#modified/abnormal haki

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Share this Burden chapter Nine

Chapter Nine: Are you?

[Part Seven] [Part Eight] [Part Ten]

[A/n: I'm sorry this is super short but I have been out of practice and wanted to push this chapter out. I hope it's alright]

Apprehension settled heavily in Ume’s stomach. She had expected something small. She knew exactly two people and while she didn’t want to assume, she doubted Sakazuki was friendly enough to know much more. 

So color her surprised when they approached the church and there was a crowd surrounding the building. Her throat went dry as she slowed down, the only thing keeping her going forward was his hand around hers. 

Camera’s started to flash as they got closer. The mass of bodies erupting with noise. It pushed and pulled at her mind. Excitement and curiosity thrummed through the throng of people. She could feel the unasked questions, the confusion that circled around and around and around. It made her dizzy, she felt all of those emotions were coalescing into a giant serpent determined to swallow her whole.

Inadvertently she clung to Sakazuki. Her hand gripped his tighter as she wrapped her arm around his forearm. Ume felt him stiffen but his stride never faltered. His eyes dead ahead as he ignored everything going on around them. He had been steadfast since they left home. A simmering pot of anticipation and impatience. 

In the wake of all that was going on he was a strange beacon. The weight of his hand and feelings prevented her from fully succumbing to the others that surrounded her. 

When they reached the entrance of the church Sakazuki practically tore the door open. The undercurrent of annoyance made his movements harsh as he ushered her inside. She didn’t mind, not exactly. It was quieter now. The thick walls prevented much of the noise from getting in. She could still hear everything, feel it all clawing at the back of her thoughts but it was easier to focus. 

Out of sight but not entirely out of mind.

Breathing steadily through her nose she looked around. Her vice grip on his hand loosened slightly. She thought of letting go and possibly sitting down but the sudden pang of displeasure that exploded behind her eyes made her pause. Looking up at her soon to be husband she noticed he wasn’t looking at her, pointedly so. If he was attempting to go for an air of nonchalance as he took in the interior he was failing. 

It was amusing, maybe even cute in a way. But it was also a hindrance. His dissatisfaction was uncomfortable. It pricked and stung and she did not wish to deal with it. 

“I wasn’t going to let go.” The words slipped out before she could stop them. Indignation flared to life as he snapped his head to look down at her. The tips of his ears turned a light shade of pink as his jaw twitched. His mouth opened prepared to say something when he was interrupted. 

The appearance of Garp and Sengoku stopped any lies that would have stumbled from Sakazuki’s mouth. The older Vice-Admiral stepped between them, dislodging their hands as he brought Ume in for a hug. She couldn’t help herself as her arms wrapped around the other man. The heavy smell of metal and sweetened dough filled her nose. It was a scent that screamed comfort and she could feel herself relaxing ever so slightly. 

“How ya doin kid?” That was a loaded question. Garp was concerned about her and she knew if she asked he would stop this. He would take her away and bring her to whatever island she wanted. All she had to do was ask and she would be alone again. 

“I’m nervous.” He was looking at her like he had expected something else. Doubt was rolling off Garp like a fog. The dense feeling settled damply over her mind and she couldn’t help but sigh.

“I want this, it’s alright.” Her mouth twitched the slightest bit. Not quite being able to form a smile. His eyes narrowed still trying to see if she was lying but it was hard to focus on that. Garp’s suspicion was swept away in the wake of the joy that was suddenly borderline suffocating her. It sparked and sizzled along her psyche. It felt like someone was dancing with fire behind her mind's eye. Swirling in an intricate pattern that was both breathtaking and dangerous.

A slither of fondness shot through her chest. Removing herself from Garp, she grabbed Sakazuki’s hand again. Intertwining their fingers she let his satisfaction wash over her. Let it drown out the hazy feelings of doubt and her own nerves.

