"So wanna explain to me why Bartholomew Kuma is guarding our ship?"

  Shakky perked up at the familiar voice and felt a wide smile form on her face as a familiar redhead entered her bar.

  "I'm not sure. He's been defending it for a while now. Anyone who tries to attack it, has to deal with him and the "Rosy Life Riders" so there's nothing for you to worry about," she answered easily, wiping her hands as she turned to fully regard the redhead.

  He hummed at that and nodded. "Okay. I guess there's no need for me to take it then," he muttered.

  Rosan had still left a few guards there in case things went south but...

  ...Hm. Why was Kuma guarding their ship? If Rosan remembered correctly, Kuma had gotten his will completely overhauled. He was no longer "alive" anymore so for him to guard the ship... meant that it was programmed into him.

  Weird. Only one person could program Kuma to do that...

  Seems like he had more things to ask of Grandpa Vegapunk. What a shame... Rosan had been reluctantly finding more and more reasons to not immediately attack him.

  Bummer. Oh well.

  "Heard you wanted to see me," Rosan greeted, frowning slightly as he took a seat in front of her.

  Shakky leaned over the counter and pulled the redhead into a hug. "Of course I'd want to see you. I'm a little upset you took so long to visit," she chastised, friendly smile still on her face.

  The redhead sighed and yanked the lady over the counter, much to her slight surprise.

  "Showing off your strength? I'm old enough to be your mother you know?" she mused, not seeming to mind the action and just getting in a more comfortable position for the hug.

  "Aren't we related by blood?" Rosan asked in amusement.

  "You'd be surprised," she smiled, equally amused.

  The redhead sighed. "You know all things considered, you're very chill. Considering I haven't seen Robin in so long, it's very welcomed."

  "It's pretty easy to see how stressed you are. What's the matter?" she asked coolly.

  "Improving is hard. I'm trying not to be so codependent on everything and I might have started off too extreme," he explained.

  Shakky mulled that over. "Part of your training I imagine?"

  Rosan nodded. "I'm not only lacking in the power department. Mentally, I'm stunted as well."

  Shakky had a thoughtful expression.

  He sighed and looked at her. "I've been settling in mostly and I delayed meeting you so I'm sorry. It hasn't really registered to me that I have blood family... I'll do better."

  "I'm not mad at you. I'm glad you're alive. Seeing you take a fist through the chest didn't feel good to watch at all."

  That was a simple way of putting it. Rosan's death had been broadcasted... followed by that subsequent transformation... the permanent stains of black in his hair weren't for show, Shakky could tell.

  "I haven't known you for long and you're already stressing me out. Rooting for someone so reckless probably isn't good for my blood." Shakky smiled and pulled out a cigarette, preparing to light it, only for Rosan to pluck it right out of her hand.

  Rosan snorted in amusement and reduced it to cinders. "Things happened but I'm alive now... and stop smoking. It's not good for you."

  His aunt's smile never vanished. "It's been years since someone has reprimanded me like that. Not even Rayleigh does it you know?" she told him.

  Rosan rolled his eyes. "Whatever you say, Aunt. I'm burning every cigarette you pull out."

  Shakky looked pleased despite his words. "I've been meaning to curb it anyways... I guess you're good motivation for that. You're training for two years, right? What are you doing?"

  "Staying with Raisa. That's where Kuma sent me," Rosan replied easily.

  The bartender looked surprised at that.

  "With Raisa? Why not take me with you? It's been so long since I've seen them," Shakky mused.

  Rosan hummed. "You wanna come with? Sure but is it fine if you leave?"

  The bartender smiled. "Sure it is. If Rayleigh is helping the new generation, I could too. We're family after all so I'll get you nice and strong with Raisa," she replied, pulling herself.

  He grunted at that. "You're strong?" he asked curiously.

  Shakky looked coy in that moment. "You know, when I mentioned being a Kuja I never did tell you I used to be an Empress, did I?"

  The redhead blinked in surprise. "You were? Huh. That means you're pretty strong right?" he asked curiously.

  "Something like that. Let's go. I imagine Dalia and Oren are finally there too?" she asked, preparing to shut the shop down for a while.

  "Yeah they are. They're making up with Raisa and it's going well."

  Raisa was already a monster... Shakky was probably a monster in her own right. The both of them training him would bear fruit.

  "Alright, good. Let's be off then. Help me close the shop for the time being. I think I'm going to stay at Wisteria for a while."

  "Sure sure. Calm like Robin and uses me shamelessly like Robin too..." Rosan sighed in exasperation.

  Rayleigh was gone for the time being as well… she should spend some time with her family.

  She just needed to leave the vivre card here. She didnt think she'd be staying the full two years... but Shakky would be there for a long time.

  Raisa was hopelessly lost and in a situation she had no idea how to navigate through.

  Why?

  Well it was because Mod was currently in the throes of a mental breakdown.

  She didn't know what she had done. Raisa had just been teaching Mod the ropes of cooking and the two... even seemed to be enjoying it.

  Despite having absolutely no talent for it, Mod tackled cooking with a determination that Raisa had to admire.

  "No one thinks I'll ever actually learn how to cook. Now is the perfect time to prove them wrong," Mod had informed her, glaring at the mess of a pot.

  Raisa respected her desire to prove them wrong so the woman had taught her with a gusto.

  It almost seemed like Mod was appreciating her earnest efforts...

  But Raisa must have truly disgusted the woman to the core.

  Mod had been stirring a pot gently, wanting to help make a cake and Raisa had been tentatively guiding her on how to to do so.

  The Queen of Wisteria realized that Mod's hatred almost completely flew out the window when it came to Rosan.

  She truly did adore him.

  "Rosan loves cake. Anything sweet really," Mod rambled, focused intently on the batter.

  "Does he?" Raisa asked, holding her arm and making her slow down slightly.

  Mod shot her a grateful look. "Yes! Robin used to make him red velvet cake all the time. He loves candy too. Gummy ones are his favorite."

  "!" Raisa's eyes widened. "I love gummy candy too!"

  "You two truly have too many similarities," Mod said, placing the plate down to turn towards her.

  Raisa nodded enthusiastically, finding talking to Mod quite the pleasant experience. There was a smile on her face and her eyes glowed brightly.

  Mod stared at Raisa with a curious expression.

  "She really does like a lot like you, Rosan."

  Mod expected a response and didn't get anything back.

  "R-Rosan?"

  That's when her anxiety began to set in.

  While Rosan had been cut off from Mod on two different occasions, those same two times, Mod had been completely incapacitated. She was not used whatsoever to being separated from him...

  Rosan wasn't the only one with separation issues.

  "Mod?" Raisa called in concern as Mod completely froze staring at her face. "Are you alright?"

  Mod did not hear her. She had a nervous expression on her face.

  The woman reached for their connection and began breathing harshly at feeling nothing.

  W-Where was Rosan?

  Mod collapsed onto her knees and did a sharp inhale, sweat dripping off her features as she realized Rosan was not here.

  Was he... was he gone...? Did he... did Rosan leave her?!

  Raisa watched with a panicked expression as Mod began tearing up on the floor. The woman forgot everything and hastily approached the collapsed woman.

  "Mod?! Was it something I said? I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to hurt you!" Raisa exclaimed worriedly.

  What would Rosan do if he found Mod on the floor crying because of her? Would he hate her too?

  Raisa bit her lip and crouched down, hoisting the shorter woman up after an epic war of whether touching her was a good idea.

  To Raisa's disbelief, Mod clutched her tightly and continued shaking.

  "Where is Ram when you need her? I believe she's clothes shopping with Dalia... so they won't be here until the end of the day," Raisa thought in horror.

  What was Rosan doing? When was he going to return?!

  "It's okay, Mod," Raisa said softly, watching as tears fell from the woman. Mod shook and trembled in her grasp, a tiny whimper leaving her and the queen of Wisteria frowned in sorrow at the sensations she felt.

  Anxiety, terror... sadness. Raisa didn't know what she did but she had to make it up to her somehow...

  Raisa tentatively held Mod for who knows how long, completely silent as the woman just shuddered against her. She paid no mind to the tears spilling on her apron and just let Mod grieve against her.

  She felt an abnormal swell of relief, as two figures suddenly appeared in her room hours later.

  "Hm?" Rosan hummed in confusion, tilting his head.

  Shakky raised a slight brow, smile on her face widening as she made eye contact with the relieved Raisa.

  "Oh thank goodness," Raisa murmured. "Rosan, there's something wrong with—"

  Before she could finish her sentence, Mod launched herself off and lunged at Rosan, a sharp wail leaving her body as she tackled the man to the ground.

  "Woah!" Rosan exclaimed, catching her and watching as she wrapped him up tightly.

  Mod cried, tears spilling on his body. The woman had no intention of releasing him and just continued to sob.

  His expression softened and he grabbed Mod, hoisting her up and transforming her dress into something more form fitting.

  Mod hiccuped and squeezed him, burrowing her face into his neck.

  "Where's Ram?" Rosan asked calmly, letting Mod cling to him as he held her up.

  "She's shopping with Dalia..." Raisa mumbled warily.

  Her son hummed and nodded. "I'm gonna go tend to Mod-chan. Thank you for watching over her for me. Whatever you're thinking, it's not your fault."

  Rosan walked over to Raisa, idly adjusting Mod, and pulled her into a hug.

  Raisa seized up at that and shakily returned it, before Rosan pulled off and walked towards his room.

  "I'll be in my room if you need me," he waved.

  "C'mon Mod-chan. I'm here, don't worry."

  Raisa watched the two walk away with a soft expression, before turning towards the other woman there.

  "Aunt Shakuyaku. It's been quite a long time since we've seen each other," she greeted, only to gasp as the former empress pulled her into a tight hug.

  "I'm sorry. For so long, you probably had no one to check up on you," Shakky murmured, relaxed smile gone as she saw the woman.

  To think it had been around 27 years since she last saw the woman... and the entire time, Raisa had likely been suffering all alone.

  Raisa shook at that and shut her eyes.

  Shakky had been like a mother to the Raisa who had been severely lacking a proper adult figure in her life. They had a good relationship with each other and Raisa had even be taught by her.

  The prodigy had only grown stronger under Shakky's tutelage...

  "It's okay," Raisa whispered softly, squeezing her. "I likely would have pushed you away regardless. It's only until after meeting Rosan, was I able to better myself."

  "But I still should have tried. I really didn't know you went through such a thing..." Shakky said.

  Raisa took a deep breath. "Thank you, Aunt Shakuyaku. I do appreciate that... you were always the mother I wish I had," she sighed.

  Shakky smiled, wiping a slight tear. "Didn't I tell you? Just Shakky is fine, Raisa. You were always too proper."

  "I will try my best... now how long do you plan on staying? I was not aware you and Rosan were acquainted," Raisa observed.

  "I could say the same with you and him as well. When we met not long ago, he mentioned not knowing you... and now you seem hopelessly whipped," Shakky pointed out.

  Raisa nodded without hesitation. "That's because I am. I will do anything for Rosan."

  The former empress nearly laughed at the seriousness of Raisa.

  "Rayleigh is off training Straw Hat, so I decided to try my hand at it too. I'll stay here for a while, at least until Rayleigh returns to Sabaody," Shakky explained easily.

  Raisa nodded with a pleased smile. "You are always welcome on Wisteria. I'm happy you're here."

  "I'm happy to see you doing better. Now where are Oren and Dalia? I'd like to see them too."

  "You alright?" Rosan murmured, lying on the bed in his room.

  Mod sniffed and nodded against him. "I-I'm sorry. I don't know what got over me... It's just I realized at once that you weren't with me and I don't know what came over me but it all crashed into me at once and I began panicking..."

  Rosan sighed and tucked her into his frame. "It was an oversight by me. You aren't used to being separated from me at all because you've been unconscious both times."

  While Rosan had been suffering not having anyone with him during his travel, Mod was probably suffering far more and he hadn't realized.

  She was just as dependent on him as he was on her after all.

  "I'm here, Mod-chan, don't worry. You know you'll always have me," Rosan murmured.

  "I know... I know," Mod said shakily. "But is there really a point in us being able to have separate bodies, if this is my state after such little time has passed?"

  Mod made fun of Rosan for being so clingy but here she was, a complete mess after not having him.

  Even now, she couldn't find it in herself to let him go. She was hopelessly attached to Rosan.

  "I-I just wanted to bake you a cake. I can't even do that!" Mod cried, tears spilling on him.

  "Oh Mod-chan," Rosan sighed. "We just have to get better than. We'll get used... to being separated."

  She clutched him fearfully. "But..."

