Part 3: Journey Home

5 years later

It was a quiet Sunday afternoon, the weather was pleasant and Law was sitting out on the porch reading a book and enjoying a cold ice tea. Kid had gone into town earlier to pick up some supplies to repairs the damage that occurred during the major thunderstorm last week. Nothing major was damaged but Kid had to replace the back door and rebuild the little gazebo that was in the backyard. It was terrible really, Kid made that as an anniversary present and Law loved it. Sitting in the book down law carefully stood up from the rocking chair (another handmade gift from kid) and made his way inside, making yet another trip to the bathroom. With the way the kid was pressing against his bladder he was spending so much time in the bathroom that it was a wonder that he got anything done at all.

As he is washing his hands he heard the jingling bells hung about their horse Katerina's neck, telling Law that Kid had returned. Law exited the bathroom with just as Kid was putting some groceries on the table.

"Hey babe, you should it be on your feet. You should be resting."

"Yeah well when I have to peer have to pay site, you worry too much."

"And sometimes I think you don't worry enough." Kid said giving Law a quick kiss before going outside again.

"I thought you said he will only getting supplies for repair work." Law said, looking through the bags of groceries.

"I did."

"And what's with all the food? You got enough here to feed 10 people."

"I hope there will be enough, those guys sure can eat."

"What are you talking about? Who can eat?"

"Who do you think?" Came a voice for Dore before the Luffy was bounding in. "I know we had said dinner but I cannot wait to see Law and how big he is, you're huge! But still very attractive." Luffy said, enveloping Law had a great big hug.

"Thank you Mugiwara-ya, when did your wife? Where are the others?"

"Sometime last night. I wanted to find you guys sooner but it was so late that all the shops were closed three could ask anybody for directions. Not that I would but that's beside the point. Anyway the others are coming later tonight, Nami and Sanji are taking Jeremy sightseeing around town. Probably going to buy him some new clothes, three years old and the boys are growing as closed faster than we can get them."

"How is young Jeremy? In your letters you said that Nami-ya and black leg-ya were expecting again."

"Yep, Nami is really hoping for a girl this time. Says there's too much testosterone in the crew and did it desperately needs a woman's touch. I don't know about all that but what she needs is to finally accept Sanji's proposal."

"She still hasn't agreed to marry him."

"No, that's stubborn woman keeps saying that Bellemeire didn't need a man to help raise to kids and neither does she. Jeremy is already acting like his father, already proclaiming his love to every young leaving me. There are nine of us and he still manages to sneak away and trick some woman into thinking is an orphan so made hold them to her chest. I really hope Nami's next kid is a girl, I don't think I could handle another Sanji." Luffy said, taking a seat on the couch in the living room.

"Seems everyone has their hands full with that child. Has anything new happened since your last letter? You mentioned you had a big surprise for me."

"Yes I do, but I'll get to that later. Let me fill you in on what everyone's been doing. Ever since he learned the black spot mailing service, Usopp has been writing letters back home to Kaya. She's been working nonstop since she got her doctor's license but she always has time to visit the veggie boys, those are the kids who somehow not with.

You even had a girlfriend now, who knew right? Anyway it was up and Kaya have been growing closer with every letter, and he's been ending them with love Usopp and set up sincerely, but now he gets all nervous every time he gets a letter because the plans and asking her to marry him when he gets back so whenever she writes back he thinks that it's the white where she says she is a bill the same and they should remain friends. I know that will never happen, that girl loves Usopp just as much as he loved her. I didn't know any better I'd say she was already making wedding plans. Anyway, our lives have never been dull with everyone starting to form relationships and making plans and settling down it's been like drama essential. There's always something tragic happening." Luffy said, ducking his feet under him and getting comfortable.

Aside from Usopp's love life and Sanji and Nami's drama the others are beginning lives of their own. Robin a meta-science professor and the last island he visited it had enjoyed his company during next to visit. Same things were getting serious as the man had given Robin his address so they can keep in touch, even place a kiss on her cheek when they departed. Brooke was getting excited because it each day the pastor brought them closer the Cape and by the oceans and to where Laboon was waiting. After being gone for so many years work plan to limit the Cape with the Laboon after visiting the homes was the Straw Hats. They all planned a doing it that way. They stop at everyone's hometown, visiting old friend and introduced the new alliance before departing ways at wind mill village, Luffy's hometown. At least that's what they planned but they've been together so long it be difficult to say goodbye. Chopper did want to open up his own practice, treating humans and animals alike, and Franky said that he may be joining the galley-la company and following Tom- sans footsteps pretty and if fear produces of his own.

