Alright, new chapter of Scarlet pushed out before I get too bogged down in University work...and I'd just like to take a quick second to talk about this fanfic.
I hate writing this fanfic. I hate it so much.
The obvious question in your head right now must be "well, why do you keep updating it then?"
My answer?
Because I love this fanfic.
I love the setting, I love the plot I'm trying to show, the way I've managed to rework the characters into the modern framework and introducing bits of One Piece lore and the story into the world of Scarlet. I won't claim it's original considering, at this story's heart, it's a homage bordering on copycat fic of Spiderman but I really enjoy the world of Spiderman as I do the world of One Piece and mashing them together has been so much fun.
But I hate writing this fanfic, writing being the keyword. I detest the style in which I write Scarlet and when I work on writing it, I keep feeling that I'm doing a terrible job because the style is not complimentary to my usual writing style. Third person past is a lot different from first person present...
Which actually allows to perfectly seg-way to mention that my uni friend Pelthain (Remember him? Mentioned his awesome AvatarXFairy Tail crossover fic last update?) and I have worked together and we've started writing a Fairy Tail fanfic together: Living with Erza Scarlet, starring our favourite red haired swordswoman and her blue haired love. The link to it should be just below (if not, Pelthain is on my favourite Author list so you should find it there). Please give it a look and I hope you enjoy.
s/10745705/1/
Anyway, getting back to the matter at hand: New chapter of Scarlet Wind. I hope you all enjoy this latest chapter.
Chapter 5: Translation Plane Act 1
Sunday, 3rd October
Scarlet P.O.V
Talk about out of the frying pan and into the fire. All I wanted to do was swing round to the Grand Line Times to meet up with Nami and now, I'm trapped in the middle of a gang meet-up. Shouldn't be a problem right? I mean, I'm the Scarlet Wind, I should be eating guards like this for breakfast (despite their lack of nutritional value) but these guys are different. They're not just simple mooks, they're well-armed and well-trained. Bullets aren't too effective against me but I doubt I can withstand a bazooka blast to the face…
"Surrender now ne'er-do-wells or face the wrath of the Sniper King!"
Oh yeah, and to top it all off, I've got this idiot to deal with at some point. I mean, I thought I looked ridiculous but what the hell is he wearing? The cape? The mask? The staff? It all looks like something your mother makes for you when you're six. Where the hell did he come from anyway?
"Ne'er-do-wells? Really? You are insistent on cramping my super-hero groove, aren't you?" I mock.
"As you are insistent on getting in the way of justice," Sniper King shouts back to me. "Stay out of my way Scarlet, do not make me take you down as well." Oh, we're onto the big threats now. Who does this guy think he is?
"As if you could," I respond. He turns to me as if ready to make good on his promises, only to remember that he too is surrounded. Refocusing on the group around us, I quickly start counting the number of thugs around us. We're outnumbered, that's clear, and from their weapons, I'm starting to think we're outclassed. There is, however, a clear divide between the people.
On one side, there are five thugs dressed, bizarrely enough, in tribal gear. Each one has their own unique weapons with strange ski-like shoes on their feet. Steam is leaking slowly from their rear, surrounding the group with mist. The other group, however, look far less professional, just three simple guys in ski masks and hoodies. The only noticeable member of this second group is the pink haired woman with them, dressed in a flamboyant black strapless dress. The leader of the warriors in tribal guard, a man with a sharp face and a Mohawk, levelled his bazooka at us, glaring at the group opposite.
"What's the deal here Perona? Who are these lunatics?" he cried. The pink haired woman's lips flapped in surprise.
"I-I-I have no idea!" The warrior's face hardened.
"Did you plan on this? Wanted to get the payment and stiff us on the purchase?"
"N-n-no Wiper! We didn't call them here," the pink haired girl complains. Her words seem to fall on death ears however.
"Joker demanded there be no complications and I am a man who appals complications," Wiper remarks.
"Joker?" I wonder aloud. "I thought I took Buggy down already…" The man turns the glare on me, his tattoo wrinkling.
"If including these idiots is how you want to play this game then I'll be taking those impact dials AND the money back." The woman, Perona I guess, backs off, allowing her three guards to take point.
"Gentlemen, we can discuss this," she said.
"No, we can't," Wiper responded, crouching down and firing off his bazooka. A giant flame blast leaps from the barrel. I and 'Sniper King'…or whoever the hell he is, leap out of the way as the fire impacts on the ground. Sniper doesn't wait around, pulling out that weird staff of his and firing off his pellets towards the attacking tribal men.
I, on the other hand, end up leaping towards Perona who wields her umbrella like a shield. As she lets out a scream, her guards move forwards. The difference in their equipment is so stark. Whereas Sniper is firing his tiny pellets at rifles and bazookas, I'm fighting against simple baseball bats.
"You're going down Scarlet!" one of the masked men yells, charging at me with his bat. It only takes a simple sidestep and a kick to disarm him and another kick to drive him to the ground yelping in pain.
"Bro!" another of the masked men shouts, joining his 'bro' in attacking. Again, he doesn't prove to be anything too major, just a punch to the stomach and he's down on the floor. Quickly, I turn to face Perona and the final guard. Whilst the pink haired woman is sneaking off towards the back of the room, her last champion steps forward.
Unlike the other fighters, he moves forward slowly and methodically. To further differentiate himself, he appears to be wielding two bats instead of…scratch that, he's just put one of the bats into his mouth and scooped up one of his comrades. Ouch, three bats. Must be hurting his teeth doing that.
"So, you're the next up to bat?" I joke with a smirk. "Well, at least you seem smarter than your friends. Though, of course, if you really smart you'd…"
He doesn't give me enough time to finish my quip. With inhuman speed, he swings. I dodge the first, barely and the second comes so fast I have to catch it instead of avoiding it. The third, the one in his mouth, strikes true and smashes into my head, bowling me over onto the ground. I groan, grabbing my sore head with my hand.
"Stay down," the masked man begs as he stares down at me. "I don't want to hurt you." That…that voice. So…so familiar…but…it can't be…
I start to stand up.
"I said stay." I stretch forwards with my arm. Not to punch him, but to grab hold of his mask. I grab hold, tightening my fingers on the fabric. On reaction, the masked man moves backwards, probably trying to escape a blow to the face. Due to the doubled pressure of his movement and my own grip, the mask easily snaps on a thread, ripping off his face. I pull my arm back, cradling the black mask in its grasp and look up into the face of my…no…no, this can't be happening…he can't…what is he…how is he…why…
"Zoro?" I wonder aloud. My friend's face hardens, still holding the baseball bats tightly in his fingers and teeth.
