Elseworld

by BIGT707

In an Alternate timeline Monkey D Luffy and his alliance suffer a crushing defeat at the hands of Kaido. After a victory over Blackbeard a tragedy strikes at the end of the world war. These chain of events cause Luffy and his crew to separate leading him to become a ruthless governing body over the free world willing to break anyone standing in the Regime's path. (Secret War Arc)

2. Enter Strawhats

Less than two months ago..

The theory which Luffy had evolved in his vagabond days in Foosha Village with his two brothers Ace and Sabo and never forgotten— that the way for a revolutionary movement was to ally itself with some of the most powerful institutions in the known world. Knowing this the straw hats smartly allied themselves among the Ninja-Pirate-Mink-Samurai alliance. Still, it was all for naught and yet Kaido was too strong. The combined strength of Monkey D Luffy, Trafalgar D Water Law, Eustace Kidd, Stratchmen Appo, and Basil Hawkins did not come close to putting a dent into Kaido's true strength. Unimpressed the emperor grew disinterested ultimately allowing a retreat. It was the most shame Luffy had felt as a pirate that day. Giving the signal to tell everyone to retreat felt like death but he knew regardless he was responsible for the well being of not only his crew, but the pirates in his alliance.

As the Sunny disembarked from the Land of Wano, Luffy was still staring off into the distance until ultimately the land disappeared. 'Worth 1,500,000,000 huh? I don't deserve it.' Feeling his blood boil he began to head for the middle deck to see where his crew was. They were all probably up to their own business, it was none of his. Taking a few steps forward he nearly fell over a pair of outstretched legs.

"Oi watch where your going yo- Ah captain, thought you were shitty cook." Zoro said yawning loudly before shifting his attention back to his captain. He immediately could tell the solemn look in the young man's eyes. It hurt him as his vice captain to see the first retreat effect his captain.

Clearing his throat the green haired samurai spoke. "Look Luffy, I don't disagree with what you did, but when remember what I said before, don't waver or who can we trust?"

The rubber man contemplated before answering. "I know but-" He was hesitant. "In my gut, it tells me I made a mistake."

"I want you to remember what I'm saying Luffy so listen up." Luffy leaned closer eager to hear the rare advice Zoro dishes out. Usually his vice captain's advice was golden, it wouldn't fail him this time. "Being a good leader doesn't predicate itself just on good or bad decisions. Every good leader makes a questionable decision, the difference is a bad leader will not take responsibility for his mistakes and will not admit he's wrong. That's not you captain, so if you felt you messed up, accept responsibility and move on. We will have another crack at him and his crew, that's a promise." Zoro finished glancing to see the captain's hat covering his eyes.

"Whenever I need some sage advice, I can always count on you vice captain." Luffy grinned. " I appreciate it Zoro."

Zoro just waved his hand shooing his captain away. "Ah you give me to much praise captain, but it ain't free, I need sake." The swordsman started drooling a puddle around himself thinking about sweet sake.

The captain just wiped his tears of laughter with his red charigan. Zoro was truly his brother, always having his back in the best and the worst of times, he had a natural bluntness to his words that he needed to hear. It wasn't some over dramatic monologue or utter nonsense. It was the right mix that he felt Ace or Sabo would've given him the same speech.

"Oi then Zoro, I'll find some Sake and bring it to ya!" Luffy stated heading to the upper deck.

"Good! Don't wake me tell you find some idiot captain!" Zoro said smirking back into his slumber.

Luffy could only shake his head at his vice captains antics before wondering who he should check in with first. The one thing they always had while traveling one place to another was time. After making his decision to retreat he wondered if his crew would think any less of him. Zoro certainly didn't so maybe there was hope they all would feel the same. It was doubtful though, the one eyed swordsman was one of the most carefree members of the crew when it came to Luffy's decisions.

A yell from inside the infirmary broke him out of this thoughts. Heading inside the cabin, Luffy continued down the hall passing a few doors tell he turned left down another hallway to the end of it which lead to Chopper's infirmary. Luffy entered the moderately sized room seeing what was happening. Immediately a familiar sing song voice rang out.

"Namiii Swaaan! Robinnn Chaaan! Thank you two beauties for visiting me!" Sanji proclaimed to the two ladies who wore relieved smiles their beloved cook was feeling better.

Luffy could see that Sanj's dominant left leg was incapacitated, hanging tightly at an upwards angle to help it heal. Luffy could see the sweat dripping from Chopper's forehead as he tirelessly worked to secure his patient.

"Sanji! Try not to bleed too much I just changed the sheets!" Chopper yelled trying to shake Sanji's head to grab his attention to no avail.

"Sanji you have to stop putting yourself in danger for us, we can take care of ourselves." Nami states crossing her arms while knocking on the hard cast.

"Yes, Sanji. You have to trust us to handle ourselves we feel guilty over what happened." Robin said crossing her arms to not taking her eyes off the cast that engulfed Sanji's left leg.

Choppers head snapped up at the sight of Sanji breaking free of his love struck trance at the two beauties before answering seriously. "I'm sorry ladies, but I cannot, it is a man's duty to always protect the loves of his—"

"Sanji!" Both the ladies screamed causing the heart eyes to reappear.

"Yes whatever you say! I love you guys!" Sanji says excitedly trying to desperately to grasp onto the two beauties.

Luffy continued to watch from the door with an amused silence. It was good the crew supporting each other when the other was down. It was the kind of positive reinforcement Luffy knew his crew needed right now. The four occupants were to busy to notice a certain straw hat captain knock on the door.

The group turned towards the door to see Luffy grinning slightly hoping to continue the mood. "Hey guys." He simply said rubbing the back of his neck.

Nami was taken aback by the sudden appearance of their captain. She shifted slightly on her heels. "Luffy.." was all she could manage a slight smile tugged on her lips.

Robin beamed her captain a warm smile. It was good to see he was in a somewhat better mood then he when first returned to the ship. It was a good sign.

"Hey Luffy!" Chopper smiled getting a wave back from Luffy.

"Oi shitty captain! Thanks for coming to see me finally." Sanji said giving a genuine smile making Luffy beam his own. " ah come on, I couldn't let Zoro beat me here." Luffy laughed scratching the back of his head.

"Ah, shitty marimo! I hope he doesn't visit!" Sanji yelled comically waving his hands.

Robin noticed out of the corner of her eye Nami couldn't keep her attention off of her captain. Not that she minded it, but this wasn't exactly the ideal place to be eye hustling him.

"Nami, could you accompany me to the forecastle?" Breaking the younger woman out of her thoughts she nodded and they were off not before Nami took one last glance at Luffy who didn't fail to return one of his own, the two locking eyes for a brief moments. This did not go unnoticed by the rest of the group.

"Come back anytime ladies!" Sanji waved dramatically with tears. "Please come back..." he whispered comically low enough so only he heard.

Chopper finished his checkup on the cook, then began gathering his supplies. "I'm all done here Luffy if you need me I'll-"

Luffy cut him off. "Sorry to ask. But could you hold up a minute, I won't bug Sanji too long."

"Yeah sure! I'll be outside." Chopper hurriedly exclaimed heading for the door. Once it was shut Luffy took a seat on a chair perpendicular to Sanji so he could see him clearly.

"Zoro is worried about ya y'know, shishishi!" laughed Luffy sporting his signature chuckle. Sanji wanted nothing more than hell to kick the captain for that comment and kick the hell out of Zoro for just for existing.

Sanji responded, "Shut up! I kill you both!" Fire burning in the blonde's eyes. It was all in good fun of course these two could have a field day.

Luffy was glad Sanji hadn't allowed his old self to completely shut off after incident at Whole Cake Island. He could still see the same remnants of his old self but he seemed more reserved, reflective? The straw hat captain assumed it could still be about what he put the rest of them through. Maybe it was the death of the Pedro that changed him. As much as Luffy wanted to denounce the idea; it was indirectly Sanji's fault for getting Pedro killed. Even if it wasn't his fault for Capone Bege capturing him, the events all lead up to Pedro's death. A cruel reminder of the casualties of war and the sacrifices they make to save friends. It could be Pudding. Remembering the three eyed woman was still under the influence of Big Mom angered Luffy. She was just like Sanji, they were forced together as victims of their circumstances.

"Glad your alright Sanji! Even though I won't get meat anytime soon." The last part was a bit depressing even for Luffy.

Sanji just shook his head. Lighting a cigarette he turned serious. "It's really nothing to worry about man, I'll be back in no time."

"Great to hear, take all the time you need!" Luffy kept his positive attitude but seemed to be in deep thought.

If there was one thing Sanji learned about Luffy after all this time, besides being an idiot sometimes and selfish. He was one hell of a deep thinker at times it even shocked the hell of him. When the situation called for him to think on his toes in a duel to beat an opponent or get out of situation he always excelled, it amazed the cook to end. Sometimes he used that same thing when he was on the ship, thinking deeply but never letting you truly know; a true master at hiding it.

"Did I make the right call at Wano? In my gut it feels weak to retreat is that wrong?" Luffy asked crossing his arms hoping for an enlightened answer from his chef.

