Kaku carefully hung a frame which contained the newspaper clipping of Kaku and Kate holding hands on the living room wall.
The caption read; "Runaways or Getaway?! The mysterious romance behind Galley La Walls!".
Kate rolled her eyes as she laughed. "You even got a frame for it eh?" She admired the wall. The wall was now decorated with several pictures of Kate, Kaku and of their friends on Water 7 and Monogatari. Cutter had sent Kate pictures of their friends at the orphanage as well as Mr. Omocha. He refused to send a picture of himself, insisting there was no need for it.
Kaku and Kate had spent the past few months renovating, and making their house a home. Kate had decided to take the week off to finish off a few smaller house projects.
Kaku hurriedly drank his coffee, having noticed the time. He grabbed a large plastic tube from off of the table. He had an important meeting with Iceburg, and Kalifa had been firm about showing up at least 5 minutes early.
The carpentry foreman gave Kate a slight pat on her backside, causing her to jump. "I'm off to work, honey! I'll see you tonight!" He pecked her on the cheek before rushing out the door.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Iceburg whistled as he sorted several papers on his desk. He smiled as Kaku walked in. "Good morning! Kalifa tells me you have some blueprints for me to look over?" He sat down, resting his hands on a bed made by his knuckles.
Kaku beamed. "Sure do!" He took a seat as he opened the tube, passing the pile of blue prints to his superior.
Iceburg nodded as he looked over the first two, a gasp escaping from his mouth once he reached the third blueprint. "Kaku...is this?!" He stood up from his seat, the blueprint still in his hands.
Kaku nodded. "Her parents are on an adventure out at sea, and she isn't sure she'll ever see them again...you're the closest thing to family she has, so I wanted to ask for your permission." He stood up from the chair.
Iceburg carefully laid the blueprint down, examining the intricately designed ring Kaku had drafted. It was a rose gold band decorated with several circular diamonds. The largest diamond in the middle was princess cut, with two smaller diamonds on either side of it. The piece holding the diamond in place looked like waves, and the inside of the band had the word "forever" engraved.
Iceburg's eyes watered as he ran around his desk to give Kaku a hug. "Of course. There's no one I trust more at Galley La than you, Kaku. You have been dependable, loyal and honest since you first started 5 years ago. You will make a fine husband for Kate." He pulled away, gently slapping the young man's face.
Kaku wiped a tear from his own eyes, his dreams seeming to come to life. He had discussed his decision with Lucci and the others and they agreed it would help strengthen the bond between him and Iceburg even more. As long as the wedding took place before their mission timeline ended- they assumed Iceburg would entrust Kaku with the secret blueprints by then. "Please take it out of my check..or two." He chuckled. "When should I start planning for it?" He was anxious to know how long it'd take for his sake and the other CP9 members.
Iceburg rolled up the blueprint, quickly heading for the door. "I'll have the ring to you by tomorrow morning!" He cheered before disappearing.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate rubbed her back as she admired the small wooden cabinet she had put together. She was feeling more tired than usual.
She was thinking of what to make for dinner, but had made some rice for her lunch. She opened the rice cooker, shutting it immediately as she ran to the washroom.
Why does the smell make me sick?!
She leaned over the toilet, holding her hair back as she emptied her stomach.
Kate laid on the floor as she caught her breath. She had been milling about since 5 in the morning.
I guess I really overdid it this time...
She cleaned herself up before heading to their bedroom for a nap.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kalifa, Lucci and Blueno waited for Kaku inside of Blueno's bar. It was just after 5 o'clock and the bar wouldn't be opening until 6.
Kaku happily walked in, shooting the others a thumbs up. Blueno and Kalifa smiled while Lucci rolled his eyes.
Hattori flew onto Lucci's shoulder as he stood up. "So you actually went through with it? You know, there are many other women in the world you have yet to discover..." he sighed. "Just get it over with as quickly as possible. We don't have much time, and even so- it isn't a guarantee Iceburg will trust you." He grabbed a drink from over the bar.
Kalifa rolled her eyes at Lucci. "I for one am looking forward to the future events." She adjusted her glasses, trying her hardest to repress how excited she truly was. Kate and Kaku were both close to her, and seeing them happy brought her joy.
Although, she also knew how it would end...