“Ready?” Ume already knew the answer. Has felt his impatience since he announced his desire to marry her in Kong’s office. But she wanted to hear him say it. Didn’t want to just feel his eagerness. 

“Yes.” He glanced down at her, his mouth slightly turned down and brows furrowed. His own nerves crept along his happiness as he stared down at her. 

“Are you?” It was spoken so softly. He didn’t want Garp to hear him. He didn’t want his question to be warped and misconstrued. Squeezing his hand in hers she nodded.

“Yes I am.”

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Share this Burden Chapter Four

Chapter Four: Less of a fight

[Part One] [Part Two] [Part Three] [Part Five]

Ume watched as Garp paced. He was furious, grumbling and cursing. His eyes kept darting back to the door that hid the Fleet Admiral and Sakazuki. Sengoku was standing next to her watching as his old friend raged through the hallways. He was more subdued, more willing to think positively.

“You know this could be good.” His voice was low so as to not draw the attention of the angry Vice Admiral. “You won't have to be alone.” He was right but it left a bitter taste on her tongue. Ume had given up on the thought of finding someone. Mostly because who would want this? It was a cruel punishment to know what others were feeling. To feel emotions that weren’t your own needling their way into one’s mind. To have them suffocating and pushing down your own until you didn’t know where yours began and the intruders ended. 

No one would want that and it had proven true until now. Though she knows that he doesn’t truly understand what he is asking. Sakazuki is so full of righteous fury and a molten desire to never be questioned that he isn’t thinking correctly. The small selfish part of her brain is elated at his stupidity. Almost to an overwhelmingly euphoric degree. It’s the part that kept her mouth shut when he said that yes he did want to marry her. 

Ume wanted to say she didn’t want this. But that would not be entirely true. She didn’t want him but she wanted someone. 

“What are you whispering about?” Garp was suddenly in Sengoku’s face. The Admiral shook his head and sighed. Listening to them bicker made her head throb as she was forced back into the moment. Her thigh pulsed as pain lanced through it. Sudden crushing fatigue weighed on her shoulders. Her slumping against the wall got both men’s attention.

“Kid you alright?” Garp was at her side. His arm wrapped around her to support her. She leaned heavily against the older man. Her eyes slipped closed as she nodded.

“Just tired.” she mumbled. They were worried and she thought that was sweet. But concern was weird, it jumped and writhed around in her mind. She tried to shove it from the forefront of her brain when she heard the door open. A wave of heat washed over her and she cracked her eyes open. 

“Let’s go.” Sakazuki’s eyes narrow as he takes in the other Vice Admiral. He was holding Ume and he would have none of that. He went to grab his fiance when Garp shifted away from him, taking her with him. The muscles in his jaw clenched as a low growl rolled from his throat. Sengoku stepped between them and had the audacity to glare at him.

“Calm down.” it was an order and Sakazuki wanted to rip his throat out. But instead he watched Garp ruffle Ume’s hair. He hated it.

“We’ll see you soon. Promise.” Garp patted her head one more time before releasing her. Sengoku reached out and squeezed her shoulder. His nostrils flared, they just kept touching her. She only had her eyes on them and he was just standing there letting it happen. He resisted the urge to bare his teeth at the other two men as she removed herself from them. His arm snaked out the moment she got closer, wrapping it around her waist he shuffled her down the hallway. As much as he wanted to cloister her away in his home and have her attention slowly on him he knew he needed to take care of her. Her breathing was shallow and he felt her stumble at the quick pace he had set.

“May we slow down, please?” she tugged on his sleeve and he felt his eyebrow twitch. He looked down at her and felt his heart leap into his throat. Her eyes held galaxies and he felt himself come to a full stop. Sakazuki wanted her to look at him and only him. He never wanted her to lay eyes on another ever again. No one else deserved to look at or be looked at by her. That should be his privilege and his alone.

Tearing his gaze away he lifted her into his arms. Blood was rushing in his ears and he could feel heat crawling up his neck. She let out a small sound and he could feel her still looking at him. But he couldn’t look at her. He couldn’t get distracted again. Not out here where everyone could see him.

