Titled: Letters from A Revolutionary Guard to Dragon

Summary: "EEEEH?! You are a revolutionary?!" He screamed. Smiling sparkly at him, his guardian unleashed her frightening dark aura. "Were, Luffy-kun, were." She emphasized, sipping demurely on her tea. "For better or for worse, from the first moment Dragon-kun sent me to you, I knew I was going to be relieved of my revolutionary duties."

-x-

Luffy – Five Years Old

-x-

20th December

Dear Nao,

Hello.

Dragon

-x-

23rd December

Dear Dragon,

'Hello' as well, Dragon-kun.

The typical starting to a letter, Dragon-kun, would be to politely inquire about the wellbeing of the receiver and state your purpose for writing. It is also basic courtesy for one to write in a neat and legible set of handwriting, but given your educational background, I suppose your last letter is excusable.

Eh-hem! Pardon my rudeness, but if I may ask, why have you suddenly taken to such an endeavor? I recall with much fondness that you used to have Ivankov-chan to write your letters and mission reports for you. You two have always looked so endearing, with your huge frames towering over a tiny pen as you struggled to word the tiny letters out. Did something happen to her?

Happy Merry Christmas, Dragon-kun, and please reply soon.

Signing off,

Fujioka Nao

-x-

25th December

Dear Nao-chan,

Hi~! It's Ivankov here! It's been a long time since we last wrote to each other, haven't we?

Unfortunately, thanks to that big brute of a Dragon, I'm going down to Impel Down for several years in an undercover mission to recruit more members there. Ah, but that's a secret, so don't tell anyone, okay~?

I'm going to miss you so very much when I'm gone; Things are going to get so terribly lonely without you around. I would definitely be dreaming of the day we get reunited and we go back to shopping together and…I'm definitely not crying right now! (The paper was dotted with several teardrops, all tainted with water soluble mascara.) Please tell the others over at your branch base that I'll miss them all very much too!

Merry Christmas, Nao-chan!

Love, (With many heartshaped stickers and glitter powder stuck on)

Ivankov

(A lipstick print on it.)

P.S: I got Dragon to start writing his report himself and told him that his letters to you would help to improve his language. Please enjoy watching (reading?) his pain in every letter he sends!

…

26th December

Dear Nao,

How…have you been? (The words looked hesitantly written.)

Are you coming to the New Year's Gathering?

…Ivankov is a boy.

Dragon

-x-

29th December

Dear Dragon,

Thank you for inquiring about my wellbeing, Dragon-kun. You have done very well in heeding my advice.

I have been faring fairly well, and the mission you have given me is so far proceeding with much success. If all things proceed as planned, you would be pleased to know that our revolutionary army is very likely to officially increase by two hundred people by the end of this week! For the more critical administrative matters, Commander-san has already interviewed all of these new members personally, and Shipwright-san has already begun his training with them, so you need not worry about their reliability and strength.

My team and I are much relieved to say that we should be returning home by the end of next week, but unfortunately, it is unlikely that we would make it in time for the party. Nevertheless, please go on and have as much fun as you can, Dragon-kun. Every year that passes with us still alive, is, in a way, a victory for people like us afterall.

On the side note, please relay the message to Ivankov-chan that I miss her too. Tell her not to cry, and that, even while we are separated, we are still under the same vast, blue sky. It would be a huge pity to not come home to her bubbly presence.

Happy New Year, Dragon-kun.

Signed,

Fujioka Nao

P.S: Dragon-kun, I have expected better from you. Ivankov-chan is a girl and you should know better than to claim that girls are boys. I am sorry to say that I feel disappointed by your last sentence. Be careful not to insult Ivankov-chan or you may be burnt. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, as they say.

-x-

1st January

Dear Nao,

How are you?

I relay(ed?) the message to Ivankov.

Ivankov is a boy, not a girl.

Can you take care of my son?

Dragon

-x-

7th January

Dear Dragon,

I…I…(The pen was left standing on the paper for so long a large blotch of pen ink was left.)

…I must say that I feel quite apologetic for avoiding you in these past few days, and I sincerely apologize for my uncertainty, Dragon-kun, but…

Pardon my rudeness once again, but were you sober when you wrote your last letter?

I must say that I feel quite flustered suddenly being asked to be the caretaker of my superior's son. Up until that very moment, I did not even possess the knowledge that you had a child, and frankly speaking, I feel very frightened to ask this, but…Dragon-kun, were you seriously contemplating me to be the child's guardian?

I do understand that you want your child to be safe, and that, as one of the few revolutionaries who were fortunately able to remain hidden and without a bounty, I am a good candidate, but what was it that brought this up so suddenly? Before this, you have never once mentioned your family to anyone before, and what about the child's other relatives? Aren't there more capable people who can care for him?

Please pardon the messiness of my letter's content. I feel very confused at the moment. Please forgive me.

Signed,

Fujioka Nao

-x-

7th January

Dear Nao,

I am serious.

Garp is my father. He is the only…relative.

Dragon

…

Dear Dragon,

…And there it is, another bombshell for me to take within a day. If you have not shared the knowledge, I would have never suspected you to be the child of the marine Hero, no offense meant, of course. But then again, once I contemplate it, I suppose I should have expected it, given the bold ideals of the D bloodline.