Kaku chuckled, taking in a deep breath. "Iceburg said he would get me the ring by tomorrow." Although it was only a day; it felt like an eternity to wait.
-.-.-..-.-.-
Kaku walked through the door, whistling as he closed it behind him. "Honey! I'm home!" He hung his keys on a small rack he had made by the door.
He raised an eyebrow at the packaging and spare wood pieces on the floor. It was unlike Kate to leave things laying about. "Sweetie?" He peeked into the kitchen, surprised to see Kate wasn't there. Kaku thought that she would have definitely been upset he was late for dinner, as she was quite "prickly" when she was hungry.
He quietly opened the door to their room, seeing Kate asleep on their bed.
Kaku changed into black sweatpants and a yellow t-shirt before laying beside her. "Honey, you doin' alright?" He stroked her hair.
Kate turned to him sleepily. "Hi honey." She yawned, rubbing her eyes as she looked at her watch. "What?! It's already almost 7?!" She sat up slowly, still as tired as she was earlier. "I'm sorry I didn't cook dinner. I'm feeling a bit off today." She gave him a quick kiss.
Kaku kissed her back before hopping out of bed. "Don't worry, doll! I'll quickly grab somethin' at the Café! You just rest your pretty little head, and I'll be back in a jiffy!" He quickly ran out the door, being rather hungry himself.
Kate happily ate the pizza Kaku had bought, her voracity making him laugh. "Woah! Slow down there, little lady!" He continued to laugh. "How long were you asleep for?" He continued to eat his slice.
Kate drank some water before thinking. "I think it was around 11? Definitely before lunch". She grabbed another slice from the box.
The shipwright continued to smile at her, resting his face on his hand as he continued to watch her eat.
Forever...
Kaku wiped his face, taking a sip of water. "Darlin', it's been a while and you've been workin' so hard. How 'bout you and I go on a date? Not tomorrow, but the next day?" He decided he didn't want to wait any longer than he needed to. He hadn't expected Iceburg to finish the ring so early, and this meant he'd only have tomorrow to plan how he would do it.
Kate laughed, finally feeling full from her 6th slice. "I'd love to!"
Kaku hummed as he washed the dishes. He insisted for Kate to get some rest. Not only because she was tired; but because he needed time to plan.
At the restaurant...no, that ain't original...maybe by the water?
Kaku and Kate had tried to go swimming a few weeks earlier. Kate spent most of her time sitting on the dock, refusing to jump in. Kaku had promised her that he'd help her until she was no longer afraid of the water.
That's perfect! It'll be a good memory, and she'll be happy whenever she sees the water!
Kaku but his lip as he snapped his finger, his plan finally coming along.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
The next morning, Kate sighed as she looked at the kitchen table. Kaku had been in a bigger rush than yesterday to go to work that he had forgotten his lunch.
Looks like I'm going to have to pay him a visit!
-.-.-.-.-.-
Kaku's hands shook as he opened the box, a small gasp escaping his lips as he looked at the ring. It was exactly as he had pictured it. "Iceburg! This is fantastic!" His hands continued to shake.
Iceburg laughed, feeling somewhat proud of his work. He was new to the jewelry business and was happy to hear he had succeeded. "Hm...well; when will you be asking Kate?" He lifted his eyebrows.
Kaku closed the box, a look of determination on his face. "I'll be asking her tomorrow!"
Kalifa came into the room, looking slightly worried. "I'm sorry to interrupt. Kaku, I need to go over yours and Lucci's duties quickly. There's a small revision that needs to be made." She looked over at Iceburg. "I'll be right back." She adjusted her glasses, nodding for Kaku to follow her.
Kaku placed the box in his pocket, his intuition signaling that something was wrong.
The 4 members met inside of Blueno's bar.
Lucci slowly swirled a glass of whiskey. "It seems luck is on our side. I've gotten word that the Straw Hat Pirates are on our island, and I'd suspect they're hoping to buy a ship." He handed a small glass to Hattori.
Blueno raised a brow. "I've read about them in the newspaper. How does that benefit us?" The large man was unsure of what their leader was thinking, which seemed to be the case most of the time.
Lucci laughed. "I can't believe you all don't see it! Their infamous reputation is precisely what we'll use to our advantage." He quickly drank the remnants of his glass. "Using the demon child Nico Robin...We're going to frame them...for the murder of Iceburg." He smirked. "The World Government isn't happy with how uncooperative he has been. Think of it as killing 3 birds with 1 stone."