But they could very well do that anywhere. As for Zolo and Luffy, they had already started on the next part of their lives together.

"It's good to hear that everyone is doing so well and I look forward to seeing them all tonight. Now tell me what the big surprises." Law said, rubbing his stomach as his child gave a rather strong kick to his side.

"While it might not be as big as it applies as they make it sound that you and Nami on the only ones expecting a little one." Luffy said, placing his hand on the stomach.

"Are you saying what I think you're saying Mugiwara-ya?"

"Yep, I'm pregnant can you believe it? After trying for so long it's finally happening I'm completely terrified. I know that Zolo's going to make an amazing father and all make a great mother, but the way I live my life isn't exactly… Safe. Never really think before I do anything, I simply act on my instincts and that often gets me trouble. If they are found out I thought on the stairs, I was so excited. Everything is fine but I'm more cautious now, no more wanting off without thinking. No more fighting for me either, I may be able to withstand a lot because of my rubber body but that doesn't mean I'm willing to bet that everything inside we can too. I couldn't imagine doing something that could jeopardize life growing inside me, I could go on if I lost her, or him. It's far too early to tell but all of them either way, I just want them to get here safe and sound, you know?"

"Yeah, I know how you failed." Law said, the look of sadness creeping into his eyes.

"Oh Law, I'm so sorry. I didn't need to bring up such a horrible memory, I quite for hours when I learned what happened." Luffy said, scooting over and wrapping his arms around Laws shoulders.

"It's all right Mugiwara-ya, these things happen and I was a long time ago. I've made peace with that and have moved on."

"Well that shouldn't happen. Losing a child before they are even born is too terrible a thing. It breaks my heart just thinking about it. When I got your letter I didn't want to believe it, I thought it was some sick joke. I didn't want to think that life would be so cruel to you, but I saw the tears on the paper and I could feel your pain in every word you wrote and I knew it was true." Luffy said, recalling Law's terrible letter and of the tragedy is spoke of. It was three months after their departure at Luffy had learned how to use the black spot mail service and had immediately started using it to keep in contact with Law on their journey.

Things were going great, Kid and Law had made it safely to their new home and had started construction on the house. Each week Luffy would write a letter updating Law on their latest discovery discussing married life out at sea and with each replied back Law was getting bigger and bigger and complaining about the joys of pregnancy. When he wasn't complaining about back pain and surf be was talking about that nightmare that was living in a hotel. As much as he disliked what was going on he wouldn't change it for the world. One day when he went down to visit Kid at the oasis to see how he was doing and talk Kid into taking a break, the poor man was working nonstop to build the home as soon as possible so they could then. Law must've walked the path 100 times without trouble, you'd probably pocket with his eyes closed. The adjustment to the top of the hill where he could see Kid, low when he suddenly he felt a sharp pain in his abdomen which steadily grew as time passed.

Will but reached bottom the pain was to apply it leak that when it off as it was nothing. And then noticed the blood, there was so much blood. Kid had immediately rushed Law to the hospital where they found out that Law had a miscarriage. They are devastated, none more so than Law. He didn't leave his hotel room for months, thinking that it was his fault and that they didn't want him to have a family. If it weren't for Kid and Luffy's letters constantly trying to cheer him up, Law would have completely given up any chance at happiness.

Eventually Law had come to terms with his loss, realizing that there would be more complications with the male pregnancy and that he had done nothing wrong.

"While painful I know it was something that wasn't my fault. You could do everything right and still lose." Law said, wiping away a stray tear.

"Nobody's blaming you, everyone knows you would do anything to harm your child. Nobody blamed you, right? Because if Kid said it was your fault I'm gonna kick his ass so hard he will be able to sit for a year."

"I like to see you try Straw Hat. I can kick your ass without even breaking a sweat." Kid said, walking into the living room.

"As if. While it you've been playing house, I've been out fighting every day for the last five years. I can beat you with one arm tied behind my back and my eyes closed." Luffy said, getting up is standing up but if Kid.

"No, no fighting. We just talked about this Mugiwara-ya. You can't afford to be reckless in your condition." Law said, attempting to rise from his spot on the couch.

"What you mean 'condition'? Looks fine to me." Kid said, helping Law up.

"I mean that Mugiwara-ya is pregnant and should be avoiding stressful situations like fighting."

