"Hey, Zoro. What's with that gold band? The one on the hilt of that sword, with the swirly engraving. Does it mean something?" Nami's eyes couldn't help but be drawn to the glimmering ornament as Zoro propped his swords against the railing. Nami's eyes were fixated on the dazzling adornment as Zoro propped his swords against the railing. The way it shimmered under the sunlight... It had to be worth a fortune.
"Why do you wanna know?" Zoro's grip on the hilt tightened just as he was about to let go, his fingers gently tracing the delicate trinket nestled at the fuchi of his Wado Ichimonji.
"Can't a girl be curious without having any sneaky plans?" Nami asked innocently.
"Maybe some girls can, but not you."
"Hey! What is that supposed to mean?!"
"It's not worth anything, if you're thinking of swiping it," The swordsman's ear twitched. He could almost hear the shrill retort of a certain woman from the other side of the New World.
Nami stuttered, the thought of taking it only fleeting in her mind. "It's not like that! I just knew someone who had one! They said it was a sign of their marriage or something. I just wanted to know why you got one!"
"Why bother me if you already know what it is?" Zoro retorted in his typical gruff manner, his voice laced with a hint of annoyance.
Chapter One: Hey Zoro
The humid sea air caressed Nami's skin as she leaned against the Thousand Sunny, her muscles relaxing. What had started as a passing curiosity had now ensnared her in the suffocating grip of intrigue.
She should have left it alone. It had seemed insignificant at first, but now it loomed before her as an enigma demanding resolution. Zoro couldn't possibly have meant that the gold band signified marriage.
Maybe it was sort of like a that—but a symbol related to his swordsmanship, or perhaps it held no particular meaning and she had simply given him an opportunity to tease her. Nami slammed the door shut with more force than intended, her frustration evident.
"My sweet beautiful Nami! I hope that pesky door didn't hurt your delicate fingers!" Sanji swooned as she entered the kitchen, his eyes fixed on her radiant face. But then he paused, noticing her troubled expression. "My sweet, why do you look so upset?"
"Oh, it's nothing really. I tried to ask Zoro about something on his swords and he blew me off."
"Dumbass Moss Head! Don't you dare disrespect my sweet, kindhearted Nami like some common street trash!" Sanji's protective nature flared, and the navigator gazed towards the now-empty mess hall, her shoulders slumping.
Sanji's feet carried him with fiery determination as he raced to defend his love. The last flicker of joy in his heart extinguished when he caught sight of the swordsman peacefully dozing at the front of the ship.
Zoro, his eyes still closed, reveled in the serene moment, savoring the warmth of the sun and the gentle caress of the breeze. However, his tranquility was abruptly shattered as he swiftly deflected Sanji's unwelcome boot. An exasperated sigh escaped his lips. "What the hell are you ranting about now?"
Sanji's expression twisted with righteous anger, his brows furrowing as he confronted Zoro head-on. "How dare you dismiss the innocent curiosity of a beautiful woman, you lousy marimo!"
Zoro's confusion was evident, his brow furrowing in response. "What are you even talking about?"
With unwavering determination, Sanji continued to defend Nami's honor. "Nami asked you a question! Just answer it!"
Zoro's gaze hardened; his conviction unyielding. "It's none of her business, okay?"
"I won't rest until justice has been served for my delicate Nami! SO, FESS UP, JACKASS!"
"Are you going to let it go or keep yelling like a moron!?"
"Who are you calling a moron, metal for brains?"
"Sanji, give it a rest. There's no way it's a wedding band. It must just be decoration." Sanji, taken aback by Nami's announcement, paused in surprise. Zoro seized the opportunity to push him away and straighten himself against the railing, his determination shining through.
The men's arguing was nothing new, but this detail caught the attention of a few other crew members, who inched closer to hear the unfolding conversation.
"What's that supposed to mean, witch woman?! It IS a wedding band!" Zoro retorted, causing Sanji to be momentarily stunned.
Sanji couldn't believe his ears as Nami's words hung in the air. He was taken aback, his surprise evident on his face. Zoro, seizing the moment, effortlessly pushed him aside and leaned casually against the railing, his gaze fixed on Sanji.
The heated argument between the two Straw Hat crewmates had piqued the curiosity of their fellow pirates. One by one, crew members crept closer, their ears pricked, eager to catch every word.
"What's that supposed to mean, witch woman?! It IS a wedding band!" Zoro's retort cut through the air, his tone sharp and defiant.
Sanji, still reeling from the revelation, launched an accusation in disbelief. "Did you steal that from some poor dead man? I knew you were a classless brute, but that's just cold-hearted."
