Yo everyone. SORRY, SORRY, I'M REALLY SORRY FOR LATE UPDATE. Yeah, I just realized that it's been almost a month since I updated. But I hope my readers are not angry...what...?...they don't even care...?...REALLY? *GAWWWWWK*
Anyway...some #$% went down and I felt like the busiest person in the world for couple of weeks. Now if that wasn't enough than there was another issue which...isn't really important to mention here anyway. I kind of got...really unmotivated for some reason and even thought for some time that maybe I should quit writing...?...?...!...
Anyway...that's just meaningless blabbering by a useless Gorilla author, so don't sweat it.
Before we continue the story I think I should thank all my readers and reviewers in advance and of course my beta as well. And, if this chapter is a bit of a disappointment please be easy on me because I'm not very good with these kind of situations. Well...I'm not very good with anything related to writing anyway XD
But i can assure you that I'm pretty good in my profession...which is nowhere near writing stories or fanfics.
"ENOUGH OF YOUR YAPPING, LET US READ ALREADY"
...oh...sorry...please continue...(Walks away and sit in a corner surrounded by thick gloomy aura)
Chapter 8: Development
Things were back to normal on Sunny. Or it should be said a bit too normal, especially for two certain crew members. As Nami stood before kitchen's door, she was intently staring at the two mentioned people having some similar thoughts on her mind. She had been noticing some unexpected behaviors from them. Ever since Zoro came out of the infirmary completely healed, it had been quite easy to approach him, which wasn't the case before because he always got irritated if someone asked him to do something. Even though in the end he always did it at the cost of cursing or scowls. He was never interested in long conversations and always tried to finish them as quickly as possible so that he could return to his sleep or training. But recently, that wasn't the case, at least for Robin. And what's with that smile? Did he always smile like that when talking to someone? To Nami, it looked like they were enjoying their time together…just like a…
Some really bizarre thoughts ran through Nami's mind and unconsciously she started snickering…weirdly…?
"Nami-san?"
Nami stopped snickering and turned her eyes from her two targets to the source of voice. Brook was standing behind looking at her through his unreadable eye sockets. Nami couldn't figure out what kind of expression he was wearing because…he is just bones after all.
"What is it?" Nami asked sternly.
"Why were you smiling like that?" Brook suddenly gasped and then said in a surprised manner, "Don't tell me you were planning your daily panties schedule!" This earned him Nami's left elbow on his face and he crashed into the kitchen's wall, buried in the pile of split wood.
"NO…SUNNY!" Franky's scream was heard from inside the kitchen.
Idiot, those are some of the most perverted bones I've ever seen. Then again she just realized that these were the first ever-alive perverted bones she has ever seen. "Honestly, there is nothing but panties in that empty skull of yours." Nami cursed angrily.
"Ah, how much I wish this was true. But I do have a tone-dial in my skull. Yohohohohoho…" Brook untangled himself from the splintered wall and dodged Franky's hurried repairs, once again stopping in front of her as he opened his skull to show the treasure that lay inside.
Nami ignored the moron and left to explore the library to continue working on her world map. It was rare to find free time with this ship full of idiots, so she had to take advantage of the little time she was able to get.
Time passed as always. The sun descended and darkness started spreading around the atmosphere. Everyone on Sunny was indulged in their own activities, including Nami and Robin. Both women were in library. Nami's long ginger hair were tied in a ponytail, and perched on her nose was the pair of spectacles she hardly ever wore. She was hunched over the table, carefully drawing the contour lines of an island a few weeks back. A few meters away on the bench, Robin was reading a history book as usual, legs crossed gently at the ankle.
It had been quite some time since both kept busy in their own work. Suddenly it struck in Nami's mind and she decided to ask Robin about the strange anomaly she's been observing recently.
"Robin?"
"Yes?" Robin responded as she turned a page of the book.
"Did you notice that Zoro's been acting strange recently?" Nami asked, turning to Robin. She decided not to ask the main question for now; best to ease into it so as to not arouse suspicion.
"How strange exactly?" Robin asked, turning her gaze to the younger cartographer.