"Yeah, my bad. I told you I just act on my instincts. I just get so caught up in the moments that I forget, something I'm really trying to avoid doing." Luffy said rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

"You are gonna have to do more than try Straw Hat, Everything you do now affects more than you, it will directly affect your unborn child that anything happens it could very well mean the end of you." Kid said, remembering how devastated Law was after the loss of their child. Kid was worried that Law might have done something drastic like take his own life, luckily he managed to pull through his depression and after a couple of years wanted to try again.

Now most little over a month to go they both were being extra careful to make sure nothing happened. Kid wasn't sure if they would survive a something did.

"Alright alright, no more depressing thoughts. This is supposed to be a happy occasion. Letters are nice but they can't compare to actually interacting with someone. Tell me what it's like here, are the people friendly? The got any good meat? Have you explored the forest yet or do you just look at it from afar? Is everything ready for the baby? Oohh, can I see the baby's room?" Luffy rambled.

"Easy Mugiwara-ya, one question at a time. You really haven't changed since he met, still crazy as ever." Law chuckled.

"Not entirely true, I have mellowed out some. Married life really has changed me. I'll tell you all about it as you show me the baby's room." Luffy said, latching onto Law's arm.

"Well then, while you two catch up I'll be outside rebuilding that gazebo. If I'm lucky I should have it done by tonight." Kid said, placing a kiss to Law's cheek before heading outside.

"Don't push yourself, you still need to make dinner and I won't heavy sweating is the food."

"No need for that. He may be your guests but there was no way I was gonna make you cook. Besides, now that Nami's pregnant again Sanji is even stricter with our food, I don't think he'd let anyone besides him in the kitchen. Even if it wasn't his own. So you don't have to worry about a thing because Sanji will take care of it. Now about that baby's room."

X X X

" That meal was delicious. I almost look forward to puking it up." Luffy laughed, gently patting his full tummy. It wasn't as extended as usual but it was still pretty round. Since he learned that he was going to have a baby Luffy had cut down his eating habits, only consuming half of what he used to. He feared that eating until he was the size of a balloon wasn't good for the baby, even though chopper said that it should have any ill effects, Luffy still wasn't going to risk it.

"As usual black leg -ya, the meal was exceptional."

"Thank you Law, it's nice to hear that some people appreciate my food." Sanji said, beginning to clear away the dishes.

"Hey I appreciate your food I just don't think I have to say it after every meal. It's implied by my empty plates." Usopp said, getting up to help Sanji.

"Yeah curly brow, we don't need your ahead getting any bigger than it already is."

"What was that muscle for brains?!"

"You heard me shit cook!" Zolo yelled, getting and Sanji's face.

"Zolo would you please stop shouting? It's trying to give me a headache." Luffy said, rubbing his forehead. Immediately though stop shouting and reclaimed his seat by Luffy side, murmuring a quiet apology.

"Wow. I've never seen him stop arguing with the cook so fast. They didn't have to raise your voice or physically pull him away." Law said.

"Oh that's nothing. Once my symptoms started kicking in he became super attentive. He's they are rubbing my back every time I throw up, he's the first one to go out shopping whenever I get a craving, no matter how strange it is. And when I'm in a bad mood to make sure I'm left alone and nobody disturbs me, especially when I'm way down to rest. Franky learned that the hard way what happens when I am broken for my afternoon nap. It took him nearly a week to repair his arm. Anyway Zolo's been taking will good care of me, I complain about one thing and white away he goes to fix it. It's a little annoying sometimes but really suite an accident do this without him." Luffy said, leaning over and kissing Zolo's cheek.

"Well you know if there's anything I can do to make this easier for you you need only to ask." Zolo replied, wrapping his arms around Luffy employee him close.

"Whaaa! It's so beautiful! Every time I see you guys it warms my heart!" Franky cried, even though he insisted that he wasn't. after the dishes were cleaned and put away, Sanji made a pot of coffee and everyone settled into the living room.

"This is a lovely house Law-san, did you decorate it yourself?" Robin asked, sipping her coffee.

"No way, I don't have an eye for that sort of thing."

"Yeah if I let him decorate this whole place would be painted yellow and black." Kid laughed.

"At least it wouldn't look like something a vampire would live in. A black house covered in gargoyles is not a place where I want to raise our child." Law countered.

"Yeah, that looks great for a ship but not for a home. Needless to say we had someone from town decorate the whole house, except for the baby's room."

"And it's so cool! You have to see it Robin, everything in that room his hand done by them. I want my baby's room done just like that!" Luffy gushed.