The first mate flew to his feet, fueled by an undeniable surge of determination. "NO! It's mine, you idiot!"
Sanji refused to back down, his incredulity evident in his voice. "No way! Are you seriously trying to tell us that you're married? Don't insult me, you fucking oaf! That's the most outrageous load of crap I've ever heard!"
Eager to deliver another kick, Sanji found his attack thwarted once again by the hilt of Zoro's sword. Zoro, now leaning even closer to Sanji's shoe, radiated an unwavering resolve. "Do you wanna fight?! And let me make it clear—I'm not hiding anything! It's you who doesn't believe me!"
"What's going on?" Usopp asked Chopper as they sat nearby fishing over the railing of the thousand sunny.
"I think Sanji accused Zoro of lying, but that doesn't really seem like something he'd do." Chopper looked apprehensively in the direction of the fight.
Usopp nodded in agreement, "You're right. He's not very creative… or smart."
"Hey!" Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by a sudden shout that sent shivers down their spines.
"You're trying to make us believe that YOU, of all people, are married?" Sanji exclaimed, his frustration reaching its peak. He shifted his weight onto his foot, preparing to dismiss the absurdity. "To a woman? Do you even know what to do with a woman?"
Zoro, unfazed by Sanji's incredulity, shot back with unwavering confidence. "Apparently, I know better than you, you pervert bastard!"
"Zoro... is... Ma...Ma…Ma-Married?!" Chopper and Usopp's stomachs returned to their rightful places only to continue straight into their throats. A tall skeletal man peered over their ghostly faces.
"Oh my! A secret romance! It warms my cold, dead heart!" Brooke laughed. "Or it would if I had one! Yohohoho!"
"If she managed to catch Zoro's attention… Sh-shh-she must be a monster!" A sense of dread washed over Usopp. His heart raced, and a dark cloud of imagination descended upon him. In his mind's eye, he pictured a towering, muscular woman, with broad shoulders and a menacing aura. She wielded a large weight in one hand and a battle axe in the other, ready to unleash her fury.
Chopper, unable to escape the wild fantasies, felt his knees buckle under the weight of his vivid imagination. A sinister smile adorned the face of his imagined femme fatale—a tall and alluring figure with long limbs, brandishing a tight whip.
"I bet she's a super badass swords-babe and this shmuck couldn't resist her bouncing, passionate bosom. Super!" Frankie entered the conversation as he turned the corner, his super Franky hearing allowing him to eavesdrop from the engine room.
Sanji, realizing they were going around in circles, decided to take a moment to clear his thoughts. He stopped and lit a cigarette, trying to regain his composure. But the mounting frustration pushed him to the brink. Forget about calming himself down—he was ready to strike again. With his foot poised for another attack, he questioned Zoro with a mix of concern and accusation. "If you are married, why isn't she with you? Did you abandon a beautiful maiden somewhere, all alone?"
As Sanji prepared to deliver his next blow, his leg was caught once again by the hilt of Zoro's sword, frustratingly blocking his intended strike. The swordsman's annoyance was palpable, and it seemed there would be no easy resolution to the argument.
A small, timid tug at his shirt drew Zoro's attention to Chopper, whose eyes glistened with worry. "She didn't die, did she?"
The innocent question reverberated through the air, causing Zoro to screech involuntarily in response. "YOU LET A BEAUTIFUL MAIDEN DIE!?"
Startled by the outburst, Zoro quickly regained his composure. His mouth closed for a moment before he firmly stated, "She isn't dead, and I didn't abandon her."
The suspense lingered in the air as everyone turned to Zoro, awaiting an explanation. His words hung for a moment before he finally continued, his voice tinged with a hint of defiance. "...And she is not a maiden."
Robin, the ship's archaeologist, observed the unfolding scene with a serene yet inquisitive expression. She approached the group, her chuckle implying that she had uncovered a hidden secret. "Then what, pray tell, is she?"
Zoro looked away with an annoyed, blush tinted expression, "A manipulative harlot."
"Allow me to shed some light on the matter. Zoro's gold band is known as a menuki."
All eyes turned to Robin, eager for an explanation. She continued, her voice smooth and measured. "A menuki is a decorative ornament, traditionally used by Samurai to enhance grip and balance. It is often made of precious materials, such as gold, and can feature intricate engravings or symbols."
Her words resonated with a sense of intrigue and understanding, captivating the crew's attention. Robin paused for a moment; her gaze fixed on Zoro's sword. "In Zoro's case, the menuki serves not only as a decorative element but also as a symbol of personal significance."
