A/N: ok i have to admit this is shorter than the last chapter by a few hundred words, not thousands. Anyway i'm very tired at the moment since i have to get ready for my baby bro's birthday tomorrow! He's turning 2 can you believe it?! Ok now that excitement is done, the chapter will be talking about how Rinoa got over the 'betrayal' of her brothers! The plot will include my heritage as much as i wonder why. Also please don't ask why i have the worst grammar for this chapter and all the my other chapters.
~Rinoa's POV~
I didnt know where to go at the moment since i was busy thinking about the group...I knew that i might never get over what happened yesterday but damn it all happened way too fast! I stopped for a second and kicked down a tree. I felt a sudden jolt on my leg and reminded me that i was still pretty injured from the tiger's attack. I seriously just got an idea where to go right now. The damn clearing that's where i should go!
After thinking about going to the clearing i began to head my way there while thinking if the tiger was still there or not. Its nice to see the clearing after all that happened, I noticed that there was a slightly dark shadow near the rocks. I frowned thinking that it was a person so i followed it. I didnt expect to see the tiger injured and seemed to be breathing heavily. I was planning to leave it die but i stopped...The tiger held so much memories also, I cant just let the tiger die that easily!
So i rushed to where the tiger was. There was a big gash on its right front paw...hmm that seemed to be where my injury was. I snapped out of my thoughts when i heard the tiger groan in pain. So i did what seemed to be suicidal, I started caressing the tigers head. The tiger's eyes snapped at my direction and met my own eyes. I was marveled when i saw those beautiful golden eyes of the tiger. I knew from then on I had to care for the animal.
We didnt do anything but when the tiger looked back at no where i knew that it didnt care at the moment. So i took that chance and started collecting some leaves to act as a temporary bandage. I wrapped the leaves around the right front paw. The tiger growled but the tiger didnt do anything.
"hey i'll be back i need to get the right equipment to help you...it'll be fast so dont move" I told the tiger and when i got a purr in return i started dashing back to the orphanage. I didnt care if i got a few scratches on the way, all that was in my mind was the medical kit and water to cleanse the wound. I knew it took me a few minutes to get back to the orphanage and when i got there i opened the back door quietly so that Makino wont see me nor hear me. The last thing i needed was her to follow me to the woods which is not a place for someone like her.
I rushed to the infirmary. I looked inside to see if anyone was there. I was surprised when i saw a young girl there, but i didnt care at the moment. The nurse/doctor didnt seem to be there at the moment which was good for me. I rushed and got bandages, a few needles just in case some got lost or broke, thread, a water basin, a sponge, some sort of cream that i saw the nurse usually put on us, and some sort of big stick so that the it would be used as a support while the tigers paw heals. I was about to leave when i saw the girl staring at me.
It scared the shit at me. I was tempted to jump out of the window, but i couldnt. The girl seemed familiar. She looked at the stuff i was carrying and looked at me.
"do you need help carrying that?" she asked politely, i was surprised since she didnt seem to know who i was...well then she was new then. I wanted to say no but knowing that if someone helps me then i could arrive to the tiger faster. I nodded my head and she went down from the bed to help me. I knew she was injured but i didnt say a word about it. What i gave her to carry was the water basin and bandages since it wont be hard to carry.
I led her outside. She was a bit slow but i knew that was because of the injuries she have. We first rushed to the lake and when she saw me staring at the water, she seemed to know what it meant. Since she took the sponge, and bandages out of the water basin and filled the water basin with water. I found a huge leaf to use as a cover for the water. I carried all of the other stuff but the water basin she carried.
This time I started to speed walk instead of running so that less water could be spilled on the way. When we got to the clearing i was surprised to see the tiger heading our direction. It was as if the tiger knew that we were coming. I mentally cursed when the tiger fell back down. I rushed to the tiger's side while setting the stuff down. I raised the right front paw and examined it more. It wasnt that bad that what it looked like before but it still needed stitches. I looked over to the girl and saw her coming to my side cautiously, i cant blame her, she would be an easy kill if the tiger was lively. She laid the water basin in between us. I took the leaf off and i was happy to see that there was still a lot of water left, it looked like that barely any water spilled.
I motioned for the girl to stay back a bit. I used the sponge to suck some water, and i squeezed it so that it wont be too wet. I started cleaning the wound first. The tiger didnt like that and snapped its jaws a bit in pain. The girl behind me squeaked in fear, but my attention was at the tiger right now. After the wound was clean i used the needle and thread to stitch the wound. I had to tackle the tiger to the ground also when it showed signs to start moving from the pain. It took me an hour to make sure that the thread wasnt too tight and too loose and started tying it up. I put the cream to relieve the tiger from the pain that it might be feeling right now. I heard the tiger purr, and i mentally laughed. Once the cream was on the wound, i took the stick and aligned it with the leg. I used the bandages to wrap the stick and wound together. That was tiring!
I looked at my work pleased. Then i noticed the group that i ran away from looking at me from behind a few trees in front of me. I swear what are they doing here?! The little girl saw me look ahead and also looked my way. She flinched and walked towards me like i was some sort of protective shield. Damn she reminded me of how Luffy usually acted...dang it! I hid her behind me while the tiger still lied down on the ground content that its wound was treated. My hands were a bit bloody but who cares! I motioned a hand gesture for them to come out of their hiding spots. I heard Gerard curse and what it seemed like Nusrat giggling.