You have yet to answer all but one of my questions, Dragon-kun.

…But given the fact that Garp-dono is the sole caregiver of your son…It would explain your concerns. The reason behind the marines' recent activeness can be explained by no reason other than Garp-dono's return and that respectable gentleman has always been crude and careless in his ways, despite having a position as honoured as his. …Would I be correct in my assumption that you are concerned by your son's wellbeing?

(The man nodded.)

Oddly enough, I recall that you hated writing with a fervent passion, Dragon-kun. We are side by side each other, yet why is it, I wonder, that we are writing instead of talking?

Fujioka Nao

…

Nao,

Some new devil fruit user glued my mouth shut.

…Please stop smiling.

Dragon

…

Dear Dragon,

Pardon my rudeness. I could not withhold my amusement from showing. It is rare that we revolutionary members can see the great leader Dragon-kun with his composure ruined by a new member. It is... (Laughter)…A thousand pardons…Amusing, to say the least.

Fujioka Nao

…

Nao,

Tch. So…Are you…yes-ing?

Dragon

…

Dear Dragon,

You meant, agreeing? (Dragon nods.)

I am contemplating upon your offer, as it is very rare that I get to spend time with kids my own physical age.

Just the other day, I heard a new recruit murmuring about my…condition. I suppose with how fast rumours run wild nowadays, it should be unsurprising that they know of my stunted growth. Many still treat me like a ten year old even now, and those who do not often take on a more sensitive stand. I was overwhelmed the other day when I simply tripped and the new recruits began fussing over the tiny wound.

Now, I really do appreciate their concerns…But occasionally, I find it tedious to get up and face that pitying glint in their eyes.

…

Nao,

…I know.

…

Dragon-kun,

Did you mean to say 'understand'?

…And no, you don't 'know'.

Fujioka Nao

…

Nao,

I don't (he tried to discretely peek at the word she wrote, and she pretended not to have noticed it) understand, but I know that you are…in pain.

Do you want to leave us?

…

Dear Dragon,

No, I don't wish to leave any of you behind! You are all very precious to me, and I wish to continue staying here, making a difference for others just as you have all done for me. But sometimes, I just-

(Her hand was grabbed as it was flying across the paper. Blinking widely with large aquamarine eyes, the girl lifted her head up to the much bigger man in confusion. He only gently took the pen away from her fragile fingers, as though wary of his own strength.)

…

Nao,

Shut up.

Let's go.

…

("Eh?" Her eyes widened.

She gasped as she was grabbed and thrown over the large man's shoulders like a sack of potatoes. Disgruntled, the young lady received a mouthful of her own chocolate brown hair and spluttered uncontrollably. The child's hands lifted, gently slapping Dragon's shoulders in indignity.

"P-Please put me back down, Dragon-kun." A hint of warning was in her voice.

The man only snorted, a rare gruff smile resting on his lips.

As he looked up into the sky and jumped high towards the moon, the girl's jaw fell open and a long scream erupted.

"K-KYAAAAAAAaaaaaaaah!")

-x-

Chapter 1: 'Onee-chan'

-x-

The trip to East Blue took approximately two days, partially because they were travelling at a speed faster than the newspaper seagulls do, and partially because his dear friend was struggling a lot lesser than she usually would – probably a result of having to fend off marine attacks for several days. Her team had taken a lot longer to reach HQ than expected because that rising star, Red Dog, had been in the area. They had to take quite the detour to avoid him, and the girl had exhausted her powers doing so.

Just thinking about the marines brought a bitter taste to his mouth; so instead, he turned his thoughts in another direction and focused on his homeland as he swept down.

"The next time you do that again, Dragon-kun," Nao smiled sweetly as she was gently put back on her feet. "Be warned that I may end you."

As great a man as Dragon is, even he felt shivers being sent down his spine at the bright, sparkly countenance she had when she said that. Nodding once, the great man lowered his head towards her – she barely reached his mid-thigh – and lifted a finger towards a vague direction of north-east.

"Your home village is there." She stated, waiting for affirmation.

He shook his head and pointed once more at the direction. Damn that pesky brat for gluing his lips shut.

"Your son is there." She corrected herself.

He nodded.

"If I may ask, what would your son's name be?" Nao politely inquired, with the same visage of a lady as always.

Her smile turned slightly amused as the large man searched his pockets for a piece of paper and a pen, having misplaced it somewhere when they were leaving the headquarters. He dug into his shoe, patted his clothes, and touched everywhere in particular to no avail for several minutes. Nao's smile soon turned sympathetic.

"The pen and paper are behind your ears." She pointed out.

Flustered, the man grabbed it and stared at the said objects in frustration. Ignoring the other revolutionary's giggles, he quickly scribbled down the name and passed it to her.

"'Monkey D. Luffy'" She read.

Nao smiled softly up at the boy's proud father and tilted her head.

"It is a really sweet name. Did you name him?"

Abashedly, the man rubbed his nose and looked away. Nao laughed at the sight and shook her head. What a hopeless yet sweet family.

Straightening herself, she decided to move on to the more administrative matters.