Nami's brows furrowed, "What do you mean?"
With a small, knowing smile, Robin leaned in, her voice lowering slightly. "You see, Nami, a menuki can hold deep personal meaning for a swordsman. It can represent a connection to a significant person or event in their life. Perhaps it serves as a constant reminder of a mentor's teachings, a cherished memory, or even a vow of commitment."
Zoro's grip on his sword tightened, his gaze fixed on the golden band. The weight of Robin's words sank in, stirring a mix of emotions within the surrounding crew.
Robin continued with gentle encouragement. "Our betrothed First Mate's menuki, adorned with its particular engraving, holds a story known only to him. It is a tangible testament to his journey, his growth, and perhaps a bond he holds dear?"
As the crew absorbed Robin's words, a newfound appreciation for Zoro's enigmatic gold band blossomed. Though it didn't seem to satiate anyone's curiosity.
Robin, known for her astute observations and penchant for uncovering the hidden truths of her crewmates, delved deep into her research during her time with the Revolutionaries. She meticulously combed through records, searching Zoro's bounty hunting past. Yet, her findings yielded no evidence to support such claims as an unknown marriage.
Zoro's childhood rival, a formidable female warrior, had long since passed away. During those same two years- Zoro dedicated himself to relentless training under the tutelage of the legendary swordsman, Hawk Eye Mihawk. It seemed unlikely that their moss-headed friend had entertained any romantic entanglements during his arduous journey.
As the crew waited in suspense, their curiosity growing, Chopper couldn't contain his infatuation and asked with stars in his eyes, "What's her name?"
Usopp chimed in, his imagination running wild, "Yeah! What does she look like?"
Nami, always quick to spot a potential opportunity, jumped in, "Is she rich?"
Sensing the collective eagerness to unravel the truth, Robin stepped forward, her voice dripping with intrigue. "Please, Zoro, do tell us more. When did this marriage happen?"
Zoro slumped, seemingly defeated, before taking a deep breath.
Usopp, caught up in the web of his own overactive imagination, stumbled over his words, blurting out, "Zoro just said he was married!"
Luffy's eyes widened in disbelief. "Really?!"
Robin, thoroughly amused by the unfolding drama, couldn't resist teasing the swordsman further. With a mischievous glint in her eyes, she added, "It does appear as though the gold band on Zoro's Wado carries the symbolism of a union."
"Oh, that's pretty!" Luffy squinted at the engraved symbol on the band, his face lighting up with recognition. "Hey! I've seen that picture before!"
The crew leaned in with their curiosity piqued even more. Zoro, taken aback, stammered, "Wh-What?"
Luffy's excitement bubbled over as he attempted to recall the memory. "Yeah! I was kind of out of it, but I think I remember seeing it on a big hunk of meat! Or was it a pillow? A meat pillow?"
"OWWW!" The Captain yelled as he clutched his newly bruised abdomen. The crew erupted in laughter, their curiosity momentarily satisfied, as they watched the rubber man recover from Zoro's well-placed kick.
~3~
"I have another guess," Nami leaned forward, her voice laced with anticipation, A glint of determination in her eyes as she addressed the swordsman sitting across from her at the galley table. She had dedicated the better part of a week to unraveling the enigma behind Zoro's mysterious marriage. When he remained silent, she seized the opportunity to press on. "She's a daughter from a noble family, held hostage by a notorious criminal syndicate. By a stroke of fate, you stumbled into their secret hideout, unknowingly becoming her savior. Overwhelmed with gratitude, they offered her hand in marriage and even named you heir to their vast fortune."
"No."
"That was too specific, Nami. You have to keep things more general, or you'll never figure it out." Usopp, eager to offer his input, chimed in with a wave of his fork.
"I don't know about that, but I have another scenario." Undeterred, Nami shifted her gaze back to Zoro, studying his reaction intently, "You got lost and stumbled upon a woman who was under attack. Without hesitation, you intervened, not realizing she was an undercover assassin. You messed up the whole operation because you're an idiot and she ended up saving your ass. In a twist of fate, she married you out of genuine concern for your well-being."
Zoro paused with an inscrutable expression.
"No, no, that's the most unbelievable one!" Usopp interjected, a drumstick protruding from his mouth. "If she married him because she was concerned for his safety, wouldn't she still be with him? It's not like his sense of self-preservation has improved... At all."
Nami pondered Usopp's words, a flicker of realization crossing her face. "Yeah, you've got a point. Looks like we're back to square one."
Zoro's frustration boiled over, "What the hell!"