Once they were out they came towards me. The tiger growled a bit but i caressed its head and the growl turned into a purr. I feel like the tiger is starting to like me, i'm not sure about that. They seemed surprised at how i tamed the tiger. It seemed that all the tiger wanted was company. I was proud also, only if Luffy saw this...i miss him, i miss the 3 idiots already. Nusrat was instantly by my side, she was looking at the tiger in wonder. It amused me seeing her like that. The tiger was curious also but the tiger's head was laid down on the grass. I knew from then on that the tiger would be with us.
"hey Rinoa where did you find the tiger?~" Nusrat asked sing-song, i was irritated yes but their company was nice. I showed them by pointing behind me where i found the tiger. She nodded understanding. Nusrat then started rubbing the tiger's belly with the dangers out of her head. She was practically having fun in my eyes, but seriously whats wrong with this girl?! My eyes were practically out of their sockets. I heard laughing.
"ahahahaha! we should have expected this from nusrat...pfft, ahhahahaha!" Xenia laughed she was rolling around the grass. I was sweat-dropping by now. Daniel saw my expression and explained a bit further.
"nusrat loves tigers that's why...hehehe you're gonna have to literally drag her away from the tiger if you have to" with a smirk. I didn't want to drag her or force her nothing like that, but she might hurt the tiger!
So i did what was impossible for me in my books. I did force her by hugging her. Gerard looked at me in horror like i just did the worst thing ever. Even Jennifer was gaping like a fish. Xenia stopped laughing and had a look that said 'you didn't dare', Daniel who was right beside me was trying to get away from me.
I didn't know what their problem was but its getting annoying! That was when i was tackled down by Nusrat and she hugged me back harder. She was squealing like hell! Now i knew why they seemed frightened. Nusrat was practically drowning me in hugs. I tried to get away by pushing her away from me. But it was nearly impossible until the girl hit Nusrat's head by a small stick she found.
Nusrat instantly let go of me and her hands went to her growing bump. She whined a bit and I was breathing heavily since i was never hugged like that before. I have a feeling i will never get away from her ever again. The girl helped me up. I silently thanked her. Nusrat then looked at the tiger again with a smile. Of course i went and defended the poor animal from dying from hugs.
Nusrat pouted when I stopped her again. She then looked at the girl that hit her. She seemed surprised but in her eyes she had a look of recognition. Xenia looked at the girl also and her mouth was gaping like a fish. Honestly whats wrong with them.
"hey arent you suppose to be in the infirmary?!" she asked the poor girl. The girl instantly nodded her head.
Gerard walked up to her a bit "then what are you doing here?"and asked her calmer. Im grateful for that since the girl seemed very afraid at the moment. I shook my head in amusement. So i spoke,
"whats your name?" i asked her as calmly as i could. Well now the girl knew that i could speak, i hope she didnt thought that i was mute...but by the way her face looked at me i knew that it was too late for that silent prayer. She was gaping at me like she just saw a gh-wait...SHE THOUGHT I WAS A GHOST?!
"yes i can talk and please dont look at me like i was a ghost" i snapped at her a bit making her flinch.
She bowed her head in sorry "sorry about that...my name is Psalm Raine P. Romero...im 7 years old can i ask for your name?" she looked at me with big dark brown eyes. My eyes grew when i heard the last name...My mouth was slightly open from disbelief...please dont tell me she's the girl that i saw with my previous parents...
"my name is Rinoa Leigh P. Romero...and what are you doing here? arent your parents with you?" When i said the word parent i spat it out of my mouth like venom. I was abandoned when i was 2 and they abandon another girl at the age of 7?! what next they abandon another biological sibling of mine in what...3 years?! Psalm was gaping at me and her eyes were wide as plates from what i told her. Xenia and the others screamed but i could careless at the moment i need to know what happened to her parents...
Her hair was covering her eyes "mom and dad...told me i was useless so they left me in front of the orphanage with a bruise..." she admitted, she's lucky she only left with a bruise. As far as i read with my records the first time i came here i was sick, had tonsillitis, broken arm, and a black eye...yup i was worse.
I sighed and rubbed my temples in frustration. Seriously what else could happen?! First Ace, Luffy and Sabo leave me now here i found out that i have a biological sister that was also abandoned by the same people! Well now i have to care for her now do i...damn it! I looked at her sadly and sighed.
"you know...big sister is here so dont worry..." i told her and i opened my arms hoping that she would come. She did so i held her there while she cried her eyes out. I looked over to the other 5 and they were looking at us sadly. I sneered at them and told them that i dont need their pity.
I held her there for what it seemed like forever until she fell asleep. I laid her next to the tiger...ok my sense of danger is really bad. However the tiger just looked at her and went back to whatever it was doing. She's safe as far as i know. I felt a hand on my left shoulder and i looked over to see Daniel looking at me with worry. I'm still not comfortable with them but i will get use to it. I looked over to the clearing once again and smiled when i noticed a huge tree was by the cliff...i got an idea but i need to wait for that later on.
