Becoming a Mother

The sub was quiet but for the soft beeping of the heart monitors. Law sat on the edge of Neo's bed. Warmth radiated off Cora's warming bed, warming his skin slightly. Both his son and his wife were sleeping soundly. So was everyone else on the sub. Well, everyone except him. There was something he had to do. Something he couldn't do with the healer woman and Kailen coming in and out at all hours to check on things. But now that Cora has stabilized a bit and Neo was resting comfortably, he would have time to do what he needed.

He pushed himself to his feet and walked over to a cabinet. Opening it he pulled out a scalpel and a local then created his Room. Without a word he used his powers on himself and separated a part of his body from the rest. He didn't hesitate. Lifting the needle he numbed himself. Neo whimpered at the poke but didn't wake. Next he lifted the scalpel and proceeded with the procedure. It didn't take long before the operation was complete. Neo wouldn't get pregnant ever again.

Law sighed with relief and put his tools away before returning to bed.

Soft fussing woke him some hours later. Law blinked away the sleep that remained in his eyes and found the healer feeding Cora. "Any problems?"

"No. Fussing is a good sign," Healer Zinnia said. "You should hold him for a while."

"I will in a moment." Law warped out of the room and into his and Neo's bedroom. He rushed through his morning routine, dressed, and headed back to the infirmary. The healer was gone. With his shirt left unbuttoned he lifted Cora from the warming bed and sat down in the chair beside it. Untucking the blanket he pressed Cora's skin against his own. Cora shifted then settled into the embrace.

Law chuckled when a certain man came to his mind. "Funny to think of Corazon at a time like this. I hope it's not a sign that you are going to be annoying like he was. I won't allow it, my son. Just because you are named after him you will not act like him."

From the corner of his eye he saw him. Corazon appeared sitting on the bed with Neo. His lips were curled into a smile. His eyes were full of pride of the man that Law had become. He leaned down and kissed Neo's cheek before appearing beside Law and Cora. Corazon brushed his fingers over Cora's cheek then pressed his forehead to Law's.

Law closed his eyes, leaning into the man's forehead. "Thank you, Cora. Thank you for always watching over Neo and me. And now our son."

He opened his eyes in time to see Corazon fade away.

Neo opened her eyes. She blinked the blurriness away to find Cora's empty warming bed. Her heart hammered against her ribs causing the heart monitor to shrill. With a gasp she shot up in bed. "Cora!"

"Calm down, love," Law said. "He's here."

Neo's eyes shot to him. He was sitting in a chair with Cora lying against his bare chest. Running her fingers through her hair she exhaled, the monitor and her heart slowing to a normal rate. "Law, you about gave me a heart attack. I thought something happened to…" Her voice cracked. She choked back tears.

"I'm sorry," Law said. "I didn't mean to scare you like that. The healer woman said it was fine to hold him for a while."

"It's okay." Neo shook her head. "I should have known with how calm you were. If something had happened to… I would have felt it from you." She tilted her head, taking in Law holding their small son against his chest. The comparison made Cora look even smaller. But it also made Law look even gentler. She giggled.

"What's that about?" Law cocked an eyebrow.

"Nothing. I was thinking about how gentle you are with him. The crew would love to see you like this. Imagine the teasing."

Eyebrow twitching, Law growled.

"I wish I had a camera. I'd love to keep this moment forever." Neo paused then said, "Law? About last night."

"Hm?"
"I felt… something." Neo gnawed on her lip. "You did it, didn't you? You gave yourself a vasectomy."

"I did." Law's eyes soften. "I don't want you going through that again."

"You're so hopeless." Neo's heart fluttered. She really wish she did have a camera.

Unfortunately, that particular moment was lost. The door opened and Healer Zinnia rushed inside. She paused, taking in the sight. "Goodness. I thought something happened to the princess."

"I was just startled to wake up and find Cora missing from his bed," Neo said. Summoning a crystal she lifted the head of the bed up and leaned against her pillows.

"I apologize. It was my idea to have Law hold Cora for a while," Healer Zinnia said. "He's doing a lot better today."

"I'm glad." Neo glanced back at Cora.

"You know, he's due for another feeding in a few minutes," Healer Zinnia said. "It would benefit you both if you held him during the feeding. What do you say? We need to check if he's interested in suckling from you anyway."

Neo shifted on the bed. She wasn't sure if she was ready to hold their son yet. Touching his hand while he was safely in his bed was one thing. There was no way of dropping him. But holding such a small, fragile person was something else. What if she couldn't hold him correctly? What if she did dropped him? What if he didn't want to be held by her?

"Don't be silly, love." Law carefully stood from his chair and moved over to the bed. He sat down on the edge. "He'll love being held by you. You're his mother. And, technically, you've been carrying him for six month already."

"You just had to read my mind." Neo fiddled with her fingers, her eyes refusing to move from Cora. "I'm still not sure. What if I drop him?"

"You won't," Law said.

Neo gnawed on her lip. Inside of her was a whirlwind. Her desire to hold their child was at war with her desire to never hurt Cora again. He still looked so small, so fragile, even more so being held against Law's chest. Still, through the battle raging with in her, she found herself nodding.