~3~
The sky transformed from orange into a fiery red horizon in front of her. Robin had let Zoro cool down for the last few weeks but today she'd succumbed to her own insistent curiosity. Eyes blossomed at all points on the large ship, not taking long to spot him tucked between a barrel and the rear railing.
"So, how did you two meet?" Leaning casually against the railing, Robin approached him with a lazy tone, hoping to catch him off guard. Zoro's eyes snapped open, narrowing in response to her inquiry. It was as if he was weighing his options, deciding whether to indulge her or shut her out.
"If I ignore you, will you go away?" he grumbled, his irritation palpable.
"Never," she replied, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. Zoro let out a defeated sigh, adjusting his swords. Resigned to the fact that she wouldn't give up easily, he prepared himself to share a fragment of his story.
"It was before I joined the crew. We were after the same bounty," he admitted, his gaze fixed on the horizon. Praying that Robin wouldn't press for further details, he silently bargained with any deity that would listen.
Robin raised an intrigued eyebrow. "You've been espoused this whole time? And never said anything?"
"No one asked," he replied curtly, closing his eyes once again and leaning back against the railing. Zoro hoped his brief explanation would be enough to satisfy her curiosity.
Robin couldn't argue with that, even if the idea was absurd. As far as she knew the day Nami asked about the ring was the first time anyone had inquired on the first mate's love life. Zoro's unwavering focus on his goals often gave the impression that he had no room or desire for romantic relationships. "So, you went after the same bounty. Did love blossom quickly after that?" she probed, taking advantage of his closed eyes to study his reaction. She noticed his body tense, clearly expressing his disdain for the conversation.
Zoro scoffed, adjusting his swords, "Hardly."
Curiosity burned within Robin as she pressed on, determined to unravel more of their union. "What led to your union?"
"Booze," he replied bluntly, causing a chuckle to escape her. Zoro's nonchalant response amused her, finding a touch of romance in the unconventional beginnings of their relationship.
"There doesn't seem to be a record of your marriage," she observed.
"I doubt it was legal. It was just the two of us, a weird old man, and a creepy moose," Zoro explained, his tone dismissive.
Undeterred, Robin's smile grew, a warm sensation filling her chest. "Yet, you still carry the ring and consider yourself tied?" she remarked, acknowledging the significance of his actions.
"Whether it's recognized by the World Government or not, I made a promise," Zoro grumbled, the heat rising in his cheeks. The biting cold air offered no respite from his embarrassment.
"That's awfully romantic, Mr. Swordsman," Robin teased, a playful glimmer in her eyes.
"Are we done now?" he asked, his voice laced with a mix of exhaustion and frustration.
"One more," Robin replied, her smile widening. "Have you continued to see each other?"
"She shows up whenever she feels like it. Always has somewhere to be," Zoro responded, his irritation evident. Robin's brows furrowed, a suspicious glint entering her gaze.
"Oh?" Robin asked, as her eyebrows knit together, and her head tilted slightly. A suspicious glimmer appeared in her gaze.
"She deals with some weird underbelly intellect shit." The woman stilled and Zoro stretched his shoulders before letting them fall.
"Do you mean she's an underworld intel broker? Do you know where she is now?"
"She mentioned something about an island that can't decide if it's hot or cold," Zoro replied, leaving.
~3~
Aiya clicked her tongue as she deftly weaved thick, lustrous blond locks with both hands. Perched on the outer edge of the safety rail in the upper walk of the Biscuit Room, she stretched her reach to tend to the top of an extra-large head. "Do you have your own children, Mère?"
"No, just you beaux anges... beautiful angels," she replied, her voice filled with warmth. The children gathered around her, their eyes shining with curiosity as she worked her magic, conjuring rusty-rose ribbons from her palm. Aiya allowed herself to slip into her most comfortable accent, sprinkling simple French words throughout her responses, an invitation for the children to learn.
Mocha, the gentle giant with her flowing brunette hair, mustered the courage to ask a question that had been weighing on her mind. "Are you married?" Her voice carried a tentative tone, for she had learned the importance of comforting and reassuring her other young companions in the absence of her own parents.
Aiya's fingers skillfully tied off the end of a braid, but she held onto it for a moment longer. She had never experienced the natural affinity for children that some possessed. Growing up without a mother made her journey all the more challenging, yet it also fueled her determination to fulfill her ultimate goal.
The intel broker had taken a solemn vow to protect and rescue every child trapped in the clutches of human trafficking, tirelessly working towards dismantling the entire trade. It was a mission that consumed her, driving her to ensure the safety and well-being of every innocent soul she could reach.
