One Piece
The Five Second Rule
Chapter Three: Pangala Island
For the past two days, Law has noticed a certain change in his crew's behavior. When it was time for a meal, it would be either Shachi or Penguin that brought the food down. And each time, they'd comment on how lovely Celine's cooking was, very cynical on their part. Though he had to admit, the food was better than before.
According to Celine, they should be arriving onto the next island any time today. The next island was supposedly inhabited by another group of villagers. Small towns occupy the first couple of islands all over the Grand Line, it's not until you get further in when you discover vacant islands that hide vast amounts of treasure and gold. The kind of islands that all avid pirates were expecting from the Grand Line.
"So, do you know anything about the next island?" Kane asked, glancing over at Celine who was staring intently out the window.
They were perched on top level, the observation deck. Celine had visited like she said she would, and was sat on the second seat by the controls.
"Nothing," she replied. "I've never been off Kalmado before. Though I hear from travellers it's just another old town."
"Doesn't sound too exciting," Kane mumbled. "We heard amazing stories about the Grand Line, islands with talking animals, and islands in the sky…"
"Yeah well, I only live here," she leaned back on her seat. "I can't do anything about it."
"I suppose not," Kane cracked a grin.
"Does your brother always sleep here?" Celine asked.
Kane glanced over to her briefly before looking back. Ryuu was sound asleep in a makeshift hammock towards the end of the room, the hammock was tied up to two pipes which were a little too close to each other causing the strings and fabric to shrink down. It looked more like a swing chair than a hammock, but amazingly enough Ryuu made do with it, sleeping soundly in the hybrid chair-bed.
"Yeah, he pulled that hammock out of nowhere and decided he was gonna sleep here," Kane sighed. "The guy's like a hermit, he doesn't leave the deck unless he needs the bathroom or when it's time to eat. If he had his way then I bet he'd get someone to bring up his meals as well."
"Yeah?" Celine leaned her head back and stared at the small bundle at the end of the room. "It doesn't look very comfortable…"
"Oh, trust me, it's not," Kane chuckled. "He offered to let me use it while he's working, my back hurt the next day. But Ryuu can sleep through anything."
"Did you two come from the same place the captain did?" she placed her feet on the dashboard.
"No," Kane eyed her warily. "Feet down."
Celine looked over and held his gaze daringly, unwilling to step down just yet. Kane's eyes narrowed and made it clear he wasn't going to say anymore unless his demand was complied. Celine slid her feet off grudgingly and Kane smiled, turning back to the steering wheel.
"We're all from North Blue though," he revealed. "Ryuu and I are from an island called Malvarma, we helped our dad build ships. One day a man with a talking polar bear arrived on the island on a little rowboat."
Celine smiled, knowing full well just who the said man was. It was hard to miss someone that travels with a talking animal.
"And?"
"Well he asked my dad if he would build him a pirate ship, but my dad was a real prude, told him no," Kane went on. "But then Ryuu came up to Law and showed him his plans for his submarine. My dad has always said no to Ryuu's submarine plans, said they were too far-stretched and we should stick with conventional ships, but Law agreed to it… so that's how we got to be members of the Heart Pirates."
"Well, it's a better story than mine," she chuckled. "Being chased off my own island by pirates who want me dead…"
"You're definitely a valued member," Kane smiled slightly. "Food's definitely gotten better."
"Is that seriously the only thing I'm acknowledged for?" Celine rolled her eyes, feet finding their way back onto the dashboard.
"Celine… put your-."
"You know Kane," Celine spoke up, cutting him off. "It's really nice up here, before getting on this submarine I've never actually seen the ocean underwater before."
"Yeah?" Kane glanced at her from the corner of his eye. "It must be terrible not being able to swim."
"It's not too bad," she sighed. "… Are we there yet?"
"Aren't you the one that grew up on the Grand Line?" Kane laughed.
"Yeah, but I've never been off the island," she reminded him.
Celine sat in silence as she observed the hundreds of fishes swimming outside the window, whilst Kane checked the log pose. She yawned as a school of colourful fish swam by. Though the deck was lit up rather well, the dark blue underwater tint was getting her drowsy.
"Hey Celine, don't fall asleep now," Kane said.
"And why not?" she muttered back.
"Cuz' we're here."
Celine snapped her eyes open, and as Kane said they were nearing an island.
