Strong(One Piece x Reader)[EDITING IN PROGRESS]

A Mother's Love

Now, where is Shanks?

It's been a few days since you left Karé, perhaps a week has already passed but you haven't been tracking time very well. Stopping by other islands to check if him and the others are there only to leave with disappointment.

Your injuries are getting better, the bruises and cuts you received from that captain are all mostly just scabs and lightened. The deep gash to your left leg is more a dull ache than sharp pain each time you put weight on it, the skin still healing. But the salves are definitely helping from the people of Karé, the healing far more advanced than what you would have without said salves.

The salves also helped with something else too...

"Grab this as well Toa (Y/N)!"  Aiko called to you, holding a pot of more salves in her hands.

You looked at it with a raised brow. You didn't think they would give you more stuff.

"What's this for?" You asked, as you grabbed the pot. "I already got that healing stuff from the doctor."

"Oh no, it's not that," Aiko answered easily, a kind smile on her lips before she darted her eyes around before getting closer to your ear. You leaning in automatically as she cupped her hand around your ear. "It helps to stop hair growth. I see you've started to have some issues."

"..."

Aiko continued to stare at you kindly.

You couldn't help but truly notice and take note the only hair she had was the one on her head. And how the others were the same.

You blankly stared at your arms, pushing the sleeve up and started to spot some hair stubs.

"...thanks." You said with a twitching brow and smile.

Your face grew heated at the mere memory, clenching the bridge of your nose.

"Ugh...it's not my fault all these people have skin like babies..." You plopped down harshly with crossed arms. "That explains why everyone there had nothing though..." you muttered to yourself as you sailed in the vast ocean.

You discovered the pains of growing up and beauty standards with Kalifa. Showed you the pains of waxing. You yelping as she mercilessly and practically took the skin of your leg off, her glasses flashing. But you'll take waxing over having to shave every day! So freakin annoying!

And at least with these salves, it's painless. Aiko mentioned they last about the same time as wax from what you understood. Albeit a little longer. The amount you have should last you a few months.

You couldn't help but let out a downtrodden sigh, you're sure you could see the large puff of cloud from the action even though it wasn't cold at all.

"Hah...at least they gave me those spices though," you plopped fully down atop the raft, the sun high and above with your cap helping shadow your eyes. Kuroi ten'nosabaki managing to stay determinedly on your small mast along with Karasu on the other side of it. "They're worth a pretty penny in those other islands. At least I won't have to worry about that for awhile."

It seems although Karé is hard to get through due to the rough waves, they are truly cherished for their spices around the islands of the East Blue. It made sense. From what you gathered in the drawings of that large slab of stone Mokoko took out for you, even islands back than liked Karé's spices.

It seems that people only know about their spices. Based on your interactions and Beli's being eagerly slapped onto your hands for even a small pouch of those spices, no one seemed to know how far back the history of Karé goes. The Beli's only growing to a mountain on your hand with each island. They really must be famous though because woah!

You can picture Mayor's proud wrinkled face, his cane to your face as he says that he told you that the Pride of Karé is nothing to scoff at. And the young stubborn Azu having her own prideful gleam at her eyes at the news of others wishing for their spices, even if she states that he didn't say that people scoffed at it.

You huffed at the image, wondering to yourself how you didn't hear of Karé beforehand when you were in Loguetown before you turned your focus back into what's important.

The past is the past.

Shanks mentioned a boy. Somewhere in this sea. You lifted the panel to go down below in your little raft, reaching for your bag that Kokoro gave you and pulled out a map. Only to sigh in frustration at what you saw as you put it back. Figures. It's only some islands in the Grand Line. This won't help me. How long does it take to make a world map?

Wait. Did Shanks even say it was this sea?

You put your head to your hands, rubbing the cap and therefore making your hair underneath a mess as you kept doing it.

"I...don't have a good memory..."

Kuroi ten'nosabaki, if it could, would release a sigh. Instead, only a gleam in an odd shape of a sweatdrop appeared due to the angle of the sun. Karasu stayed silent, glinting gloomily.

First you completely forgot money and now you don't even remember that Shanks said the East Blue or not? Do you suffer from short term memory or something?!

No, it has to be the East Blue.

You put a finger to your forehead, thinking deeply and complete concentration with brows deeply furrowed.

...is it?

You shook your head, only to spot an island in the distance. You squinted at it, before taking out the spyglass that Kokoro gave you. You able to see a lush mountainous island that had a large port. A familiar one too.

It's...you lowered the spyglass, tightening your hold around it as you faced the island you never went back to since you left. On a ship with Garp and Smoker to accomplish your dream. Loguetown.

Where you were born. Where you lived. With your mom.

Before she got sick...before...

You swallowed before your jaw clenched, closing the spyglass strongly and turning your back to it.

I don't need to go there. You went to fix the sail on the mast, hands tugging rope, eyes hidden under a MARINE cap. I don't want to risk seeing those old kids faces. Or even those adults from back than that isolated me. Besides, it has a heavy marine presence now. I need to stay low. I need to find Shanks.

I need...

Your mind flashed to when you were in Karé. How the Mayor states that Karé can help others feel like it's home, just have to smell it. And for just a moment, you felt like you smelled your old house—of wood and earth. And then, the sweet but calm scent of vanilla, you being embraced by it when you were smaller and reassuring words to your ears. Of elegant slender hands different from your now calloused ones weaving through your hair strands, of kisses and playful bites to the cheek as small fists scramble and you wiggling away at the feeling.

You thought of the mother and child in Karé, how affectionate, the head rubs and wide smiles around and the father that wrapped his arms around both.

I need...wait what?

You focused back onto the present, seeing you were sailing right towards Loguetown despite your thoughts.

I shouldn't come here. There's nothing here. You clenched your hands around the ropes, biting your inner lip as you drew closer and closer to the island. To your home.

You sailed and made sure to land a bit away from the port if the off chance the marines somehow know your inconspicuous raft belongs to you—a deserter.

You quickly darted your eyes around, before grabbing a cloak with a hood on a drying line of a house and putting it on.

You stepped out into the Main Square of Loguetown, people bustling and stores calling for customers and deals, with the execution stand high and above in the middle of it all. Your (e/c) eyes taking all of it, the various scents of food coming to your nose, and people brushing past you as you could only stare as you walked.

It's been how long? I'm twenty two now so...its been sixteen years...You stopped, turning your head to a certain side street and going through it, making turns every which way and going downstairs to the lower level of town. I wonder if it's still there.

Your black boots scuffed the dirt underneath you as you came to a stop, your hooded eyes up towards a raggedy old sign of a bar that has seen better years. Highlighting the name in awkward cursive:  Gold Roger.

You passed by the two curtains that beheld a typical Jolly Roger that were the doorway to the bar, only to kick open the planked saloon door to enter.

"What the—I don't need any rude customers here. Unless you're paying. But no need to kick my door open!" A weathered voice stated from behind the bar counter, you turning your gaze to meet a smaller back than you remember. And a smaller stature as the bar owner cleaned his shot glasses with a cloth, purple beanie clear even in the darkened bar as he muttered to himself. "Pirates are always rude but they're the best for my business...no respect for who gives them their swine nowadays...Now," he turned towards your hooded cloaked form that was across the counter, "what would you like—(Y/N)?!"

As he spoke, you pulled your hood back to reveal your face, a nostalgic small smile pulling your lips.

"Hey, Raoul. It's...been some time hasn't it?"

Raoul, the old bar owner that's had this same bar since you could remember in respects to Gol D. Roger and still with that same old purple beanie and small round shaded glasses atop his nose, stared at you. His gaze going from your black boots to your marine cap and focusing on your left now scarred cheek that is still healing.

"..."

"..."

"...are we going to stand here in silence or—" You caught a thrown shot glass your way, your face twisted into a scowl, a tick on your temple. "What was that for?!"

"Heh," Raoul smirked, crossing his arms as he leaned on the bar counter. "Looks like you still remember your lessons from old Raoul. Took you long enough."

Your gaze cleared, you sitting on a high chair in front of the bar counter and putting the shot glass top down.

"It's not my fault you threw shot glasses at me and you broke them."

"I was testing your fight or flight," Raoul grumbled, grabbing the shot glass and cleaning it with a cloth as he kept his stare on you, eyes in the past. "You always chose flight each time you dodged them and of course you had to clean up the mess since you didn't understand the lesson. You chose to come here despite all the shot glasses thrown at you, so I guess in the end you chose fight."

"You had good food..." you mumbled to the table but Raoul heard you, flashing you a proud smile at the words. You couldn't help but do the same as you looked around the weathered bar. "Thought you said at first a kid like me wasn't supposed to be in a place like this so that's why you were trying to throw me out."

"I remember you proclaiming that you were going to be a marine," Raoul recalled, brow arched before shaking his head. "You think that would be good for business? In a pirate bar? Besides, it became more than that didn't it? After—" Raoul stopped abruptly but you can guess what he was implying, his expression turning regretful while you focused on a part of the bar counter.

You can spot the place where you stabbed your first kebab stick deeply into the table, you rubbing the spot with the tips of your fingers, the indentation clear. You remember Raoul complaining that he would have to fix it now but...it's still here.

"After my Mama got sick," you finished for him, voice distant.

Raoul threw you a sympathetic look, like how he did all that time ago.

"It wasn't your fault, kid. Remember? She...she didn't mean for this. She loved you," Raoul said kindly, earnestly.

"Be patient. It'll be worth it. Just wait."

Your lips trembled but you bit them to try to stop it, eyes burning and hand at your lap clenching at your cloak.

"I know."

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Loguetown 18 Years Ago—2 Years Before Gol D. Roger Turned Himself In and Before Silver Blood Ever Met Smoker or Garp

Footsteps much lighter than they are now, stomped and ran to a quaint little home that seemed more like a cottage due it's size. A home in the outskirts of Loguetown and instead within the woods yet able to lookout towards the sea. A perfect location.

If it weren't for losers!

"Mama!" You whined in your childish four year old speech, practically slamming open the door and startling your mother who was cooking to gaze towards you and your dirtied form. Dirt and dust on your cheek along with scrapes, even on your dress that mama got for you! "Those—those jerks keep—are trying to make fun of me! And you! Us! They're stupid, stupid, stupid!"

Mama, always patient and always kind and always seemed to have a cooking apron approached you with concern, her hands upon your face and wiping away the dirt.

"Now, now (Y/N)! What did we say about name calling?"

You grumbled something incoherently, wide child eyes stubbornly glaring at the floor.

"What was that?" Mama implored, a smile on her face as she wiped another stain of dirt on your face with a wet thumb she licked. You scrunched your face when she rubbed it and leaned back.

"Ew! Don't do that, Mama!" Mama laughed, saying an apology before she gave you an expectant look. Your shoulders dropped as you muttered, "To not call others what we do not wish to be called upon. B-But! Those kids are saying that their parents won't sell stuff to us! Like things and stuff! Food o-or clothes or anything!"

"They're just being cruel, (Y/N)," Mama said, although you saw her eyes looked a bit disturbed from your words. Which she should be! How can they not sell them stuff?! Jerks! "They'll turn around once you show them who you truly are." Truly am? Mama smiled, hand to your cheek as you could only have a troubled frown. "You have to prove to them you're more than what they say. And to not start the fight would help."

"But they said stuff first!" You complained.

"Don't you always throw the first punch," Mama arched a brow, before splaying her hand and putting each finger down as she went on. "Or kick. Or stick. Or rock. Or—"

"I GET IT!" You shouted, cheeks oddly colored. You don't know why! But Mama's smile looks teasing. "They're just...grrrr... I don't like them! I don't have friends! Not like everyone else does."

Mama stared at you a moment, your eyes down to the ground as your fists clenched to your dress. You felt a warmness to your forehead, eyes roving up just as your Mama pulled away, her hand roving through your hair and rubbing your head affectionately. It felt nice. You liked it when she did that. Not that you would say.

Embarrassing!

But Mama seems to know everything because she just smiled softly at your blatantly pleased expression that is not at all hidden.

"You'll find someone. Anyone. Whether a friend or something else." Mama put a strand behind your ear, touch bringing you calmness despite what happened a few minutes ago. Her smile helped too. "You're my daughter. Be patient. It'll be worth it. Just wait."

Mama said to you it's time for dinner so you sat in their small dinner table that always had three chairs despite only being the two of you. But you kept thinking of her words.

I'm her daughter. That means I'm amazing, right? Will I find...someone like Papa for me?

You don't know why, but the thought made your food in your stomach feel funny.

It felt queasy.

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It was shopping time with Mama, which means you get to look around and look at the plaza!

You and Mama's house were on the outskirts of Loguetown, within the deep and thick forest that surrounds the town. A nice little house that Mama calls a humble red roofed cottage, all warm and welcoming with a chimney for a fireplace and smells like home. You've never been to someone else's house before so you don't really know what that last part means. You and Mama only go out for shopping when Mama doesn't feel like fishing or when they need something, like spices to make food better. Although some of the people in Loguetown are stupid and jerks, you still like the busyness of the plaza with its water fountains and cobblestoned paths and the different scents of food.

The both of you were inside a store right now, Mama wishing to get new clothes for you with the money Papa sends over with a special News Coo. You don't quite understand how Papa makes a News Coo deliver money to you guys instead, not how Mama explains that Papa has a way with animals either. But it's fine.

You were looking at all the clothes around the store. They even had hats! You were by Mama's side as she was comparing and humming to herself Bink's Sake like she always does when she's happy, but something...was wrong...

Why is it quiet in a store?

