Right. [Deep breaths, squaring his shoulders and smiling. Koby is genuinely happy to see Luffy -- every single time. He doesn't take it for granted, knowing it's never guaranteed. Not for a pirate and a marine.
So, smiling:] Hi. It's good to see you too. I hope you didn't make yourself sick with rum cake. Are you feeling all right?
Feeling better for seeing you. And no, I wasn't sick. Still confused on why someone would put it in a cake, but maybe they wanted to save time. Why drink and eat when you can do both?
(Luffy gives a small shrug on that one, somewhat baffled by the whole ordeal. He's a little unsteady on his feet, but other than that it seems he's alright for now.)
Oh. You do? [Koby finds himself grinning, irrationally pleased by the idea that Luffy's that happy to see him.] Some people like the taste, I suppose? I've never really understood it either.
[They're far from the water, but Koby still immediately notes where the dock ends, wanting to make sure Luffy doesn't accidentally wobble into the sea.] It's...harder than I thought, though that might be because of Garp. He has some...creative training methods.
( Luffy can't say he enjoyed the taste much, but cake is cake. He'll just have to be more careful when Zoro brings "food" back with him.
Some would be insulted that a friend would need to make sure they didn't fall into water; Luffy simply appreciates it for what it is, nose wrinkling in amusement at the mention of Garp's training methods. He knows those all too well and he stops walking, putting a hand on Koby's shoulder with a serious expression. )
You're a stronger person than I am going through that, but I'm gonna tell you something. Keep it close though, use it for emergencies. If there are days where you just can't do another round, then by all means. But it probably will only work once.
Just remind the old man about the donut record. That's all you'll need to say, you won't see him for a few days after so you should get some breathing room.
The...donut record. [Koby desperately wants to ask the story behind this, but he's honestly still reeling because of the whole "Garp is Luffy's grandpa" thing. Sometimes he remembers it all of a sudden and has to sit down and reevaluate his life all over again.
So he just nods, slowly, filing the mysterious information away, just in case. For later. For when he needs a break from the battleship-punching and laps and whatnot.] Right. Um, thank you. I'll save it for an emergency.
Yeah. Donut record. ( Luffy repeats the words as if they make complete sense, giving Koby's shoulder a clap before he begins walking again. It'd be enough to distract Garp for at least three days, unless someone else intervened, but Luffy knows the old man is stubborn enough to see it through.... )
Hm? Oh right yeah, that. Well, kinda? He tried but I'd already made my mind up so it was a lot of fights and arguments mostly. ( Luffy gives a small huff of laughter, fondly remembering it even if it wasn't the greatest. Speaking of, Koby hasn't been fired for declining orders at Conomi, which must mean — )
...right. [Well, Koby's not going to question it. Luffy's already proven that he knows what he's talking about most of the time, so rejecting knowledge from him would probably be stupid.
Hurrying to catch up, he falls back into step with Luffy, still angling himself between his friend and the water.] Considering how you two fought at Conomi, I can't imagine it got anywhere. Garp's never been able to make you do anything, huh? [[There's a definite note of admiration in his voice as he says it, even though that probably counts as insubordination.]
Oh! Yes, me and Helmeppo. The, um -- [He motions to indicate the truly impressive bowl cut the other cadet has. Which, come on Koby, glass houses.] Other one who refused to obey orders. Garp actually sort of...praised us for it?
He's made me do things, I just made sure he never took my dream is all.
(There's always some knowledge when it comes to Luffy and his grandfather, though as Koby would suspect, it would always revolve around food. Such is the way of things.
Luffy is still talking and walking, somehow managing a semi-straight line as he's subconsciously following the smell of something cooking in the distance. He's distracted by a feeling of pride for his friend, a fierce and welcome sensation that has young man's eyes lighting up.)
That's the best news for you! You're smashing that dream, at this rate you're gonna need a new one cause you'll have surpassed it and more. And.... I think you'll do the old man some good too. (Luffy taps his chin.) Huh, I thought his name was actually haircut.
I guess that's the most important thing. [Koby is perfectly content to follow along, wherever it is Luffy's going -- it's spending time in his company that's most important, after all. He's trying his best to make the most of it, not think about all the potentials, what may or may not come next.