"Hell I felt the same way. I broke my leg and I still wanted to fight. But you made the right call, you've saved a lot of lives today." Sanji could see the answer did not elicit a reaction from his captain so he continued, "On our way back, I noticed that you and Trafalgar, along with the others evacuated the citizens into Ally ships. You saved lives, take pride in that man." Sanji finished puffing his cigarette.

Luffy hadn't thought about it that way. Zoro didn't mention anything about the humanitarian deed he did. It figures the main difference between Sanji and Zoro. Sanji loves people (women), and Zoro doesn't like much of anyone. If it wasn't for Trafalgar's quick thinking he might've missed the citizens. He was selfish, all he cared about in that moment was taking down the Beast nearly worth 6 Billion Beli. After he gave the order, Tra-guy told him to grab as much citizens as he could and spread the word. He wasn't a hero. Did that not make him good? He pushed those thoughts away to finish his conversation.

Lifting hat shade off his eyes he answered while grinning. "You and Zoro do agree on something eh?"

Sanji's cigarette immediately left his mouth, "I take back what I said! I take it all back!" Luffy could only laugh at Sanji's display of disdain for Zoro.

Luffy decided he would let Sanji get some rest. He stood up. "Sanji, I'm thinking of going to Cake Island again." Luffy states evenly as if he said that everyday of his life. This broke the chef out of his self ranting hate on moss head.

"Luffy man, why would-" a raised hand silenced him.

"I made a promise to Katakuri that I would return and face Big Mom. I figured she would be my real first test to returning to defeat Kaido. So why not go and free her!" Luffy exclaimed excitedly making Sanji's heart race.

"Pudding.." touching his lips he could remember the sweet smell of cake and honey as she kissed him. It was probably the most passionate one he shared in his life. She tried to erase it from his mind but she should know better if something like that happens to him it will NEVER be forgotten. He tried to reason with himself why she would erase that part of his memory. He assumed she did so he could continue his adventure without feeling guilty about leaving her on the island. But he already did, he wished to rescue her the next day if he could. It was truly up to Luffy, he hoped it would happen sooner then later but they had time.

"Oooii Sanji!" Luffy said waving a hand in front of Sanji's face. Sanji's dream bubble burst and his heart eyes disappeared.

"Huh? What?" Sanji looked like he just got shot with a cannon, blood slowly dripping from nose.

"Jeez I better not say her name again. Anyway it's a deal ya?" Luffy extended his hand to shake. Sanji looked excitingly towards Luffy then back to his hand. He trusted the word of his captain.

"Okay Captain. I'm in." Sanji shook his captains hand sealing the deal.

The monkey in Sanji's head was doing backflips constantly almost causing him to dizzy. He would get to fulfill his promise to Pudding and return to her. The last time he seen her she had hope that he would remember to come for her. That his love for her would make him remember. Could it be? Love? He couldn't wait to find out. It was all thanks to the idiot captain. They would need to chart a course back to Totto Land. They would need to tell their navigator. Then it hit him like a ton of bricks. He knew he was going to regret this later.

Just as Luffy cracked the door open to exit Sanji stopped him. "Oi shitty captain."

"What's up shitty chef?" Luffy said sporting his usual grin.

"Shut up my cookings A1 dumbass! Anyway listen up..." there was hesitancy to his words. "If were going to Totto Land sooner than later you need to let Nami know." Sanji finished not directly looking at Luffy.

Luffy just stood there confused as hell. Before he just said "oh yeah got it! See ya!"

Chopper heard Sanji's comment assuming he only thought Luffy was there. He silently chuckled to himself about him trying to help out their captain.

"Oi Luffy!"

"Dammit What is it? Spit it out?!"

Sanji gulped before answering. He was regretting this. "Nami looks nice today." The chef spoke in an unusual tone. Almost as if he didn't mean it, it was a sarcastic tone. Not like his usual perverted tone when he was complimenting the ladies of the sunny. It was lighter almost as if he was informing Luffy to something.

Getting the hint, Luffy nodded excitedly before exciting the room closing the door leaving Sanji alone.

"What the hell did I do?" Sanji half laughed half asked himself. He would love to be a fly on that wall. Luffy acting completely clueless and Nami showing him a thing or two. He was happy for those two. Though they didn't know it others outside the crew that saw their behavior towards each other assumed they were already together. Wasn't it only natural? He remembered his conversation with moss head right after the fiasco at Alabasta. No one took it harder when Vivi left than those two. Naturally they confided in each other one night the two older men saw the younger pair sitting on the head of Ol' Merry. Luffy singing one of his goofy songs he learned from his hometown to make Nami laugh. Neither one of them heard her laugh for days after Vivi left, but there Luffy was just being himself and Nami right alongside him. The words he and Zoro spoke about the scene still rang in his head.

"Do you think it'll ever happen?" Mosshead asked with a curious look towards the young pair.

He remembered wanting nothing more than to say what he usually did that'd he'd kill that shitty captain and to keep his hands off Nami-swan! This one time was different as they listened to Luffy try and teach Nami the words to his songs back from Foosha village. Her smile gleaming even more so than Luffy's. Sanji lit a cigarette taking a long drag from it before answering.

"If he becomes the pirate king, yeah it damn well might." The cigarette already on the ground as he finished it quicker than any past one.

Smiling at the memory Sanji sat up and lit another cigarette. "Since the beginning huh guys?"

Luffy closed the door to the infirmary. Sanji wasn't lying. The captain always had a certain attraction his navigator. Always wanting to grab her waist and keep her protected. He had yet to fully understand why that was. She did always look good and he would tell her, but for now it would have to wait he had a doctor eager to know what was on his mind.

"Luffy just so you know it's okay, you know I approve." Chopper sang happily his cheeks lighting up.

The captain shifted his hands to behind his head as he started to walk nonchalantly. " I don't know what your talking about Chopper."

"Surrreee you don't Luffy." Chopper teased. Luffy popped one eye open to see the smug expression on the reindeer's face. "Where's Luffy? Luffy? Luffy!" Chopper mimicked as he walked down the hall with Luffy. Chopper couldn't hold it in and was laughing hunching over on the floor to stop.

The man in the red charigan just grimaced slightly not appreciating the imitation.

"Luffy's here! Really Luffy's here? LUFFYYY!" Chopper ran towards Luffy's leg hugging it dramatically before falling onto his back in tears laughing at the captains shame behavior. Luffy couldn't help but chuckle after awhile. It was good to see chopper hadn't lost his innocent nature, he truly was the best of them all.

"That was a good one Chopper!" Luffy finally couldn't help but hunch over as well. After all the death Chopper encountered and failed injuries he could not heal, the doctor never gave up hope. Always pushing, striving, to be the best at what he knows. Choppers thirst for knowledge was enviable to Luffy. He wanted to be as well versed as Chopper was in his field at fighting.

"I admire you, you know that Chopper." Luffy exclaimed causing the reindeer to break out in a self hug shuffle.

"Ah Luffy your such an idiot you don't have to say that." Chopper said dancing happily. It brought joy to Luffy that he could be of help to keep his friend's spirits up. At times like this in war it never changes.

As the two reached the main hallway they ran into Zoro.

"What's up Zoro?!" The pair yelled nearly knocking the swordsman off his balance.

"WHAT THE HELL IDIOTS! INDOOR VOICES!" Zoro screaming causing Luffy and Chopper to lose it.

"YOUR THE ONE SHOUTING ZORO YOU DORK!" Luffy yelled even louder. "Yeah you dork!" Chopper added getting in Zoro's face.

"OH YEAH! WELL HOW ABOUT I-" Zoro was cut off by yelling down the hall way.

"SHUT UP MOSSHEAD SOME OF US ARE TRYING TO SLEEP!" Sanji wailed from inside the infirmary.

Zoro deadpanned at the door. His attention no longer on Luffy and Chopper. With an all to serious attitude about Zoro spoke "Chopper prepare a wheelchair, we'll say the Blackfoot had to be amputated."

"WWWHHHAAAAA!" Luffy Chopper and Sanji cried nearly rocking the ship. "I'll be right back." Zoro continued heading towards the infirmary.

Chopper intervened. "Luffy should we stop him?"

Luffy just put his hands behind his head giving his signature grin. "He'll be fine, Zoro really is worried shishishi."

"Shut up idiot rubber captain! Or your next!" Zoro yelled closing the infirmary door. You could hear furniture and insults being hurled even from where Luffy and Chopper stood.

"Nothing really gets to you does it?" Chopper half smiled content to head towards the outer deck. Before they could turn their backs to the infirmary Chopper noticed Luffy was sweat dropping like crazy. His captain look like he got a bucket a cold water on him and was having a seizure.

Luffy..? You alright?" Chopper asked curiosity overcoming the reindeer.

"Get ready." Luffy simply stated and left it that. Before chopper could debate any further what Luffy was so spooked about he felt a cold shiver run through his spine. Turning around he came face to face with a very angry Nami.

"N-Nami so you heard-" Luffy began before being knocked upside the head.