"What, you didn't notice? He's been acting unusually friendly, you know?"
"Is that a bad thing?"
"Not really, but what surprises me is that…" Nami narrowed her eyes and a smirk appeared on her lips, "He's been acting a bit too friendly towards you."
Robin was taken aback for a moment by Nami's sudden comment. She had a fair idea of what was on Nami's mind; this wasn't the first time this topic had arisen between the two friends. It most often started with a comment about starting romantic relationships with the other male crew members, only as a pastime conversation while each went about their business. It never evolved into anything remotely serious. Robin was the one who often emerged victorious; Nami had a nasty habit of losing her temper and cutting off the conversation with a snap.
This time wasn't any different, except that this time, Robin was reminded of that special conversation she shared with Zoro a few nights prior. And whenever Robin thought about it, she felt a strange foreign feeling rising inside her. That was indeed something unexpected. Knowing Zoro, he'd never do something like hugging someone just to say thanks. But for now that didn't matter. Robin had to make a comeback, so, getting a hold of herself, she formed a taunting smile of her own and replied while turning her gaze to Nami.
"Are you perhaps, jealous?"
"Not really. Actually, I'm curious of what kind of new development between two crew members we can get to see." Nami was quite composed this time. She had already decided to not let any of Robin's words bother her, and was determined to keep it that way.
"Development?" Sighing once, Robin continued, closing her book and crossing her arms. "If you're talking about some intimate type of development then you're way off the right path."
"Why would you say that?" Nami asked.
"Because Zoro is the last person who'll participate in this…kind of relationship." Robin calmly answered.
"…I guess you're right. Doesn't that make things more difficult for you?" Nami asked, smiling cunningly.
After staring blankly at Nami for few moments, Robin sighed once and then answered, closing her eyes in slight frustration. "Nami, whatever you're saying is just your speculations."
"Well…it's okay if you don't want to admit it. But you'll understand eventually that what I'm saying isn't just 'speculations.'" Nami packed her stuff, placed them at their respective spots and stood up to stretch. "I'm going outside to get some fresh air. Good luck with your books." Nami left the library closing the door behind her.
She arrived near the kitchen. As she glanced once at the three childish crew mates playing something weird again, suddenly kitchen's door opened to reveal a familiar blonde-haired cook.
"OI, SHIT BUMS, DINNER IS READY!" Sanji yelled, startling Nami to her core. Some veins popped on Nami's forehead and the next moment, she delivered her left punch to Sanji's right cheek.
"Who are you calling a 'shit bum'?" Nami ferociously asked, pressing Sanji's face against kitchen's wall with her fist.
"Wovy wavi-van, vi as hahin yo wem~!"
Nami retracted her fist letting Sanji fall on floor. "~Aahhh…Nami-san's fist of love~!"
As Sanji rested on the floor with heart eyes, bloody nose and mouth, the others rushed into the kitchen, Zoro taking precautions to step on the cook, and secured their spots at the table.
"Where's Robin-chan?" Sanji asked quickly recovering from previous 'assault of love' and giving Zoro a death glare.
"In the library of course," Nami answered, sitting in the last remaining seat.
Zoro watched the others around the table, none of whom seemed to be willing to fetch the archaeologist. Since someone has to go, he decided to volunteer for the job. "I'll tell her."
"A…okay. Be careful not to get lost or Robin-chan will miss her dinner."
Zoro's eye twitched a bit; he felt like showing this idiot a thing or two right at the spot, but somehow controlled his urge to do so. Wearing a scowl, he lazily walked to library, yawning and scratching the back of his head.
Now that was indeed…strange. Why would Zoro volunteer for any kind of work? He never did that before. On the contrary, he always made a face whenever he was asked to do something, especially like finding someone. It wasn't his fault those morons got lost all the time. They really had horrible senses of direction, and somehow he ended up being the one to play the search party. But this time, he didn't mind so much.
Robin was alone in the library, probably reading as usual, and Zoro was going there. Gears in Nami's head started working and all kinds of bizarre or…not bizarre…romantic clichés that could occur between two friends started swarming her brain. Nami began snickering…weirdly…again…?