  Rosan sat upright, grasping her cheeks and slapping them. Mod yelped at the action and gazed at Rosan with wide eyes, getting the redhead to roll his eyes.

  "Have more confidence in yourself, Mod-chan. Do you know who you are?" Rosan asked, a fire in his eyes as he propped her up.

  "Who I am...?" Mod trailed off, not knowing where he was going with this.

  "You're Modification, Devil Fruit to Portgas D. Rosan. You're the one who didn't have a gender but got one all because I thought you were a girl without any hesitation. You're my partner of 20 years... the one who trained me into the formidable person I am today. You're the one who managed to keep me under control for all those years. Notice something?" Rosan asked.

  Mod shook her head, flushing happily at his words.

  "Everything I said has something to do with me," Rosan said bluntly, running a hand through her hair. "You and I are locked to the hip. Of course being apart from me seems impossible... but us being best friends probably never occured to you either did it? Or you walking around with your own body, right?"

  Mod nodded slowly, realization on her face at the confident smile on Rosan's.

  "We'll get through this. It'll be hard of course... but you've been my mother well into my adulthood. It's time for you to have a little bit of you time."

  A lump formed in her throat at that and Mod shut her eyes, sinking into Rosan.

  "Everyday, I find myself forever thankful that you are in my life," she whimpered, hugging him tightly. "You are the greatest thing to ever happen to me, Rosan."

  "Course I am. Imagine how boring you would have been without me," Rosan smiled, planting a kiss on her forehead. "Now c'mon let's get some rest. I'm not going anywhere for today at least."

  Mod sniffed and nodded. "I can't believe we can sleep together in reality now. Thank you so much."

  Rosan chuckled. "Of course. Now you can be like everyone else and cuddle me as you wish. I wish Robin were here to see this... maybe I'll surprise her anyways."

  She nodded affectionately, eyes shutting as a rare tiredness overcame her.

  Mod wasn't used to getting naturally tired... the thought of closing her eyes felt so good right now.

  "Let's ambush her tomorrow," she yawned.

  "You read my mind. She'll maybe get mad but I'll deal with it," Rosan smiled, shutting his eyes.

  "Robin would never get mad at me. Don't worry," Mod giggled.

  "Now that I think about it, I don't actually think you two ever get mad at each other," Rosan mused.

  "We're too busy being mad at you. You're insufferable."

  He let out a barking laugh. "That's true! It's up to me to make the two most important woman in my life not boring."

  "That's not something to laugh about, Rosan."

  "Yes mother. Now go to sleep."

  "Mhm..."

  Mod woke up for a split second through the night, as Ram entered the room and lazily took her spot atop Rosan. She pretended to stay asleep as the ring looked back and forth between her and Rosan, a smile making its way to her face.

  "I had... fun with Aunt Dalia today. Shopping isn't that bad but it's so tiring," she murmured to them.

  The Devil Fruits heart melted completely, as Ram planted a kiss on both their cheeks before abruptly falling asleep.

  Mod hid her grin and just buried herself deeper into the duo, getting ready to join them in sleep but stopping as the door tentatively opened once more.

  She watched Raisa hesitantly enter the room. The woman had taken Rosan's offer very greedily, opting to sleep in his room every chance she got.

  Today was clearly no exception but Mod guessed she was contemplating if it was worth potentially incurring her wrath.

  ...

  Mod sighed and lifted her head up, making eye contact with the woman's glowing gaze.

  Raisa stiffened, only to watch in confusion as Mod beckoned her over.

  The queen thought it was a trap... but Mod merely rested her head back against Rosan, seeming to only be interested in doing that.

  "Well, if she doesn't have a problem with it..."

  Raisa took a deep breath and approached the bed, idly sliding in and letting out a sigh of bliss as Rosan immediately offered his arm for her, still unconscious.

  "He must truly be used to being crowded. He doesn't even hesitate," Raisa mused, watching him curl the arm around her easily.

  That just seemed to be her son. He gave so much for his family... and never asked for anything in return. It was no wonder everyone loved him so much.

  It was no wonder Mod couldn't even stand to look at her. Raisa almost cost everyone such a shining beacon...

  "Raisa."

  Raisa froze at the whisper and glanced cautiously at Mod.

  "Yes, Mod?" she replied just as quietly.

  The Devil Fruit was staring directly at her, red eyes glowing in the night and clashing with Raisa's, similarly glowing, purples.

  "...I wanted to thank you... for holding me when I was having that breakdown," she mumbled, ducking her head. "If it weren't for you, I'd probably have reacted far worse so... thank you and sorry for inconveniencing you."

  Raisa blinked in disbelief. "Oh no, think nothing of it. I couldn't have possibly let you suffer by yourself if I could do something about it. I'm just glad it was because you missed Rosan and not because you truly hated me."

  Mod blinked. Raisa had thought that?

  "No... it wasn't because of you. I actually enjoyed our conversation. I know we cut the activity short, but I'd like to continue cooking with you again."

  Raisa lit up at that, a grin making its way to her face. "Truly?!" she asked, getting louder than expected.

  "Shut up," Rosan and Ram grunted, eyes still shut as they slept away.

  Raisa's cheeks colored and she kissed both their cheeks apologetically.

  "You'd like to continue?" she asked, quieter this time.

  Mod nodded with an amused smile. "Yes. It was enjoyable. I actually felt like I was making progress."

  Raisa's cheeks glowed at that and she nodded vigorously. "We can continue then of course. I'd be glad to take you on as my student as well."

  The queen watched the woman smile tentatively at that and felt her heart swell in delight.

  Was she perhaps... winning Mod over?

  Raisa smiled giddily at that and placed her head down, preparing for sleep.

  "Goodnight, Mod," she whispered.

  "Goodnight, Raisa," Mod replied back.

  Robin idly wrapped her hair with a towel and tightened another one around her body, sighing as she exited the bathroom attached to her room.

  Training had been as grueling as ever. Sabo was ruthless in a manner that reminded her of Rosan... which made sense considering they used to train with the redhead all the time.

  "I'm doing it again," Robin sighed, shaking her head slightly.

  Lately, she had been tracing everything back to Rosan. She couldn't help it... she missed him.

  Telling him that they should see each other less, right after she was forced to watch him nearly die, wasn't the smartest decision. Robin wanted to call him after day 1 but had been holding out strong.

  Though, it did sting that he didn't contact her at all... was it hypocritical of her? Absolutely. But, she was allowed to be a slight hypocrite when it came to her boyfriend.

  Besides, it wasn't like she was going to get angry with him for listening to her. It just hurt because in the first place, she didn't want to set up that boundary.

  Robin sighed. To be codependent... perhaps it was fine if they were? They hadn't seen each other in years. That had given them all the dependence they needed.

  She honestly felt like she was going mad these days. It wasn't easy at all but... her stubborn pride (that she definitely inherited from Rosan) decided she needed to be punished for making this decision.

  "Best to get changed," she murmured, entering her room and removing the towel to find new clothes...

  Robin froze as she felt a presence in the room, whirling towards it with wide eyes. She was wondering who could possibly have been in her room at this time of day, only to relax slightly at seeing a familiar head of red hair atop the body of the person sitting on her bed.

  "Hey Robin," Rosan greeted easily, smiling at seeing her.

  She had to stamp down her happiness at seeing him, crossing her arms and fixing him with a heavy glare.

  "Rosan! You can't just barge into peoples room! I'm naked!" she explained.

  Rosan raised a brow and shrugged. "So what? This is just a welcomed view for me," he said shamelessly.

  "Shameless pervert," she thought with a roll of her eyes, smiling slightly before wiping it away.

  "Why didn't you say anything until I noticed you?" she asked.

  "You looked deep in thought. You gotta let thinkers think. Else they activate their nerd powers and I have to hear it from them," Rosan replied, standing up and approaching her.

  Robin huffed. "Not even a full minute and you've successfully irritated me. You have a gift."

  "I know." He smiled and pulled her into a hug.

  "I'm still naked you know."

  "I know."

  Robin sighed, before returning the hopeless redhead's hug. "I've missed you," she admitted, feeling a little thrown by the sheer amount of relief she felt currently.

  Rosan sighed too. "You have no idea how much I wanna squeeze your cheek for saying we should see each other less... but I understand. You're right."

  "I was hoping you came here to tell me you disagreed with my idea and you're going to forcefully visit me every time now," Robin said forlornly.

  "I considered it... but recent events showed me you're right," he murmured, opening her closet and pulling out a set of clothes for her.

  Robin smiled thankfully and began the process of dressing up. "Recent events? What happened?" she asked curiously, smiling eagerly at seeing Ram materialize.

  "Mother! I missed you!" Ram beamed, launching herself into Robin's arms.

  "Ram!" Robin laughed, squeezing the little girl with a pleased smile. "Is this a new outfit? Look how cute you are!"

  Ram huffed, glancing at her simple shirt and skirt combo. "I hate it... but Aunt Dalia bought it for me so I have to wear it."

  "Have to?" Robin thought in confusion.

  Was Ram totally whipped by Dalia? How was this possible?

  Ram grumbled. "I see that look in your eyes... don't ask. I have no idea how she does it."

  Robin just laughed lightly and held her, turning towards the amused Rosan.

  "So what are these recent events you were speaking of. For them to make you realize you agree with being separated from me... they must be quite impactful."

  The redhead hummed and nodded, eyes flashing slightly as he suddenly split in two...

  Wait, what?

  Robin watched with wide eyes, as Rosan formed a copy of himself... that began transforming after he uttered the words, "Transfer Files."

  To Robin's complete and utter disbelief, the copy of Rosan, turned into... a perfect copy of Mod-chan?!

  "Hah," Mod breathed, blinking rapidly. "I'm still not used to that," she muttered.

  "Mod-chan?!" Robin exclaimed. "You managed to make her a body?!"

  The purple haired woman grinned brightly, grabbing Robin and squeezing her tightly.

  "I know we weren't supposed to visit you, but I was just so excited to see you in the real world!" Mod beamed, tears forming in her eyes at seeing her two little babies in the flesh at the same time.

  Robin and Rosan held a special place in her heart. They were her first two children, both playing a major part in breaking her out of her shell.

  To finally be able to hold them both...

  "I'm so happy I could cry!" Mod sobbed, holding them both.

  Robin's eyes softened, fog forming in them as she smiled brilliantly. With no hesitation, she squeezed the woman with all her might.

  "Don't apologize! I'd be furious if I figured out that you had a body so late!"

  Robin couldn't believe it. Not only were her two most important people back in her life, she could speak to the both of them at the same time... while awake! They no longer needed to sleep for her to see Mod-chan's face!

  "This is incredible!" Robin grinned, running a hand through the both of their hairs.

  Mod grinned. "Now instead of cutting the connection, Ram and I can leave the room whenever you two are about to—"

  "Mod-chan!" Robin interrupted immediately, gazing at the woman with an incredulous gaze.

  "Seriously," Rosan sighed, squeezing her cheek slightly.

  Mod giggled slightly. It felt good to embarrass her children!

  "So you've essentially, in computer terms at least, copied yourself and pasted it into the real world. Afterwards, you transferred some of your "data" into it, including Mod's consciousness, effectively giving her a body to operate on her own," Robin explained, cuddling him before he decided it was time to go.

  "Mhm," Rosan smiled.

  "It's not very useful in combat. Rosan admitted that it was solely a technique to get me into the real world," Mod admitted, smiling fondly at him.

  "That's so sweet," Robin sighed.

  "Isn't it? But, I've already thought of a useful application for it!"

  Rosan perked up at the look of determination on Mod's face.

  "What is it?" he asked. Personally, Rosan hadn't been thinking of a way to use it outside of allowing Mod to have total freedom. That was his primary goal for the technique and he achieved it, so there was only improving and making it better.

  "We can use it to learn twice as fast!" Mod exclaimed. "The two of us can take the time to practice different things. While we have varying power, our minds are still brilliant! You'll learn one thing, I'll learn the other... so when we recombine, the information is shared between the both of us!"

  The redhead's eyes widened slightly at that. "That's genius!"

  Robin nodded in agreement, mouth opening at the possibilities. "Double the workload... double the experience. It's like..."

  "Real life cheats," Rosan finished her train of thought, pulling Mod into a tight hug and laughing with her. "I've stagnated for 10 years. It's time for us to make up for lost time!"

  Mod laughed in joy. "I can finally be useful to you! We'll discuss what we're learning for the day and make sure they don't overlap."

  "With how efficient you two naturally are, you'll be able to maximize your training too," Robin muttered, eyes running with information at the incredible technique.

  "And you think you aren't useful to me! There's no need for you to be insecure, Mod-chan."

  Mod blushed at that and held her head.