The three gasped. Though they had been undercover; Iceburg had been kind to all of them. Kalifa and Kaku especially taking the turn of events quite hard.
Kaku shot up immediately. "Pardon? I thought we agreed we wouldn't kill. Besides that- we have a plan. I'm go-" Kaku was silenced by Lucci appearing mere centimeters from his face, now in his zoan form. The leader growled before turning back into his human form, grabbing a bottle of wine from the bar.
Kaku pondered for a moment. Leaving Kate was one thing, but he refused to take any part in taking the life of Iceburg. The World Goverment had gone too far.
Kalifa looked at him worriedly, knowing he was probably going to say something he'd regret.
Kaku stood back up, a look of determination on his face. "Everyone, I'm sorry but I've decided to leave CP9." He had finally had enough. He knew they wouldn't let him off easy, but he had to try.
Kalifa and Blueno gasped, while Lucci crushed the bottle of wine in his hand. "Excuse me?"
Kaku expected this kind of reaction, and knew the only thing to do was to stand his ground. "I made a sacrifice for the mission that I simply cannot walk away from. I will talk to Spandam at our next meeting."
Silence filled the room before it was broken by Lucci's cackling. "Oh Kaku, you foolish boy. Are you talking about marrying that wench? That's an easy fix...we simply kill her. It can be quick...or would you prefer it to be slow?"
A chord snapped in Kaku as he lunged towards Lucci. Blueno appeared in front of Kaku just before he could reach the fake mute and shook his head, mouthing the words 'don't'.
Lucci rose from his seat, pushing Blueno out of the way. "So your feelings have been real all along?"
The long nosed assassin looked as if he would start foaming at the mouth. He couldn't contain his rage. While he knew they wouldn't be happy with his decision, he wasn't expecting Lucci to even suggest something so inhumane..
But then again- was lying to Kate about who he was any more humane?
Kaku took a breath and avoided eye contact with Lucci, certain the pigeon master would try and provoke him.
"Don't...don't even think about laying a finger on her. I swear if you do- I will kill you myself." He panned his head around the room to look at the others. "I'll kill every single one of you." He hadn't felt his kind of rage since he saw Nash and his goons try and take advantage of Kate in the alley that day.
Lucci placed a hand on Kaku's shoulder.
"Easy little brother, we won't touch your pet...that's as long as you follow through with the mission."
Kaku sneered. "You know why I can't do that. My obligation to Kate is greater than this mission."
Lucci kicked Kaku in the stomach hard enough to send him flying across the room.
"Listen here, you brat! I didn't spend 5 years of my life working on this God forsaken island for this mission just so you could drop everything. It's either you finish the mission and disappear, or you stay here- and Kate is the one to go."
Kaku struggled back onto his feet, wiping the blood from his mouth.
Lucci picked him up by the collar. "Threaten us all you want, you aren't strong enough to defeat me." He released Kaku and straightened out his jacket.
"It's either you help dispose of Iceburg, or I dispose of Kate. The choice is yours." He licked the wine off of his hand.
Kaku left the room immediately, slamming the door behind him.
Kalifa ran to her leader's side. "Lucci..."
The black haired assassin sat back down on the couch, sighing out of frustration. "It's all my fault, Kalifa." Him and Kalifa had regretted their decision to allow Kaku to continue his relationship with Kate, knowing all along that it wasn't a farce.
The blonde beauty shook her head. "It's all our faults. None of us stopped him, yet we all knew the truth. He truly cares for her."
Bluenoe walked closer to his comrades.
"All of us wanted to see him happy. It's his first mission. He doesn't have the kind of baggage that we do... If anyone could leave this life it's him."
Hattori snuggled Lucci's head to comfort him, and received a pet in return. "If there were a way, I would've let him be. We all know that there is no such thing as defecting from CP9 unless it's in a body bag... I thought we'd have more time to maybe find a solution... Kaku isn't like us."
He snarled. "Doesn't help that the World Government rats are on the island, and now making demands."
Even the cold hearted Lucci felt remorse over having to murder Iceburg. The opportunity was too perfect, that the World Government would reprimand them if they didn't take it.