Law moved their baby closer to her.

Neo stiffened up when Cora shifted in Law's hold. A desire to run flickered inside of her. But instead of moving off the bed her arms lifted up when Law got even closer. Her arms instantly wrapped around Cora's small, warm form. Cora shifted, his face squinting in displeasure, a whimper, of being moved before he settled into the change. A quiet gasp left her when he turned his head towards her. A strange, yet powerful and unexplainable, warmth flowed through her entire body. It was a feeling she never thought was possible. It was a feeling that made her know she would do anything in her power to keep this precious little baby safe. Possibly even… kill?

"Cora, this is your mother," Law said.

Neo relaxed back on her pillows, pulling her legs up. She spoke low. "Hey, sweet baby. I am your mother. I'm sorry I haven't held you before now. You had me rather scared. But I'm better now. And your daddy and I going to do anything and everything we can to keep you safe and healthy."

"That's so cute. I knew you would do fine," Healer Zinnia said. "Let's give him his meal now."

"What do I do?" Neo asked without moving her eyes from Cora.

"You just hold him against your chest like you are. Preferably with skin to skin contact," Healer Zinnia said.

When Neo didn't move Law chuckled. "Looks like I'm going to have to warp her shirt off."

"It would seem so," Healer Zinnia said.

Law held up his hand. His Room flowed over them. With a twist of his hand Neo's shirt came off. He then reached over and moved Cora's blanket around more so his skin could touch Neo's better.

Neo still didn't remove her eyes from Cora. She was barely aware of Healer Zinnia hooking Cora's feeding tube to the preserve bottle of milk that had been taken from her breast. She took in every single detail of Cora that she could with him still wrapped in a blanket. His nose was small but exactly like Law's. His hair was also messy, pointing up all over the place despite being clean. His cheeks had a slight pudginess to them she hadn't notice before. It made him all the cuter. "Law, he looks just like you." She glanced up at her husband. Tears shimmered in her eyes. "Our baby. He's really here."

Law smiled with a nod. "He is."

Neo looked back down at Cora. Keeping her right arm firmly around him, she moved her left hand up to his face. She stroked his cheek finding his skin as soft as a flower petal. "Sweet baby. Welcome to your home. Welcome to the world. You're going to love it here. You have so many uncles and aunts waiting to meet you. So get strong real soon."

Cora's lips puckered in a suckle.

Neo brought her finger closer to his lips. He took her finger. "So cute! He's sucking on my finger!"

"That's a good sign," Healer Zinnia said. "We can try having him feed from you later."

Neo nodded. She was ready for that.

A knock came on the door.

"Come in," Law said.

"I brought you two something to eat." Kailen opened the door and stepped inside carrying a tray on a couple vines. "Hope you're hungry."

Neo's stomach growled. "Guess I'm starving."

"Not surprising since you've been more concerned about Cora than taking care of yourself." Law flicked Neo's nose.

"I guess so." Neo smiled.

"You guess so?" Law cocked an eyebrow.

Neo giggled, her bells chimed. Her smile grew when Law's heart fluttered.

"Good thing I made you something with lots of nutrition." Kailen placed the tray on the bed.

"Law, could you help with that? I don't want to loosen my hold on Cora," Neo said. Law picked up a sandwich and brought it to her mouth. She bit into it then hummed. "Thanks, my love. So yummy. And thanks, Kailen."

"And how's my favorite nephew doing today?" Kailen leaned down to Cora. "You're looking a lot better. I'm glad." He turned back to Law and Neo. "Is there anything else you need?"

"No. We're good," Law said around a mouthful of food.

"You going somewhere?" Neo asked.

"I'm heading back to the clinic. I came to check on you all and get lunch," Kailen said.

"How are things going at the clinic?" Law asked.

"Things are fine," Kailen said. "A few are asking when you'll be coming back. And a few have asked about Neo and Cora."

"Hm?" Neo tensed, her arms tightened around Cora. "And why would they be asking about our baby?"

"They're just curious to how you two are doing." Law patted her knee. "It's a normal reaction for people."

"Oh." Neo relaxed. "As long as they don't hurt our baby."

"They won't."

"Good. Be careful out there, Kailen!" Neo nodded to her brother.

"I will. Promise. See you later." Kailen waved and then left the room.

"Well, I'll leave you three alone for now. Call if you need me." Healer Zinnia left the room.

Neo gulped down some tea before Law picked up a rice ball and fed it to her. "So yummy!"

"I should say so. You sucked it down like it was liquid," Law said.

"I wasn't that bad." Neo shifted, feeling her still rounded stomach. "I can't wait to get back to normal size."

"You'll get there before you know it," Law said.

"So what now?" Neo's eyes slid to Cora. She smiled as she watched him sleep. "Looks like he's done eating."

"Ready to put him back in bed?" Law asked.

"I suppose so." Neo frowned. She pressed a light kiss to his forehead before Law took him and placed him back in the bed.

"Why don't you go tell Red Hair about Cora's birth?" Law asked.

"But I'll have to leave Cora." Neo pouted.