"How do you know my name?" Oh god, this can't be happening. My best friend is…he's…how? How did this happen?
Thursday 30th September
Usopp P.O.V
You know what, writing essay drafts is stupid. I mean, what's the point of spending all your time pouring your brain over something if its not going to be the final product. Pell says that it helps you get a good mark…and I suppose as a teacher he should know something about that…but, argh! I just hate it! I glance down at my paper at the words I've just written and scratch my head.
Frankenstein's narrative is interestingly formatted. Instead of being the usual chronological fashion, the story uses the framing device of an explorer stumbling upon the titular character who tells him an account of his life and his creation of the monster. Featuring a pivotal end scene, that of the dying Frankenstein meeting with the captain, at the beginning of the book helps lure in the audience's attention, whilst the second hand account of Frankenstein's tale helps give the audience insight into Frankenstein's character, allowing the true events and motives that led him to his current state.
I sigh. I've had gone completely off topic in that last paragraph from the character of the monster. Maybe I could segway into that in the next paragraph by using the monster's own story as an example? That sounds good…maybe. But, for now, I've done another 100 words so it's time for a treat. With a grin on my face, I un-pause Smallville on my laptop and smile as the action begins once more. Now that's a superhero. The superhero. Superman! Makes no mistakes, perfect gifts, grows to become strong, handsome, respected. I can't help but smile at the screen.
Oh yeah. What I wouldn't give to be Superman.
Friday 1st October
Zoro P.O.V
"So, what do you think?" The mass of black hair in front of me shrugs, beautiful locks cascading down her naked back like a waterfall of night.
"It was a decent movie I suppose," Robin murmurs, glancing over her shoulder at me. Those beautiful sapphire moonlight eyes look me in the eye, before scanning down to my waist. Clearly, she was enjoying the situation as much as I was from the sly smile on her lips.
"Decent movie?" I ask in an offended tone tightening my grip around her waist. "This one was awesome!"
"I admit it was quite the…" she pause as I trail my finger along her bare back. She shivers with pleasure. "Spinetingler…but apart from the interesting portrayal of perspective, it was a pretty simple action movie." I sighed, accepting defeat.
"At least you liked Vantage Point more than Rush Hour I guess."
"It was almost your last pick for movie night, that's for sure," she replies, leaning slightly back to rub against my chest. I close my eyes and sigh. She smells like pomegranates. I breathe the scent in and lean forwards to kiss her bare shoulders. As my lips meet her skin, she trembles with a soft gasp of joy.
"I love you," I whisper.
"I love you too," she replies, turning to kiss me on the lips. I kiss back, pulling her closer towards me. Robin seems to jump a little as something below bumps into her.
"Well…someone's excited…" she teased, pulling away only to plant a soft kiss on my nose.
"It was your idea to watch movies after sex, don't blame me," I said, giving her a playful smile. "Besides, how could I not get like this with you around?" She smiles at me, a thin crease in her lips. She licks them.
"You can be romantic when you want to be," Robin comments, before adopting a smug smirk. "When you're not ganging up on me with Usopp and calling me the mum of the group." I must have visibly paled because she starts chuckling.
"Well…" Come on Zoro, you can save this. "…I guess that makes you a hot momma then?" More laughter. Well, that was a crash and burn.
"Oh, smooth one there." Her comment implies it was anything but. I feel my cheeks go red and I look away. She always knows how to get to me. Her hand caresses my cheek and I feel my whole body shaking.
"I'm not good with words like those books of yours," I growl.
"At least you try I suppose," Robin replies, planting a kiss on my cheek. "I knew when I started dating you I wasn't going to be taking out Shakespeare." I grin out of habit and turn back to her, defeated but happy.
"Please, I'm kick that writer guy's ass if he even tried coming after you."
"I severely doubt you could considering he's been dead for centuries."
"Shut up, I'm trying to be romantic," I hiss. Robin simply laughs again.
"Trying being the key-word sweetheart." I frown at her words, sending her into fits of giggles again. "Oh Zoro, you shouldn't be too soft skinned. You know I'm joking."
"I know," I reply. She kisses me again.
"Then stop pouting."
"I don't pout." Now, it's her turn to pout, puckering those beautiful lips and narrowing her eyes at me.
"Zoro, would you lie to me?"
"I don't!" I insist. She keeps staring. "Well…not that much anyway…"
"You are such a child," Robin remarks with a shake of her head. She stands up off the couch, turning to face me. Her naked form gleams a light pink in the light of the Movie credits.
"I'm feeling a little hungry, do you want some food?" Instead of replying straight away, I
"Actually, I've got an appetite for something else."
"I've been able to tell."
"It's our first time together in weeks," I say, ignoring the heat I feel building in my cheeks. Hopefully Robin can't see them in the dark. She always makes fun of me when I show my more sensitive side. "I just want to make the most of it…"A clear smirk appears on her face in the dark room. She folds her arms under her breasts and leans forwards. Such a tease when she wants to be…
"Well, in which case, we better make up for lost time, right?" she purrs into my ear. I don't hesitate for an instant. Our lips collide in a flurry of passion and soon, I find Robin on top of me, her kisses trailing down my chest and her hands running through my hair. Something savage clicks inside me and I start losing myself in the motion too, kissing her everywhere I can, holding tight onto her hips. The whole world just seems to buzz. I nibble her shoulder, enjoying the little moans that escape from her mouth. Suddenly, Robin tenses. She says something but the words don't click.
"What?" I ask.
"Zoro," she repeats.
"Robin," I whisper her own name back to her and resume my attack. Robin persists, however, shrugging me away from her.
"No, Zoro." I stop, looking her in her beautiful sapphire eyes.
"What?"
"Zoro, there's someone at the door." I pause. Sure enough, a knock sounds from near the door. I give a sweet sigh of relief. That's good. I thought it was something important.
"Leave it," I whisper back, returning to kissing her. She sighs through the kiss and pushes me away back onto the couch.
"No Zoro, we can't, I have to see to this. I might be the landlord." And just like that my stomach turns. Well, that's killed the mood nicely. I growl, folding my arms and accepting defeat.
"See?" Robin says with a laugh. "Pouting." I grumble wordlessly in response, standing up whilst mumbling something to her about getting dressed.
"You too," Robin advises. "Your clothes are there…and there…and there."
"I know," I mutter, picking my shirt off the floor and throwing her a pair of pants and her bra. Robin simply smiles at me as she catches them. She quickly slips on her pants as the knocking comes once more from the door.