"Despite my reluctance to agree to this 'mission', since we are already here, I would be willing to be the caretaker of your son for half a year, as a test run." Nao smiled warmly when the man breathed a sigh of relief. "If by any chance, I find myself attached to this so-called mission, I would stay for a longer period of time. But until that half year mark, I shall be sending weekly reports to you through letters."

Dragon would have groaned if he could, so he only slumped in defeat at the mention of writing.

She chuckled.

"Now, Dragon-kun, it's not so bad having to write, is it? The number of words you can write has improved by leaps and bounds ever since you begun with that one short 'Hello.'" She pointed out.

The usually stoic man only lifted a hand to his face, as if to say 'Don't remind me.'

Amused, she laughed.

A comforting silence soon fell between them, and the pair of friends stood at the cliff, relaxed and happy at their reunification after a long time.

He breathed and turned his head, pushing her small back forward with a large muscular hand.

"I should go now, shouldn't I?" She smiled and looked up at him.

For a moment, they exchanged one last final glance, eyes conveying silent messages. In her eyes, Dragon found curiosity about his background, anticipation of meeting other children, and sadness, at having to part with the revolutionaries. In his, Nao found a parental protectiveness which was nothing like the Revolutionary Dragon marines and pirates alike feared, and so much pure faith in her that it touched her.

She lowered her eyes temporarily, a soft sincere smile lingering on her lips.

"Don't worry; I'll definitely take good care of Luffy-kun."

He blinked and grinned back.

One moment, Dragon was still there, and the next, he disappeared with the winds.

She continued gazing at the lonely moon in the sky for one last time before she swivelled around, fingers smoothing out her soft kimono dress out of a habit.

"Now," She glanced at the piece of paper still in her hand. "Should I look for Luffy-kun first?"

-x-

"…-uffy-kun! Luffy-kun!"

H-Huh? Mh…Who is it?

The first thing that Monkey D. Luffy took notice of when he roused was the gentle sound of twinkling bells, not especially loud and high-sounding like the ones at the village shoemaker's, but more of a gentle chiming sound. But since when did they ever install bells on their doors?

The next thing he noticed was the familiar smell of the ocean which his Grandpa always carried on him; the smell of something refreshing and new with a slight salty tinge. Then there was the smell of something fruity mixed in there as well, but the fruit's name soon faded beyond his reach when he caught a whiff of something even stronger smelling…

...That is…

"FOOD!"

Wide eyes popped open and he salivated.

Ignoring the person sitting beside him, he leapt to his feet and grabbed the plate of food from the offered hands, immediately chucking it down into his mouth like a starved man. It wasn't until he was half way through his food that he remembered Makino's lectures and slowed down, attempting to seem more civil and less wolf-like.

Grandpa wasn't here afterall, so he needn't worry about his food being stolen.

…

…

Wait…

"Where is your 'Itadakimasu', Luffy-kun?" The soft chime of the bell reproached gently.

…If Grandpa isn't the one beside him, then who is this?

He continued eating as his mind processed the situation, his pace not falling in the least. It wasn't until all of his precious food was sitting comfortably in his tummy that he whipped his head around.

"WHO THE HELL ARE YA?!" His eyes became so wide they looked ready to pop out.

Sitting before him was a young girl who looked barely twice his age – Luffy didn't know, since the village didn't have many kids, but given her small size, he would guess that she is either eight or nine years old.

Her small porcelain-like face was framed by thick bangs and long chocolate brown tresses, flowing down to her waist in gentle waves. An ever-present warm smile rested permanently on her curved lips, adding to Luffy's image of a doll, and Luffy found himself spending the most time admiring her large aquamarine eyes which reminded him of the ocean.

"So…So pretty."

He didn't know he said that out loud until the girl blinked, taken aback. At once, the hot tempered Luffy flushed and waved his hands wildly.

"N-No! I said wrongly! Ugly, I meant! Ugly! You look so ugly, and you're so not pretty at all!" He spluttered. He felt somewhat guilty for saying such mean things about the girl, but he was too obsessed with saving his manly pride to do anything about it.

Luckily, the girl seems to understand and only smiled warmly, lifting a hand to pat the crown of his head.

"Thank you." The soft chimes started again, and it ended as suddenly as it had started.

Luffy found himself missing her voice just a little, but quickly shrugged the foreign feeling off. It's not like he was a little kid needing other kids to mother him and treat him like a sheltered little brat. He's Garp's grandson afterall!

"I apologize for not having introduced myself…And for intruding without permission." She said, folding her palms over each other on her modest blue kimono dress.

Luffy's face scrunched up in confusion at the way she was speaking. The girl spoke with an air of a noble, which reminded Luffy of those princess books Makino loves to read to him; All sweet sound and amazingly polite with all the vocabulary that he usually shunned.

It suited her voice though, so he tried to understand her words.

"My name is Fujioka Nao, a revolutionary. I have been sent here recently by Dragon-kun to act as your temporary guardian or caretaker." She said.

"…Revolutia-what? Dra-gon? Who is that?" Luffy tilted his head in confusion.

Nao was startled.

"You are Monkey D. Luffy, aren't you?" She inquired.

"I am…But I don't know any Dragon around." Luffy answered honestly. The girl seems stunned before her expression transformed into a fond but secretive smile. "Oi, Girl, who is Dragon?"

