especially not others, but he looked at Sanji and thought he would make an exception, hoping that talking would make the other one feel better.
"Promise not to tell Ace that I told you this" he gave Sanji a look who nodded and Marco smiled. "This was right after he joined us, being sixteen at the time. I hadn't known him for long, but me and my friend Thatch, who look after all the new recruits, more than the others, took a liking to him. So when I saw him running through the gates, seeing distressed I followed. It isn't unusual for new recruits to regret joining, being scared and confused. However; Ace didn't seem to be the ones who regretted it, being proud to be one of us. So as I said I followed him, found him under another set of stairs and, just as I did with you, I joined him. He was scared but I couldn't tell why, it took a while for him to let me know why. Ace had figured out that he was gay, and he was afraid that White Beard would throw him out, and that we all would hate him. I informed him that we wouldn't, and he wondered how he could be sure. I told him I was gay as well, and seeing his smiling face is one of my favourite memories of him. He was the sweetest boy back then, and all the questions he asked the time afterwards, well they can still make me smile"
Marco smiled towards Sanji who gave him a small smile back.
"Brothers are great that way" he whispered and Marco nodded.
"We always do our best" Marco answered, but Sanji stopped smiling, and Marco almost cursed himself, realising those words made Sanji think about his biological brothers. Marco realised he needed to make the other man think about something else.
"How about Law, did he help you in a similar way?" Marco thought that Sanji's word meant that the surgeon had. Maybe the thoughts of Law would make Sanji feel better.
Sanji stayed silent for a long time and Marco didn't pressure him, letting Sanji know that he could answer if he felt like it.
"He did, it was two years ago…"
Sanji was looking down in the cup, staring at the black liquid inside, no intention to drink it. He was alone at the moment. Cora-San had disappeared after an argue with Law, and had yet to return. Bepo was out, doing something Sanji didn't know, and Law was asleep in his room. Or that was what Sanji hoped, knowing that his friend needed to sleep. Sanji was worried about him, he had seen tired and devastated, even before the argue with Cora-San. Sanji knew that both of them always regretted it afterwards, and they did apologise. Sanji was just worried that they would stop doing that one day. He wasn't barely aware of anything that had happened to the others before they took him in, but he didn't wish for it to ruin his family. Despite the odd mix they were, he loved them all, and he wouldn't change them for anything. His thoughts soon got interrupted by Law, who walked out from his room, looking even worse than before.
"Do you need something?" he asked, hoping he could help Law somehow. Law looked at him, giving him a small smile.
"I can manage" he answered as he took a plate from the fridge and sat down next to him.
"You look awful" Sanji teased, only to earn a cold look from Law, who took a bite of the food. "Are you alright?"
"Mm" Law only answered at first, Sanji knew him well enough to know that wasn't true, but he also know that Law would continue. "I just hope he is alright. I don't know what he is doing when he leaves, and I am worried that he does something dangerous"
"He can take care of himself, he knows how to fight" Sanji tried to ensure his friend, even robbing his back as so many times before. Law rarely showed that he was worried, unless it was for someone of them, and especially Cora-San since none of them knew where their father went.
"Not towards everything" Law gave Sanji a worried look. Sanji met the grey eyes, trying to give the other man some sort of comfort. Law was good at giving him comfort, Sanji wasn't as great on doing the same.
"He has always come back" Sanji reminded him making Law sigh, it was a weak argument, Sanji know that, but he couldn't offer much. He couldn't inform Law of where Cora-San was going, he couldn't offer to search for him either, all he could do was to be there for Law as he was worried. Sanji took Law's hand as the black haired man stopped eating.
"Want me to sing the song Cora-San always singed for us" he teased and Law gave him another cold look, but he squeezed his hand, letting him know he would appreciate it, without needing to utter the words.
Sanji didn't know from where the song come, he couldn't remember anyone else singing it, besides the tall man, but he had song it for them as children, almost every night. Sanji guessed to encourage them in any way he could in this town. He had often told Cora-San that he liked it, Law always pretended he didn't, claiming it was ridicules, words from a naïve and blind man, thinking it was true. Neither Sanji or Cora-San argued with him, knowing Law secretly loved the song. As Sanji song the words he saw that Law struggled not to sing along, and it made him smile as he song the last words, leaning forwards. Cora-San always ended the song with kissing them on the forehead, but without realising why or that he even did, Sanji pressed his lips against Law's. Law's lips were soft, softer than any of the men he had kissed as a child, and for a second Law gently kissed him back before he pulled away, smiling towards him. As he did Sanji realised what he had done and he almost panicked, preparing to run, but Law didn't let go of his hand.
"Sanji sit" Law's voice was gentle but in the same time ordering him, and Sanji almost started shaking, before Law closely pulled him into an embrace. "Relax, you have done nothing wrong"
"I kissed you" Sanji's voice cracked and Law laughed a gentle laugh.
"I am aware of that" he told him, still holding him. "Still you did nothing wrong, I am not mad at you"
"How can you not be? I kissed you…I am not allowed to kiss people without permission…And you are my brother" Law didn't answer until he calmed down a bit, only holding him as he stroke his hair.
"First of all, you are allowed to kiss anyone you want, just make sure the other one are aware" he teased and Sanji couldn't hinder himself for smiling for a second. "And yes we are raised as brothers, but we aren't so you did nothing wrong there"
Sanji couldn't argue with that, they didn't call each other brothers, but that was mostly because Sanji didn't wish to use that word, even if he saw Law as his brother.
"And finally, there is nothing for me to be mad about. It was a kiss, nothing else, you didn't try to stab me or anything. And you know I am gay, so it wasn't unpleasant, actually you are a good kisser"
Those words made Sanji blush, even if it made him happy for some reason.
"You were just curious, so I am not mad. However;…" he started and Sanji prepared himself for whatever horrid Law would tell him "You do not wish to go down with me on that path"
Up on hearing those words Sanji met Law's eyes, and the other one smiled.
"Trust me, you are way to kind for what I prefer" Law teased and Sanji decided that he didn't wish to know what Law preferred, knowing it would most likely wake up memories he couldn't handle. "But I am sure you will make some guy very happy one day"
"After you have approved of him?" Sanji joked and Law nodded.
"After I have made sure he won't hurt you" Law admitted and Sanji leaned towards his friend chest as Law kept him in his arms, waiting for Cora-San to return.
Sanji had kept his eyes towards the ground as he told the story, and Marco wasn't sure if it was because he was ashamed, or due to some other reason, but he founded the story as adorable as Ace. He was glad for Sanji's sake, that he had someone as understanding as Law around him. Despite that Rost was his first kiss, and his first love, he had been all alone when he learned that he was gay, and it had made him terrified. He had almost given anything to have someone like Law or himself around.
"It's almost surprising, hearing how sweet he can be" Marco said, earning a smile from Sanji.
"Don't let him hear that" Marco had no intention of doing so, being able to imagine what Law may do to him. Despite that the other man was kind and sweet towards his family, didn't make him less dangerous or crazy, he had the rumour he had for a reason.
"Of that you can be sure" Marco informed the other one. He glanced at Sanji, wondering what he could say to make the man return to his family. He was more than sure that he could make him return by force, but he knew that would do more damage than good. No he was hoping that he would manage to convince the other one by talking to him.
"What did Cora-San say?" Marco wondered and Sanji met his eyes for a short second, wondering why he wondered. "My fathers reacted differently. My biological one was far from pleased. I will spare you the story of what he called me, and if I hadn't lived with Rost and his mother by then, I am sure I would after our talk. Maybe that was one of the reasons they chose not to help Rost when I asked"
Marco paused for a few seconds, not sure if he hoped that was the reason or not. He pushed the thoughts away, knowing it would do him no good to dwell over them.