Jennifer was talking with Xenia. Xenia had a serious look on her face, while she was looking at the tree and the cliff side also...wait do they have the same idea as me? if they do then it might be perfect! Then i heard stomachs growl, I looked at Daniel and Gerard they were blushing from embarrassment. Xenia, Nusrat and Jennifer were giggling until their stomachs growled also, they looked at each other before laughing. I silently laughed but my stomach growled fiercely reminding me that i missed breakfast and probably lunch by now. I sighed and went over to the place a deer herd should be. I was stopped by Gerard again. He looked like he wanted to help in hunting.
I told him to prepare fire to cook the food, i looked at the tiger and noted in my head to bring some food for the tiger also. I knew that i could handle hunting by myself as long as the males dont decide that they can fight back. Well wish me luck.
~45 mins later~
I came back with 5 deer behind me. I was surprised when i saw the tiger cuddling with my...sister, im still not used to calling her that. I laid one deer in front of the tiger, who gladly took it with gratitude. I began to cut the meat part of the deer with the 4 other deers. Once all the meat was separated from the coat of the deer, Daniel and Gerard took the raw meat and began cooking it over the fire. I honestly never expected this to ever happen, but i guess i really have to accept the fact that they really left me...wait no, Luffy asked if i could visit them...maybe...one day.
My thoughts were interrupted by Xenia "hey do you see that big tree over there?", Nusrat looked at her.
"the one that its practically connected to the cliff? yea why" while she took a piece of meat. Jennifer took a piece also and began to eat.
Xenia looked excited "well Jennifer told me if we can build a few structures there we can make that into a place we can hang out together!" while throwing her hands up in excitement. Dang, i need to give her credit she knew what i was thinking about.
Daniel and Gerard glanced at her with a questioning look, "since when do we hang out together?" Gerard asked them while placing his chin on his palm. Well...i thought they were friends, from what Xenia told me.
Nusrat crossed her arms and pouted "well since we started playing together! besides, once friends stays as friends!" she said, but when she saw me, Nusrat started sweating a bit remembering my situation. Gerard and Daniel groaned but smiled, they looked at each other before saying "sure".
After that Nusrat started hugging Jennifer from happiness. I was happy for them but when i saw Jennifer look at me, I raised a brow.
"you know...you're our friend too you know" she admitted loud enough for everyone to hear. Gerard choked on his meat and Daniel looked at her in surprise. It seemed that they thought that she was mute. I laughed out loud because of their faces.
"hey stop laughing!" they both said simultaneously, Xenia and Nusrat started laughing also basically we all laughed at the boys. The boys blushed in embarrassment, then they looked at me.
"are you...joining us on making it?" Daniel asked, I smirked at him.
I swallowed my piece of meat before speaking "of course, besides i knew the forest way more that you", I mentally laughed when i saw their faces. They seemed offended on how i put it but i really dont care. Then all of a sudden a piece of meat was on my face. I heard gasps all around me and i had a feeling im not gonna like who threw it at me.
I growled and peeled off the piece of meet off of me. Then i saw Gerard biting his lip to stop from laughing and i noticed his shoulders were shaking. I knew that it was him just from the body language. So in revenge i threw a piece of meat at him also but he dodged it and landed straight at Daniel's face. Daniel wasnt expecting meat to be thrown at him so he also stumbled down to the ground when the meat landed on him.
I busted out laughing even though its not the person i wanted to hit. By then Daniel tried his revenge but the meat landed straight inside Jennifer's mouth. I gaped since it was a perfect timing! I heard Jennifer growl and from then on everything happened in a blink. We started a meat fight since that was the only food available at the moment. Surprisingly the tiger did nothing but when meat was hurling the tigers way, the meat is always in its mouth. Wait i need to give the tiger a name...maybe i should ask them-whack! After i demolish them with meat!
As far i as i know i think the meat fight lasted about 10 minutes, which is actually long for a food fight...But i can imagine worse! i felt pretty sticky because of the grease and the mud mixed together. I did have fun though which is always a good thing in my opinion. That was when i remembered about the tiger.
"hey you guys, what should we name the tiger?" i asked out loud. Everyone was heaving since they were tired from the meat fight. Nusrat however got her energy back from mentioning the tiger. Well she literally jumped on her feet. Everyone else groaned.
"ok so i have a suggestion how about Lovi?~" she asked me in a sing-song voice. I thought about the name but when i heard the tiger growl i knew that he didnt like the name. Even i didnt like the name...it just sounded pretty weird.
Nusrat whined but still kept suggesting...weird names...which earned a growl for every name. Daniel suggested Joseph, but it was responded by a growl also. Gerard suggested thunder, i gave him a confused look and he began explaining how tigers strike like thunder; I understood where he was going on this but he was turned down by the tiger again. Xenia then exclaimed stripes as a suggestion i knew why so i chuckled but the tiger turned that down too. Jennifer suggested fang because of its sharp teeth, but it sounded girly for some reason which earned her a sneer instead of a growl. Jennifer hid behind me in fright.
I sighed in frustration. I started to study the tiger more. The way the tiger acted was filled with passion, and the way that his eyes and pattern stood out it reminded me of fire...wait... Thats it! I connected my fist and palm together since i had an idea. Everyone looked at me Psalm just cuddled closer to the tiger.