Their mission was almost over.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate held Kaku's lunch in her lap as she waited at his work station. She smiled at a copy of their picture in the newspaper pinned on his wall. Kate adjusted her jeans, untucking her grey t-shirt.
Tilestone walked in holding a rolled up blueprint, Paulie following close behind. "HI KATE! I THOUGHT YOU WERE OFF TODAY?" He made his way over to Kaku's calendar.
Kate laughed at the two men. "Hi! Nope, just dropping off Kaku's lunch!" Her smile dropped as she watched Tilestone take the magnets from Kaku's calendar and use them to hang the blueprint he had worked on.
Paulie groaned, quickly removing the blueprint, and placing the magnets back onto the calendar in different spots than they were in before. "How many times do I need to tell you?! Just leave it on his desk, you dumbass! You're not a kid showing off their work on a fridge." He chewed on his cigar, gasping when he saw Kate. "Kate! You don't look so good. You okay?"
Kate had gone a pale white. "How...how long has Tilestone been doing that?" She pointed at the calendar.
Paulie laughed. "Oh, since you guys got back pretty much. This idiot keeps insisting it's a good idea."
The two men looked at each other as Kate left Kaku's lunch on his desk, running out of the work station.
I told him it was a bad idea to leave the calendar at work...
As much as she wanted to blame Kaku- she should have also been tracking her cycle. The way she had been feeling the past few days, along with the information regarding the calendar made her panic.
What do I do...
Kate patiently sat on the toilet, a pink stick laying on the sink. She took a deep breath, closing her eyes before grabbing the test.
She opened them and saw 2 pink lines. Kate placed a hand on her belly.
"Shit."
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Cutter rolled his eyes as he looked at the portrait style picture he had taken. He was wearing his formal uniform, his usual scowl on his face.
Kate hadn't written back since he sent the pictures of the others for her living room. He figured she was upset he hadn't included a picture of himself.
Of course she would hold a grudge...
He smiled at himself as he inserted the picture into an envelope, double checking his letter before sealing it completely.
Cutter had received word that the CP9 mission on Water 7 would be coming to an end soon. Judging by Kate's last letter- Kaku still hadn't come clean.
What the hell is that guy planning on doing?
He placed his letter in the mail box, hoping it wouldn't be too long until Kate replied again.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kaku fumbled with a large skull mask, an awkward silence filling the air as him and Lucci worked side by side.
Kalifa had formulated the plan, and Blueno was currently guarding Nico Robin. Lucci and him were to finish completing their costumes.
The carpentry foreman sighed, thinking about the condition the Straw Hat's ship was in.
They don't seem all that bad...poor kids.
He looked at the clock. It was already 5 o'clock.
Kate's gonna ream me out for sure...
As much as he wanted to leave; Lucci had been clear about his conditions. Kaku didn't dare risk Kate's life.
Don't wait up for me...
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate pulled the castella cake from the oven, topping it with whipped cream and sliced bananas.
She had also made Kaku's favourite apple curry with chicken and various vegetables.
Kate smiled as she rubbed her belly. "I can't wait to tell your papa the good news."
As nervous as she was; she couldn't deny she was excited. Although it was an "accident", her and Kaku had talked about how they both wanted children. There was no doubt in her mind that Kaku would make an excellent father.
What if it's too soon...?
Would Kaku be mad? Would he be happy?
She shook her head. No matter what; she would do her best to keep their baby safe.
It was almost 6 in the evening. Kate laid out the food as she waited patiently at the table for Kaku to come home.
-.-.-.-.-.-
By the time Kaku came home, it was almost midnight.
He bit his lip when he saw Kate had fallen asleep at the table. Not only had she tried to wait up for him; she also made all his favorites.
Darn...it's almost as if she knows what's coming...
He rubbed her shoulder to try and wake her, but she was fast asleep.
Kaku carried Kate to their bed, kissing her head as he tucked her in.
Kate pulled the covers tighter over herself. "Love you, papa." She began to snore.
Kaku stifled his chuckle.
She's probably dreaming about her parents...
He sat at the kitchen table and sobbed as he ate the food Kate had prepared for him. It would be his last home made meal by her. He savored every bite, making sure not to leave a single crumb.
Kaku listened to make sure Kate was still asleep before taking down any pictures that had him in them from the wall.