"Whitebeard was almost proud of me for admitting it. He can get almost ridicules proud over the smallest things" his voice was full of love as he talked about his father. "He even said that he would let any of my partners live at the base, if me and him wished for it, without making him join the gang"
"That was kind of him" Sanji admitted and Marco nodded. Whitebeard didn't have a bad reputation compared to the other districts leader, but few people knew of the small kind things he said and did towards his family.
"My real father doesn't know, and he doesn't care, he only sees me as an item to be sold off" Sanji become silent for a moment and Marco watched him, not being able to imagine what was going through his mind. "Cora-San couldn't care less. He informed me that I could have been drawn to rocks and he would still have loved me as long as I was happy"
"That was an odd example" Marco laughed and Sanji shrugged his shoulders, most likely being used to the tall man's way.
"You get used to his ways"
"I can imagine you do, especially the falling?"
"You do, just as you get used to him catching fire from time to time"
"Has he always done that?" Marco wondered. He could understand how someone could be clumsy, easily falling, but catching fire wasn't a common thing, even if you were clumsy.
"As long as I have known him. I don't know if he did it when he met Law" Sanji admitted and Marco nodded.
"How long have you known them?" Marco asked, wondering when Sanji met them.
"Since I was eight, right after Zeff…" Sanji hindered himself and Marco could feel the change in the other man. "I need to go, before something happens to them"
Sanji was about to stand up when Marco carefully hindered him, but despite his carefulness he saw the fear in Sanji's eyes.
"Have you really thought this through?" Marco asked in a kind voice. "You are old enough to make your own choices, and I have no right to stop you, but I can still wonder if you really know what you are doing?"
Marco saw that another form of fear and insecurity was reflected in Sanji's eyes, as he slowly sat down once more, leaning back, towards the wall. Marco didn't say anything more, waiting to see if Sanji would answer him.
"What else can I do?" Marco wasn't sure if Sanji was asking him, or himself. "See what happened to Luffy. He would have died if you and Ace hadn't found us. And Zeff, they killed him, no one could help him. Who's next? Law? Cora-San? Bepo? Someone else?"
Marco could imagine the fear Sanji felt, and it wasn't an irrational fear. However the solution Sanji thought he had, was one decided in a state of panic and fear.
"I can't answer that, but they are your family and they are willing to help you" Marco started, only to realise that Sanji shook his head.
"If I return, they will be safe, no one else would be hurt because of me" Sanji uttered.
"I am sure they would be hurt if you left them, not only emotional. I am fairly sure that both Law and Cora-San would fight to get you back" Marco offered the other one a smile, one that Sanji didn't answered.
"They can't, they will die, all of them. They can't…" Sanji started to shiver and Marco could only guess what horrible things the other imagined. Sanji started to panic again and Marco did the only thing he could think off, hoping it wouldn't make the situation worse, he pulled him into a gentle hug. At first Sanji went stiff, until he gave in, leaning against him. Marco could feel the tears streaming down the other ones face, as they landed on his bare chest.
"They will try again" Sanji whispered "They will not give up, until they have me back"
Marco didn't answer him, all he did was stroke his back, hoping to calm down the other man.
"I don't won't to return to him, I never won't to see him again. Feel his hand up on me. The things he did…" Marco could almost hear Sanji's heart beat faster out of fear. He had no idea who he talked about, but he had no desire to ask the other one either, since the man clearly scared him. Sanji started to mumble things for himself, things Marco couldn't distinguish, and he chose not to try either, most likely being things Sanji didn't won't to share.
Marco felt how Sanji slowly started to relax, as he stopped mumbling and his tears came to an end.
"Feeling better?" he gently asked, all Sanji did to answer him was shaking his head. "Do you wish to return to Law and Cora-San?"
As Sanji didn't answer him in a while, neither with a yes or no, Marco decided to act, he slowly moved them out from the space, and started walking towards the hospital, viewable in the distance. He hoped that Sanji wouldn't protest as he realised where they were going, as he gently guided him back, towards his family. He still seemed scared over the idea, but the thought of his biological family and the man, seemed to scare him more. Marco didn't say anything, fearing that it may make Sanji change his mind, and he hoped that either of the other two men would be back to welcome the blonde, since he didn't know what Sanji may do if they weren't. Maybe he had to hope Luffy would do if that was the case.
"Laaaaaw" Bepo's voice echoed through the corridors and the black haired man turned towards the bear. When Bepo stopped in front of him, he was out of breath. "Marco found him…Sanji is back"
Ichiji's body parts fell to the ground, and if the man had been awake, he had most likely made some sort of sound, but Law didn't care.
"Where is he?" he asked as he started walking.
"Marco took him to your office" Bepo answered, right by his side, as they left Sabo behind. Law almost cursed himself for having his office on the higher floors.
"Cora-San?" Law asked, looking at Bepo.
"I apologise, he hasn't returned yet" Bepo answered and Law smiled towards him.
"Nothing to apologise for" he stated as he kept running more or less towards his room, passing Hawkins on the way, the older man took one look at Law and smiled.
"I will let Cora-San know where you are if I meet him" he informed Law, who nodded towards the other man as he kept walking, soon reaching his office.
Sanji was sitting on the couch with Marco next to him and Law walked over, kneeling in front of him on the floor. He gently took Sanji's hands, meeting his eyes, he smiled towards his friend when Sanji suddenly threw himself in his arms, making them both fall to the floor, something Law couldn't care less about as he held the other man. Sanji was whispering how sorry he was, over and over.
"Nothing to be sorry for" Law answered, holding him closer as he started crying. Law had to struggle to get them both up in a sitting position. Law looked at Marco who was still sitting on the couch, giving him a nod, to show that he was thankful. Marco smiled towards him.
"Nothing to thank me for" he answered as he watched Sanji, giving him a smile as well, and the blonde answered it, to Law's surprise, but he didn't say anything about it as Marco left the room.
"You are hurt" Sanji suddenly said and Law looked at him, as the other man's pale fingers was covered in blood. Sanji gently touched his forehead and Law smiled taking Sanji's hands.
"Nothing to worry about, I just ran into an angry drunk man" Law lied, feeling that it wasn't the time to tell Sanji about his brother. He could see that the blonde was scared as it was.
"Here" both the men turned towards the door when Bepo, who had gone to the kitchen, returned with something for Sanji to eat. Sanji smiled towards the bear, even if he looked very sceptical at the food.
"Thank you" he patted Bepo who placed himself on Sanji's left side. "Are you mad?"
Law met Sanji's look with a smile, as he kissed his forehead.
"No" he said honestly. "I was worried, and scared, but I was never mad at you"
"I am so sorry" Sanji said once more as he leaned against Law, who only pulled him closer once more as the door opened as Cora-San fell towards the floor.
"You always knew how to make an entrance" Law uttered sarcastically as their father raised to his feet, walking over. Sanji avoided his eyes, and Law could tell he was worried over the tall man's reaction, Law wasn't. He and Cora-San may have moments without kindness, but Law knew he would never do that to Sanji. And their father proved it as he sat down and pulled them all into a hug, as well as he could since they all were grownups now.
"I love all of you" Cora-San uttered as he sobbed, and Law couldn't hinder himself from smiling, especially since Bepo apologised for it.
"Sanji you need to rest" Law stated towards his friend when Cora-San let go of them and the blonde nodded. Law looked at the other two. "Stay with him!"