You looked around, only to spot the owner glaring at the two of you. You flinched, instinctively grabbing Mama's pants.

Mama looked down at you.

"(Y/N)? Don't worry, I'm almost done. But which one do you like better?" Mama had two dresses out for you to pick but you didn't care. You don't want to be here. You looked at the other people in the store and they were glaring down at you, narrowed eyes in heavy judgement.

You jabbed a finger at one without looking.

"That one! Let's go, Mama! I-I'm bored!"

You don't know why you lied. Maybe cause Mama is nice and doesn't see the jerks around them.

But you know better. The times you've gone out to play by yourself when Mama was cooking or telling you to try to make friends. How people look at you. How they treat you.

You know something bad is going to happen!

You have to get Mama out of here too!

Mama blinked, looking at you with concern and then at the dress you chose and put it in her arms along with everything else she had. The designs were quite expensive looking, you think. But Papa sends enough money for them to live nicely. Or that's what Mama says.  Mama says to be thankful for everything they have too and be polite when receiving things.

You're still working on that...

You kept your hold on your Mama's pants as they went to the counter to the receptionist. You turned your gaze up to the receptionist, seeing how his lips seemed to sneer when Mama put the clothes on his counter.

You bit your lip, trying to decide whether to take Mama out of here or maybe throw the dresses at the man instead. Only for Mama to smile and take out her purse.

"I would like all of these please."

The man looked at the Beli's Mama took out her purse, his eyes turning contemplative. Only for it to harden once more when he looked down at you, his lips forming a smile even though he looked like he didn't mean it.

"I'm sorry. These aren't for sale at this time."

Mama's smile faltered.

"I—what do you mean, sir? You had them out in the store, in the racks. I have enough money to pay for them."

"Money isn't the issue," the man stated coldly.

Mama paused, looking at the man's stern expression and than turning her head to look at the other customer's in the store. Either ignoring what was happening or giving them glares.

Those kids were right, you realize, your skin feeling cold. They're not going to sell us anything!

You tugged at Mama's pants.

"Mama, come on! I don't need clothes! I like my clothes!"

Something in Mama's face hardened. Her hand grabbing yours tightly as they went out the store.

"I'm going to get you clothes, (Y/N)! Someone will sell to us!" Your eyes were wide as Mama pulled you along, looking at Mama's determined expression. Woah, she could be cool! "I'm getting you nice clothes if it's the last thing I do!"

Never mind. Shopping isn't cool!

Due to you being lost in thought with a soured expression, you did not hear Mama's whispered words as they walked through the plaza.

"Silver gave us this to use, to help since he can't be here...I need to show you, (Y/N)..."

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"Oh, those clothes are actually reserved for traveling nobles that are coming to pick it up."

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"Sorry. No kids are allowed in the store so she'll have to wait outside. Best as a parent to just go find somewhere else, right?"

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"We actually don't have anything her size."

"I have her size right here...!"

"Sorry, I'm going to have to take that or report you for disturbance of the peace."

"...!"

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"I'll just take those clothes off your hands. I must've forgotten these are meant for a special clearance later on this month."

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"I'm sorry, we—"

"Why are all of you doing this?!" Mama's voice cracked, sounding hurt. "There is no reason not to sell to us! We have the money and we did not do anything to be treated like this!"

You looked up at Mama, her expression looking...not sad, not angry. But a mix of the two, somewhere in the middle with how her eyebrows met together and how her eyes looked in pain. She looked tense, and—as you looked around the store—everyone was looking over here. When your eyes met the other customers, their eyes would narrow. You turned away, looking down and tightening your hold on Mama's pants that you sure your hand will fall off from the force.

"Mama," you muttered to the floor, but Mama didn't hear you. Only looked at the man who owned the store who had a smile that didn't match his face.

"Now now, there's no need to raise a fuss." The man's words were polite, but you couldn't help but feel he was making fun of your Mama with his he said it. It seemed to slither against your skin and made you tense even more. "I know you aren't originally from here, miss. But there's certain...aspects in this town we disapprove of. Not to say we disapprove specifically to you either. Just..." the man's eyes flickered to you, you spotting in your peripherals how his nose subtly wrinkled. You felt Mama's tense leg under your fist, staying as his gaze went back to Mama and he had that weird smile again. "The company you keep."

"...what?" Mama uttered in disbelief, more shocked than anything. The insinuation clear and she couldn't believe her ears.

He's not only speaking of Silver. But of...(Y/N)?

Your gaze rose at your Mama's face, only to still.

Mama...!

"We have a certain respect we must uphold in our establishments in this town." The man continued, your skin crawling as the other patrons nodding along. Other kids just following what the stupid adults are doing. "And based on who our past deplorable once citizen, no offense to you of course, holds company with in the seas...we just can't let another—"

"RAGH!"

Your tense fist you had around Mama's pants all this time met the man's triangle shaped nose with a crunch. The man let out a pained cry., backing up and holding his bleeding nose as gasps echoed in the store. You hanging over the counter as you kicked your legs to get on top to get another hit. Face feral and scowling and body shaking.

"(Y/N)...!" Your mother called out, eyes wide and hands to her mouth.

"What a savage child!" A citizen called from outside, hearing the commotion as others did exclamations.

"Completely feral, a demon!"

"Pirate spawn really are devils, look at that face!"

"The poor mother having to deal with that...although she brought it on herself—"

"SHUT UP!" The crowd looked over, seeing you were now atop the counter, a bloody fist and eyes alight. "Shut up, shut up, shut up, shut up! You!" You pointed at the man, turning back towards you with a dangerous glare and bleeding face, triangle nose bent to the side similar to how cans bend. "You made Mama cry!" Mama gasped, moving a hand to her cheeks that is dry. But you saw how her eyes looked. Red and water filled. No one hurts Mama! "I—You—No one can make Mama cry! No one! I-I'll—" You didn't know what to say.

You were just so angry. Mama doesn't deserve this. She's nice. But everyone here isn't! And! And!

Your eyes shone, a glint. A fire.

A Fate sealed.

"I'll become a marine to arrest all of you! For being mean to me and Mama!"

Mama's eyes widened, jaw dropping. The crows was silent before some started laughing.

Your small fists clenched at your sides, their laughs grating your ears. Even that stupid triangle nose man was sneering at you.

"A pirate offspring can't be a marine!" The man said matter of factly. Like he knew anything!

He's just being dumb!

"It's unheard of!" Another person called, a chuckle leaving their lips along with the kid by their hand. Cause monkey see, monkey do. "They'll arrest you before they come get us."

"Especially if it's a savage one like you," a woman called out.

Other people were saying other stuff. Your mother's soft words unable to stop them, too subdued due to her shock of your words. Demons. Trash. Pirate offspring. Of jail. Of monsters.

If anything, your blood just boiled even more underneath your skin. You felt more sure than ever. Of anything in your whole life.

"I'll be the strongest one!"

No one can tell you anything or get you if you were the strongest. And Mama and you will be safe. But you're only four, so you didn't know how to say everything without being tongue tied.

"You?" The man you punched asked, sounding he was talking from his nose, which was still crooked. His lips moved and it seemed to be crooked too. "A girl?"

You don't get what that has to do with anything. But you answered easily nonetheless.

"I'll become the strongest girl one in there to show you—you—you ugly rat face!" You ended clumsily and a stomp of your foot atop the counter.

The man's face reddened. You think he looked like an apple. If it got stepped on.

He looked funny. And it made you feel better.

"W-what?! Why you—!"

"Rat face! Small brain! Stupid head!" You continued, before sticking your tongue out and pulling an eyelid down in mockery. "Blehhhhhh!"

His head started to get steam, and he lunged towards you. Only for your body to be wrapped around a warm body. Your small body instantly relaxing due to the familiar hold. Safe.

Only for your Mama to bow her head as she was holding you.

"P-please forgive us! This won't happen again! Excuse me!"

Your face twisted into confusion and disbelief. Not fading even as your Mama ran out the store and not when she let you go when they arrived at an alley still lit by the daylight but shaded nonetheless. And not even when she kneeled before you with a hand to your shoulder and your cheek.

"Oh my, (Y/N)! Are you alright?! Let me see here," she picked your bleeding knuckles from the man. But it was his blood. Not yours. Why did she apologize? "(Y/N), you can't, can't do that again! I've told you to stop fighting. I was fine. You don't have to protect me—"

"No."

Mama blinked.

"No? No about what?"

You pressed your lips and stared at her.

"No."

I will protect you. I will.

Mama must've saw something in your eyes, because she let out a sigh and shook her head.

"(Y/N)...you don't have to become a marine. You do know—you remember your father is a pirate, right?" You didn't say anything. You only kept staring. Yet, your fists clenched around your dress. Tight. "(Y/N)...Silver worked hard for us, you know that, right? He loves us. He can't send letters with the money he gives us due to the risk of marines tracing it back, so maybe you don't know. The risks he takes to give us these beli's are proof of how much he cares for us. We're fine! You don't need to do anything. I know you have your father's kindness but please, stop worrying." Mama gave you a comforting smile as she cupped your cheek.

It didn't work though.

Your eyes only shone brighter, burning hotly. Making Mama look at you with concern and a finger going under your eye as she asked what was wrong.

I can protect you. I beat people up. I don't know how to fish good yet or clean or cook but I help. I help. I can handle everything. I'm strong. I can do it.

I'm here.

"No." You say again, trying not to cry. Because Mama doesn't believe in you. She mustn't because she thinks like this. That you can't do it! That has to be it!

You lurch back from her touch, betrayed.

Mama's face looked hurt and defeated all at once as she tried to reach you.

"(Y/N), please—!"

"No!"

You ran. You ran even as Mama called for you. You ran along the alleys and taking lefts and rights, tears on your cheeks and sniffling loudly. Not being aware of how Mama's voice sounded broken and just how much she cried out for you. But you're small and you're fast.

So you go. And go and go and go.

Away from everyone. Away from everything.

You stop where there's barrels against the walls in a backstreet, hiding in between them and trying to stop sniffling. Small chubby hands trying to clear from the globs of tears and snot going down your face and onto your dress. One of the only dresses you have now.

The throughly of all the stores from earlier made you sob even as you grew angry. You're angry! Why do you cry when you're angry?!

You thought of Mama's words and remembered, breath stuttering in your chest as you bit your lips.

I want to protect Mama. Why doesn't she believe me? Your body shook, your knees pressed against your chest as you cried and whimpered. Your mind went to the man you punched in the face, the way he said that you wouldn't be able to. And he said the word girl weird too. Does Mama think only Papa can be strong? No. I'll show everybody! I'll be a marine—strongest girl one too! I'm not like Papa!

A door opened, making your thoughts stutter to a stop and your breath hitch. You didn't realize the barrels were by a door.

"Ah, shit. How is there this much of a mess when it's only barely past noon?" A voice questioned, a man's voice. Sounded older too. And annoyed. "Pah, whatever. Money is money. And it's good for business. If only pirates knew how to clean themselves."

Pirates? Your breath hitched again, stopping at your throat. Mama said that not all pirates are like Papa and that's why everyone hates them. But...maybe...?

"Hm? I thought I heard something..." Your heart was battering against your small chest. You don't want to be caught. "Mmm... must be nothing than." You heard a rummage, an opening of the trash can on your other side. And a sharp plop as if something was put in and the top to be closed again. You heard the door open and close, your shoulders relaxing and a breath of relief escaping your lips.

A harsh tug on the collar of your dress made you gasp. You hanging by the hold of the back of your collar to be met with small rimmed glasses and glaring brown eyes.

"Ha! Finally caught one of you pranksters—wait." Brown eyes behind those small glasses blinked. "A kid? You're not—"

Your surprise fell, and just as easily as you hung on the collar of your dress, you turned into a jumble of attacking limbs. Smacking and kicking the man as he flinched and did a yelp.

"Let go! Leggo! Leggo!" You said in your childish speech, eyes tightly closed. You felt your fist connect to his too small glasses and felt like you should do what you did to the store owner you punched. "Your head is too big for your glasses! You're like—like—like a table!"

It sounded stupid to your own ears. But that's all you could think of.

"Ow! Wha—HEY! Stop punching and kicking me, ya brat!" He shook you, hard and harsh and the action made you dizzy. You were hanging by the collar again, eyes spinning as the man fixed his glasses properly on his nose. His purple hat looking like swirls as you tried to blink. "You can't be one of the prankster turds that always egg my bar sign...you're too young. Wait. Were you crying? Where's your parents?"

You managed to stop making your eyes spin. But you kept your gaze down, stubborn and tight lipped. Clearing your face with the back of your hand, as if it would erase the evidence of your red eyes, dried tears on your cheeks, and the wetness of the front of your dress.

The man assessed you. Palmed his face with his free hand with a loud exasperated sigh before he opened the door again.

"You're lucky all my customers left. Come on. Let's give you some water and something to eat until your parents get here."

You didn't say anything. Only looked at the man as he brought you in, still by the collar as they walked in and you saw what looked like a restaurant. Filled with tables and chairs and a counter with very high chairs in front too. He sat you atop of one of the high chairs gently, before quickly getting a glass of water and bringing it to you.

You kept your stare at him. The man's eyebrow arched.

"You gonna keep staring at me all day, kid, or are ya gonna take a breather?" Your stare didn't falter, your brows only coming together as he spoke. The man scratched at the back of his purple hat, which was snug on his head. You noticed he looked strong too. "Ah. Stranger danger and all that. My name is Raoul. See? Not strangers anymore. Now your water as I fix something up for you until your parents get you. I'm sure they aren't far." Then he muttered too lowly where you couldn't make the words, "I better hope they aren't. I got shit to do. Worthless parents..."