"Just a minute," she calls. I pick up a bundle of my clothes and make my way towards the bathroom, cursing under my breath as I go. Great, Mihawk goes out of town and I and Robin can finally have a moment to ourselves again and someone's busting in on us, ruining the whole thing. I hope it's not the landlord. Woop Slap is a nice enough guy but at the same time, he's still trying to work a business.
The only reasons he'd be here would be noise complaints (which I'd take a compliment) and to collect rent. I cast a glance over to Robin's kitchen table as I open the door to the bathroom. The light from the room flashes on the pieces of paper there, all of them warnings about late rent. I squeeze the door handle tightly before slamming it shut and heading into the bathroom to change. Robin tries to keep her money troubles on the quiet but it's understandable.
She lives alone and in order to pay the bills, she had to pick up some part-time jobs on the side and even still, she can barely make ends meet. Woop Slap is lenient but even so, he's still got to make money where he can and that means playing hardball with some things, namely rent. As I slip on my t-shirt, I keep an ear trained to the door. Another knock. Robin hasn't answered the door yet…wait, no, there's the creak. Who is it?
"Nami?" My eyes widen. Nami? What's she doing here?
"Robin, we need to talk." Yep, that's definitely Nami. I finish putting on my t-shirt and start putting on my jeans, hopping up and down and abandoning any sense of dignity as I listen in. How is it that Robin keeps balanced whilst she's getting ready and I look like a freaking cartoon character? Pressing my ear to the door, I can hear the front door shut.
"Okay, what is it you want to talk about?" Robin starts and I'm sure I hear the crunch of someone sitting down on the couch. "Because if this is anything major, you should know-"
"Robin, you were right. You and the girls, you were right all along and I never realised it…and now I have, I need someone to talk to about it…"
"Nami, what are you talking about?"
"Robin, I love him. I love Luffy!"
"What?" Robin gasps.
"What!?" I scream in agreement, only to overbalance as I slip my foot into my jeans. I end up falling over, slamming face first into the bathroom door. The door swings open and I tumble down onto the floor. As I land, I can hear Nami letting out a surprised scream as Robin struggles to hold in her laughter.
"Robin! What the hell is he doing here?" she shrieks.
"Yeah, good to see you too Nami," I growl into the carpet, ensuring the orange haired woman knows I share her discomfort in her invading Robin's apartment and shattering my alone time with my girlfriend.
"I told you I was looking after Zoro today," Robin states, looking to me with a gleam of glee. Nami seems to notice the look and starts glancing between us, her head twisting so quickly it's surprising that her neck hasn't just snapped. She points to me and starts stuttering with confusion.
"B-but…but…it's like half past one in the morning?" the orange haired witch ponders aloud.
"Sleepover," Robin states simply. Nami doesn't appear at all convinced with her excuse. Her eyes turn from Robin to me once more, only to widen as if she's just spotted something. A smile appears on her face. I shudder. I hate it when she smiles like that. It always bodes ill, mainly for me.
"I see," she says "though that doesn't explain why Zoro's pants are on back to front." There it is. The sound of her dropping me in trouble again. Instinctively, I reach down to my jeans and discover that she's right. No zipper, just two back pockets. I look to the two girls in desperation. Robin sighs.
"I suppose the cat's out of the bag now Zoro." I groan. It had been my idea to keep our relationship a secret from everyone else. Too much drama, I had thought and look, my assessment is proving to be right.
"Couldn't be a secret forever I guess," I growl, picking myself up off the ground and wrapping my arm around Robin's waist. "Besides, that means I get to do this in public from now on." I pull her into a kiss which Robin gratefully returns. Even though my eyes are closed, I can still hear Nami letting out a wrenching sound.
"Honestly Robin, I thought you had taste," she remarks.
"You can hardly say that now you're with Luffy," I reply. Now, it's Nami's turn to start blushing.
"Sh-shut up! W-we're not…"
"But you two were on a date together tonight, right?" I wonder aloud.
"It wasn't a date," Nami corrects, fixing her sudden stutter but failing to correct her red cheeks. "We just…we were just hanging out." A long pause fills the room. Nami's head falls, her gaze burning into the floor. I glance to Robin, who gives me a warning glance. I'm starting to get good at our silent conversations now. This look clearly means that I need to sit down and shut up and not irritate Nami any further…or keep bringing up her whole Luffy issue. I do as I'm told (or as I think I am) and sit down on the couch, mumbling a quick apology to Nami.
"What is he even doing here?" Nami wondered aloud, ignoring my presence in the room.
"Sleepover," Robin repeated, causing Nami's jaw to drop. The disgust in her eyes amuse me. "Though a better question is why are you here so late?"
"Well…Bellemere dropped me off home after an incident at the concert hall," Nami begins to explain.
"What? What happened?" I ask.
"Are you okay?" Robin inquires. Nami nods.
"Yeah, I'm fine. There was a super-villain attack."
"It's strange that we can now say that and it seems completely normal," I muse aloud and Robin gives me another 'be quiet' look before refocusing on Nami.
"And?"
"And Scarlet stopped it and worked everything out, it doesn't matter. Point is Bellemere left me at home and…I just had to talk to someone so when she went back to sort out some police stuff at the station, I just walked over here. Had a good long think along the way…and I wanted to ask for some advice."
"And this couldn't have waited til tomorrow because?" I start, only for Robin to once more glare me down.
"Because it's driving me crazy!" Nami shouts in reply. "My heads spinning, I can't think properly, I tried having a nap on the way home and I can't sleep…I'm just a mess because this thing with Luffy is all I can think about and I don't know how to solve it!"
"That and you're probably still in shock from being involved in a super powered brawl," Robin notes. Nami falters for a moment, looking down at the ground before glancing up to Robin.
"I know this is a bit out of the blue…I'm just…"
"You're tired, stressed and confused. It happens," Robin concludes far too naturally. "Just relax now. Zoro, get us some sorting coco." The words take a second to properly register.
"What?"
"Nami, get comfy. Phone your mum, tell her you'll be sleeping here tonight. We'll have a good talk and you can have my pyjamas."
"But-" I attempt to say something, only for Robin to turn on me once more.
"Zoro, where's that sorting coco?"
"I…but we were…" I let out a sigh, accepting defeat. Clearly, our romantic night in has transformed into a girl talk night. I never thought I'd be the third wheel in a group with Robin. Sadly, I keep forgetting how close Robin and Nami are. At Robin's request, I start preparing the 'sorting coco' as Robin and Nami start talking.
"Alright, everything's going to be fine. Just have a drink, sit down and we'll talk about it. You fancy a movie night?" Please no Disney. Please no Disney.