"Everyone, we should be able to surface in a few short minutes," Kane spoke into a microphone. Then he turned to Celine and handed her the log pose "Here take this and give it to the captain."
"Why can't you do it?" she glowered.
"Why can't you?" he glanced back at her.
"… I never said I couldn't."
Celine rose from her seat and headed downstairs. The past days, she'd been able to successfully avoid her captain with the help of Shachi and Penguin who seemed determined to deliver the captain's meals every time. It didn't bother Celine too much as that meant she wouldn't have to see Law.
When she arrived on the first level, she saw that everyone had already assembled and were awaiting the captain. Celine took her place next to Jonah quickly and stared ahead ignoring the odd glances Shachi and Penguin were giving her.
"Where have you been all morning?" Jonah asked.
"I was up with Kane," Celine replied. "I haven't been up on the observation deck before, so I thought I should check it out. It's really nice up there."
"Yeah, I know what you mean," Jonah grinned. "We don't normally go up there though, because both Ryuu and Kane get really annoyed if we bother them."
"Huh, weird," she noted. "Where's Captain?"
"He should be on his way up," he shrugged back.
Ominous footsteps could be heard approaching up the stairs. Celine hadn't seen Law since their little dispute down at the med-bay, and she's been finding every excuse to avoid going down there. Not the most mature route of action but it's not like he's been ardent to talk to her either, in fact, he hasn't left the med-bay the whole time.
Law emerged from the dark stairwell, his hat on and sword propped over his shoulder. He eyed his crew with a lazy smile.
"Alright, so we've arrived on our second island in the infamous Grand Line," Law spoke up. "As usual, Shachi, Penguin and Bepo will help Jonah stock up on food. Miss Celine and I have our own shopping to do. "
Celine stared at him wide eyed. Just what kind of shopping did he have in mind? She gulped as she watched said the boys and bear head upstairs, leaving her behind with Law.
"Good afternoon, Miss Celine," Law acknowledged with a nod.
"Good afternoon, Captain Law," she nodded back, her address sounding bitter. "Here, Kane has asked me to hand this over to you."
She reached into her pocket and pulled out the log pose. Quickly she placed it onto her captain's open palm.
"Yes, I suppose we should also find out how long the pose will take to set while we're in town," Law strapped the pose around the sheath of his sword. "Shall we go?"
"Where exactly are we going?" Celine followed after Law.
"In town," he replied, as they walked up the dark staircase.
"But why am I going with you?" she frowned at the darkness.
"You don't remember?" he chuckled.
Celine almost groaned at his laughter. While she was struggling with each step, he's able to laugh, having no trouble at all.
'I suppose it is his ship…'
"Remember what?" she asked. When no reply came and the footsteps ceased, she grew anxious. "… Captain? Captain? Law? … Law, are you- oof!"
Celine rubbed her nose as she realized that she has walked into her captain's back… again, in practically the same circumstances.
"Now do you remember?" he voiced.
"Yes…" she mumbled, feeling rather embarrassed. "We have to get lights for the staircases…"
"Correct," he replied, pushing the hatch door open. "Our best bet would be to ask the town's shipwrights if they're willing to sell us the needed parts. Then Kane and Ryuu should be able to manage the rest."
"Right, got it Cap," she walked onto the deck.
Like she hoped, the sun was high in the sky, rejuvenating her from the slight feeling of cabin fever. Law stood by the edge of the deck, watching her stretch under the sun. The only thing on his mind was how hot she must have been under that cloak of hers.
"Miss Celine," Law cleared his throat. She snapped her attention to him immediately. "Shall we?"
"Of course," she quickly walked over and climbed off the submarine.
This island wasn't a lot different from Kalmado Island, they shared the same long beaches, scorching climate, and Celine was hoping they'd have a friendly town too.
Law hummed quietly as they walked along the beach. He was taller than her, and his legs longer therefore his strides were larger. This made it difficult for Celine to keep up with his pace, but he would slow down occasionally when she was drifting behind.
"Earlier," he glanced over at her, that smirk of his present. "You had called me by my name instead of captain."
"I apologize for that, Captain Law," she grumbled.
"I was joking," Law turned back to face the beach. "You take things much too seriously, Miss Celine."
"No, I don't," she trailed after him.
"And you're stubborn too."
Celine clicked her mouth shut followed Law quietly. There he goes again, being all presumptuous about her. What did he know about her? Probably just that she has some pitiful power and that she's not very bright. Well two can play it that game.