You don't understand.

"Why?"

The man, Raoul, brows arched farther.

"Why? Why what?"

You looked down at the bar counter, staring at the patterns of the wood.

"Why...are you helping me?"

What the hell? Raoul thought with a frown. What has this kid gone through? To ask something like that. Why aren't you more concerned I have you instead of helping you?

Raoul shrugged, all casual and easy as  he turned his face away but kept an eye on you.

"You're a kid."

It wasn't much an answer, but it seemed to satisfy you as you jerked your head back towards him, eyes wide. You blinked, and grabbed your water and drank hearty sips until you were done.

Raoul grinned, grabbing the empty cup and refilling it, handing it back to you.

"Thirsty, eh? I would be too if I looked like you, kid." You frowned at him at the reference of your crying but he only smiled. You were glaring at him as you were drinking a glass after all. It made your eyes crooked. "I'll be back. Let me fix you something up."

Raoul left to the back, to what you guessed was the kitchen because a mouth watering smell started to encompass the bar. It took away that smell you couldn't place that tickled your nose. You guessed it was those bottles that were in front of you behind the counter. There were a lot of different ones. And sizes.

The pictures in some of them looked kind of cool.

Your eyes focused on one that had a pirate ship and a pile of beli's up on the front. The pirate ship having a face that was smiling on the sails.

You turned your face away at it. Your stomach clenching.

You saw something in your vision and turned towards it, only for your eyes to shoot open in surprise and confusion.

"What?" Raoul questioned at your look at what was in his hand and waiting for you to take it. "Oh. You've never seen this, kid? You eat it like that. Just mind the pointy end." He said in humor.

You stared at the stick with meat/veggies that were stabbed in it, juices and smell making your stomach eager. But...ready to eat just like that...?

"I...I don't need a plate? Or...anything? A fork?"

"No." Raoul presented it you, pointing with his free hand at it and moving the stick easily this way and that. Without falling! "See? It's a kebab. You eat it just like this and there's nothing to clean up. Easy to throw away and walk around with. You can eat it anywhere and no one will bat an eye. Impressive, kid?"

Raoul doesn't think it's all that amazing. It's meat/veggies on a stick. But with your shining eyes and your face seemed so eager, he couldn't help but tease you a tad.

His teasing smile fell when you swiped at it and took a hearty bite though. You ignoring his "Oi!" and how his veins looked like they throbbed, only chewing and tasting.

Your eyes practically sparkled at Raoul, it made him squint and have to adjust his glasses better.

"Cool!" And it was cool. Nothing you have to clean up, nothing you accidentally break like plates due to you trying to clean and making Mama upset at you or giving you those pats on your head that it's okay when it wasn't when she would make that face. You don't have to clean up anything! And you can eat it anywhere! Playing and eating?! The thought made you tear at the kebab only for you to pierce your cheek. "Ow!"

"I told you to mind the pointy end you bra—I mean, kid!" Raoul shouted. "Hey, slow down!"

You ate it quickly, not caring of the copper taste in your mouth. You beat the clean stick against the bar counter repeatedly in beat with your words of "More! More! More!"

"HEY! Not on the counter, ya little shit—I mean, kiddo! Here!" He presented you another one. You guess he made more than one. Awesome!

And you ate that one quickly too, cheeks still full as you stated "More!" as you stabbed at the counter again.

"SWALLOW BEFORE YOU ASK!"

Nonetheless, he gave you another each time you asked. Him having to go back in the kitchen to make three more before you were done.

You smiled, teeth and all and kebab evidence stuck in between at Raoul.

"You're not that bad. You're cool! I won't arrest you."

Raoul made a noise of disgust, grabbed the stick that was in your tiny hand and jabbed it in your mouth quickly as you were speaking. Making you yelp more of surprise than pain. Raoul didn't hit anything.

"Clean your teeth! That's what the sticks are for too!" Your face brightened at another thing you can do with these magic kebabs, although you didn't get what he meant. Raoul, seeing your look, grabbed a clean stick from his side of the counter and picked his teeth with it. "Like that. Now, use it. What kind of kid are you anyways...?" He muttered lastly, you not hearing him once more as you did what he said. And oh! You can still taste some residue juice from the meat/veggies too! You rolled the stick carefully around your mouth happily, legs kicking in front of you, stick protruding from your mouth. You kind of feel cool with this. "Wait...what did you say? Did you say arrest? What are you talking about?"

"I'ma gonna beah marine when I growuh," you stated around the stick clumsily.

"..."

"..."

You blinked in confusion at his blank expression.

"Uh—" The stick in your mouth was taken with haste, along with all the sticks around you and thrown into the trash. "Hey! What are you doing?!" You grabbed a stick that he missed only for his hand to clasp around your wrist. You looked up at Raoul, and stood still.

"Listen, kid. Do you know where you are right now?" Raoul asked cooly. It made your hair stand up. "This is a pirate bar. You're lucky none of my customers are here to hear you say that. They'll make bets on who would kill you first."

You scrunched your face.

"You're here. They're not. You make no sense, Ra...Rool...Rashloo." You frowned, wondering if you said it right before thinking of just the right one. Brightening as you stated it with confidence. "Rara!" Raoul's darkened face lifted, his eyes wide behind small glasses. You kept going, frowning at him again. "And I'll arrest them too. But you're okay, Rara."

"I WAS TALKING ABOUT YOU!" He raged, spit going everywhere and making you do noises of disgust even as he shook you with hands on your small shoulders. Why is he so mad? "This is a pirate bar! You'll be dead where you stand!"

"Hmph." You turned your face up and away at him as you crossed your arms. "I'll be stronger than any of those jerks! I...I'll be the greatest!"

And I'll show Mama too. Everyone will see! Everyone!

"You...you fool!" Raoul's face got closer to yours, you turning towards him as he looked stern. Sometimes the face that Mama does when you're in trouble. His hold around your shoulders tightened just like his eyes did. "You're just a child! You think something like that is easy?"

Your face twisted, biting your lip as you looked down, fists tightening. You felt the stick still around your hand close to snapping.

Your eyes snapped up however, fiery and glinting as you released a noise of denial. Hand around the stick up and then down, slammed and stabbed on the bar counter. Stuck.

Raoul hands loosened in shock, along with his jaw. Staring at how the stick jittered in place before moving his eyes back to yours, ready to tell you off for damaging his bar only to stop.

You stared, with fierce determined (e/c) orbs through eyelashes, at him. If possible, Raoul felt as if something in the air shifted. But something like that only happened when—.

A cup toasted. Laughter in between words. Fiery and hot with another's. The scent of steel and iron and smoke in the air as Raoul could only watch men speak of dreams larger than he. Larger than them.

Raoul's eyes widened, the widest he's done.

"I will," you say. And Raoul wonders at what he's seeing, of who you are, of talks and whispers of a mother and daughter living in the outskirts of the woods near Loguetown. And then, "'Cause everyone are stupid head's."

Raoul felt his amazement fall just as a sweatdrop did. You still looking serious after your words not helping.

Still a brat, Raoul reasons, scratching at the back of his beanie with exasperation with a sigh and closed eyes. Opening once more and spotting your stubborn gaze. But his. You're not normal.

A swivel came from his saloon doors up front, him and you turning eyes towards a frantic, breathy woman appearing tear faced. Only to see you and for her to make a noise of relief along with a cry of "(Y/N)!"

Your eyes widened as Mama's arms came around you.

Mama...Mama took a step back as she surveyed you up and down, warm and comforting grip on your shoulders. Mama was crying...did I do that?

"(Y/N)! P-please don't do that again!" Mama gave you another hug, tight and squeezing as you put your small arms around her too. Tiny fists around her blouse before you nuzzled into her blouse and breathed her scent of vanilla and home cooked meals in. Safe. "I...I'm sorry, (Y/N). You can have any dream you want." Your heart felt like it stopped just like your breath when Mama moved back, hand going to your own tear stained face, thumb wiping away the tracks as she gave you a smile. "You can do anything. And I'll—I'll support you." She will? "Just like Silver would."

Mama will support me, you think in amazement. Your face wanting to crumble as tears filled your eyes. But Mama picked you up and hid your face against her neck and shoulder, hand to your back as she held you. And you gripped back. Tight. You sniffled. I'll protect Mama. And beat everyone up that makes her cry.

You heard Mama say a rushed thanks and bowing to Raoul. Raoul only giving a wave of his hand and only a warning that you should learn to stay away from places like this. Mama promising that you'll be careful but you only thought of juicy kebabs. And arresting everyone here and fighting bigger people than just stupid kids.

If I can make that stupid man's nose break, I can do it again. And lots of other bones too. Wait, you paused as you wiped your nose, moving to hold it. Nose...nose have bones...? Your face scrunched heavily in thought as you held Mama, them walking back to home. You looked down at your dress too, wondering just how bones work as you look down at your collarbone. Mama sensed your movement and you looking at the dress. You felt her stiffen.

"Don't worry, (Y/N). I'll get you a new dress. I just...have to relearn how to sew that's all. It's been some time but I can make you some." Mama was smiling, but it looked worn as she gazed at you. "Would you like that?"

You frowned, thinking of why she looks like that in the first place, and let go of your dress. Hiding your face against the bridge of her neck and shoulder.

"I'm fine with what I'm wearing. I don't need anything."

We don't need anything from anybody, Mama. I like what we have already. I don't need anything. Just let me protect you and beat everyone up.

I can do it all.

But you didn't say all that. Because you're only four and don't know how to speak very well or say everything on your mind.

You only repeated to her neck, tightening your arms around her to show that you were telling the truth, that you love her very much and who needs more clothes or more of anything? They can fish for food like Mama does sometimes and stay with clothes they have forever.

"I don't need anything," you pouted.

Mama's brows pinched together, patting and rubbing your back as they walked through their home.

"I know. But I'll give it to you anyways."

Just like Silver would, but Mama kept silent. And didn't say that either. She doesn't know anymore how you'd react.

And with the clothes store incident, things changed.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

They don't get out much anymore to the plaza. Mama just goes out by herself to get food or ingredients, after you promise to her you'll stay out of trouble. Mama doesn't get clothes for herself either, instead sticking with supplies to make them herself.

When you asked why after she kept stabbing herself over and over again with the needle, bandages all along her fingers, she stopped humming Bink's Sake to look at you. She reached and cupped your cheek, smiling.

"If you don't need clothes from the store, I don't either." You stared and you felt something in your chest move at the words. Mama brushed her thumb by your eye, smile turning playful. "Who needs clothes anyways when I can make it?"

Mama can make everything herself, you think, eyes sparkling. She's so cool.

The awed expression soon left however when she smacked a wet kiss on your cheek and making you yelp and jump back, rubbing at your cheek as you gave her an annoyed look. Mama only laughing at your response, rubbing the assaulted cheek.

Ugh. Cool only sometimes.

When Mama is out trying to see clothes or plan meals or even out, you do try your best to be good. To stay out of trouble. To just train by yourself to be the strongest girl marine by carrying big rocks in a backpack or just digging holes with Mama's shovel she uses to garden for the flowers in front of their house. Sometimes, you race the birds up above. Just to see if you can beat them. They keep winning though.

You try your best.

But you think trouble sniffs you out, and finds you on your own.

"Look at this guys, it's a little girl playing to be marine!"

You turned, dress dirty and wet at the hems from being in the streaming river within the woods. You like finding rocks in it. How far you can throw them. To carry them. Sometimes the river pushes your legs hard and you fall, but you've been doing good today to stay standing.

Your eyes took in the group of kids today, being five. Three of them you're used to. For some reason, no matter how many times you beat them up for being mean, they kept coming back. Mama said once that babies can't be dropped because they may act odd when they grow up.

You think they're just stupid.

Even though they're older than you. Because you don't know why someone would keep coming back to get beat up by you.

Still, all you heard was the boy who said the words, smiling smugly and your eyes narrowed. Small (skin tone) fist clenching around a rock.

"I'm not playing! I'm going to be a marine!" The boy laughed, and the others did as well. You don't think there's anything funny. You tensed. "I'm going to arrest all of you when I grow up!"

Their laughter died down, the boy stepping up along with the other kids until he stood above you, leaning his face towards your own. Lips curved into a smirk as he saw your dirty dress before meeting your hard eyes.

"Arrest? Shouldn't you be the one getting arrested?" He leaned back, before pointing a finger right in your face. "You're the one that has a pirate for a dad after all."

The kids behind him seemed to make echoed statements as they nodded, their own smiles that made you want to punch them.

"Yeah," another said, "My mom said they're gonna call marines on you if you show up in the plaza again."

"Uh huh. And take you far, far away!" A girl snidely added, with crossed arms and superior eyes. "I bet it'll be to that big prison! You'll never leave there! You'll probably cry since it'll be dark and scary!"

They laughed, each one making you tremble harder and harder. The rock on your hand digging into your skin. But, you're trying for Mama. Mama said you have to ignore them sometimes and they'll get bored.

You pressed your lips before moving down to find more rocks in the bottom of the river. Ignoring how the laughter died and how they seemed to be staring at you.

They're just stupid, you think angrily, picking up rocks and holding them against your chest since your small arms can only hold so many. Stupid, stupid, stupid! Everyone is stupid. All stupid heads! No one can arrest me. Mama said so. But...why does everyone keep saying it? And all those other things...?

You paused as you grabbed onto another rock, hand wet and the rock glistening with water as you stared at it. As if it had answers.

Because of Papa?

You felt a touch to your shoulder, your body swinging from the force. Only for you to fall, body soaked from the river. You stared up who pushed you, only to see that stupid smile on that boy's face where you want to punch it off.