"how about Kasai?" i suggested hoping that the tiger would finally stop being stubborn and accept the name. I heard a purr and i knew that ti-no Kasai liked his new name. Everyone nodded their heads enthusiastically. Nusrat pouted a bit since her name choices were not picked but she still smiled. Xenia slapped her back and said better luck next time! Everyone started congratulating Kasai for getting a name which earned all of them a purr. Psalm began to wake up.
"w-wait what happened?" she asked while rubbing her eyes, when she noticed where she was; she did nothing but screech a bit, but that all stopped when Kasai's paw started to ruffle her head. Psalm had a bewildered look. I was chuckling.
Gerard stood up and put his hands on his hips "well would you look at that, Kasai is liking all of us!" while laughing at Psalm misfortune for being Kasai's new teddy bear. Xenia then stood up and asked us the most horrible question.
"well then! who wants to take a bath with me in the lake?" she asked enthusiastically, everyone but me gave her horrified look, to me im used to it since i took baths with my A.S.L. So i shrugged my shoulders, she noticed it and decided to drag me to the lake. Nusrat cheered and followed us Psalm also though she had a bit of difficulty since she needs to get away from Kasai too. Though Kasai followed us limping his way but Psalm helped him. They boys groaned but followed us anyway. Jennifer followed hesitantly. I feel bad for them, since its probably their first time taking a shower together...if they decide to anyway.
I decided to lead them since i knew a place where its shallow enough but theres no alligators which is a plus. I shivered about the thought of fighting the alligators. Its hard to fight them in water. When we got there the girls went in without stripping...ok now i was confused how are they gonna take a bath while wearing clothes.
"ohh so thats what you meant...sure we'll join." Daniel said and Xenia looked at him like he was crazy.
"what you thought we were gonna strip? theres boys here! idiot!" she yelled at him while punching his shoulder playfully. Even i mentally slapped myself. Damn i forgot that the boys were here for a second. I went to the water and it felt really nice feeling the water. I glanced at Gerard and noticed that he wasnt moving so i did what i thought was fun. I dragged him forcefully to the water making him trip onto a rock and fell forward, but with me! The water muffled the sounds a bit but i knew that the others were laughing. Gerard and I rose from the water at the same time. He and I glared at each other before a water fight initiated.
~No one's POV~
So Rinoa and her new friends played around the lake happily. Rinoa still had her doubts but she was reconsidering it. Psalm was just chilling with Kasai. Nusrat, Jennifer and Xenia were looking at the fishes that were swimming about. Daniel fell asleep on the water. Gerard and Rinoa looked at each other before a mischievous grin appear on their faces. Psalm was pulling away Kasai from the water as fast as she could knowing what will happen.
Gerard and Rinoa went on either side of Daniel. After a minute of observing, Daniel was tackled down to the lake floor. Water was being splashed everywhere through the pitiful struggles that Daniel was attempting to make. Rinoa rose from the water laughing and clutching her stomach like she depended on it. Daniel rose after her taking deep breaths, Gerard was still under the water, he seems to be swimming to Rinoa.
Rinoa never expected a tickle attack from Gerard. So by the time she noticed him, Gerard already attacked Rinoa's guarded stomach. As revenge Daniel joined Gerard also, he knew that Gerard wasnt ticklish so the only target was Rinoa. So far Rinoa was not having fun at the moment, her ticklish side was being attacked and she had no defense since she left her pipe on shore.
'crap! if i dont get the upper hand im doomed' she screeched mentally. While she was thinking about a plan to get away, Gerard took advantage of that.
He instantly started tickling Rinoa's neck, the reaction was instant. Rinoa jerked instantly from one touch. Her neck was just too sensitive for its own good! Rinoa had no choice but swim away. Gerard and Daniel wasnt expecting for her to swim so she did get away that time. Rinoa swam all the way to where Jennifer was.
Nusrat and Xenia looked at each other before their laughter rang. They were supporting each other to stop from falling but because of that they both fell. Jennifer didnt like the fact that she was being used as a shield by Rinoa. Though said person was thanking Jennifer mentally. Psalm was laughing in the distance, holding onto Kasai to support her body.
They stayed there for another 2 hours, the sun was nearly at its setting peak. So they decided to go back to the orphanage, although Rinoa stayed and told them to go back. Psalm was protesting and told her that she wants to stay with her older sister. But Rinoa made it clear that the forest was dangerous for them since they didnt know how to defend themselves. Gerard and Daniel felt offended but they knew better and obeyed Rinoa. Nusrat pouted while Xenia was pulling her back to the orphanage, Jennifer followed a suit and stole a glance back to Rinoa; trying to figure out what she was about to do.
When they were gone Rinoa took Kasai with her to the dump aka dump thats filled with building materials. If Rinoa needs more she can just steal no biggie. Rinoa made some sort of bag and used Kasai to carry the bag. The feline had a feeling that he will be carrying most of the materials. By the time they got there the sun was already gone and the moon was beginning to show with a couple of stars. Rinoa made Kasai stop by the boundaries of the forest so that no one would see him. Kasai laid down in the grass away from any light to avoid being seen.