The rest of the walk back to the hospital was a quiet blur. Handing her back over to the doctors burned just like the first time. But he couldn’t take care of her so it needed to be done. He noticed that the curtain was replaced as he listened to them tend to Ume. He could not hear her voice, either the doctor was too loud or she was incredibly silent. It was unnerving how silent she was. Before leaving Kong’s office he had tried prodding the other man for more information. The Fleet Admiral was tight lipped and told him to talk to her.

Have a conversation, he said.

He could feel the wall warping beneath him. When the doctor emerged he watched him jump, sweat beading down his neck as he tapped a pen against the clipboard. 

“Ah hello Sir.” The tapping got just a bit louder. “So um she reopened the stitches on her thigh and some of her older wounds had become irritated from overexertion. But other than that all she needs is rest.” He watched the man's adams apple bob. “I’ve sent a nurse to get her something to eat.” Sakazuki let out a small hum.

“When will she be discharged?” The tapping pen paused.

“Oh tomorrow night at the earliest. If she takes to the food and if she stays in bed until then.” the doctor straightened. “She will need to take it easier for about a month or two, Sir.” giving a curt nod he brushed past the shorter man. Pulling a chair along with him he set himself down to take in the image of his soon to be wife. Her eyes were closed and her breathing was more even now. Pillows propped up her head and her hands rested on her chest. It upset something deep inside of him at how unhealthy she looks. The dingy hospital bed looked giant as it held her. 

“You’re an idiot.” He said it before he could stop himself. She didn’t open her eyes but her head did tilt towards him.

“I am aware.” Her tone was unapologetic and lacked any emotion really. He could feel his fingernails biting into his palm. Her dismissiveness grated on his nerves. How could she speak so casually?

He went to stay more, to growl or yell; to just do something but a nurse walked in. She smiled at him and placed a tray on Ume’s lap. Giving a nod to the nurse he zeroed back in on Ume. Her eyes had peeked open and she was looking at the food. There was a clear distaste and disinterest on her face. It angered him that she didn’t want to eat. But it also elated him that she was showing something.

“Eat.” he demanded and watched as she sighed but dipped the spoon into the soup anyways.

It felt normal that she had someone watching her so intently. It was a feeling she had grown far too familiar with. But it felt strange that he was doing so while she was eating. It made her want to stop, made her think something was wrong with the food. 

Yet she carried on.

The soup was bland and she was hardly inclined to finish it. But he kept staring. Kept watching so she kept eating until there was nothing left. Her stomach was uncomfortably full and she leaned back against the pillows. The doctor had given her more pain killers and her head was floating. 

“I’m tired.” Her head rolled to the side and watched him go stiff. She noticed how he would go rigid when she would set her full attention on him. His eyes took on a glassy quality and his mouth dropped open slightly. Her lip twitched and she had to turn away, no one had ever looked at her like that before. Even through the haze of a full belly and drugs she feels the dull edges of his emotions. Could see them playing out in an intricate dance. He really didn’t understand what he was getting himself into. He was so sure of himself. So absolute that she almost believed his conviction. 

She hoped he would make it.

Sakazuki saw something flicker across her face before she turned away. But he could breathe again. Standing up he removed all but one pillow and placed the tray to the side. 

“Then sleep.” he watched her roll over and face away from him. He doubts that she needed his permission but he liked the thought of her listening to him. Settling back into the chair he crossed his arms over his chest and looked out the window. It was only three in the afternoon and while he could still be working Kong had told him to take the next three days off. He said he wanted him to get settled and to get to know Ume. He didn’t put up much of an argument. He wouldn’t have been able to think about anything else but his fiance anyways. 

Though now he isn’t sure what to do. She is fast asleep and even before that she didn’t seem inclined to speak. He thinks he should leave but a pit opens in his stomach when he thinks about it. All he wanted to do was look at her.