The children of varying size around her had loving families that mourned their loss or held onto hope that they'd be reunited. They were victims of the joker, just as she was, and she wouldn't allow him to steal the rest of their lives as he'd done to her.
The children, each of them with their unique sizes and backgrounds, reminded her of the families they had lost or the hope they still held onto. Victims of the joker, just like her, they deserved a chance at a life that wasn't tainted by his darkness. She was determined not to let him steal the remainder of their existence, as he had done to her.
"Eh... Je suis mariée," she uttered, her voice carrying a hint of nostalgia.
The girl slouched, her eyes seeking understanding. "Mère, what does that mean?"
A playful smile touched her lips. "I suppose you'll have to figure it out, Mon Chérie."
"I know!" Peter exclaimed from the corner, his face beaming with excitement. "Your husband is the man with the silly hat. How come he never visits us?"
A gentle chuckle escaped her lips.
"He's not her husband! He's her Captain! Mère would never marry someone like that. I'm certain her husband is a handsome prince!" Daisy sang out from her perch in the loft, her voice filled with whimsy.
The underworld assassin listened intently as the children engaged in delightful speculation.
Giggles filled the air as they wove stories about her mysterious prince charming. She joined in their laughter as they described a blond man on a white horse, donning shining armor, who would come to their rescue and whisk her away to build a large family of their own.
In those fleeting moments, she allowed herself to indulge in a vision of little green tufts peeking through a soft blanket. She tried not to dwell on the invisible strings that bound her, or the ragged scars etched upon her soul.
Deep down, she knew that their imagination was a gift, a respite from the harsh realities they faced. And as the children reveled in their tales of enchantment, she couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope that one day, they would all find their own happy-ever-after's.
~3~
"Rumors that the Straw-hats were seen sailing into the New World have been confirmed." Aiya stood with tight shoulders before the Heart Pirate's captain.
Law continued his work without lifting his eyes, his focus fixed on the papers spread across the salvaged desk in the dimly lit storage room. DEATH was carefully knitted between pen strokes, a testament to his meticulous nature.
"Didn't you start those rumors?" Law's voice was laced with a hint of amusement, as if he already knew the answer.
Takahashi felt a twinge of irritation, "Yes."
An icicle crashed down from the dilapidated ceiling, causing a loud disturbance and sending a puff of dust into the air. Takahashi glanced away from Law, her eyes scanning their surroundings, taking in the worn-out state of the room.
"And how were those rumors verified?" Law finally lifted his gaze, meeting her eyes. His intense stare seemed to dissect her, but she held her ground, refusing to back down.
"A very reliable firsthand witness," she replied, her tone carrying a hint of defiance.
"A witness or someone aboard the ship?" Law's curiosity was piqued, his piercing gaze penetrating deeper. "You've kept me in the dark long enough. We had a deal, Miss Takahashi." Law's voice grew stern as he leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the woman standing before him.
"If I just went around selling out my informants, you know you'd be the most fucked, right? Put your dick away, Law. I'm sure it's perfectly adequate." She shot back, the warning in her own features to match his.
A self-assured smile tugged at Law's lips, his ego momentarily inflating. "Oh, I assure you, it's more than adequate."
Her eyes flashed with a mix of warning and defiance. "And here I thought you were compensating for something with that sword." With those words, she turned on her heels and began to walk away, the echo of her heeled shoes reverberating through the metallic room.
"Miss Takahashi," Law's low voice rumbled with a warning, his words intended to halt her departure. But she continued her confident stride, the clicking of her heels a defiant rhythm against the metal floor.
"Ruby."
A surge of emotion ripped through her chest, sending a jolt of adrenaline coursing through her veins. As her vision blurred, she fought to regain control, reminding herself that it was just Law standing before her. No one was going to hurt her.
Her eyes darted quickly, searching for any signs of danger. He's not here. It's just Law. She repeated the mantra in her mind, grounding herself in the present moment.
Law's gaze lingered on the revealing neckline of her tight, brightly colored dress, his eyes tracing the rise and fall of her chest with each breath. A wave of discomfort washed over her, but she refused to let it show.
"Perhaps we could move our power struggle to a more enjoyable environment and finally put this tension to rest," Law suggested, his voice laden with suggestive undertones.
With a swift motion, metal screeched across the floor, and the desk that separated them vanished. She seized the opportunity, constricting fabric slithering around his mid-section, pinning his arms to his torso. The force of her action sent him crashing back against the chair, the impact driving splintered wood into his back.