The room was painted a light blue with fluffy white clouds along the top and ocean wave across the bottom. One wall even had an island painted on it, what island Luffy wasn't sure but it was beautiful. The crib was a work of art, carved perfectly into a galleon with every detail carved out. It looked almost ready to sail the high seas. Hanging above was a simple mobile consisting of different kinds of sea-birds that twirled and played soothing music and ocean sounds.

"That room is perfect and everything is hand-painted by Law and hand-crafted by Kid. It's so great that you guys can make these wonderful things for your child and I can barely draw a proper stick figure." Luffy said growing teary eyed. Damn those hormones, they were seriously annoying.

" Don't be upset, so you can't draw. That only means that you have a gift for something else." Usopp said.

"You're only saying that to make me feel better."

"Did it work?"

"A little, but I still can't stop crying." Luffy wailed, burying his face in the crook of Zolo's neck.

"Oh lord, we probably should be leaving. Once he gets going he won't stop until he falls asleep." Sanji said.

"You're right Sanji-kun. If we leave now we should be half-way back to our hotel room when the storm hits. If I'm right, which I usually am, it should start off as light rain before turning into a severe thunderstorm sometime around 1. Not too bad but I don't want to be out in the middle of it."

"Another storm? It won't be another whirl-wind will it? I'd hate it if the gazebo was destroyed again, not after all your hard work. Which I thank you for, it was really nice of you to help out in the repair work."

"It wasn't a problem, it was the least we could do. Anyway there shouldn't be any strong winds, just heavy rain as well as thunder and lighting. Nothing too bad."

"If that's the case why don't you all stay here? We have two guest room and the couch down here pulls out into a bed. I'd hate to see you rush off when you just got here and I'd hate if something happened to you in that storm." Law offered.

"Isn't that nice, I'd say being pregnant suits you. You're being so kind."

"Watch it Bone-ya or I'll slice you apart."

"Are you sure Law-san? We don't want to put you out." Robin said.

"Pleas it's no problem. I built the extra rooms in case our crews visited or if we had more kids but until then the rooms are empty. It'll be nice that someone gets some use of them. You can even put the horses in the stable, I'm sure Katerina could enjoy the company." Kid said.

"Sounds good to me, that way I won't have to wake Jeremy. If we're lucky he'll sleep right through the storm. Robin you can sleep with me and Jeremy, I'm sure Sanji-kun will be happy sleeping on the couch. Right Sanji-kun?"

"Aye Nami-san, altough I prefer to sleep next to you than these rogues." Sanji grumbled.

" Well it's not gonna happen. Anyway I'm going to check on Jeremy and then I'll probably hit the hay myself. If I'm awake then I'll never get any sleep so I really appreciate you letting us stay here."

"Don't mention it. This may very well be the last time we see each other, so let's make the most of it shall we?"

"Oh my God! I never thought of that! I was so excited to see everyone back home that it never crossed my mind that we'd be too far apart to see each other. Oh now I'm really upset, I really wanted to see our kids grow up together." Luffy cried, moving from Zolo's embrace to wrap his arms around Law and cry on his shoulder.

"Calm down Mugiwara-ya, we'll be able to visit from time to time so it's not like we'll never see each other again."

"But it's not the same!"

"I know it's not but it's better than not seeing each other at all."

"I guess that's true, and we can still write to each other. I expect lots of pictures with every letter."

"Of course and I expect the same from you."

"You got it!"

"Well since you're feeling better I'm gonna put Chopper to bed. I assume it's alright if we take the other room?" Zolo asked, picking up a slumbering Chopper. They hadn't been there very long and it wasn't exactly late but with the approaching storm as well as full belly's and a warm home everyone was feeling drowsy, even he was thinking of turning in himself.

"Of course, it's right across the hall from ours and the second biggest bedroom. I'm sure you three will find it quite comfortable. Why don't you show him where it is, that way you can make sure all the windows are closed upstairs." Law said, turning to Kid.

"Good idea, I should be getting to bed myself. Not that I don't enjoy your company but I have an early start at the shop tomorrow and after today I could use the extra hours of sleep." Kid said, giving Law a quick kiss before showing Zolo upstairs.

"I'm going to give Jimbei a call. Just want to make sure everything is super with the Sunny." Franky said, pulling out a den-den mushi and leaving the room.

"Is everyone leaving? We should be having a party, not falling asleep!" Luffy yelled, noticing that Brooke had fallen asleep too.

"Sorry Luffy, after the chaos of yesterday everyone's feeling worn out. I know I'm going to grab this opportunity to catch a good night sleep on actual bed and not worry about being attacked for once." Usopp said, stretching his arms above his head as he yawned.

"It wasn't even that bad, I think you are just exaggerating for effect."