"You leaving?" Law heard how scared Sanji become at once, Law couldn't tell if it was because he feared that he was angry at him, or if it was because he feared that they may be in danger.
"Only for a short time. I need to visit a few of my patients, including Mugiwara-Ya" Law lied and Sanji nodded, a bit calmer by his words.
"We will be here" Bepo smiled and Sanji nodded as Cora-San pulled him into another hug, covering Sanji with his coat. Law smiled towards them before he left his office to pay Ichiji a visit.
As Law returned he noticed that Sabo hadn't left the room. The younger man was studying Ichiji, or rather the effects Law's devil fruit had on him.
"It's fascinating; I have never encountered something like this" Sabo gave him a quick look before he returned to study Ichiji. He studied the body parts Law hadn't put together, he could see the bones, the blood, muscles, everything, and still the man didn't bleed to death. Sabo knew it was because of the devil fruit Law had, but despite everything he had seen, he had never seen or heard about something even remotely similar. Sabo could tell that Law was watching him, but the older man didn't utter a word, which didn't surprised Sabo. The surgeon didn't seem to be a talkative person, at least not with any of them. He had spotted him a few times with Sanji and with the blonde he didn't seem to have a problem talking. Not that Sabo would describe him as chatty, even with the other man.
"Is Sanji unharmed?" Sabo stood up after he let go of Ichiji's hands, and looked at Law. Sabo couldn't read Law as well as he could with others, but the man seemed to be surprised that he asked, but also very suspicious.
"He is unharmed" was all Law answered and Sabo understood that the other one wouldn't tell him anything else about the chef.
"May I ask what you are going to do to him?" Sabo looked at Ichiji, who seemed to waken up, before his gaze wondered back to Law. As he did, he saw a cold smile that almost made Sabo shiver as the surgeon walked towards the red haired.
"We are going to have a talk" Law sat down, lowering himself to the other man's height, as he was changed to the wall. Ichiji blinked a few time, looking at Law before he spited him in the face.
"Aren't we well behaved" Law's voice was sarcastic, something that didn't seem to bother the other man. Law stood up again, removing his coat and hat, before he looked at Sabo. "You want to stay?"
Law leaned closer, and Sabo almost took a step back, feeling that he wasn't in control of the situation, and he preferred not to get involved in situation where he wasn't in control. However, as a part of him wanted to leave, the other knew he could get valued information about the man in front of him. Sabo had very little information about him, and missing out on a chance like this, well he wasn't too willing to do that.
"As long as my present isn't to your dissatisfaction" Sabo answered. Law didn't answer him, he only turned towards the Vinsmoke.
"This is very easy" Law started as he grabbed a knife. "I ask a question and you answer. Depending on how you do, the pain increase"
"I think you mean; if I don't answer, you hurt me!" Ichiji tried to correct him, only to receive another cold smile from Law.
"I am going to hurt you no matter what you answer, there is no scenario where I spare you" Law's voice was nothing more than a whisper.
"Do your worst" Ichiji's voice was a clear challenge and despite not knowing what Law may do, Sabo know that was the wrong answer. Law didn't answer the man as he leaned forward stabbing him in the eye, resulting in Ichiji screaming, after the shock.
"Let's begin"
"You look pale" Ace turned towards Sabo as he entered the room.
"You okay Sabo?" Luffy sounded worried, even Marco who had come to inform them that Sanji was back, looked worried at the other man.
"Whatever you do Ace, don't ever engage in a fight with him" Sabo's stare made Ace uncomfortable, but he slowly nodded.
"What did he do?" Ace asked.
"Things you don't want to know" Sabo had seen and even used torture himself, but nothing come clear to the things Law had done. The other man knew how to increase as much pain he could and still keep the other man alive. Sabo had got information about the other man, despite that it wasn't something the rumours hadn't informed him. But he saw for himself what the man was capable to, and how skilled he was.
"Eh, Senguko would never hurt Ace" Luffy stated and Sabo looked over to his brother.
"Cross him the wrong way and he will!" Sabo insured Luffy, hoping that Luffy would understand that. Sabo leaned back, into the chair. He could still here Ichiji's screams, smell the blood and see Law's cold eyes, as he closed his own. He was sure that it was images that would never leave his mind. However, he had got information about the Vinsmokes he hadn't heard of before. And he hated to admit it, but Law fascinated him, not many people would be able to handle what he just did, and not blink. The other man frightened him, because of it, but he was still interesting. Despite what the town often forced people to become, that was something else.
"I have changed my mind" Luffy suddenly blurted, almost sounding angry. The other three people turned towards him. "We need to help Sanji! And Senguko!"
"With what?" Ace asked but Sabo understood what his youngest brother thought.
"Nothing has change Luffy, they will still resulting in your death" Sabo said bluntly.
"Not if we prepare and have help" Luffy turned towards Ace. "Can you ask Smoker?"
"Have you lost your mind?" Ace voice become loud in a second. "He is a marine, he will never help us!"
"But you know him!" Luffy tried.
"You know Shanks, would he help you?" Ace asked back and Luffy seemed to think about it.
"He may, but I am not willing to ask him" Sabo saw the wise in that decision, and Ace seemed to do the same, even if he hated it. "But Smoker must wish to get rid of them as well?"
"Doesn't mean he is willing to work with us!" Ace answered.
"You can't know until you have asked!" Luffy tried as he looked at Ace with big puffy eyes. "Despite, I will go with or without his help!"
"I hate that look, and you!" Ace seemed to melt at once, sighing. "I will ask"
Luffy smiled towards Ace, before he turned to Sabo, trying to hid an even bigger smile, just as the blond rolled his eyes.
"I need to talk to Robin" Luffy was about to stand up, when Sabo hindered him.
"I will inform her that you wish to speak with her, but don't pressure her about it. They haven't seen each other in ten years" Sabo warned Luffy who slowly nodded, not willing to think what Sabo may do if he hurt Robin. Both of his brothers soon left the room, just as Marco did, leaving Luffy alone with his thoughts.
"You wished to see me" Robin walked into the room, giving Luffy her usual smile, and Luffy smiled back.
"Hi" he almost waved. He had talked to his friends, and Robin was the first of them.
"Hi" Robin sat down at her leaders bed. "Are you feeling alright Luffy?"
"I am, Senguko did a great job" Luffy looked at his bandage for a short second. "Are all of you alright?"
"We are" Robin ensured him and Luffy relaxed a bit. He was worried something would have happened to them while he was gone.
"So what can I help you with?"
"I want to help Sanji" Luffy started, and Robin, not surprise to hear that, nodded. "And I can't help him come over whatever his family may have done to him. However I can help protect him, by helping Senguko get rid of his family"
"You wish to go up against the Vinsmoke?" Robin asked, wanting to be sure that Luffy knew what that meant.
"I know that it isn't an easy task, but Senguko can't do it on his own!"
"Does he knew you are planning on helping him?" At those words Luffy laughed.
"Not yet, I want to make sure I can help him before I say anything"
"Is your help something he wish for?"
"I don't think so" Luffy said at first, before he smiled "But Sanji is my friend and I want to help him! No matter what the others may say. Senguko can't stop me!"
Robin didn't say anything about it, not yet at least.
"But I need help" Luffy then uttered looking at her.
"I am sure all of us will help you in any way we can" Robin offered him a smile and Luffy nodded.
"I know you would, and if you can without getting into much danger, I will gladly accept it" Luffy stated and Robin smiled once more, seeing how much the younger boy cared about their wellbeing. "Robin…"
Luffy suddenly seemed unsure and she nodded for him to continue.