Rinoa rushed inside and stealthy got at least 15 wooden planks that seemed strong enough and carefully got it to where Kasai was. She repeated the same process until there was at least 100 wooden planks. It was a lot but she will need more than just planks. So she went back and searched for any metal, screws, nails, etc. She also found a bucket so she used it to put all the tiny materials in. By the time she found enough screws and nails it was about or near midnight, and boy was she tired. Rinoa also had to carry the metal sheets that she found. However Rinoa did as planned. She also found a couple of hammers and a few screw drivers which she took happily. Rinoa noticed that the bucket was nearly full but she knew she needed more, considering that they might be making a lot of mistakes. Rinoa first brought back what she had to Kasai and went back.
Rinoa found 2 more buckets which is again very useful. Rinoa never expected to find more nails and screws and her luck just seemed to be bad. She only found enough to fill half of the second bucket and she still had her third bucket to fill. So she had no choice but steal what she needed from the local metal shop. Rinoa wanted to avoid stealing since she never liked stealing but she had no choice. She is very stealthy so she got in with ease. When she found the aisle for EVERYTHING, she just filled her buckets quietly knowing that the noise will wake the owner up. She was about to leave when she noticed the counter. She was practically curious so curiosity won and she looked at how much the seller actually sold. Rinoa instantly felt bad when she studied the notes and saw that there was practically non profits.
Rinoa had a some savings from selling almost whatever she found had worth. So far Rinoa remembered that she had at least 50,000 beli saved. She and Ace would find the items with the greatest value and they split the profit of course! But seeing how much she took, Rinoa really felt bad. Rinoa left her buckets inside the store for safety and raced back to the forest, where their savings were. When Rinoa got there she noticed that all of their savings were still there, but she only took her share thinking that her...brothers...might come back for their shares. Rinoa took all 56,896 beli that she saved and raced to where Kasai first. She informed Kasai that she might be out longer, she earned a purr in understanding.
As far as Rinoa knows she was back to the store in an instant and noticed that her buckets were still there. So she went back in quietly and checked how much everything was in total. Rinoa noticed that every pound for the materials were 10 beli, pretty cheap actually. Maybe thats why the store is not making any profit. So she got all of the materials she took and weighed them. In total the materials were only 20 pounds...that was still heavy! 20 damn pounds! But who cares. So she paid the amount and left the money on the counter. However Rinoa's eyes had caught a few interesting things by the back. It was metal poles and the tag says that for every 2 you buy its only 30 beli...damn thats really really cheap! Who in the world made the damn prices?!
She thought it was perfect and she also noticed a Saw (tool!) in the equipment section. She took 4 and in total it only costed 400 beli! now thats something, but still cheap. Rinoa also took at least 30 poles so that's...450 beli... THATS IT! Rinoa bought 60 poles instead, so she had to pay 900 beli just for the poles. Everything was heavy but it was worth it. So in total of everything Rinoa only spent 1,500 beli but she left another 500 beli as tip. She left with difficulty since everything was heavy but she cant complain now.
It took Rinoa nearly forever to get back to where Kasai was. Kasai was instantly helping her with the metal and she was very grateful for that. She knew that Kasai can carry more but she wouldnt risk it, so she split the weight like she does with her money and speaking of money. Rinoa first went to the clearing and laid every material on the grass before telling Kasai to guard it. So she went back to the hiding spot and left her money there again. Once she was back it she looked up to see that moon was slightly away from the peak, telling her that it was probably 2 am by now. Damn was she tired but she still had to design the place. So she went back to the orphanage for a few pencils and stack of paper only. She looked to see if her...friends were asleep and they were and boy do they snore! Psalm had no blanket so as an instinct she covered her sister with a blanket like she always does with Luffy.
Rinoa smiled fondly and went back to the forest though she didnt saw that Makino was watching from afar wearing a smile. Makino went back to sleep now knowing that Rinoa was safe and sound doing whatever she wanted without any care. Rinoa reached the clearing and saw that Kasai was asleep. She smiled knowing how tired he was since she was tired herself, but she found new adrenaline just from thinking about how everything will look like. So with a smile Rinoa started drawing.
~45 minutes later~
Rinoa's brain was exhausted and her body was in need of sleep. So after she approved of her 20th design her body had finally shut down next to Kasai. Her body was finally happy that it could finally rest after all the weight she had to carry. Rinoa began to dream about an old memory.
~flashback~
A 5 year old Rinoa was running with a huge bag on her back. She had a huge smile on her face since inside the bag was more trinkets that they would be able to sell. She turned a corner only to fall down on the ground with an extra weight on top of her. She looked to see a tiny body against her waist. Her smile grew bigger.
"oi Luffy dont tackle people like that! it could hurt them" a blonde named Sabo scolded her baby brother. She laughed a bit and stroke Luffy's hair, Sabo sighed but had a smile on his face. Another boy came at them with a scowl on his face.
"what are you guys doing? we need to go now!" while racing a fist preparing to give Rinoa a punch. Luffy was in front of Rinoa while looking at Ace with a slight glare. Ace was surprised but didnt show it, since it was the first time that Luffy ever attempted to fight back at Ace.
"down't giwe Winoa a puwch!" Luffy argued at Ace thought his words were a bit messed up. Rinoa chuckled and ruffled Luffy's hair in thanks. She smiled at him which Luffy returned back with his trademark grin.
"im okay Luffy! i wont get hurt that easily! and besides you're pretty light compared to what i was carrying!" she teased Luffy while poking his forehead. Luffy pouted at the teasing but still smiled. That was when Ace noticed the bag and raised an eyebrow.