Law's obviously no prize either. He hides all that arrogance under a mask of politeness and clever words. Also, he's a weird guy that hangs around his medical bay all day, everyday, doing god knows what. Plus seeing his disregard for others during that fight outside the inn, he was probably a psychopath too. Not to mention he's got some strange tattoos…
Celine shook her head.
'Oh, I give up.'
"I still don't understand why you two are so keen on playing cupid," Jonah sighed.
"Why not?" Penguin replied.
"Yeah, we've never seen the captain take an interest in any girl before," Shachi said. "And don't tell me you didn't see those flirty eyes they were giving each other all night at the inn back on the other island."
"What's flirty?" Bepo asked.
"It just means the captain really likes Celine," Penguin replied.
"They were both drinking then," Jonah rolled his eyes. "So, I don't know, maybe they were drunk?"
Shachi and Penguin eyed the boy blankly then turned to each other.
"That's not it," they concluded together.
Jonah ignored the two as they finally arrived at the town. A sign read 'Welcome to Pangala Island'. The four looked around and spotted the grocery store easily. Bepo was once again asked to wait outside by Shachi, the polar bear slumped down on the ground and crossed his arms.
The trio stepped in and began picking out the needed ingredients. Jonah tried to concentrate on his task but found it difficult with the older members plotting more plans to get the captain together with the new crewmember.
"Guys, I really don't think we should be meddling with the captain's affairs," Jonah walked over.
"Can it Jo," Shachi shoved a box of apples towards Jonah. "Anything else we need?"
"Uh… no, we should be fine for the next two weeks," he replied, checking everything they've picked out. "I'll go pay and you two can bring the crates back with Bepo."
Jonah walked over to the counter and handed over the money. The young lady manning the cashier took the money with a smile.
"You're pirates aren't you?" she asked, sorting the change.
"That obvious?" Jonah chuckled as he received his change.
"When a new faces appears on the island, it's always either pirates or marines, and you boys don't look like marines," she replied.
"I guess not," he nodded, heading out the door. "One more thing, how long does the pose take to set?"
"Around three to four days," she said. "We have a nice inn that you could stay at."
"It's up to the captain," Jonah shrugged. "But thanks anyway."
The lady waved back and Jonah headed out the store, the three were already gone with the crates. Maybe he could take a small break around town before heading back, the captain should be busy at the moment anyway and he's already completed his job.
Jonah headed downtown to see what he could find. There were a lot more buildings and houses than there were on the last island, but that also meant there were more people. Jonah weaved through the crowds and sat down on a bench by the market.
"You look hot under there."
That voice, Jonah could recognize it anywhere. He turned around slowly and saw Captain Law with Celine. They were further away near a more crowded part of the market. They haven't noticed Jonah at all.
"What?" she looked up at him, questioning look on her face.
"Aren't you hot wearing that cloak?" Law rephrased.
"I thought we've already spoken about this," Celine replied, tugging on her cloak. "It's a necessity."
"Yes, but have you ever not thought that as long as you don't make contact with someone for over five seconds then you wouldn't harm them?" Law suggested.
"What if there's an accident?" she crossed her arms. "What if I were to fall unconscious and you have to carry me back? You wouldn't even be able to get out of the market."
"Do you really doubt me that much, Miss Celine?" Law cracked a smile. "Trust me, if one of my crewmembers were to be in danger, I'd do everything I can to get them back to safety."
"You sound so confident," she jeered, leaning in closer. "But can you really live up to your words?"
"As I said, I'll do everything I can," Law looked her in the eye.
"Fine," she sighed, pulling her cloak off and folding the fabric. "What you said earlier does make sense, and the chances of me falling unconscious are very unlikely."
"Exactly," he nodded. "Now that that's out of the way, where are the shipwrights located?"
"You're the one that suggested we check in the market, maybe we should-,"
Celine paused when she felt someone brush past her. Law eyed her expectantly when she stopped talking. Celine glanced back at the man that just walked past her. He looked completely fine while he carried on walking, not turning purple and his movements were normal. The man eventually disappeared into the crowd and Celine smiled.
"Sorry," she said as she turned back to Law. "I was saying maybe we should ask around."
Law agreed and the two walked further into the crowds. Jonah who has been watching intently the whole time, released his held breath and turned back around. Though he hated to admit it, he had to agree with Penguin and Shachi. Those two, no matter how they may interact, were perfect for one another.