"Ah…Nami-sa-" Brook appeared behind Nami. Before he could complete his sentence, Nami's elbow landed on his non-existent nose, sending him flying into the hastily repaired kitchen wall he had destroyed earlier that same day. Franky looked like he was about to have a seizure.
"But…Nami-san, I didn't even…say anything." Brook fell on floor after uttering these words. Nami ignored him.
~In the Library~
Robin was completely absorbed in her book. Whatever Nami said or tried to imply had no effect on her at all. Yeah, if that were true, she should be able to concentrate on the book in her hand while completely ignoring whatever Nami said earlier. But that wasn't the case. From the outside, it looked like that Robin was calm and was quietly reading as always. Because it was Robin she looked calmed, because she always stayed placated regardless of the given condition. But on the inside, a whole lot of 'what ifs' were swarming her brain, converging on one particular subject.
He's been acting strange. Did I really not notice it? What if what Nami said is true? What if he's trying to approach me differently now? He did hug me that night, but that was just a way to show me his appreciation for helping him…what if…that wasn't the case? What if…after those women's assault he is addicted to the woman's body in some way contrary to what I thought back then and he's trying to get close to me for his own desires?...!...No, the last one was a bit too crazy, there's no way he would think that way. But…what if he actually has feelings for me? Based on some books I've read, it's a part of human psychology. A human tends to feel attracted to another person who helps them and treats them nicely. It's the typical "nurse falls in love with her patient" type of plot. There's nothing strange about it. But…I never felt that way. What if…he starts talking like Sanji or…starts acting like him? What if…?
Robin's 'what ifs' were put to a hold when she heard a voice.
"Oi, Robin."
She was startled by Zoro's sudden arrival; it was practically impossible for the burly swordsman to sneak up on anyone. She maintained her composure and diverted her gaze from the book to Zoro. "Yes?"
"Dinner is ready. The dumbass is calling you. He wouldn't let anyone eat until you get there." Zoro blankly said pointing outside with his right thumb. "And I'm hungry. So hurry up."
"Oh, thank you for informing me."
Zoro replied with a grunt. Robin stood up and placed the book in its proper place on the shelf. As Robin proceeded to leave the library she gave a quick glance to Zoro while passing him. He was staring oddly at the bookshelves so he didn't notice Robin's glance.
No, there's no way he would have those kinds of feelings for anyone. That's the type of person he is. Robin left for the kitchen.
Zoro was still inside the library having some thoughts of his own.
Just look at all these books. He took some steps further to take a closer look. Pretty much all of them belong to Robin. Damn, just looking at them makes me feel dizzy; how can she keep reading like this without ever getting bored? I mean…one or two books are enough. Who has time to read anyway? He turned around and scratched the back of his head. Whatever…it doesn't concern me.
Several more days passed without anything unusual except Zoro's strange behavior. Only Nami and Robin seemed to notice it, but did not talk to anyone about it. As far as Robin observed, he didn't talk as much as he did few days ago and mostly stayed in his gym, high in the crow's nest. That was normal, and certainly couldn't be considered out of the ordinary. Except that Chopper had forbidden him to train intensely for a few more weeks. Despite the tiny doctor's order, he remained high above the others, and if one listened closely enough, the faint sound of clanking metal could be heard. Recently, he started talking a bit more than usual but suddenly that ended as well. That wasn't all; he avoided Robin in particular like the plague that past few days. That was strangest of all.
The next island should be in sight within one hour, according to what Nami said. What was the name of the island? How did it look like? Who knows; none of them have been there before, every new island has been a mystery and source of adventure for crew since the start of their journey anyway. These things could be found out immediately after they arrive, but for now Robin had some other issues in hand. Only a couple of hours had passed since breakfast and Zoro had been acting suspiciously again. In the past two hours, Zoro approached her three times and wanted to say something, but someone interrupted them and Zoro left quickly. The first time, Sanji had arrived with drinks and regaling flattery. The next, Chopper wanted to request that Robin join him on the island for a visit to the local library, and Robin politely put a rain check on the tiny doctor, but Zoro had already disappeared. Finally, Luffy, after forcing himself into the conversation, dragged both of his nakama to show off his new bronze statue, courtesy of Franky and Usopp. It was only a foot tall, but a bronze statue nonetheless.