At the mention of a new dream, Koby glances quickly, sideways at Luffy, then forces himself to look forward again.] It'd have to be one that fits with the first one. Which...rules some things out.
[Clearing his throat, he manages a smile.] That's a little more fitting, but don't tell him I said that. He's actually been -- sort of nice? He called us "friends", which is...more than I anticipated, considering I punched him in the face.
Really, you've already joined the marines, a huge step. Maybe we should be telling the old man to watch out for his own job, because Koby the Marine is coming for it.
(Luffy may be grinning but he's deadly seriously. If there's anyone who can climb the ranks, it's Koby, no doubt in his mind about it. This is someone who went from being held on Alvida's ship unable to do much about it, to one of Garp's own trainees. Most never made the first step let alone registered on Garp's radar, whilst Koby not only did that but managed to land running.
It's inspiring and Luffy gives Koby's back another pat before pausing and tilting his head.)
Rule things out...? And huh, maybe he needed that hit, knocked some sense into him. But if you're happy with him then I'm happy.
[Koby makes a strangled sort of laughing sound, face turning bright red at the very thought.] I -- don't know about that. I'd settle for not getting kicked out in the first month. Rising up the ranks can come later. [Still, it makes something warm and pleased curl in his chest to know Luffy thinks that of him -- because Koby knows perfectly well it isn't empty praise. Luffy doesn't do that kind of thing.
Then, shrugging, crossing his arms and looking down at his feet:] Well, I wouldn't be able to just -- go off somewhere and pursue some other dream. I have responsibilities now. Commitments. I couldn't, say...hop on someone's ship for a few weeks. See what I mean?
One day you'll look back at this time and think wow, I came really far!
(Luffy hopes he can say the same for himself in future too, turning to walk backwards so he can look at Koby as he talks. In the distance is a burger stand, obviously singing the song of it's people and drawing the pirate captain in.
Responsibilities is a big word and even bigger deal. Luffy kind of gets it now he has a crew; he's responsible for them and ensuring they stay safe. He knows he wouldn't just up and leave them for a two week holiday, but at the same time he has no reason to. Marines are a different deal though, their days are full of work and in Luffy's mind a break is always going to be good.)
You can always hop on mine, just give me the word and we'll have you whisked away like the pirates we are.
[That's what's so great about Luffy -- he just says the most positive, uplifting things, and it's easy to tell he means every word. Koby can't help but smile around him, regardless of how tired from training he is.
But then his expression goes faraway, thoughtful.] I've thought about that, how things would've been different if I'd gone with you, back in Shells Town. Whether I'd be different.
You have? (It's not overly surprising to hear though it is a small, warm feeling to know that Koby occasionally wonders. Luffy wonders too but he understands all too well that some people did better as pirates as others did as marines. The pair of them know it and Luffy rubs the back of his neck, expression wry. Koby most likely would not have enjoyed the list of enemies the crew have already encountered.)
You are missed, can't lie about that, but I also like who you are now. You're stronger. (The pirate captain gives a cheeky wink.) Best I can do is a two week kidnapping, on the house.
Yeah. I wonder if it would've fit better or...been easier. [Then Koby laughs, embarrassed, shoving his hands in his pockets.] Then again, I've seen the sort of people you tend to get in fights with, so "easier" probably isn't the right word.
[He looks up, expression hard to read behind his glasses, with the sun glinting off the lenses.] If I hadn't told you what my dream was...would you have asked me to come with you? [He knows Luffy wouldn't have, knowing what Koby wanted, but if he hadn't...]
(Koby would have found his niche in the crew just like the others had. Even Usopp has his own place and Luffy doesn't doubt for a second Koby would have too. Though the killer clown going to pieces may have tipped him over the edge, that would had been a rough time. It had been for everyone involved.)
Why wouldn't I? (Luffy tilts his head, expression curious at that question. If Koby hadn't mentioned his dream then he would absolutely have made the offer until the other was comfortable sharing that wish.) Koby, you were my first crew mate and we sailed to Shells Town together. I'll never forget that and no matter what happens there's always space for you on the Going Merry if you ever need it. Some people can find their dreams change and if the marines isn't working out, then try and find us.