"Luffy-kun, as your guardian, it is only appropriate for you to address me by my name. You will address me by 'Nao'." She smiled.

"You still haven't answered my question-"

"Nao." Luffy flinched. The girl's smile had suddenly grown brighter, despite the much darker aura that is writhing around her. The danger around her became much more obvious in an instant. "Please." She added politely.

"I-"

"Nao." Her smile grew.

"…Nao." Luffy reluctantly said, looking up as the dark aura immediately vanished. "Who is Dragon?"

The brunette girl paused mildly, looking away pensively.

"…He is someone you will meet in the future." Nao answered. Noticing his curious look, she sighed and took his plate, wanting to leave for the kitchen soon in order to end this uncomfortable conversation. "I ask that you be patient and do not question me about him for now. When the time is right, that shy man will eventually show himself to you and answer all your inquiries."

Luffy pouted, thankfully.

"Okay." The easily distracted child quickly brightened. "Then…You said that you came here in order to become my…whatever it is. What do you do as that?"

Nao blinked twice and contemplated.

"I have never deliberated about this…But I suppose my mission requirements would require me to live with you, take care of your physical wellbeing, and basically, be a parent for you." She noticed his constipated expression and smiled, simplifying things for the small child. "I will be your family."

"Oh! Why didn't you just say that?" Luffy laughed. Then, he fell silent. She could see the gears in his mind turning as he processed the word. "Wait, family?" He repeated, tilting his head at a 90 degree angle. "Family? Family? Faaaaamilly?"

She smiled kindly and stood to make her leave for the kitchen.

"EEEH?! YOU WILL BE MY FAMILY?!" The scream echoed from upstairs.

Even with her lady-like countenance, Nao couldn't help but allow a bubble of laughter to escape her. Whilst their personalities are completely different, she could not help but see a similarity between Luffy's thick headedness and Dragon's own oblivion when it came to certain matters…like girls, for one; Dragon never did understand Ivankov a lot.

"WAAAIT! NAO!"

Luffy darted into the kitchen, smoke trailing at his legs.

Nao was standing on the kitchen stand, calmly washing the dishes while keeping an eye on the young D. Much to her amusement, the raven haired boy looked up with stars in his wide eyes, filled with excitement at the prospect.

"You'll really be my onee-chan (big sister)?!" He almost yelled.

She couldn't help but smile a small, sincere one at the sight of his bright grin. Her eyes softened.

"You are correct." She affirmed with a whisper.

The boy's wide eyes lit up like a Christmas tree.

"T-Then! You will play games with me?!" He asked excitedly, stumbling over his words.

"Of course." She smiled at the boy's joy.

"We can have lots of parties?!" He practically vibrated on the spot.

"If you promise to eat more veggies." She said, noticing how the boy had made the grab for the meat on the plate first.

"I will! How about playing pranks on the villagers?!" Stars were shinning in his eyes.

"That's…" She trailed off, faltering at how the boy visibly withered. She replaced her smile with a sheepish sigh. "…If it's within reasonable standards, then by all means."

"YES!" He punched his fists into the air.

Aquamarine eyes widened in surprise when the boy suddenly leapt up towards her. In her shock, all she managed to do was to drop the plate into the sink with a clatter, and the next thing she knew, she was pushed onto the ground and being glomped by an armful of Monkey D. Luffy.

"Nao-onee-chan!" He laughed into her chest.

Once again, Nao was taken aback by the bubble of laughter that welled up in her. These D's are really…Somehow, she always found herself losing her composure when she is in their presence.

Luffy didn't seem to notice anything strange and simply continued laughing. Then, he suddenly fell silent, causing her to be concerned.

Luffy lifted his head shyly, face flushed with embarrassment.

"…I can call you that, right?"

His only response with a warm smile.

-x-

Perhaps it was because of the boy's lovable nature. Perhaps it was because she has always longed to be near someone of her own physical age. Or perhaps, it was because she had too enraptured in her role of being the perfect guardian…Somehow, in one way or another, she realized that by the end of the day, she was already forming a great sense of attachment to the child.

That night, when the lovable bundle of endless energy came knocking on the guest room's door, Nao found herself unable to disappoint the wide lonely eyes peering up hopefully at her. Instead, she opened the door wider and crawled back into the bed, lifting up the comforter for him.

Luffy, with his wide happy eyes and short cropped locks of raven, immediately ducked under her sheets. She was surprised by his hesitance when he snuggled up to her, as though frightened that she would reject him.

"Grandpa used to say that marines should be strong." He explained when she asked. "Strong enough to defeat the shadows and still be fearless!" He punched a fist into the air for emphasis.

She chuckled and shook her head.

"But Luffy-kun, do you really want to be a marine?" She asked.

The boy deliberated for several seconds and grinned brightly.

"Well…I don't know!" The blunt answer was astonishing, as was the boy's sincere belief in his answer. His wide eyes were shining brightly. "Grandpa has always said that marines are those who have to protect everyone, that marines are heroes! But…I only want to protect you, Makino and the other villagers! Because I am selfish; doesn't that mean that I cannot be a hero?"