He lifted the bag with ease and commented "you serious? you call this heavy? wow, girls body are way too fragile for their own good!" while looking through the bag.
A tick mark appeared on Rinoa's forehead in annoyance. She kicked Ace on the knees making him fall on his butt. She huffed in frustration and looked away in anger. Ace stood back up again and threw a punch on her head. The hit landed straight on her head. Hands went straight to her head in pain.
"What the hell was that for, Ace?!" she asked with a scowl, Ace growled
"what else?! you kicked me so im just returning the favor you cry-baby!" he yelled back it fiercely.
"well at least i had a reason to do that you hothead!" she insulted back at Ace,
"who you calling a Hot-head?!"
"you of course!"
"well you're a flat chested girl!"
"what the hell?! now you're looking at my damn body, pervert!"
"im just saying what im seeing you! and dont call me a damn pervert!"
They continued to fight which irritated Sabo to no end so when he decided to end the fight before it gets messy. But then Luffy started crying. Sabo stopped where he was trying to process at the fact that he forgot about Luffy.
Rinoa stopped instantly and was by Luffy. Ace had a stunned expression, one moment Rinoa was in front of him the next she was by Luffy's side. Just how protective is she?! Sabo began to laugh and Ace's dumb founded look. Luffy stopped crying when he felt Rinoa hug him.
"its okay Luffy...i wont fight with Ace anymore..." Rinoa seemed pained at the the compromise, but with a tearful from Luffy she had no choice but to make that statement.
Luffy seemed happy at the statement but what he asked for was a bit more than Rinoa can do.
"so...youw'll nevor fwight with Asce agawn?" He asked me Rinoa flinched, because that means that whatever Ace says about her that includes insults, fights, punches, kicks, etc. She cant fight back. Rinoa gulped at the sudden request. Sabo felt bad for Rinoa since once Luffy gives that look at her she cant say no.
Last time she did Luffy started crying, Rinoa panicked and did what Luffy asked her that time. She then vowed that she will never say no again. But right now the request is pretty difficult since Ace and her fight like 24/7. Ace smirked a bit when he heard her answer.
"o-ok then...i p-pro-promise then..." after that she stood up with her eyes shadowed and she threw the bag at Ace before walking away. Ace got worried since Rinoa was never this angry about a request from Luffy...Well the request is pretty difficult...
When Rinoa knew that she was far from the others. She fell down on her knees and started sobbing without any noise. Thats right she learned how to cry without any sound so that no one would get worried...but right now it would be nice to have company...
~end of flashback~
Rinoa was woken up when something wet was spread on her face. She woke up in fright thinking that it was raining but when she opened her eyes she saw Kasai...Doing the most ridiculous thing any big cat would do. That was acting like an actual pet! The tiger warmed up to her way too fast but thats a good thing also. For now Rinoa's face was filled with Kasai's slobber. She was disgusted but then again she might as well get use to it.
I looked at the tree once more before Rinoa nodded her head. The branches were pretty sturdy looking but she had to test it first...after she eats and gets the slobber off of her face. However when she looked at Kasai, there were what seemed to be 7 deer corpses. Well Kasai seemed to be powerful enough to be hunting. Rinoa smiled at the fact that Kasai felt better than before. Kasai yawned before he started bathing himself aka licking himself clean...Rinoa found it weird maybe she needs to give Kasai an actual bath next time...nah better be safe than sorry.
So Rinoa went to the lake and started bathing herself clean. Once Rinoa was done, she went back to the clearing and saw that Kasai already ate 2 deer corpses, he must have been hungry. So Rinoa hurried and skinned the other deer corpses and started to cut the meat in pieces. She looked at the materials and felt herself smile. Rinoa is just excited of showing her design and the materials that she collected. After she cooked the meat and told Kasai not to eat everything, then she will test if the branches were thick enough to support anything it will hold.
After her little inspection Rinoa noticed that the tree itself is still very sturdy and the branches were thick and wide enough to support a structure! Rinoa is very delighted at the results, now all they had to do was to make sure that they took care of the tree well so that it wont fail on them. She climbed down carefully and decided that they will be either making stairs or ladders to get up to the branches. Rinoa hurried back to the orphanage.
Rinoa was just in time since the group was already coming out with Psalm. It still felt weird that she had sworn brothers, but here right now is her biological little sister! Xenia noticed her first and called the others to come towards her. Rinoa brought her design to see what the others think. Rinoa was excited and nervous at the same time. Nusrat noticed the drawing first and asked what it was for. So Rinoa gladly showed them the schematics of their place.
Xenia's face instantly lit up. She started examining the drawing with wonder. Gerard and Daniel seemed excited too. But the question was how are they gonna get the materials they needed? Their question was answered when Rinoa told them that she stayed up last night to collect materials. Nusrat is practically squealing in delight that they will have an official place to hang out together. Xenia had a frown on her face.
"so...how are we gonna divide the space, well you already did but who is gonna take which place in the schematics?" she asked curiously,
"well i already wrote my name under one of the spots already and you can see it my name is written down on one of the top sections" Rinoa told them.
She also told them which sections would be better for them if they have fear of being too high off of the ground. Jennifer and Psalm chose the bottom sections, Daniel and Xenia chose the middle sections but Xenia suggested to make some sort of place that everyone could be in, Gerard chose one of the top sections. They wrote their names of their sections and Jennifer noticed that there were extra spaces.