Deciding that he better return to the submarine now, Jonah stood up and headed back to the beach. Maybe, just maybe, he'll join Penguin and Shachi on their quest to bring Captain Law and Celine together.
Later that night, Law and Celine came back. Kane and Ryuu were called down to the deck, where Law instructed them to head down to the shipwrights' factory to pick up the equipment. The brothers (with Ryuu still half asleep) headed down to the factory immediately to get the job done.
Celine and Law returned to the first level where rest of the crew was resting after carrying all those crates back. The first thing everyone noticed was Celine's cloak was off and her arms were bare. Second thing, her and the captain seemed to be on better terms.
Shachi and Penguin exchanged smug looks.
"Is everything stocked up?" Law asked.
"Yes, Captain," Jonah saluted.
"Good lad," Law smiled. "And it seems we'll have to stay on this island for a couple of days before the log pose is set. So for the time being, the rest crew gets shore leave while Kane and Ryuu works on the submarine."
"Alright!" Shachi cheered.
"Let's go find some cute girls!" Penguin headed for the stairwell.
"Though, I expect you all to behave while we're here," Law eyed the two with a smirk. "We don't need marines on our tail."
"Understood, Captain!"
The two ran up the stairs, dragging Jonah with them. Bepo who has been listening patiently up till this point, went back to sleep upon realizing nothing was needed from him. Law smiled and sat down next to Bepo.
"They're very spirited," Celine noted, sitting down next to him.
"I agree," Law placed his sword down. "Are you not going to enjoy the shore leave?"
"I'm pretty sure I'll enjoy the upcoming few days," she nodded back. "But right now, I'm a little worn out."
"Are you feeling unwell?"
"No, it's not that," she shook her head. "By the way, the men at the factory said the log pose would take about four days to set, right?"
"Yes," he untied the pose from his sword.
"Do you remember, back on Kalmado, I killed that pirate Zed?" Celine asked.
"I do," he played with the delicate instrument in his hands. Passing the glass sphere between his hands. "Does this have something to do why you joined my crew?"
"Well, yes," she nodded curtly. "Sera woke me up that afternoon and told me that there were pirates looking for me, for killing Zed… And by the way, Sera said it was your fault and she's going to beat you up the next time she sees you."
Law laughed.
Not a snide smirk or a quiet chuckle. He really laughed. Almost dropping the pose, he held the sword for support. Celine sat dumbfounded at her captain's sudden outburst.
"… Law?"
"Sorry," he recomposed himself. "Your sister is going to beat me up? I can't begin to describe how silly that sounds."
"That's what she said," Celine shrugged. "And you shouldn't laugh. Sera can get really scary when she's mad."
"If she gets as frightening as you, then I suppose I should be afraid," he smiled again.
"… I'm going to ignore that," Celine crossed her legs. "My point is, it only takes two days to reach this island from Kalmado, then the pirates that are after me should be here any day now."
"That's what your concerned over?" Law scoffed. "If Zed's friends are anything like Zed then we'll have very little problems. More importantly, was it alright to leave your family behind?"
"Sera said they were only interested in me, and that they wouldn't bother with them," Celine sighed, quietly doubting her older sister's words. "… If the pirates really try something, there are marines on the far side of the island, but I don't know… I hope they're alright."
"Hm," Law turned his attention back to the pose. "They're fine. You said it yourself, your sister's tough and I'm sure your brother can put up a good fight."
"Yeah, you're right," Celine uncrossed her legs with a smile. "What about you? Does your family live in North Blue?"
"I don't have much of a family to speak about," Law averted his gaze to her. "My parents passed early on, I don't remember them at all. I lived with my uncle for most of my childhood. He was the village's doctor, I learned from him. But he passed not long after I turned fifteen."
"Oh, I'm sorry," Celine dipped her head slightly.
"It's alright," he looked back down. "I was very indulged my doctor practice, plus I had Bepo to keep me company."
Celine didn't speak for a moment. How was she supposed to reply something like that? Apologize for asking again and try to move on?
"I must ask," Celine tried to suppress a smile. "Has Bepo always been able to speak?"
"Yes," Law nodded. "I found him abandoned as a cub outside the village."
"Bepo must be really thankful to you," Celine noted.
"Ah, yeah. I guess so," Law sighed, hiding his smile as he stood up. "Miss Celine, would you cook me something?"
"Oh right, of course," Celine watched Law pick his sword up as she stood up. She followed Law down the stairs. "Anything you want specifically?"