"WOHO…LOOK AT THAT!" Luffy excitedly screamed as he looked at the island in front of him.
"Wow, the New World can really surprise you." Ussop said while looking at the island with wide eyes.
"We had so much trouble getting here, and it's practically a replica… right before our eyes!" Nami said.
"But it seems not every place in the New World looks thrilling and dangerous. Even though it's strange it is beautiful." Robin said, analyzing topology of the island from one edge to the other.
The new island looked like almost a copy of Skypiea. It was blanketed by thick white clouds, and a portion of the island could be seen behind it, floating in the air several meters above sea level, fog surrounding it like lace. How was it floating in air? No explanation was possible currently, but it was just a matter of time before they unravel that mystery as well.
Both portions of Island were joined together with a stone bridge connecting them. Robin was most intrigued by the gigantic tree in the center of the largest portion. It was nostalgic, reminding her of the Knowledge Tree on Ohara. Robin stared at the tree for few moments but before her abhorrent past could cloud her thoughts and ruin her mood, she wisely stopped thinking about it.
It was fine to dock at the harbor because marines had no influence in New world and luckily this was another of Shank's island. It was clear by the big flag of Red-hair pirates pasted on the mentioned tree.
As soon as Sunny drew near the Harbor, Luffy jumped off the railing in order to begin his typical explorations, but Nami grabbed his foot, resulting in him crashing in Sunny's hull.
"Just wait now…ungh…you're…heavy!" Nami almost got pulled down along with Luffy, but Sanji wrapped his arms around her waist and saved both of them from falling while his eyes filled with hearts.
"LET GO OF ME AND GRAB THIS IDIOT INSTEAD!" Nami shouted at Sanji but had no luck.
"Mellorine~!"
"What a pain in the ass." In the end, Zoro was the one who grabbed Luffy's other foot and pulled him back on deck. Finally free of the burden, Nami delivered one of her deadliest punches right to Sanji's jaw. He toppled back in a heap, swooning. Chopper began his anti-pervert therapy.
"Now, everyone gather here." Nami sternly ordered everyone. Her eyes were still twitching with anger and frustration, so no one dared to disobey her and did as she told otherwise they would end up same as Sanji, minus the therapy.
Everyone gathered on the lawn, except Sanji, who had been pulled a few feet away by Chopper to be rehabilitated, but still in earshot of the navigator.
"I know everyone wants to enjoy being here, but first things first. We will restore our supplies, and any other thing we need, from that town. Someone needs to moderate Luffy's spending. You guys do your respective jobs while in the meantime Robin and I will get information from the town."
"You're just going for shopping while dumping all the work on us." Ussop stated dully, earning a glare from Nami.
"You said something?"
"No, nothing…nothing at all!"
"Good."
~Sometime Later~
Everyone left to perform their assigned tasks. Nami, Robin and Zoro were the last ones on Sunny. Usopp and Chopper had been assigned to safeguard the captain, and Nami was sure that was a horrible idea. Franky and Brook wandered off together, and Sanji went his own way, muttering about the supply of meat. Both females were getting ready to leave as well, while Zoro was staying on guard. As usual he was sitting on deck, eyes closed in preparation for a nap.
"I'll tell Zoro that we're leaving." Robin hefted her purse and Nami nodded in response. Robin left women's quarters and climbed the stairs to arrive at the deck where she found Zoro resting as usual. He seemed to sense Robin's presence; he cracked open an eye as she approached.
"We are leaving soon." Robin calmly said. Zoro just grunted and closed his eyes again. Robin was a bit disappointed. She was hoping to hear something more, like what he wanted to say earlier? As she turned around to leave, Zoro suddenly called her from behind.
"Wait."
Robin stopped and glanced over her shoulder. "Yes?"
"I need to tell you something."