Nao blinked slowly, stunned by both the fact that the small boy seemed so mature then and also because he had included her in his dreams. But that didn't seem to be the last of what Luffy has to say.

"Besides…" He continued in a smaller voice, burying his face in her side. "Being a Hero means you have to sacrifice your time with your family…So rather than being a hero for everyone, I much rather be a hero for people I love."

Ah…She understood then.

It was probably because of Garp that the child had such a mature outlook of these supposed 'heroes'. Even without knowing the man personally, she had always heard from Dragon that the marine Hero prioritized work over family. The same goes for the revolutionary as well, but…Who could blame both of them for loving their jobs more than their family? It was sad that Luffy was brushed off by both of them, but at the same time, she was unable to blame either of them for the boy's loneliness.

She smiled and lifted a hand, pushing it through soft raven locks. By her side, Luffy made a soft sound of surprise and pleasure. A parental motion like this was probably rare, given Garp's renowned bullheadedness.

"Then…Why don't you become a pirate?" She suggested in a whisper, as though telling a secret.

"A pirate?" Luffy perked up.

"Mh, a pirate." Most of the revolutionaries had once been a pirate or a marine, even Dragon, but she had been neither and had proceeded straight to being a revolutionary. "I have heard from some of my friends that pirates are free beings. They do whatever they like; go wherever they like; and nobody is able to control them."

"…Really? Nobody is able to control pirates?!" Luffy appeared awed.

She thought over it for another moment and added.

"…Other than the world." Luffy slumped.

"That means everyone is against them~!" He whined. "Then there's no point in being one!"

"But think about it this way, Luffy-kun," She chuckled. "If you can escape the control of the world, wouldn't that mean that you are the freest of the entire world?"

Luffy fell silent, taking in her words.

"The freest…" He echoed.

She smiled at his dazed look and knew he was pondering about the dream. If the boy does become a pirate, it would make his family the most varied one in the world – a marine, a revolutionary, and a pirate, three of the largest forces in the world. If all Monkey D. come together, they could wreck the world for all they are worth.

Luffy continued to look dazed.

Nao smiled and tugged the comforter to his chin, closing her eyes.

"Goodnight, Luffy-kun."

"…Goodnight, Nao-onee-chan."

That night, Luffy dreamt of travelling the four blues and the Grandline; He dreamt about getting the crown of the pirate king and being able to trample over marines and pirates alike. It wasn't exactly like being a hero since he isn't obliged to protect everyone, but with all that strength and power, he would bring the entire village and Nao along to see the world and still protect them at the same time. They would go on adventures to islands in the sky, islands under the sea, islands on fire, and many different islands!

When Nao parted her aquamarine eyes, she was surprised to find Luffy already awake and staring intently at her eyes. With a bright grin, the boy exclaimed:

"Nao-onee-chan, I'm going to be a pirate!"

-x-

13th January

Dear Dragon,

I am sure you would be jubilant to know that Luffy-kun is an excitable ball of energy, always doing something tirelessly in one way or another. He is also very strong, having underwent Garp-dono's strict training regime before he left. Just the other day, we were playing a game of catch when he accidentally knocked into a tree. In an angered daze, he had punched the poor living creature and the tree tumbled in no time at all. I finally comprehend now, why Garp-dono had located their house so far into the outskirts of the village; Young or old, they are simply too strong for the village's boundaries to contain them.

On a side note, I believe you would be very interested to know that I have recently started Luffy's education. Even though it will only be on the basics, I hope that by the end of my term here, he would be able to read and write legibly. So Dragon-kun, you may want to start writing more in your letters from now on before Luffy-kun catches up to you.

More importantly, for the past three days, I have been trying to remain hidden whenever we go into the village. Just Luffy-kun alone, being the grandson of marine Hero Garp, is already sufficient to catch everyone's attention – He does not need me adding more to his burdens. Every time, during our trips there, I would be observing from a long distance away, either from a tree or using a telescope.

I fear that should the villagers ever notice me, they would report the presence of a revolutionary to the marines and in doing so, leave the marines to find a connection that somehow links you to Luffy-kun. The mayor of the village seems quite adverse to the idea of pirates and revolutionaries, I dare say, hence the reason behind my paranoia.

Another problem I have is also related to Luffy-kun's social circle. Much to my dismay, Dragon-kun, Luffy-kun has the social circle of people with personalities like you, but with an entirely different personality. He is socially apt, but I have noticed he only hangs around other adults in a bar, and tends to avoid his peers altogether. This personality and social circle is causing a conflict in him, leading to a growing sense of loneliness which I fear I would not be able to cure by myself.

Is there any solution you could offer me, Dragon-kun?

Signed,

Fujioka Nao

-x-

16th January

Dear Nao,

How are you? We are doing fine.

Woop Slap (the mayor?) is a good person. But since you are afraid to be found…

…I fire you from the revolutionaries.

To make men stop fighting, put them together to talk

Dragon

-x-

She gazed at the sheet of paper for a millionth time, her brows pinching together as she sighed.

"Dragon-kun…I apologize, but I really do not understand how dismissing me from my revolutionary duties can help to cut all links between us." She whispered in exasperation. "Luffy-kun and the children are not men, but I guess I would give your ideas a try…"

"Nao-onee-chan, why are you talking to yourself?" Luffy gave her a strange look as he rushed out of the kitchen, a grin on his puffy face which was probably filled with food.