"I heard every word and you guys were too loud! How many times have I said inside voices?" Nami questioning bringing her hands to her hips.

Luffy got up to one knee very slowly careful if he was to get hit again it might be a K.O. "I-I'm sorry."

Nami was about to say something when she heard loud giggling coming from behind the door. Both Zoro and Sanji were crying silent tears trying to hold in laughter. Their captain was getting an earful and paying for their sins. They were so close to bursting out with laughter, all they had to do was hold it in a little longer.

The orange haired navigator trotting silently over towards the infirmary not bothering to knock before entering.

"Thought you guys were scott free huh?"

" Oi Nami-Swan-"

"Oi Witch-"

Luffy and Chopper flinched as he heard the cracks of his two friends skulls.

"Luffy... I think she killed them." Chopper whispered after their quiet laughter turned to ear deafening silence. Nami closed the door returning her attention to the captain and Chopper.

"Nami I'm sorry." Luffy simply said standing to slightly tower over her frame.

"Yeah, yeah I heard you the first time Luffy." Nami slightly huffed still lingering near. What now? He wasn't sure not until Nami was starting to head back the way she came.

Zoro and Sanji, though unrecognizable leaned up against the door, with Zoro holding Sanji at a ridiculous angle. The two brothers arguing to shut each other up, desperate to hear how the exchange between the captain and navigator would go down. So far Luffy was blowing it?

Chopper noticing the shift in the room between the two. The air became thick with just these two in a cramped hallway. This was not the ideal situation Chopper wanted to be in. On Whole Cake Island the two were inseparable, a true partner in crime duo. With Nami's genius ingenuity and equally impressive bravery she saved Luffy from certain death. Chopper noticed the difference in Luffy's outward attitude towards her. In the past it was always obvious he needed Nami. She was the navigator naturally that's how it worked right? Just like he needed all of them. During Zou he still could tell something was up didn't understand it fully, not until they reunited to form an alliance with Capone Bege. Something was different. It was like Luffy knew he needed her now or he was starting to understand his place in the world and he wouldn't mind if Nami's place was next to his. Chopper knew both needed to be careful. It was a time of war but even knew it was only a matter time even if they did find solace in each other during all this.

The cotton candy loving doctor saw Nami turn on her heel without Luffy saying much of anything. He vowed he wouldn't intervene but-

"Oi Nami" Luffy's voice rang out catching her wrist only to gain her attention back before gently letting her go. He could see she turned back with to him genuine intrigue. He needed to play his cards right.

Zoro and Sanji were now dead silent, now using plastic cups to try and hear anything from the other side of the door. Both anxiously gulping awaiting their captains next move. Their minds both sharing the same thought. 'Don't screw this up idiot.'

Chopper was now sweat dropping wondering what Luffy was going to ask. Only a minute passed when Nami entered the hallway but with these two like this it felt like he was stuck in an eternal time loop where each moment was a lifetime.

"What is it Luffy?" Nami asked a questioning slightly anxious look to her features.

The ship felt as it stopped moving. Luffy remembered Sanji's words but his gut told him not here, not now. That wasn't right. He really did need her help this time.

"Nami I-" Luffy paused thinking of his next words. "I could really use your help.. I need a chart to Totto Land." Luffy gave his smile to know it was a serious request.

All the air of tension seemed to evaporate in an instant. Sanji and Zoro sank to the floor silently thanking the heavens their captain for actually considering his words for a change; sign of progress.

Chopper breathing a sign of relief as Nami gave one of her smiles back. "Oh of course! I'll let you know when I have a minute."

"I appreciate it Nami." Luffy grinned taking a glance at his navigator. Her hair was orange like the Pikans she grew on the ship. 'I bet she smells like that too'

Luffy mentally slapped himself for thinking like that. He couldn't help it as of late, everything in his soul told him to gravitate towards her. It was still something he had yet to understand.

"Don't mention it captain." She winked before disappearing the way she came. Luffy was still frozen in his spot before finally regaining his composure.

"Nice one Luffy!" Chopper exclaimed giving him a thumbs up. Luffy just sighed and leaned against the wall. "Luffy.." Chopper was serious.

"We need to talk somewhere else." Chopper said nodding towards the infirmary.

"Sure" Luffy answered the reindeer. The two walked into the kitchen making sure they got a few moments alone.

"What is it Chopper?" The rubber man asked picking his feet placing them on top of one another on the table.

Leaning back Luffy began to open his ears to what Chopper was about to say.

"Luffy... I didn't want to say this in front of everyone else but.. when I did my first examination on Sanji's injury it was obvious to me he won't ever fight again. At least against admiral level opponents." Chopper evenly said nearly causing the young captain to fall out his chair.

Luffy now devotes his attention to all of Chopper as the reindeer continued his explanation, "It's fine Luffy he can walk, run, fly, but fighting like he once did is out of the question. I don't question Sanji's toughness but if the bone never recovers properly it doesn't matter. Do you understand Luffy?"

The youngest yonko debates with himself facing the ceiling. How did it get this fucked up so fast. Would he still be able to keep his promise to Sanji. Of course he had to!

"Chopper you heard, we have to get Pudding from Big Mom! Sanji has to do it, he vowed he would return for her." Luffy said trying to contain his excitement. It was an adventure he was a looking forward to.

Chopper gave his captain a solemn look. "I know, I heard. I mean.. it's possible but you have to take explain to him the repercussions of his actions if he truly is intent on saving Ms. Pudding." Chopper finished.

"Okay I'll let him know, not yet. He needs to recover from his leg injury first then, after I find out from Nami how long it will take to reach Cake Island and the best route to get back to Big Mom's castle." Luffy couldn't afford to feel sympathetic for Sanji's condition. Sanji would be disappointed knowing he would only have one more top level fight in him, but the rubber man knew if it meant Sanji freeing Pudding to make her happy he would gladly accept the circumstance.

"Thanks for listening Luffy. Were all going to be there this time so we'll help Sanji win her back!" Chopper exclaimed

"Hell yeah we will!" The two high five before separating for the evening. It wasn't late but it wasn't early neither. Before he forgot Luffy swiped a bottle of Sake from Sanji's cabinet for Zoro.

Luffy was now in the heart of the ship currently looking for his ship wright. The ship mechanic never left his workshop some days. Usually if he was upset or just bored. Franky was such a positive guy, Luffy could tell if he was in a bad mood easily. If he wasn't he would usually brag happily about his gadgets and yell Super! Which always brought a laugh to the captains face. Tracking down the ship wright proved to be successful.

"Franky! What's up?" Luffy waved to the ship wright from the entrance to the hull.

"Luffy what's good my man?" The half man half cyborg SUPER fist bumped the captain.

"Woah cool! What is all this?!" The rubber man's eyes gleamed causing Franky to put on his shades.

"Oh This! Franky said grabbing the nearest gadget. "Is a nuclear device capable of leveling an island if we aren't careful." If it were anyone else they would be complaining about there being a bomb aboard the ship but Luffy just continues to look in awe. Franky gave a thumbs up. "But check this out this is the best part, the bomb can only be activated by having both of us touch it at the same time and it has to be active via remote by yours truly. I figured this would Kaido a piece of his own medicine next time we face him." Franky beamed.

"What do you think huh captain?" Luffy was in awe of the weapon Franky had created. He wondered if it could really put a dent in Kaido's defense.

"It's great Franky but.." his eyes shade as he began to speak. " it will never work against Kaido. I've seen what he is, and to be honest I'm not sure how we can beat him. Even if all 11 supernovas fought him at once it would still be a toss up. His true strength lies in his stamina, it's nearly limitless and when his stamina is up he's an unstoppable force.." Franky could see the young captain struggling for words as he felt Franky's hand on his shoulder.

"Thanks Luffy bro for being honest. I had a feeling it wouldn't really do much. I didn't see this Kaido guy up close but I'll tell you this. WE WILL beat him captain. It might take awhile and as you know there are no shortcuts but we'll figure this thing out, we always do brother!" The two fistbumped again before Franky turned around and got back to work. "I'll try and make this thing as powerful as I can, we'll test one out soon ya?" The cyborg joyful asked.

"Can't wait!" The raven haired captain smiled back. In Luffy's mind if there was a somewhat father figure to the group it would undoubtedly be Franky. He was always looking out for everyone constantly almost as if he never had humanly cyborg needs. If there was someone to protect their home he would bank all his money on Franky. When he was plugged into the Sunny, it truly could transform into a weapon of mass destruction.

"You can test that bomb sooner then later Franky." Luffy exclaimed folding his hands behind his head. "We can use it against Big Mom when we encounter her next, I'll be fighting her before Kaido."

"Really?" The cyborg half asked in awe and amazement. "Well I'm glad you said something I can't freaking wait to get this puppy going!" Said Franky comical tears flowing from his eyes.

"You can't blow the island up until we get Pudding out then it's fair game!" Luffy couldn't contain his excitement at the prospect of blowing that damned island to hell. He would love to see Big Mom's face when all her food is gone and she starved. The young captain threw his left fist into his right hand. "And not until I defeat Big Mom and her crew!"