"Could you…Could you ask if Aokiji is willing to help us?" Luffy looked at her and Robin didn't answer right away, thinking about it. She knew that a fight like this would most likely not endanger Aokiji's life, him being a skilled and used fighter. She also knew that he would most likely answer yes if she asked him, as a favour towards her, but she didn't wish to use him that way. She never wished to use him again, but her leader could need the help.
"Can I think about it?" She suddenly asked, not being able to come to a conclusion right away.
"Take as much time as you wish" Luffy smiled and Robin nodded before she stood up.
"Oh, someone is here to see you" she uttered mysteriously before she opened the door, and left the room.
"Luffy?" the voice was kind as Vivi walked in and Luffy smiled.
"Hi" he was surprised that she had left the base, and come to visit him. He knew that Vivi preferred not to wonder to far from the base if she didn't need it. She and the others had stayed with them after the storm, something that made Luffy happy, knowing that they were safe. "Did you come here by your own?"
"No I come with your gang and Pell, he is with the others" Vivi informed him as she sat down on the place Robin just left.
"Glad hear it" Luffy was revealed. He knew that Vivi could take care of herself, to some extent, but getting to the north district was a walk across town, and that was far from safe.
"How are you feeling?" Vivi looked at him, clearly worried but Luffy just smiled.
"I am a bit sour, but besides that I am fine" he admitted and she nodded.
"You made us worried"
"It wasn't my intention" Luffy never meant to make any of them worried. It was obvious that they would be, but he still didn't wish for it.
"I know it wasn't" Vivi said with a laugh, and Luffy couldn't hinder himself from laughing as well.
"How long do you need to stay?" Vivi asked and Luffy shrugged his shoulder.
"I don't know. But I wish to help Sanji so it may be a bit longer" he stated and despite not knowing any details the princess nodded.
"Anything I may assist you with?" she kindly asked and Luffy thought about it.
"Do you know anything about the Vinsmokes?" Luffy asked, hoping she would. She knew more about the town from the old days then he did.
"I have limited knowledge about them, but I can tell you what I know" she informed him and he nodded, eager to know. "They are an old noble family, one of the first to arrive here together with Donquixote, the Outlooks and my family, three hundred years ago"
"Wow, are you family that old?" Luffy was impressed and Vivi nodded, before she continued.
"The Vinsmokes was in the old days associated with their knowledge about technology. They helped build most of the cities electricity system, and when the old mines were used, they build most of the machines, being used there." Luffy had no idea that Sanji's family had done such things. To be honest, Luffy had never thought about the structure of the town, and that someone must have created it.
"Then what happened?"
Vivi become silent for a long time before she sighed.
"Crocodile happened" she whispered and Luffy should have known. He saw the guilt she felt, despite that she only had been a child at the time. He knew that Vivi tried to pretend that she doesn't care about the town anymore, but sometimes she had trouble hiding it. Luffy saw how much she blamed herself and he hated seeing her like that. He leaned forward and gently took her hands.
"That's not your fault" he said in a gentle voice, offering her a smile, one she replied with a small one.
"After everything they started specialising in murders and child prostitution" Vivi explained and Luffy couldn't hinder himself from feeling angry for a second. He felt like Sanji's family had no right to do that to him. How could the people you should be able to trust and love do that to you? Luffy had never made it on his own, without his brothers, but Sanji had to, until he met Senguko. Luffy was glad that Sanji had found a family that loved him, one that his biological family now tried to destroy.
"Luffy?" Vivi's voice hindered his thoughts and he looked up and met her brown eyes. "Are you alright? I apologise if my information wasn't to your liking"
"Oh, it has nothing to do with that" Luffy ensured her, even giving her a smile. "I just hate how some people can ruin others life"
At those words Vivi nodded, but she didn't answer him as Luffy's stomach started to growl.
"Someone is hungry" she laughed and Luffy nodded.
"I haven't eaten in a few hours"
"I have some cookies with me that I made, are you allowed to eat them?" she asked and Luffy thought about it, Senguko hadn't said he needed to eat some special food, so he nodded. "Well let's see if I can find them"
Vivi started to look through her bag, placing a few things on the bed as she searched for the cookies.
"What is this?" Luffy looked at a pack of cards and Vivi looked up from the bag.
"It's a card game named Gwent, my mother gave it to me" she almost whispered as she found the cookies.
"Do you want to play?" Luffy asked and Vivi seemed to think about it before she nodded.
"Let's play and eat some cookies" she smiled towards the boy as she handed him the cookies and started to deal the cards.
"Kid?" Smoker uttered and Ace stopped dead in his track, to turn towards the Marine, before he started pacing once more. He thought it would be an easy task to ask Smoker, but it wasn't. Ace couldn't be sure if it was due to the fact that he didn't wish for Smoker to think he used him for this, or if it was because he didn't wish to put him in danger. The last one was ridicules, he knew. Smoker put his life in danger every day, just as they all did.
"Ace!" Smoker's voice was a bit louder then it normally was and Ace stopped again, placing himself on the swing next to the other man. "You are almost as bad the first day I came here"
Ace watched as the smoke left Smoker's lungs, to disappear into the night sky. Ace sighed as he kept his eyes fixed on the stairs above him. Smoker didn't say anything else, giving him time, or maybe he was preparing himself, not knowing what Ace wanted.
"My brother has a crazy plan" Ace started, still not looking at Smoker. "He is planning on going up against the Vinsmokes"
"He is either a brave man or an idiot" Smoker uttered and Ace smiled.
"The last one" he answered, that was at least what Ace told Luffy. He never admitted that Luffy was brave for doing all the things he did, afraid that it would encourage the other one. "He is planning on working with the surgeon, most likely buy forcing the other man" Ace hoped that wouldn't make the lunatic do whatever Sabo witnessed.
"Talk to him if it worries you" Smoker advised him and Ace looked at the man.
"I am going with him, I can't hinder him, I know that, but I will be damned if I leave him unprotected!" Ace stated, before he sighed again. "He has asked me to ask you if you are willing to join us…"
At those words Smoker only stared at him with empty eyes, before he looked betrayed. Ace knew that the other one would see it as he had used him.
"Forget that I asked, I will tell him you aren't interested. I did already, said you wouldn't want to work with gang members. I know that it's against your code, and I will not try to convince you, I am just glad that you are talking to me, and being able to meet me" Ace blurted so fast that Smoker almost couldn't understand him.
"You wouldn't want to work with a marine" Smoker finally answered, but at those words Ace smiled.
"My brother wouldn't care, as long as he can protect his friend, and if he doesn't care, his gang doesn't. And me, well we have worked together before, and I say we are doing pretty well"
"I will think about it kid" Smoker uttered, almost making Ace fall off the swing in surprise.
"You will?" he did nothing to hide his surprise. "But your code? Moral, things like that?"
"The enemy of your enemy is your friend" Smoker answered and Ace could see the logic behind that.
"Or you could just see all of us killing each other" Ace tried to lighten the mood and Smoker snorted.
"I could do that" he only answered as Ace leaned closer.
"But than you would miss me"
"Would I now?" he only answered as Ace sealed his lips.
"Marco"
"Hello pops" Marco answered as Whitebeard answered.
"Is everything alright?"
"I am unsure" Marco admitted, being glad he had such an open relationship with the old man. "Ace brother has come up with a crazy plan, or start working on one. He is going up against the Vinsmokes"
"And Ace are going with him?" the old man sounded worried.
"I think it would be impossible to stop him" Marco smiled and he could almost hear the other man do the same.
"I wouldn't hinder him, but if you wish for me to help him, I cannot. Walking into Big Mom's district would mean war, and I can't put everyone's life in danger" Whitebeard didn't need to tell him that, Marco was aware of the risks.