She yanked on the silk, tightening her grip, and his body lurched forward until she towered over him. The look in her eyes turned almost feral as her words dripped with venom, blending his native tongue with her comfortable French.
"What kind of sick fuck are you? Do you think you're the first man who's tried to domesticate me with their pasty, petite bite?" Her words spat out with seething rage. "Je m'arracherais le coeur... I would rip my own heart out before I let a man control me. Ever. Again." Her voice carried a mix of anger and disgust, punctuated by a brief pause, as a flash of deep pain crossed her face.
"I thought you of all people would be above that, Trafalgar," she continued, her voice trembling. The adrenaline that had fueled her strength now weakened her knees, causing her to shake uncontrollably. Her chest tightened, her heart skipping a beat as she fought back tears. "Ruby's dead. You watched as she shattered. You did nothing as her pieces were rearranged to fit the twisted fantasy of a madman." She took a deep breath, holding it momentarily as she fought for composure. "You promised me that we'd have each other, but then you ran away with Corazon and left me behind. You left me alone. With him."
The weight of her words hit Law with a force he hadn't anticipated. His eyes widened, a chilling realization burning through his bones. Before he could utter a word, the silk tightened around him once more, muffling his voice.
"Watch yourself, El Capitaine," she warned, her gaze locked onto his. Her anger and disgust softened, replaced by a distant, glazed expression. Law took a deep breath as she finally released her grip and withdrew the dark rose silk. His eyes remained fixed on the spot where it seamlessly reabsorbed through the skin of her hand.
"I'm not a terrified, defenseless little girl anymore..." Her voice wavered for a moment, then grew stronger. "And I'm not alone either." She turned to leave, her fiery red hair swaying with her determined stride. "If you want to know my informant so bad, that can be arranged. I can't say you'd end up on the right side of his blades though."
The room fell silent, the weight of her words lingering in the air as she made her exit, leaving Law to grapple with the haunting truth of her revelations.
Aiya had vanished, leaving Law to grapple with the weight of her words. His mind struggled to catch up as she slipped away, her presence fading into the shadows.
If there had been a life before Doflamingo, Aiya couldn't recall it. Her earliest memories were tainted with the scent of pink feathers and the chilling smiles of her captors. She had no recollection of being abandoned or abducted as a baby, unsure if there was a family out there mourning her absence. On those restless nights, she allowed herself to dream, to imagine a loving family with a tall, pale woman and a strong man, their arms open wide to embrace her after all those years apart.
On bad nights the sound of flesh being torn from their bodies echoed in her mind. It was a haunting reminder of the cruelty that had seeped into her life, a darkness that overshadowed any glimmer of hope.
In her darkest moments, she witnessed the heart-wrenching sight of her protectors, the ones who had cared for her, handing her over to a monstrous man with a piercing smile. They turned away, disappearing into the murky fog without sparing her a single glance.
Her life hadn't started as the nightmare it had become. Initially, she had been nurtured and cherished by the family of pirates she had grown up with. They had provided for her, teaching her with patience and showering her with what she had believed was love.
But as her childish features gave way to the emergence of womanhood, a subtle shift occurred. It was so gradual that she hadn't noticed her innocence slipping away, stolen by the corrupting influence that surrounded her.
She had willingly embraced the transformation, trading in her playful attire for more mature and elegant dresses, adorned with white feathers as a tribute to the man she had come to admire. The presence of the high-status adults she was constantly surrounded by had made her feel infantile, prompting her to strive for a more sophisticated image.
Yet, in the pursuit of maturity, she had unknowingly sacrificed her innocence, leaving behind a trail of shattered dreams and a longing for the family she had lost. The darkness that clung to her existence overshadowed the flickering moments of happiness she had once known.
Aiya sprinted through the echoing halls, desperately seeking solace outside the suffocating confines of the laboratory. The rapid pounding of her heart matched the frantic rhythm of her footsteps. She couldn't hold it back any longer—a wave of nausea surged through her, threatening to rip her insides apart. Doubling over, she expelled the bitter bile from her empty stomach, gasping for breath between wrenching heaves. Each convulsion felt like a relentless assault, yet she welcomed the physical agony, channeling it into a seething anger that surged through her veins.
Aiya, Ruby at the time, hadn't faked her death. The pain and devastation she had endured were all too real. As her dormant devil fruit powers awakened, knitting together her torn muscles, and reviving her lifeless heart, she had awakened to a world that had already forsaken her. Her own body had been abandoned, left behind as a shattered remnant of the past.