"Of course you'd think that! You are sleep the whole time!"

"Whatever. If you want to go to bed that's fine, Sanji will keep Law and me company. Right Sanji?"

"Sorry Luffy, after I finished making preparations for breakfast going to bed too." Sanji said.

"Aww, you suck!" Luffy whined, sticking his tongue out.

"No need to ask so childish, you need to respect their wishes to leave them alone." Law said, patting Luffy's knee.

"If I respected their wishes I wouldn't have a pirate crew and have conquered the grand line."

"You got that right." Usopp said which had everyone laughing.

"Oh, ow."

"Are you okay Law?"

"Yeah, the baby just kicked."

"Really, can I feel? Nami wouldn't let me touch her stomach and you can't even tell the Luffy's pregnant. I hear it's kinda weird when you first feel the baby kick to I want to see for myself." Usopp said, scooting closer so he was kneeling in front of Law on the floor.

"Why not, I'm in a good mood tonight." Law said, taking Usopp's hand and placing it on his belly. For a moment or two nothing happened but then, ever so lightly, a little foot press against Usopp's palm before pulling back and delivery a powerful kick.

"Yikes! It's like he knew I wasn't you and didn't like that I was touching you. Doesn't that freak you out?"

"It did at first but now I take it as a sign that she is doing well and that comforts me."

"Awww, that's so sweet. I cannot wait until my stomach gets bigger so I could feel my baby kick. It's one thing to know that you're creating a life but to actually feel that life, it would be something amazing." Luffy said, closing his eyes and resting his head on Law's shoulder.

"Oi, you falling asleep Mugiwara-ya? I thought you wanted to party?"

"No fun if it's just us… You're comfy." Luffy mumbled a second before he fell asleep.

"He never changes." Law chuckled.

"No, no he doesn't."

Later that night

It was around 3 AM and the storm was in full swing when Law suddenly bolted up, a sharp pain in his back causing him to gasp. Law tried to steady his breathing and fight for the pain but it seemed that when one faded away another intense burst would follow moments later. Thinking about walking around my help, Law carefully pulled back the covers and swung his feet over the side of the bed. The moment you start from the bed before they gush of liquid flow down the back of his legs and splashed against the floor.

"Kid! Kid wake up!"

"Wha-what's going on? We under attack?"

"No, but something terrifying is."

"What are you talking about?"

"Well, either I just shat myself or my water broke and since I don't smell anything man said I'm guessing it's the latter." Law said, before hunching over as another contraction happened.

"But you are not due for another month."

"Well tell that to the kid trying to break out of my stomach. Oh God, this hurts so much!"

"Okay, okay hang in there! I'll call the doctor!" Kid said, jumping out of bed and throwing on a pair of sweatpants.

"He will make it here, with this rain the roads are flooded."

"What should I do then?" Kid asked, helping Law back into bed.

"Get Ton-"

"who?"

"Get the reindeer!" Law shouted. Not wasting another second, Kid bolted from the room and into the next not bothering with politeness are niceties.

"Oi reindeer! Wake up! We need you!" Kid yelled, shaking Chopper's shoulders.

"Why you shouting? It's too early for that shed." Zolo grumbled, opening his eye

"tell me about it, but that doesn't matter. I need the reindeer to come with me." Kid said, leaning down to grab Chopper's arm. The moment he touched Chopper's arm a slim arm shot out and a hand latched around Kid's throat and a firm grip.

"Usually I'd be okay with being woken up in the middle of the night but nowadays it really pisses me off, so there better be a really good reason why you are standing over me and shouting like a lunatic." Luffy said, slightly tightening his grip on Kid's throat.

"Law… Labor…" Kid choked out.

"These up Luffy, you're choking him."

"Guys what-Ahh!" Chopper screamed, jumping from his spot between Zolo Luffy.

"Finally awake, huh? Took ya long enough." Zolo said, sitting up.

"Need a reindeer… Law in… Labor."

"What?! Why didn't you say so!?" Luffy shouted, pushing Kid out of the way as he jumped out of bed and dashed across the hall.

"I'll grab my medical bag but I don't have all the proper tools to deliver a baby."

"You can… You can use Law's. Their down his office." Kid said rubbing his throat.

"Good, you can grab of those while I check on Law." Chopper said, running out of the room with Kid following shortly.

'Now that everyone's finally out I can get some sleep.' Zolo thought, laying back down.

" Zolo get your butt in here!" Luffy shouted, sounding just a tad bit angry. Hoping not to make Luffy angrier, Zolo that bother with a reply as he quickly made his way across the hall.