  "He's right you know, Mod-chan. You've gotta give yourself more credit."

  The three perked up at that voice and Rosan felt a smile forming at seeing Sabo materialize in the room.

  Robin rolled her eyes. "What is it with you brothers entering my room without knocking?" she asked, not truly upset.

  Sabo held his hands up innocently. "Hey, I wanted to barge in immediately. I heard and felt Rosan the moment he showed up."

  The Devil Child raised a brow curiously. "So why didn't you?"

  "I heard "I'm naked" and immediately stopped focusing on you guys. I wasn't trying to hear my brother and sister having—"

  "Sabo!" Rosan and Robin barked, cheeks dusting in disbelief.

  Sabo let out a barking laugh, catching Ram and exchanging a hug with her. "It's a valid concern! I wouldn't want to see anything like that!"

  Mod giggled, launching herself up and against Sabo with a bright grin. "I was concerned of the same thing!"

  The blonde chuckled and squeezed her. "Now that you have your own body, you're safe."

  "What is this?" Robin thought in disbelief.

  "I have no idea," Rosan sighed.

  "Look at you, Mod-chan! You have your own body now!" Sabo awed, holding her by the shoulders and inspecting the woman top to bottom.

  Mod beamed, cheeks rosy. "Yes! I'm completely separate from Rosan right now! We don't even have a range limit!"

  "That's incredible!" Sabo grinned.

  Rosan rolled his eyes. "Where's Koala? I wouldn't have expected her to let you out of her sight."

  "She doesn't. Sabo's teasing us but he and Koala are no better—"

  "Robin!" Sabo interjected immediately, groaning at the smug smile that appeared on Rosan's face.

  "She must be sleeping then," Rosan huffed in amusement, rolling his eyes.

  "Shut up!" Sabo said firmly, glaring at his older brother.

  Rosan chuckled. "Think twice before teasing me again. I wonder what face Koala would make if her boyfriend turned into her girlfriend!"

  Sabo blinked, before a look of horror appeared on his face. "Don't you even think about it, Rosan! I'm serious!"

  Robin laughed aloud. It was always good to have someone like Rosan, who would ensure anyone who dared to tease either of them paid the price.

  "So you severed ties with Izumi?" Robin asked curiously, pursing her lips at that.

  "I wasn't aware of that either..." Mod said, contemplation on her face.

  Rosan nodded, leaning back. "Our relationship is too toxic. Not good for each other. The only way I could find it in myself to no longer be angry with her, was by fully letting her go."

  "They are still alive?" Sabo raised a brow.

  "Yeah. I didn't kill any of them. It would defeat the purpose... but if we ever meet again, they might not be so lucky," Rosan said truthfully, shutting his eyes and humming a tune.

  Robin allowed the tune to wash over her, a small smile forming. "Your initiative to becoming a better person, is awe inspiring. I'm sure no one even told you to do that."

  "It's something I decided on my own," Rosan laughed. "My family is incredible. I have to match them."

  The redhead grunted and sat up. "Alright, I've visited you guys long enough. I'm gonna head back to Wisteria," he told them, pulling Robin into a kiss and standing up.

  Robin sighed and pulled Mod and Ram into a hug. "Okay. Take care of yourself," she said, a hint of disappointment on her face.

  Rosan instantly caught it and pulled her close. "Now that I've figured this technique out, how about we go out, just the two of us?" he asked curiously.

  She perked up at that and mulled it over, serious expression failing to hide her smile. "It's a date."

  Rosan grinned and chuckled, before stepping back and waving at the two.

  "Oh! Let me use Save Point!" Mod demanded, eyes glowing as she grabbed both Rosan and Ram.

  "Alright alright. Let's start discussing a plan on what we'll each practice."

  "You'll have to do all physical activities still! Conditioning the body is only effective on you."

  Robin watched the two discuss with a small smile.

  "You wanna train more don't you?" Sabo asked knowingly.

  "I just bathed too," she sighed forlornly, standing up.

  "Koala won't be happy. She's bathing right now."

  Sabo watched the impish smile on Robin's face and groaned in annoyance, vanishing before she could even say anything.

  Let Koala deal with Robin when she was like this. Better for his girlfriend (he was pretty sure they were dating now? They never quite confirmed it) to be embarrassed.

  "Dragon. I heard you wanted to speak," Rosan said, staring at the back of the world's most wanted man.

  "Rosan," Dragon greeted, turning towards him with a severe expression. "I would have liked to speak to you sooner but you've not visited as often as I expected you to."

  Rosan huffed at that. "Seriously? Why does everyone think I'm so obsessed with Robin?" he muttered.

  "..." Dragon raised a single brow.

  "...She's obsessed with me too," he grumbled.

  Rosan shook his head. "What did you want to talk about?" he asked.

  Dragon stared at him. "Nothing so serious. I just wished to clarify some things with you."

  The redhead leaned against a wall and nodded. "Sure. It's the least I could do since you're helping train Robin."

  "Just her presence alone is valuable enough where I don't feel the need to request anything. This is just the curiosity of a person who considers you his ally," Dragon said coolly.

  Rosan tilted his head. "Alright. Ask away."

  "First, your Devil Fruit," Dragon began, brows slightly furrowed.

  "Modification," Rosan replied easily, summoning a cube above his palm easily. "I'm a computer man. I can modify whatever I touch. It's been a core ability in keeping my identity mostly hidden over the years," he replied.

  Dragon nodded. "The Marines value it, I imagine."

  "Quite a lot. Enough for them to prioritize capturing over killing me in an ideal situation. It's apparently a Devil Fruit that's been tampered with by Dr. Vegapunk," he replied calmly.

  "Vegapunk? That would make sense... it must have been a personal project by him," Dragon mused.

  Rosan pursed his lips. "You know him?"

  "We're acquainted. Vegapunk is not a bad person... despite his allegiance with the World Government, you might find a conversation with him rewarding. I'm sure he has eyes on you currently and is eager to meet you," Dragon explained.

  "I seem to be realizing that more and more... but if you say he isn't bad, I'll trust your judgement," Rosan grunted.

  Dragon nodded. "You helped free Iva. Thank you for that."

  "I'm sure he could have freed himself if he wanted. Iva is a competent and eccentric person," Rosan waved it off.

  The leader of the revolutionaries stared at him.

  "I heard you and Raisa have made amends," Dragon pointed out.

  "You know Raisa too?" Rosan asked curiously.

  "I do. I called her the night we first met. Of course, I protected your location since it appeared she abandoned you."

  Rosan had a look of appreciation at that. "Thanks... but we've made up now. She's training me right now."

  "Good. She sounded like she was going through quite a lot. I'm glad you and her managed to mend your nonexistent relationship."

  Dragons voice was measured, but there was no doubt he was happy for Rosan's birth mother.

  "If you try talking to her again, I'm sure she'll be more receptive. She's been very happy lately."

  "I'll consider that," Dragon agreed.

  Rosan shrugged. That was up to him. It was not his place to speak for the two.

  "I can tell you still want to say something... what is it?" he asked curiously.

  Dragon said nothing for a while. Then he gazed directly at Rosan.

  "Thank you for taking care of Luffy and Sabo, Rosan... but if you don't care for yourself, all your efforts for them will be wasted. They rely on your safety as much as you rely on theirs... so ensure that you do not die again. I would hate to lose three of my sons."

  Rosan's eyes widened at that and he stared at Dragon. His red eyes were shining in confusion and he almost looked like he didn't know what to say.

  But, eventually he snorted.

  "You've got a lot of gall to call yourself a father, Dragon. I'm more Luffy's dad than you are," he said, rolling his eyes.

  "That is not something I will deny... but that does not change my feelings. Take care of yourself, Rosan... and be wary of your real father. I wasn't aware you were a Rocks."

  Rosan huffed. "That name... Rocks. I wonder just how terrible my uncle was for it to carry so much weight. Regrettably, Whitebeard died before I could question him... and I imagine you don't know too much."

  "You're right. Your best bet at information, would be either Kaido or Charlotte Linlin... though, there are likely scattered members of the Rocks pirates around the world, who are now interested in your name."

  Rosan mulled that over. "Whatever. They'll seek me out. I'm far too desired for them to stay silent. I'll crush anyone who seeks me out and take the information I want."

  Dragon nodded. "A reasonable decision. I wish you luck on your endeavors."

  "Don't wish me luck. Wish Robin luck. This is for her," he sighed, raking a hand through his hair.

  "Nico Robin appreciates you very much," Dragon noted, a small grin on his face. "She is always periodically glancing to her left. Whether it be after training, eating or speaking."

  Rosan's eyes lit up. "Oh I'm going to tease her so much. Thanks so much, Dragon."

  Before Dragon could even say anything, Rosan rocketed off to make good on his words.

  The Revolutionary watched him go and shook his head, turning back around to gaze out into sea.

  Rosan ducked under a wild torrent of flames, grunting as the ground underneath him erupted. The earthquake dislodged the ground and he grabbed a few stray pieces, charging them with electricity and launching them.

  The sharp rocks flew through the air with brutal speeds, sparking brightly. They only grew more dangerous as a wave of blue ice covered the rocks.

  A wall of earth blocked off the trajectory, to no avail. The rocks pierced through the wall with startling ease and Oren grunted, launching himself away with more power than speed.

  The ground shook as he did so, the giant drake avoiding the deadly rocks.

  He growled and opened his mouth, firing a torrent of flames that collided with a breath of chilly ice.

  The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

  Dalia snarled in her full zoan, as her attack collided with Oren's. A wall of steam formed from the fire and ice, before Rosan burst through it, careening towards the Drake with narrowed eyes... Only for him to clash with a club instead.

  Maro grinned violently, eyes pulsing as she launched the redhead backwards. She reared her club back and smashed it onto the ground, dislodging a flurry of stone that she proceeded to bathe in her blue flames.

  Oren matched her grin and roared, launching the flaming stones toward the duo of Dalia and Rosan.

  Rosan was nonplussed. He held out a hand and fired a wave of ice that Dalia immediately followed up on, summoning her own torrent of blue ice.

  It froze over the rocks completely and Rosan dashed forward, tapping each frozen rock before they could fall to the ground.

  "Goddamnit!" Maro barked, watching as they morphed into spears of ice.

  "On it," Oren rumbled, lifting one of his legs once more and smashing it on the ground. A wall formed once more that blocked the spears of ice and Maro grinned, conjuring 3 fireballs that she launched at Dalia.

  The wyrm yelped at the flames flying towards her, hastily firing a beam of ice that only managed to stifle one. Before the other two could crash into her, Rosan held a hand upwards and destroyed them with a large beam.

  Rosan's eyes narrowed and he made eye contact with the giant Dalia, aiming his hand forward to fire another beam at their opponents.

  Maro sneered and jumped in front of it, club taking a sheen as she bat the beam away. She once again charged Rosan.

  Rosan transformed Ram into a simple katana, dashing forward and meeting her head on. Their weapons clashed and they began a dance.

  "Her unlocking Armament was really inconvenient for me," he sighed, parrying a swipe and having it glide off. He attempted to slash at her midsection but she recovered quickly, slamming Daisy downwards to connect with his katana and making him stumble slightly from the loss of balance.

  He palmed the floor as he committed to the fall and launched himself upwards, barely managing to avoid Maro's lunging grab. The giant Dokkaebi snarled and reached up to grab him, only to growl in annoyance as the airborne Rosan slammed a tail against her head.

  It barely moved her, only serving to knock her head downwards, but Rosan used the momentum to launch himself at the Oren charging Dalia.

  Oren grunted as a tail wrapped around his neck and yanked him back, giving Dalia enough time to finish charging her attack.

  Rosan leapt into the air, hair turning a shade of white.

  "All Hail," he muttered, summoning a hail storm.

  At the same time, Dalia opened her mouth and let loose a torrent of ice that seemed to grow in size as it absorbed the hail around it.

  "Oh shit," Maro hissed, vanishing and appearing next to Oren just in time for him to throw up a dome.

  The giant wyrm continued firing the raw beam of ice, colliding with the entire battlefield.

  "Alright, that's enough! Before you all destroy even more of the arena!" Raisa shouted through the window. She turned towards Angel and Mod immediately, making sure the duo didn't burn down the kitchen and sighed in relief at watching them carefully work at the food.

  "Coooold," Maro shivered, transforming back to normal as the dome vanished. She rubbed her arms against each other, blowing out a cold breath as the icy battlefield dropped the temperature.

  "Tell me about it," Oren huffed, wiping the ice off his hair. He blew out a puff of flames and Maro sighed, inching closer to him to absorb the heat.

  Dalia gaped, tears forming in her eyes as she leapt atop Rosan with a loud cheer.