"Well, look at this. Not so tough now we told you you'll be arrested, right?" If possible that smile seemed to curve even more as the other kids laughed. Your hair dripped with water as you stared up at the boy. "What? Not gonna do anything?" He grabbed your face, pushing your cheeks together. You saw his other hand pick up one of the rocks you dropped and lifted it between the two of you. "Guess you're nothing but a beast to be tamed, huh? That's what my dad said. Oh wait. You don't have one, do you?"

His words were a question but how he said it made your youthful eyes narrow before you bowed your head.

Papa is...

You remember Mama's words, how she always compared the two of you. You having Papa's kindness. Having his face. How you have his drive too. How Papa is doing his best to help the two of you with the money he sends, even if he's far away. In islands finding adventure, islands you could only dream of. Mama loves Papa. She always says how great Papa is.

But Papa is...he isn't...

"Wait. Wait, hold on." The boy leaned closer to you, almost in disbelief before he let out an equal disbelieving laugh. "Are you crying?"

"Awwww, thought marines don't cry!"

"Yeah, and you said you're going to be the strongest?"

"Strong people don't cry, idiot!"

You stopped your sniffles(not really), and gazed upon and hard at the boy in front of you, teary faced. Face twisted into an ugly thing, you looked more like a wet angry cat than what you're picturing in your head.

It doesn't matter though. Because you'll be the strongest.

You head-butted the boy, stopping him mid laugh at the harsh hit and he fell back, splashing into the water as he went with a yelp. Your head throbbed in pain, you putting a hand to it as you winced. You never used your head before when fighting.

Your eyes roved up, to the other kids who stared with a mix of frustration and shock in their faces.

"You—you little—!"

You stood up from the water, drips of water from your dress and hair falling back into the river. You spreading your legs and hand curled in a fist in front of your chest.

"I'm going to fight— beat you up! Beat you all up! I—I'll show all of you! Doo doo heads! I bet your parents have to help you bathe because of how much you stink!"

The insult doesn't quite make sense, since Mama helps you bathe. But that isn't here nor there in a young childish mind like yours.

Their faces colored. Before they charged at you.

Scowls and snarls as they threw fists at you which you managed to dodge with your head, but still got your shoulder. Despite how much you fight, you still are a little clumsy. Yet, your small body is great sometimes. The kids tend to fall if they throw a punch too hard down at you only for you to move and their faces meet the dirt. Or this time—the river.

You were about to punch one of the others kids, when the boy you punched earlier now stood and yelled:

"If you're going to hurt us, we'll tell our parents to call marines and take you and your mom away!"

You faltered, brows pinching together.

You thought of Mama, how she reacted when you punched that man and called him names. How she bowed and said sorry to them, when they were the ones that started it first.

You don't want her to do that ever again.

You don't want her to say sorry for something you did.

You don't want her to look so sad and in pain again.

You don't want her taken away. You don't want her gone.

Because than...than...

Your lifted fist trembled, before you dropped it. The kids, seeing that, immediately took advantage. Throwing you to the river and kicking and throwing rocks and laughing, while you only curled yourself into a ball and did your best to stifle your cries. To stop from trembling, to stop the shaking, to stop thinking you can beat them all up easily as they call you demon and monster.

Why, you wonder, face pinched as they soon left you in the river, face drenched with water and scrapes and bruises along with the rest of your body. Do they keep calling me that?

You eventually managed to get up, you don't know whether it was a few minutes or an hour. But you do know you winced each time you moved. You lost a shoe too, you having to be careful where you step. You kept your head down as you waddled back home, hand to your stomach while the other would go to the trees near you for support. You sniffed, before feeling something go down your throat that tasted funny. You spat and saw blood mixed in with your saliva as it landed on the grass.

You would cringe but it hurt too. So you kept your face blank as you went.

You finally managed to arrive home, pushing the door and seeing Mama turn to you from the kitchen.

"There you are! I've told you to stay—(Y/N)?!" One moment she was at the counter, and then the next she was kneeling in front of you, hand brushing your cheek. You winced and Mama gasped at you, but you kept your head bowed. "(Y/N), what happened?! Why are you...did you fight the kids again? But how...you've never arrived this bad before..."

Mama grabbed your hand, and lifted you up to the kitchen counter. Grabbing a towel with water to help clean you, her eyes going up and down your form. Scratches and cuts along your knees and legs, your arms. Your dress ruined and hair disarray.

"(Y/N)...did they gang up on you?"

You kept silent, keeping your gaze down. Mama sighed, moving to clean your wounds, her softly saying to you an apology if you flinched. Her eyes trying to find yours, only to when she found them, her eyes widened in alarm.

Your eyes shouldn't be lifeless.

"(Y/N), please," Mama begged. "You...you're my daughter. I...I won't get upset. You're not in trouble. Please. Please, my star. Just tell me—"

"Why," you croaked through cracked lips, eyes downcast. "Why is Papa not here?"

Mama stilled, along with the wet towel that moved to your cheek.

It was silent for a few moments. You did not lift up your head, so you did not see how pained Mama looked.

Oh, (Y/N). She thought, face tight and knowing. Silver...how could I do this without you? Our star is fading. What can I say? Besides what I have already?

She doesn't think there's anything to say. Still, she moved to repeat what she's told you, only for you to speak up softly again and finally looking up to meet her eyes. The same color they are, but your (e/c) were a tad darker.

"Why do they call me a demon, Mama? They call me...so many names...the adults did too...it's—it's because of Papa, isn't it—"

"No." Mama stated strongly, eyes glinting as she put a hand to your head. "Don't—don't ever think that, (Y/N). People...they just don't understand. Silver—your Papa is different. People see and hear pirate and assume. They don't know him. And they don't know you." Your eyes held doubt, Mama tipping your chin to meet her serious countenance. "They don't. They will though. You have your dream, yes?"

Your eyes gained that shine, that flicker that she knows and loves. Mama smiled as you perked up.

My dream, your fists clenched at your sides as your face set and you nodded seriously. Mama believes in me. But...

Your face turned into questioning concern, Mama teasing an eye brow at the change.

"Will...Papa...will he like my dream?"

Mama's face flickered with something you couldn't understand, her brows up and furrowed before she hugged you. Her face hidden.

"Oh, (Y/N)." You're trying. You're trying to see and feel for your Papa. You want to. Despite everything, you want to. Mama placed a kiss on your temple as she squeezed. "He'll love whatever dream you'll have. No matter what you are."

Mama leaned back, spotting your relieved yet small smile before it fell. Only for Mama to cup your cheek, gently to not risk hurting you. You blinking up at her as she smiled lovingly.

"Smile, my star." Mama used her slender fingers to carefully push your lips to form a smile. "Come on. For me? You know, smiles are more for everyone than for you—but you must know you have such a shining smile. Come on, like me."

Mama went to push her own lips back to form a shining smile. You can see some of her gums and the inside of her cheek, making you laugh. Forgetting the pain and everything that happened. You could only laugh at how funny Mama is.

"That's better. Smile makes others happy you know. It's a nice feeling, eh?"

You nodded, face turning curious.

"Was papa's smile nice to look at?"

Mama did something interesting than. Something you've begun to notice more and more, just how many times she does it.

Mama smiled sadly, forlornly, eyes half lidded and she's looking at something you couldn't see before looking down at you with closed eyes.

"Mm! The nicest. When he comes back, you can see it too!"

That sounds...nice...

Mama looked at your hopeful expression and decided to plant multiple kisses on all your injuries. Not caring when you struggled and made disgusted noises.

"Mama!"

"My star is just too cute!"

"Strong people aren't cute!" You shouted, horrified.

Mama only giggled and tortured you more with kisses, adding playful yet gentle bites to your cheeks.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Time passed and things continued to be the same, you training no matter the weather despite how Mama says you shouldn't. Mama going on her own to buy whatever they needed, although she seems to be more willing to get their own stuff now. You heard her whisper something about how Papa gave them money so they shouldn't waste it by not getting stuff. But the people in Loguetown are lame!

She didn't say that part. But you think that's what she was getting at.

But now there's more fishing! And she teaches you too! Sometimes. You don't really like waiting and doing nothing when you can be training.

Which you still do. You try to stay away in areas where the kids won't come and bother you. It doesn't always work though. But you think training your eyes to see where their hits go before they land helps too!

Although it still hurts.

But! But it's okay! You found a way to get faster and learning how to dodge!

And, best of all, more kebabs!

You walked passed the swivel doors of Gold Roger, well. Walked under them. Not caring for the intimidating customers looking your way, only to have to jump up. Glass shards flying right where your feet were just a moment ago.

"You!" Raoul bellowed, looking tired and angry all at once from behind the bar counter, hand threateningly around a new shot glass. "Brat! Get out of here! You're making my customers leave!"

With each sentence, he threw another glass. You dodging each one and making a game of it by jumping or moving your body to the side or ducking your head.

You looked at him strangely.

"I think it's because you're throwing glasses, Rara. Are you stupid?"

Raoul's face would color when you said stuff like that. But he would make an interesting face each time you called him Rara too. Eyes behind small round sunglasses moved towards the customers only to sigh and tell you sit up here and hurry up.

You cheered, before rushing over with your little legs and scaling the bar stool until you looked at Raoul eagerly with a cry of "Kebabs!"

Raoul would curse to himself and complain loudly to you where you hear, but he's weird. He's different from the others who said mean things. He'll give you kebabs, make sure you don't stab yourself in the mouth. He started having your (favorite juice) at the ready when you kept coming back.

Raoul said stuff that was mean. But he wasn't mean.

Mama must know too. Since you look so happy when you come from the bar, telling her that "Rara is a good person!" She made an interesting face when you said that, blinking her eyes at you before saying something you couldn't hear. But then! She let you keep going to the bar with promises you won't bother him too much. And you bring kebabs home sometimes too! Well...one...you ate the others while walking back home even though Raoul said to save some for Mama. But you can't help it!

Raoul would give you a look and say mean stuff but still. He didn't change anything.

He's weird like that.

One of the first few times you came here after the first, you bumped into someone by accident when you rushed in. The man was tall, lumbering and muscular and had a nasty glare and scars in his face.

"Watch where you're going, brat." He grinned sharply. "Unless you wish to be skinned alive."

Your eyes narrowed at him as he laughed, others laughing with him. He didn't even say sorry.

But you can tell he's a pirate. The people behind him must be too. And he's mean. They're mean.

Raoul who was behind the counter and noticed the commotion, moved quickly to the front, hands up and making calming gestures.

"Now, there's no need to act like—"

"I'm going to arrest all of you," you said, face set.

The laughing stopped and everyone turned towards you. Raoul froze, staring at the pirates and back at you with a reprimanding expression.

One second you were on the ground, the next you were lifted up by the collar of your dress and breath smelling like ale was in your face.

"What," the scarred pirate said slowly, as in disbelief. Or maybe he talks slow. He should go to a doctor. "Did you say?"

Has to go to the doctor, you concluded with a frown.

"I'm going to arrest you when I grow up. I'm going to be the strongest girl marine." You repeated calmly. Brow raising when the pirate in front of you and behind him stared at you blankly. Stupid and slow. "You should go to the doctor."

Raoul slowly dragged a hand across his face.

The pirate holding you by the collar blinked once. Twice.

"What?"

"There's something wrong with your ears. Mama says to go to the doctor if something is wrong with you," you explained, just as slowly as he said his words. The pirate's jaw loosened. You nodded to yourself, crossing your arms in front of you and keeping your above ground legs still. "Ya. I can take you to the best doctor after I arrest you. Only the best cause I'll be the best and I'll know the best."

The pirate snarled, lifting his opposite fist up.

"You little bitch—"

Raoul grabbed the pirate's elbow, eyes hard.

"I think you and your lot should leave."

The pirate turned, growling a "What?! Are you kicking us out when," he shook you, back and forth but your eyes glinted once more. Your own face in a scowl and ready to punch or kick him but they can't reach. "This little shit is the one who bumped into me?! Do you know who I am?"

"No. Not really," Raoul drawled before his grip on the pirate's elbow tightened. "I don't care to know someone like you. You think punching a little girl is the shit?"

"Little girl?" The pirate laughed at Raoul's face along with yours. Your face twisting in disgust as spit landed on you. Raoul just stared at the pirate, appearing to be analyzing as his lips thinned. "All I see is a future problem for pirates. You heard her. Anyone wishing to be a dog should die like a dog. And the name of your bar, Gold Roger—" Raoul's eyes turned unreadable at the name, jaw setting as the pirate continued with a smug grin. "He beats and kills marines all the time. Even has that killer Bullet in his crew too. You think they won't take a chance to kill every single marine mutt?"

"You don't know, Roger." Raoul stated, angrily, insulted.

It made your eyes travel to him in confusion along with the pirates around them,

The pirate holding you chortled, before motioning his head and Raoul was now being held by the two other pirates. You thrashes and told them to let him go but he didn't pay attention to you as he kneeled before Raoul who's eyes were mere slits.

"And you do? Why are you looking at me like that? Don't worry. I'll make sure to show Roger when I meet him in the seas, just how many marines or marine whelps I got for him. Before I kill him of course."

Before the man finished speaking, Raoul gave him a headbutt. Making him curse as he jostled back but kept his grip on you. You gasped when Raoul met a punch from the pirates holding him and decided that you'll really arrest them now.

So you bit the hand holding the collar of your dress. Hard.