"I wish to go with him" Marco stated and Whitebeard become silent for a moment, thinking it over.
"Maybe it would be for the best. Ace may need your protection" Marco nodded, not thinking about the fact that the other one couldn't see it.
"He does"
"Is that the only reason?" Marco could almost laugh over how well the other man could read him.
"No. It doesn't sit right with me what the Vinsmokes did towards Sanji, and I wish to see that they can't do that to anyone else"
"You have taken a liking towards the man" Whitebeard laughed and Marco felt how he slightly blushed.
"I guess I have" he answered.
"Be careful, and inform me if there is anything I can give you"
"I will" Marco answered "I love you"
"I love you as well, tell Ace the same" Whitebeard answered before they hanged up.
Sanji avoided people as much as he could, while he walked through the corridors. That was normally not a problem since Law's patients more or less stayed in their rooms. Sanji had gotten used to Hawkins and his men, and he rarely met any of them, except Hawkins. And despite that the other man come off a bit creepy, especially with his card reading, he was polite and always kind towards him. Not that it made Sanji trust him, but at least he didn't need to deal with someone who was rude. And if he was honest the older man seemed to care about Law to some extent, which Law often complained about, and Sanji founded it funny. But as it was now, he didn't meet Hawkins and his men, no he had run into Zoro and Ace.
"Hmph" Sanji fell to the floor, but he managed to save the food he was carrying, from ending up on the floor.
"It's the cry-baby" Zoro stated, clearly not impressed by him. Sanji couldn't care less about that, but he didn't like the way he looked at him.
"I hope you aren't planning on visiting Luffy with that" Ace looked at the food "Don't think I have forgiven you, you almost got him killed, shitty bastard"
"I have a hard time understanding that he is a Vinsmoke" Zoro seemed to have a hard time grasping that. He himself had run into the other Vinsmoke's on some of his missions, and they were fucking great on what they did, but the man in front of him was nothing else but pathetic.
"None the less, he almost got Luffy killed!" Ace hated that Sanji had knowingly put Luffy in danger. It was true that Luffy often put himself in danger, and it was idiotic, but this man had risked his brother's life without telling him. He was a coward hiding behind others and that made it worst. He risked everyone's life, and for what?
"Why are we risking our lives for him?" Zoro gave him an angry look, even Nami and Usopp tried to fight more than the man in front of him. Even the strange girl Vivi, that had started living with them tried, and managed. Zoro was sure that any of them would be able to take Sanji, without a struggle. And Zoro hated weak people, people who didn't even tried to fight, who let others fight for them.
"Stay away from Luffy!" Ace walked closer and Sanji tried to crawl away, only to feel that he collided with someone. Scared he looked up to see Marco standing there, and he actually felt relief. Despite that the other man was a stranger and an enemy, was he always kind towards him, it still scared Sanji a bit, but so far Marco had done nothing that indicated that he wants to hurt him. Not even when he hugged him, it scared Sanji at first, not knowing what Marco may want, but it seemed that all he wanted was to make him feel better, and he had managed to some extent. It wasn't the same as when his family hugged him, but it was still nice. But as he saw Marco now, he seemed angry and that worried Sanji.
Marco stared at Ace, who almost looked hostile. But he knew that he was in trouble, Zoro who stood next to him didn't seem to care.
"I am disappointed Ace" Marco uttered sounding older then he really was. "We have thought you better than this"
Ace who knew that his behaviour was out of line, and that he should apologise, but he just saw red. Once again Marco took someone else side, not understanding how he felt, not even trying.
"Why does you always take their side? Why can't you see that it's his fault?" Ace gave Marco a deadly glare, and the older men took a step closer.
"Are you really asking me that Ace? Are you asking me to blame Sanji for something his family did?" Marco's voice was calm, but Ace could tell that the other man was far from pleased by his statement. "You father did something good, but if he hadn't, would it be fair for me to blame you?"
"My father didn't get people killed, or almost killed! He was a hero!"
"That he was" Marco gave the other man a smile, he knew how much Ace had loved his real father, and he should. "However, if he hadn't been a hero, you hadn't been proud of him. If he was like Akainu, and did with you as he did to many other children, would that be your fault? If you founded a friend and wanted to spend some time with that person, and your family suddenly finds you and try to kill both of you, is that your fault?"
"He could have told him who he was!" Ace shouted.
"Would it have made any differences in Luffy's case? He hadn't stop being his friend"
"But he would have known what danger he was in! It was like he brought an animal to slaughter by not telling him!"
"You really think that was his intention?" Marco questioned him and Ace glared at Sanji for a second, who didn't dared to look back.
"Who knows" Ace stated and Marco give him a cold look, the coldest Ace could ever remember receiving from the other man.
"Go and think things over Ace, before I send you back to the base!" Marco only answered.
"You can't do that! You can't treat me like a kid!"
"Right now you are behaving like a kid, and I can do that. I may be your brother, but I am also your commander, don't forget that!" Marco had never used that against Ace, never needed before. Ace looked hurt, hearing those words before he stormed off. Marco understood why Ace acted like he did, he understood the worry he felt over his brother, and that he needed to blame someone. It was easier for him to blame Sanji then the other Vinsmoke's since they weren't there. But he had still been out of line and Marco was disappointed in him.
"I suggest you leave as well" Marco looked at Zoro who seemed to think about disobeying before he remembered who he talked to and he walked away.
Marco turned around and offered Sanji a hand, to help him stand up. The other man carefully accepted it and soon he stood up.
"Are you alright?" he asked in a kind voice and Sanji nodded. "Do you have a cigarette I can borrow from you?"
"But you don't smoke" Sanji answered surprised.
"Normally I don't, but I feel like I need one right now" Marco explained looking in the direction Ace had disappeared. Sanji looked at him again before he nodded, leading him towards a balcony.
"You shouldn't have done that" Sanji muttered as he sat on the floor handing Marco a cigarette. The other man sat down next to him, sighing.
"I am aware" Marco's voice was nothing more than a whisper as he lightened the cigarette. "You plan on giving that to Luffy? I can follow you there if you want"
Sanji looked at the plate of food he was carrying and shook his head, as he pulled away the cover.
"No" Sanji handed it over to Marco who seemed a bit surprised. "I made it for you, as a thanks for the other day"
"No need to thank me" Marco answered as the smoke left his lips, before he smiled. "However, I do appreciate your food"
Sanji become silent for a while, letting the smoke fill his lungs before he looked at Marco who had started eating.
"I have every reason to thank you" Sanji honestly said. If Marco hadn't found him he would most likely have been back with his biological family, and he would be stuck in a hell he didn't even wanted to think about.
"Are you going to talk to him?" Sanji asked after a few moments of silence.
"I am, when I have given him some time to think about it" Marco answered as he put down the now empty plate. "And I will most likely get an angry call from Thatch, asking how I dare to hurt Ace"
Marco normally loved to talk to his brother, but he knew that wouldn't be a conversation he would enjoy.
"I am sorry" Sanji whispered, making Marco turn towards him, before he laughed a gentle laugh.
"That isn't your fault" he assured him "This is just how Ace is. I admit it have never been this bad before, but I don't think his brother has been in such danger before either"
Sanji didn't know what to say, he still felt like it was his fault. Marco shouldn't need to argue with his brother for his sake.
"It will be alright Sanji" Marco assured him and Sanji looked at him.
"If you say so" Sanji didn't believed that for a second, and Marco must have felt that.
"Siblings does argue from time to time, and it doesn't mean anything bad. I am sure you and Law has your moments as well" Marco uttered, but Sanji just shook his head.