  Rosan grunted in surprise at that, catching the much smaller woman as she wrapped every limb around him.

  "I can't believe it! I actually won!" Dalia sobbed happily.

  Maro twitched at that and resisted the urge to open her mouth and say she was very much still raring to go... because this seemed important to Dalia.

  Rosan smiled and hugged her. "Not used to it?"

  Dalia sniffed and shook her head. "I've never beat Oren or Raisa... I'm really weak!" she exclaimed.

  He pat his fellow redhead. "Weak? That attack looked nothing weak," he praised, allowing her to snuggle him.

  "That's because of you! You're such a good partner! I feel like I can do anything with you supporting me!" Dalia beamed.

  "Course, I'm awesome after all," Rosan laughed.

  Demon chuckled, conversing with the Mikita who had been watching the battle with wide eyes. "Is anyone hurt?" he asked.

  "No! I wanna keep fighting!" Maro complained.

  "I'm good," Oren agreed.

  "Ditto," Rosan nodded.

  "...Me too," Dalia said.

  At once, Raisa and Rosan both turned towards her.

  "Liar," they said in unison, glaring at her.

  Dalia's face colored at that and she ducked her head against Rosan.

  "It's just my middle a bit," she mumbled.

  Demon sighed in disappointment, peeling his tiny aunt from Rosan's grasp. "Don't ever hide your injuries from me again, understood?" he said firmly.

  Dalia nodded meekly at her stern nephew. "I'm sorry. I wanted to be tough like them."

  "We won't think any less of you. We're your family, you know?" Demon assured.

  Dalia sniffed at that, lips wobbling. "I-I'm sorry! I have a bad perception of how to appear in front of family."

  Mod smiled delicately, balancing a large tray of lunch. "We aren't anything like your less than stellar parents. You're allowed to be vulnerable around us."

  "Yeah! None of us are perfect! I'm a bitch but Maro still loves me!" Angel beamed, holding drinks for everyone.

  "I love you for all your faults. Even though I think you're super perfect already, it makes our relationship way more fun with our different faults," Maro laughed, appearing next to Angel and taking the tray out of her hand.

  Rosan snorted. "I'm far from perfect so don't force yourself to be perfect around me. I won't think any less of you, Aunt Dalia," he chuckled.

  Dalia, Oren and Raisa gained a stunned look on their face as they gazed at the group of 5.

  "You guys... you're so sweet!" Dalia sobbed, crushing Demon happily.

  "So this is what a healthy family looks like," Oren laughed, scratching the back of his head.

  "I'm jealous," Raisa admitted.

  Rosan threw his head back and let out a barking laugh. "Healthy? It took a lot of time for us to get to this stage. I was terrible to them..."

  "What?!" Maro and Angel barked in fury.

  "Master, you were amazing to me!" Angel snarled. "I'm the one who was afraid of you for no reason!"

  "I already told you that I'm happy you made me do that!" Maro barked, shaking her club in warning.

  Rosan held his hands up and dragged them both into a hug, idly sipping from one of the cups as they melted against him.

  "I know. I know," he murmured, rolling his eyes.

  "What's the story behind that?" Oren asked curiously, taking one of the cups and sitting down.

  "Lot of things," Rosan sighed, leaning forward and taking the tray out of Mod's hand.

  "It's really such a long story," Mod agreed, conjuring a chair for both her and Rosan to sit on. She grabbed two plates and sat down, digging into her platter of sandwiches with a pleased hum.

  Rosan sat next to her and combined the plate, before Ram formed and sat between the two, taking three sandwiches for herself and happily eating them.

  "Greedy," Rosan and Mod muttered under their breath, successfully making a tick form on her head.

  "I'm hungry! Leave me alone!" Ram barked.

  Demon laughed softly. "You guys probably know by now, but Master was... a very angry child," he started, a small frown forming as Mikita grabbed a plate for the both of them.

  "He's been through a lot. Just being angry is a small miracle," Angel defended, sitting with Maro.

  Mod nodded with a sad smile. "He'd be worse really... but Rosan didn't want to disappoint me."

  Raisa frowned in distraught at that, turning towards the Rosan tugging Ram's cheek with a small smile.

  "Yeah, I was shitty," Rosan nodded. "My anger issues, combined with the fact that I created Angel and Demon, made them terrified of me. As their creator, they thought angering me would lead to their destruction... and I was quick to anger."

  "Stupid of us, I know," Angel sighed. "We couldn't really rationalize it. Master created us so easily... Master Mod was the one who gave us emotions. We thought with how easy it was to create us, Master would just replace us at the earliest inconvenience."

  "Oh damn," Oren frowned.

  "I... wasn't aware of that," Mikita said softly.

  Demon ran a hand through his air. "Things got better because Master would never do that to us, but Angel and I plunged ourselves back into that when Master lost his emotions."

  Rosan scratched his hair. "It wasn't baseless. I screamed at you guys and never apologized for it until years later. What matters is now you guys know I won't do anything to you!"

  "Yeah because you're our awesome big brother!" Angel cheered.

  "You're damn right I am," Rosan grinned, taking a sandwich and consuming it.

  "He's a much better big brother than me," Oren thought, watching how affectionately Angel and Demon stared at Rosan.

  A big brother who protected his little siblings totally... Oren was practically green in envy at that.

  "What about Maro?" Dalia asked curiously. "What did he do to you?"

  Maro grinned. "Well you guys already know I used to be homeless without a name so Master made me his student!"

  Everyone nodded at that, still stunned that the gorgeous woman speaking used to be living in such horrible conditions.

  "For our very first mission, Master brought me to a criminal who was the scum of the world! This dude was real bad, someone you smile after killing because the world became a better place," Maro explained animatedly.

  Dalia nodded, a wary expression on her face. First mission? With Reaper? How old had Maro been?

  "Well, current me would have curb stomped him without hesitation but back then... I wasn't as impressive. I couldn't do it so Master did it for me," she scratched her head sheepishly.

  "You're downplaying it," Rosan interjected. "What I did to you was completely uncalled for and downright evil."

  Maro flinched at that and shook her head. "But it's fine, Master! Imagine if I didn't have a cutthroat side to me! I'd never be able to be queen!"

  "What happened?" Raisa interrupted quietly, watching the frown on Rosan's face.

  "I forced Maro to do that. I manipulated her into thinking that unless she could fight for me, she was worthless," he said bluntly.

  The three blinked in horror at that, gasps leaving their mouths.

  "She was only 11 years old when I told her that she is an extension of me... and when she failed to kill that man, I nearly discarded her use as my soldier," Rosan grunted, sighing at his thoughtless actions.

  "11...? Seriously?" Oren muttered, a horrified expression on his face.

  "W-Well when you put it like that... it was pretty bad, huh?" Maro mused, scratching her head sheepishly.

  Rosan sighed. "I know you think otherwise, but I do showing you the violence of the world at such a young age."

  "Bah! It's fine!" Maro waved him off, flexing her arm and getting a coo out of Angel in the process. "I didn't know the full details of what I was getting into... but I still had an idea! I asked for this Master and I seriously don't get why you're beating yourself up still even when I'm not."

  She giggled as a tail mussed up her hair, watching as Rosan sighed in exasperation.

  "This is why you're my prized student. A kindness, not even stifled by me," he hummed.

  "My kindness will never vanish so long as I get to stare at you and Angel whenever I want!" Maro cackled.

  "Pervert."

  Maro spluttered at the voices.

  "You guys have gone through so much," Dalia awed.

  "Tell us about it! It's never boring with Master or Luffy!" Angel cackled.

  "Could you... tell us some more stories?" Raisa asked tentatively, grabbing one of her sandwiches as she stared at them with a pleading gaze.

  "Sure. We're taking a small break anyways. Shakky should be done with her business so I'll go get her soon," Rosan agreed easily enough.

  "Oh! Tell them about the time we invaded Germa!" Maro laughed.

  The pirate chuckled and nodded, leaning back as he prepared to tell the tale.

  "Well, it all started when my spoiled brat of a student, decided she wanted to invade a place with actual stakes."

  "Master! Do not call me a spoiled brat! Hey! Stop ignoring me damnit!"

  "Hey."

  Robin perked up at that, a smile making its way to her face at seeing Rosan there.

  He was ringless, with a small smile on his face and a rare bag.

  Robin was very sure she hadn't seen Rosan with a bag since they were kids.

  "Rosan!" she smiled, standing up and pulling him close. "What's the occasion?"

  He caught her easily, eyes shining in mirth. "I think it's weird how I've never taken you out on a proper date. I've decided today is the perfect day to rectify such a grave mistake," he said seriously.

  Robin rolled her eyes. "How charming. I was beginning to think my boyfriend didn't appreciate me."

  The redhead rolled his eyes in return. "I thought I showed you plenty times, how much I appreciated you... but I guess I have to remind you," he snorted.

  He pulled out a bouquet of roses and Robin felt her heart swell at the assortment of colors.

  Red, purple, white...

  "We both love the color black so I would have added it... but giving my girlfriend black roses, doesn't really seem like a good omen," he sighed forlornly.

  "I've never been given a bouquet of flowers before," Robin said, tentatively taking it and giving him a kiss on the cheek.

  "Thank you. This is very sweet."

  Robin was not the best with her words when it came to the more... emotional aspect of things. Part of her feared that she wasn't really equipped to handle someone like Rosan, evidenced by the way she slightly cringed back at her rather lackluster words...

  But she was very silly. No one would probably be able to understand her intent like this redhead right here.

  Rosan laughed slightly and tugged her forward, grabbing a stray pen on her desk and transforming it into a vase in the same action.

  "Hey you don't gotta act any differently. Continue to be my studious little nerd. I won't get mad that you suck with your words," he assured.

  Robin twitched and despite the fact that she was pleased he could read her so easily, he was still really annoying.

  "Let me get changed annoying little boy," she demanded, smiling all the while.

  "I'm only 4 years younger than you, you know," Rosan said flatly, rolling his eyes. "Also, wear something comfortable. I wanted our first date to be something simpler."

  How thoughtful of him. Robin herself didn't mind if they never actually went on a date. Just his presence was enough to satisfy her and vice versa. They didn't need to go out to enjoy the other's company.

  But it was appreciated all the same. Robin had never been on an actual date before. It would be a fun experience!

  "You're growing your hair?" Rosan asked curiously, glancing at the black strands and idly grabbing them.

  Robin batted his arm aside momentarily, to easily put her short dress on. "I've considered it. Do you think it's a bad idea?" she asked, turning towards him.

  Rosan tilted his head.

  Her hair was a tad different too. It was pulled back, revealing more of her forehead and ears and Rosan hummed at her signature red strand hanging to her chin.

  "I like it. Whatever you do, I'll like," he said eventually, reaching out to grab at it again. "I can do this easier now too!"

  He leaned in and planted a kiss on her exposed forehead, making Robin sigh in exasperation, trying not to show him her smile.

  "Can you pass me my heels? They're over there."

  Rosan saluted and went to grab them, before helping her put them on.

  "Aren't you just a gentleman today!" Robin exclaimed with wide eyes, allowing the redhead to secure them both.

  He huffed. "I can't harass you all the time now can I? I'm supposed to be a gentleman sometimes to you."

  "Sometimes? Are you serious? Where did you read such twisted things," Robin asked. She crossed her arms and stared judgmentally at the redhead.

  "Reading about dating? No thanks. I'm just winging it," Rosan laughed, grabbing her by the waist as his eyes began glowing.

  Robin resisted the urge to pinch her nose. "Every day, you give me second thoughts on whether this was truly a good idea."

  "There's no need to lie. We're both hopelessly in love. It's why I put myself through the pain of bringing you to a museum first."

  Robin's eyes glowed in fascination. "A museum? Truly? Perhaps I was being to harsh on you."

  Rosan sighed forlornly as they vanished. "Nerd."

  Despite his initial complaint, Robin heard nothing negative again from the redhead again. Once their date officially began, Rosan had truly become the perfect gentleman.

  They were in a museum belonging to Wisteria and Robin had practically dragged him across the entire place.

  It was everything Robin could have asked for! She wanted to learn more about Rosan's lineage and the redhead had giftwrapped it to her!

  "The museum mostly serves as a token of victory for the Iris," Rosan explained, opting to be the guide for her.

  Robin hummed at that. "What's this?" she asked, beckoning towards the giant serpentine body that seemed to dominate a part of the museum.

  "That's the body of a mutated snake that inhabited Wisteria," Rosan explained easily. "Back in the days, the people of this island didn't have nearly as much territory to cover. This giant snake terrorized them and was the main culprit. Then, king Iris D. Ran showed up one day with a strange woman by the name of Allium."