The pirate yowled. You landed harshly, spitting out blood and the taste of it, wiping your mouth. Raoul took advantage of your attack, pushing the two men holding him away like it was nothing and punching their lights out. One of them landing on the glass shards from one of the shot glasses Raoul always throws at you, howling at the pain as glass stuck to his skin.

"You bitch!" You turned, seeing the pirate that held you moving in for a punch. It looked a bit slow to you, even with the threat of the heavy large fist you weren't scared. Mostly because you bit him easily. You dodged to the side, meaty arm in front of you and decided the pirate needed another bite as you grabbed and chomped. The man shouted a string of curses and you moved before he could react and grab you, but not before punching the bite. Making him wince. You've learned that hitting new injuries make it hurt worse. "Y-You little shit—!"

The pirate reached with his other arm, swiping at you. His forearm connecting with your stomach, you yelped. Body going with the momentum and slamming into a table.

"I'm going to make sure you bleed now, you mangy mutt—"

Raoul punched the pirate, stopping from his words, the pirate fell. Out.

Your eyes shined.

Raoul stood over the pile of pirates, taking them by the collars and throwing them out his bar. You shakily stood, rubbing at your stomach before moving to help him. Dragging the body, although clumsily and still on the floor, to outside with him.

Raoul staring at you as you did so, but you only gave him a determined look. You don't want him stopping you. This is good training.

Raoul snorted, shaking his head before continuing. Letting you be and you grinned, letting the pirate's head fall harshly and ignoring how he groaned as you help Raoul with the others.

When they were done, Raoul turned to the remaining customers that were there who watched the whole thing with wide eyes.

Raoul pointed down towards you.

"Anyone willing to hurt kids can get out. And whoever thinks that Gold Roger is the type to do that sort of thing," Raoul's chin jutted out and his sunglasses shined. "You bastards can leave too."

The customers stared. Before turning their eyes back to their drinks and their conversations. Raoul nodded to himself, moving to fix his purple beanie before crossing his arms and glancing down towards you.

"Now you—" Raoul stopped at your sparkling eyes, his eyes squinting and having to put his sunglasses more in front of his orbs. "Why are you—"

"Cool!" You exclaimed, beaming and moving in place, bloody hands curled under your chin and equally bloody lips wide. "You're so cool, Rara! Teach me!"

Raoul's cheeks slightly flushed before he coughed, moving away from you as he gave a stern "No."

That night he gave you extra kebabs, so you think he liked you calling him cool. Which he is!

You wished he would teach you though. Or at least explain a few things...

One time you sniffed at a bottle of alcohol after asking Raoul to see, your face scrunching as you covered your nose.

"Ew! Why do people drink that?!"

Raoul only laughed at you, taking the bottle away with a knowing grin.

"You'll get it when you're older."

You pouted at the answer. It sounded like what Mama says.

Still though...you wonder about things.

Like how Mama would stare out at nothing sometimes. Looking at something you can't see. She looked...you don't know how exactly. But she looked sad. And tired.

It happened when she would bring up Papa, although when she spoke about him she's smiling or giggling about something he did. Or something they both did.

You asked her about it as they sat on their couch. Or more like said that she looked happy when she talked about Papa. Really happy.

She brightened, hands folded on her lap as she looked towards you.

"Your father's love is amazing to me. I can feel it in every kiss he gave me."

You made a face, thinking of the people who do that sometimes in the bar.

"Ew! Those don't look nice."

"Hehehe!" Mama put a hand to her mouth before sobering and giving you an amused smile. "Sometimes they aren't. You have to find the right one. One who loves you as if you yourself can move the stars, my star. Kisses have power—all filled with everything."

"That...sounds hard." You manage out, doubtful. It sounds stupid too.

"No." Mama grabbed your cheek and does a slight squeeze with a soft smile. "You'll find someone who loves you like that, (Y/N). But it's important to find the right one! Kisses are really strong and you shouldn't waste them. You have to be sure you love them too, not just whoever's heart you stole."

"I can't steal hearts! They're inside bodies!"

"Hehe! Right!"

You don't think it's funny. But you soon forget Mama's odd words when she sings softly Binks Sake again as she prepares the fish she caught again.

"Arashi ga kita zo, senri no sora ni(Now comes a storm through the far-off sky)." You clumsily follow along, singing much louder than Mama but with utmost confidence even if you butcher a few words and a smile as you got off your seat and danced. Mama smiling and giggling all the while as she continued. "Nami ga odoru yo, Doramu narase( Now the waves are dancing, Beat upon the drums)."

And then, at once and together, the both of you sang you and Mama's favorite part!

"Okubyoukaze ni fukarerya saigo( If you lose your nerve this breath could be your last)!

Asu no asahi ga nai ja nashi( But if you just hold on, The morning sun will rise)!"

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You wish all days you can sing Bink's Sake with Mama, maybe invite Raoul too. So Mama can get food besides always eating fish now. You don't ask anymore why they eat the same thing now. You didn't like how Mama's face looked. You don't like her in pain. Sometimes she sniffles too, but she's not crying. It made you confused but Mama would just smile at you and wave you off for you to play or head to Raoul's.

You wish Mama would stop looking sad when Papa sends them Beli's with the News Coo. Just staring at the pile with no change in her face.

You wish... you didn't have to deal with turds!

(Within Gold Roger, Raoul will regret yelling certain obscenities in his bar with you present.) 

You charged through the door to the house, making Mama startle at her place on the couch, sewing needles dropping at the sound. Only for her to gasp and stand at the injuries you received from the kids again. But you got a few licks this time.

You've come to learn that they excuse some of your flailing as just that. Crazy and everywhere.

Good thing they're stupid and don't think I just want to shut their traps, you think, using a word you heard Raoul say to you often. But I'm really pissed now!

"(Y/N)?! Did the kids—"

"The others say we don't have a home, Mama. That we live in dirt! But we have a roof over our heads!"

Mama paused, her arms that were outstretched to you falling. While you only stood with tight fists, angry and wishing to pummel them as you kept your gaze down to the floorboards.

You don't get what's wrong with your house. You have a kitchen, a couch, a bathroom, a dining table and the two rooms in the back. Although you don't use yours that much anymore. You like sleeping with Mama. Besides, Mama says that your room is where Papa's Beli will go for now.

Maybe...your house isn't as big as others...you can see some when you sneak to go to Raoul's bar. Large and towering over your small form, some having two floors! Two! But even the one floor ones look larger than their's...

Still...you don't understand what's wrong with it.

After a few more moments of silence, you looked up when you saw in the corner of your vision Mama's hand. She motioned for you to follow her, you doing so and sitting on the couch besides her. She stayed quiet. Still. Your brows were furrowing on what Mama can possibly be thinking so hard to make her face look so tight. But than it went away, her having a small smile as she turned to look at you.

"That's not the only thing that makes a home, my starling."

Your brows pinched in further at Mama's knowing, soft tone.

"I don't get it."

"Ano, well!" Mama put a finger to her lips, looking up in thought before turning her gaze back to you, moving her finger to point up above. "What we have is a place to live yes—a house. A roof. A door. Windows and walls. But that doesn't make a home." Mama motioned between you two. "It's us."

You stare blankly at Mama.

"I'm not a building."

Mama's patient smile wavered before she laughed, hand to her mouth as she did so.

"Hehehe! No, we're not! But tell me, how do you feel with just you and me? When we fish? When we cook? When we sleep and cuddle? How do you feel?"

You blinks, and touch your chest. Recalling how warm it made you, how comforting it was.

You always want to feel like that.

"It...feels nice."

"Do you think you can feel that in other buildings people call their homes?" Mama asked, arching a brow.

Your thoughtful expression fell, your mouth twisting to the side.

"Hah? No. I don't care about those people. They're mean."

Mama didn't react to your words, only humming as she smiled knowingly.

"So it's just with me?" You nod. "So you feel like I make a home? Because I feel the same way with you."

You blink. You looking up in thought, scratching the back of your neck.

When I feel warm it's cause of Mama. So...is Mama home? Your brows furrow at the thought. How is Mama a building?

"I...think I get it."

Mama laughs at your doubtful expression, all free and the happiest you've seen her in awhile. Maybe because of all the things she's been dropping by accident lately. Or maybe because...She kisses your cheek sloppily with an extra bite and you try to push her away with an indignant no. And yet, you were smiling despite your complaining.

"You don't get it at all but that's okay. You'll know when you feel a home. Maybe when your father comes, you'll feel it more."

She turns back to what she was doing before, sewing clothes for you. It looks like shorts.

You stare at her as she does it, the question in your mind not going away so you say it.

"Will he?" You whisper, almost to yourself only to freeze at how fast your Mama's eyes flicked towards you, pausing from her work.

Her eyes, the color lighter than yours, faltered only to glint.

It made you blink how hard it was but than it was gone as she turned back to her work.

"Yes. He will." Mama says resolutely, and than softer to herself as she sews and the needles move. "He will..."

You stared at Mama, turning away and biting your inner cheek. Mama looked sad again. Why did you mention Papa?

You think back to Mama and her expression, her belief in Papa. He'll come.

Maybe.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You're five!

Finally!

And you know how to write your name too!

And! And! You got to celebrate it in Raoul's bar! With Mama! He promised as many kebabs as you want, so you took his offer. Munching and tearing along, even as Raoul looked like he regret it and Mama scolded you each time you stabbed yourself with the stick.

You didn't care if your mouth kept bleeding, this is the best day ever! Your two favorite people in the whole world! You even told them.

Mama seemed to beam but Raoul gave you doubtful look. Pulling a stuffed cheek no matter if you kept saying "Ow!" repeatedly the harder he pulled.

"You just like me cause I give you food."

You beamed, meat/veggies stuck between teeth.

"The best food!"

Raoul scoffed but he looked happy nonetheless. The weirdo. You munched along, too busy enjoying your food to hear the other adults speak behind you as you sat in the bar counter.

"I appreciate what you've done, Raoul." Mama stated, grateful beyond measure as Raoul just shrugged and scratched behind his neck where his purple beanie was. She shook her head, smiling. "I mean it. (Y/N)...she needs someone like you. Despite how...rough around the edges you are."

Raoul stopped, his eyes turning unreadable as he stared at her.

"Miss...you know I can't replace him." Her eyes held hurt but Raoul kept going. "I'm not—"

"I know you aren't," She snapped lowly. Raoul blinked at the attitude change, something she has never done but she shook her head, palming her face with a heavy sigh. Raoul couldn't but notice the bags under eyes, tired and colored to show it. "Forgive me...I...it's been a bit difficult. With how those in Loguetown have been..."

She didn't have to say more. Raoul knows.

Stupid shits all of them, Raoul groused. Glancing towards you and your happy form as you ate kebab after kebab. He couldn't help but snort as you would tell each time you hurt yourself. Demon of Loguetown my ass.

"Ya don't gotta say much, Miss. No use bothering to think about bastards—I-I mean." Raoul faltered when Mama sent him an amused look at his stuttering, her saying she doesn't care about harsh words. She's used to it where she's from. Raoul coughed into his fist, embarrassed. "Right. Still. Sorry...been accidentally teaching your brat some words too."

Mama's light (e/c) eyes glittered.

"I can tell. But she's mostly picked up on your other habits too."

Raoul paused, scratching the back of his head. Wondering what she could speak of.

"What?"

She only laughed and pointed at his hand still behind his head. Raoul, connecting his gesture he does when thinking or confused, dropped his arm. Chuckling to himself.

Who knew he would have a brat for a copycat?

Comfortable silence weighed between them. Her watching her daughter while Raoul drunk his ale, not being able to take away his studying eyes away from her form.

Her eyes aren't just tired, Raoul observes with concern growing at each little change he notes. Her clothes appear bigger on her. She looks...gaunt...and pale...

Raoul lowered his cup, staring at it.

"Hey." She looked over, holding a question in her smile. Raoul kept his eyes on his drink. "You alright?"

She blinked, before she seemed to realize what he was getting at. Pursing her lips before she shook her head and smiled once more at him.

Fake, Raoul noted.

"Of course. Why wouldn't I be?"

Raoul had a hundred and ten reasons as to why she wouldn't, but he kept his mouth still. It isn't his place. The only reason the two of you are here is because you are a shitty determined brat that can't take no for an answer and keeps coming back no matter how many shot glasses he throws at you. He's a glorified babysitter and bar owner.

He shouldn't be doing any of this. A birthday party in a bar? For a kid?

His mind wanders to talks of adventure, grander than anything he could do. Of a promise to create the best metal, the best weapons—while he's here only happening to create a few new mixes of drinks.

As he stares at his ale, he could almost see them.

After a few more kebabs from you, your mom decided that enough was enough before he could. He packages a few spares for the two of you, handing it to your mother to hold instead of you. You'll finish them by the time they get back home is what he said at your whining and reaching hands. Your mom left through the back, despite how it's still early afternoon and they could've left through the front. Still. It helps with what he has to ask.

Before you moved to follow your mother, and most likely beg her for a kebab already, he kneeled before you and put a hand to your shoulder. You looked at him with a brow arched.

"Hey, has your mother...been feeling well lately?" You blinked, not seeming to understand so Raoul decided to help you a bit. "Has she been eating alright? Drinking water? Or...or coughing or sneezing or anything like that?"

When your eyes flickered with recollection, Raoul knew.

"Ya. How do you know?"

"She's sick. She should go to the doctor and get medicine." At your blank look, Raoul rose a brow. "You...you know what sick means, right?"

"Uhhh..."

Raoul face palmed, sunglasses slanting on his forehead before he fixed it. Ignoring how you looked at him like he was the weird one.

"Being sick means you're in pain. Your stomach could hurt or your chest or your head. Anything like that."