"No, we have really never argued" Sanji admitted and Marco seemed a bit surprise.
"Well then he is clearly a better brother then I am" he joked, and Sanji smiled.
"There is worst brothers out there" Marco was surprised hearing Sanji joke about his brothers, but it made him a bit happy.
"Well that it is, and to be honest I am not sure yours is even the worst. I have heard rumours that they eat each other in Big Mom's family. Never had to worry about that" Marco said and Sanji looked a bit disgusted and Marco understood him. No matter how bad it may be, he never thought of eating other humans. Sanji didn't say anything about it, he only offered him another cigarette and Marco took it, knowing he would regret it later, but right now it felt nice and it helped him relax, and mentally prepare himself for the talk he would need to have with Ace.
"Marco?" both him and Sanji looked at Hawkins when he found them a few hours later. The other man seemed a bit surprised seeing Marco smoke, but as always he wasn't rude enough to comment it. "Um, you have some visitors, and a very angry Law"
Marco blinked a few times in surprise before he stood up, soon followed by Sanji, who seemed as surprised as Marco. Hawkins brought them to the entrance where Law was standing with Cora-San, Bepo and his friends and a few of Hawkins men. If looks could kill, there would be bodies on the floor. Marco was a bit surprised seeing Thatch standing there with Vista and Jozu, never thinking they would come here. Thatch gave him angry looks, while the other two didn't really seen to know what was happening, and most likely had accompanied Thatch, to make sure he was alright.
"I apologise for this Law" Marco turned towards the surgeon who at that moment seemed as he wanted to kill him as well.
"Apparently this is an open facility, so why even apologising Marco" Law's voice was dripping with sarcasm, and Marco couldn't blame him for being angry. Sanji walked up to the other man, standing next to him, and gave him a gentle look, something that seemed to make Law be a bit less hostile.
"Whatever they want, which I hope is removing you and the brat!" Law uttered "You need to take it outside"
Law left no room for arguing and Marco nodded as he signed for his brothers to step outside. The other three looked at Law for a second, before obeying as well.
Marco leaned towards the building as he lit the last cigarette he had gotten from Sanji, turning towards the other three. All of them seemed surprised that he smoked.
"You don't smoke" Vista stated, earning a smile from Marco.
"I did when I was younger, haven't done it in years because pops hate it" he explained and the others nodded. "So come-on Thatch, what did he say?"
"He called and told me that you didn't understood him, which isn't something unusual" Thatch tried to give Marco a smile, but the other one didn't replay. "He said you fought and that you threated to force him to return to us, and leave his brothers here, just because he didn't agree with you"
"Oh for fuck sake" Marco uttered and the others got even more surprised since Marco rarely, if ever used such words. "Do you really think that's what happened?"
"I don't know what I think, that's why I am here. Ace often calls me, angry about things, you being one of them, but he has never cried before"
Marco felt how his heart stopped for a second, he hadn't meant to make Ace crying, and he sighed, letting the smoke out of his lungs.
"I am sorry if that's how he sees it, but it's not how it happened" Marco looked at the others before he started telling them how it had happened.
Marco putted out the cigarette when he was done and looked at the others.
"He is such a kid sometimes" Vista joked with a warm laugh and Marco shrugged his shoulders.
"How do you feel?" Thatch asked and Marco smiled.
"I am alright, and I will be better when I have talked to Ace" Marco hoped. He really hoped that Ace had calmed down enough for him to do so.
"Want us to help?" Jozu asked and Marco looked at him before he laughed.
"As I recall you aren't allowed to enter the building"
"I will find a way" Jozu answered and Marco shook his head, but smiled.
"Well it has been a pleasure to know you, how would you prefer to have your funeral?" Marco asked and the others looked at him.
"Is he that bad?" Vista asked.
"Depends. He can be a kind man to people who he cares about, a bit overprotective if nothing else, but with the Vinsmoke's out there, it's understandable. He is a great doctor, with skills I have never seen and he is smart and calculating. But cross him in the wrong way and he will live up to the rumours and more"
"You talked to him?" Thatch asked.
"Only a few times, he isn't a chatty person, and most things that comes out of his mouths are either threats or sarcastic comments" Marco actually smiled at those words.
"Think you can get us in? I want to meet Ace little brother" Thatch smiled and Marco shrugged his shoulders.
"I can't promise anything"
Law glared at them, seeing as he thought about killing them, no matter the consequences.
"Anyone else we are expecting?" he asked coldly and the others chose not to answer.
"It can't hurt Law" Bepo said happily, looking at Whitebeard's men with curious eyes. Sanji noticed that Law was about to say something very unpleasant towards the bear and he gave him a calm look.
"They wish to visit their brother, that's all" Hawkins cut in and gave Law a smile.
"Oh, so you think" he said sarcastically at the other man before he turned around. "Apparently the whole town is invited"
Cora-San walked up next to him, putting an arm around his shoulders to calm him down.
"You would have done the same if it was Sanji" Cora-San told his oldest, only to earn a cold look from him, but Law didn't remove his arm as they walked towards Luffy's room. Sanji looked at Marco, with what he thought was a worried look. Marco offered the blonde a smile, to assure him that everything went well, as they followed the others.
Luffy looked at the people entering his room, seeing three men he didn't know, but which Ace seemed to do. Luffy was about to stand up when Senguko pressed him down, almost a bit too hard.
"Lay down" he ordered him. Luffy could tell that the other man was unhappy, but he didn't know why, and he knew better then to ask.
"Ace" the other three smiled towards his brother before they walked closer.
"One more step and I will kill you" Senguko didn't took his eyes of Luffy as he started to undo his bandage, but the other people stopped. Luffy looked around the room, as well he could only to see Sanji, and he smiled towards him.
"Hi" he waved and Sanji just looked at him, before he waved back, something that made Luffy utterly happy, until he shrieked when Senguko placed something cold on his chest. He saw that Ace was about to tackle the surgeon when Cora-San stopped him.
"He hurts him!" Ace shouted and Law turned him.
"It's an anti-inflammatory cream" Law threw it over to the other man before he redid Luffy's bandaged and left the room without a word, soon to be followed by Sanji and Cora-San.
"Are you alright Luffy?" Ace asked and Luffy nodded.
"I feel much better, it's cold, but nice" Luffy touched the bandages before he turned to the strangers in the room. "Who are you?"
"We are Ace's brothers. I am Thatch, this is Vista and Jozu"
"You belong to Whitebeard's gang too?" he asked and the other men nodded. "Cool. But why are you here? Are Ace in trouble?"
Luffy laughed, especially when Ace seemed bothered by it.
"In a way" Thatch answered and Luffy become worried at once, looking at the older men. "Nothing to worry about, he just need to have a talk with Marco!"
Luffy looked at the man who reminded him of a pineapple.
"Nothing to worry about Luffy, I will bring him back" Marco smiled and Luffy nodded as his brother left the room.
Marco looked at Ace, who looked everywhere, except at him.
"You have something to say?" Marco asked in a gentle voice, hoping Ace was willing to talk to him. Ace seemed to think about it, and Marco let him take his time.
"I am sorry" Ace finally said, meeting his eyes and Marco smiled.
"As am I" Marco told him. He hadn't meant to hurt Ace, it was never his intention and the other man seemed to understand that.
"I just get so angry at him. Luffy almost died, and that coward didn't even try to help him! And now he is willing to help him again, and what does he do! He runs away, forcing people to look for him. Luffy is willing to risk his life for someone who, who can't even fight for himself" Ace almost shouted and Marco pulled him into a hug.