[The seven-foot-tall pirate vampire with the enormous sword was enough, thanks. And the shark people. And everything else.
Still, Koby pauses, shoulders scrunched up to his ears, hesitating for a long moment before replying.] If you'd asked me, I would've said yes. Even...even with the marines. [Then he shakes his head, hard, continuing to walk.] But that's -- over and done with. No use dwelling, right?
(Yeah, even Kuro had been a real pain and Koby would know that from experience. But now it's just the ocean and the Grand Line, what's the worst that could happen?
Luffy pauses at those words, moving to stand in front of Koby with an almost concerned expression in his eyes.)
It wouldn't be my place to ask you not to chase your dream, Koby. If you had joined you probably would have been wondering about why you didn't join the marines instead. But...if it's not working, or you're unhappy, then you can still join us. Anytime. You don't have to dwell on anything as long as you know you have options.
[Koby can very easily imagine the worst that could happen. He has a fantastic imagination.
But now he's preoccupied with their conversation, looking up and meeting Luffy's eyes for a long moment. Then he exhales, pushing his glasses back up his nose.] You're right. You usually are. I guess it's...
...I miss you. I wish it were easier to see you. That's all.
Maybe, but it's not about being right it's about making sure you're okay.
(The reality of it is though is a little trickier to solve and Luffy can't deny that small pang of sorrow in his chest at Koby's comment. They'd only been together a short time and even Luffy misses his friend, taking solace in the fact the other is out there chasing his dream and making it a reality. Luffy supposes that will have to do, who is he to take someone's dream away in a selfish moment?)
I miss you too. I don't know, maybe we can get some of those little transponder snails? Nami used to have one.
I am. I'm so much better than I have been in...ever, I think.
[Koby offers a smile, stepping forward, instinctively reaching out to touch Luffy's arm. The last thing he wants is to make this sad, not when this could be one of the last times they're able to hang out like this. Luffy's headed for the Grand Line, after all. People go there and they don't come back.
Pushing the thoughts away, Koby adds:] I'm happier than I've ever been, and it's because of you. I don't want you to think I'm not, okay?
I just...wonder sometimes. That's all. [Then, blinking:] Nami did? Why?
( Luffy gives a nod, not at all feeling any sort of misery, just a small sense of pride in a friend who's surpassed themselves. )
You look better too. ( Confidence perhaps? Luffy's not sure, but Koby is definitely nowhere near as nervous as they had been upon first meeting. Who knows where Koby will be in a few years? Running some part of the marines no doubt, Luffy would bet on it. )
Not sure, I think she had people to call. Wait, do you smell that? ( Whatever hot gossip Luffy had been about to drop is lost as he clutches at the hand on his arm, sniffing the air appreciatively. ) Smells like meat. Cooked meat!
Do I? [Koby needs about ten solid minutes to process that, turning pink-cheeked and pleased. He's got better posture for sure -- less hunching, less trying to disappear in his own skin. It's shockingly nice to hear that someone -- that Luffy has noticed.
But the siren call of meat must take priority, as per usual. Koby blinks a few times, already shaking his head.] I don't smell anything but ocean. But if you smell it, I believe you. [Luffy's powers somehow extend to preternatural meat-smelling.]
(It's definitely the smell of something roasting, spiced meat of some kind that's being cooked on an open flame. That, coupled with how Koby is reddening at the compliment, is an almost intoxicating mix and Luffy is already plotting. This can be a last adventure before they cross paths again, obviously it's fate that someone nearby is cooking something so mouth-wateringly fragrant and the pirate captain keeps hold of Koby's hand before tugging the young marine in a specific direction.
Luffy may not be falling over drunk, but he's definitely more physically affectionate.)
Yeah! We should find it and treat ourselves. You up for it?
[Of course Koby's already nodding, smiling, holding tight to Luffy's hand. Luffy could tell him they're about to leap into an active volcano, and Koby would probably go along with it -- not just because this is probably goodbye for a while, not just because he's flustered and pleased by the compliment. It could be two, five, ten years between them meeting, and if Luffy suddenly appeared and asked Koby to run into the unknown with him, he would in an instant.