"It'll only be for a few minutes," Law said. "He'll want to know about this."

Neo, eyes locked on Cora, whimpered. She didn't want to leave their precious baby for a second, even though she would physically still be in the room. But she knew Shanks would want to know that Cora had been born. She wanted him to know.

"Now is the perfect time. Cora's napping. He won't need to be fed for a while," Law said. "And knowing you you'll feel like sleeping soon. I can tell you're still exhausted from giving birth."

Reluctantly she said, "Okay. But only for a moment." She flickered a glance at Law. "You'll stay with him, right?"

"Right."

"You won't leave this room while I'm gone, right?"

"Right."

"And if anything happens you'll call me immediately, right?"

"Neo." Law sighed. "Everything will be fine. I'm staying right here. Nothing bad is going to happen. Now go."

"Law!" Neo glared at him.

"Okay, okay. I'll call if something happens. I promise."

Neo nodded firmly. She puckered her lips with second thoughts before letting herself lie back down. She closed her eyes and called for her godfather. He answered back immediately as if he had been waiting for this call. She slipped herself to their shared dream world.

"Neo," Shanks said when she arrived. "Are you okay? Did something happen? I've been a little concerned about you lately."

"Yes." Neo nodded. "I have a surprise for you." She held her arms as if she were holding a baby. Bringing Cora back into her mind she formed a dream version of him. "Godfather, meet your grandson. Well, sort of. I can't really bring Cora here."

Shanks gasped. "You mean he's…"

"That's right." Neo nodded, her eyes still locked onto Cora. "This is Trafalgar Rosinante Corazon. He was born… um… a while ago." She ducked her head. "Sorry. I don't remember the day. I was scared when he was born. He had a lung infection. And was only four and a half pounds. But he's doing better now. A lot better."

"I see." Shanks leaned closer to Cora. "He's so cute. I'm so proud of you, Neo." He kissed her forehead. "You've done well."

"Thank you, Godfather," Neo said.

"Though it would have been nice if he looked more like you," Shanks said.

"Godfather!" Neo growled.

Shanks chuckled. "I'm kidding. He's cute as he is. Very cute."

"Would you like to hold him? I know he's not the real thing."

"I would love to. Are you sure?"

"I am. You know I trust you." Neo placed Cora in Shanks' arm. She smiled at how Shanks looked at Cora with such love. "I wish you could hold him for real."

"So do I," Shanks said. "Maybe I'll see you both soon. You're going to grow up to be a strong pirate, aren't you? I bet you're going to be just like your mother. Don't let your dad's cockiness rub off on you."

"Law's not cocky." Neo crossed her arms.

"Don't listen to Mommy," Shanks said in a mock whisper while lightly bouncing Cora. "She's completely biased when it comes to Law. She'll defend him no matter what."

"You two." Neo shook her head. She shifted on her feet. Having only been here a few seconds she was ready to get back to Cora. She wondered how he was doing. Did he notice something different about her? Could he tell she was, in a way, gone from his side? She had no idea. And she wouldn't know until she went back.

"Well, you should go back."

Neo started. "Sorry?"

"I know you don't like being away from him," Shanks said. Dream Cora vanished from his arm. "I'm glad you took a moment to come tell me he was born. I'll share the good news with the crew. They'll be so excited. And if I know them they'll want to send toys for Cora. They probably will have the wind elementals drop something by someday."

"They don't have to go through the trouble," Neo said.

"It won't be any trouble at all." Shanks kissed her forehead.

"Okay. If they really want to. Just make sure the elementals take care when traveling. You all too." Neo nodded and hugged him. "Love you, Godfather."

"Love you too." Shanks hugged her back.

Neo opened her eyes and she looked right to Cora. Cora was still sleeping beside her in his warming bed. She smiled. "Sweet baby. I'm back."

"See? Cora is just fine," Law said.

"Yeah." Neo brushed her finger over Cora's hand. His fingers curled around hers. "Did he notice I was gone? I thought of that once I was in the dream world. Me going there might affect him."

"No affect on him at all," Law said. "I doubt you traveling to and from that area will bother him."

"Good." Neo sighed; relieved their baby wasn't disturbed by her leaving like that.

"I assume it went well," Law said.

"It did. Though I really wish Godfather could see Cora."

Law rubbed her back. "They'll meet one day."

Neo nodded. "Yeah."

"In the mean time," Law said. "While you were gone the healer woman said the crew could start coming in now. Are you ready for them to see Cora?"

"Yes!" Neo nodded. "Absolutely! I'm sure they're ready to see Cora!"

"Okay, okay. Settle down. We can start introducing the crew tonight when they get back," Law said. "I'm sure Penguin will be the first to come in."

"He had better be," Neo said. "It feels like it's been months since I saw them last."

"I'll let them know when they get back. For now why don't you take a nap?" Law said.

"I'm not sleepy." Neo looked at Cora. He was still holding onto her finger. More warmth spread out from her chest to her whole body.

"You should still get some rest. And the best time to do that is when Cora's sleeping."

"Fine." Neo shifted into her pillows, keeping her finger in Cora's hand, and relaxed. "But don't blame me when I don't sleep."