"Well…I have been in the mood for Tangled recently." Fuck. Great, now the witch is invading my night, stealing my movie and stealing Robin. Yep, everything's just coming up Zoro. I take in a sigh and put the kettle on to boil. Glancing backwards at the two girls, however, I find myself smiling. I hate to admit it but Nami is a friend and she's a valued part of our group and, talking to Robin right now and with the promise of light-hearted goodness in store, she appears to be really brightening up.
This whole 'Do I like Luffy' thing seemed to cause a real strain on her the past few weeks. It must be weird having to rethink how you feel about someone you've known your entire life. At least she finally knows where she stands now. The only question left is what next? How do you announce such a change in a relationship with someone you've loved for so long?
Saturday 2nd October
Ace P.O.V
I've never been a tea person. Energy drinks are usually what I have and what I need too. A firefighter has to be energetic right? Got to be ready to swing in there and save the day at a moment's notice. Be a hero.
Right now, though, I need something calming. Nojiko says she knows a friend who says that tea calms the senses and chills you out, so I've had a supply put away for stressful occasions. I take a deep sip of the hot drink before placing the cup back down on the table. Despite the soothing taste, I still feel the insecurity of my current situation burning up inside me.
Luffy.
Luffy is the Scarlet Wind.
How had I not noticed?
Everything has seemed so different since Sabo died. I thought he was just grieving in his own special way. I might be right about it but he's definitely doing something I never expected.
"It's nice to have you home on the weekend for a change," Makino says, continuing her attempt to make small talk. I nod. A rubber man? How do you a rubber man? Is it a genetic thing? I've never noticed and I don't think Shanks or Makino know. Did Sabo? Is that why Scarlet appeared just after his death? To avenge the only person who knew what he was really going through?
"You got any plans for the day? Hanging out with the guys? Going to see Nojiko?" Is it right what the papers are saying? It can't be. Luffy's not like that, he's not a criminal or…but the evidence was so convincing. The whole Bluejam thing. They found his gang half-dead…did Luffy do that? Is he the same Luffy I've known throughout all these years?
"So last time Shanks was home we had sex right on the table where you're eating." I slipped a piece of toast in my mouth and chewed. I mean, how the hell can Luffy do something like this alone? Fighting all those battles and surviving each fight. You see in the paper and on the news all the harsh battles. How hasn't he needed a doctor yet?
All of this…I just…the Scarlet Wind, the Scarlet Wind being Luffy.
Luffy being the Scarlet Wind.
Wow.
Something slams on the table in front of me and I jump awake to the sight of Makino glaring at me.
"I knew you weren't paying attention," she growls. I feign a look of innocence and give an awkward chuckle.
"What the heck are you talking about Makino?"
"You didn't even react to what I was saying. You were lost in your own world again." My eyebrow rises.
"What did you say?"
"It doesn't matter. The main point is that you weren't listening," Makino insists. I hang my head in mild shame.
"Right, yeah, sorry Makino. I've just…just had things on my mind." Makino gives me a quizzical look.
"Do you want to talk about it?" I look to my breakfast. Tell Makino about Luffy's secret. The offer is tempting. Should I? Shouldn't she have a right to know what danger her son is putting himself in every night? But at the same time, it is Luffy's secret, it's his responsibility. Do I have the right to-
"Good morning family, how are we doing this lovely day?" I jump as Luffy comes sliding into the room. He sweeps past Makino, kissing her on the cheek as he passes before moving over towards the cupboards. Makino seems just as bemused by him as I am, though she expresses it through a childish laugh.
"Good morning to you too. Someone's in a good mood today."
"Not a good mood, a fantastic mood," Luffy replies, spinning around as he starts slipping bread into the toaster. "I slept better than I have in a long time and last night was awesome." Not from where I was watching. All of those scars and bruises. How the heck can Luffy have enough energy to dance around like this after all of that?
"Oh, last night," Makino interrupts, suddenly donning a serious look. "I think that we need to talk about that…" Luffy turns to her.
"Er…okay? What's up Makino?"
"Ace and I wanted to have a word with you about what you did last night…" I almost choke on my toast.
"We?"
"Yes, we know about your little secret Luffy." My eyes widen. Makino…Makino knows? She knows about Luffy being Scarlet? Why is she only just bringing this up now? How the hell did she find out? When did she find out? Luffy shares my surprise, reeling backwards and bumping his rear into the counter.
"Secret? What secret?"
"I think you know Luffy. It's been going on for a while, hasn't it? We'd have to be stupid not to spot it, right Ace?" Makino doesn't even glance at me. In my shocked state, all I can manage is a nod. Luffy's face pales.
"I-I can explain."
"Don't bother Luffy. I honestly thought I would have raised you better than this!" Better than being a vigilante super-hero? I don't think Makino ever covered that in her parenting. Luffy is growing more and more flustered with each passing remark.
"W-what?"
"I mean playing with girl's hearts like you're doing? Unforgiveable!" Makino folds her arms and casts Luffy a scorning look.
"Makino, I'm not the-wait, what?"
"What?" I agree, turning to Makino.
"You heard me. I know all about what you're doing: dating two girls at once! I thought I taught you better than that Luffy!" My confusion descends into uncontrollable laughter.
"Luffy's doing what?"
"Ace, don't laugh this is serious!" Makino insists. I nod my head, hiding my smile behind a hand. Oh god, I thought I had issues. What the heck has my little brother been up to? Super-powered fighting? Seducing all the ladies? Man, he's getting into the super hero role pretty well. I lean back and watch the two arguing. Luffy keeps denying Makino's accusations, helplessly trying to understand what she's saying.
"Two girls, what are you-"
"Hancock and Nami! You're leading both of them on, treating them like-"
"Nami? Hancock? What are you-"
"Don't act dumb Luffy! Hancock's your lab partner and coming round here and now you're using Nami as-"
"Using Nami? No, Makino, you've got it all wrong!"
"And she's your oldest friend Luffy! You go out with Hancock and then, one night later, you're going on a date with-"
"Woah, woah, woah! Going out with Hancock?" Luffy finally seems to grab control of the situation, as this attracts Makino's attention. "Are you mental? I've never been on a date with Hancock!" I raise an eyebrow. So he does know what a date is? Well, that's mildly surprising. Maybe it's just selective stupidity.
"They're both nice girls but-what?" Makino stops, blinking at Luffy as if she's only just spotted him for the first time.
"I said I've never gone out with Hancock. She was my partner for a research project. That was it. When we were round at your bar, we were working on the project. We're done with that now. I mean she's a…a friend, sort of, but I was never…I don't…you know?"