So he would do just that.

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Share this Burden Chapter Two

Chapter Two: Need to Leave

[Part One] [Part Three] [Part Four] [Part Five]

Everything was warm and comfortable. Her mind was on the edge of unawareness. It was the perfect middle ground where she felt nothing. If she could stay like this forever she would be happy. 

But it appears she is not meant to be happy. 

Something was touching her and it wouldn’t stop. Persistent hands were grabbing at her. She could hear murmuring and she so desperately wanted to be left alone. For a moment she was happy. Ume just wanted to be happy. Attempting to move or bat away the ever touching hands proved useless. Her limbs were sluggish and she felt a spike of nausea. 

“Ma’am it’s alright. You’re safe.” The voice was hushed and sounded feminine. Ume swallowed down the concern this stranger was feeling and cracked open her eyes. The brightness made her flinch.

“Here, you should drink something.” the other woman was smiling gently at her. Her sincerity made Ume’s stomach clench. Her fingers felt stiff as she grabbed the cup. Bringing it to her lips she siped carefully. 

It was water.

Her sips turned to greedy gulps. She could feel it dripping down the corners of her mouth and running down her chin. All too soon the cup was being taken away from her. A soft tut came from the other woman.

“Easy. You’ll get sick if you drink too fast.” it was said with a good natured laugh. Ume had to choke on a dissatisfied snarl as the woman walked away. Trying not to focus on the irritation she instead focused on her surroundings. It appears she is in a hospital. A privacy curtain was wrapped around her little bed. Everything was plain and smelled sterile.

“Oh!” the woman who she assumed was a nurse reappeared. “You must be wondering where you are.” the nurse had a hand on her cheek, embarrassment colored her face. “You’re in the main hospital on Marine Ford.” Ume looked at the woman blankley. She knew she had been rescued by Marines but she hadn’t anticipated being taken to Marine Ford. The nurse was uncomfortable by her lack of response. Discomfort was such a palpable emotion. 

“You must be hungry. Let me go grab you something.” It was a reason to leave. She paused at the curtain. “Oh one more thing. Vice Admiral Akainu was rather insistent on seeing you when you woke up. So you should be expecting a visit from him soon.” she watched the woman scurry away. Ume didn’t know who this Vice Admiral was and she wasn’t all that interested in finding out. She needed to leave. She was on Marine Ford and she needed to leave. 

Getting up made her head swim and she could feel her arms shaking. Trying to swing her legs over the bed made her stomach roll. The floor was cool against her bare feet and she needed a moment. Her breathing was heavy and her body wanted her to lay back down. 

But she couldn’t.

Her gaze traveled down towards her right hand. Her stomach rolled again at the fact that she needed to pull out the IV. Her hand was shaking as she slowly began pulling it out. It was nauseating and she felt bile rising up her throat. Blood wells up from the puncture wound and drips on the floor as she stumbles towards the curtain. Pulling it back slowly she peeks out. Her eyes were a bit unfocused as she notes that besides her there is only one other patient in the room.

He seemed to be sleeping. His breathing looked even and his body was wrapped with thick bandages. Ume would have left but she noticed a neat pile of clothes resting on the table next to him. Looking down at herself and the simple white hospital gown she was wearing she knew she couldn’t leave like this. She wasn’t sorry when she clumsily slipped on this man's clothes. The uniform hung loosely from her frame and the shoes were two sizes too big. 

Limping down the hallway she kept her head down. She hoped the cap she wore obscured her face enough and that she wouldn’t trip. It was hard enough to walk and she didn’t want to make it worse. The halls were mostly empty and she held her breath as she took her first step outside. Slinking into an alleyway she leaned against the cool stone. Breathing heavily she used the wall to support herself as she slunk along the dark alleys. The sun was barely peeking out over the horizon and she wanted to use the darkness to put distance between her and the hospital.

Ume didn’t know where she was going. Everything was blurring together and when did the streets become so full?