"I'll take the dishes back to the galley." Law picked up the tray. "Need anything?"

"More sweet tea?"

"Of course." Law left the room.

Neo lowered the bed back down. Rolling onto her side she watched Cora until her eyelids became heavier. "Darn you, Law." She yawned. "You know me far too well." She closed her eyes.

Neo woke to the sounds of a fussy little fit. Cora was wriggling around in his blanket. "Oh, what's wrong, Cora?"

"He's probably hungry," Law said. He closed his book and stood up. "Want to try and feed him?"
"Yeah, I want to try." Neo summoned a crystal and lifted the head of the bed. She took off her shirt while Law picked Cora up. She took Cora and held him close to her breast. Cora shifted his head towards her breast. Unable to latch on he fussed. Neo tried a couple more times to guide Cora to her but was unable to make it work. She grumbled, "Why can't I do it? What am I doing wrong?"

"Nothing, Neo." Law rubbed her arm. "Cora might not be ready to feed from your breast yet. Remember he was born early. Babies often have a harder time feeding from the breast. Relax. If you're upset he'll sense that and it'll only make things harder."

Neo closed her eyes. She inhaled then exhaled. Her body relaxed. "I know." She tried a couple more times. Cora got his mouth around her nipple but was unable to suckle. When he was unable to feed he got fussier. "I'm sorry, Cora. Let's feed him through the tube."

Law nodded. He left the room for a few minutes then came back with prepumped milk for him.

Neo held Cora close as he took the milk like he had been since he was born. Tears pooled at the corner of her eyes for not being able to feed him yet. She leaned into Law when he sat down side her. With his arm around her shoulders they both watched their son settled down.

A couple hours later Neo was reading a book when someone knocked on the door. She glanced at Cora. He was still sleeping. Law was also asleep in the chair he occupied often when Neo was resting herself. She smiled at her husband. As always he had been more worried about her getting rest than resting himself. She let him sleep. "Yes?"

"It's me," Penguin said. "Can I come in?"

"Of course," Neo said.

The door open and Penguin stepped in. He smiled. "Hey."

"Penguin." Neo noticed he wasn't wearing his kimono. She got off the bed as he walked over to her. He threw his arms around her. His shampoo wafted into her nose, telling her he had just showered. "I've missed you so much!"

"I've missed you, too. I've been so worried. But I know you've been in good hands." Penguin gave her a squeeze before letting go. "Congratulations, Neo. I'm so proud of you."

"Thank you. I'm glad you've finally got to come in here." She pulled him over to Cora. She only released him so she could pick Cora up. She slipped her hands under Cora's small form and lifted him then passed him over to Penguin. "Cora, this is your Uncle Penguin."

"Hey there, little guy." Penguin held Cora firmly to his chest. "Look at you. You look just like the captain. I guess we'll have to call you Mini Captain."

"Don't you dare," Law said.

Penguin chuckled. "Congratulations, Captain."

Law smiled. "Thank you."

Cora fussed.

"What is it, baby?" Neo brushed her fingers over Cora's hair.

"Is he hungry?" Penguin asked.

"No. I think he needs to be changed." Neo unwrapped Cora's blanket and felt his diaper. "Yup. That's it."

"Would you like me to do that?" Law asked.

"No, I'm going to try. I've seen you doing it before." Neo took Cora from Penguin. She placed their baby down in his bed and unwrapped him.

Law got up and got Neo a new diaper and along with some water and a rag.

Neo undid Cora's diaper. Damping the rag she carefully wiped Cora clean as she possible could then examined her work. "Think that's good enough?"

"It's perfect," Law said.

"Are you sure? What if I missed some urine? He might get an infection. He doesn't need that." Neo continued to inspect Cora.

"He won't. Besides he'll need a bath soon. If there is any left it'll come off then," Law said.

"All right." Neo took the new diaper and placed it under Cora then tied into place. "How's that?"
"You can check by slipping your fingers between his skin and diaper." Law slipped his fingers between the diaper and Cora's stomach. "Perfect."

Neo squealed and clapped her hands together. "I did it."

"Still as cute as ever." Penguin chuckled.

An hour later another knock came on the door. Shachi said, "Hey! Penguin! You've had your turn! Get out here so the rest of us can see the new addition to the crew!"

"Oh, fine." Penguin pushed himself off the bed. "I suppose I should leave now."

"Too soon." Neo pouted.

"I'll be back." Penguin patted her head. "It won't be long before Cora can be around all of us at once."

Neo nodded. She watched him go and Shachi come in. "Shachi!" She threw her arms around him. "I've missed you!"

"Missed you, too." Shachi hugged her back.

Neo pulled him over to Cora. Again she picked Cora up and placed him in Shachi's arms. "Say hello to your Uncle Shachi, Cora."

"What a little cutie!" Shachi said. "Hey, Captain, did you look like this when you were a baby?"

"How would I know?" Law shrugged one shoulder.

"Come on. Surely you're parents had some baby photos of you," Shachi said.

"I don't remember." Law dug his finger in his ear.