"You didn't like her like that?" I suggest. Luffy points to me and nods.
"There you go, that thing. I didn't like her like that."
"And you like Nami like that?" Makino's next question throws him off completely.
"L-l-like Nami like what?" Oh god, he really is as stupid as he looks. Oh god, he's as stupid as he looks AND he has super-powers. I put my head in my hands and let out a groan. I need to talk to him about this, need to make sense of the whole super-hero thing. Makino gives the opposite response however, her frown bursting out into a smile.
"So, when you went out with Nami yesterday, that means you two were-" She thinks about what she's saying for a moment before squealing. "Oh Luffy, I'm so glad! How did I not see this happening? You two have been best friends since-ah! Wait until I tell Bellemere!"
"Tell Bellemere what?" Luffy wonders aloud but Makino is too consumed with her giddiness to stop ranting.
"I expect grandkids, not yet obviously. I mean, you're both still in school, so grades will come first but she's a splendid girl: good, head-strong and confident. Plus, she'll definitely be able to keep you in line." It is clear from a glance that Luffy isn't understanding anything that Makino is saying. Everything is going in one ear and out the other.
"Er…yeah, that sounds like Nami alright," he concludes lamely. "We had a lot of fun last night…you know, ignoring the whole supervillain attack." Makino stops her ranting and turns to Luffy with a look of surprise.
"Supervillain attack?"
"Yeah, this clown guy and this gangster attacked the place and-" Immediately, Makino switches into her babying mood, scooping Luffy into a backbreaking hug.
"Oh my god! Sweetie, are you okay? Are you hurt? What happened?"
"Yes, no and I got trapped in a toilet whilst the action was going on. I'm alright though."
"Trapped in a toilet? Are you hearing this Ace?"
"Yeah," I mutter. I'm hearing the lies…Luffy's lying. This seems so weird. He never lied, was never any good at it. Has he always been this good at lying? Did he learn? Does he have a split personality or something like that? What happened to the sweet innocent brother I knew?
"Makino, I'm honestly fine," Luffy explains, pushing her away. "Now, can I get some breakfast?"
"Sit down and I'll make you some pancakes," Makino replies, spinning back to the kitchen. "You sound like you've been through enough to last you a lifetime, sit down and relax. We can enjoy a nice family breakfast together."
"Your wish is my command," Luffy replies, flopping backwards into his seat and picking up his knife and fork. He looks up and playfully goes to stab a piece of stray bacon on my plate.
"Hey bro, how you doing?" he asks, slipping the bacon into his mouth and chewing. Food fights are common in the house. Food fights are for different days though, different times. A different Luffy. The man currently sat in his place is a mystery to me and I've never been a fan of mysteries.
"Hey." Luffy's smile deflates at my monotone.
"Wow, what's got you in such a bad mood today? Make-up with Nojiko not go well?" I clench my fists. Joking around even now. Not today Luffy. Not right now.
"I need to talk to you," I whisper, low enough that Makino misses it. Luffy's brow furrows. He seems to finally be clocking on to how serious I'm being.
"Talk to me?" he replies cautiously.
"It's important." His expression warps, showcasing more confusion.
"Okay then, sure. If you say important…"
"It is," I whisper. Luffy nods.
"Sure then, we can talk…" Suddenly, his serious expression gives way to his usual smirk. The whiplash gets me caught off guard. "But can it wait until later? I want to phone Nami first, make sure she got-" Before he can finish, the house phone starts ringing. Luffy instantly springs up out of his seat.
"I got it!" he announces proudly, weaving his way out. Makino gives a laugh as he leaves the room.
"Looks like her ears were burning," she says to no-one in particular. I ignore her charming remarks and level my gaze at Luffy in the corridor. So natural. So calm.
How does he do it?
How has he hidden two lives for this long?
Have I just not been looking for it?
I suppose the option of Luffy being a super-hero was always rather out there but now I know it's true, it seems even more unlikely.
How?
Just how did this all start?
How does it all fit together?
I steady my breathing and listen in as Luffy picks up the phone, gleeful bounce in his step.
"Hey Nami," he coos softly. "Was just talking about you." Could Nami know too? Or Zoro? Maybe they all know? Someone has to know, he has to have told someone a secret this big. The questions in my mind come to a screeching halt as Luffy's whole face changes. His smile shrinks and his face droops.
"Nami?...Nami, are you-slow down Nami, I can't hear what you're…what? What? You…really? He's? Oh, crap." Luffy reaches a hand up, running it through his raven locks. Sweat leaks down his forehead. "I know. I'll be right round, see you guys soon." With a click, the phone is off and with a crash, Luffy slams it back down onto the receiver.
"Luffy…" I speak cautiously as he comes back into the kitchen. Makino glances up from her cooking as he races back in, blissfully unaware of the issue.
"Well, that was quick. Are you two meet-"
"Ace, I need to give me a lift." Interrupting Makino? Something must definitely be up.
"Where to?" I wonder aloud, instantly reading the cracking in Luffy's voice.
"Dawn General Hospital." Makino finally clocks on to the problem, her eyes going wide.
"What? Why?" Luffy turns to her and I finally spot the tears bubbling in his gaze. His voice is breaking and only one word squeaks out.
"Usopp."
Zoro P.O.V
I've never liked hospitals. They're annoyingly terrible in every area: smell, look, sounds. There's even the bad taste in the air that hovers around every corner. They're…Robin had a good word, what was it? Deplorable? Let's go with that, deplorable.
Heck, part of my wishes I'd still be back at Robin's apartment curled up on the couch whilst she and Nami sing along to 'And at last I see the light' whilst I claw out my ears. The music is terrible but at least it's a better atmosphere that this. The corridor is in complete awkward silence. There's no laughter or talking. We all just sit around, waiting. I'm starting to get antsy. I know from the way I've started tapping my foot hard against the floor and how I've read every freaking poster in this corridor about twelve times.
Why is it taking so long?
It was Chopper who had heard about the whole thing. His stepmother, Kureha, had finished her shift at the hospital when his ambulance came in. The second she recognised Usopp and his parents, she dropped everything and went with them as far as they could go. From there, she told Chopper and the news quickly spread to all of us. Currently, the old woman is sat leaning against the wall with an odd guy (apparently, he's Usopp's uncle), gently sipping from a paper cup of coffee. Chopper is on the chair beside her. He's currently tending to Usopp's mother, rubbing her back soothingly and promising that Usopp will be okay.