Where did all these people come from?

How did she not notice all of the noise?

Her head was swimming and the sun was shining so brightly that it made her eyes hurt. Her mouth was dry and she knew she looked like a mess but she needed to get to the docks. Swaying from the wall she stumbled into someone. Wincing at the stab of annoyance she forced herself to focus on the person she had bumped into.

A cautious woman was staring her down. Two little kids clung to her skirt and she could feel that they were on the verge of crying. 

Why were they going to cry? 

Why couldn’t she see why they were going to cry?

“I’m sorry ma’am.” Ume muttered as the woman let out a huff. Her mouth felt like it was full of cotton. This woman was going to leave and she was going to let her but she needed directions. “Wait.” she called out, her hand extended limply. “Could you tell me where the docks are?” Sweat beaded along her forehead and it was running down her spine. Her muscles felt like they were seizing as she waited. The woman hesitated, she didn’t want to talk to Ume. But a sliver of pity weaved its way through this lady’s annoyance.

“Go straight until you get to an intersection, go right and you’ll see the sign.” Ume gave a small nod of thanks and jolted forward. Staggering down the road she felt shoulders hitting her and irritation buzzed along her thoughts. Ignoring it felt easier than usual. Whatever drugs she was given kept her mind in a bizarre fog. She could only distinguish so much and she was both thankful and not for that. 

Swallowing thickly she pushed herself forward. She needed to get on a ship. She would get on a ship. Somehow she would hitch a ride on another one and keep going. She would keep going until she found a quiet island. A small, silent, and peaceful island that she would never leave. She would never leave and she would live out the rest of her days in silence. 

Blissful beautiful silence.

Turning right at the intersection she moved her legs faster. It was the middle of the day, it was so busy, she needed to get to the docks now. 

A large sign with dark painted letters that spelled DOCKS came into view just as a figure emerged from an alley. Her feet stumbled along the cobblestone as she almost pitched forward. Garp was staring her down, his eyebrow twitched as he lazily took a step forward. Her heart was in her stomach as she turned sharply only to ram straight into someone’s chest. Glazed eyes looked up at Sengoku as he placed a steady hand on her shoulder. Ume could feel that Garp was behind her. She was caged in.

“Hey Kid.”

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Share this Burden Chapter Three

Chapter Three: Resolute

[Part One] [Part Two] [Part Four] [Part Five]

Sakazuki was nervous as he marched down the hospital hallways. It’s been four days since he handed the woman over to the doctor and he felt on edge the entire time. It felt like he was losing time and his mind. He interacted with her once and that was being rather generous with the term interact. Sakazuki should not be this invested. 

But he could not stop thinking about that singular moment. He tried not to but her serene face bullied its way into his thoughts. Her eyes haunted him.

It was infuriating. 

He ground his teeth together as the air around him began to shimmer. He could feel heat rolling off his shoulders as he gripped the curtain that surrounded her bed. The smell of burning polyester filled his nose as he ripped the curtain back. Small metal rings rained down on him. It sounded ungodly loud in the quiet ward. The ruined fabric fluttered to the ground and for a moment his frustration was gone. He didn’t mean to do that. Yet the guilt and embarrassment vanished as soon as it surfaced. 

The bed was empty.

She was gone.

“Oh Vice Admiral Sir, hello.” His blood boiled as he turned towards the nurse. Her face paled as he leaned down. He watched sweat bead down her forehead. She was holding a food tray, soup spilling over as she shook.

“Where. Is. She.” The nurse’s eyes glazed over with moisture as she fumbled over her words.

“She should be…” Her voice came out choked as she shifted to look around him. Her eyes widened as she took in the empty bed. “I don’t know.” Her tone was quiet, strained. His jaw twitched as he stormed past the trembling woman.