She asked Rinoa if she accidentally made extra sections. Rinoa explained to them that the extra sections will be there just in case someone else decides to join them. Nusrat is hugging Rinoa happily and Rinoa was struggling to get away. Psalm pulled Nusrat away from her big sister. Nusrat pouted but laughed when she saw what Xenia was doing. Xenia was practically chasing a cat out saying that she wants to touch the kitty. Everyone busted out laughing eventually.
Rinoa added a new section on the tree. It was a section where everyone can relax together if they wanted to be hanging out with someone, or in short, if they feel lonely they can ask someone to hang out with them in that section! Everyone is happy with how it was planned and they headed to the clearing. Kasai ate a bit of the cook meat, Rinoa then added a new section on the lower bit for Kasai. It felt complete all of a sudden.
Rinoa had never been after all that happened. Right now she needs to focus on what they need to do. Xenia took a hammer and creepily swung it in a way that she looked like a killer. Daniel instantly took it away from her and Xenia whined but one glare from Rinoa she stopped. They decided to make stairs for Kasai's section and bridges so that they can go to each others sections without climbing up and down. They also decided to use ladder when going to their perspective sections. Rinoa told them about some really really thick vines and they used that as rope instead of actual rope. The vines were in fact very thick to the point that its better than rope!
Rinoa felt pride from her new friends and sister! She just hopes that whatever her old parents were doing they would not be harming a new child. If they ever decide to have another one...but Rinoa vows that as long as she lives she will always take in any sibling! With that being said.
"TIME TO GET BUILDING!" They all yelled simultaneously, while Kasai provided the food by hunting for them and himself.
~3 weeks later~
Makino sighed when she saw the Rinoa's group go outside again. She was starting to get worried about them since one time they came back with a bruise and said that they were sparring. Makino began to worry since Rinoa seemed to be enjoying their company too much, no she should be happy but she's worried of how Luffy, Ace and Sabo would absorb this new information.
Ring~ Ring~ Ring~
Speak of the devil Whitebeard was calling her. Makino bit her lip before she hesitantly answered the phone. "hello this is East Blue Orphanage how may i help you?" she asked through the line. She heard a few chuckles before a very familiar voice spoke.
"Makino! its me Luffy! Is Rinoa-nee there?" he asked anxiously. Makino felt her heart tear, since Rinoa is not here at the moment. She didnt answer for a second.
"Makino? you still there?" this time it was Sabo's voice and he sounded happy. Makino felt her heart crumble once more, before she answered.
"im still here, and Rin-" she was interrupted when Rinoa and Psalm ran in yelling that they came first. It seems that they were racing from what it looked like. Psalm was heaving while Rinoa looked no where near tired. But a smile was on her face. Makino smiled knowing that it was her chance.
"Rinoa! there you are! Luffy, Sabo and Ace are on the other line, wanna talk to them?" Makino asked her politely, she saw how Rinoa froze all of a sudden and her smile disappeared. Psalm seemed to know about the situation and frowned a bit. Rinoa nodded her head before taking the phone from Makino. Thank the heavens that she didnt need to tape the phone on Rinoa's head like last time! Psalm was right by Rinoa's side.
"Luffy? is that you?" Rinoa asked with a worried tone. Rinoa heard laughing and knew that it was Luffy.
"Rinoa-nee! i miss you! do you think you can visit? Sabo and Ace are very sorry for what they did..." Luffy asked Rinoa almost pleadingly. Rinoa had a surprised look on her face but she smiled.
"Luffy sorry i cant...im busy at the moment but tell Ace and Sabo that i forgive them no matter what!" she told Luffy, though you can hear the disappointment in Luffy's voice.
"anyway Luffy i need to go-Psalm wait for me dammit it!" Rinoa said before giving the phone back to Makino before rushing out of the house laughing.
Makino heard the gasps on the phone and she decided to explain. By the time she finished explaining she heard Luffy sniffling a bit and what it seemed that Ace was the one comforting him this time. Makino sighed in sadness. Before she could say something. Whitebeard spoke up.
"Makino-san we would be visiting once all of my work is cleared which may be not after a long time...is that alright for you?" Whitebeard asked politely, Makino sighed and answered yes but she will be keeping their visit a secret.
Whitebeard said yes in acknowledgement before she hanged up she heard Luffy cheer in excitement. Now all she had to do is keep it a secret as long as she could...Maybe she should check what Rinoa and the others are doing. Her mind decided that she will see how they are doing so she informed the nurse/doctor to handle things while she is gone.
Makino headed for the clearing knowing that the would be there, expecting them to be sparring like she was told. However when she got there she gasped in surprise. In front of her were Rinoa, Psalm, Nusrat, Xenia, Jennifer, Daniel, and Gerard building some sort of structures on a tree and it seemed that the cliff wall is also being used as a wall for the buildings. Makino couldnt believe it and when she saw the tiger near Psalm.
"Psalm look out! theres a tiger behind you!" she screeched in worry, Psalm turned around at her in surprise but she didnt pay attention at the tiger. Psalm looked up and yelled for Rinoa. Rinoa looked down at the clearing and when she saw Makino she lost her footing in surprise and fell down the tree.