So of course he nods.] Yeah, why not? As long as you're leading the way.
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So, smiling:] Hi. It's good to see you too. I hope you didn't make yourself sick with rum cake. Are you feeling all right?
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(Luffy gives a small shrug on that one, somewhat baffled by the whole ordeal. He's a little unsteady on his feet, but other than that it seems he's alright for now.)
How are things being a good marine?
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[They're far from the water, but Koby still immediately notes where the dock ends, wanting to make sure Luffy doesn't accidentally wobble into the sea.] It's...harder than I thought, though that might be because of Garp. He has some...creative training methods.
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Some would be insulted that a friend would need to make sure they didn't fall into water; Luffy simply appreciates it for what it is, nose wrinkling in amusement at the mention of Garp's training methods. He knows those all too well and he stops walking, putting a hand on Koby's shoulder with a serious expression. )
You're a stronger person than I am going through that, but I'm gonna tell you something. Keep it close though, use it for emergencies. If there are days where you just can't do another round, then by all means. But it probably will only work once.
Just remind the old man about the donut record. That's all you'll need to say, you won't see him for a few days after so you should get some breathing room.
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So he just nods, slowly, filing the mysterious information away, just in case. For later. For when he needs a break from the battleship-punching and laps and whatnot.] Right. Um, thank you. I'll save it for an emergency.
...you trained with him too, right?
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Hm? Oh right yeah, that. Well, kinda? He tried but I'd already made my mind up so it was a lot of fights and arguments mostly. ( Luffy gives a small huff of laughter, fondly remembering it even if it wasn't the greatest. Speaking of, Koby hasn't been fired for declining orders at Conomi, which must mean — )
You in line for training then?
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Hurrying to catch up, he falls back into step with Luffy, still angling himself between his friend and the water.] Considering how you two fought at Conomi, I can't imagine it got anywhere. Garp's never been able to make you do anything, huh? [[There's a definite note of admiration in his voice as he says it, even though that probably counts as insubordination.]
Oh! Yes, me and Helmeppo. The, um -- [He motions to indicate the truly impressive bowl cut the other cadet has. Which, come on Koby, glass houses.] Other one who refused to obey orders. Garp actually sort of...praised us for it?
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(There's always some knowledge when it comes to Luffy and his grandfather, though as Koby would suspect, it would always revolve around food. Such is the way of things.
Luffy is still talking and walking, somehow managing a semi-straight line as he's subconsciously following the smell of something cooking in the distance. He's distracted by a feeling of pride for his friend, a fierce and welcome sensation that has young man's eyes lighting up.)
That's the best news for you! You're smashing that dream, at this rate you're gonna need a new one cause you'll have surpassed it and more. And.... I think you'll do the old man some good too. (Luffy taps his chin.) Huh, I thought his name was actually haircut.
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At the mention of a new dream, Koby glances quickly, sideways at Luffy, then forces himself to look forward again.] It'd have to be one that fits with the first one. Which...rules some things out.
[Clearing his throat, he manages a smile.] That's a little more fitting, but don't tell him I said that. He's actually been -- sort of nice? He called us "friends", which is...more than I anticipated, considering I punched him in the face.
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(Luffy may be grinning but he's deadly seriously. If there's anyone who can climb the ranks, it's Koby, no doubt in his mind about it. This is someone who went from being held on Alvida's ship unable to do much about it, to one of Garp's own trainees. Most never made the first step let alone registered on Garp's radar, whilst Koby not only did that but managed to land running.
It's inspiring and Luffy gives Koby's back another pat before pausing and tilting his head.)
Rule things out...? And huh, maybe he needed that hit, knocked some sense into him. But if you're happy with him then I'm happy.
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Then, shrugging, crossing his arms and looking down at his feet:] Well, I wouldn't be able to just -- go off somewhere and pursue some other dream. I have responsibilities now. Commitments. I couldn't, say...hop on someone's ship for a few weeks. See what I mean?