  Robin listened with a fascinated gaze, surprised that Rosan knew about this.

  "Allium was the Empress of an island in the Grand Line called Amazon Island and she was also a pirate captain. She encountered King Ran on a voyage but before she could sink his ship, something occured and allegedly, the two ended up stranded on an island. One thing led to another and Ran ended up helping their crew. Allium ended up contracting lovesickness for him and she sent the rest of her crew back, before following him to Wisteria."

  Rosan smiled.

  "As a declaration of her love, Allium and her snake both fought this giant serpent alone and slayed it."

  "That sounds like something you would do... and Hancock too," Robin added with a smile.

  Rosan snorted. "She cleaned up all the monsters on this island. By the end, the people practically worshipped her. Allium and Ran immediately married each other and so began, the combined lineage of the Iris and Kuja."

  Robin gazed at Rosan with wide eyes. "You know far more than I imagined. History has never been something that's interested you."

  "I learned it recently when I decided to be your guide," Rosan replied easily, eyes glinting proudly. "I had Raisa, Oren and that sweet old lady at the entrance teach me. Would be no good if you weren't learning anything."

  "Why is he trying to make me fall even harder? Doesn't he already know I'm whipped?" Robin thought in disbelief, gazing at the redhead.

  "Come on! We've got a bit more before I take you out to dinner," Rosan urged, tugging her along.

  "...Right," Robin said, utterly dazed by his actions and just letting him drag her through the museum.

  Two figures watched them go.

  "Should we really be watching them?" Raisa asked Mod curiously.

  "P-Probably not. But this is their first date! I just want to make sure Rosan doesn't mess it up!" Mod whispered back, fixing her shades.

  Raisa stared at the couples back and tilted her head, a small smile forming on her face.

  "I don't think he can. Look at how she looks at him," the queen pointed out, adjusting her sunhat idly. "Why, I imagine if this goes on, she may jump him in the museum."

  "R-Raisa!" Mod nearly shouted, face turning an atomic shade of red.

  "What?! I want more grandchildren and Ram wants more siblings!" Raisa hissed. "The faster she throws caution to the wind, the better!"

  "This is where Rosan got his shamelessness from!" Mod realized in horror, holding her head.

  While she wanted grandchildren too... this was bizarre!

  "This is just a date, Raisa. Don't expect anything too crazy to happen!" Mod chastised.

  "Hmph," Raisa crossed her arm and grumbled.

  After exploring the entirety of the museum, Robin had been taken to an expensive restaurant for the two to enjoy dinner.

  "Such a fancy restaurant," Robin smiled, delicately eating her plate.

  "It's nice. Sanji is a better cook but it's nice to try different peoples cooking," Rosan smiled.

  The two ate their meal in peace, a comfortable silence falling over the two that somewhat confused Robin.

  She glanced up to see Rosan's intense gaze staring at her. There was a contemplation in his eyes and she blinked at the other unknown emotion in them.

  "Rosan? Is something wrong?" Robin asked curiously.

  The redhead tilted his head and hummed. "Nothing. Come on, I've already paid the bill."

  Robin blinked and allowed Rosan to tug her away.

  The night sky was out now, lights of Wisteria glowing in a way that enhanced the cities beauty. The island was gorgeous and Robin appreciate the little sights.

  She and Rosan walked side by side and Robin thought about it, before reaching out to grab his hand.

  Rosan stared at her hand and smiled, squeezing her hand as he directed her to a clearing deeper in the forests of Wisteria.

  Robin looked at the area in appreciation and watched as Rosan sighed in approval.

  He placed a soft sheet on the floor and promptly lied down.

  Robin looked at the uncharacteristic move by Rosan and smiled, following suit and lying next to him.

  "The night sky is beautiful," Robin noted.

  "Is this the part where I say not as beautiful as you?" Rosan replied, chuckling slightly at the scalding glare she shot him.

  "Do you remember when we were kids and the two of us would have our nightmares? We'd both be so afraid of sleeping, that we'd go out to the deck and just cuddle while staring at the night sky," Rosan said wistfully.

  Robin's expression softened at that memory. "We would talk about anything and everything to take our minds off of it. Then we'd fall asleep in each others grasps and wake up in bed because Mod-chan took over and carried me."

  Rosan laughed at that. "20 years. We've known each other for 20 years... there's no one alive besides Mod-chan who's known me longer."

  "Rosan?" Robin mused, turning towards him with a curious expression. "Are you alright?"

  He hummed thoughtfully and turned towards her. "Robin, can we talk? It's important."

  ...Can we talk?

  Robin's expression immediately turned wary. "Are you breaking up with me?" she asked immediately, feeling a slight panic at that.

  She never actually thought there would be a time where Rosan broke up with her, unless she did something ridiculously stupid like at Water 7. Judging by the sheer panic in his eyes when he had thought she was going to do such a thing, it hadn't occurred to her that he would feel the need to ever break up.

  ...But he did seem to accept it very quickly.

  Oh dear.

  "What the hell are you talking about?" Rosan raised a brow, placing a hand on her shoulders and shaking her slightly. "No, I'm not breaking up with you. I actually wanted to do the opposite."

  "...The opposite?" Robin asked in confusion.

  The woman froze in total disbelief, as Rosan reached behind him and pulled out a small box.

  Was that what she thought it was?

  "I've been thinking about it for a while... and even though we probably wouldn't have one until after our journey... I still want you to realize that I want to marry you," Rosan said softly, eyes glowing brightly.

  ...

  Robin's mouth opened in shock at that, gazing at the ruby ring with wide eyes.

  It was simple, exactly how Robin liked it, and carefully crafted, fashioned in black. The gem gleamed in the night and Robin felt a lump form in her throat at that.

  "You want... to marry me?" she asked quietly.

  Rosan nodded without hesitation. "Not immediately but when the two of us finish our journey... when you find the answers to the void century, when I become the strongest... we can find that place to settle down," Rosan smiled gently.

  Robin said nothing for a while, before tentatively accepting the ring.

  "Now I'll have to find you a ring in return," she said eventually, a genuine and watery smile on her face.

  Rosan laughed, only to let out a gasp as he was tackled to the floor and hugged tightly.

  "Quite the possessive technique by you to ensure I never look at someone else," Robin teased.

  "One ring wasn't enough. Now you can show off two!" Rosan cackled.

  The two snuggled happily before abruptly vanishing and Mod smiled to herself, touching her heart as tears began forming in her eyes.

  "They're getting married?" she whispered.

  She squealed in joy and squeezed Raisa, lifting the surprised queen up and spinning her in a hug.

  Raisa yelped at that, eyes glowing in shock as Mod squeezed her.

  "Can you believe it?! I'm so happy for them!" Mod squealed, eyes glowing in joy.

  Raisa blushed and nodded in agreement. "I do hope this means we will get our grandchildren sooner rather than later."

  Mod blushed in mortification. "Raisa!"

  Raisa and Mod both held their heads, as Rosan and Robin stared the two down with their arms crossed.

  "Did you seriously think I didn't notice you guys back at the museum or the restaurant?" Rosan mused with a raised brow.

  "I-I don't know what you're talking about," Mod said, averting her gaze.

  "Sorry," Raisa said at the same time.

  ...

  The two stared at each other with wide eyes.

  "Claim ignorance until given proof!" Mod hissed to her.

  "He can detect lies just like me! What's the point?!" Raisa hissed back.

  "Idiots," Rosan sighed, pinching his nose.

  Robin giggled. "Did you two have fun spying on us?"

  Mod opened her mouth, only to shut it as Rosan's eyes promised he was going to make her sensitive for a tickle session.

  "I don't know what you mean! Raisa and I were on a date and we just happened to run into all the same spots!" Mod exclaimed with wide eyes.

  Raisa's eyes widened and her face darkened.

  "Really now?" Rosan asked.

  "You two get along enough to date?" Robin joined, smiling slightly.

  "..." Mod twitched. There was just something very embarrassing about being caught so easily. She had her pride to defend!

  The woman squeaked as a tail snaked around her and dragged her towards the unimpressed Rosan.

  "Last chance, Mod-chan," he warned.

  "Okay! Okay!" Mod whined. "I was just worried! You two's first dates? How could I not be concerned!"

  "Do you have that little faith in me?" Rosan scoffed, crossing his arms and glaring at her.

  "N-No? I just..." Mod trailed off.

  "Mod's not used to not knowing what you're doing. Spare her a bit. She's slowly getting better at being separated from you," Raisa said diplomatically.

  Rosan's eyes narrowed and he turned towards Raisa with a thoughtful expression.

  Then he dropped Mod-chan and nodded.

  "You're right. She's getting much better but I should expect a little bit of withdrawal. Silly me," he agreed, saving her from being tickled.

  Mod sighed in relief and shot Raisa a grateful look.

  "We'll tell everyone but as you guys saw, I basically proposed to Robin," Rosan grinned eagerly.

  Robin smiled at his excitement and leaned against him. "It was so surprising! I thought he was going to break up with me at first."

  Rosan scratched the back of his head. "Didn't I already tell you? You're stuck with me. Now it's going to be until death do us part."

  "Psycho," she smiled.

  "I'm so excited!" Mod gushed.

  "Try not to spill," Rosan interjected.

  Robin nodded. "Rosan and I think it's best if we achieve our goals before we do anything. So telling them before we even meet up with the crew would be reckless."

  "Yeah, we'll tell everyone after the two years are up..."

  "We'll have to explain why I'm wearing two rings."

  "During our date I saw that you liked one and bought it for you. Greedy little Robin didn't want to get rid of either so she took both."

  "I'm going to kill you."

  Mod and Raisa stared at the two with small smiles.

  "Thank you for saving my bottom," Mod whispered.

  "Of course. We both made the decision to spy anyways," Raisa murmured back.

  The queen of Wisteria was about to say something else, up until she saw the fact that Rosan and Robin were actually fighting.

  "Should we stop them?" Raisa asked in concern, watching the two roll across the ground.

  "No. Let them tire themselves out. Actually, it's safer for us to evacuate the area... their fights never last long."

  "What do you— O-Oh. Okay let's leave."

  When was the last time he had felt cold?

  He did not know. Cold was a foreign concept to him...

  "Thank you for being my family. I'm so proud of you all."

  But Ace was so cold.

  "Mom sacrificed her life for you because she loved you."

  Mom sacrificed her life for him... Rosan sacrificed his life for him...

  Ace was so cold.

  He blearily opened his eyes, no sound leaving him.

  The whitebeard pirate, stared at the ceiling with a blank expression on his face.

  Why... why was he alive? Why was Ace still breathing?

  What was the point? He had killed Rosan. His older brother had gone through hell in order to save him and it was Ace who got him killed.

  They won. They did it. Ace watched Rosan fight person after person... he watched his brother take worse and worse injuries.

  And then when they were free, Ace's hubris got him killed.

  How many times did people have to pay for his faults? Why was it always his fault?!

  Ace let out a scream of agony, as he shot up. He howled and began destroying everything around him. He smashed a table in two, threw a vase against the wall and flipped the bed he was on, upheaving the entire thing completely.

  He panted in rage, but rage wouldn't bring his brother back. Rage wouldn't change how much of an idiot he was.

  "You need to know when to step down from a battle. Some things are more important then winning a fight."

  That was what Rosan had said. All those years ago. To think that after all this time, those words would haunt him so...

  "I don't resent you. I didn't want you to get in my way and you did just that. Because of you, I had to back down from a fight. I never back down from a fight," a younger Ace had snarked violently.

  "Thinking like that is going to get you killed, you little idiot," a just as young Rosan said.

  Ace let out another howl of agony, flames erupting as he threatened to burn down the entire room he was in.

  Idiot. Idiot. Idiot. Idiot. He was an idiot. Ace was such a fucking idiot.

  Why didn't he back down? Why? Why did he let himself get so riled up over something so childish.

  "Some things are more important than finishing a fight. Keeping the ones you love safe, should always be a higher priority."

  Right... that was the difference between Rosan and Ace.

  Rosan, cold and callous Rosan. The same Rosan who would slaughter an entire island without blinking an eye... The same Rosan who had no emotions for more than a decade... and he was more emotionally intelligent than Ace.

  Rosan knew all along. He knew what was going to happen. Rosan knew all along that Ace's stubborn and reckless nature was going to get him killed so like a true older brother, he interfered and fixed Ace's mistake.

  Why... why did he do that? Why didn't he just let Ace die like the fool he was.

  Ace's anger vanished and he collapsed to his knees, tears falling in defeat. He slammed his head repeatedly onto the ground, tears falling into the small crater and vanishing as the flames burned them.