He then made his way back to their room and began to pack his things. Kalifa insisted it would help Kate heal if there weren't constant reminders of him everywhere.
The news of Iceburg's attempted murder would break first thing in the morning. At that time the Galley La Foremen would be summoned to protect him and the Straw Hats would be wanted by the whole city.
Kaku laid beside Kate, silent as he watched her sleep. He scoffed at how foolish he was. Did he really think he'd find a way to make things work?
Her safety came above everything else. He had considered running away with her that night, but knew Lucci would expect it. He would kill her on the spot without hesitation.
He wrapped an arm around her, his hand on her stomach. Failing to hold in a soft chuckle.
Feels like she ate quite a bit again.
Kaku pulled the ring box from his pocket, holding the ring against Kate's hand. "I'm sorry I won't be able to give you this...I hope you find someone more deserving of you than I am." He returned the ring to his pocket.
He smelled Kate's hair as he held her tighter, closing his eyes to memorize every detail. "Kate, I love you. I'm so sorry." He kissed her cheek before falling asleep.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
"KAKU! KAKU!" Tilestone pounded desperately on the door. "KAKU!"
Though it was early in the morning; the people of Water 7 moved in somewhat of a panic. Iceburg had been shot, and the Straw Hat Pirates were the culprits.
Kalifa had sent Tilestone to get Kaku, stating Iceburg needed protection in case they returned.
Kate rubbed her eyes, woken up by the ruckus outside. "Kaku?" She watched as the shipwright hurriedly changed into his work clothes. "What's going on?!" She got up slowly, making sure to be careful with her stomach.
Kaku fumbled with his jeans, holding himself back from crying. "One of the Straw Hat pirates tried to murder Iceburg last night. The foremen are being summoned as security in case they come back to finish the job." He turned to her, a sad look in his eyes.
Kate nodded, opening her closet as she quickly pulled out some clothes.
Kaku quickly made his way over to her. "Woah woah! What are you doing, doll?!" He looked over at her worriedly.
Kate began to change her shirt. "I'm coming with you. I need to be there for Iceburg." She furrowed her brows when Kaku pulled her arms down. "What's up?"
Kaku shook his head as he took Kate's face into his hands. "It's too dangerous, honey. I know Iceburg would want you to stay safe. Not only that, Aqua Laguna is supposed to be coming tonight." He stroked her cheek. "I'm gonna make my way over there now. Don't leave the house until I come back, got it?" He kissed her gently. He didn't want to risk her getting hurt...or seeing who he truly was.
Kate grit her teeth. As much as she wanted to be there for Iceburg; she had to stay safe. There was someone else she needed to look after now.
She shot up, realizing she hadn't talked to Kaku last night. "Okay...but, can we talk when you get back?" She watched his expression worriedly. Kate didn't feel it was right to tell him the news during such a dire situation.
Kaku's hands remained on her face. "Sure thing." He kissed her again. "Promise me you'll always stay safe?" He gave her another kiss, fighting back his tears.
Kate nodded. "You're the one who needs to stay safe!" She wrapped her arms around his waist, squeezing him tightly.
Tilestone continued to pound on the door. "KAKU!"
Kaku gently pulled away from Kate, holding her by the shoulders as he examined her...not wanting to forget a single detail of how she looked. "I gotta go, kitten." He hugged her before kissing her deeply. "I love you. So much. Don't you forget that." He kissed her forehead before heading towards the door.
Kate called after him. "Kaku! I love you!" She smiled as she patted her ring on her necklace 3 times.
Kaku smiled, returning the action.
As hard as he fought; he couldn't stop the one tear from falling.
Goodbye, Kate.
He would never see her again.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Iceburg laid in bed, aware of the situation he was in. The World Government would be coming for the blueprints as soon as he died. "Kalifa..." he called his secretary, wanting to ask her to summon Kaku to his room. He was the one he trusted the most out of the Galley La Foremen.
Kalifa quickly made her way over. "Yes, Iceburg?" She felt her heart sink, knowing what was to come.
Iceburg thought carefully about his decision. There would be no peace on Water 7 until the World Government obtained what they wanted...
No, I can't risk them coming after him and Kate in the future...
He smiled at his secretary. "I'd like to speak with Paulie in private."
