Queen of the Pirates

Honoring the Lost

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Two full days have passed since the celebration of Moria's defeat and Brook joining the crew. For the most part, we took the time to rest and recharge after what we went through, but it wasn't long before some of us got antsy.

In order to put Brook's former crew to rest, Usopp, Franky, and myself designed and build a monument to the Rumbar Pirates to be buried beneath. It felt good to use my blacksmithing skills since I haven't been able to since we left Alabasta all those weeks ago. I also helped Chopper find the perfect flowers to plant around the monument. Once that task was done, Franky also repaired Brook's old ship for Lola and her crew to use.

Luffy and I also spent a lot of time together over these last two days. Other than falling asleep together in our room, we also took a walk around the now spookless Thriller Bark. It reminded me of our times back home as kids when we'd go on adventures in the forest. Thankfully, this time we didn't run into any animals that wanted to eat us. It isn't every day that we can do normal couple activities, and it doesn't bother me that we can't because that makes those moments all the more special.

There was also time to spend with Nami and Robin relaxing on the Thousand Sunny being pampered with treats from Sanji as we read whatever interested us. I feel beyond blessed to know that I have the two older sisters that I always longed for growing up. They are the perfect pair to come back to after letting all my energy out with the boys.

This morning was the best of all mornings when Zoro woke up from his sleep as if we didn't find him a breath away from death. Chopper tried his best to keep Zoro from moving as much as possible, but after being out for three days, I'm sure that Zoro felt restless. He also had his mind set on laying to rest a sword he's had since Loguetown, which is why I'm now leading him to the Rumbar Pirate monument.

"You don't have to answer if you don't want to, but is there a reason that you want to put to rest this sword?" I glance up at Zoro who is still heavily bandaged, but he has changed into a dark grey shirt that isn't buttoned up. I've also changed since the end of the celebration, deciding on black sneakers, jean shorts, a plain blue t-shirt, and my hair down. "You didn't have it for long, yet it seems you have a strong attachment to it. Unlike other swords you've had."

He chuckles, "With the way you started, I didn't think that is what you were going to ask."

"What did you think I was going to ask?"

"About how I came to be so wounded, and if I could direct you to whoever it was to kick their ass."

I laugh, feeling my heart swell at the second half of his statement. "With how injured you were, I assumed you're the one who kicked ass. All that blood almost had me pass out you know?" I gently give him a shove.

"That's what I heard, but you didn't. That's one of the reasons that makes you stronger than most. You didn't let your fear overcome you, even when it would have been easier to."

"Thanks, Zoro. That means a lot coming from you."

"You really don't want to know what happened?"

I shake my head, "Before you woke up, I had already decided that it didn't matter what you went through. All I cared about is you waking up. All I cared about is you making a full recovery so I could fight at your side again."

He grins, rubbing his hand on the top of my head. "This sword wasn't like any other sword that I've had break. This was Yubashiri. Not only was it cursed, but it was one of fifty Skillful Grade Blades, and it deserves a proper resting place."