"No."
Law said nothing more when they reached the second level, he just carried on walking down. Celine chewed her bottom lip in frustration and walked towards the kitchen. The minute she thinks she's gotten through to Law, he ignores her again.
Arriving in the kitchen, Celine noticed that there was a pile of crates stacked messily in the corner. Celine heaved the individual crates off each other and unlocked them. First crate contained apples, the second crate contained apples, and the third crate also contained apples.
"Uh…"
What was she supposed to make with just apples? She then realized that this was all the doing of Jonah, Penguin and Shachi. They must have messed up somehow and bought three crates of apples. She'll have to deal with them later, right now she'll have to find some way to explain to Law why she can't make his dinner.
Taking a deep breath, Celine pushed the door to open. To her surprise, someone was already sat down at the table.
"That was quick," Law unfolded his arms.
"W-what are you doing here?" she demanded.
"I figured with the whole crew gone, I'll finally be able to eat in the dining hall in quiet," he replied. "Speaking of which, where is the food?"
"Give me a moment."
Celine scurried back into the kitchen and glanced around the whole room. The only kind of food she could see were the three giant crates of apples. Celine groaned and reached for an apple in the crate. She returned with the apple in hand and placed it down on the table. Law inspected the fruit then gave Celine a look, she just nodded and crossed her arms.
"Is this it?" he asked, reaching for the apple.
"There's more where that came from," Celine said. "Three more crates in fact."
"Three crates of apples?" Law sounded amused though he kept a straight face.
"Yeah," she sighed, taking her seat across from him. "I'm sorry, but there's nothing left in the kitchen."
"It's not your mistake," he shook his head. "Shall we go out then?"
"What do you have on mind?" she smiled.
"I'm sure we'll find someplace to eat," Law stood up and placed the apple in his pocket. "If we're lucky we might bump into those four. They've got some explaining to do."
XoXo
Celine sat nervously as she waited for Law to return. She had to admit, this inn gets a lot more business then theirs did back on Kalmado. The place was full of people, both local villagers and pirates alike. The waitress had placed them on a table far back, and Law has gone to speak the bartender.
They ran into Ryuu and Kane and their way back with the parts. Law had instructed them to come to the inn after they've dropped the parts off, but they're really taking their time. She really wished she brought her cloak with her, wearing just a shirt and trousers with her gloves made her feel rather bare. Sitting up from her seat, she glanced around and saw Law by the counter still talking to the bartender. What could he possibly be talking about? Seriously, he asked her to come to the inn and now he's off talking to some stranger.
"Hey doll."
Celine shook at the sound of the gruff voice. Of course this would happen. At a place like this, with slobbery men everywhere, it was almost inevitable. Celine turned around and looked over her shoulder. A group of men on the next table were watching her, but they looked like normal villagers though.
"Can I help you?" she forced a smile.
"We were hoping you'd join us for drinks," the blond man asked. "All friendly, of course."
"I'm sorry, but I'm here with my captain," Celine replied sheepishly. "And the rest my crew should be here soon."
"Aw come on," another man grinned. "I'm sure they can spare you for a few minutes."
When Celine didn't reply, the man placed a large hand on her arm. Celine jolted and tried to pull her arm free.
'One.'
"Please, let go," Celine shook her head.
The man's gripe did not falter. Celine turned to the counter and looked for any signs of Law. Both the bartender and Law were gone.
'Two.'
'Where the hell are you, Law?'
Celine used her free hand to pick at the man's fingers, attempting to pry them off desperately. It was useless, her strength could not even compare to his.
'Three.'
"Hey, what's wrong? You don't look so good doll."
Oh the irony.
She clenched her teeth as she tugged her arm. The grip around her arm only grew tighter. Just where could Law be at a time like this? Celine closed her eyes as she counted the fourth number.
"Hey, you got a death wish or something?"
Celine looked up and saw Kane and Ryuu towering over the group of men. They both looked tired and sweaty, they must have done some work before coming over. Ryuu had his hair hidden under a red bandana and his jumpsuit unzipped until his waist, and the sleeves tied around his waist. Wearing only a single wife-beater, he looked intimidating, even with that sloppy smile. Kane reached forward and grabbed the man's wrist. He immediately flinched away and let go of Celine.
"You don't want to go messing with Celine," Ryuu grinned. "You hold her too long and she'll kill ya."