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(Luffy hopes he can say the same for himself in future too, turning to walk backwards so he can look at Koby as he talks. In the distance is a burger stand, obviously singing the song of it's people and drawing the pirate captain in.
Responsibilities is a big word and even bigger deal. Luffy kind of gets it now he has a crew; he's responsible for them and ensuring they stay safe. He knows he wouldn't just up and leave them for a two week holiday, but at the same time he has no reason to. Marines are a different deal though, their days are full of work and in Luffy's mind a break is always going to be good.)
You can always hop on mine, just give me the word and we'll have you whisked away like the pirates we are.
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But then his expression goes faraway, thoughtful.] I've thought about that, how things would've been different if I'd gone with you, back in Shells Town. Whether I'd be different.
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You are missed, can't lie about that, but I also like who you are now. You're stronger. (The pirate captain gives a cheeky wink.) Best I can do is a two week kidnapping, on the house.
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[He looks up, expression hard to read behind his glasses, with the sun glinting off the lenses.] If I hadn't told you what my dream was...would you have asked me to come with you? [He knows Luffy wouldn't have, knowing what Koby wanted, but if he hadn't...]
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Why wouldn't I? (Luffy tilts his head, expression curious at that question. If Koby hadn't mentioned his dream then he would absolutely have made the offer until the other was comfortable sharing that wish.) Koby, you were my first crew mate and we sailed to Shells Town together. I'll never forget that and no matter what happens there's always space for you on the Going Merry if you ever need it. Some people can find their dreams change and if the marines isn't working out, then try and find us.
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Still, Koby pauses, shoulders scrunched up to his ears, hesitating for a long moment before replying.] If you'd asked me, I would've said yes. Even...even with the marines. [Then he shakes his head, hard, continuing to walk.] But that's -- over and done with. No use dwelling, right?
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Luffy pauses at those words, moving to stand in front of Koby with an almost concerned expression in his eyes.)
It wouldn't be my place to ask you not to chase your dream, Koby. If you had joined you probably would have been wondering about why you didn't join the marines instead. But...if it's not working, or you're unhappy, then you can still join us. Anytime. You don't have to dwell on anything as long as you know you have options.
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But now he's preoccupied with their conversation, looking up and meeting Luffy's eyes for a long moment. Then he exhales, pushing his glasses back up his nose.] You're right. You usually are. I guess it's...
...I miss you. I wish it were easier to see you. That's all.
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(The reality of it is though is a little trickier to solve and Luffy can't deny that small pang of sorrow in his chest at Koby's comment. They'd only been together a short time and even Luffy misses his friend, taking solace in the fact the other is out there chasing his dream and making it a reality. Luffy supposes that will have to do, who is he to take someone's dream away in a selfish moment?)
I miss you too. I don't know, maybe we can get some of those little transponder snails? Nami used to have one.
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[Koby offers a smile, stepping forward, instinctively reaching out to touch Luffy's arm. The last thing he wants is to make this sad, not when this could be one of the last times they're able to hang out like this. Luffy's headed for the Grand Line, after all. People go there and they don't come back.
Pushing the thoughts away, Koby adds:] I'm happier than I've ever been, and it's because of you. I don't want you to think I'm not, okay?
I just...wonder sometimes. That's all. [Then, blinking:] Nami did? Why?
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You look better too. ( Confidence perhaps? Luffy's not sure, but Koby is definitely nowhere near as nervous as they had been upon first meeting. Who knows where Koby will be in a few years? Running some part of the marines no doubt, Luffy would bet on it. )
Not sure, I think she had people to call. Wait, do you smell that? ( Whatever hot gossip Luffy had been about to drop is lost as he clutches at the hand on his arm, sniffing the air appreciatively. ) Smells like meat. Cooked meat!
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But the siren call of meat must take priority, as per usual. Koby blinks a few times, already shaking his head.] I don't smell anything but ocean. But if you smell it, I believe you. [Luffy's powers somehow extend to preternatural meat-smelling.]
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Luffy may not be falling over drunk, but he's definitely more physically affectionate.)
Yeah! We should find it and treat ourselves. You up for it?
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So of course he nods.] Yeah, why not? As long as you're leading the way.
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