Here it comes. Zoro stood up and Robin braced herself to face anything coming her way. Although, she doubted that it would be anything as problematic as Nami said. She turned slightly to face him sidewards.
"Actually…" He paused a bit, and Robin could practically feel the nervous vibes emanating from him. That was a bad sign for Robin. He put his right hand inside the front of his dark-green coat to grab something. "…It's…" He paused again. Robin could clearly see few sweat drops running down his forehead and worst of all…very small yet noticeable redness on the edges of his cheeks.
Now Robin was getting a bit nervous as well; she wasn't ready for this. This was too sudden. Jus few days ago things were so different and…easy. If she wanted to be completely honest with herself, this new Zoro was even scarier than when he was pissed.
"I just wanted to…"
"ROBIN!"
Nami's voice interrupted, echoing around the ship. Tic marks popped on Zoro's forehead.
"Just tell me what it is?" Robin wanted to get over with it as soon as possible. Whether it was what she was thinking or not but Zoro decided otherwise.
"Its fine, you should go, I'll keep the guard." Zoro calmly said, and the tic marks vanished. He removed his hand from inside his robe, silently cursing. These popping veins were getting out of control lately; he has to find a way to control those stupid things.
Robin turned to leave, but once again was called by Zoro from behind. She was getting a bit frustrated as well. She stopped but did not turn around this time. "What now?"
"When someone returns, I'll be heading to that big tree. It would be good to take a nap under it." After pausing for a moment he continued and what he said next left Robin shocked as hell. "Come there when you get free. We can talk without anyone disturbing us."
Even though she looked calm, inside she was too shocked to say anything. "…S-sure…" was all she could come up with before Nami appeared on the lawn and started yelling her name again. She just took a few steps when once again he called.
"Oh, and be sure to come alone. I don't want anyone to find this out. Please be there, it's…kind of…important." Completing his sentence Zoro went back to his spot and drifted to his usual semiconscious sleep, but Robin could still feel his gaze on her back.
It was official now; he was asking her out on a…date? Just like that? Without any further interaction between the two, Robin paced towards Nami and both females left to get the 'information' Nami was talking about. Robin had only one thing on her mind though, the date she had fixed with Zoro. Wait…she didn't actually agree to it, but what was really going on with him? And he even said 'please'. When was the last time she heard that word escape his lips? She didn't want to admit it but Nami's speculations were not just speculations anymore. Things had gotten difficult for Robin.
Zoro was alone on Sunny's deck now. He opened his one good eye and gazed at the big tree in middle of the first portion of island.
What's with her reaction? Was she angry or something? Damn, I can't tell anything at all. Maybe I said it wrong? I wonder if she would really show up. She probably won't. But on the slim chance she decides to come I just have to tell her. Hope she wouldn't get angry. But all these days she hasn't noticed, maybe she wouldn't get angry…? Whatever…
Blinking a few times Zoro closed his eyes drifting back to sleep.
Somewhere on the distant Grand Line, on the peak of a mountain, on an inhabited island, practically wasted away by the ravings of war. There was a gravestone on the dark cloudy peak of the mountain. It was broken at quite few places and was very old. The same man who appeared in castle last time walked closer and squatted down beside the gravestone.
"Hey, buddy. Missed me? I bet you didn't. Don't worry. Very soon, everything will be over. Gears of fate have started to move already. It took me so long just to find him, but luckily he's quite talented. I just have to push the matters a little bit and everything will work out on its own. Just wait a little longer…and I'll show everyone hell."
He stood up and turned around. "Now if everything goes as planned, she will die, but this game will move to its next level." A sinister smirk formed on his face as he mumbled before started laughing maniacally as a flash of lightning streaked across the darkening sky.
...!...!...*mumble**mumble**mumble*...*mumble*...
Mysterious Voice from Background: Useless Gorilla Author is still sulking and talking with Mr. Corner. But, if you leave a review he will surely feel a bit better. Anyway in his stead I'm gonna do this now...*ahem*...THANKS FOR READING...AND REVIEWING...if you leave a review that is...GOOD LUCK