"You just don't want to say," Shachi grumbled.

Neo giggled, looking into Law's mind she found he did remember. And he did look almost identical to Cora as baby.

"We're going to have so much fun with you," Shachi said.

"You're not teaching him to pick up girls," Law said firmly.

"Don't listen to Daddy," Shachi said in a mock whisper. "Uncle Shachi will show you how to handle girls when you're old enough. They're going to love you. I can tell you're a ladies man."

Neo giggled as Law glared at his subordinate.

Another hour passed. Before they let Bepo come in Neo tried to feed Cora again. When it didn't work they gave him milk through the tube.

"Are you sure it's okay that I come in?" Bepo asked, poking his head in the room. "I showered like Penguin and Shachi. But if it's not okay I can leave."

"Bepo, get your furry white butt in here," Neo said.

"Yes, ma'am." Bepo stepped into the room but didn't move closer.

Neo huffed. Summoning a wind crystal she lifted Bepo off his feet and lowered him next to her. She hugged him. "Stop being so timid! If it wasn't safe for you to come in Healer Zinnia wouldn't have allowed it."

"I'm sorry," Bepo said.

"Shut up and meet Cora." They looked to the baby. "Cora, time to meet your Uncle Bepo. He's a mink."

"So cute." Bepo blushed.

"Want to hold him?" Neo asked.

"No!" Bepo waved his paws. "I only came in to see him."

"It's okay, Bepo. You can hold him," Neo said.

"I don't want to. Not now. Maybe later," Bepo said. "I don't want to hurt him. I'm sorry."

"It's okay." Neo rubbed his arm. "I was nervous too. You can hold him when you feel ready."

Bepo nodded. He stood at Cora's bed and inspected the baby. "I can't believe he's so small. He'll be okay, right?"

"He will," Law said. "We're keeping a close eye on him."

"That's so good," Bepo said. "I'm glad you're okay, Cora. The whole crew has been worried about you."

Neo watched with a smile as Bepo continued to talk to Cora.

"I should go now," Bepo said.

"What? Already? You've only been here for twenty minutes," Neo said.

"I know. But I want to go. I'm still worried I might have something clinging to my fur that might make him sick," Bepo said. "Besides I'm sure Topaz really wants to come in here."

"Okay." Neo sighed. "I'll see you later then."

Bepo waved and left the room. A few minutes later Topaz came in. "Neo! Captain! Congratulations!" She hugged Neo then looked to Cora. "Oh! Such a precious little baby! Can I hold him?"

"Of course." Neo lifted Cora and handed him to her sister.

"You are so adorable!" Topaz cooed. "I bet everyone back on Luminous would be surprised."

"You think so?" Neo blinked. "I suppose I didn't give them the impression of being a mom." She giggled. "All well. I never was a normal girl or royal anyway."

After Topaz left Law pulled out a small bathing tub. Neo blinked at it. It was made of crystal so she knew it came from Luminous. But there was some soft material of some kind inside of it. "What's that?"

"It's a baby bathing tub." Law placed the tub on the foot of the bed. "We're going to give Cora a bath now. If you would fill the tub?"

"Okay." Neo summoned a water and fire crystal. She heated the water and stuck her finger into it. It was a few degrees above lukewarm so she lowered it to lukewarm. "Is that okay?"

Law slipped his finger into the water. "That's fine. Put only a couple inches in the tub."

Neo nodded. As she filled the tub Law picked up two bottles from the counter, placed them down by the tub, and then removed Cora's diaper and clothes. He placed their son in the tub. It reclined so the water was at the bottom mostly.

Law squirted liquid from one of the bottles onto a rag then handed it to Neo.

Neo dipped the rag into the water and rubbed it until bubbles lathered up. She brushed the rag over Cora's body. She smiled when Cora blinked slowly. "He's so relaxed."

"I hope that doesn't mean he'll love the water," Law said. "He'll be wanting to swim all the time."

"Oh, hush." Neo elbowed him. "He can love swimming all he wants. I swam when I felt like it. Besides, I'll be there to protect him. He won't be alone in the ocean."

"Yes, love," Law said.

"There! All done!" Neo said once the bath was over. She lifted Cora from the tub and placed him on a towel that Law put on the bed. She dried him off with the corners while Law threw out the used water. With Cora dressed she sat on the bed and held him, smelling the sweet scent of the body wash and shampoo. She leaned into Law's embrace when he joined them on the bed. He grabbed the baby book and they wrote in it that Cora had his first bath.

Over the next few days the crew continued to come in one at a time, about three to four crewmembers a day, so they could meet Cora.

"I feel so good now that the whole crew has met Cora." Neo stretched out her body before climbing back on the bed. Tucking her feet under her she placed her elbows on her knees and rested her chin in her hands. She smiled as she watched Law and Cora. "You look so cute holding Cora. I knew you'd be a great dad."

Law smiled. "I knew you'd be a great mom."

Neo sighed. "I'll feel like one when I can finally feed him properly."

"I'm sure you'll be able to do it any day now."

"I hope so," Neo said.

Cora fussed.

"Looks like someone's hungry." Law stood.