Poor Bachina. She's still sobbing silently. Chopper's tears match her own and the two seem to bond over their crying. Yasopp stays still through it all, holding his wife and occasionally casting a smile to Chopper to show he's glad he's there. Usopp's parents were pretty surprised when we burst through the door into the wing, the girls showering them with hugs and apologies, whilst all I could do was lower my head in respect. They didn't expect us to show up. Truthfully, if it had been anyone else, I probably wouldn't have bothered running all the way here in the early morning.
But it was Usopp so we came.
We had to be here.
I wouldn't forgive myself if I wasn't here when anything happened to the little long nosed liar and we all feel the same way.
Robin was the first person Chopper called so we heard about things quite early on. She's sitting next to me, her head resting on my shoulder. Her eyes flutter up and down, battling to remain open. She tried reading at first to keep her mind awake but she ultimately decided she couldn't concentrate properly on it knowing Usopp was in danger. I cast her a small smile as he nuzzles into me. Nami sits a chair away from Robin, probably trying to stay away from the 'oogies' as she's called them of seeing me and her best friend together.
Don't know if she's joking about that.
Don't think I care.
Her head is lowered, glowering at the floor in silence. She's taking it just as hard as the rest of us. The only real difference is there's no-one here for her to lean on. Robin and me, Yasopp and Bachina, Kureha and Chopper: there's someone we can unload on, hold onto, feel better about being with. She doesn't want to break any of our little groups up and she wants to see how Usopp is. More than anything, though, I can see in her eyes she wants reassurance. It's a reassurance I can't give her. Robin tried to coax some conversation out of here earlier but to no avail. She wants to talk to someone else. She needs Bellemere or Genzo or Nojiko or…
"Luffy, wait up!" Everyone's head springs up at the cry just as the nearby doors swing open. Luffy comes racing through the door. He takes two huge strides only to realise that he has no way of stopping himself from continuing running. He plants his feet firmly on the ground but instead of stopping his sprint, he flips backwards in the air instead, landing on his back and sliding forwards towards the chairs. At once, we're all up on our feet looking down at him with concern. He looks up at us with an awkward smile.
"Hey, came as soon as I heard." Say what you will, Luffy definitely knows how to make an entrance. I let out a sigh, letting go of Robin's waist and lowering my hand to hoist the black haired idiot back onto his feet. Makino and Ace race in just behind him, both panting heavily.
"Bachina, Yasopp, I'm so sorry we're late," Makino says, rushing over to the two parents and engulfing them in a hug. It's greatly received.
"We would have been quicker but the roads were murder," Ace explained, rubbing Chopper's light brown hair with a hand as he passes by. "How is he?" Bachina opened her mouth to speak but Kureha spoke on her behalf.
"We don't know. They've been doing tests, trying to see what's wrong. They're not sure though, some kind of poisoning we think. His whole systems gone haywire." Ace's face falls at the explanation.
"He's…he's alive though right?"
"He should," Kureha responds. The mere reminder of their son being alive causes Yasopp and Bachina to hold Makino tighter. "His condition is…stable is the wrong term but he should be fine. There's just something up, a bug in his system, something like that. We'll need to wait to hear from the actual doctor though before I can say anything concrete about his condition." Ace musters a rigid nod in reply.
"Oh…well…good…I think…hope." He lamely turns to Yasopp and Bachina. "Sorry."
"It's okay Ace," Yasopp assures him. "Take a seat." Ace does. Makino does as well, on Yasopp's other side. The only people still standing now are Kureha, Usopp's uncle and…hello, what have we here? All eyes suddenly turn to the couple standing at the other end of the seats.
Somehow, in all the chaos of their arrival, we missed the moment where Nami stood up and presumably threw her arms around Luffy's neck before proceeding to cry in the most unattractive manner possible. Judging by her sobbing and sniffing, Luffy's shirt is probably covered in wet tearful snot right now. He doesn't seem to mind at least and instead, pulls her close and starts rubbing her back gently.
"Shh," he whispers. "It's okay Nami, it's okay. Usopp's gonna be okay." Great, now he looks just about ready to cry now too. Damn it, I better not start sniffing now. I fucking hate crying. Usopp wouldn't want us crying on his account. Luffy stops and seems to notice us all looking to the two of them. In a rare show from him, he starts blushing, his cheeks glowing a deep pink.
"W-what? Something on my face?" Yeah, Nami. At least, she seems to consider it for a moment before he turns back to her and she hides her face in his chest again. I let out a sigh.
"Are we sure they're not together yet?" I mutter to Robin. She elbows me and demands I shush. If that isn't love, I don't know what is. I open my mouth to complain, but the door to the medical ward opening stops my mouth from flapping. Standing in the doorway is a man with a long curved moustache and a spiked beard in a doctor's coat. He looks to us and nods.
"The Mendax's I presume?" Yasopp and Bachina nod.
"How is Usopp, Doctor?"
"Please, call me Nako." The doctor replies, before plunging on into the explanations. "And I have good news. His condition appears to have stabilised. His life's in no danger." We all share of sigh of relief. Nami takes her chance to leave Luffy's shirt and quickly wipes her tears. Her mascara has run everywhere but she quickly wipes it off with some tissues in her pocket. "The only bad news," Doctor Nako continues "is that we have no idea what the problem is. We're not currently aware why Usopp collapsed and we have no idea when he'll make a full recovery. All I can suggest for now is that you let him rest."
"Can we see him?" Bachina asked. Nako nodded.
"Only immediate family." He glanced to us. "I'm sorry but you all may have to wait until his condition is more certain." Luffy and I open our mouths to argue but Robin quietens us both with a simple tap on the shoulder.
"We understand Doctor Nako." Nako nods, mumbling some small apology before vanishing back through the doors with Yassop and Bachina close on his heels. Usopp's uncle hangs back for a moment and then follows the group, his back hunched and his eyes unfocused. As for the rest of us, we are left standing in the hallway, separated from Usopp and now from his parents.
"I hope he's doing okay," Makino mumbles aloud.
"He will be," Luffy replies. "He's Usopp. He's a real strong guy, stronger than we give him credit for." Even so, Luffy's face doesn't seem totally convinced.
"Guess we just have to wait things out," Ace comments from his seat. "Yasopp and Bachina should be able to give us a full run down when they get back from seeing him. He seems like he's okay in any case."
"I'd still rather stay and see if he's okay for myself before leaving," Nami adds to the conversation, still cleaning up her face of tears and stained eyeliner. That girl puts too much effort into looking pretty and saving face.
"Then we better park ourselves down," I say, glancing to the group. "I'm not sure how long we're going to be here for."