  Rosan said all these terrible things about himself, but Rosan was the family's glue. Emotionless Rosan did everything in his power to make sure his family was happy and satisfied.

  And worthless Ace did everything in his power to destroy everything they worked towards.

  Ace's death wouldn't change anything in comparison to Rosan's. What would Maro do? Angel? Demon?

  ...Kami, what about Robin and Luffy?

  Ace shut his eyes and let out a strangled sob.

  "Ace? You're awake?"

  ...

  Ace let out an raspy intake at that, freezing as he was abruptly dragged into a hug.

  "You're awake," Rosan breathed in relief, squeezing his little brother with a soft expression. "Kami, even I was beginning to doubt."

  The logia said nothing, eyes wide as he shakily touched his older brother.

  "Rosan...?" Ace whispered in disbelief, tears surging.

  "It's me. I'm alive," Rosan murmured, squeezing him gently.

  Ace shuddered and burst into tears, a sob leaving him as he squeezed as tightly as possible.

  "I'm sorry for being so stupid, Rosan! I'm sorry! I can't believe you're still here!" he sobbed, voice cracking as he latched onto his older brother with no reservations like he normally had.

  Rosan sighed. "I won't say what you did was smart. I know you. You don't wanna hear any of that... but I'm so glad you're alive, Ace."

  Ace's throat locked at the earnesty in his brothers voice and he wailed, letting everything loose.

  Rosan was glad he was the only one here. In this moment, Ace didn't need his gentle family, who would all wonder in the back of their minds why he did such a thing... in that moment, he didn't need to see his little brothers in Sabo and Luffy, who he was supposed to be strong around...

  Right now Ace needed his older brother, the one who he confided in when he had his moments of weakness.

  So Rosan hugged his little brother tightly, letting him be vulnerable in his moment of need.

  Ace bowed his head, not saying anything as Rosan wiped his face clean.

  He'd normally be embarrassed, claiming he could do it on his own... but right now he welcomed his brother's presence.

  "So you... were saved by that virus?" he asked warily.

  Rosan nodded. "Pestilence saved me right when I was about to die. If not for them, I'd be a goner."

  Ace withered at that, guilt wracking his features. "Rosan... I'm sorry. Even after you warned me, I still refused to back down from a fight and you took the fall for me."

  All he could remember, was Rosan smiling in relief, a gaping hole in his midsection as he took an attack meant for Ace.

  He tried to shut his eyes but that did nothing to banish the memories.

  Rosan stared at him with a soft expression. "For idiots like us, Ace... it takes a real shocker to show us how dumb we are. You didn't deserve to die without realizing that and now you do."

  Ace said nothing at that.

  "What happened to pops?" he asked quietly.

  Rosan's silence was loud.

  "Whitebeard... died at Marineford. He was killed in a combined effort of Blackbeard and Cutter. Blackbeard... stole his Devil Fruit and consumed it."

  "..." Ace clenched his fists tightly at that.

  "What about the rest of the crew...? Is Marco the captain now?" he asked warily.

  Rosan stared at him with a small frown. "Marco did become the captain... but they waged a war against the Blackbeard Pirates and were annihilated. I don't know who survived or died... but the Whitebeard Pirates are no more. Teach took his place as an Emperor and Cutter is his right hand... wielding just as much power."

  Ace's body went cold at that.

  All of this... this huge spiral of events. All of it... began because of him? No more Whitebeard Pirates? The complete ascension of Teach as an Emperor?

  "All of it is my fault," Ace whispered.

  "..." Rosan said nothing.

  "If I just listened to pops! He told me not to go after Teach! I couldn't even beat him and now..." Ace grit his teeth, gripping his hair in a tight hold.

  "Ace..." Rosan said warily, glancing at his spiraling brother with a concerned gaze. "You made a mistake."

  "A mistake?! You call all of this a mistake, Rosan?!" Ace shouted, eyes hysterical. "I single-handedly, ushered in a new era after getting my older brother killed! All those people who died in the war... all my friends... you. You all died because I can't listen!"

  "Teach has two Devil Fruits... he's recruited your dad who shouldn't even be free... my crew's been destroyed," Ace whispered, the reality of the situation crashing into him fully.

  "Your father changed the world with his death! When you become a man that important, then you can do whatever you want!"

  Ace had downplayed his importance. He didn't realize his value in the world. Because of that, he recklessly charged ahead, not thinking about the consequences if things went bad.

  He didn't think Whitebeard would mobilize his entire army for him. He didn't realize his capture would allow Teach to get so much power so quickly. He didn't realize his brothers would go to hell and back to keep him safe.

  He didn't realize they'd be so willing to die for him.

  "Rosan..." Ace said softly.

  "..." Rosan said nothing for a while.

  Then, the redhead sighed. "Ace... whatever you're thinking, you don't have to do this," he said quietly.

  Ace shut his eyes. "I need to go."

  "Go? Go where, Ace. It's been 6 months! You just woke up!" Rosan protested, surging up and glaring at his brother.

  "I don't know where I'm going but... but I have to figure out things," Ace said eventually.

  Rosan shook his head harshly. "What about our family, Ace?"

  "I DON'T DESERVE TO SEE THEM!" Ace shouted in return, eyes wild. "ROSAN, I KILLED YOU!"

  Rosan went silent at that, eyes going wide.

  "I killed you! Everyone saw it! I don't deserve you guys! I know I'm to blame for everything. If you actually died... they'd hate me! I already hate myself!"

  The redhead said nothing, heart crushing as tears fell from Ace's eyes.

  "I can't... don't make me look them in the eyes," he pleaded quietly.

  Rosan was completely silent, gazing at his brother with an unreadable expression.

  "Okay," he conceded quietly. "Alright, Ace. I'll give you supplies and a ship. Go out there and find whatever answer you're looking for."

  Ace ducked his head. "Thank you, Rosan... I don't deserve you."

  "You do. You do deserve me, Ace... so if you die, I'll never forgive you."

  Ace shook at that, before a hand gripped him and forced him to look up.

  There was a raw desperation in Rosan's gaze, a tangible fear as the redhead dropped every barrier in his body.

  "If you die Ace... if you leave me after I took a fucking hole in my chest for you, I'll never forgive you. So you need to live, Ace. I died for you, so your life is tied to me now. You aren't allowed to die until I say so, understood?"

  Ace's throat locked up once more at that, seeing the way Rosan laid himself bare.

  "Alright. I won't die... not until you say so," Ace said finally.

  Rosan sagged and nodded. "Alright, let's go."

  "Are you sure you don't want to see them?"

  Ace shut his eyes at the question.

  He wanted nothing more than to see his family. He loved them... and they were all he had left right now.

  But Ace could not face them right now. Ace could not bare to look them all in the eyes.

  He was a coward...

  Rosan sighed and pulled his brother into a tight hug. "Alright. But... just remember that in this lonely world, you'll always have us."

  Ace nodded tightly at that, tentatively returning the hug. He then turned towards the boat and stepped onto it, glancing back at his brother once.

  Rosan smiled reassuringly. "Next time I see you, you better have found those answers, Ace. Don't think you can avoid me forever... I'll hunt you down and force you back into our family."

  "...Right. Bye Rosan," Ace said quietly, igniting the ship in fire and shooting off.

  Almost as soon as he vanished, Rosan's smile did too and the redhead teleported back to his castle to sit alone.

  He had just given Ace everything he needed and his brother had requested to be left of near the New World... so that's what Rosan did.

  Now Ace was gone. Where? Rosan didn't know...

  ...

  Rosan grit his teeth and his eyes filled to the brim with rage.

  The redhead let out a roar of frustration and smashed a fist clean through the table. He howled as he began indiscriminately destroying everything around him.

  "Why?! Why can't it ever just be right?!" he hissed, completely trashing the room he was in.

  Nothing he did was ever good enough. Even after saving everyone, people still suffered.

  It was impossible! Why was it so impossible?!

  What was he supposed to tell his family? Ace woke up and decided he was suicidal so now he didn't want to see any of them? How was he supposed to explain that to them?!

  "GODDAMNIT!" Rosan roared, eyes pulsing madly.

  No matter what he did, someone was bound to suffer. It just wasn't fair. Why couldn't things just be simple for Rosan just once?

  "Oh that's it. Could you quit your self wallowing. You're making me sick."

  Rosan paused at that.

  "Pe-chan?" Rosan called out.

  "Don't call me that," Pestilence bit out. The virus was scowling, only to jump as Rosan appeared directly in front of them.

  "I didn't tell you to visit me— A-Ah!" Pestilence yelped as they were dragged into an abrupt and tight hug.

  The virus struggled, doing everything in their power to not melt in his grasp.

  "Sorry," Rosan murmured, eventually releasing them. "I just needed to hug someone."

  "Make sure it's not me again," Pestilence retorted coldly, crossing their arms. The viruses unnerving red gaze peered a hole into him and sighed.

  "Why do you torture yourself like this? Latching onto a suicidal boy who doesn't think? You've never been the smartest with who you attach yourself too but this is self destructive."

  Rosan scowled and looked away.

  Pestilence rolled their eyes. "Are you forgetting the circumstances that led to you almost perishing and losing Mod?"

  "Be quiet Pe-chan," he said quietly.

  The virus scoffed. "If not for your stupid little brother, you wouldn't have nearly lost your life, you're family wouldn't have potentially been permanently depressed and I'd still have Famine."

  Rosan flinched back at that, expression turning hurt.

  "First everyone refused to acknowledge me as Rosan, now you refuse to acknowledge me as Famine. That hurts, Pe-chan."

  The redhead shook his head. "It was stupid of me to come here," he said bitterly.

  He was already in a bad mood. Coming here was such a stupid idea.

  Pestilence stared at the dejected redhead with a torn expression, before their face hardened.

  "Yeah, it was," they said coldly. "Go to your little fiance and complain to her about it. I don't give a fuck."

  Rosan's face went crestfallen at that.

  Then, it morphed into steel, no emotions on his face at all.

  "Right. Have a good day Pestilence. I'll leave you alone like you want," he said blandly, disappearing as soon as he came.

  "..."

  Pestilence let out a howl of rage and smashed everything around them, eyes blistering in fury.

  "Rosan?" Sabo mused, watching his brother appear in the middle of their training session.

  It had been a while since they last saw him and Sabo was surprised he was managing to keep himself away from Robin for so long.

  "Hey Rosan!" Koala waved, only to frown in concern as Rosan ignored her.

  That was odd. She had been preparing to fight him already. Her spars were almost always the best when it was against Rosan because she genuinely wanted to punch him in the face.

  Sabo would have thought the redhead just couldn't handle being away from her anymore but the glum look on his face banished that idea immediately.

  "Rosan, are you alright?" Robin asked. She grabbed a towel and wiped herself down, moving herself over to him in the same movement.

  "..." Rosan said nothing, simply exhaling tiredly and collapsing against her.

  "Why can't I ever do anything right?" he asked bitterly, slumping against the concerned Robin.

  Robin raised a visible brow in concern. It had been a while since she heard Rosan say something so negatively about himself.

  "What happened? What's causing you to say such things about yourself," Robin asked in concern.

  "...Ace woke up," he said softly.

  Sabo's eyes widened and he jolted violently. "He what?! Ace is awake?!" he shouted eagerly.

  Robin noted Rosan's demeanor and frowned in worry.

  While she was less than pleased at Ace's actions, she still loved the boy. If something happened to him, she'd be incredibly upset.

  "What happened?" Robin asked gently, cupping his cheeks.

  Rosan sighed. "He blamed himself naturally... and nothing I said got through to him."

  Sabo stilled at that. Rosan's words had a lot of power to win them over. For it to not work on Ace was... less than ideal.

  That meant something happened.

  "He left. He was too ashamed and afraid to see you guys so he left... and I let him," Rosan sighed in depression.

  "He left? Where did he go?" Robin asked, concern in her body.

  She hugged the distraught redhead and ran a hand through his hair.

  "The New World I imagine considering that's where he asked me to drop him off," Rosan mumbled.

  Sabo's brows furrowed and he sighed. "Rosan, don't blame yourself for this," he said abruptly.

  The redhead jolted, gazing at Sabo in surprise.

  "You don't blame me?" he asked quietly.

  The logia shook his head harshly. "Of course not! Come on, Rosan. We both know how Ace is. Once he's made up his mind, only you and Luffy can outstubborn him. It's hard dealing with my brothers," Sabo laughed.

  Rosan shook and bowed his head.

  "Rosan... Ace made his decision and we cannot fault you for that," Robin murmured gently. "All we can do is wait for him to come back. We know he'll come back. He's family after all."

  Sabo grinned and nodded. "Yeah and I'm stronger than him now. If he doesn't come back, I'll force him back. We have to make sure our oldest brother is doing fine too and you deserve a little protection," he assured.