-.-.-.-.-.-
In a turn of events- the CP9 members along with Nico Robin surrounded Iceburg in his room.
Kaku held onto Iceburg's wrist, trying to communicate with him using morse code how sorry he was.
I never wanted this to happen, Iceburg. I hope you can forgive me someday. I will always be grateful to you.
Iceburg didn't reply, still in shock that some of his closest friends had been lying to him for all these years. He didn't want to believe it.
What about Kate?!
He wanted answers, but didn't dare bring her up while they were trying their hardest to extract information from him. The last thing he wanted was for them to use her as leverage. He began to doubt whether Kaku had cared for Kate after all...
Iceburg glared at the former carpentry foreman, realizing that Kaku was probably using Kate to earn his trust this whole time. It was one thing to fool him, but to put Kate through such a farce was unforgivable.
I trusted you...she trusted you...
-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate sat cross legged on the bed as she waited anxiously. She was feeling shaken from the explosion earlier, and had to distract herself from thinking the worst. It took every ounce of strength to stop herself from running to Galley La.
She was reading a book about pregnancy, and wanted to make sure she learned the most important aspects. Knowing Kaku; he would study every book possible as soon as she told him the news...that's if he were happy about it.
I wonder what he'll say...
She looked out the window, the starry sky covered by the glow of flames and painted grey with smoke.
Please be okay, Kaku...
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kaku tied Paulie and Iceburg up slowly, waiting for the others to leave ahead of him. As soon as the coast was clear, he loosened their restraints. "I don't have much time, but know that I'm sorry. I never meant for any of this to happen." He bit his lip as Iceburg and Paulie replied with silence.
Kaku pulled the ring box from his pocket, placing it inside of Iceburg's breast pocket. "I know I have no right to ask you for any favors. But...please look after Kate. I wish I could be the one, but she deserves better than a chump like me. I never lied about loving her." He smiled at Iceburg one last time. "Thank you, Iceburg." He was gone in an instant.
Iceburg sat there dumbfounded. He felt an odd sense of relief come over him from knowing that Kaku hadn't been lying to Kate about his feelings. He found solace in that fact.
He struggled to free himself from his restraints. The Mayor could only imagine the devastation Kate would feel when the news of Kaku's "passing" reached her. He had to be there for her. He had failed to protect her once, and he swore he wouldn't fail again. He had to live.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
All CP9 members sat inside of Spandam's office.
Jabra panicked as Kaku and Kalifa stared at the devil fruits in front of them. "Don't do it! Are you crazy?! That thing's evil! Also, they taste like crap I tell you! Crap!" He watched from over their shoulders. After having Lucci surpass him; he knew that Kaku wouldn't be far behind once he ate the devil fruit.
Kaku continued to think. Like Lucci said; there was no way he'd get weaker...
He thought back on all the moments he wished he was stronger. Maybe if he was; he would have been able to stand up to Lucci. He would have been able to fight off whomever he needed to in order to save his relationship with Kate. The situation he was in was because he wasn't strong enough.
If he ever got the chance to see her again; he would make sure he would be able to protect her from anything and anyone. He decided it would be foolish not to take this opportunity.
The wolf man screamed as Kaku and Kalifa ate the devil fruits.
Kaku prayed as the taste of the fruit became even more disgusting each time he chewed.
Please make me stronger...
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kaku entered his room. It had been so long since he last stepped foot in it. The various books were still in the order he had left them in, and it looked as if no one had sat in his chair. The collection of breakables still in their original places on the shelves.
He dusted his chair off before sitting, burying his face in his hands.
A giraffe?! Really?
Kaku remembered when Kate told him about how Cutter had saved her from the Red Raven gang, going off about how amazing his Devil Fruit was.
He made his way over to the grandfather clock, looking at his reflection as giraffe horns and ears popped from his head.
Kaku groaned, slapping his face. "I gotta focus!" He looked at his reflection once again. "It ain't about the devil fruit ya get, but how ya use it!" A fierce determination came over him as he began to explore his newly acquired powers.
I will become stronger!
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kaku never returned home that night.
Kate wasn't one to break a promise, but she couldn't wait any longer. She quickly dressed into jeans and a black t-shirt before making her way over to Galley La.
She grabbed the handgun and knife Cutter had given her from her bedside drawer. There was no telling what had happened last night, and she had to be prepared for anything.