All Franky could do was smile at his always positive enthusiasm. "Glad to hear it boss." Turning back to his current work project, Luffy began to explore the workshop a little hoping to maybe pick up something useful. After a few minutes of searching he found nothing of use as a lot of the inventions were prototypes therefore not in use.

After a comfortable few minutes of letting Franky work Luffy spoke.

"Do you think I made the right decision? Y'know retreating from Wano? Franky stopped what he was doing to hear Luffys question before working again.

"Look I don't know if it was right or wrong. I'm not really one to say. It depends on what you do next I guess? So what now captain? How long before Kaido comes for us?

It was hard to say. "I'm positive he's comfortable in Wano. He didn't bat an eye when we retreated. He's probably preparing for Shanks and the Red Haired Pirates." Luffy spoke while remembering Red Haired Shanks the man who taught Luffy all about sacrifice. The man gave up an arm for him; talk about badass. The man stopped the War at Marineford without so much as raising a sword. This only angered Luffy, he needed to beat Kaido before anyone, even Shanks, by any means necessary.

"We should choose the next move carefully hopefully regroup with allies down the line before we enter Totto Land eh?" Franky said never taking his eyes away from his pet project.

"Yup that's the plan, regroup with Tra-guy and hopefully the others. Anyway I'll let you get back to it Franky!" The young captain waved leaving the cyborg to his work.

After visiting with Franky, Luffy sought out Usopp his trusty sniper. Something that Franky and Usopp shared was their private time. Both could lock themselves away for days only to work on an invention that never gets finished. It's just a mostly a past time. It keeps one sane during times of war. Some people are talkers, some are thinkers, the young captain was attempting to find a balance between the two. Luffy went back outside to the upper deck looking around. Deciding to check the gardens he found none other than Nico Robin and Usopp who were conversing while planting in their respective gardens. It was common place for everyone to plant their own but none were more adamant about their certain spices and herbs from their respective homelands than these two. They made sure whenever they ate Sanji's delicious dishes it was with their natural homemade herbs and spices making them feel like they never left home. Luffy was a bit envious but why would meat need extra spice and herbs, meat is perfect, meat was meat.. Luffy trailed off in his head while his stomach growled. 'Damn need to eat soon.'

Robin and Usopp greeted the young captain.

"Oi guys!"

They both smiled warmly welcoming the captain in their conversation.

"Luffy I could use your help." Robin smiled while gesturing Luffy to dig a small hole while he placing a few red beats into the ground before handing him a small green can used for pouring water onto the plants. "Okay that's it thank you Luffy."

"No problem Robin, but did you really need my help?" Luffy asked scratching the back of his head confused.

Robin just chuckled. "No I have plenty of helping hands."

"Oh how nice." Luffy and Usopp both sweat dropped towards the raven haired woman.

"How did it feel to plant captain?" The former demon child asked curious for an honest answer. With Luffy you'd always get one. Usopp was curious as well.

"It felt..nice..relaxing. I felt a certain..peace." Hearing a satisfactory answer Robin nodded. "How I stayed so calm throughout the years on the run or even in a stressful situation now, I always plant, whatever was on my mind was one it will be off it by the completion of this simple task. It's really quite remarkable. So Luffy if you ever feel upset this will provide peace of mind, if only for awhile." She emphasized the last part.

Luffy was soaking in the words Robin had told him. She was absolutely right. That simple task of farming even a few plants was quite nice. It was so easy anyone could do it and it was..relaxing. He might have to get his own garden.. if only gardens grew meat.

"Thanks a bunch Robin!" Luffy said while sheepishly rubbing the back of his head. It was relaxing almost too relaxing. It was nice to see Usopp and Robin bond over such a simple endeavor. What really piqued his interest was why when he was near Robin he didn't feel the same as it was with Nami. It wasn't like he likes any one more than the other. Well not necessarily, just one feeling was different to the other;incomparable by nature.

Robin had almost a motherly figure to the crew. When it came down to it the crew would all look up to her for advice. He had to admit he needed a lot of people on his crew but without Robin his journey would be pointless. In order to find out Ratfael's location they needed to find the four red markers intersection point to find the One Piece. Her biggest and most vital role had yet to come he couldn't wait for them to solve the mystery of the world.

Robin stood up dusting herself off.

"Well you two have fun, I'm going to go get cleaned up." Robin smiled warmly before heading inside.

"Going to join Franky huh?" Usopp snickered into his hand clutching at his sides. Luffy imitated Franky with his "Super!" Before rolling over laughing along with Usopp who was now in tears.

"Oh Luffy?" Robin called.

"Huh?" Luffy sat upright looking at Robin who was halfway in the door.

"Don't be late." She said with a certain seriousness in her voice that made the two men immediately stop goofing off.

"What uh- What was that all about?" Usopp started.

Luffy his eyes under his hat. "N-Nothing."

Usopp was not convinced he just crossed his arms. "Uh-huh. Alright so what was it you wanted to talk about? Just spit it out man something's bugging you?" Usopp didn't take his eyes off the plant he was currently tending to.

"Was retreating a mistake or not? I need to know where you stand on that?" Usopp stopping to consider what he was asked before continuing.

"I disagree with it personally. I can only speak for myself though, I was able to handle Kaido's main forces along with his third subordinate. I could've defeated him if we stayed longer but, I wasn't going to deny an order by the captain." Usopp finally stopped working contemplating what he'd said and his next words. "But I understand man you got to do what you got to do, don't worry about it we'll get em next time Luffy! I can't help it, I'm a selfish bastard just like my captain!" At this Luffy perked up hearing his sharpshooters words of encouragement.

"Yeah you gotta keep Kaido's bastards at bay so I can collect his head! First we take down Big Mom and Blackbeard's crew too soon so I'll need you to be ready." Luffy stated already knowing Usopp's answer.

"Those bastards won't stand a chance when I release my new Kenbunshoku Haki count on that!" Usopp exclaimed.

"Nope they won't." Luffy could see how much the warrior had grown. He had to give Usopp his props. Once his friend turned foe back into a friend before Water 7. He could've walked away and became a great pirate with another crew Luffy had no doubt about that. He chose to come back by his own accord and he couldn't have been more grateful. Once known for infamous falsehood and lies, his infamy now known for having the fourth highest bounty in the crew.

He studied his friend for a moment before contemplating what could possibly occupy his mind. The warrior wasn't using gardening as a stress factor he was clearly at ease. It was something else. Luffy thought back to Usopp's hometown Island.

"Hey Usopp mind if I ask you a personal question?" Luffy asked honestly earning. A shrug from Usopp. "Shoot Luffy."

"You talk in your sleep, sometimes so loud I can't sleep, sometimes you say a name. I think it's Kaya? Yeah that's it. Kaya." It took Usopp a few seconds to respond.

"Kaya.." Usopp spoke the name. It was the same way he heard Sanji speak Pudding's name. A far away whimsical look as if they see the person that's mentioned right in front of them as if they've never left.

"Luffy.." Usopp pauses before answering further. "She is.. my best friend..she's special. I love her." Usopp said it as Luffy said he loves meat. It was true Usopp would drop anything he was doing now for her without question. Unless his friends we're in a life threatening bind he would slightly consider it, but mostly the crew had each other. Kaya was alone and was more vulnerable than anyone he ever met, so fragile. He couldn't imagine if she ever tried to sail with him, he would let her do almost anything except that.

'Love.' A word the more Luffy thought about it the more it eludes him. He loves meat and his nakama that much he was sure of. But there was something he had to know for sure and Usopp was the perfect wingman. He proved that on their short lived run of luck on Gran Tesoro he would give him the answer he was looking for.

"How do you know you love her? I love meat and nakama?" Luffy somewhat played dumb to get Usopp to tell him his best opinionated guess on what he interprets as Love. A valuable thing Luffy learned in life is that somebody else's truth will never be your own. But there is a common baseline among humanity which allows us to find similar meaning among friendships and relationships.

"You know that's not the same Luffy.." Usopp sighed before continuing. "When this is all over and you become King, I- I'm going to spend the rest of my life by her side no matter where it is. That's what marriage is, when you can't see someone not being by your side for the rest of your life and until your reunited with them there will always be a hole that cannot be filled and you will feel it till the day you die."

Usopp looks out toward the direction of his homeland Syrup Island. 'Kaya, please wait for me.'

Luffy smirked as a knowing feeling came over him. "Thanks God Usopp, you really are a good wingman you know that."

"Yeah, Yeah thank me later right?" Ussop yawned stretching before standing up. "I'm gonna rest for awhile take it easy eh captain?" The long nosed man waved before disappearing into the ship.

Luffy looked up to the sky to see it was getting darker and the last remaining light was nearly gone. Brook appearing with Zoro and complaining about not being able to use the bathroom before the swordsman. The skeleton was currently berating the man as he continued to ignore.

"Shut it bag of bones you move to slow!" Zoro shouted fed up with the lecturing from the aging skeleton.

