The Swordsman's Cat ( Zoro X Reader)

Chapter 24 : Be Good

Chapter 24 : Be Good

As you processed the weight of your father's declaration, a mix of shock and disbelief colored your expression. Grounded? Not allowed to leave the island for the rest of your life? It sounded more like a punishment than a precaution. You glanced at Zoro, whose face mirrored your astonishment.

"Daddy, you can't be serious," you began, seeking clarification. "I understand the risks, but grounding me for life?!"

Your father remained steadfast, his stern gaze not faltering.

"This is not a punishment, Y/N. It's a necessary measure to ensure your safety and keep your identity concealed. We can't risk you being recognized out there. The bounty on your feline form is substantial, and if they connect the dots, both your forms will be hunted relentlessly."

As the weight of your father's words sank in, a whirlwind of emotions churned inside you. You grappled with the reality of being confined to this island indefinitely—secluded, your horizons limited. It felt like a lifetime of hiding and constraint, conflicting with your adventurous spirit.

Zoro, steadfast by your side, sensed your internal struggle. His grip on your hand tightened, a silent promise that you would face this challenge together, just as you always had.

You chose to remain silent, although anger simmered beneath the surface. Your father's abrupt decision had left you with a growing sense of frustration and constraint.

"For now, you are to remain here at all times. I have your Vivre Card as well. Do not entertain the thought that you can elude me, Gatita," your father's words were stern and unyielding.

There was little room for negotiation, and he seemed surprised by your unusual silence—an unexpected departure from your past self who might have reacted with fiery defiance.

Perhaps aiming to shift the focus, your father turned his attention to Zoro. "As for you, Roronoa, there is a boat at the end of the island that can aid you in your travels. I believe your captain has made a decision, and you should be departing soon."

Zoro's hand gently enveloped yours as he moved to the center of the room, displaying reluctance to leave you in your current emotional state.

You suspected it had something to do with the news Perona had been instructed to share with him—the image of Luffy's new tattoo.

With resolve, Zoro dropped to all fours and slammed his forehead to the ground, his voice resonating powerfully throughout the living room.

"Please! Train me to be a swordsman!"

Perona's eyes held a flicker of confusion, while your father looked away, unimpressed by the sight before him. Although he had respect for Zoro, his thoughts had shifted after hearing Zoro's request.

Your father's gaze remained unfazed by your soulmate bowing before him. "Are you asking your enemy for instruction? I'm disappointed in you, Roronoa!"

You understood your father's perspective. Zoro's dream was to become the world's greatest swordsman, a title currently held by your father. To Zoro, achieving this dream meant defeating your father. It didn't matter whether Zoro was your soulmate; in your father's eyes, Zoro was a potential adversary.

That or the fact that Zoro is in a way taking his precious daughter away from him.

"Shame on you. I think I was overestimating you. Get out of here; I have no time for a boring man," your father remarked, casually sipping his drink.

Zoro, his head still bowed, grunted but persisted, "I want to get stronger!"

Your eyes remained locked onto Zoro's form. You suppressed the whirlpool of emotions you felt, understanding that Zoro was dealing with a difficult situation while imploring your father.