Sakazuki should go back to headquarters. He didn’t need to find her. She didn’t actually mean anything to him. She wasn’t his problem. He had work he needed to be doing. Yet when he exited the hospital he didn’t go back to his office. Instead he scanned every face that he could see. Stopped anyone that didn’t immediately leap from his path to question them. 

But no one had seen her and he was growing irritated. She was heavily injured! How could no one have noticed her? He needed to find her and he could feel desperation starting to creep in.

“Vice Admiral Akainu Sir!” Sakazuki whirled around, his teeth barred as the approaching officer seemed to stumble.

“What!” he snarled as the younger man straightened his back. His hand flew up in a salute. He had the same look the nurse did at the hospital. 

“Fleet Admiral Kong requests your presence immediately, Sir!” He glared down at the soldier. He didn’t have time to go see Kong. He didn’t have the patience to humor the old man but he couldn’t ignore him. Seething he made his way to Marine Headquarters. He hoped she hadn’t made it off of Marine Ford. He hoped that she wasn’t collapsed in some alley.

His knuckles rapped on Kong’s door as he waited. He could hear voices on the other side. They were hushed and he did not have time for this.

“Enter.”

Swinging open the door he felt the air leave his lungs. He felt his irritation melt yet simultaneously grow worse as he was met with the very person he was looking for. She was sat between Vice Admiral Garp and Admiral Sengoku. The two men were caging her in, their legs crossed in a way that made it impossible for her to get up. Her expression was melancholic and disoriented as she gazed at the ground. He had to resist the urge that screamed at him to grab her. Sakazuki had the most detestable desire for her to just look at him again.

“Take a seat Sakazuki.” He was only half listening as he took a seat. His gaze was torn between taking her all in and acknowledging his superior. The air in the room was tense.

“Girl what were you thinking?” Garp threw up his arms as Senkogu pinched the bridge of his nose. The woman wasn’t reacting, not really. 

“There is no reason to yell but he does have a point. Ume what were you thinking?” The Admiral spoke quietly as he placed a hand on her shoulder. Two things went through his mind. The first one was a snarling thought of ‘Don’t touch her!’ and the second one was ‘Her name is Ume?’.

“I’m sorry.” Ume muttered as she glanced at the two men. Her head looked heavy as her dark hair acted as a curtain over her face. Garp went to say something but Senkogu spoke first.

“We know but why didn’t you stay put? We left you on Sirona for your own good.” Sakazuki zoned out the men talking and focused solely on Ume. He didn’t really notice the night he found her but she is small, unnaturally so. Her face was gaunt and she looked like a stiff breeze would break her. Her fingers were intertwined and laying limply in her lap. The nails were chipped and her wrists were wrapped in bandages. Bruises peeked out from under the thick gauze.

“What now?” The sound of her voice brought him back to the moment. She was looking up now. Though she still wasn’t looking at him.

“Well now we find another island. One that’s more isolated. How does that sound?” Ume was nodding eagerly. A flicker of contentment crossed her face. It made her look a little bit more alive. 

She was going to leave? They were going to hide her away and he would never see her again. He felt his jaw twitch. It would be for the best if she left. He hasn’t been able to focus since finding her. She doesn’t mean anything to him. She didn’t need to be here. But then why did he hate it so much?

“No.” his voice came out more confident and demanding than he was feeling. All eyes snapped to him and finally, finally she was looking at him. Her eyes were wide, it was like looking at the night sky. She was confused. He was too.

“Sakazuki?” He heard Kong question him but he didn’t take his eyes off Ume.

“I’m being promoted soon.” holding her gaze he swallowed thickly. He felt his words getting caught in his throat. He knew what he wanted to say but she was looking at him and it all died on his tongue.

“What does that have to do with anything?” Garp snapped as he leaned forward, his body acting as a shield over her. Sakazuki turned to Kong.

“Tell me Fleet Admiral how has my up and coming promotion been received?” his finger tapped along the arm of the chair. He knows how he is perceived by the public and his fellow Marines. He does his job and he does it right but not everyone sees it that way. He heard his superior let out a hum.