With each retching spasm, Aiya's resolve hardened. The shame and betrayal that had consumed her were transformed into a blazing fire of determination. No longer would she be a victim, shackled by her past. She would harness her anger and use it as a driving force to exact her vengeance and reclaim the life that had been stolen from her.
Peru peru peru…
Peru peru peru…
A faint melody filled the air, carrying through the door of the room they had managed to piece together for their temporary stay. The sound brought a momentary respite to the tightness in her chest, drawing her curiosity as she stepped inside. There, perched on a small table, sat a tiny mushi with a distinctive scar marking its left eye.
Kaaa-CHA
"This is T.A.'s Florist, where we bridge the distance to passed loved ones with our beautiful silk flowers. How may I help you today?"
The green haired snail stared at her with familiar disdain. "Do I really have to do this?"
Aiya gave a small, apprehensive smile, "You're no fun, mon pétite caneton. Is everything okay?"
"My crew asked about the ring, and I told them the truth." Zoro's voice sounded firm, but she could detect a hint of uncertainty and a healthy amount of embarrassment.
A little spark from her veins returned to her roiling stomach. "I see. How much do they know?"
"Just enough to get on my damn nerves. And guess what? Luffy claims he's seen the symbol from my band."
Aiya raised an eyebrow, feigning curiosity. "Really? And where did he happen to spot it?"
"Tattooed on a… meat pillow."
She glanced down at her chest, where the lines of her tattoo faintly peeked out of her shirt. "I can't believe you just said that, but ah, that makes sense. I did help drag Luffy aboard the Polar Tang at Marineford."
"With your tits out?!"
She diverted with a hallow tease. "Aww, is someone feeling a little jealous?"
"No! I mean, it's just... You were willing to throw yourself into someone else's war to save him, but you won't trust my crew enough to meet them?"
Aiya let out an anxious laugh. "I do trust them. I don't trust prying eyes or what would happen to your crew if someone thought I was working with them."
"Bullshit. We can handle whatever comes our way."
"Even if, by some chance, your entire crew agrees with you, I'm simply not accustomed to... that kind of situation."
"You mean a safe place with people who don't want to kill you?"
"I'm just used to being alone."
"Are you alone now?" The gruff question took her by surprise. The earnestness poked her awkwardly and she deflected.
She deflected, not ready to reveal her vulnerability. "Are you going to ask me what I'm wearing next?"
"What?! No, you devil woman! Why would I ask that?"
She couldn't resist pushing his buttons further. "Oh, just thought you might want to know I'm wearing those green lace panties that remind me of what you look like between—"
"STOP. What the hell?!" Zoro's face flushed from red to nearly purple, scanning the training room to ensure no one had overheard. If a tiny ear happened to be hidden behind a colossal weight, he hadn't noticed. "I thought we were having a serious conversation!"
"You didn't complain the last time I—"
"Enough! Quit trying to change the subject, woman!" His frustration melted away, replaced by sincerity. "Damn it. Just answer the damn question, alright?"
Her stomach twisted, and she took a deep breath. "I'm not..." Her voice caught, the lump in her throat refusing to go down smoothly. "I'm not alone. There's someone with me."
"Do you trust them?"
She hesitated, the answer crystallizing within her before she fully realized it herself. "Yes."
He may be a colossal asshat, but he would never betray her. The anger she harbored towards the Surgeon of Death dissipated at the thought. Law might have his rough edges, but he valued loyalty just as she did. They shared a similar mindset: observe, analyze, predict your opponent's next move, and strike first. It was inevitable that things would clash.
The snail calmed and gave a little nod, "Good."
"You better be careful, Roronoa, or a girl may start to think you care."
"Why wouldn't I care?"
Ker-chick.
~3~
"We need to talk." The words hung heavy in the air as the tense man stood in the doorway of their drab metallic living space with the decency to look ashamed.
Aiya turned from a metal desk in the living area of the space. "Okay." She pointed to a plate across from her. "Here, I went and scrounged up some food. You owe me."
"I thought generosity came without strings." He sat across from her, setting his nodachi against his inner shoulder.
"My generosity is never without strings. Remember that." She looked at him intentionally.
His voice carried a hint of regret as he spoke. "I didn't run away, Aiya. Corazon took me."
"Huh?"
He took a deep breathe. "I didn't want to leave. Corazon took me."
Her eyes narrowed, and her grip on her own emotions tightened. "Took you? What do you mean?"
Law steeled himself, "I didn't want to leave. I begged Corazon to go back. He knew Doflamingo was determined to keep you at all costs. He'd have burned down whole islands to get your back. In the end, Corazon made a promise to cure me, and I made a promise to become strong enough to save you. I failed... I couldn't reach you in time."