"Mama...is in pain...?" You looked disturbed at the knowledge, looking down and biting your lip in thought.

"Hey, stop that. You'll make yourself bleed." You stopped, moving to bite your inner cheek instead as you looked up at him with welling eyes. An improvement but he doesn't want you to cry. "Look. She just has to go to the doctor and she'll feel better. Like...like how she bandages you up or whatever she does when you throw your fighting tantrums." You made an "Oh!" in connection. "She can take medicine and everything will be good. But hey," Raoul brought you closer, eyes ever serious and tone low and dangerous as you stared. "I put in food for her too so you better not eat any of it. She looks horribly skinny and she needs to eat good to feel better. You want her better, right?"

"I...yeah...yeah! I want Mama to not be sick anymore!"

Raoul nodded, pleased and smirking at your sincerity. You're a shit but you're cute.

"Good. Tell me if she needs some help finding a doctor. I...might know a guy."

You stared at him and how slightly stumbled on his words.

"Is he a criminal?"

"Ah, shut yer trap! He helps people!"

Your mouth twisted, doubtful and crossing your arms.

"Fine. I'll arrest him last."

Raoul grabbed both your shoulders and shook you, shouting.

"YOU WONT ARREST HIM AT ALL!"

After that, you and Mama went home. You kept glancing at her though, Raoul's words making you worry.

Sick. I've never had that before...you stare at Mama and how coughed when she opened the fridge, feeling the cold air before putting the food in. Is that why Mama looked so much in pain for so long? It's not because of Papa?

Right when you thought the words, you heard a crash. Your eyes whipped to see Mama on the floor, the food as well. You rushed with a cry as she tried to get up and wave you away that she was fine, only for coughs to rack her body. Over and over again.

Harder than you've ever heard.

Sick, you think in growing concern and fear.

"Mama! A-Are you okay?!" You had a hand out, hesitant to reach out as Mama coughed into her hand. You landed it in her shoulder, rubbing it like how Mama does to you sometimes. "Mama?!"

She eventually stopped her coughing, clearing her throat and throwing you a smile that looked...wrong.

"I'm okay, (Y/N). It's nothing. I'm sure I'll feel better when the time is right."

Your brows furrowed. That doesn't make any sense. Why does Mama always never make sense?

"But...Mama...you sound...sick. Maybe we can...I don't know."

Mama managed to stand, using the fridge door to help her up. She sighed at the mess of the food on the floor, mumbling to herself perhaps they could still save it and picked it up back onto the plate as she replied.

"I'm fine, (Y/N). There's no need to get anything. I just have to wait."

You're brows are furrowing down so hard and close together you're sure they'll fly off.

"...wait?"

Mama put the plate back in, and closed the fridge. She smiled down at you, wide and...not wrong like earlier but...off.

Something doesn't feel right.

"Your father...he'll come. I'm sure. Than I'll feel better." Mama answered insouciantly.

Like nothing is wrong.

Something's wrong, you think again, sweat going down your temple.

"But...mama...I can find a doctor, the nice man at the bar can—"

"No, (Y/N)!" She snapped, eyes in a glare. It made you stumble back, eyes wide. She...she's never yelled at you like that before. Like...like... The people of Loguetown. At your frightened and round eyed look, Mama seemed to come back to herself, hand to her face in sorrow. "We...I'm sorry...we...have to save money. I have to wait here. He'll be here. I know it." She repeated the last sentence to herself once more, in a breath.

You could only stare as Mama continued to pretend like nothing was wrong.

How does she know when he'll come?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

After that, you were at a loss on what to do. Raoul couldn't do much either for someone who didn't want help.

You were supposed to get strong.

Be the strongest.

Be a marine.

To protect Mama. Arrest everyone that'll hurt them, make her cry. Look in pain. You hate the face she makes when she's in pain. You've seen it too many times.

She's supposed to be happy. Hugging you, and singing Binks Sake with you and you able to smell from her the scent of vanilla and home cooked meals, feeling warm and safe and comforting and she could feel all those things too. With you.

You're here.

You can fight everything and everyone.

That's what you've always done. What you can do.

How do I fight this?

(You can't fight what's inside.)

I never thought I needed to save. I just know how to fight.

(Something's broken.)

I only know how to fight.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

"Silver?"

"No, Mama. It's me."

"..."

"You have to eat, Mama. And water. Like what...what you tell me. You're...getting skinny. And you haven't moved. Or...showered."

"...you telling me I stink, (Y/N)? Huh? You want to make me leave the house and see your father by yourself!"

"What...?! N-No! Mama, please! I just...I just want you to feel better!"

"I...no, (Y/N). Maybe just give me some water. I have to stay. I just know he'll be here. He'll give me a smile and a kiss and than I'll be better."

"..."

"We'll be a family," she sighs dreamily. "And we can all sing..."

The lyrics to Binks Sake is broken and everywhere. Out of order. She hums it off beat.

You could only watch.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

What am I supposed to do?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

"Shio no mukou de, yuuhi mo sawagu ( Far across the salty depths! The merry evening sun!)

Sora nya wa o kaku, tori no uta (The birds sing as they draw circles in the sky!)

Sayonara minato, Tsumugi no sato yo (Farewell to the harbor, To my old hometown!)"

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You watch as Mama is in your old room, lovingly touching each Beli bill. Careful with the coins.

The fall of the clinks back to the table.

She whispers words to them. Ones you can't hear.

But you caught it. Once.

"You should've stayed," she says to a bill, as if it's him. Like it's a secret. She sighs, mournful. And just like that, she switched to broken sobs. "We could've been royalty."

You step away from the door, lean against the wall next to it with your hair hiding your shadowed face.

Your fists clench, nails cutting into your skin.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

It wasn't supposed to be like this.

Sometimes, you can practically feel how much Mama is wailing inside. It hurts inside. Your chest hurts.

What do I fight?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Don to icchou utao, funade no uta (Lets all sing out with a Don! As the ship sets sail)

Kinpa-ginpa mo shibuki ni kaete (Waves of gold and silver dissolve to salty spray)

Oretacha yuku zo, umi no kagiri (As we all set sail to the ends of the sea!)

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

When does the sea end so you can come back?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

"Mama, you have to eat! Please! Look, I brought this from Rara in the bar. It's chicken. It's really yummy!"

"Leave me, (Y/N)."

"But...but, it's your favorite! You like chicken. Look, here—"

You felt a slap to your cheek, you and the plate fall to the dirty ground as you hold your throbbing cheek wide eyed as Mama looked angrily down at you from her place in her bed(it used to be yours too. You stick with the couch now).

"I said no! And you wasted money on that! Your father could've used that!"

"But...you said that father leaves and sends that money for us."

"He might need it when he comes back! We can't touch it! Don't you understand, (Y/N)?! No...you wouldn't...I can feel that you can't."

"Eh?" You shake your head and go to pick up the food. She's always said weird things. "Mama please eat. We can't waste it. Just a little nibble—"

"LEAVE, (Y/N)! I just...he has to come back. Just a smile... and than I'll eat more."

Mama started singing again, out of tune and off beat to herself, head bobbing as she has been doing. You stare. Before your eyes lit up for the first time in the past few months.

You leave. And you plan.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

I'll help you, Mama. Cause, I'm here.

I'm here!

I'm here!

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Kyou ka asu ka to yoi no yume (Today, and tomorrow, our dreams through the night!)

Te o furu kage ni, mou aenai yo( Waving our goodbyes, we'll never meet again!)

Nani o kuyokuyo, asu mo tsukuyo (But don't look so down, For tomorrow night the moon will also rise!)

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

He said goodbye! But I won't!

Don't look sad, Mama. I'm here.

I'm here!

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Things are still the same as the days pass.

Mama only eating a little as well as drinking water rarely. More crumbs than food, and drinking a sip only every few days. No matter the cracked lips or hoarse throat.

You can see how Mama is acting more and more different. Like a different person.

Impatient. And mean.

She stares at you with narrowed eyes and sometimes hits you if you mention father. Not hard. Not like those kids that call you demon. Not like how the few stupid pirates that come in Raoul's bar either.

You can take it. You can take anything! And when you're the strongest woman marine, you'll be able to protect her anywhere!

But...you don't like this feeling inside you when she's mean. It's nasty and it's making you sad and sometimes angry, like when the other adults and kids ignore you or call you names.

(Demon. Monster. Offspring. Dirt. Pirate spawn—)

You don't remember the last time she called you her star. But! But you have a plan!

Raoul said your Mama isn't acting herself cause she needs food and water and a doctor and doesn't mean the stuff she says or does. Which you know! Mama would never hit you! 

She'd never!

You sniff, tightening the hold on your dress, lips quivering.

She'd never!

She's only sick. But you have a way to make her feel better.

Mama has always compared you and your father.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Warera kaizoku, umi watteku (We are pirates sailing through the Sea!)

Nami o makura ni, negura wa fune yo (The waves are our pillows, The ship our roost)

Ho ni hata ni ketateru wa dokuro (Flying the proud skull on our flags and our sails!)

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

It will make you proud.

We can be a home again.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You do the plan. You've been practicing balancing long sticks on your feet for days.

You borrow clothes from Raoul(you didn't steal, you're gonna be a marine! He's been giving clothes to you anyways when he noticed Mama has stopped washing clothes. You have comfortable shorts and a large shirt now. You wonder how he got it though, cause he doesn't have kids. You don't ask cause you don't want to arrest him. When Raoul asked what the clothes were for, you just it's to make Mama feel better. Raoul let you, concerned eyes growing but he can't do much else. He's already done a lot.) and you tie your feet together with the sticks and do the plan.

You put the large clothes on in the woods by your home. Too large for your body and the sleeves engulfing your tiny almost six year old arms. The sticks help with the lower half however and you have a belt. You hide your hair underneath a fedora hat, it tipping over your eyes and you having to put it back up every few seconds.

Still! This'll work!

You balance as best you can on the sticks as you walk in to your house that's more a shack now, the care gone and the flowers in the front dead.

Mama always said you looked like your father, so this will work.

You haphazardly and sloppily walked to where Mama was on her bed sleeping. You lean over her, only to almost fall and you having to catch yourself quickly, the sticks scraping against the floor.

Your Mama wakes up from the noise only for her to gasp, a shine in her eyes. Making her look healthier despite the darkness underneath them.

"Silver?"

Yes! It's working!

You smile wide, hopefully just like your father.

But the  the hat you put on your head tips over due to you leaning over so awkwardly.

You yelp and fall back as Mama's eyes widened out of shock, eyes glittering from hopeful joy dulling as her lips pursed while you rubbed your head with an eye closed in pain.

"What are you doing, (Y/N)?! I didn't think you were so cruel!"

You stop, eyes darting up to your Mama who was glaring at you as sat up in her bed.

"Wha—Mama, I wanted to make you feel better since you miss father's smile."

"DON'T lie to me!" Mama rages, pale scrawny once beautifully slender fists tight on her sheets. "You do not share my love for Silver. You blame him for everything this town says about both of us! And how they treat you! You...you hate your father."

You flinch. You crawl back as if she lashed at you.

"Mama I—"

"Shush! You—" Mama starts coughing strongly, hand covering her mouth as she rasped to gain her breath back as she laid upon the bed. Her eyes flicked down towards you, steely. "I shouldn't have agreed. To listen to Silver and...we would've both been happy if we stayed. But..." Her eyes focused solely on you and you froze on the ground. "You managed to break hearts faster than I thought, starting with mine. (Y/N). You're going to hurt everyone. And you'll feel it too."

...what?

I'm...you think, eyes trembling as you could only stare at Mama's confident cold expression. ...going to hurt everyone?

"...wha...Mama..."

Mama starts coughing erratically, hacking and hands going around her throat and laying down, too weak to sit upright at all and just coughing.

You widen your eyes and sit up.

"Mama?!"

Mama reached one hand out towards the ceiling, as if wishing to catch something as tears fell down her cheeks as she coughed weakly.

"Si...Silver...I'm...so...rry..."

"Mama!" You call, kneeling by the bed and eyes glistening with tears, terrified at what's happening despite Mama's weird words. Mama's eyes were looking faraway as she stared up, lips twisted down before going into a quiver as she turns to you, tears going down as she did so.

"My...star...I...I'm sorry...y...you deserve m...ore than t...his. I'm...a bad...mo...ther."

Mama! She's back!

Tears go down your face, as you grab a hand and tighten it.

"No! You're—you're the greatest mama ever! You're—y-you're just s-sick! Mama, I can get the owner! And—and than we can—we can—" your voice was wobbly and shaky as you stuttered and shook as big globs of water went down to the floor and flooded your vision where you could barely see your Mama who had a small pitiful smile on her face. "W-we can be wha-what you said! A home or whatever! Just us two! W-we can be it. I can be strong like a roof and the walls when I accomplish my dream! And you'll be inside a-and be the windows and door! And I can—I can love you only forever! We don't...we don't...don't need anything else! We won't ne—need anybody else! Just us!"

Mama still had that sad smile on her face, tears going down just like the stream of water in the river within the woods. Never ending.

You...you have to save Mama!

She's not supposed to look like that!

You're supposed to make sure she never looked like this again!

And so you kiss Mama's tears away and kiss her everywhere, even as Mama started looking at you brokenly and she made another choked sound that didn't sound like a cough.

You spoke between kisses, forcing a watery smile as you did so as you grabbed her hand with both of yours. Because smiles are for others!

"Kisses have power, right Mama? I love you the most so be okay! Be okay!"

Smile, Mama!

"...no..."