"In which case, I'm going to go and get myself some coffee," Robin announces. She turns and starts to make her way over towards the door. I manage to cut her off before she leaves.
"No, you're tired. You stayed up all last night. You need your sleep…like some other people." I glance to Nami, who is already settling down against a chair. Luffy decides to sit down next to her, blissfully unaware that the orange haired girl keeps glancing at him on occasion. Man, the girl has got it bad for the idiot and he doesn't even know it.
When he looks to her with his great beaming grin, he doesn't even notice how his own cheeks flare red. Nami gives him a tiny smile in return and then looks elsewhere. "I'll go get you some coffee. There's a Starbucks around the corner, I'll grab you some from there." Robin's nose scrunches up. "Or I could just find some small independent coffee bar if that would make you happy?"
"Starbucks will be fine Zoro," Robin says with a sigh. She kisses me on the cheek. "Thanks. Don't take too long."
"I won't."
"And don't get lost." My cheeks burst bright red and I start walking, muttering under my breath about stupid woman and her stupid way of getting under my skin. As I walk out of the hospital ward, I can hear a confused shout from Ace.
"Wait…you and Zoro…how long has that been a thing?"
Feeding Robin's coffee addiction is expensive. I have to empty my whole wallet just to get her regular order: a large peppermint latte…it was peppermint she liked wasn't it? I hope it bloody was. Cost me five freaking beri. I've not got enough cash to keep springing out for her like this. Don't get me wrong, I love her but I'm not a millionaire. I've got money troubles as it is and that's without considering her own money troubles. I sigh as I emerge into the cold again, the heat of the coffee in my grasp the only thing keeping me warm.
Robin's always had troubles with money. Her mother died when she was little and since then, she was looked after by a family friend: a police officer named Jaguar D. Saul. Unfortunately, about two years ago, Saul died as well, leaving Robin to fend for herself. Woop Slap lets her keep the old apartment at a discounted price but Robin still has to take a lot of jobs on the side to make ends meet. Today, she's had to book off time from bussing tables to check if Usopp's okay. She was allowed to take the time off but she's not going to get any money coming in, which she sorely needs. If it's not one thing, it always seems to be something else.
Cutting through an alley at the side of the hospital, I give a groan of annoyance. She'll get by. At least, that's what she'll always say but if I can help her in any way, then I will without question. I just wish I knew how to help. I've never been very good with employment. No prior experience, no acquaintances who have a foot in the door to get me in either. The closest I get to having a little cash on the side is helping out at my Uncle Mihawk's dojo for his night-time kendo classes. Apart from that, the only ever form of income I've ever had was…
"Well, what do you know, it's a small world after all?" My whole body tenses. I know that voice. I know it all too well. I twirl around and glare at the figure behind me. She smirks at me, her purple lips curl into a smile. She's definitely looking smarter than the last time I've seen her.
No white shirt, hot pants are gone and it's all been replaced by this weird fluffy Victorian thing. In her arm, right at her breast (shit, someone's been padding those out), is her trademark teddy bear. I don't need this shit right now. Not again.
"Long time no see, Roronoa Zoro."
"Perona," I growl. "What are you doing here?"
"Oh, so harsh Zoro. It's been too long my dear," Perona mumbles, sauntering towards me, her hips swaying from side to side like a drunk ragdoll. "Three years since we last spoke right?"
"Four. And let's keep it that way," I counter, starting to walk again. To my irritation, Perona trots along behind me.
"What? No 'hellos'? No 'how do you do's?' You really know how to show a girl a good time." I clench my fists and keep walking, increasing my speed into a power walk. If I ignored her, she'd disappear. Perona manages to cut me off before the end of the street though. "Hey, don't just ignore me like that. Really Zoro, your manners haven't changed, have they?"
"What do you want?" I spit with venom. Perona doesn't look at all disheartened.
"Well, I just spotted an old friend across the street and thought I'd come to check on how he was doing."
"Good. There, you can go now." I make to move once more but Perona holds me in place.
"Woah, woah, slow down there Zoro. What's the rush? Aren't you going to ask how I'm doing?"
"I don't care." Perona pouts.
"Wow, you're going to hurt my feelings Zoro. And after everything we've done together." The hairs on the back of my neck prickle as Perona places a hand on my cheek. I step away from it.
"That was a long time ago. I've changed since then."
"We've both changed," Perona replies with a smile. "Which is actually why I wanted to talk to you."
"So you've been looking for me?"
"Of course not. But, since I've happened to find you, I might as well bring this matter of mine to your attention." I knew it. I freaking knew this wasn't a coincidence. Perona is from a part of my life that I would really not like to revisit.
"I'm not interested."
"You might be."
"I'm not."
"How do you know if you've not heard it yet?"
"Perona, get out of my way or I will…"
"You'll what? Make me?" Perona steps forwards, her fancy hat shoved in my face as she flicks her face up to look at me. "Go on then, I'd like to see you try. Then I'll scream, call a few words, I'm thinking 'rape' would have the best effect in this current situation, make a scene, you get spotted by the police, let's face it, broad strong thug looking guy like you, they'll take you in and you spend another night in a police cell. I wonder how they'll take to you coming back. There's plenty of people on the inside who would be thrilled to see you again. I hear Saga's got a bone or two to pick with-"
"I get it!" I shout back with a growl. Damn it. Perona's always been like this. Manipulative, underhanded, clever. It's why she's so good at her job…if you can call it that. I let out a sigh, massaging my brow.
"Two minutes of your time," Perona announces, lifting two fingers close to my face. "Two minutes and I give you my offer. If you're not up for it, that's fine, I can find other people. I was just wanting to throw an old associate a bone." I growl.
"Two minutes." She smiles.
"As I was saying, things have changed since we were young Zoro. You went straight and I? I went pro." I chuckle.
"Pro? Really?"
"Yeah, really." She's not joking. "I'm in the big leagues now Zoro…or at least, I'm getting there. One step at a time."
"You are looking pretty high maintenance for a drug dealer," I observe, studying her odd new attire. Perona laughs.
"Drug dealing? Please, Zoro. I'm not just dealing drugs anymore," she says with a grin. "Drugs are small fry compared to what I'm dealing in now. There's a whole new field out there looking to be exploited.
"And that field is?"
"Super-powers."
"Perona, I thought rule number one of dealing was that you didn't use your own merchandise."
"I'm two years clean," Perona snaps back, before swallowing her anger once more. "I'm not joking about this. Ever since that rubber freak moved into town, there's been whole new areas of research opening up. Back-alley transformations, super soldier serums brewed in a basement, they're just the start. We're entering a new age Zoro: a super powered arms race."