Kate gasped as soon as she saw Galley La. Most of the main building had been destroyed.
No...Kaku!
She began to run to the entrance, but was stopped by a hand on her wrist. "LET GO OF ME!" She reached into her handbag, but stopped once she met eyes with Iceburg. "Iceburg...you're alright!" Her eyes began to well up, looking at how badly injured he was. She hugged him gently, thankful he was alright.
Iceburg patted her on the head, still tired from having worked on The Merry during the storm. "I'm fine. No need to worry about me." He pulled her into a hug, unsure of how he would tell her the news.
Kate pulled away to look at Iceburg. "Is Kaku alright?" Her heart was beginning to race, Iceburg's silence increasing her anxiety.
Iceburg panicked, unsure of what the right thing to say was. "There are...several people missing at the moment. It could be a while until we find them. Stay with me until then." He stroked her head.
Kate looked desperately into the building. There were still pieces of the building falling, and it was clouded in dust. There was no way for her to safely search for herself. She had promised Kaku she would stay safe, and she had already broken one of her promises. She didn't intend to break another one.
Please be okay, Kaku...
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
"There's always the zoo." Zoro looked down at his fallen opponent, feeling a sense of sympathy. It was clear Kaku wasn't a bad person, but was simply bound by an unfortunate fate.
Kaku laughed. "You're right." He reached for the key in his pocket, dropping it before he could hand it to the swordsman.
As bad as Zoro felt; Kaku was still the enemy. His objective was to save Robin and no one else. "Sorry."
Zoro picked the key up from the floor. He went to walk away, but was stopped by a faint whisper.
Kaku coughed to clear the blood from his throat. "Roronoa...there's a girl back on Water 7. She works for the mayor." He continued to cough. "She's the prettiest little thing. Long black hair, a dimple, and the sweetest brown eyes." He smiled thinking about how Kate looked first thing in the morning.
Zoro turned around fully to face the long nosed man. "What about her?"
Kaku sighed. "Could you...tell her not to wait for me?" A tear fell from his eyes as he finally gave in to his injuries, losing consciousness.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Jabra quickly ran through the building. "Where is that idiot?!" He sniffed the air, desperate to find Kaku.
He had made a promise to Kate, and had intended to keep it.
I'll keep him safe! I'm a good man!
The wolf man found Kaku on the grass, barely breathing. "You idiot! How could you allow yourself to almost get killed?!" He carried Kaku on his back.
CP9 had failed their mission to detain Nico Robin as well as obtain the secret blue prints. The World Government was now hunting for them. Blueno had made a safe space using his ability, and the members were to rendezvous there once the missing members were found.
Kaku opened his eyes, seeing nothing but Jabra's black hair. "Kate." He snuggled into Jabra's head before passing out once again.
Live, kid.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Iceburg looked over the list of people who were still missing. Everyone had been found except for Lucci, Kalifa, Blueno, and Kaku...
Kate stood anxiously in front of her superior. "What are the chances 4 integral members of Galley La are missing?! Iceburg...something seems fishy here. What if they were kidnapped?! What if-" Kate stopped as Iceburg slammed his fist on his desk.
Kate had been constantly asking for any updates regarding Kaku. He knew he couldn't tell her the truth, but didn't know what the right thing to do was. The chances of Kaku coming back were slim to none. "Kate, we're doing everything we can at the moment. Hm...well...would you please go check on the Straw Hats and make sure they're alright?" He stood up from his desk. "I'm going to go back and work on their ship." He walked towards the door.
Kate was taken aback by Iceburg's unusual behaviour, however, she understood how much pressure he must have been under. "Okay, I'll do that..." She looked at the list Iceburg had been reading, a quizzical look on her face when she noticed all the names including Kaku's had been crossed out.
Why would he do that?
The Straw Hat pirates celebrated their victory at Galley La in a suite Iceburg had provided them. Luffy insisted they go see the progress on the ship Iceburg and Franky were building for them.
Zoro woke up from his nap and looked around their room at Galley La to see where the other Strawhats had gone.
He only knew that Sanji had gone to the kitchen to scope out new recipes, since he always liked to keep tabs on the curly eyebrowed man.
The swordsman stretched before noticing someone at the door.
He went to grab a sword but then stopped as soon as Kate showed herself.