"HOW RUDE! I'll send you to hell swordsman!" Brook drew his cane sword immediately making Zoro grip his sword's hilt. "Try it chew toy!"

A dark aura surrounded skeleton.

"Consider this line forever crossed, Roronora Zoro!" Sensing the slight escalation on deck, Luffy stepped between the two holding a large bottle of Sake. The two forgetting their beef immediately wrestling for the bottle. Luffy couldn't help but laugh loudly at the display. After a moment Zoro won the war and uncorked the top with his teeth before he started chugging.

"Your not such a bad captain Luffy!" Zoro said burping loudly before patting him on the shoulder.

"Luffy-San" The skeleton inquires. You did well, we will become stronger like before the two years. I believe in us, till death do us part! Even though I'm already dead yohohoho!" Brook loudly laughs grabbing the Sake from Zoro who was concentrating on standing straight.

Luffy reflecting on his two friends in front of him. They both fought their asses off and he appreciated the hell out of them for it. Even if they let loose like this it was fine as long as they never lost sight of what they stood for. The young captain never partook in drinking too often. He simply didn't need it to have a good time.

A familiar presence from a far made him look past the duo in front of him. Nami making her way down the steps heading for the Library. Brook notices they lost their captain's attention.

"Well it seems late I'll go to the crow's nest." Brook began to make his way up.

"Brook hold up I'm coming up in a few." Zoro clathrew the bottle to the skeleton who caught it swiftly chugging before continuing the climb to nest.

"So shit cook let me in on this plan about returning to Big Mom's territory. That true?" Zoro asked crossing his arms.

Luffy nodded. "It's not that I disagree about that but he's in no condition to fight, If ever." The swordsman added looking towards the sky. "This could be his last adventure are the both of you willing to come to terms with that?"

"To be honest no. But if he wants to live a peaceful life I can't object to that either. Your my crew, my friends, not my subordinates. We all don't have the same dreams so it's only natural we all won't follow the same path, but we'll all be connected till the day we die." Luffy spoke his words to the former bounty hunter who could only nod in agreement.

"Good to see your still you, don't ever lose it. Now get going captain." Zoro said with a smirk waving as he disappeared up the ladder into the darkness. Luffy could still hear their voices.

"Yohohoho I could drink so much I could die! Wait! What? Oh no, I'm already dead! Yohoho-" Brook was interrupted by Zoro knocking the skeleton into the wall with the hilt of his sword.

"Oh shut up! Just sing some damn songs already!" The swordsman screamed.

"HOW RUDE!"

Luffy could only laugh at the duos antics. Shaking his head he realized how late it had already gotten. Darkness now covered the sky. One crew member left, and here he was outside making a big deal of it. Maybe he should play it stupid and say he forgot and fell asleep. No, never that, what the hell was wrong with him. Gaining resolve he made his way slowly but surely to the library. With each step he took he could feel his heart thump against his chest it felt as if he was entering a second gear on its own. Less than a minute later he was standing below the hatch staring up at it debating to go in. A few moments later he began to ascend slowly but surely. He paused before releasing a series of light knocks.

There was a silence. Maybe she fell asleep. Before he could make a move he heard her voice offer a "Come in" Luffy slowly lifted the hatch climbing in shutting it lightly behind him.

"Luffy hey perfect timing, I just finished the chart, come see it." Luffy got closer so he could see Nami clearly. She looked a little tired from constantly working, her hair slightly wet. She smelled sweet like she just bathed. Shaking the thoughts out of his head he quickly looked over to map detailing Totto Land.

Nami broke it down so her captain could understand. She'd drawn in a red pen the first route they used to enter Whole Cake Island. She explained that that route was obviously a trap into the forest and they didn't want to have to deal with that again. There best chance was to bypass Germa Kingdom to the north of the island and head directly the west towards the castle. It would add a week to the trip but it was well worth it. He could see the detail she went to analyze the safest way to get there. The raven haired boy couldn't take his eyes off the orange haired girl as she was busy explaining away.

"I'm sure this will work, so you have nothing to worry about Captain." Nami said smiling slightly.

"Yeah I trust you completely Nami, your the navigator, you lead we follow." Luffy didn't know where those words came

from.

Those words pleased Nami to hear. Luffy always had complete faith in her as she had in him.

"Hey Luffy there's something else I want to show you." Nami spoke rolling up the map before placing it in a large drawer. The navigator went up to the top shelf pulling out a large map, she began to unravel it slowly. She gestured for him to approach the desk asking him to hold the edges of the map grabbing his hands, showing them where to go. The instant contact made both them feel a pulse of electricity flow through their bodies.

Nami couldn't help glancing over at Luffy as he took in her treasure. His eyes raking over every section of the map with a curious intrigue. The original map she was working on since they started their journey. He could see all the places they've been. Foosha Village, Cocoyoshi Village, Alabasta, Thriller Bark, Water 7, Enies Lobby, Fishman Island, Punk Hazard, Zou, Gran Tesoro, finally Wano.

Luffy was speechless. "Nami.. this is amazing." Luffy examining the map one more time noticing a peculiar place in the center.

Nami was happy to be showing Luffy one of her most prized possessions it was something very near to her heart. It was a map that had been worked on for nearly 4 years and was finally getting near its completion. Glancing over she could see the curious look Luffy was paying attention to the center of the map.

"Nami, what's this place?" Luffy asked with such curiosity it nearly made her melt.

"This here!" She pointed to the map excitedly "is the capitol city. It's where the Five Elders who control the World Government live." Luffy thought it would be nice to take those guys down and over throw their corruption.

"And here!?" Luffy asked pointing to a not so distant blank spot. It's space unoccupied. Nami smirked before answering. "I know the last island of Ratfael is somewhere there or it could be he-" Nami froze when she noticed her hand crawled on top of Luffy's and she hadn't dared move it away. The electricity they felt when they grazed hands was back but tenfold.

Both of them gave a quick glance to the other and an even quicker apology. Before Luffy rubbed the back of head sheepishly. "Thanks again Nami, for showing me, it was great." He flashed that smile that made Nami want to run into his arms again and be comforted.

When he was away in Dressrosa all she could do was worry about his safety. She was only able to see a glimpse of the destructive power of a warlord. Remembering the ease in which Doflamingo was able to defeat Sanji and Law. Remembering the joy she felt hearing his voice break through the transponder snail!

"Oi! Sanji it's me!"

"Luffy!" Nami smiled warmly before placing Momonosuki in her lap. All she needed was to hear his voice. To know he was out there—safe.

When she found out he and the others were in Zou she was relieved. It had only been 11 days but to her it felt like years. She couldn't wait for Luffy to return to her. Every time she saw him, she knew it would be okay. He worked tirelessly to save his friends and it was the thing she loved most about him. Luffy was really the only true good person she'd ever known.

Whole Cake Island was something completely different then she anticipated.

Luffy and her dove into a situation headfirst in which they were extremely out of their depth. They just wanted their friend back. Nami remembered the painful memories of Luffy suffering throughout the ordeal the most. It made her realize no matter how much physical beatings either of them took their spirits would never break. In order to save her life Luffy was willing to sacrifice his arms not willing to let her die. It truly bored on extreme bravery and idiocy but she couldn't be more thankful for Luffy being him. It all came full circle when they came face to face with Capone Bege and his crew. Being by Luffy's side while he argued with Bege about taking down Big Mom. It was a microcosm of their relationship. Luffy would always protect and provide, while Nami would nurture and educate.

Nami began to seal the large map in plastic again before rolling it back and reaching for the top shelf. She couldn't quite reach. Noticing quickly Luffy stretches his arm to gently place the map back In it's designated place.

"Thanks" Nami offers simply only to be waved off.

"Ah not a problem, why do you keep it where you can't reach shishi silly navigator." Luffy laughs lightly clutching his sides in mock laughter.

A vein appearing on the Mikan loving navigator's face. "I do it too keep it away from my idiot captain." Luffy felt a strike come down as his head sending his face towards the floor.

"Ow! Hey! I did not deserve that!" The two soon broke out into chuckles at their antics. It wasn't even a question anymore. The captain didn't even bother to ask why he was hit anymore. The best answer he was going to get was a knockout or a "just going with the flow." Answer. He didn't mind, he actually liked it. If there was one thing he appreciated greatly, it was that she kept him grounded in reality literally. Never afraid to give him orders, or call him out on his BS when he's reckless. He needed that in his life.

Nami wasn't afraid of anything really. Except ghosts. Luffy began to chuckle causing Nami to wonder what he was thinking.

"What's so funny Luffy?" Nami inquired crossing her arms. Sometimes Luffy was like reading a book in gibberish; impossible to comprehend.

"I don't understand you Nami.. you can go up against really strong opponents and navigate us through the new world yet your still scared of ghosts shishishi scaredy cat." Luffy couldn't help it breaking out into laughter.

Two veins took the place as the last one. "Oh so you want another huh?!" Nami said raising her fist. Just as she was about to strike a loud rumble from the captains stomach silenced both her anger and his laughter.