Neo unbuttoned her shirt. She brushed it and her bra aside then took Cora into her arms. She brought him to her breast. Cora brushed his lips on her skin. She guided him to her nipple. He latched on. Neo gasped. Tiny suckles came from his small mouth. The prickling of pins and needles in her breast confirmed what she knew. She beamed. "He's finally suckling! He's doing it!"

Law smiled. He sat down on the bed and placed his arm around her shoulders. He kissed her temple. "Told you so. You are a wonderful mother."

"I love you so much." Neo looked up at him.

"Love you too." Law pressed his lips to hers.

A couple weeks later Neo sat on the edge of her bed while Healer Zinnia checked Cora over. She couldn't sit still with Cora fussing in frustration of the healer checking him over from head to toe. She fiddled with her fingers, gnawed on her fingernails, kicked her feet back and forth, and shifted constantly. Each time Cora fussed she wanted to jump off the bed and pick him up. It was worse when the healer had to take blood from Cora. He cried at the needle prick. Neo had to all but nail herself to the floor. She knew he wasn't really hurt. He was fine. Still it hurt to see and hear him in pain.

Law slipped his arm around her shoulders, helping to keep her seated. He pulled her to his side, pressing a kiss to her temple.

Kailen, who was standing near Healer Zinnia, was watching the older woman work carefully. He sent an encouraging smile to Neo.

Neo smiled then went back to worrying.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Healer Zinnia smiled. "He's just fine. His weight gaining is steady. And no signs of any more infections."

Neo exhaled. "Thank God! I was so scared I wasn't doing something right!"

"You've done everything just right," Healer Zinnia said. "I'd say you can finally take him out of this room."

"Really?" Neo clasped her hands in front of her chest.

"Yes, Princess," Healer Zinnia said.

Smiling, Neo leaned into Law. "Cora can meet the whole crew at the same time!"

"We still need to keep him as healthy as possible," Healer Zinnia said. "That means avoid taking him around sick people. Absolutely no taking him to the clinic."

"Of course!" Neo nodded. "What about Wano? Will it be all right for him to go on the island? What about the pollution?"

"We'll keep a close eye on him when you take him out. I say on the first day we should only allow him to be outside for about fifteen to thirty minutes to see how he does. Then we'll go from there." Healer Zinnia shoved her hands in her pockets. "We're doing find as long as you heal us on occasion. I think as long as you give him some fresh air to breath and heal him like you do us he'll be just fine."

Neo nodded more. "I'll do my best. So is the crew here?"

"Unfortunately, they had to go back to work," Healer Zinnia said.

"Oh." Neo pouted. "Right. I forgot about that. It's still early in the day. And I still hate them working like this."

"They'll be home in about an hour though," Law said.

"Great! For now we can show Cora around the sub then," Neo said. "And we need to write down all his birth weight and all that stuff."

"Don't worry, love. I've been keeping up with all of that for you." Law nodded to the book lying on the nightstand by the bed. "I knew you'd want me to do that."

"Oh. Good. I almost forgot about it." Neo nodded. She snatched it up. Opening it she scribbled down that Cora was leaving the infirmary on this day and was finally going to see the sub and all of his family at once. Done with it she placed put it back then slipped off the bed. She slipped her hands under Cora and lifted him from the warming bed. "Are you ready to look around, sweet baby? You coming, Law?"

"Of course. I wouldn't miss this for anything," Law said standing up from the bed.

Together they left the room. Coming to the stairs Neo summoned her wind and earth crystals before slowly stepping down.

"You're not going to drop him," Law said.

"Best to be careful," Neo said as she carefully placed one foot on the step below her. "Now don't distract me."

"Yes, love," Law said.

"I did think about flying but I need to get use to carrying Cora since I won't be able to use my wings and crystals all the time." Neo continued her rather slow descend down the stairs.

Law stayed close by, always patient as Neo learned in her own way how to do things with Cora along. After four minutes had passed they landed on the main floor.

"This is the main floor," Neo said moving Cora around to show him the area. "The deck is out that door right there. Unfortunately, there's not much to see out there at the moment. We're underground so our home won't be discovered. And now we're going down another set of stairs to get to the second floor where we have some storage rooms, the laundry room, and our bedroom. We'll go there last. You'll get to see where you're going to sleep."

Law chuckled as Neo told their son about everything they came across, even though it wasn't necessary since Cora didn't understand a word she was saying.

"This is the galley," Neo said. "Your mommy cooks a lot in here. She has help too. So don't worry she might over work herself and not pay attention to you. You'll always be taken care of."

Once Neo had showed Cora everything in the sub she took him to her and Law's room. "And this is where you're going to sleep. Well, for a while anyway. Once you get older you'll get your own room. Or probably share with Bepo."

"Or your mommy will keep you in here with us because she's going to be over protective of you and will never want you out of her sight," Law said.

"Law!" Neo puffed out her cheeks.

Law shrugged. "It's true."

Neo rolled her eyes then stepped over to her Luminous corner. "And these are your grandparents. Unfortunately you'll never be able to meet them or Law's parents. All four of them are gone. But we can tell you about them." She walked over to his crib. "And this is your crib. You're going to sleep in here soon."