"Luffy-kun, please come here." She waved him over.

"Hm?" Luffy hummed in his usual adorable manner which brought a soft fond smile to her lips.

Walking over, the boy plopped down in the couch beside her. She barely even noticed when the child curled up into her warmth, having grown used to her revolutionary companions doing the same thing (in their case, they were doing it out of protectiveness, but it wasn't like she knew).

Luffy was only too happy to cuddle up to her even more. Grandpa has never allowed him to do such a thing, saying that 'Men should not like cuddles!', with all passionate explosion of volcanoes behind him and all, so the ever affectionate Luffy was only all too willing to cuddle as many times as he can now that someone allowed him. Besides, Grandpa was filled with hard, uncomfortable muscles, unlike the softer and much smoother Nao. Between the two, it was obvious who was better to cuddle with.

"Luffy-kun," She started off quietly. "Even though we have only been in each other's presence for a week, I noticed that you have always looked lonely whenever we have to separate for you to go to the village, or when I have to leave to purchase food."

"Mh-hm." Luffy nodded quietly, not really listening.

"The adults over at Makino-san's bar, too, often lack the sufficient time needed to entertain you…And it would be rude if we were to always trouble Makino-san in our free time, considering her line of business."

"Hm." He wondered where she was going with this. Nao is known to be longwinded whenever she is nervous, that's what he discovered recently.

"So Luffy-kun," Nao breathed and exhaled. "…Would you like to go to school?"

Luffy froze.

"…Hah?"

…

With the connections the revolutionaries as well as Dragon have in this village, it was an easy task for her to sign Luffy up under Makino's identity. Given her closeness with Luffy, she was certain that nobody in the village would protest against Luffy's entry into school. And even though the child himself, too, appears more than reluctant to go to school, she could only try to soothe him with uncertain promises that it will eventually get better.

"Luffy-kun, please remember not to mention my name to anyone, and do try to make friends with the other children." She said for the third time round as she fussed over his clothes.

"Why must I go to school?" He whined.

"It is an opportunity for you to interact with your peers, a chance to make friends." She explained worriedly with a hand on his head. "You cannot always stay beside me and Makino-san, Luffy-kun. Soon, you have to go out and explore on your own."

"But Nao-onee-chan, you're a kid too, aren't you?! Why can't you come with me to school?" Luffy pointed out accusingly.

She froze.

"Nh?" Luffy noticed the motion as well, but did not relax in his attempts to get out of this.

Slowly, she tried her best to relax and to act naturally, to ignore the memories that surfaced in her head and smile. She leaned down, and before Luffy knew it, he was enveloped in her arms, his face pressed into her shoulders tightly.

"Nao-onee-chan, what are you-?!" He squeaked at the sudden affection shown.

"Please, Luffy-kun, for now, please do not ask that question just yet." She murmured. Luffy fell silent, blinking with wide curious eyes. "In the future someday, I promise I will give you your answer. But until then, even if you do not understand my actions, please do as I say."

A moment of silence passed, before she released him. Luffy gazed up into her eyes, once again reminding himself of the colour he loved so much, and sucked in a mouthful of oxygen.

"…I got it!" He grinned. Knowing the child, she was not taken aback by the sudden change of heart. "I don't really know why you said all that, but I'll try to have fun! See ya later!"

He rushed out of the door.

She was left in the house, gazing blankly at the wood that shielded the house's occupants from outsiders. Touched by the boy's sensitivity, she gave a small sigh and looked away, making her way to the couch. She felt sorry that she wasn't able to explain, but given the circumstances, she doubt she could have told any more than that.

Since the infamous marine Hero Garp's grandson was attending the school, she had no doubt that more guards will be posted to the school in order to protect the children from potential pirate attacks. There was also the fact that the school was on the furthest part of the village from the docks, so if any danger approaches, she would be able to intercept before it reaches Luffy. With all these factors, there was no need for her to guard Luffy while he was in school.

She sighed once more as she slumped in the seat, dropping all remnants of her smile. Sometimes, secrets hurt a lot.

…

While Luffy was at school, loneliness ate away at Nao.

It was ironic, considering she was the one who sent him away, but she had never noticed her much of her life now orientates around Luffy compared to before. In the span of a month, the time she spent with Luffy had went from zero hours to devoting her entire day to him.

Perhaps, this is what's expected of a guardian – to be a twenty-four hour caretaker of their charge – but now that Luffy was gone for several hours, she was missing him and his antics dearly.

Staying in the huge two-storey shed which was Luffy's house, for the first time since she arrived, she noticed how strangely cold and empty it was. Everywhere, she thought she could see Luffy's figure running about, and she felt the urge to do the same things they usually do before – to whip out a stack of cards and play with him, to cook a large dinner in preparation for the hungry D, to tuck him in and ruffle his short hair.

Had Luffy always thought of it this way before she came?

On his first day of school, she eagerly awaited his return from the educational institution.

"Luffy-kun," Nao called when the door opened. Nao smiled her usual warm smile, not bothering to hide her relief, and opened her arms to the dear, dear boy of hers. "Welcome home. Did you have fun in school?"