"Did you need something?"

"Yes, towels! Go get lots of towels, ago but the others. We could use a Robins help." Luffy said, before turning his attention to Law as another contraction wracked his body.

"I got the box a baby stuff, I didn't know what you need it so I just grabbed the whole thing." Kid said, walking in and setting the box of the foot of the bed.

"Know this is good, I should be able to deliver the baby without any prop."

"How exactly is that going to happen?"

"That depends, you either have to perform a C-section or Law will birth the baby naturally. Unfortunately we have to wait and see if his water breaks the next hour or so."

"Already happened." Law panted.

"Already? That was fast. Looks like you're part of the 10%." Chopper said, sliding on some gloves before he lifted the sheet covering Law's lower body.

"But you mean 10%?" Kid asked confused.

"He means that out of the man with devil fruit powers who can conceive, only 10% will have their body change to they could deliver vaginally." Robin said, walking in with a bowl of warm water with Zolo following shortly after with an armful of towels.

"I grabbed all of the oldest looking towels I could find. How are things in here?"

"Progressing faster than expected. I'm going to need everyone except for Robin to leave. As soon as I get everything set up going to have to start pushing Law. I hope you guys are ready to be parents." Chopper said, pulling out supplies in the box, while Robin started ushering Zolo and Kid out the door.

"You're going to be all right, Chopper's an excellent doctor. Just remember to breathe, okay?" Luffy said, patting Laws arm before turning to leave.

"Wait, don't go. I need you here with me, I can't do this by myself." Law said, grabbing Luffy's hand.

"Wouldn't you rather have Kid here with you?"

"No. He wouldn't be able to handle it. He passed out during the damn pregnancy video. Please stay with me." Law pleaded.

"Of course Allstate. What can I do to help?"

"You can support his back, Law I need you to scoot to the foot of the bed and put your feet in the stirrups." Chopper said morphing into his human mode.

"Why in the world do you have those?" Luffy asked, falling behind Law after Law got himself comfortable the best he could.

"I wanted to be prepared in case this sort of thing happened."

"It's a good thing too or this would be a lot more difficult. You are fully dilated now so when I say push you push as hard as you can until I say stop, okay?" Law nodded.

"Okay, ready and push!"

X X X

Kid was pacing up and down the hall, occasionally stopping to listen at the door. It's been 2 ½ hours since Law went into labor and Kid was starting to worry. He didn't know much about childbirth but he knew that once the water broke the birthing process would be over quickly. Since Law was part of the rare 10% they should be too much medical equipment that need to be used, all Chopper had to do was help Law through the process and catch the baby. By now Kid should be hearing the cries of his son or daughter and be watching Law tried to soothe those cries.

What if something went wrong? Like the baby could be in breach or the umbilical cord could be wrapped around the neck. Or worse yet, the baby didn't survive. No, know that could it be happening. Not when they've come this far, life could it be that cruel to them.

"Calm down Kid, there's no need to get so worked up. Law is in great hands." Zolo said, gently touching Kids shoulder.

"But it's been hours, we should have heard something by now."

"These things take time and the whole man giving birth is still very much unknown so we need to be patient. Everything will be fine, we just need to have faith."

"Faith huh? I'm not one who believes in a God and what it even think of praying, but ever since Law got pregnant that's all I've been doing. Praying that it would keep, praying that it was healthy, that Law and our child would be safe. Now I'm praying that I don't lose them."

"I understand completely. I myself to believe in such things but before every battle I pray that Luffy what be From harm and then again afterwords I said a prayer of thanks when all is well. I know Luffy could take care of himself and will now try to avoid a fight, but I still worry when I can't be there to protect him from the worst. I think my heart stop more time since learning of the praying that the then all the times I've been no death. I'm actually looking forward to hang up my sword and making a life on land."

"Yeah, it may not be as exhilarating as life in the sea but there's never a dull moment."

"You got that right. All will be well, you'll see." Zolo said, before returning to a spot against the wall. Kid continued his pacing, trying to take Zolo's words to heart. It helps calm his worries somewhat but he would it be completely calm until he saw Law. Turning abruptly as they heard the door open, Kid watched as Luffy walked out holding something wrapped in a pink blanket.

"Hey daddy, do you want to hold your little girl?" Luffy asked, pulling back the blanket. Nestled in the center was the most beautiful girl in the world, her bright red hair was plastered against lightly tanned skin and when she opened her eyes to stare up at Kid they were as blue as the sea.

"Are you sure? She so tiny, I might clash her."