"Are you sure Cora will be warm enough? What if he gets too hot or too cold?" Neo asked. Cora laid in his crib, snug in his nightclothes. "What if the mattress isn't soft enough for him? Or what if it's too hard? Will he be able to sleep good enough on it?"

"It's warm enough in here. And his clothes will keep him plenty warm. If he gets uncomfortable he'll let us know." Law wrapped his arms around her waist. He kissed her neck. "He's already asleep so the mattress clearly isn't a problem."

"Maybe I should stay up a while longer with him," Neo said. "He might need something."

"If he needs anything he'll cry for it. He'll be fine, Neo. He's not going to disappear on you or anything. He's in one of the safest places on the planet right now. No one knows we're down here but for the crew, the Straw Hats, and the Wano warriors."

Neo hummed, still uncertain about going to bed.

"Come to bed now. Don't make me use a sedative on you again."

Neo wrinkled her nose at him. "You're so mean. This is Cora's first night in our room. I want him to be as comfortable as possible. He might think we've abandon him if we're not near him."

"He's not going to think that at all," Law said.

"He might."

With a huff Law swooped her off her feet.

"Hey!" Neo struggled to get out of his hold but he held firm. When she realized she wasn't going to get away, not without extreme force that would wake Cora, she stopped struggling and rested her chin on Law's shoulder and kept watching Cora.

"Bedtime for you." Law walked her over to their bed. "No arguing. You two have a long day tomorrow."

"Fine," Neo growled. After a few days of testing Cora in the outside world, Healer Zinnia deemed it safe for Cora to go into town. "But nothing better happen to him. If it does I'll hold you personally responsible."

Law chuckled and placed her on their bed.

Neo shifted over to her side then crawled under their cover while he shut the main light off. Then bed soon sunk with Law's weight. She snuggled to his side, resting her hand on his chest.

The second Cora cried Neo jumped to her feet. Summoning her wings she flew over to the crib and lifted him out. "Hey, it's okay. I'm here." Sitting down in her rocking chair she fed Cora. "There you go."

"You know you don't have to jump like that each time Cora cries. Other than that how are you feeling?" Law stepped out of the bathroom, freshly shaved.

"I'll jump if I want to. A bit sleepy with having to get up so many time to feed Cora," Neo said then yawned. "But I'm glad to be back in our room. I've missed our bed."

"Well, whenever you're ready we can head into town." Law leaned down. He stroked Cora's cheek with his knuckle before stepped over to the closet to dress.

When Cora finished feeding Neo brought him up to her shoulder. She patted his back until she heard him burp. "Good boy." She placed him back in his crib so Law could change his diaper while she dressed. "Ready to go now?"

"Cora's all dressed and so am I," Law said.

"Oh!" Neo squealed when she looked into his crib to find their son dressed in a cute little yellow kimono. "So cute! We have to thank Mao for the kimono."

"We're heading over there now. So we can," Law said.

Neo nodded. With Law's help she put on the sling Kailen and Healer Zinnia brought with them from Luminous. With it draped around her neck and shoulder Law placed Cora into the sling. They left their room.

"Good morning," Basil said when they walked into the galley.

"Morning!" the crew sang.

"Good morning, everyone." Neo sat down with Law.

"And good morning to you too, Cora." Penguin rubbed his fingers through Cora's hair. "How did you sleep last night in your crib?"
"He did fine," Neo said.

"Are you ready to take Cora into town?" Topaz asked.

"As ready as I'll ever be," Neo said. "Though I'm not looking forward to others wanting to hold our baby."

"Just don't zap them with any of your crystals and everything will be fine," Healer Zinnia said.

"And that's why the captain's going with her," Archer said. "To protect the residence of Wano from Neo."

The crew chuckled.

"Hey! I'm not that bad!" Neo said.

"Yes, you are, little sister." Penguin kissed her cheek. "We all know you're not going to like it with strangers paying attention to your baby. Remember how you were with us and the women we showed interested in when you accepted us as your family?"

Neo flushed and wrinkled her nose. "Well, you are my babies. I have to protect you."

"Sure you do." Conner patted her on the head before going to his seat.

"You all are being so mean," Neo said. "Eat your breakfast before I ground you all."

The crew chucked once more before shifting their focus onto their breakfast.

"Have a good day, Neo."

"See you later."

"Don't fry anyone!"

"Bye. You all have a good day too. Stay out of trouble." Neo waved as the crew headed off for their jobs. She sighed with tears threatening to fall. "There they go. Man, why do I still have to be so emotional? I don't want my babies to leave."

"That'll be gone soon. You ready?" Law said.

"I am," Neo said just as Sora came running over. "Hey, you." She bent down so the cat could sniff Cora again. Sora meowed. "Yes, he's just fine. You want to come into town with us? Let's go then."

Neo and Law headed down the hill. Neo watched the ground carefully for anything that might cause her to trip. She kept one wind crystal out, tucked into the sling so no one would see it, so Cora could have fresh air to breath. A few minutes later they stepped into the edge of town. The people bustled around, their words mixing together as they went about their lives. She froze. The town seemed to be over crowded. She wondered if the population increased since she had given birth. She licked her lips.