"W-what?" the man snatched his hand back.
"She's got magic fingers," Ryuu waved his fingers out in front of him.
The men stared back at him skeptically.
"Look, if you don't want to die, then I suggest you scram," Kane nodded towards the door.
The men took the advice and scampered out of the inn immediately. Only when they were stood up did Celine realize how tall the brothers were, both towered the men one head.
"Jeez, Celine," Kane sighed as he sat down. "We can't take our eyes off you for more than a moment."
"You think I asked to be bothered by those guys?" Celine scoffed. "It's all Law's fault anyway. He left me alone and then vanished."
"Does it hurt?" Ryuu asked, poking her sore arm.
"Don't do that!" Celine smacked his hand away. "Aren't you scared?"
Ryuu shrugged it off casually and he sat down next to his brother. The waitress walked by and took the boys' orders. The waitress then turned to Celine and gave a tedious sigh.
"And you?"
"Sake's fine, please."
The waitress nodded and headed back to the kitchen. Ryuu leaned back on his seat and stretched his arms out.
"Law sure put us through hell today," he yawned. "I'm glad we're not moving tonight."
"Was it a lot of work?" she asked.
"Not really, but I did fall over trying to attach the lights onto the ceiling," Ryuu replied, pulling off the bandana and shoving it into his pocket. "It was really dark in there you see, I sort of lost my balance."
"And who do you think you fell on, jackass?" Kane grumbled. "My backs going to hurt for the next few days."
The brothers exchanged square looks in silence. Celine watched them quietly, unsure of what to say. It was kind of her fault for asking Law to have the lights installed, but it's not like she meant for the two to get so worked up over it.
After a couple more moments of silence between the trio, Law returned to the inn with Shachi, Penguin, Jonah and Bepo in a tow. Law sat back down at the table where as the four sat on the table behind Celine, the one that has just been cleared out.
"Where were you?" Celine hissed.
"I had some business in the village," Law replied. "I also found those four wandering about."
The waitress then returned to their table with the brothers' food and Celine's sake, Law murmured a quick word to her before directing her to the other table.
"Are you not eating, Miss Celine?" Law watched her pour the sake.
"I lost my appetite," she replied. "I almost killed someone again."
"Seriously?" Law bit back a smile. "I was gone five minutes."
"You should have seen the guy, Cap," Ryuu smirked. "If he held her a moment longer, he would have started turning purple."
"I take it you two intervened?" Law turned to Kane, who nodded back. "Good, we don't need any unwanted attention."
The Heart Pirates turned their heads to the front of the inn when they noticed things have quieted down. A middle-aged man walked towards the dusty piano that sat in a corner. He tried out a few keys before placing his full hand on the keyboard. Not long later, a festive melody filled the room. People in the room began getting up to move to the front to dance to the music. Both Shachi and Penguin stood up to go ask a group of girls if they'd like to dance, both agreed immediately.
Celine watched a young girl approach their table, she held her hands behind her back and offered a shy smile towards Ryuu.
"Would you like to dance?" she asked, her voice rasp.
"I have a stomachache," Ryuu lied while pointing back at Kane. "But my brother would like to."
Ryuu turned to give his brother a complacent look. Kane stood up with a quiet sigh and escorted the girl back to the dance floor. The night went on with Celine, Law and Ryuu rejecting every person that came up to them. Though for Celine, it was for an entirely different reason. It wasn't that she didn't want to, but it'd be difficult to avoid skin contact while dancing. And as Law had said, they don't need any unwanted attention.
"Cap, why don't you ask Celine to dance?" Ryuu glanced over at Law.
"I'm fine where I am," Law lifted his sake cup.
Celine glared at the capped man, resisting every idea to kick him under the table. Turning back to Ryuu, she noticed that he was smiling at her in a very strange way.
"Why don't we dance?" he asked. "I promise to be careful."
He held out a hand and waited for her. Mentally, she weighed out the scenarios. If it were with someone who knew about her powers, they wouldn't purposely try to get themselves killed by risking to touch her. Accidentally bumping into someone shouldn't be a problem either with how upbeat the people are moving.
Celine stared at Ryuu's hand and quickly glanced over at Law, he gave her a passive look and as if he was waiting for her to move. Celine took his hand with her gloved one and he guided her onto the dance floor.
The remaining Heart Pirates, Jonah and Bepo, joined their captain at his table. Law gave them both civil smiles and returned to watching everyone else dance.
