Separation

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In the dimly lit room of their hideout in Wano, Kinemon sat before the small group of Straw Hats, a map of Wano spread out on the table. Each member waited to hear their role in the elaborate plan to infiltrate and undermine Kaido's hold on Wano.

"Zoro, you'll assume the identity of a ronin named Zorojuro," Kinemon began, his voice steady and serious. "It's crucial you blend in. The guise of a masterless samurai will give you freedom to move around Wano."

Zoro, his arms crossed, nodded in silent agreement. The role of a wandering swordsman wasn't far from his own reality. However, a crease of concern formed on his brow as Kinemon turned his attention to Robin.

"Robin, you'll go undercover as a geisha named Orobi. Your intelligence and grace make you the perfect fit for gathering information within the inner circles, and your eventual goal is to gain access to Orochi's palace," He explained, meeting Robin's steady gaze.

Zoro's concern morphed into a scowl. "A geisha? Robin, do you really think—"

Robin gently placed a hand on his arm, her touch calming. "Zoro, I'll be fine. It's a strategic role. I can handle it," she said reassuringly, though her eyes hinted at understanding his concerns.

"But Robin..." Zoro's voice trailed off as he locked eyes with her. His trust in her abilities was unwavering, but the thought of her in close quarters with other men, even in a non-intimate setting like that of a geisha, gnawed at him.

With a heavy sigh, Zoro's arm found its way around Robin in a protective embrace. "Why can't you and Olivia just stay with me?" His words, barely more than a murmur, reflected his inner turmoil and discomfort with the situation.

As Kinemon finished outlining the roles for Zoro and Robin, the room's tension was palpable. Franky and Usopp, standing off to the side, exchanged glances, each contemplating their own part in this covert operation.

While Kinemon spoke, Zoro couldn't let go of the thought that a man would try to push his luck. His grip tightened around Robin as he wrestled with a mix of protectiveness and unease. "It doesn't sit right with me," he confessed, his voice low but strained. "Even if you're 'just entertaining,' it's hard knowing other men will be... around you." He chose his words carefully knowing that Olivia was listening, however, the flicker of jealousy in his eyes was unmistakable.

Robin understood his concerns. She faced him, her expression serious yet gentle. "Zoro, I know it's not ideal, but being a geisha is about art and performance. It's not the same as being an oiran. My role is to entertain with dance and music, nothing more," she explained, hoping to ease his worries.

"But even then, those men..." Zoro's words trailed off, his jaw clenching at the thought of other men even remotely thinking about Robin.

Robin placed her other hand on his cheek, turning his gaze back to her. "Listen to me, Zoro. I've handled far worse situations before. You know I can take care of myself," she reminded him, her tone firm yet filled with affection.

Zoro's eyes softened slightly, though the underlying concern remained. "I know you can handle yourself. It's just..." He paused, searching for the right words. "I just hate the thought of you in that environment."

Robin nodded, acknowledging his feelings. "I understand, Zoro. And I appreciate your concern. But we both have roles to play for now. Once this is over, we'll be back together, as we should be."

There was a long silence as Zoro processed her words. Finally, he exhaled slowly, his posture relaxing marginally. "Alright. But promise me you'll be careful. And if there's any trouble..."

"I'll find a way to let you know immediately," Robin assured him, finishing his sentence. A small smile graced her lips, grateful for his concern but also confident in her ability to fulfill her role.

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