You look up when Mama squeezes your hand and Mama is looking at you where you feel like your heart will shatter and tears momentarily pausing on your eyes.

"You...have...a lot to d..o, m...y star," Mama rasps, forcing herself to speak when she should be resting. She needs to stop talking! "You will lo...ve others...and others will love y-you...you won't be alone...ever again. Just...Just w-wait. Be patient...it'll be...w-wor...th it. Just...wait. The morni...ng sun...will rise...again..."

Bink's Sake again...our favorite part.

But...you don't understand...

"B-but...eh?"

You noticed Mama's hands slacking and barely heard whispered words that slipped through Mama's lips more like a breeze than a true sentence.

"Ai shiteru."

You blink, eyes wide and mouth dropped before stilling when Mama didn't move again.

"Mama? Can you feel this?" You kiss Mama on her temple to her cheek to her chin. "Mama? Hey, wake up! Mama! Look at my kisses!"

You kiss her to the nose, to the eyebrow to under the eyes where you tasted salt to the sweaty forehead. If you focus, you can still smell vanilla mixed with the salt.

"I don't think it's annoying, look—it's not ew at all! They have power right? Right...?! Look!" You kiss Mama's ear, her hair, her jaw. But there was nothing. "Mama...kisses have power don't they?! Ah! The spot! You'll wake up than!" You grin, the pull feeling forced on your wet cheeks but you did it and pecked Mama's lips and than pulled back to see the reaction.

Nothing.

"Mama?"

A peck, stronger this time.

"Mama?!"

Another peck, your lips feeling weird because it started feeling cold.

Your breath was stuttering and your chest was heaving, but you have to try.

I can fight everything! I can do it all!

I'm here.

"Wake up! Mama! I LOVE YOU, MAMA! THIS IS SUPPOSED TO SHOW IT THE STRONGEST! WAKE UP!"

You can't go.

You shook her shoulders, desperate and biting your lips to stop from making a sob yet one always seemed to escape. You pecked the edge of her lips as you shook, tears falling on Mama's face as well as snot no matter how much you sniffled. Trying your best to not mess up Mama's face, so she won't wake up feeling bad.

You pushed your fingers to the edge of her lips, pulling them up so she can smile like what she would do to you when you didn't.

This will work. Smiles are supposed to stay. Smiles are for others, so smile please Mama!

Mama didn't move. She didn't call you her star no matter how you shook her.

And you were alone.

The Demon of Loguetown.

Lyrics echoed in your mind, as you stared stupefied down at Mama who's not moving and getting cold.

DON to icchou utao, unaba no uta ( Let's all sing it with a Don! A song of the waves)

Douse dare demo itsuka wa hone yo (Doesn't matter who you are, Someday you'll just be bones)

Hatenashi, atenashi, waraibanashi    (Never-Ending, Ever-wandering, Our funny Traveling tale!)

Something broke and you cried out, voice breaking.

"MAMAAAAAAAA!!!!"

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Okubyoukaze Ni Fukakerya Saigo(If you lose your nerve, this may be your last breath.)

Asu No Asahi Ga Hai No Hashi(But if you hold on, the morning sun will rise!)

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Raoul came hours later, wondering what happened.

Only for the door to be half open, him knocking with no answer. And a call of you and Mama. Nothing.

He steps in, and for the first time enters the house as well as see how you were living the past few months.

His gaze roved, looking tight as he took in the house in disarray. Old food gathering flies on the counters, sewing needles scattered along with half made clothes, with many colored threads tangled every which way and empty bobbins.

This is worse than I thought. Raoul turns his eyes away, looking past the dishes and being careful of his steps as he roved his eyes over to the back of the house. They must be in there.

He walks, and opens the door, his eyes widening in shock as he paled.

"(Y/N)...?"

You were atop your mother, who looks stiff and plenty pale and getting a smell, cuddling against her neck and shoulder. You looked over with the call of your name.

Raoul stilled.

Your eyes looked dead.

You turned back and nuzzled against your mother.

What happened?

Raoul wondered as he tried to get you off, but you gave some struggle, saying you don't wish to be alone. You'll fight everyone! You only turned into putty when all that energy left you, him holding onto your hand tight as he yelled that your mother was gone. You stepped out the room as Raoul looked at your mother, palming his face, shoulders tense and shaking as he wondered what to do.

How long were you there? With your mother's body? Trying to give warmth where there wasn't any to be received?

You didn't want to leave as he dug a hole behind your cottage, overlooking the sea and how the sky meets it.

"She shouldn't be alone," you said hoarsely, with a sniff and to the ground where he couldn't spot your expression.

Raoul let you, and let you help too since you were adamant about it. That you could do it all. Just like Mama.

He didn't say anything.

What's there to say when a child has to bury a parent?

And they buried your mother, a wooden cross over the mound.

You could only stare down at it.

Raoul didn't know what to say. How could things have gotten this bad? Did the townspeople get to your mother too somehow?

How could this happen?

Raoul isn't a man of words, but he does actions. He puts a hand on your tiny shoulder, you tensing before you relaxes as you continued to stare down at your mother's grave. He spotted your tights fists.

"I'll have to," you whisper to yourself, Raoul having to strain his ears to hear as he turned his heavy gaze towards you. "I...I have to do my dream. I'll fight. And protect. Like...like a marine. I-I'll d-do it..."

Raoul's throat tightens when you gaze up at him, tears going down your face as you forced a smile.

"Mama...she'll see me...right?"

Raoul swallows. He kneels and brings you to him, your tiny hands fisting in his shirt as Raoul stares ahead.

"Yeah," he says, a little lost, a little broken at the sight. He clears his throat and pulls away to make eye contact with you. He plants a smirk onto his face. "Just be the loud little shit you always are."

You stare at him, before a true albeit small smile twitches on your lips.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

The sea mourns.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You do as you've always done.

You fight. You train.

Raoul suggests making your punches harder by doing it against the tree. (His eyes hold doubt. Does he doubt what you could do?)

Raoul gives you kebabs still. But only at the bar. Raoul can't do much outside that, when you come into Loguetown.

You still practice dodging his shot glasses after some time has passed.

You try to fish. You do your best. You prefer your hands over the rod.

You don't know how to properly prepare a fish. You know you don't eat the head because Mama always cut it off when she cooked(used to cook).

You burn your hands or the fish. Sometimes you choke and spit out the scales.

You don't ask Raoul. You can do stuff as easy as this!

You're going to be the strongest girl in the marines!

Everything else is easy. You're going to be best—are the best!

You can do it all!

You sleep in your old room again(you don't walk into Mama's), not caring about the Beli you have in it.

(When does the sea end?)

You don't care about anything anyone says(you care a lot. They're calling you a kin killer. Raoul states with jaw tight that they're stupid so they are!) You fight the kids when you want to(sometimes you don't, you only see Mama's sad face and you just want to take the hits) and you even fight adults too.

Because the strongest doesn't let anyone talk shit!

(Did I do this?)

You ignore their threats of the marines, of truly doing it now. That you've gone too far. They've let you do too much and now look what you've done—

(Am I going to be arrested just for being born?)

You ignore it all. You rage and fight and spit, clothes a mess and ready to show everyone who you are. Who you're going to be.

You'll tell everyone!

Everyone!

(I'm alone.)

You'll have the coolest moves, you already have some, and everyone will shut their traps!

You'll be the best!

(I'm the best!)

No one will care about what your parents will be if you're the best! The strongest girl in the marines.

You'll show them!

You can do it!

You don't care what they say!

(I just want someone to believe.)

You don't need friends!

(I want one.)

You don't!

(Will the sun really come back?)

You don't at all!

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Please.

I just don't want to be alone.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Fate, shifts.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Then one day after months have passed and you're six, after being beat once more and training—you meet a boy.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

The peace when one stares at the moon in silence.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You have adventures and meet others.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Then an Old Man with harsh words and fists yet with kind eyes comes.

The Hero.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Belief. Trust.

Safe.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Then, while everyone was scattered and pushing with the Pirate King's execution, you met the one who'll guide you and never leave at the front of your house.

A towering buster sword, dark as night. Yet if you squint and moved your eyes, had the sheen of silver.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

When you finally managed to lift it, tiny arms straining, teeth gritting, breath heaving and veins popping, you heard a whisper.

You felt pride not your own tickle you.

Kuroi ten'nosabaki, it said but you felt it more than heard it. Worthy. Swing and I shall follow your judgement.

You grinned, wide and sharp.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Do you see me, Mama?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

At eight, you leave Loguetown on a naval ship and don't look back as the sea breeze played with your hair, buster sword that was more a hunk of metal than a sword dwarfing your back.

To Marineford.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Do you see me?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Loguetown Present Time—Gold Roger Bar

The silence between the two of you was long, never ending. Too lost in thoughts of the past. Only two people know what you went through with your mother. Raoul being one. And Garp being the other. You didn't want Smoker to know.  Or anyone else. Besides that your mother got sick and died. Which was the truth.

She got sick. And then she died.

What happened in between is best left alone.

You kept your quiet gaze in the indentation you made long ago, exuberant and loud and blunt with your need of kebabs. Driving Raoul crazy and your words of promise where you wouldn't arrest him.

A flicker of a smile appeared on your lips, a (skin tone) finger rubbing upon the indent.

"Say," you flick your eyes up towards Raoul, his eyes on you behind small sunglasses. It's insane how it somehow fits him now, he's gotten so small. "...what happened?"

You stare at him for a beat and look away, adjusting in your seat as you tapped the table idly, leaning your head against a hand to your left scarred cheek.

Did I change that much? You wonder, frowning to yourself behind your cap. What does he see when he meets my eyes? But...it's been sixteen years...surely I had to change...?

You push your thoughts away, instead looking over at him. Because Raoul deserves to meet your eyes. You shouldn't hide from him. He helped you too much back then.

You put a foot against the counter, your bar stool leaning back with the action as you put an arm over your knee.

"I just found something better," you say, lips curving and energy rising with each next word. "I'll be the strongest woman in the world! I'll beat Big Mom's fatass until her fat folds into herself and she's nothing more than a pink blob. And I'll fight anyone who gets in my way!"

Raoul studies you, memory flickering as you meet his gaze, eyes glinting not only in determination but hidden meaning.

"I'll have to," you whisper to yourself, Raoul having to strain his ears to hear as he turned his heavy gaze towards you. "I...I have to do my dream. I'll fight. And protect."

You found something better indeed, Raoul thinks, elderly lips lifting into an amused smirk. You can do both freely now.

Your lips grew into a grin at his smirk, before it softened and you reached a hand out to lay a hand over his. Raoul's eyes flicked towards yours in confusion.

"Thank you, Raoul. For...everything you did back than."

If anyone saw Raoul's eyes water, and tears fall for such simple words, he'll deny it till his death damn it!

"I...I didn't do much. I couldn't be...what you wanted me to be... but maybe you can find..."

Your eyes were half lidded, smile waning yet still there as you squeezed a hand and shook your head.

I don't want to talk about him yet.

"I know. But...someone else did." You admit, the words falling out on their own, before taking your hand back. Sitting correctly on the stool and stepping away, back turned towards Raoul as he fixed himself by rubbing his face. "I better go. I have a lot to do."

Raoul's eyes darted up, pausing from using his purple beanie. He can sense a great adventure in the air. Like...

"You—you little shit! You better run!!" He threw shot glasses at you, you catching each one as you walked away and setting it on the table, still with your back turned. "I didn't miss you or your shitty pouts! Or wondered if you were alive! Go than! And run! And you better hope I don't catch you! I better see your bounty too, got it?!"

What a weirdo, you think fondly as you finally step out the bar, arms stretching with head slightly turned back at the Gold Roger sign. Just say don't get caught by the marines instead of all that. Say what you mean.

Good thing you aren't like that.

(You are obtuse to your own self, the narrator complains. And impressionable.)

But before you go...

You walk through the alleys, cloak hood back up as you walked. Walked through the woods on the outskirts of Loguetown, pausing or stopping at times when you recognize a beat up tree or fallen trees, a large skull once belonging to a giant grizzly bear being ate up by grass and foliage, a small grave belonging to the once loyal dog—Rocky, and even one stray bat with nails.

You move forward and stop when you finally make it. Your once cottage and home has definitely seen better days. Although to be fair, you barely recall when it was at its prime. It was so long ago...

The wood of the door had cracks and holes, either from termites or age you cannot recall. The flowers king gone, replaced by grass that seems to take over the house and cover it. As if to hide it from existence.

You step through, floor boards immediately creaking and you cringe at how can see parts of the foundation of the house with the amount of holes everywhere.

Your eyes rove, taking in the dirty couch where you used to sleep and before that, where you and Mama would play tickle monster. You running and laughing as Mama giggled and ran after you. You always landing on the couch even though you knew she would tickle you till tears went down your face.

You flick your eyes to the back of the house, where the two rooms were.

Kuroi ten'nosabaki metal was cool against your back, a comfort. Karasu on your hip, undaunted.

You sigh and take a breath, squaring your shoulders and moving.

I can do this. They're just rooms now.

You go into your old room first, coughing as you opened the door and dust came up. Your eyes watering before clearing as you spotted that there was still somehow a few beli's around. You only used what you needed, and it was barely anything. You stuck with what you had and got. And Old Man Garp helped you out anyways.

People must've broken in once and took a few.

Your eyes moved downward to some beli coins, eyes unreadable. Your attention being stolen away from your dusty smelly bed, your nose being suffocated from the smell of humidity and dust and staleness in the air.

You turned away, closing the door, hand holding the knob. You stood there, a moment. Another. You let go and moved to the next one.

I will stick with what I get on my own.