"No shit, I died." Her voice wavered, a mixture of anger and sorrow lacing her words.
Law's eyes met hers, a flicker of remorse shining through his usual stoic facade. "I'm sorry, Aiya. I truly am. But now, let's focus on what happened. Tell me everything."
"She took a moment to compose herself, her gaze fixed on a distant point. "It was the night of the coup in Dressrosa. He sent me to capture the youngest member of the royal family." Her voice faltered for a moment, memories flooding back with painful clarity. "But she was no ordinary target. Her devil fruit granted her unimaginable power. It felt as if she could read my mind, see into the depths of my past... She knew what he had done to us, to me. And then she shot me through the heart."
Law's brow furrowed, concern etched on his face. "Do you think she has the ability to see into the future? Could she warn him?"
Aiya's gaze hardened, determination burning in her eyes. "I don't know for certain. But dwelling on what we can't change won't get us anywhere. We need to focus on the present."
He nodded, adjusting his position in the uncomfortable chair. "You're right. So, let's start with the swordsman. What exactly is your arrangement with him?"
"Fine with me. I have nothing to hide that you don't already know."
"Where do we start?"
"What about your arrangement with the swordsman?"
A hint of a smile curved her lips, a flicker of mischief in her eyes. "We connected long before he became a Straw Hat. As for the rest of the crew, I'm not acquainted with them. I've spent as much time with Luffy as you."
A spark of curiosity danced in Law's eyes. "Connected?"
Aiya maintained her confident composure, her gaze shifting to the distinctive yellow Jolly Roger on his chest. She had been closely following the Heart Pirates since their very inception. "Connected. So, tell me, where is your crew right now?"
Law contemplated for a moment, his mind working through the details. "They're on Zou, waiting for me there." His expression was thoughtful. "Why did you decide to delve back into the Underworld after you were free?"
Aiya's lips curled into an unbelieving smile, a glimmer of mischief dancing in her eyes. "Why are you stuck on this hellish island with me instead of snuggling with your adorable navigator?" Her tone carried a mix of humor and exhaustion. "Revenge. And honestly, where else can a grungy little orphan transform into an affluent woman?" She paused briefly, her confident façade unwavering. "There was a need for a third-party broker to bridge underworld contacts and coordinate business between otherwise unacquainted parties. It was what I had been trained for within the family, after all." She swallowed, her voice carrying a hint of weight. "Using a few innocuous pieces of inside information, I made my own connections and built a name for myself. Over the years, I've earned a certain reputation."
"What about friends? A new family?" Law's question held genuine concern.
A wistful expression flickered across her features, a mixture of longing and vulnerability. "You've gone soft, haven't you?" She stated it as more of an observation than a question.
Law's response was calm and sincere. "As a doctor, I understand the importance of having a support system, of keeping yourself grounded. Having a few people and a place to call home is crucial for that."
Her gaze dropped to the floor, her mind briefly transported to memories of warmth and belonging.
Her eyes locked onto the floor as the harsh chill of Punk Hazard made way for a salt filled summer breeze and the sounds of a normal day in the North Blue washed over her.
Then a humid afternoon in a shrouded forest. Her arm tingled with the light scraping of a gently nudging antler. The tinkling of laughter floated in wet air. That sensation was quickly overtaken by moss green and the scents of iron and clover.
All places that conjured with the word home, but they were fleeting. They didn't give her the safe sense of permanence and familiarity that came with what Law described.
The conversation had stripped away the need for pretense, and her emotions played across her face like shifting shadows. The vulnerability and fatigue were evident, no longer concealed.
Law watched her, sensing the waves of grief that emanated from her being. When she finally blinked, a blush tinged her nose, and he felt the exhaustion settle within him.
"I miss it sometimes," she whispered, her voice fragile with a hint of fear. "Not the torture or abuse, but those quiet nights when the four of us would huddle together and fall asleep under the stars."
He changed the subject. "If we're still alive when we complete our goal, you're welcome in my crew. You could still come and go as you pleased, but you'd have a place to go back to. People to miss you." Law imagined the last thirteen years without Bepo, without his crew. If his hatred had been left unchecked, his mind left to its own devices, he didn't think he'd still be alive have this conversation.
"Right, I meant to ask about that." She looked very thoughtful, and a little too innocent, "Does Bepo do naps? His fur looks paws-itively luxurious."
Law couldn't help but release a sigh, mixed with a hint of exasperation. "Just get out."