Nami suddenly was the one bursting out into laughter. As Luffy's stomach began to grumble even louder causing him to slightly become embarrassed. 'Damn come on stomach not now!' Luffy comically punching his stomach to calm it down.

"Are you hungry?" Nami asked curiously as she was finishing wiping her tears of laughter from her cheeks. She thought it was kind of cute when he was embarrassed.

Reaching for a paper bag she moved from the shelf taking a seat on the large couch that nearly encompassed the room.

Gesturing for him to come take a seat next to her. He did so. Reaching into the paper bag she pulled out one of her cherished orange fruits that she loved so much.

"Just this once alright?" She asked sternly while peeling away at the Mikan, awaiting his response.

"Just this once." Luffy repeated. Satisfied she handed him the peeled orange. Happily he began to pick off the pieces enjoying it slowly. The orange was itself was sweet. Not so much the peel, remembering when he tried to eat it like an apple, tossing the fruit aside wasting it . Nami didn't let him forget that he wasted it, beating him then banning him from eating them. He supposed she really was like her prized Mikan's. On the outside the peel itself is just a protective layer, bitter to the outside world, but soft and sweet on inside. Once peeled though the fruit became one of the most delicious deserts he'd ever had, understanding exactly why Nami had such a fondness for these oranges. She was just like them. Once you get past the outer layer that was Nami, you would see her true self. A sweet caring person who would steal all the money in the world then gladly spend it to buy a friend's freedom.

Splitting her remaining orange in half she held out the other half for captain to take.

"Oi Thanks Nami!" Luffy happily took the orange grazing her hand. She could feel it again. The touches they share shook her to her core.

After Luffy finished he leaned his head back resting on the couch stretching his arms out dealing behind the couch. They were a comfortable distance away.

Luffy spoke a more serious tone to his voice. "Nami?"

"Hm?" She answered him lost in her own thoughts looking at him with her brown orbs. His breath hitched slightly.

"Did I- make the right call in Wano? To evacuate I mean? I don't want you guys to think any less of me for retreating I- " Nami silenced with her finger on his lips.

"Luffy.. you know this crew will follow you to the end. I hope you know it doesn't matter to me if we win or not." Nami looked to Luffy for a reaction expecting him to be shocked there was none. "I just want us to all be safe and I know you'll do your best to protect our family, that's all I can ask Captain."

It all made sense to him now. His crew didn't think any less of him for his fighting abilities. Sure they would expect to win. Only losers go into battles expecting to lose. Pretty simple logic, so far the Straw Hats were far from losers, they were big winners. The odds were not in their favor this time and soon it would change. Glancing over quickly at the girl to his side he couldn't help but smile. 'This feels nice. She tells me what I need to hear, by my side.'

Luffy's hat covers his eyes once again, his expression unreadable. It was a few moments before he perks up again.

"Nami.." The way he said her voice reminds him of how Sanji and Usopp sounded when they spoke of their respective partners.

Nami gasped softly at the tone of his voice. It was almost a tone often yearning. She continued to study the captain waiting for his expression to reappear and continue what he wanted to say.

The raven haired captain gave a slight smile. "I never thanked you for saving my life. Twice." He glanced over to the navigator to see was intently watching his every move her expression neutral so he went on. "Without you I wouldn't have made it to the tea party and battled Katakuri, I would've died out there. So I'm grateful Nami, to have you by my side." Luffy's small smile became his signature one as Nami slowly melted into what he said.

"Luffy.." She said barley audible even to her. Nami's bangs covering her face, showing the same unreadable expression Luffy wore a second earlier. It was now the captain's turn to await what his navigator said. She matched his energy from before giving her own signature smile similar to his. The rare ones she only wore when he was near.

"I-I never said.. thank you for everything. All the times you came to save me. No matter how much stronger the opponents were than you, you always came back for me. Even back in Arlong Park where you barley knew me." Seeing that Luffy's full attention was on her she continued. "I used to pray to the heavens that a miracle would fall from the sky and rescue me." Nami said pausing to giggle while looking at Luffy's who wore a neutral expression but he was watching her intently "You freed me and my village Luffy, and now you've given me a family I've never dreamed of having. You've allowed me to live my own dreams freely." Nami quickly wrapped her arms around the raven haired captain.

"Luffy..Thank you." Was all he heard Nami muffle as he reciprocated the hug. One arm reaching her upper back and the other around her waist where he would grab her to signify that she was under his protection. The two tightened the hug letting all the memories they had together flow in the moment.

Nami pulled back but only slightly loosening her grip on Luffy.

Finally she looked up at her captain to see him warmly gazing down at her.

"Nami.." Luffy began to slowly lower himself down slightly closer than before so they were only inches apart.

"Luffy..." Nami responded gripping his charigan so tightly her knuckles were turning white. The two were busy staring into the others eyes waiting for one another to make the first move. After a few moments, they both had the thought and crashed their lips to one another. No movement, just feeling one another lips on the others for the first time. Nami pulled back slowly her eyes equally wide as Luffy, there faces still near the vicinity of each other. Their breath entangled in a panting match as both tried to catch their breath.

Luffy spoke first with a smirk. "So that's what kisses feel like.. it felt good." He was still slightly shook.

Nami was equally flabbergasted, it was equivalent if not greater than what Luffy was feeling, one word crossing her mind 'fireworks.'

"That was my first time kissing someone." Nami confessed with a scarlet shade accompanying her cheeks.

"Same here. I'm glad I was your first shishishi." Luffy also confessed. There was a certain calm he brought to her nerves. It was her first time doing any of this yet she didn't feel nervous with Luffy. He put her mind at ease with his behavior to remind her they were doing this together. He would never take advantage of her. If anything he should watch out for her.

"Good. I'm glad I could be yours too Luffy." Nami said smiling still not releasing his red charigan from her grip. "Luffy.."

"Hm?" Luffy answered glancing down at her again. Her face was a shade of pink.

"Can we um.. do it again." Nami hesitantly asked not quite looking at him. Luffy blinked a couple times registering that Nami did want to kiss him again.

"Sure Nami" Luffy smiled. The truth was he was just as ecstatic if not more about the second than the first one.

The pair closed the distance once again. This time the couple were a little more fierce moving their lips this time. Each more kiss more raw than the last. Nami finally released Luffy's shirt after the fear of him running off went away. She slowly placed her left arm around his neck while the other snaked to his chest where his heart rest.

The orange haired navigator could immediately feel the pounding Luffy's heart was raging against his chest showing how he was just as nervous and anxious as her. Knowing this Nami began to lean back pulling Luffy along with her so he was laying on top of her not breaking their kiss for an instant. It was the first time she allowed a man to be on top of her, much less like this. She felt safer than she ever had like this. That no matter what happened Luffy would be there with her. 'By his side' After a few more minutes the two finally broke apart for air finally opening their eyes to view one another after their session.

Both of them were breathing heavily. Nami looked up to see the savior she cared so much about. She finally had him like this. The navigator couldn't recall how many times she wanted do this. Nor for how long but it was for some time. Nami couldn't have been happier at that moment.

The captain was on cloud nine. He finally had Nami, his navigator who everyone tried to steal away from him. She belonged to him now he knew that, but he was also hers without question. He couldn't recall any woman coming across his mind like his beautiful Navigator.

He could only stare in awe, mouth slightly agape as he witnessed Nami beneath him opening herself to him like she had no one else;he felt blessed.

Luffy was still trying to catch his breath. "Nami.. I need you.. by my side. I-" He was trying to find the right words, the way Nami was looking at him he felt he might lose it. "I care about you, so much."

Nami places her hands at the side of his face pulling him slightly closer. She bit her bottom lip making sure he caught that. "Show me captain." She challenged wanting him to understand his actions right now were louder than words.

Without hesitation the two crashed their lips together for the third time. This time was different from the rest. It had a certain fire behind it. Nami surprised him by placing her tongue at his lips before their tongues shifted the two tasting each other's mouths. The room began to grow warm.

Nami let out a half whimper moan causing Luffy to groan in response. They were both starting to lose themselves in this. If they didn't stop soon..

"Mm..Luffy.." Nami broke away catching his attention. "I care about you too, so much." The confession caught Luffy off guard and Nami used it to her advantage flipping Luffy onto his back.

Nami moaned as she settled on his exposed abdomen. She had to admit her guilty pleasure was seeing him without a shirt on. The way his body changed after every battle she swore he got more good looking each time, the scar included.

She could feel her exposed legs stir a reaction in Luffy. She was glad she wore her short blue shorts and her pink tank top one of her favorite combos. She could feel Luffy sit up causing her to catch herself resting her hands on his chest still straddling him. Luffy could feel his shorts grow tight, apparently Nami felt it too because she let out a slight squeak as she shifted on him.

Luffy wordlessly attacked the left side of her face. Softly trailing kisses along her cheek, to her ear, down along her neck roughly sucking on the skin for a split second before gently placing a kiss there. He could feel Nami's grip on his hair tighten and her breathing became more erratic as she let out soft moans.