  Rosan shuddered and nodded. "It's... good to be looked over by you guys every once in a while."

  "Of course. We'll always be here for you," Robin smiled, kissing him on the cheek.

  The redhead huffed, expression lightening. "I'm sorry for interrupting. I thought I'd at least tell you guys what happened... and I was feeling bad."

  "If you ever feel bad, please don't hesitate to come. It's our job to take care of each other," Robin assured.

  Sabo chuckled. "Yeah Rosan. You've done everything by yourself for decades... I won't let you do it all alone anymore."

  Rosan's heart swelled at their words and he sighed in relief.

  "Alright alright. My little brother wants to act so grown... so I'll entertain him," he conceded.

  Koala laughed. "Sabo? Grown? Yeah right! For someone who thinks at the speed of lightning, he sure does stupid things all the time!"

  Sabo turned towards her incredulously. "Stupid? Are you serious, Koala?"

  "Yes I'm serious! You're as big of an idiot as your brothers!"

  Rosan and Robin watched the younger couple argue, both donning impish smiles.

  "Ah, young love," Rosan sighed wistfully.

  "You speak as if we're much older than them," Robin smiled in amusement.

  The redhead chuckled. "Feels like it sometime. I feel like I've lived a lifetime sometimes."

  Robin sighed in agreement. "You and me both."

  They enjoyed each other's peace, finding it far more entertaining to watch a couple argue.

  "At least they don't fight each other," Robin noted.

  "My love language is physical touch," Rosan countered.

  Robin sighed in exhaustion. "Don't I know it. Now, get out of here while I break up this argument. Our training isn't done just yet."

  "Good luck," Rosan saluted and kissed her exposed forehead, vanishing in the same movement.

  Robin touched her forehead. "He sure loves this spot, I can't tell if it's genuine or teasing..."

  Best to not dwell on it. Better for her mental health.

  Hancock perked up as a warm presence flew through her open window. A grin split her face and the Empress let out an excited shout, leaping across the room and tackling Rosan to the floor.

  "Cousin!" she squealed loudly, nuzzling him happily.

  Rosan grinned fondly, expression idly turning towards a direction with a pondering expression.

  "Hey, Hancock. Miss me?" he mused.

  She nodded eagerly, smiling up at him with starry eyes.

  Part of Rosan wished he and Hancock knew each other when they were younger. He and his cousin would have terrorized the seas and their families!

  "Wanna come to Wisteria with me? I'm training with Raisa and Aunt Shakky. Maro, Angel and Demon are there too."

  Hancock actually looked upset with him. "You've just now come to retrieve me?! How dare you do this to me, cousin!"

  Rosan chuckled to himself and pat her head, watching how effortlessly she melted. "I know I know. I thought you were still training with Luffy."

  Hancock puffed her cheeks out, a glare on her face. "Rayleigh forbid me. He claimed I was going too easy on him. I nearly killed him in his sleep."

  Rosan sweatdropped at that. "Right... okay, you can come with. Get Sonia and Mari too. I need to whip my weaker little cousins into shape."

  The Snake Empress nodded eagerly, shooting up and rocketing off.

  He watched her go and sat atop her bed, leaning back and closing his eyes...

  Rosan's eyes snapped open and he leaned upwards, turning to face an old lady.

  "Elder Nyon?" he asked cautiously, noting the way she gazed at him.

  There was a grave look on her face and the elder almost looked... wary of him.

  Finally, the granny sighed.

  "The Morning Star... Rocks D. Rosan. I almost can't believe I missed it."

  Rosan tensed up.

  What?

  "What do you mean?" he asked curiously.

  "I was apart of that crew you know," Nyon said suddenly.

  Rosan froze. "Apart of that crew? You mean the Rocks Pirates?!" he nearly shouted in disbelief.

  "Your old ass?!"

  Nyon felt a tick form at that and bat her snake staff against his head. "HAVE SOME RESPECT!"

  The woman huffed and shook her head. "To think you were the child of that small child Cutter. You act nothing like him... but you are as wild and unpredictable as Xebec."

  Rosan raised a brow high. She really did know about that crew.

  "The Rocks Pirates are a crew better left in the past. Brutes all aligning for a common goal... it was a disaster of a crew. No synergy, no functionality. Just big names all sailing under the flag of a psycho."

  Rosan looked mildly interested at that. "So it really was a crew of big names. Three of the members of that crew became Yonko."

  "That's correct. Edward Newgate... Charlotte Linlin, Kaido of the Beasts, Shiki... and we all sailed under the banner of Rocks D. Xebec," Nyon frowned, gazing at Rosan.

  "Many people will be interested in you, Rosan. You wield a valuable Devil Fruit, you've revived from death and you have the blood of a very dangerous man running through your veins. Linlin especially, is someone you should be wary of," Nyon said.

  Rosan hummed. "Big Mom? Alright. I'll be on the lookout then."

  Nyon nodded. "I will be willing to tell you more... but not today. Perhaps at a later time, when you learn more about the world."

  "Sure," Rosan agreed, turning slightly and allowing himself to get tackled back onto the bed by his three cousins.

  "I'll take you up on that offer, Elder."

  "Don't bother speaking to that hag, Cousin!" Hancock shouted, glaring at Nyon.

  Nyon gained an annoyed look. "You cannot leave your island unattended too for long, Hancock! You're still an Empress with duties."

  Hancock blew a raspberry at her, urging Rosan to vanish away.

  Rosan rolled his eyes and waved. "Bye, Elder Nyon."

  "...You may call me Elder Gloriosa, Rosan," she said curtly.

  "Gloriosa," Rosan tested it. "Alright. I'll consider calling you that, granny."

  He vanished before the staff could crash onto his head.

  "Annoying brat," she grumbled.

  Rosan let out a soft breath, breeze brushing against him as he hummed, floating in midair as the winds brushed against him.

  He waved his hands about, almost like he were directing a symphony and at once, the wind around him picked up in speed and intensity, blowing so strongly that it drowned out the redhead's humming.

  Finally the wind died down and Rosan landed softly on the floor, clothes falling back into place.

  He didn't even open his eyes... but he did open his arm to catch the speeding missiles crashing against him.

  "You two know I'm not going to disappear forever right? I'll come visit you two when you miss me."

  "We miss you," Oren mumbled, squeezing his nephew tight.

  "We miss you lots," Dalia whimpered, glancing up at him with tears in her eyes.

  Rosan laughed and ran a hand against their black and red hair respectively.

  "C'mon don't be so annoying. Aunt Dalia don't you have a date next week with Aiko? I'm bringing you, you know. Same as you Uncle Oren. I saw you talking to that doctor at Demon's hospital."

  The two balked at his words. Their nephew was a tease on the best of days but damnit, he was so embarrassing.

  "We're seriously gonna miss you, Rosan!" Dalia cried, squeezing him tightly.

  "Thank you so much. Without you... I don't know if we'd ever feel like a family again," Oren mumbled, tearing up at their precious little nephew.

  Rosan's gaze softened. He loved his aunt and uncle. They had been nothing but kind to him these two years and he could proudly claim them as his family.

  "I love you guys. If you ever wanna talk, just give me a call. I even went out of my way to make you both your own cubes to call me separately... but I'm putting a limit on you Aunt Dalia."

  Oren burst into laughter at the spluttering noise Dalia let out.

  "W-What?! I won't call you that much!" she complained.

  "You'd call me to talk about the breakfast you had," Rosan said flatly, pinching her cheeks and getting a whine out of her. "Call Aiko to talk about random bullshit. She'll gladly hear your random thoughts."

  She wouldn't but she'd have to deal with it.

  Dalia nodded eagerly. "Alright, I'll do that!"

  Ram appeared with a eager shout, tackling Dalia and getting his aunt to burst into tears.

  "Raaaam!" she wailed, hugging the growing little girl.

  "Aunt Daliaaa!" Ram cheered, squishing her cheeks eagerly. "Don't worry. We still have tea time soon! I'll remind Father!"

  "You better!" Dalia cheered, squishing their cheeks together.

  Rosan would never explain how Dalia and Ram got along so well... but Dalia spoiled Ram endlessly. It was ridiculous truly but Rosan was glad they got along so well.

  Mod smiled and exchanged hugs with the two. "It was truly wonderful meeting you two. I'm glad you're apart of our family."

  Dalia burst into tears again at that. "We love you Mod-chan!" she blubbered, nuzzling the purple haired woman eagerly.

  Oren chuckled and dragged his little sister away. "We're done holding you up. Visit us when you can but you've still got one more visit."

  Rosan nodded affectionately, allowing them to kiss his cheek, and stepped back.

  "Alright you two. I'll visit soon... but it's been long enough and it's about time I go back to being a pirate," he informed them, grinning ferally.

  They saw the feral grin of their nephew, the way his sharp teeth gleamed and felt themselves choke up.

  The pride of the Iris... that's what Rosan was.

  "Be safe nephew!" Oren waved.

  "Tell Robin I said we miss her! Don't forget we have to do that family dinner in two weeks!"

  Rosan rolled his eyes and waved. "Yeah yeah yeah. More demanding members of my family."

  Ridiculous.

  "Do you have everything? Clothes? Underwear? Money?" Raisa asked worriedly, planting a flurry of affectionate kisses on both his cheeks.

  Rosan hummed, eyes glowing in his relaxed amusement as he allowed her to pepper him.

  "Yes, I have it all," he murmured, pulling the woman into a tight hug.

  "Stop being such a worrywart. I'll be fine."

  Raisa bit her lip at his relaxed confidence and sunk into his hold. "I know. I know… but I can't help but worry for you. You know how I get," she sighed, nuzzling him.

  Rosan rolled his eyes. "Did you do a bad job teaching me?" he asked knowingly.

  Raisa scowled. "Of course not! You are my prized student, Rosan. You've taken all my teachings and excelled in them! You've blown my expectations out of the water!"

  "Then you have nothing to be worried about… Besides, you have a Save Point now so I'll visit you when I can. Not to mention, you can call me when you miss me... but I'm putting a limit on you," he assured.

  Her eyes glowed in happiness at that and she leaned into his hold.

  "How much is the limit?" she asked.

  "3 times. Once in the morning, once during the day, once during the night. If I don't answer, I'm busy. You can call Demon or Angel too. I'll even introduce you to my crew soon."

  Raisa nodded begrudgingly, finding some reason in his words.

  The woman lit up once more and stared at Rosan with an innocent gaze.

  "May you transform into Mod-chan please?" she asked demurely.

  Rosan's eyes narrowed suspiciously but he did so with a wave of a hand and seamlessly transformed into the woman.

  Mod hummed, raking a hand through her purple and black hair, expertly tying it into a ponytail in a smooth motion. She peered at Raisa and the two exchanged a tight hug.

  "Yes, Raisa?" Mod asked curiously, fondness, that she never thought she'd feel for the woman, swelling.

  Raisa smiled softly and leaned in, before planting a slow kiss directly on the woman's cheek.

  "Please continue caring for Rosan. You've done a splendid job with him… and I hope one day I can be as good of a mother as you," Raisa whispered in her ear.

  Mod's brain short circuited at that, before her face turned an interesting shade of red.

  "O-Oh... thank you but over the years, you've proven that you're a fantastic mother too!" Mod stammered, eyes wide as she looked at Raisa's lips.

  There was something distinctly… inappropriate about that kiss and as Mod stared at Raisa's smoky expression, she noticed that the woman's eyes were set into the slits of her zoan.

  "Oh dear… did Raisa just stake her claim on me?" Mod thought in disbelief.

  "If I'm fantastic... then you're perfect," Raisa purred, eyes glowing.

  "Oh dear! She did!"

  "U-Um…" Mod stuttered, before sighing in relief as Rosan took over.

  "What do you think you're doing?" Rosan asked with a raised brow, taking note of the chaste kiss.

  Raisa smiled, lips curling upwards as she fluttered her eyes innocently at her son. "It's only right that both your mothers get along, don't you think? Far better than hating each other."

  "Get along?" Rosan sneered, eyes narrowed. "Don't go kissing Mod-chan so freely. She's mine. She isn't allowed to date anyone."

  "A-ANYONE?!" Mod spluttered and scowled, before forming right next to Rosan this time.

  The two glared at each other and Mod eventually said, "Raisa, I would be delighted to talk over dinner with you! We can cook and discuss whatever!"

  Before Raisa could respond, Rosan reached out and gripped Mod's cheek with his hands, yanking it and getting the woman to yell in distress.

  "R-Rosan! Unhand me you brute!" Mod yelped, glaring at the redhead with a furious expression.