"Why aren't you up there, Captain?" Jonah asked, with the help of sake giving him the courage to speak Law.
"I could ask you the same question," Law smiled slightly. "A young man such as yourself should have no problem finding a partner."
"I'm pretty picky with girls," Jonah shrugged. "I don't see anyone I'm interested in."
"Hm…" Law reached over for Celine's flask of sake, after noticing that he was out.
"What about you, Captain?" Jonah took a sip from his cup. "See anyone you take a fancy to?"
"I might," Law replied. "But like you, I'm picky too."
"Are you drunk, Captain?" the polar bear spoke up.
"I'm getting there, Bepo," Law poured another cup. "Sake, Jonah?"
"Yes," the young boy nodded back.
"Now that you're drunk, are you going to make flirty eyes with Celine again?" Bepo asked.
"Flirty what?" Law turned to the bear.
"Eyes," Bepo said.
"No," Law made a face. "I'll be leaving now."
Law stood up and turned towards the door. He could really use a bath and some rest right now.
"Dining and dashing?"
Law turned back and wishing he hadn't, the pounding in his head grew distinct. Celine was stood in front of him, panting slightly, face very rosy. Behind her Ryuu was walking back to the table, paying no attention to Law.
"Please, Miss Celine," Law smiled. "Do you think a man of my stature would dine and dash?"
"Well no matter how polite you may act, you are still a pirate," she countered with a smile. "Just wanted a heads up if you were going to run off and leave us with the bill."
"… I've taken care of it earlier," Law replied, turning towards the door again. "I'm going to head back."
"Are you going to be alright?" she followed him, placing a hand on his back. "Do you want me to come with?"
"No," he brushed her off.
Celine mouthed a quiet oh, and headed back to the inn. Law watched her go in silence and sighed. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out the apple from earlier. It's been a long day, and if he wants to get up on time tomorrow then he'll have to go back now. Law wondered if having the new crewmember around was really worth all the trouble. Sure, she cooks well and possesses a fascinating power, but now he's going to have to deal with those pirates because of her.
Law smiled and took a bite from the fruit.
It was definitely worth the trouble.
XoXo
"Is the captain alright?" Ryuu asked when Celine returned.
"Yeah," she replied unsurely. "I think he's just a little tired."
"Tired like Jonah is?" Ryuu pointed at the young boy speaking gibberish to poor Bepo who looked a little alarmed.
"Uh no," Celine laughed. "Jo is way out of his mind."
"What?" Jonah perked up after hearing his name.
"We were just saying you should probably head back," Celine grinned. "Come on, I'll help you."
The words didn't reach Jonah as he just continued to stare blankly at the two. Celine rolled her eyes and stood up. Thank goodness that the whole Heart Pirates crew wore jumpsuits, if Jonah were wearing something other then Celine might have had some troubles holding onto him.
Celine slung Jonah's arm over her shoulder and lifted him off the chair. Taking a step forward, the weight of the boy made her stumble backwards.
"You're not very strong are you?" Ryuu sighed, walking over.
Ryuu took Jonah's other arm and slung it around his neck. Celine immediately felt the boy's weight lighten off her shoulder.
"What gave it away?" Celine chuckled.
Ryuu smiled then turned to Bepo.
"When my brother comes back tell him that we're heading back with Jonah first."
"Got it," Bepo nodded.
Celine felt rather useless once they began walking. It was Ryuu supporting most of Jonah, and his arm just felt like deadweight around Celine's shoulder. Celine almost grumbled when she realized how much stronger Ryuu was compared to her, or maybe it was just the big difference in their height.
"Are you boys always like this?" Celine asked.
"Boys?" Ryuu repeated, glancing over at her. "The whole crew is older than you… well apart from Bepo and Jo here."
"What?" Celine eyed him. "No way, what about Shachi and Penguin?"
"You're only eighteen," Ryuu mused. "They're both older."
"Who told you that?" she huffed, turning away.
"Your sister did," he replied. "Back on the other island, she threatened us all, said you were too young for any of us."
"Oh god," Celine shook her head. "And for your information, I turn nineteen in a few weeks."
"Hey, it's nothing to get mad about," Ryuu smirked. "I'm just telling you what your sister said."
"Did she embarrass me any further by saying more?" she looked his way.
"No further embarrassing was done," he replied.
"There better not have been."