"Take your time." Law rubbed her back.

"I'm fine. I guess I didn't notice there were so many people here until now," Neo said. "We can go on."

Sora meowed.

"So sweet. Thank you, Sora." Neo slipped her foot from her sandal and stroked the cat.

"What did she say?" Law asked.

"She said she'll bite and scratch anyone if they try to hurt Cora," Neo said.

Law smirked. "Big talk for a small feline."

Sora hissed at him.

"She's a tiger at heart," Neo said.

"All right, Tiger," Law said. "Let's get going."

Neo suppressed a giggle as she and Law finally walked through the town. Watching the people carefully she tensed whenever someone noticed their son. When they did she tightened her arms around him and glared at them until they walked on.

"Look," Law said. "You made it to Mao's shop."

"I didn't even notice," Neo said as Law opened the door. They stepped inside.

"There you are!" Mao smiled as she rushed over to them. "I have been so worried about you. O-Topaz has kept us well informed." She looked at Cora. "So this is your sweet babe?"
"Yes." Neo tensed for a moment before relaxing. Mao was her friend. Mao was trustworthy. Sora meow and rubbed against Neo's leg. "This is Corazon. We call him Cora."

"Corazon." Mao pressed her hands to her chest. "That is such a sweet name. What a handsome fellow. How are you handling things as a new mother?"

"I'm adjusting," Neo said. "Things are more rushed now that Cora is feeling better and growing."

"I am glad he is," Mao said.

"O-Neo!" Chiya said from behind them. "You have finally come back to the town. I am so happy to see you out and about." She rushed over to them with Haruhi following at a slower pace. "So this is your son? He is so cute. May I hold him?"

"No!" Neo snapped. She pulled back from the women and held Cora protectively to her as she pressed into Law's side. Thunder rumbled outside.

"How rude," Haruhi said.

"Neo is justified in her actions," Law said slipped his arm around Neo's waist. "She's protective of our son. And he was born early. So having a bunch of strangers hold him now would not be good for his health."

"Oh, of course." Chiya bowed. "Forgive me, O-Neo. I was being very inconsiderate."

Neo nodded stiffly, still holding Cora protectively against her. She sensed Law forcing back a chuckle.

"Well, we only stopped by to say thank you for the kimono you made for Cora," Law said.

Neo's body relaxed at his words. She had forgotten that's the main reason they had come to Mao's shop. "Yes. Thank you so much. It is very cute. Cora loves it."

"I am glad," Mao said. "I was worried it might not fit him."

"It is big on him but he'll grow into it," Neo said. "That way he'll be able to wear it for a while longer."

"Yes, of course." Mao nodded.

"We should be heading back now," Law said. "We only wanted to take Cora for a walk."

"We understand," Mao said. "We hope you will visit at a later day. It is has been a bit boring without you around, O-Neo."

"We'll be back for sure," Neo said. "See you later."

Law guided Neo out of the shop.

"That was so intense," Neo said. The storm she had summoned was rolling away from them, letting the sunshine back down on the island. "I should have known Chiya would ask to hold Cora."

"Think you'll let anyone outside of the crew, Straw Hats, and your godfather's crew hold Cora?" Law asked.

"Never," Neo said.

Law chuckled. "I figured you'd say that."

"Well, I'd let Momo hold Cora," Neo said. "Think he's old enough to do that? Oh! And the minks! I trust the minks."
"He's old enough. If you want him to hold Cora then you can let him," Law said. "All we have to do it make sure his arms are secure and he's sitting down."

Neo hummed. "Maybe we should make a trip to the beach one day. The minks would love to see Cora."

"We could go tomorrow if you wanted," Law said. "Or we could go right now."

"Let's go now. At least for a while," Neo said. "I'm not ready yet to go back inside."

"Feeling a bit of withdrawal from nature?"

"Yes." Neo nodded. "I need a nature pick me up."

"Then we'll go," Law said as they climbed the hill that led to the castle ruins. They verge off towards the forest.

Sora spotted movement and took off in a stalking crouch.

"We'll be at the beach for a while, Sora," Neo said. "Come there when you're done hunting."

Sora flicked her tail before disappearing behind a bush.

Concealed in the trees Neo summoned a few more wind crystals and carrying them to the beach.

"Garchu, Neo!" Wanda walked over. She licked Neo on the cheek before nuzzling against Cora's cheek. "Garchu, sweet baby."

"Wanda, this is Cora," Neo said.

"Cora," Wanda said. Other minks gathered around. They greeted their guests with plenty of "Garchu" before settling back down.

"Is Momo here?" Neo looked around, unable to find the boy.

"He went off with his retainers this morning to train," Wanda said.

"Oh," Neo said. "I see."

"How are you all doing?" Inuarashi asked.

"A lot better now that Cora is healthier," Neo said. She created them some flower chairs and sat down. "Isn't he just the cutest?"

"He is." Inuarashi nodded. "You two have sired a fine offspring."

"Thank you." Neo beamed.