"Don't hurt her, trust me." Luffy said, placing her in Kids arms. Kid immediately went as stiff as a board the second Luffy moved away, afraid to even brave in case he somehow harmed her.

"Don't be afraid, she is it may have the glass. Remember she inherited yours and Laws jeans shows she's one tough gal." Zolo said, gently brushing his fingers against her cheek. The out resounding giggle that action caused had everyone's hearts melting.

"She's so cute. Do you know what you're going to name her?" Nami asked.

"I have one in mind but I need to talk to Law about it."

"How is Law? He was in labor for quite a while." Sanji asked, shifting Jeremy in his arms.

"Resting, the delivery really exhausted him. Everything is fine though, he just need to take it easy for a few days. You can go in and see him if you'd like." Luffy said.

"No offense but I'm just going to wait until morning. But the new parents bonded whatever." Nami said, returning to her room. "Congratulations by the way. She really is a beautiful child."

"Thank you."

"While I'm not gonna wait. I'm gonna see Law and then I want to hold that cutie pie." Usopp said, walking into see Law.

"I wanted to see baby too." Jeremy said, sliding out of Sanji's arms and walking over to Kid who had knelt down to Jeremy could see.

"She's all wrinkly in chubby."

"That's how all babies look after their born. You look like that to accept you were a lot wrinkly and pink too." Sanji said.

"No way, I was way better looking than that. She still pretty though, she is a lady after all."

"Thank you Jeremy."

"You're welcome. I'm going back to bed now. Good night uncle Luffy, uncle Zolo." Jeremy said, walking into his room and snugly next to his mother.

"It looks like we're going to be up for a while, I'm going to put on some coffee. Oi Franky, Brooke, you come to."

"Why do you need us bro? It's just coffee."

"Because I know you. You're gonna start blubbering and get really loud and they don't need that right now so good going. You to skeleton man, don't need you creeping on the new baby."

" Aye Sanji-san, although when you say it like that you make it sound like I'm some sort of pervert." Brooke replied, following Sanji and Franky downstairs. Tucking his daughter close to his chest, Kid straightened up and walked into the bedroom where Law was laying and talking to Usopp. Law stopped when he noticed Kid entering the room and a tired, but happy, smile graced his features.

"She's beautiful, isn't she?"

"Gorgeous, just like you."

"That is so sweet, now hand over that baby so I can give her some lovin' Usopp said, holding out his arms. Simply raising a non-existing eyebrow, Kid carefully placed his daughter into Usopp's arms before crossing over to Law and climbing in beside him.

"How you doing baby?"

"I am okay, just tired. How about you? Feeling better now that you know that were both okay?"

"You say that like I was worried, I wasn't worried. I knew that you were in good hands and nothing would happen."

"Really now? So that wasn't you walking up and down the Hall?"

"Okay so I was a little worried, it was longer than I expected it would be."

"Actually it was over pretty quickly compared to some cases that can take up to 18 hours of labor. I was lucky that I was only in labor for a couple of hours. That was the worst kind of pain I felt in my entire life, and that includes the time when Vergo was squeezing my heart and the time Doflamingo cut off my arm." Law replied, leaning against Kids chest.

"That bad home."

"Oh yeah, but Tony-ya gave me some great pain medication so I'm going to be fine."

"At least you got pain meds, Chopper was all out when Nami had her baby and she had to deliver on the ship. That was painful for all of us." Usopp said, kissing the babies will fingers before placing her in Laws arms.

"Have you thought of a name for her?"

"Not really. I thought when I saw my child I would know their name then but now that I can finally hold her all the names I thought I like to just don't seem to fit." Law said.

"Well why don't we call her Lami, after your sister." Kid said.

" Lami? Lami… I think that's perfect. Lami was kind and gentle but strong enough to kick but when she needed to, just like I know our little girl will be. Our precious little Lami." Law softly said, tears coming to his eyes as he kissed his daughter's forehead. Feeling like they were intruding on a private moment, Luffy motion for Usopp to leave the room before quietly closing the door. Walking away from the door, Luffy wrapped his arms around Zolos waist and placed a kiss on his cheek.

"What was that for?" Zolo asked, draping an arm around Luffy's shoulders and pulling him closer.

"Don't know, just felt like it."

"Well you know I won't ever object to a kiss from you." Zolo replied, kissing Luffy on the lips. Losing himself in the kiss, Luffy didn't realize that Zolo had pinned him to the wall and had slid a hand under his my clothes until he felt Zolo's fingers in the back of his thigh.

"You naughty boy."