The tiger went under where Rinoa was about to land and was used as a cushion. Makino was now beyond confused, why did the tiger help Rinoa? Rinoa was laughing but she stopped when she saw Makino once again. She started sweating and thinking of how she will explain this to Makino.
"oh hi Makino...this is Kasai the tiger, and ummm we're building our hideout i guess you can call that...ehehehe..." Rinoa tried to explain, by now everyone present was looking at them paralyzed. Makino tapped her foot in anger so she went up to Rinoa and pinched her ear.
"ow ow ow Makino!" Rinoa started to whine, Makino only let go when she heard the Kasai growl, she walked away a bit and the Kasai was in front of Rinoa protectively like a dog even though hes a cat...a big cat. Makino sighed before glaring at Rinoa.
"so this is what you guys have been doing the past 3 weeks?" she asked with a bit of heat, Rinoa heard Nusrat whispered-yell good luck, Rinoa doesnt need the good luck for your information! Rinoa nodded her head before looking down in shame.
Makino sighed before looking at Rinoa fondly "so are you guys gonna stay here or just a hang out, because it looks like you guys are really putting heart into this project!" she exclaimed cheerfully catching Rinoa in surprise at her mood swing. Psalm nodded her head though she wasnt sure is there are staying here aka live here.
"well we did decide last week that once this place is finished we would be living here from now on!" Xenia informed Makino, and said person nodded her head understanding that they would be moving here once they are done building it. Makino is happy, very happy indeed. Since Rinoa had finally found a place she can call home! But she is still worried.
"well then i will providing you the beds and the necessary furniture! also where did you get the materials?" she asked curious where indeed she just hoped that they didnt steal anything.
Rinoa began to tell her about how Kasai and her went to the dump and collected the some of the metal, wooden planks, some of the screws and nails, and all the other stuff. She also said how she planned to steal more stuff but she just felt bad and actually bought the materials secretly. Before Makino could ask where Rinoa got the money she explained that Ace and her would usually find trinkets here and there in the dump and sold them in edge town.
Makino understood everything and congratulated Rinoa on how responsible she was. But she also told Rinoa to buy the materials when everyone was awake next time. Since she heard that a store was robbed but then the store owner told them that he found money on his counter and a note. The store owner is pretty happy about having a buyer. Makino praised Rinoa and her new group of friends and told them to be careful.
Psalm made it obvious that Kasai is part of the group. The tiger even cuddled next to her! Makino chuckled and told them that she will be informing her friends that they would be in need of furniture. Rinoa nodded her head but she showed Makino her schematics. Makino is impressed again on how detailed it was, well in drawing but the actual measuring not so much. Nusrat and Xenia began to make their sections again same thing with the others and Rinoa decided to make Kasai's section.
Makino is very surprised when she noticed that Kasai is getting his own space. Rinoa did inform her that Kasai cant sleep under the rain or he will get sick. Makino smiled at Rinoa fondly now she understood why Rinoa told Luffy that she is busy. Rinoa told Makino that they wont be needing the furniture until they finish the place itself first. Makino nodded her head and told Rinoa that she will still tell her friends to make furniture for them. Rinoa said her thanks and began to make Kasai's section. While Kasai went to the woods.
~4 months later~
It had been about 5 months since Rinoa and the others began creating their tree-house. Now its complete from top to bottom! 2 week ago Rinoa told Makino that they will need the furniture now. Makino gladly gave them the furniture a few adults helped them. Everyone that came to help them were amazed on how a couple of kids made this beautiful tree-house! Even the architecture approved of their work and told the kids that if they need any renovations or add-on's just come to him and he will add it for them. Rinoa thanked the man for the offer and hold into the offer for the future.
Rinoa, Psalm, Xenia, Nusrat, Jennifer, Daniel and Gerard had finally moved their stuff to the tree house. They will be living there from now on with Kasai their tiger companion! As far as Rinoa knows this place is home at the moment. Its already been 2 weeks since they started living here and so far it had been heaven!
Rinoa had been teaching them how to hunt and defend themselves. Daniel and Gerard seemed happy at the fact that they could finally fight but they were still nowhere near Rinoa league of fighting. They spar everyday only for Rinoa to be the victor. Xenia and Nusrat started to make a garden so that they could eat vegetable also not only meat all the time. Jennifer is reading her book.
That was when they heard a bell rang. It was Kasai signalling that he brought food. Rinoa and Psalm started training Kasai on how to communicate with them a little over a month ago. The results are over the roof tops! Kasai learned how to communicate with them with flying colors! It seemed impossible but they also taught Kasai to protect the property like a dog would do. Speaking of dog, Rinoa found a puppy 3 months ago and named the pup Gurio. Its a weird name in Gerards mind but he heard weirder names.
Gurio is currently staying with Kasai. Kasai is also caring for Gurio like he was his own. Which is great news for Rinoa since she loves dogs. Makino had just visited them to see if they were doing alright and they are. A lot of things happened in just a few months...but what Rinoa didnt know was that a new surprise is about to happen. For now she's preparing herself for whatever life had to offer.
To be Continued~
ok that's a wrap up! Honestly i have no idea if i will get to finish my other fic! Anyway i hope that this chapter was long enough but the grammar mistakes are bad enough but im too tired at the moment to care! See ya~