You were more hesitant with this door, hand hovering over the knob. Rusted and dirty as it was, you can see the reflection of your form on it, along with the hand that does not wish to touch it.

It's just a room.

You took a harsh breath, and opened it, walking in without thinking to just get it over with. You stilled.

Eyes going towards the bed(she died there) and...it was just like your room. You sniffed, only to be met with the same air.

There's no vanilla anymore. You note.

You don't know why you thought there would be. It's been years. Of course you wouldn't smell it. Smell her.

And yet...

"We're a proud country, and so we now must celebrate it! We dance around the fire and have our drums while we throw our spices into the fire. It's so our ancestors can smell it too, when the smoke crackles and the fire collects and goes up to the sky..." Mayor smiled, eyes proud and distant and crinkling around the edges. It made him look younger, you think. "They can still feel like they're home. They just have to smell it."

Why you were pulled here in the first place.

It's been so long since you felt home.

"That's not the only thing that makes a home, my starling."

Your brows pinched in further at Mama's knowing, soft tone.

"I don't get it."

"Ano, well!" Mama put a finger to her lips, looking up in thought before turning her gaze back to you, moving her finger to point up above. "What we have is a place to live yes—a house. A roof. A door. Windows and walls. But that doesn't make a home." Mama motioned between you two. "It's us."

But it's gone now, you observe, a bitter look on your face as you looked around. She's gone. There is no home.

"You...have...a lot to d..o, m...y star," Mama rasps, forcing herself to speak. "You will lo...ve others...and others will love y-you...you won't be alone...ever again. Just...Just w-wait. Be patient...it'll be...w-wor...th it. Just...wait. The morni...ng sun...will rise...again..."

You stumble back, knocking against a dresser as you put a hand to your head in pain.

Why are you remembering this?!

Why?

"Tell me, how do you feel with just you and me? When we fish? When we cook? When we sleep and cuddle? How do you feel?"

Your pained expression stilled, eyes staring down through your fingers.

You think of all the people you've met so far. Everything you've gone through with them. Every single one. Of yells and chases and hits to the head, of playful arguments with "Idiot!", of naps in odd places, of learning weird words, of stealing rice crackers on a ship with another, of the most recent singing of Bink's Sake, cups clinking and laughing and a smile like the sun on you.

Even...

You thought of campfires. The peace in between missions. With everyone.

You shut that part away, shaking your head at that.

That last part can't be right.

But... you let go of your hold on your head, staring at your palm. ...people make home's...that's what you were saying. Right, Mama?

A bitter and tight feeling rose on your chest at that. Already messed up.

But maybe... you clench the hand in front of you, tight as your eyes turn steely. I can keep finding one. I just have to wait...I think I can do that.

You turn away from the room, and leave outside the house to go to the back. You touch the cross upon the mound, noting that fresh flowers were there upon it. Must be from Raoul.

I'll do it. Do you see me? I can do it.

You stay there for a few more moments before you go and go back on your boat.

But not before passing a building and seeing a wanted poster there.

You grab it, pocketing it and only take it once more when you're far from the shores of Loguetown. You grin, and laugh.

"They used my marine license picture?!"

You snorted, laughing as you held your first Wanted Poster, moving with the sea breeze and having the price of 195,000, 000 Beli on your head. You had your marine uniform on, grinning sharp in the camera but looking a tad irate due to how Garp forced you to take it again since the other one you didn't know yet how to smile for pictures.

At least one part of it is still right.

You touch your MARINE cap, smiling before turning back.

"Now to find Shanks!" You say loudly.

"...wherever he is." You add, not so loudly and head bowing depressingly.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Do you see me, Mama?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

On the Wanted Poster, it read:

"WANTED

DEAD OR ALIVE

Ex-Marine Silver Blood (Y/N)!

195,000, 000 Beli"

And under it, in small captions for the crimes:

"Traitor to the World Government and Marine Forces."

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Unbeknownst to you, you missed another reunion back in Loguetown.

"Fuckin' shit heads," a sharp voice complained, picking their nose and flicking and soon using their pinky to dig into their ear nonchalantly. A newly golden hoop swinging as they walked, other hand holding a bouquet of flowers. Only to stop once he spots an old cottage opened. "Ah, shit! Fuck, dabe! They better haven't...!" They rush to the grave overseeing the horizon only to let out a sigh. "Guess it's whatever, dabe. Shouldn't even be doing this for that worthless bitch each time I come back in this shithole away from my gang. She's lucky no one knows about this or I won't be the true Demon of Loguetown, dabe!"

Perhaps best you didn't meet.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Karé Island—Near Rebuilding Huts and Houses

"...you came here," Zuko said slowly, tone practically flat as dark ruby bore into deep sapphire. "Because of a water spout separated you from your ship. And you managed to live and land on the outskirts of our island, where the current is harsh and unforgiving. The reason being..."

The man in front of him, whose clothes have finally dried but his tie is hanging around his neck than tied around his white pin striped button shirt with the sleeves rolled up, paused his eating of the curry. Swallowing and placing it down between them on the table within Zuko's home. His family has left him to talk with this stranger. Although he didn't feel any bad intentions.

His ancestors have some opinions, however.

"Oi, Oi, Oi!" Raiona called within his mind, Zuko keeping his face blank but he wanted to glare at his louder ancestor. "He has some residual energy of someone we just met!"

"Rai is right," Kokiri added, pleasantly surprised and thankfully always the calmer of the two yet still had that hint of authority behind each word. "The young woman's spiritual energy is on him. Although it's only a hint. Practically undetectable."

"If you didn't have us that is," Raiona smugly added.

Zuko tuned them out, wishing to hear the man himself called Jet.

"I have a debt that has to be repaid. She's an odd one but," Jet shrugged, as if saying what could be done about it with a smile to go along with it. Zuko's eyes honed in when Jet reaches into pants, taking out a wanted poster and noting it was of you. Although you were younger and in professional marine uniform with no scar, Zuko won't ever forget your face. "I'm on the lookout for her. Turns out she's a pirate and a turncoat but...the papers aren't saying everything. She helped me and my town when she didn't have to." His eyes seemed to stare past him, lost in memory or thought before steady blue settles onto his. "Everyone deserves to have someone at their back. She needs people to help her out."

"You seem determined about this," Zuko noted, ignoring his own feelings and thoughts of what's occurring here. Pausing and analyzing the ravenette before him, blue eyes not faltering even with meeting Zuko's own cool red ones.

"Nothing is holding you here, tama." Zuko's brows rose a tad, red eyes whipping towards his father who kept moving right along with a relaxed gait. Mokoko being distracted by stray grasshoppers and catching them with her tongue, making chirps as she did so. "We're alright. You and (Y/N) made sure of that, with the help of our ancestors as well. We need someone out there—to show the world what we are worth. What it means to be from Karé."

"Your excuse," Raiona laughs.

"Destiny," Kokiri believes.

Jet's eyes softened for a moment, making Zuko's brows slightly arch at the look as the man before him seemed lost in thought.

"Why wouldn't I be? She's crazy!" He laughs, hand ruffling his cropped black hair before dropping. "But...she was there and stopped everything when no one else did. I heard from others while I was here that she had a hand in helping you guys too. She's...the only one I'll accept as my Captain...!"

Jet finalized, blue eyes glinting in a way similar to the harsh tide around the island.

Zuko thought of your own actions here, how similar. How you saved. Even if you were a new criminal, you wished to help.

You even opened his own eyes. The key to finally accepting help from his ancestors. That he didn't need to rely on only himself and his own hands. Not if he still has the power to reach one out and ask for help.

"What? You called too, didn't ya?" Zuko's eyes rounded, his jaw loosening and you let out a chuckle. As if amused by him, a personal joke he could not understand. "I help those who want it. Who ask. Can't do everything myself, can I? You gotta help yourself too by reaching out ya know!" You nodded back towards Azu and Aiko as well as Mayor. And Zuko automatically followed your gaze as you went on, your shoulders back and spine straight. "Go help your family. I'll handle everything else. This...is the exact kind of fight I need!"

Something settled within Zuko, his shoulders relaxing as if something released.

He knows what to do.

However, Zuko glanced back up at Jet, who's blue eyes were sparkling when he proclaimed you as his captain. He could practically see a dog tail behind him even though the man's other features stayed collected, as if he was trying to hide it. You hold...odd company.

"...are you a fanboy?" Zuko asked, concerned and doubt within his expression. He doesn't want to be around odd people.

Jet blinked. Only to turn affronted, teeth snapping and head growing big as he yelled, the force of it making Zuko's dark red hair move back as his eyes narrowed.

"WHAT DID YOU CALL ME?!" Jet jabbed his thumb to his chest, pointing the other to the two swords on his hip. "Listen here, village boy, I'm not scared to fight you! I might be rusty but don't think that'll stop me. I'll do what I must to repay (Y/N). And I'm not gonna let someone like you stop me."

"He has fire doesn't he?" Raiona commented with a smirk.

"Bullheaded if not careful," Kokiri observed, but holding amusement and sharing the same sentiment as his brother.

Zuko's lips quirked up despite the shouts, Jet biting it as he paused, black brows furrowing.

Determined.

Zuko understands.

He's the same in the end.

Zuko stood up from his chair, Jet only watching in confusion as the cherry head moved to grab and packed a bag. It was when Zuko was tightening his bandages, Jet has decided to ask.

"What are you doing?"

Zuko tightened the bandage on his forehead, red silky bangs framing it before he turned his dark scarlet eyes to meet his.

"Come. We must find a boat."

Jet's eyes widened before a smirk formed, standing up to meet the cook at the door only for it to fall when Zuko added something unhelpful over his shoulder.

"I don't like you."

Jet scowled.

"Are you supposed to say that when we're about to sail?!"

Jet didn't pay much mind to it, however. No matter how the red head may try to hide it, his lips were up as they went to try to find a boat sturdy and large enough to go past the tides and for the two of them.

Jet's mind surfaces once more to the memory when he asked you if he could join, your eyes seeming to freeze. Almost scared.

Scared that you wanted to say yes.

I'll show you, Captain. Jet promises. I promise you don't have to be alone.

.

.

.

**Kuroi ten'nosabaki🗡🎇 💀(Black Heaven's Judgement): your black sword with a sheen of silver. Buster sword that's carried on your back, six feet with just the metal alone, but the one foot long handle makes it an impressive seven foot long sword! Silver Blood adjusts it when necessary when she sits back on a couch for it to lay behind her. Standing, Silver Blood always keeps the Buster sword crooked on her back in order for to move properly, so she must always take into account of where her sword is when walking. But she's trained with it and been with it so long, it has become a part of her body so she always knows how to move her body with it.

What? Don't look at me like that.

Not my fault you guys never thought just what SB's mom got sick from.

But oh look, SB has Daddy Issues and Mommy Issues! What a nice horrible mix. So much trauma. At least she can relate to a few of the men that way, right? Right? 💀

Okay but seriously, writing this made me cry. You guys have a better understanding about SB and how she came to be and why she is the way she is.

•She won't refuse affection. Ever. That's why the men can get away with it so much. Cause she can't risk it. She won't do what she did to her mother. She can't. She won't ever again. She receives the kisses or the sudden attacks and then she may retaliate. (I'm sure you guys can connect how this can be quite dangerous for her.)

••To go along with that, SB has put great importance to her first kiss. Because of how her mother put so much importance to it. SB wants to make sure it's right. Because kisses have power after all. Just like smiles do.

•The incident at the clothes store really messed SB up. She's fine with what she has, especially and specifically in clothing. She's satisfied with simplicity and barely anything because she believed that would be easier for her mother. It is still easier. She doesn't care much for a lot of money either, not impressed by it. Similar reasons to Sanji as to why.

••Along with that, SB doesn't like disappointing her mother. She didn't like her mother's look at the store nor does she like how her mother apologized to people who didn't deserve it. She didn't want to trouble her mother or make her do that stuff again, so SB is willing to take a few hits. It has helped her anyways to see how easy she can see through moves.

•••Adding to that^, SB is willing to take any hit if it protects others one way or another. Or even helps them. SB took hits so her mom won't look like that again, just as SB was willing to take hits from the islanders she was supposed to kill. SB sees someone hitting/hurting her or sacrificing herself = helping. Shanks recognized this part of SB immediately and that's why he was worried she was doing something similar again when he read that SB was taken into Impel Down. Not necessarily suicidal, but dangerously close and concerning.

•SB has always been around men who are rough around the edges or rather don't say what they mean. Or their actions are different from their words. Raoul and Smoker as examples. Garp is more blunt but still has a unique way showing affection so it didn't help. SB can excuse a lot due to that. And she may think some people are like her mother, only hurt and not themselves and just need some help.

There's other things revealed here, but I'll let you guys figure it out. I'm not gonna explain EVERYTHING. That takes the fun out of it.

Point out if there's any mistakes! I didn't read through this all the way to double check and just crossed my fingers. Hope you enjoyed!

Example of what SB's old house looks like now.

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VOTES~

Main Pairings
Shanks: 191
Mihawk: 173
Crocodile:70
Doflamingo: 68
Smoker: 82
Lucci: 66

Side Pairings
Kaku: 17
Paulie: 8
Buggy: 14

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

FANART CORNER

@Lizzy from Discord

(Silver and SB's mom)

@Joe_h3e Wattpad/Discord

@Lucci from Discord

@Teabag from Discord

I can't find the username for these so I'm sorry! Comment if you're the one who did it please!

By: @.stray._ on Discord

By: @YanoTime on Discord

By: @DoskoiPanda on Discord

By: @•lin• on Discord