And Luffy charges into her embrace, knocking her down.

"YEAH!" He screams in all his childish joy.

Seeing his smile, she decided that those few hours of loneliness were bearable. As long as her dear boy was happy, everything was alright.

...She never realized how she had came to think of him as 'her dear child' until that night, when she was looking up at the moon and wondering what she should write to Dragon.

…

The first sign that appeared was when Luffy suddenly gained the habit of cleaning himself. Up until then, she had always been the one to enter the shower with him to help him scrub his back clean of mud – the boy was still a five year old boy, still a child, so it was okay to see him naked, was what she thought. It surprised her when Luffy had pushed her out of the shower one day, shouting that it was okay for her to not help.

Nao had been moved; Her little boy was growing up.

Then, there was a sudden increase in Luffy's appetite. Once again, she chucked it up to a growth spurt and was all too happy to cook more for the little Monkey D. She had even given him more pocket money – It had always came from Dragon – to buy himself more lunch, but his stomach still appeared bottomless.

It wasn't until he began returning him with slight limps and scratches that she became concerned. She had approached the boy about this, but each time he laughed it off, it only made her more suspicious.

She wanted to follow him to school, but Luffy only smiled up at her and shook his head no, reminding her uncharacteristically of the first time he had begged her to join him. Hurt, she could only agree with him.

The final straw came on one fine afternoon.

In all honesty, she had been expecting it, anticipating it even, but she simply did not know how to get the child to admit it. Should she be the one to forcefully extract all evidences, it would only end up hurting Luffy's pride. In the long run, it could even cause permanent damages.

They had been doing their routine embrace after Luffy had returned home. Out of habit, she had leaned down and whispered into his ears 'Welcome home'. To her surprise, it was those two words which made Luffy break.

With his arms tightening even harder around her midget sized body, Nao was surprised when she looked down to find two streaks of tears trailing down Luffy's eyes. Worried, she panicked as Luffy cried even harder into her chest. Being the type that starts crying when the other party does it, tears welled up in her eyes.

"Luffy-kun, please tell me what is wrong." She begged him. "Everything shall be alright; Just tell me what is wrong, and I shall make things alright."

"WAAaaahh!" Luffy only cried harder.

Before she knew it, she started crying quietly as well.

"Why are you crying, Luffy-kun?" She cried, still trying to act lady-like even in such a situation.

"You too, Nao-onee-chan! Why are you crying?!" He sobbed back at her.

"I am crying because Luffy-kun is crying!" She explained between hiccups.

"Don't cry, Nao-onee-chan! Crying is only for weaklings! ...That's…What Grandpa said!" He wailed in realization. "Waaah! I'm a weakling!"

"Please…don't get hurt by your own words, Luffy-kun!" Nao sobbed back. "You'll only make me cry more!"

Needless to say the least, it took quite a while for the two of them recover their bearings. Later on, with many boxes of tissues lying across their laps and them snuggling into the fluffy soft couch Garp bought, Luffy sniffled beside her and summarized things with three words.

"I was bullied." He said.

She summarized her side of things with two.

"I know." She replied.

Silence returned. In all honesty, Luffy had long knew that Nao suspected it, and he was simply too confused about how to approach her over it. He didn't want to seem weak in her eyes, since she was his beloved nee-chan and he did not want to disappoint her. Nao, on the other hand, knew about this and was frightened to hurt Luffy's pride.

In a way, fate certainly has a weird way of dealing with things.

"What did they say to hurt you this much?" Nao was the first to initiate the conversation.

She pulled her little raven-headed angel's head into her lap and combed her fingers through his hair. Luffy lets her, feeling the torrent of emotions in his mind finally settle down. Whenever Luffy has nightmares, this action has never failed to chase away his inner demons. Without hesitation, he answered.

"They said that I'm a monster child because I have too much strength and because I am Grandpa's grandson." The way he phrased it was a little strange, but Nao understood it.

"And why did you let them walk all over you, Luffy-kun?" She asked, because that was the more curious part to this story. "I thought Garp-dono equipped you with the skills to combat any attacks."

Luffy fell silent and hesitant. Looking away, Nao was briefly reminded of Dragon when the boy flushed just the slightest and admitted the truth.

"If…If I had landed a hand on them, I would have ended up hurting those weaklings." Luffy grumbled. "I will be dispelled, even after all the trouble you went through to get me in there, and I would have made you angry."

Angry? No, letting the bullies think of him as a pushover was what made her infuriated.

"Oh, Luffy-kun," She sighed. Peering into the boy's eyes, she smiled. "Sometimes, even though it may be wrong to get into fights which aren't worth it, you should not allow yourself to get hurt to such extremes either."

"Mh? Why?" Luffy looked confused.

"…Because seeing you hurting will end up hurting the people around you instead." She explained. She swept her hand across his face gently. "Imagine how you would feel, if one day, someone appears out of nowhere and starts hitting me, calling me a monster."

"I…I would feel very angry!" A furious expression dominated Luffy's adorable features.

"That is how I felt whenever you return with those scratches." Nao stated bluntly.

Luffy looked contemplative and he placed an arm over his eyes.