"Luffy please.. don't stop." She begged opening her neck he continued his assault down to her collarbone leaving light kisses there as well causing an even louder moan from the orange haired woman. He didn't dare go any further down her chest no matter if he was tempted too, it wasn't worth his life and he would be in debt for the rest of his life. Nami could see the focus on her captains features as if he was wrestling with himself about what to do next.

Nami rolling her eyes while giggling taking Luffy's face between her hands. A quizzical look bestowing the captain's face. "Just this once." She devislishy smirked causing the captain to become even more lost. Rolling her eyes again she guided his face towards her chest.

The young woman let out a soft yelp at the contact as Luffy's face was in one of her most sensitive places. Almost as if on cue Luffy brought his hands up to meet his face only to hesitate for what she could only assume meant he was waiting for her permission. Slowly placing her hands to his she began moving them to rest atop her breasts. She could hear Luffy's muffled groans of pleasure as Nami felt him grind his hips towards her waist. She let out loud moan feeling his hardness against her. The fact she could make someone who was not necessarily all that interested in sex completely turned on felt like a win for her. The navigator let out another loud moan as Luffy began to give her light suckles and kisses on her chest.

"Only you Luffy..Only you can see me like this Luffy." Nami spoke while in bliss causing Luffy to grunt and roll his hips again causing his navigator to squirm in pleasure. She could feel herself getting slick down there. Knowing she they had to stop eventually she put a hand to Luffy's chest making him immediately withdraw.

Hoping he didn't do anything wrong, Luffy awaited till Nami spoke. She was still breathing heavy after the kissing assault. Slowly she got off him leaning back so she could sit upright on the couch. After recollecting himself Luffy followed suit. After a what felt like a few minutes of silence.

"Luffy.." Luffy turned towards the voice calling him. Before he could register. Nami was dragging him by his collar again so that they were facing each other on their sides.

Wordlessly the two shared another passionate kiss knowing they couldn't help it. Everything burning in their souls screamed it was right but pirate etiquette screamed it was wrong; if there was even such a thing.

"Luffy.. you care so much." Nami said putting on her best smile for her captain. Her arms snaked around his neck. "I'm glad y'know that I have you like this."

Luffy gave her forehead a quick kiss before before contently resting his chin on top of her head.

The rubber captain never felt more content than now. He loved his nakama, he loved her. He had to right?

"Whenever you need me, I'll be there. I promise you Nami." Luffy said solemnly causing Nami to smile as well.

"I'll hold you too that." Nami said with a soft sigh. "But I'm asking you to protect all of us Luffy." She said a little sternly.

"Of course Nami." Luffy answered responding to Nami's smile with one of his own. With that the two embraced wrapping each other up in one another's arms.

The two were content to just lay there enjoying the aftermath bliss of their intense passionate encounter.

Nami glanced up to look at the young captain. He looked currently deep in thought maybe wondering the same things as her. The first time she supposed the first time she admitted to herself she loved him was when they reunited at Sabaody after being separated for two years. Even if Luffy never developed feelings for her like this she would still love him dearly. Now that she had him like this though she shoved those thoughts from her head.

Feeling Nami grip him tighter broke Luffy from his trance. He was too enthralled by his navigators beauty. The rubber man had to admit she was far beautiful than

any other woman he'd seen. His adventures took him to some remarkable places with extraordinary looking women; Even the Pirate Empress herself Boa Hancock. He had to admit she was beautiful, and he would always be in her debt for saving his life at Marineford. But deep down he knew it would never be the same as this.

At the end of the day she was like all the other empress, princesses, and maidens he's met along the way. They all never truly knew who he was. A extrovert by nature but a loner at heart. For the most part he's only had people shuffling in and out of his life never quite wanting to stay. But she was almost always by his side never wanting leaving it. He was truly grateful.

Before long Luffy reluctantly broke the embrace standing up stretching, the atmosphere finally cooling down. Nami got up as well she stumbled slightly tripping on her heel falling forward, right on cue Luffy held her up from falling pulling the navigator back to her feet.

"See I told you I'll always be there Shishi!" Luffy chuckled never letting go of Nami.

"Yeah yeah dumb luck." She playfully nipped Luffy on the chin with his fist as if on command he released her.

The duo slowly realized that sometimes this type of thing can enhance a relationship between two close friends and make them even closer without changing much. It all depended on circumstance. Some friendships were deeper and more bonded, having been tested through the fire. He wondered about the rest of his crew. How he met them, his relationships with them and how each one was uniquely different. To understand his new feelings for the navigators, he had to find out exactly how it was different from the others;intimacy aside.

Luffy has had his quarrels with just about everyone on the ship. Him and Zoro have been at odds before. In Alabasta, they've told so far as the swordsman started attacking the captain with his full strength and Luffy responded with his full strength as well. It would have turned into a battle for captaincy, if not for the intervention of Nami. Zoro had always kept a cool head since then and they were like true brothers now. Even still Zoro kept a certain amount of emotional distance towards everyone including the captain himself. Still Zoro was one the person he did not want to fight on the crew. The swordsman was head and shoulders above the rest of the crew in terms of sheer strength. If there came a time Zoro would fight Luffy with all his strength he actually feared he might lose. However the prospect of that was extremely unlikely, even if Zoro was put into Sanji's situation he couldn't imagine the swordsman handling it the same way. Zoro and him were truly different animals among the Straw hats. Each had a certain level of respect for one another as men to not have childish squabbles anymore. Both the captain and vice captain had a great commonality: either they were all in or all out on something. Hypothetically if they ever fought again it would be for leadership of the Straw hats. He wouldn't have it any other way even if Zoro won, he would go back to vice captain and claim captaincy was beneath him. Luffy was truly happy to have a brother in arms like Zoro on board.

Vinsmoke Sanji was from a top assassination organizations and happened to be one of the heirs to the Germa Kingdom. Luffy now knew the true origins his longtime chef. He supposed he never really knew his friend at all at one point on Whole Cake Island. After reaching his friend he expected Sanji to immediately come with them or at least give his friends the time of day to come up with a plan. Instead he was attacked which he took like a king. If he hadn't known Sanji since the beginning he would've brought him back bloodied and broken. But Luffy remembered his cook's situation was dire, no matter how emotional he was. The captain vowed to not to fight back nor back down. After he woke up from his beating it was all to clear now. Sanji really put all he had into the kick intending to greatly injure him. Still he had faith in his friend, he had faith in all his friends. He even so far as to tell Nami to stay out of it, when she tried to convince him to leave Sanji to his fate. There fight was not the same as his other crew mates. He could see the old Sanji started coming back but he still lied, so when he finally did punch his chef. Luffy was shock when the old Sanji came back in tears begging for his help. The captain more then gladly accepted his chance to help his broken friend. Luffy couldn't help feel slightly jealous when Nami, who once was ready to abandon their mission, now was reinvigorated, ready to get their friend back at any cost. He felt oddly relieved knowing the old Sanji was back with hearts in eyes. Looking on the situation with amusement he felt oddly relieved, yet the slightly jealous feeling remained, at that time it was a mystery feeling.

Luffy had fought against Usopp before the incident at Water 7, winning a costly battle. It was something he at first couldn't wrap his head around. Luffy was being called by Usopp so called "selfish" when he himself were going against his nakama for the sake of Merry. He supposed because of the sentimental value the marksman held for the going Merry. After all it was a gift from Kaya, his childhood friend, and who Usopp claimed he loved. Usopp was willing to give up everything even his nakama not defend the ship's honor. Kaya's last gift to him. It was honorable, but foolish or so that's what Luffy used to think. Once Usopp returned to his normal self and he joined the crew again he was included in Luffy and Chopper's reindeer games once again. The captain thought he finally understood it. The pain Usopp suffered from giving Merry up, he felt he was giving up on a part of his promise to Kaya. Luffy seemed his actions as admirable: If there was one thing he took away from the experience,it was that even if the whole world is against you, always stand for what you believe in and what you care about even if it means the world turns against you. It made sense to some degree, if what Usopp told him what was true and he did indeed love Kaya. Then he had no reason to hold a grudge and it actually ended up earning Usopp more points in the captain's log.

Robin was one of the most remarkable women he'd ever met. The least remarkable thing about her was she was the owner of the Hana Hana no Mi fruit. Her nickname the Light of the Revolutionary was well deserved. Formerly the Boroque Work Vice President, and a lethal assassin. He didn't know why at first, but Robin had taken an interest in him even when they were enemies in Alabasta. He captain had a pretty guess it had to do with the letter "D" in his name. She told him that another person close to her Jaguar D. Saul had saved her life after his fight with Crocodile. Robin had told him she was devoted to him after The event at Enies Lobby. The former Miss Sunday was grateful to him for allowing her to live a second life with friends who she cared about. Even telling Luffy she vowed to get stronger for him. Though him and Robin were friends it still wasn't the same as his relationship with Nami. In fact it was incomparable; the difference between night and day. It only confused him further because he saved Robin more than a few times. He's held her in his arms heroically more than a few times, carrying her to safety. The captain also knew that Robin did care for him, and it still wasn't the same. Neither of them shared any feelings toward one another. The former demon child cared all about her friends equally, but was intimate with Franky.