"You know, Choppers gonna be busy checking on Law and the baby so we got the room to ourselves." Zolo said, nibbling on Luffy's neck.

"Hmm, good point. Want to grab this opportunity and have some fun?"

"You read my mind." Zolo said, grabbing Luffy's hand and pulling him into the bedroom. After closing the door and locking it, Luffy wrapped his arms around Zolos neck and kissed him passionately. Zolo was as equally passionate and the he once again had Luffy pension the wall. Kissing along Luffy's neck, Zolo maneuvered Luffy out of this close, his hands trail along Luffy's nude body.

"You're getting really good at that. I didn't even notice that you undid the buttons." Luffy said, before letting out a gasp as Zolo ran his tongue over Luffy's nipple.

"Just one of the many talents I have, another being turning you into a writhing mass of pleasure as I slid an out of you until you scream my name." Zolo rumbled a Luffy fear as he slid his hand between Luffy's legs. Luffy's mind went blank as Zolos hand began to stroke him, calloused fingers expertly bringing him exquisite pleasure. Dimly he heard the baby cry from across the Hall and have bought him a moment of clarity.

"Don't you find it a little strange that were doing this right after Lami was born?"

"Some might find it strange but I don't. Can you feel it? All of the joy, love, and happiness in the air that one can only achieve when they have all they ever wanted in life. The one that wanted to share that feeling in such an intimate way with the one they love the most?"

"Indeed. Why don't you were up and get rid of those pesky close and show me exactly how you feel." Luffy said, snapping the waistband of Zolos pants. Giving a light net to Luffy's collar bone, Zolo stood back and slowly undid the laces to his pants and letting them got the floor before kicking them aside. Once they were out of the way, Luffy wrapped his leg around Zolo's waist and pulled Zolo against his body so they were touching and every deliciously intimate way possible.

Running his hands over Zolos chest, Luffy pulled Zolo even closer and melded their lips together the spine tickling kiss that left them both wanting more. Zolo grabs the back of Luffy's thighs, and and one swift motion lifted Luffy and slid inside, joining there to bodies into one. He kept his motion slow, unhurried, wanting to cherish every pleasant sound that Luffy made. It always pleased him that with the lightest touch he could have Luffy trembling and mewling with need.

Shifting his hold had Luffy arching into him as a low groan chloroform Luffy's throat. Web sweat glistening other skin breaths growing more rapid as pleasure filled cries filled the room, then fair now inside them grew until it interrupted a blazing white out of ecstasy. Taking a moment to catch his breath, Zolo gathered a boneless Luffy more securely in his arms and collapsed onto the bed.

"You always manage to leave me too worn-out to move." Luffy panted, laying partially on top of Zolo's heaving chest.

"Well good, that means I've done my job. What it wants you running off, the best part is when I get to hold you close and enjoy the afterglow."

"We still think like that when I'm all big and complaining about swollen ankles?"

"You'll still be the same beautiful man I fell in love with all those years ago."

"You sweet talker, and to think that he could've wasted all those precious years as a married pair if you never got the notion of stop being a stubborn ass and finally asked me to marry you."

"No need to be cheeky, I figured out before was too late." Zolo said, lightly swatting Luffy's behind and making him giggle.

"Anyway, all joking aside, did you ever imagine our lives turning out the way they are? That we'd be together and expecting a child of our very own?"

"Honestly? No, never in 1 million years would I have thought it possible for you to Luffy blockheads like me or that you'd be the one carrying our child. I'm just glad it's all true and not just a wonderful illusion." Zolo said, sliding an arm around Luffy's waist and turning so they laid other sides facing each other.

"I'm glad this is an illusion either, that after dreaming about this for so long it's finally happening. I just can't wait to see our little one, I'll bet they'll take after you and have a head full of green here." Luffy said, running his fingers through Zolos hair.

"I hope not, then they'll be teased relentlessly and tell they are old enough to defend themselves. No, it would be better that they take after you and have your ebony locks and blinding smile."

"Well however they look they'll be perfect because they'll be a part of you and me, and that's more than I could ever have hoped for." Luffy said Illini forward and kissing Zolo. As they lost themselves and each other again it was to the bottom of the future and all the possibilities and held for them.

Even years later as they watch their elder twin boys try to outdo each other with their swordsmanship and see their daughter chasing butterflies with Choppers little boy and Robins little girl they'd still be dreaming up ways the lives could turn out. And when a letter went out announcing the next winter being honored at the Captain's ball was none other than Law and Kids daughter Lami, but that was one possibility they could it wait to be part of.

END