"Huh." It was a short response, but she knew Luffy was absorbing it and making it part of his thinking process. The boy has always been quick to learn new things.

More importantly though…

"What else is there?" She questioned.

"Eh?"

"What else did they say that made you cry?" Nao elaborated.

Luffy looked away, puckering his lips in a way which Nao knew all too well. In response, the girl merely whipped out her beaming sparkly smile with all the malicious intent radiating out from her. Luffy squeaked, flinching on her lap.

"I know there is something else they said. You are incapable of lying, Luffy-kun." She smiled sweetly. Luffy cringed away as the dark aura intensified. "Please tell me, Luffy-kun. I need to know."

Several seconds of terse silence stood until the boy gave in.

"They…"

"They?" She encouraged him.

"…They said that nobody loves me." He muttered.

Aquamarine eyes widened.

As Luffy talked, his voice grew shakier.

"T-They said…that since Grandpa is always going away from the island, he obviously likes his job more and doesn't love me all that much. They said…" Onyx eyes grew watery once again and beads of tears welled up and dropped. "…They said…that I didn't know my parents because they hated me so much they don't want to see me…! And they said that nobody wants me, because I'm dirty and I'm a monster…"

Nao stared, stumped.

Even though he was still a gullible five year old, the fact that Luffy even considered believing those words clearly showed his insecurity. She felt slightly hurt that she was left out from those words, but then she realized: In her entire stay here, had she even told Luffy that she loved him? Perhaps…It was because of her vague stand, that Luffy derived his uncertainty. He was unsure whether she loved him, and in doing so, he lacked the solid trust which their relationship was built upon.

Aquamarine orbs hardened in determination.

As Luffy looked down, shifting as if he was ashamed, she frowned and grabbed his face, twisting it to meet her own eyes. Luffy was stunned by her uncharacteristic forcefulness.

"Never ever believe that, Luffy-kun," The boy found himself intimidated by her darkening eyes and the increasingly obvious lack of the ever-present smile on her lips. Nao never stops smiling, that was the one constant fact he has always known about her. "I do not know whether your family feel the same, and neither do I have any methods in which I can use to ascertain this, but…" She leaned in.

Luffy's eyes widened as she kissed his forehead.

"I will always love you, Luffy-kun." She smiled.

Nao giggled when she saw tears welling up in Luffy's eyes.

"That's what I am here for, aren't I?" Nao added.

-x-

25th March

Dear Dragon,

How have you been doing, Dragon-kun?

Luffy-kun and I have been doing well. A week ago, Luffy-kun has finally opened up to me and revealed the fact that he was being bullied. It did not seem to have a lasting effect on him…But I am still working to make him realize that he is loved by many. I still feel immensely guilty for allowing such a situation to happen, and I doubt even words from you will be able to soothe my guilt, but Luffy-kun has said that he has forgiven me…All that remains is for me to forgive myself.

Five days ago, I have withdrawn Luffy-kun from the school. Considering the students' attitudes towards Luffy-kun, as well as the fact that the school has barely been educating anything besides propaganda, I believe this to be a wise decision. Under my tutelage, Luffy-kun has been progressing far quicker than his peers, a fact which elicited jealousy from his peers. Even though we are behind schedule, I believe that we should be able to meet our target by the end of August.

Now, Dragon-kun, before you comment about a thing about the 'August' written above…Please know that my reply would be 'Yes'.

As abashed as I am to admit this, the incident this time has helped me to open my eyes to my feelings. I apologize for being so oblivious all this time; I…I never realized that I have truly come to think of Luffy-kun as a younger brother. Only now when I look back, do I notice the feelings of protectiveness and worry that have always coloured my previous letters. In hindsight, it was blatantly obvious that at one point or another, I have stopped thinking about my time with Luffy-kun as a mere mission, but more of spending time with family.

It must have caused much frustration to you, Dragon-kun, and I sincerely apologize for that.

I would love to continue staying with Luffy-kun, even past the half year mark. If possible, by all means, I would even stay as long as possible until Luffy-kun is old enough to be independent.

I understand that this is very selfish of me, given that I am a revolutionary and Luffy-kun is your son, but…Would you please allow me to continue being his guardian until then, Dragon-kun?

I promise that I shall take care of Luffy-kun to the best of my abilities, to keep him safe from all harm. Of course, should the revolutionaries ever require my help, I would be more than happy to rejoin you and fight the corrupt World Government…But just for a little while longer, until Luffy-kun is old enough, may I please be allowed to keep him as my first priority – as my charge?

Sincerely,

Fujioka Nao

-x-

28th March

Dear Nao,

Yes.

Dragon

-x-

A/N: Did you like it? Did you not? This will be my first one piece fanfic, so please be kind to me. Ironically, I have always sworn not to write any one piece fanfic, since I'm not the most devoted person out there, but after rewatching the entire anime…this idea just hatched, somehow. For the fans of my other stories, I sincerely apologize for not updating those other stories. I'm still in the midst of my o levels, so I actually shouldn't do this at all, but…I just need to get this out of my system.

Even though I somewhat like this story, I'm not sure how it would seem in the eyes of others. Of course, I beg of you not to bash this story, but please share with me your opinions on this story.