"You think that Scarlet Wind bastard is the only super knocking around out there? He's not going to be alone for long. You can hear it everywhere in the news, just little rumblings at first: some kid in Konoha survives getting hit by a bus, a guy in Karakura town complains that he can start seeing ghosts. All these little things at first. But then, new breaking news: teen bursts into fire in Magnolia, a child genius in Amestris starts experimenting in black magic."
"Magic? Seriously?"
"My point is," Perona continues regardless, "a new superhuman revolution is right around the corner and I and my employer wish to capitalise on it."
"Your employer?"
"He calls himself Mr Shadow. He's a broker in the underworld, very recent. New, up and coming but given time, he could become as big as Mr Zero or Joker."
"I severely doubt that," I respond. Perona lifts a finger to shush me.
"Two minutes you promised me. You're wasting about a third of it by talking over me." I sigh.
"Go on then, get to the point."
"The point is, my dear Zoro, I'm hitting the big leagues now. In fact, tomorrow night, I've got a deal going on. I'm selling some merchandise to a very up market client."
"And this matters to me…because?"
"Because I need your help."
"No."
"I've not even finished yet," Perona butts in. "I don't need you to deal, I don't need you to do anything. I just need you to play the bodyguard for a night, be some muscle in case things go wrong."
"Which they will," I retort. Perona ignores me and places a hand on my shoulder.
"All I need is you there showing a big of muscle. Do a good job and you might get some serious cash." Oh come on, like I haven't heard that before. I'm not some hired thug anymore. That was another life, before Luffy and everyone else.
"I don't care," I growl, shouldering past Perona. She seems to let me pass this time, though I see a smile slip to her lips.
"Twenty thousand beri." I stop in my tracks.
"What?"
"You heard me Zoro, twenty thousand beri. That's how much you get paid when this deal is done. We meet up, we take the merchandise to a small arms deal, trade and then you get paid the cash later." My eyes open wide. My mouth hangs open, limply flapping.
"Tw-twenty thousand beri?"
"Maybe more if we can haggle the price up," Perona continues. "Just for one simple deal, that's all and all you have to do is stand there and look strong, intimidate the competition. I'll even give you five thousand beri at the start as a down payment, a sign of confidence that things won't go wrong." I'm left blinking.
"I…I…Perona, I don't do that-"
"I'm not asking you to decide about it now. This probably needs a lot of thought," Perona concludes, passing me as she gently strokes my face. I'm too shocked at the sheer amount of money to move away. My mind is still racing. That much money! For one job! I allow Perona to slip a card into my pocket, presumably a business card with her number on. "Come on Zoro, remember the good old days? All the fun we had together?" Her hand goes low, caressing my lower thigh. I finally snap out of my mood and grab her hand, pulling it away from my leg.
"I'll call you if I change my mind," I growl, pushing her away as I start walking. Perona watches me go, that usual smirk on her face.
"We'll be in touch Zoro. Just remember my offer." I do. But right now, Robin needs her coffee and Perona's touch has left me feeling dirty. Twenty thousand beri though. Definitely tempting.
3rd Person P.O.V
The ear-phone clicked on. It was hands free so that the Director could keep working on his paperwork despite any incoming calls.
"Yes?" It didn't matter who was on the other side. He knew exactly who they were talking to and what they'd be talking about.
"Er…Mr Joker sir, there have been some complications regarding the S.M.I.L.E project sir." The pen the Director was writing with snapped in his grasp. He tossed the shards of the pen to his side. The ink splattered into the bin. Some was still on his fingers.
"…Define…complications."
"Well, sir, I collected the Pop Green samples as you requested for the experimentation process and overall, the samples remain mostly complete…" The Director lowered his finger, tapping the last remaining bits of ink on his finger onto the table.
"Mostly?"
"I apologise sir but I was staying in town with my family and…well, my nephew got a hold of some of the samples." The Director's eyebrow rose.
"Your nephew you say?"
"Yes sir, I am so sorry. He stole a small sample from all of the other samples, about two and a half ounces altogether. From there, he messed around with it, put on the bunsen burner and turned it into gaseous form." The Director twitched. His fingers were now ink clean.
"And he breathed in the gas?"
"Yes sir. He's currently in hospital." The Director smiled.
"Interesting."
"I am so sorry sir. I know this is an extreme breach of security and…" The caller paused. "Come again."
"I said it was interesting," the Director repeated, wiping his hands on a nearby hand towel. "We've not started proper testing with Pop Green yet. We should keep an eye and see how this situation develops."
"S-sir, y-you're not angry?"
"Far from it Heracles," the Director continued. "It'll be most interesting to see what comes of all this. We may get some conclusive results regarding the Pop Green research."
"…Sir…my nephew could die…"
"Yes, those results would be fairly conclusive. Do keep an eye out for your nephew. I want to know exactly what occurs, I will be monitoring him quite closely myself if possible. When it comes time to pay his hospital bills, let me know and I shall provide the funding for this research." The voice on the phone began to fade out.
"Yes sir."
"Keep me posted Heracles. I'd rather not have to chase this up myself. If I personally get involved, then-"
"I know," Heracles interrupted. "I'll keep you posted sir."
"Good to know."
"Until next time," the Director announced. The ear-phone clicked off. The Director let out a small chuckle. "Well, this is unexpected."
"What's unexpected?" Donflamingo looked up from his work and smiled.
"Don't worry your pretty little head about it," the blonde teased. "How was your day?"
"Not started yet," the black haired teen called back from across the room. "I just came to let you know I'm going out."
"Where?"
"Out?"
"Out where?" Donflamingo asked, lowering his sunglasses to look at the boy opposite him.
"It's my volunteer shift at the hospital. Thought it'd be better to let you know where I was instead of sending someone to follow me again."
"I have no idea what you mean my boy," Donflamingo said, his smile never faltering. The black haired teen let out a single chuckle.
"Sure you don't. Anyway, I'm on my way out."
"Don't wear yourself out. Remember, tomorrow you've got your meeting with Shiki. You're going have to be on your best form if you want to get the job."
"I'll be fine," the teen replied, turning towards the door. Donflamingo laughed once more.
"Seems you're moving up in the world Law. Go and have fun, enjoy yourself, make some friends" Trafalgar Law turned and cast his master a smile.
"I doubt I'm going to make any friends out there today."
To be Continued in Chapter 5: Translation Plane Act 2
Until then I'm Shadowonthewall6 and I hope you've enjoyed this latest chapter.
Please review. Positive criticism is welcome.