XoXo
"Thanks for starting on the lights," Celine said as they walked down the corridor of the second level. "It would have been pretty dangerous carrying someone down those stairs in the dark."
"Only you'd have trouble over something like that," Ryuu jibed back as they entered the crew quarters.
"Shut up."
Celine watched as Ryuu tossed Jonah over his shoulder and onto the top of a bunk bed. He landed onto the mattress with a loud thud, his leg was dangled off the side and Ryuu punched the leg onto the bed. Celine wondered if Ryuu's doing more harm than good. The boy spluttered a few unheard words before falling back into slumber.
"Is it alright to just leave him like that?"
Ryuu evaluated his handiwork in silence then shrugged back candidly. Without another word, he headed back out the room. Celine gave Jonah's limp body another quick glance before running after Ryuu.
"I'm not too worried about him," Ryuu said when Celine followed.
"You know, sometimes I think you're not worried about anything," Celine sighed, shaking her head.
"Isn't that a good thing?" he glanced back at her.
"I suppose," she nodded slowly. "But are you? Really not worried about anything?"
"Well I guess I am worried about what we're going to eat from now on," Ryuu replied after thinking over a bit. "I don't know how long I'm going to survive on just apples."
'Boys… all they think about is food.'
"… I see," Celine forced an awkward chuckle.
"You don't sound too impressed."
"Well normal people have normal worries," she replied.
"Are you saying I'm not normal?" he stopped in his tracks and turned to face her.
"… No, that's not it," she shook her head. "You're just a little… aloof."
Ryuu stared back at her for the longest time, Celine could feel a sweat drop roll down her cheek. He didn't look either upset or angry, in fact, he wore the same blank expression as usual.
"I don't even know the meaning of that word," Ryuu finally said. "Is that bad?"
'I got worried over nothing.'
Celine rubbed her forehead with a short chortle.
"It just means you're different from the others," she quickly replied.
"What?" that didn't help him understand any better.
"Take it however you like," Celine said, using his line from before.
Ryuu gave it another moment's thought before giving up with a yawn. He just turned back around and continued walking down the corridor.
"Night Celine," Ryuu waved over his shoulder.
"Goodnight."
Celine watched him disappear down the hall and took a deep breath. She can now officially add Ryuu to the list of people she'll never understand. Just like Law, he manages to baffle her every single time they speak. Or maybe every member of the Heart Pirates is just secretly weird. They've got Law, Ryuu, Bepo (the talking polar bear, that automatically counts him as weird), Shachi and Penguin have been acting strangely as well, so that's already five out of seven members not including her. She gambles that if she spoke to Kane more, she'll also realize that there's something wrong with him too.
She stopped in front of her door and pushed the door open. Celine collapsed on her bed and pulled the covers over herself. She turned to her left and reached for the knob by the bed. Like Ryuu had said, there was a knob somewhere in the room to dim the lights. It had taken her a while, but when she did find it, she felt like an idiot. But that also got her to question: just who did dim the lights for her on the first night? It could have been virtually anyone. Though she can probably cross Ryuu off the list though as he would have been steering the submarine then. So that left… everyone else.
Celine groaned and rolled over.
Forget it.
Right now she should just focus on getting some sleep.
Dundundunn… sudden development between Celine and Ryuu. I wrote close to 7k for this chapter, that's the most I've ever written. Feeling a little proud of myself :D
Thank you to everyone who favorited and alerted this story! It means a lot to me!
Please leave a review! I really appreciate it! :)
I've decided to answer my reviews per chapter at the end as it's easier for me to keep track instead of PMing.
Replies:
one piece is the best anime3 – Sorry! I didn't see your review until after I uploaded chapter 1 :P Oh my god, please don't die! Haha. Thanks for your review and I hope you enjoyed this chapter :D
Guest – Will do! And thank you! :)
Icy-Blood-Lily – Ahh, I'm sorry! I just meant that it didn't let me PM you :P I hope you enjoyed this chapter! Sorry again!
the everchanging – Hehe, I'm going to leave it to you to guess :P Yeah, I'm guessing the three of them are going to spend more time together scheming in the upcoming chapters xD Thanks for your review! :D
CountessDiscordia – Wait, buys someone? Seriously? xD Thank you! I'm glad you think so! I've had the idea of Celine for a while but didn't know who to pair her up with, and then I thought: who other than my favorite sadistic doctor/captain? Thank you so much for reviewing, I saw it earlier today and it really helped me finish this chapter up :)
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