She wore a simple white dress and heels. Although she had her make up done; he could tell she was exhausted due to her swollen eyes.
This was his first time seeing her, but he knew she was who Kaku had told him about. He began to understand why she looked that way...
Kate pulled out a clipboard. "Sorry, Mr. Roronoa? Yes, the others had already chosen what they'd like for lunch and I wanted to make sure you ordered as well."
She handed him a clipboard with a few items listed beside check boxes.
Kate sighed to herself.
Kalifa was the one who would be doing this if she were here...
She bit her lip. 3 members of Galley La had disappeared and she seemed to be the only one who truly cared. She kept telling herself people coped with tragedy differently.. but why did it seem as if they were hiding something from her?
Wanting to make small talk to distract herself, she looked at Zoro's bandages. "Wow, you must have been in a fierce battle! I'd hate to see the other guy!"
Zoro clenched his jaw as he handed her back the clipboard. "Thanks." The whole situation was making him uncomfortable.
Kate looked it over to make sure he had checked everything off.
Zoro played back what Kaku said in his mind.
"Could you...tell her not to wait for me?"
Kate signed off the bottom of the paper and turned towards the door. "Is there anything else I can help you with?"
Zoro stared at her...unsure of what to say.
No, I'm no messenger.
"Are there any...zoos on this island?"
Kate shook her head. "I'm afraid not. The closest one is by sea train, but even so-It's a 3 hour commute."
Zoro nodded, processing the information. "I see. Do you...like giraffes?"
Kate tilted her head; surprised by the unusual question. "I guess? They're pretty neat."
Before she could ask why; Zoro smiled as he exited past her.
I hope he makes it back somehow..
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Iceburg returned late to Galley La. The Straw Hats had set sail on the 'Thousand Sunny', acquiring Franky as their new shipwright. It felt as if a chapter in his life had closed. He gasped when he saw Kate in his office, tidying up several papers. The mayor looked at his watch, noticing how late it was. "Kate...why are you still here?" He swallowed hard, knowing he had to give her an answer.
Kate smiled at him wearily. "I just wanted to keep busy..." She held her arm. "I'm sorry I keep asking, but I need to know...have you heard any news about Kaku?" She tried her best to remain positive, knowing it's what Kaku would have done in her situation.
Please tell me he's okay...
Iceburg looked at Kate, noticing how exhausted she was. As long as she thought Kaku was alive- she wouldn't give up. He knew what the right thing to do was; no matter the consequences. Iceburg took a deep breath closing his eyes. "One of the biggest explosion points was where the foremen were guarding me. Though the radius wasn't that large; it turned everything within it to dust." He clenched his jaw. "Kate...I'm sorry. Kaku, didn't make it." He opened his eyes which were now filled with tears.
Kate stood there frozen, dropping the papers that were in her hand. Her heart began to palpitate before stopping, causing her to faint.
Kaku...
"KATE!"
Iceburg rushed to her side, picking her up princess style. He panicked when he felt a warmth seeping onto his right hand. "Blood?!" He looked Kate over, realizing the blood was coming from her lower region. "Oh no..."
The mayor waited outside Kate's room as the medical team at the hospital attached several machines to her. The hour seemed like eternity as Iceburg prayed for an answer on the status of Kate's condition.
A doctor came out, a face mask hiding his expression. "She will be fine...but, we weren't able to save the baby." He removed his mask, a remorseful look on his face.
Iceburg took a step back. "The...the baby?" He looked over at Kate who was asleep in her bed. He had suspected that were the case when he picked her up, but had hoped it wasn't.
The doctor nodded his head, realizing Iceburg didn't know. "She was about 3 months along. I'm so sorry. I had the remains removed to avoid any further complications. Our hospital offers counseling for these kinds of losses if you, or the patient would like more information on that. Do you have any questions?"
Iceburg felt his blood run cold. Had he told her in a different matter; maybe she wouldn't have fainted. Maybe she wouldn't have lost the baby. The only part of Kaku that remained in her life; taken away by his impatience.
It's all my fault...
He quickly ran into Kate's room, kneeling by her side as he sobbed into the bed. "Forgive me, Kate. Forgive me." He looked up at the sky. "Forgive me, Kaku." He continued to weep, the only other sounds being the beeping of the machines.