"The reason Sanji ran, was because he hoped that his family wouldn't hurt anyone else if he returned" Marco stated. "He may not be a fighter the way we are, but he fights the way he can. His fights aren't as ours, his fight are a mental one, one I guess he fights every day. He knows the danger he put everyone through, and he hates it. A weaker person could have ended it a long time ago, one way or another"
Ace looked at him, knowing that Marco was right, but he could still not stop hating the other man for what he did towards his brother.
"I don't ask you to forgive him or like him Ace, but I do ask of you not to make the situation worse, not only for him but also for yourself. You should be lucky Law doesn't know about this" at those words Ace become pale and Marco didn't say anything else.
"I am sorry" Ace said once more and Marco only nodded.
"I know, so let's put this behind us, and please try to behave" Marco joked and Ace punched him on the arm before they went back into the room.
"They are going to help us!" Luffy announced with a big smile and the other two men looked at their brothers. "With the Vinsmoke's"
"Why?" Ace was puzzled, not that he wasn't glad for the help, knowing he would need it, if he wished to keep Luffy safe.
"He is a smooth talker" Vista laughed and Ace looked at Luffy, knowing all too well how persuading he could be.
"It's going to be so much fun!" Luffy smiled as Sabo entered the room, looking a bit surprised.
"Good evening" he said towards the other men, knowing all too well who they were, even if he didn't as they introduced themselves.
"Law seemed very displeased, what did you do this time Ace?" Sabo looked at his older brother who gave him a cold look.
"Wasn't my fault this time, he was pissed when he entered the room. He is just such a cranky bastard"
"Especially around you" Sabo teased as he handed over some food to Luffy.
"You are my favourite brother" Luffy announced earning a laugh from Sabo as he looked at Ace for a short second.
"I will go out a few hours, and I was about to ask if you would be alright Luffy, but seems like you have enough company" Sabo smiled again, even if it wasn't a completely gentle one. He didn't trust the men in the room, even if they were Ace brothers.
"Have fun" Luffy said, as he was chewing and Sabo nodded, leaving the others behind.
Law looked towards the door as he heard a knock, sighing. He had sought shelter in his office, needing some time to collect himself after everything, especially what he did towards Ichiji. It wasn't something he regretted, but the times he took it that far, always reminded him how much Doflamingo had influenced him. That if Cora-San hadn't found him, he would be like the other man by now, all the time, if not worse. He didn't know who sought his attention, but it was always something, and sometimes he regretted not settling down somewhere else, somewhere where he could be alone with his family. Especially now when the hospital was invaded by other people. If he had been more as the man who could count as his uncle, everyone even stepping in here had been dead. But instead he let them live for some reason. He looked into his glass when it knocked again and for a second he thought about not answering, letting everyone deal with whatever was bothering, but he finally stood up and opened the door. To his surprise he saw Sabo standing there. Law gave him a cold look, unwilling to let him in.
"You seemed angry so I come to see if you were alright?" Sabo asked and Law gave him a distrustful look.
"Why?" Law couldn't understand the other one, and to his liking he seemed far to curious.
"I am aware that Luffy can be a bit too much, just as Ace, and I wanted to apologise on their behalf"
"Don't" was all Law answered, hating when people apologised on other people's behalf, since it meant that the other one didn't thought they had done something wrong. Law hated fake shit like that, maybe it was because Doflamingo often had sent someone to apologise to Cora-San, if some of the others didn't did it on their own accord.
"I also come to inform you that Luffy has taken up his plan on helping Sanji" Sabo told him and Law closed his eyes for a second before he turned around, needing another drink. As he moved out of the way, the blond followed him. Law emptied one glass only to do the same with the second, filling up a third and turning around towards Sabo.
"Why?"
"That's how he is, he wish to help his friends, no matter what. Sanji wouldn't be the first person he helps" Sabo informed him as he looked at the glass Law was holding and the surgeon soon handed him one. "I am just letting you know because you will not be able to stop him, he is far too stubborn for his own good"
"And what does he think will happen? Does he think he will be able to just walk in and kill them?" Law asked coldly.
"He has apparently started to recruit people, and it seems that both Ace and Marco will help him, together with Thatch, Vista and Jozu. And to my knowledge Smoker as well" normally he wouldn't give out information as easily, but he felt like the other man needed to know, since Luffy would force Law's hand one way or another, and it was after all Law's family.
"Involving the marines, fucking great" Law did nothing to hide his hatred for the marines, and despite not knowing why Sabo understood it. He didn't hate the marine more than any other gang, but it was understandable why people did. "I should kill them all"
Law said that more to himself then Sabo, but the blonde still chose to answer.
"And start a war on different fronts, you don't seem the man to do that" Sabo was honest, Law hadn't strike him as a man who did things impulsively. Law only gave him a cold look before he filled his glass again. "I can't tell you what to do, but you can see it as a chance to get rid of the Vinsmoke's"
Law didn't answer him this time either, only glaring at him and Sabo stood up, knowing that the other man wished for him to leave. Sabo emptied his glass, before he nodded in thanks and left the room. He understood that it was a difficult position for Law, and Sabo couldn't be sure he wouldn't react as hostile as the other one, if not more. Trusting strangers, enemies to help save your family. In a way he trusted enemies to look after his brothers every day, but his brothers saw them as friends, and had chosen to live and work with them, Law didn't have that choice. For a second Sabo felt bad for the man, being forced to handle a situation he didn't put himself in. Sabo looked back at Law's door for a second before he climbed out through the windows, hoping he could gather some information about the Vinsmoke's, something that would help his brothers, and keep him alive.
"Are you sure?" Ace looked at Smoker as he was standing outside the building, looking more unsure then Ace had ever seen him. Compared to this, he even seemed sure and relaxed as Ace took him on their first date.
"Walking into a building with enemies, no" Smoker admitted and Ace understood how he felt. He had been unsure when he had visited the Marine base, and then he had only met Smoker, the hospital had a lot of gang members, members Ace couldn't even assure was trustworthy. Especially since it was the fucking doctors place.
"I will protect you" Ace tried to joke, knowing all well that he wouldn't be able to do much against Law, but he hoped that he wouldn't run into him or that Sabo's talk to the other man had done him a bit less hostile, which Ace didn't believe for a second.
"Cocky brat" Smoker managed to say, earning a smile from Ace as they entered the building. Ace could tell that Smoker was on his guard, as he searched the area around him, waiting for a trap, and if Ace hadn't walked here so many times before, he had done the same.
Smoker stopped when they heard steps coming towards them as Law walked out from the shadows together with Cora-San. Ace almost cursed himself for how unlucky he was. Ace glanced at Smoker, but the other man looked coldly at the Law and for a second Ace felt like hugging the grey hair, for feeling the same towards the surgeon, since everyone else seemed to accept or like him. The others stopped when they saw them, at least they hadn't planned on meeting them, which made Ace hope that they would just pass by them
"Great" Law muttered as Cora-San smiled giving his son a hug, but not saying anything as he lightened a cigarette only to catch fire. Law looked at the taller man as he threw some water on him, killing the fire. For a second they all just stared at each other, until Cora-San took Law's hand and started walking towards the stairs, only to fall and bring Law down with him.
"You are a walking disaster sometimes" Law muttered, giving the other man a cold glare but Ace could for a second see warmth in them and a small smile towards the other man.
"Rosinante?" Ace turned towards Smoker when he spoke, especially something that for him didn't make sense.
"Oh I think he knows who I am" Cora-San smiled towards Law as his son helped him raise to his feet.
"You think" Law answered sarcastically before Cora-San turned towards Smoker.