Franky the shipwright of the Sunny and the captain of the straw hats did not get along when they first met. Luffy beat the hell out his subordinates and wrecked his house for mugging Usopp, which in turn was the catalyst of the marksman's departure. However after Enie's Lobby he began to respect the Straw Hats and their captain dedication to saving one of their own, ultimately pledging himself to their cause. Luffy forgave Franky, and came to accept the cyborg as an ally, even going so far as to trust him with the rescue of Robin, who he was trying to save at the time. Franky was the so called father figure of the Straw hats, but Luffy considered Franky his big brother. Franky told him he felt Luffy would make an a great honorary member of the Franky Family. In return Luffy was comfortable enough to allow Franky to eat the Mera Mera no Mi fruit, which was his late brother Ace's will. After Dressrosa, Franky hardly ever questioned his decisions even going so far as to calm him boss; he could get used to it.

There was no complaints when it came to Brook. The two were kindred spirits, loners at their true hearts. The rest of the crew did not want the skeleton to join at first. The crew changed their minds after Luffy's carefreeness around the reanimated corpse. Since the beginning of his adventure, Luffy sought out a musician. Now he had an infamous singer and couldn't be happier that Brook followed his orders without question. Though the skeleton was very much dead, his reanimated corpse showed a lot of admiration for Luffy's spirit, claiming to Big Mom he would tear through any walls to achieve his goals and his ambitions; damn straight he was going to be Pirate King.

When he first met a chopper he didn't have a need to bring him on board. It was Nami who initially initiated him into the crew. He began to grow close with reindeer the pair were nearly inseparable. He was grateful to have the doctor by his side. Whenever Luffy felt hungry Chopper would share his rare cotton candy sandwiches giving his captain a sugar high. Or even Chopper overly bandaging him up and forcing him to stay in the infirmary for his own good. Luffy was sure he had the best doctor in the world. He vowed to help him find every cure for every known disease in the world. It would probably require a few trips around the world.

Then it brought him all back to the moment with his navigator. Luffy remembered when Nami was in different bodies at punk hazard it didn't change their relationship. It was a little strange at first but her eyes remained, he loved her soul. It wasn't a lust thing with Luffy, nothing ever was. It's a special bond formed through mutual respect, admiration, and most importantly unwavering trust in one another. Their relationship was forged through the fire through adventure but never wavering. After Cake Island he was starting to think they might just take on the world some day.

Realizing that he did truly love her in his own way, he decided what he needed to do. He knew Zoro would not object to this either.

"Nami." His serious tone was back and Nami gave him her attention. "You told me earlier..to protect everyone. I might not be able to do that.." Luffy sighed before continuing "Franky asked me earlier how long would it be before Kaido tracked us and hunted us down. If he got us in the open sea..I-" the captain glancing towards his orange haired navigator to see she was waiting him to finish his thought. "I have to go back to Wano and face him, I know Zoro and Tra-Guy will back me up. But Nami.." the seriousness in his tone made her shuffle a bit nervous for his next words. "If Kaido wins and we lose I want you guys to leave and don't turn back so he can't follow you guys! This is the best pla-"

"YOU CANT BE SERIOUS!" Nami's voice rang out breaking the straw hat captains concentration.

"Nami it's the On-" Luffy began but was swiftly cut off.

"THATS A LOAD OF CRAP LUFFY! Are you seriously going to tell me that after-" he could see the anger starting to waver and Nami began to look a little sad.

Hugging herself she began to speak with a softer tone. "So you just want me to abandon you while you face an impossible task on your own."

Luffy lifted her chin so she could see the look in his eyes. "Kaido will NOT get anywhere near this ship Nami, if it has to be over my dead body then-!"

She pulled away from his touch. "Luffy that plan isn't happening so just get it through your thick head already! We will go back when we recoup with everyone."

"There's no time-"

"Its not happening Luffy." Nami crossed her arms. She would not budge on this. Luffy was getting fed up, she asked him to protect everyone and when he wanted to do it his way she was refusing to help him.

"I'm the captain Nami, we're setting a course for the Land of Wano." Luffy stated calmly.

"Is that an order captain?" Nami asked her bangs hiding her eyes.

"Yeah." Was simply his reply.

"Alright setting a course for Wano then." Nami stated in the same tone he had just earlier it sounded distant and he hated it. Pulling a chart from the drawer she began to get to work.

"Thanks Nami for agree-"

"I'm NOT agreeing with you! So don't thank me. But your the captain so.. I'm following orders." Nami returned to her work not batting the captain an eye. He could tell she was still upset.

"Look Nami I-"

"Save it Luffy. I have to work late because of you,so if you don't mind it'd be a lot easier without you here."

"We have to go for him before he comes for us." Luffy stated folding his arms hoping she would see his side to this.

"I understand. Now go Luffy I have to work." Nami said not sparing him a glance.

"Okay I'll leave." Looking back he could see the navigator hard at work. Her expression was of hurt and he was the cause of it.

"Nami I'm sorry." Nami finally glanced up at him. She repeated herself. "Just go." She waved nonchalantly continuing her chart.

"Really Nami I am-"

Nami lost her patience. "GO!" She yelled pointing towards the exit. Getting the point there was no way words would work at this point she was inconsolable. He would have to apologize properly at a later time.

"Okay I'll go." No more than a second later he was out of the room never making a sound as if he was never there at all.

Nami gave a sigh of relief to have a moment to herself. All the things they had done to each other in the room she would need a minute to recover. Why did things have to go the way they did? She wanted to support Luffy in what he did, but his recklessness would be the death of him. It was her way of protecting him. She couldn't lose him, how would she live with herself knowing she let her captain perish. Nami plopped on the couch rolling to her side, silently wishing Luffy was still there even if she was upset with him. He was such an idiot. It what made her fall in love with him but when he became reckless in battle it worried her death.

Nami shuttered at the thought of life without her captain. She couldn't help it sobs raked from her remembering the sweet words her captain said to her replaying in her mind over and over. "I care about you so much Nami." Luffy said claiming in a passionate kiss stealing her breath away. A slightly louder sob came forth as she curling herself wishing she didn't kick Luffy out but she needed to hold strong in hopes he would change his mind. Knowing it was unlikely, she remembered the extent of his injuries against Katakuri. She was relieved when he came back alive and barley conscious. Nami remembered the first place his eyes found when he came back to the sunny, hers. It was like he wanted her to be there by his side when he returned. He was left incapacitated for days barley able to do simple chores so she took care of him. The navigator remembering fondly her feeding him the first night in the infirmary because he couldn't use his hands. The two just enjoyed the time together remembering their adventure fondly as if it happened to other people and not them. Nami really did love Luffy, she hugged a pillow close to her chest.

"Oh Luffy.." she whispered to herself as she fell fast asleep her thoughts filled with her captain.

The navigator now asleep was unaware Luffy was frozen on the ladder not believing what he heard. Nami was sobbing to herself after angrily telling him to leave. It suddenly clicked in his head. He really was an idiot. His ego clouded his judgement at the moment proclaiming he would take on Kaido alone. Nami didn't care if he pulled rank on her to give her an order it was it disregard for his own safety in front of her. True she wanted him to protect them but not risking his life on a hair brained scheme. He finally understood now what she was mad about.

'I really fucked up' sighing to himself he gave one last look towards the library before descending the ladder. Sticking his hands in his pockets he began walking towards the men's dormitory. Not before taking one last look at the Library then back towards the starry night. He would like nothing more than to rush back in there shake her awake beg for forgiveness and kiss her breathless like before. Shaking his head to rid of his perverse thoughts. It would probably be awhile if he did that again, if ever. He swore Franky, Sanji, and Brook was rubbing off on him. Less than a minute later Luffy disappeared into the ship.

Zoro and Brook watched their captain enter the ship resuming their conversation.

"I told you he'd do it chew toy. Now bring more Sake and pay up." Zoro grinned laying back in a satisfied state.

"Wow he really did it? It was so intense I swore I died. Oh wait I'm already-"

"Just get my money and Sake already dammit!" The swordsman shouted kicking the skeleton from the crows nest onto the upper deck.

The former pirate hunter looked towards the night sky. Usually on nights like there was nothing better than drinking and looking for the brightest stars. It was a great pastime when he wasn't asleep. Zoro needed get his sleeping habits under control. He slept during the day so would usually kept night watch spending the time getting drunk and singing songs with Brook who never slept due to being a skeleton . The green haired samurai hated sleeping during wartime anyway it was unsettling, he'd settle for daytime power naps.

A chilling wind like no other broke Zoro out of his contemplation. 'What is this? It's like no other chill I've felt only when..' a pit formed in the swordsman stomach. This feeling he recognized it; hopelessness.

"Oi Swordsman-San! Another chorus of Bink's Sake? Yohoho!" Brooks voice brought the swordsman back to the world. The fleeting feeling gone as quick as it came.

"Yeah hurry up!" Zoro called leaning back once again. Brushing off whatever the feeling he had thinking it was an anomaly. He was wrong.

A/N: All our war next