  "Don't test me," Rosan warned her, before reaching out with a hand and gripping Raisa's cheek as well. "You too. Don't try it."

  Raisa whined and yelped. "You can't hog her, Rosan! Mod is a free woman and I want to know hermore!"

  Rosan huffed. "Ask me again in 19 years and I'll consider it."

  "You're a freak of nature!" Mod barked, struggling in his grasp and showing her fangs warningly.

  The redhead sneered, before a chuckle eventually erupted from his mouth.

  He pulled the two in a hug and squeezed them gently.

  "I know... doesn't change what I said though," he soothed.

  Raisa grumbled, before her expression finally cracked and she broke out into a cry.

  "Thank you so much, Rosan! You've made me appreciate my life so much more and I'm so glad we met. You're the best thing to have ever happened to me!"

  These two years... they had been the best two years Raisa had ever had. Her family grew so much and she loved them with everything in her heart.

  Her little triplets, Angel, Demon and Rosan. The three siblings who were her lovely kids with lovely professions...

  And they all loved her too! They acknowledged her as their mother and she was even going to meet the residents of Celadon without Rosan there to mediate!

  It wasn't just Rosan who accepted her... everyone did and Raisa loved them so so much.

  Rosan's eyes softened and he squeezed his birth mother. The same woman who had only known suffering.

  Now that he knew her so well... Rosan was truly glad he could give her the peace she so desperately needed.

  "Thanks for all your help, mom. I love you," he replied softly, squeezing her tight.

  Raisa froze at that, expression scrunching up as she began sniffing repeatedly.

  It was the first time Rosan called her mom. He would never do such a thing... unless he truly meant it.

  That meant... did that mean Raisa had earned the privilege of being his mother?

  "Yes you have," Mod said softly, smiling as she let the two have their moment.

  Tears welled Raisa's eyes and the woman broke completely, wailing onto his chest with no reservations.

  "Thank you! Thank you so much!" she sobbed.

  "Of course... but I like calling you Raisa so I might still do that. Flows off the tongue better," Rosan said thoughtfully.

  She sniffed and nodded. "Call me mom once a day."

  "Sure."

  Perfect. Raisa could live with that.

  "You need to visit as often as possible," she demanded.

  "Yes, your majesty," he murmured, patting her hair.

  Mod smiled and went back into Rosan, before the redhead stepped back.

  He kissed Raisa on the head and waved, then vanished.

  Raisa watched him go with a smile and sighed fondly.

  Iris D. Rosan... her prized student and the pride of the Iris clan...

  "I miss him," she said bluntly.

  She should go visit Celadon and drop Dalia off at Fregate in the meantime... Oren would probably like to go with her to Celadon as well.

  "Dalia, Oren. I'm planning on flying to the North Blue. Would you like to come?" she said aloud, typing into the cube with a look of concentration.

  Rosan had laughed and called her old when she struggled to operate such a thing but they were so hard! Raisa was a dragon! She may have had the intelligence, but she was not a technologically driven woman!

  ...

  She really missed him already. He tended to operate it for her...

  Raisa sighed and smiled to herself.

  Nothing to do but be productive.

  Rosan sat cross legged in front of the grave, bowing his head slightly as he placed a black rose onto it.

  "Hey mom," Rosan said softly, smiling at the grave with a fond expression.

  "It's nice to see you again. Things have been amazing on my end... It's been a bumpy ride but at least now, I seem to be doing better."

  The wind brushed gently against him and the redhead smiled.

  "Thank you... for taking the time to speak to me back then," Rosan said suddenly. "I don't know if that was actually you or a figment of my imagination that I needed to vent too... but you helped me. My mothers truly know best."

  Mod smiled gently at that, enveloping him in his aura.

  "Please continue to watch over me. You saw me at my worst... now you can see me get better," he said quietly, bowing his head.

  He remained there in front of her grave and remained completely silent, ignoring everything around him...

  "R-Rosan?" a voice asked, distress in their voice.

  ...Up until that.

  The redhead turned back, curious expression on his face.

  The woman flinched back as he stood to his full height, terror on her face and tears streaming down her eyes as the redhead peered down at her.

  Then, Rosan smiled.

  "Shizuka," Rosan greeted calmly, charming smile on his face as he regarded the woman. "Is that your kid with you?"

  The short woman was holding a crying baby and Rosan noted that there was soot on the both of them.

  Ah, they must have encountered those pirates currently invading the island currently.

  Huh? Oh yeah, sometime during his moment with Rouge, Baterilla had gotten invaded... but he didn't pay attention to it because well, Rosan was having a moment with his deceased mother.

  "Please… please help us," Shizuka requested, tears forming in her eyes as she ignored his question.

  Rosan raised a brow. "Hm? Help?" he asked, staring her down.

  The baby continued to wail in her mother's grasp.

  Shizuka trembled, a sob leaving her as she nearly collapsed. "P-Pirates… they're here and they killed my husband. Please. I know you're a terrible person… I know you're a demon, but please—"

  Rosan cut her off by placing a single finger against the baby, making it erupt in delighted laughter.

  The redhead's eyes glowed at that and Shizuka watched in shock, as her baby immediately stopped crying.

  "My condolences about your husband…" he murmured, watching as footsteps approached behind the girl.

  A gang of about 5 pirates showed up, all with matching grins on their faces.

  "We found that girl!"

  "Great, get her! She's a real beauty!"

  Shizuka sucked in a breath of terror, clutching Rosan tightly and hiding behind him.

  "Hiding behind another man, huh?" a pirate leered.

  "We'll just killed him too!"

  Rosan hummed slightly, running a hand through his hair. "I'm no hero, Shizuka. I have no obligation to help you," he said bluntly.

  Shizuka felt her heart crash at that, tears falling as a heartbroken sob left her.

  "But... you were my friend once upon a time," he said softly, placing a hand atop her head reassuringly. "Besides, rapists are disgusting. I'd probably have done them in regardless."

  She gazed at the reassuring grin on the redhead's face and watched as he pat her little baby once more, before breaking out into a relieved sob.

  ''Thank you... thank you so much!" she wailed.

  Rosan huffed and shook his head. "If you want the most amount of protection, I'd recommend standing by that grave."

  Shizuka nodded in terror, shakily moving over to the grave he mentioned and watching as the redhead sighed to himself.

  "Hey," Rosan greeted. "This isn't a good place to fight me right now. This is my mom's grave you see… and I wouldn't want anything to happen to it. Wanna move to a different area?"

  The pirates looked at Rosan in confusion.

  "Who does this guy think he is?"

  "We don't give a fuck about your mom—"

  Rosan didn't move an inch, as the person who mentioned his mom, suddenly seized up.

  The random pirates eyes widened in confusion and he grasped his throat, as he suddenly lost the ability to breath.

  It was as... as if an invisible hand was gripping his throat. He tried to reach up but found that it was impossible to move.

  It was only then that the pirate realized he couldn't breathe because he was petrified and afraid.

  Rosan stared at him with a dangerously calm smile, hands shoved in his pockets as his black coat hung loosely on his shoulders, billowing with the wind.

  "Considering I have like 4 moms… you really should watch who you're saying that too," Rosan warned easily.

  "And I didn't say you could speak to me so freely. Kneel humans."

  That tiny pressure, amplified slightly, causing the small group of pirates to collapse.

  Rosan chuckled in amusement as they fell unconscious abruptly. "Two years and everyone forgets how scary you are."

  He turned towards the girl with a small smile.

  "Shizuka, I'll do Baterilla one last favor and clean up these hotshot pirates. Whatever happens next, you'll have to figure it out yourself."

  Rosan's eyes glowed and he removed a hand from his pocket, holding it above his head and having his palm face the sky. Like this, Shizuka could see the tattoo on his exposed arm.

  The redhead tilted his head as he assessed the state of the island.

  Shizuka watched in confusion as Rosan stood to his spot… Didn't he say... he was going to help? What was he doing...?

  She was about to question him, before the redhead nodded to himself.

  "Alright. I've separated the civilians and the pirates," he said boredly.

  "EMP: Smite."

  BOOM!

  Shizuka's mouth snapped shut, as dozens of lightning bolts suddenly conjured from the sky and smashed down on random spots of Baterilla. She shook in disbelief as screams began ringing out. Her terror at the redhead's actions only grew, as he broke out into an amused laugh.

  "Kahahaha! Picking out who was who was harder than that!" Rosan cackled, turning towards her and patting the giggling baby.

  Shizuka didn't know how her little girl could still be laughing at this. Wasn't Rosan supposed to be a demon now...? Why did her baby find him so entertaining?

  "There you go and before you ask, I didn't hit any citizens either," he assured, eyes glowing in mirth.

  Her eyes widened in confusion. "Y-You didn't? But how is that possible? Those lightning strikes were all over the island!"

  "The reason I took so long was because I was picking out who I needed to smite. Then, I had to gauge how much power needed to be used to not cause widespread mayhem from my lightning bolts. Enough to knock them unconscious, not kill and leave the island with just a few scorch marks."

  With that information... Shizuka found that Rosan saying "took too long" was wholly inappropriate. It only took him a minute at most... to figure all that information out?! Such delicate info didn't happen in the span of a minute. That took hours! That was something that needed you to carefully navigate the entire island... not stand in one spot for a minute.

  Who was... who was this monster?!

  A heavy wind blew over the island and she let out a shout of surprise.

  Before Shizuka knew it, pirate after pirate were dropped in front of them, all smoking and unconscious from the island wide attack that Rosan had just done.

  Rosan turned towards her, all while the ground surged and wrapped around the crew, trapping them together. "Those pirates are the Vagabond crew. They should have a collective bounty of about 70 million. Do what you want with them," he hummed, utterly uninterested in the affairs that just took place.

  "W-We called for help. The Marines should be on their way," Shizuka stammered.

  He tilted his head at that, curiosity on his features.

  "Bold enough to camp out here for 20 months but can't even set up a proper base. How ridiculous," Rosan snorted, running a hand through his hair.

  "By the way, your husband is still alive for now. He's bleeding out though so you should patch up his injuries."

  Shizuka's eyes widened in epic proportions. "He's... alive? But I saw him get cut down!"

  "It wasn't fatal. I imagine the pirates wanted you more. Most of the people are just very injured. A few dead," Rosan said coolly.

  The redhead scratched his head, ignoring the sob of relief that left her mouth.

  "I've been here long enough… oh and here. Take this."

  Shizuka jumped as he dropped a gun in her hand. It was sleek and silver, gleaming in the light with more danger than a gun normally had.

  "No one in the South Blue should be able to survive getting shot by that... unless your Raisa I guess." Rosan muttered the last part under his breath, grabbing it and aiming in a direction.

  Her jaw dropped as Rosan shot out a piercing beam of light from the gun. He aimed it idly at once of the unconscious pirates and fired again, searing a hole through his midsection.

  Shizuka shook in terror at the casual display. He dropped the weapon back in her hand and seemed to note her fear.

  "Don't worry, that one didn't have a bounty," he reassured.

  H-He was missing the point. This man was definitely as ignorant as Rosan was...

  Learning that this same terrifying man, was the little boy that she had a crush on, threw Shizuka for a loop. Rosan was a pirate, a literal Devil based on what the world said...

  But that little 4 year old who she had known was never a demon. He was never someone who exhibited the behavior to deserve a bounty that high.

  It was surreal. This was Rosan... but this was also not Rosan.

  But this "evil" version of Rosan saved her. He saved her from a terrible future.

  "W-Why? Why are you helping?" Shizuka asked quietly.

  "You handle rejection gracefully and your daughter is adorable. I'm glad you managed to finally get over your obsession with me. You're beautiful enough to be in a happy relationship with someone who actually appreciates you," Rosan smiled in amusement, wings sprouting from his back as he took flight.

  Shizuka watched the action with wide eyes, a warm feeling coursing through her at his words.

  "It was nice seeing you again Shizuka… thanks for being my friend when we were younger," Rosan waved, before taking off.

  "T-Thank you Rosan! I'll never forget this! I-I'm sorry for being afraid of you!" she shouted back.

  "Don't mention it. I won't think about this so you shouldn't either," was all he said.

  The redhead hummed as he took off, glancing down at the Marine ship approaching Baterilla with an amused smile.

  Idly, he sped the ship up with a burst of wind, getting shouts of confusion from them as they glanced up and saw nothing.

  Of course they couldn't see him. Rosan was high in the sky after all.

  "Two years... I can't believe it's been that long," he mused, wings flapping as he began soaring at tremendous speeds through the air.

  The redhead grinned eagerly.

  "I missed em all. Hopefully I don't have to go pick the lost people up. That would make things inconvenient."