"Good evening Smoker"
"You are alive?" Smoker sounded surprised by this, just as surprised as Ace felt. How on fucking earth did Smoker now the clumsy tall man in front of them.
"I am" he answered "And look at you, all grown up"
Ace was surprised by the teasing voice, especially since it was in a friendly voice. Smoker only snorted as Cora-San turned towards Law.
"If you use that voice with me, I will cut you!" Law give Cora-San a deadly glare.
"Don't be like that!" Cora-San smiled. Law didn't answer, only giving Cora-San a look Ace couldn't read.
"It's just Smoker, he may not be a child anymore, but I can take care of myself" Cora-San gave Law another hug before the surgeon walked up the stairs.
Cora-San placed himself on one of the steps to the staircase, and Ace looked at both him and Smoker.
"So you joined a gang" Smoker sounded both disappointed and disgusted looking at Cora-San who didn't seem offended.
"No, I took my son and left. The marines weren't safe anymore, told Garp that before I left" Cora-San only answered. Ace was surprised to hear that Cora-San had known Garp.
"Leaving your father's legacy to crumble"
"He knew I would leave as soon as he died, even encouraged me to do so. You may judge me Smoker, however it's not your place to do so" Cora-San voice got colder as he talked with the marine. "Its noble what you are trying to do Smoker, and I can't imagine anyone doing a better job than you do, but it was never my life. I become a marine for one reason, and when I couldn't do that, I chose to keep my family safe"
"And leaving the rest of the city in fear" Smoker glared at the other man as Cora-San smiled a cold smile.
"My effort wouldn't have done any difference for the city, but it did for my kids" the smoke disappeared through Cora-San's lips as they looked at each other in silence, only to be interrupted by another set of steps.
"Ararara, isn't this a surprise" Ace saw the change in both of the men, Smoker seemed even angrier while Cora-San smiled.
"Good evening Aokiji" he even waved and the newly arrived man was about to answer when Smoker punched him in the face. Ace was taken by surprise by the other man's reaction.
"Hello Smoker" Aokiji was calm as he said those words, not even trying to hinder smoker as he punched him once more.
"Ten fucking years, not a word, and now you walk in her like nothing" Smoker shouted at the other man and Ace just tried to grasp the situation. Suddenly Cora-San stood up, sighing as he walked over, grabbing Smoker, forcing him to let go of Aokiji as he helped the other man to his feet.
"I have not been missing this" he glared at both of the younger men before he let go of them. "You clearly need to talk, in private"
Cora-San more or less guided both men towards the stairs, leaving Ace in the corridor.
Law looked at Cora-San when he walked towards them. "Try not to ruin my office"
Cora-San nodded towards Law as he entered with the other two and closed the door. Law's office was empty, and Cora-San walked over to the shelf where Law stashed his alcohol.
"Luffy is doing this because he wish to help my youngest son, and if you are going to help him, I can't have you two fighting, not out there on the battlefield." He turned towards them, glasses in hand.
"You sound like Sengoku" Aokiji said smiling.
"Minus the alcohol" Smoker added as he accepted the glass Cora-San was handing him.
"It has been a long time since I heard that" Cora-San smiled a bit, remembering his father.
"It has been a long time since you left the marines" Aokiji stated and Cora-San only nodded. "Was he, the boy you had with him back then"
Cora-San nodded in response, not wanting to talk too much about Law with the other men. Law was after all one of the most wanted men in town, and he had the leader of the Marines in front of him and a man that used to be second in command.
Cora-San looked at both men who had become silent, apparently unsure how to handle the situation. He had left the marines long before everything happened with Akainu and Aokiji's disappearing. He had a good idea of why and how it had happened, but he hadn't bothered to much as it happened, since he had left that world behind. If he was honest he hadn't been utterly close with the other men in front of him. Smoker had been a kid when he returned with Law, and despite that Aokiji who was closer towards his age, he wouldn't call him a friend. Back then he had only cared about the safety of Law and later on Bepo, and he had mostly spent his days with Sengoku or Garp. But he knew that the men in front of him had been friends.
"You want me to be like Sengoku for real and ordering you to talk with each other?" Cora-San looked at both of them before he took a sip at the glass, feeling he needed something stronger, and he thought of calling Crocodile after this. Hearing those words made the other two smile, and Cora-San thought that was a start at least.
"Ten years Aokiji!" Smoker tried to control his anger, ashamed that he had lost it before.
"I apologise for that" Aokiji sounded sincere, before he continued. "I was barely alive the first time, and when I come around it wasn't safe for me to contact you"
"How did you survive?" Smoker asked and Aokiji took a sip from his own glass.
"The revolutionary helped me" upon hearing that, Smoker seemed displeased, and Cora-San wasn't surprised. The revolutionaries rumours was as bad as some of the gangs, something Cora-San never understood, but he guessed they came from the noble families in town, and the ones with power.
"And when it was, you still didn't contact me. Why are you even back now?"
"You may have thought it was safe, but it wasn't. We tried to get rid of the threat but we haven't managed, not completely. And I am back because I noticed that Robin was in danger" Aokiji admitted looking at Smoker. "I would have done the same if I noticed you being in the same danger"
Smoker didn't answer him at first, clearly still mad.
"Is Vegapunk alive as well?" Smoker asked.
"I don't know. I haven't seen him since I left, I have tried to find him, but I haven't managed. The last I heard was that he was captured somewhere, but nothing more" Aokiji did nothing to hide his sorrow, and Smoker sighed.
"It's a shame, but getting two of your friends back at the same day, well that would be a fucking miracle in this town" Smoker stated looking at Aokiji who smiled.
"You got him back as well" Aokiji pointed at Cora-San who raised an eyebrow before he shook his head.
"No he didn't, because I am not leaving. After this we are still enemies. I have no intention to attack you Smoker, but if you would come after my children, I would" Cora-San made it clear and neither of the men doubted that the older man would do just that. They weren't sure of what the result would be. "But you never had me, so it isn't a lost"
Cora-San emptied his glass as he looked at the other men and they left the office to head towards the others, to hear what kind of plan Luffy had thought off.
"Does all of you understand the plan?" Luffy looked at the people standing around his bed, smiling. Most of them nodded and Luffy felt revealed. He knew that most of them were skilled fighter, but for all of them to accept the plan and understanding it pleased him. They were after all enemies, and normally you didn't help people in this town, unless you wanted something. Luffy was just lucky to have the brothers and friends he had. Luffy looked towards Senguko who was leaning at the wall, looking far from pleased and for a second Luffy felt a bit guilty, he didn't wish to force the other man to do something, but he wanted to help Sanji.
"Anything else we need to know?" Luffy asked and the others turned towards the surgeon as well.
"Has anyone of you fought them before?" he asked and no one answered. "Fucking great"
Senguko closed his eyes for a second and he seemed as he wanted to say something else when Cora-San calmed him down. Senguko looked at them before he gave Hawkins a look and the blonde smiled, before he handed out some papers.
"That's all you need to know" Luffy looked at the papers and he was fascinated by it. It had drawings of the armour they used, what functions the parts had, how many subordinates they had, maps over the room, and so much more.
"This is amazing, how did you get this?" Luffy smiled and Senguko only gave him a cold smiled that made him shiver, and Luffy decided that he didn't want to know anymore, and so did the others.
"When do we act?" Vista looked at him and Luffy looked at Senguko.
"You need at least one more week before your wounds are healed" he answered and Luffy smiled.
"There is your answer! Be ready" Luffy looked at all of them as they assured him they would be prepared. Luffy started reading his papers once more as he hoped everything would go well next week.