“It hasn’t been the most positive.” He could feel Garp glaring at him. 

“I know I’m not the most approachable.” He said his words slowly, ignoring the snort from the Vice Admiral.

“And what? You think Ume not leaving will make you more approachable? How did you come to that conclusion?” Garp rolled his eyes, he was still shielding her from him.

“Well the Marines have been trying to promote a more family oriented image.” He let his words sink in. The tension in the room had begun to dissipate and now it was ramping up again. It was pulled taught, ready to snap.

Sengoku was the one to break it first.

“Are you telling us that you want to marry her?” he was looking at Sakazuki like he had grown a second head.

“Yes.” Garp started yelling. He was yelling at him, at Kong, at the ceiling. Sengoku was trying to calm down his friend and Kong was pinching the bridge of his nose. His eyes were initially following the raving Vice Admiral but then he caught Ume staring at him. She was peering around the older man. Her gaze was hollow, her expression blank. It was unsettling how her eyes bore into his.

“Garp, Sengoku, take her outside. Take a minute and calm down.” Kong barked. Sengoku grabbed Garp, dragging his flailing form across the room. The Vice Admiral was still shouting as he was shoved out the door. Ume followed after them her eyes caught his one last time before she closed the door softly behind them.

The Fleet Admiral leaned back in his chair and sighed. 

“You have no idea what you're asking.” he looked tired. His hand ran down his face and seemed to sink further into his chair. Sakazuki grit his teeth. His superior sounded so sure, sounded so absolute that he had no idea what he wanted. 

“Yes I do.” his jaw ground together as he tried not to spit out the words. 

“No you don’t. And do you know why you don’t?” The way Kong was talking made it sound like he was making a mistake. And maybe he was. This could be a mistake but he didn’t care. He just didn’t want her to leave and he had no other options to keep her. A folder was suddenly being tossed at him.

“Read it and then maybe you can be rational.” his lip twitched as he glared down at the paper. Huffing he opened it, a picture of Ume greeted him. Or well a younger version. Cheeks round with baby fat and eyes wide. She wasn’t smiling, she wasn’t emoting at all actually. Her small face was blank but looked just a bit more alive than she did now. His gaze trailed down the page.

Name: Ume

Note: Surname unknown

Date of birth: Unknown

Note: estimated date of birth July 17th

Age: Estimated age four years old.

Home Island: Redacted 

He frowned as he continued reading. He didn’t understand why Kong had shown this to him. Didn’t understand why this would make him think what he was doing was a mistake. But as he got further down something struck him. Haki kept coming up, highlighted in areas and whoever had written this had pressed the pen in hard when underlining the word mutated. There were mentions of high levels of empathy and something about a parasite. That made something roll in his stomach. Yet what made him suck in a sharp breath was the jagged notes on potential infection of other hosts. The hand writing becomes ineligible past that point. But he was able to make out the need for a partner. Closing the folder he let out a low sigh. Kong was looking at him expectantly.

“That was-” he trailed off, mulling over his next word. “Interesting.” he doesn’t feel like that is the right word but it’s the best his mind can supply. 

“Interesting indeed.” Kong grabbed the folder, skimming through the contents. “She’s a good kid and now you have an understanding of why you shouldn’t do this.” For a moment, a fleeting speck of a moment he agreed. The Fleet Admiral was still speaking but Sakazuki was only half listening. After reading all of that he was certain that he should retract his statement. Parasite, mutation, and infection swirled around in his mind. He genuinely had no idea what he was getting into. Though as his superior continued to speak, continued to tell him that he shouldn’t do this. Couldn't do this the more he pushed his discomforts down.

He was going to do this.

“Well?” He almost jumped at the sound of Garp’s voice. He hadn’t realized they had come back in. His eyes darted upwards. Sengoku had a hand on Ume's shoulder, her gaze flickered between him and Kong. 

Kong opened his mouth, so sure that he had changed his mind. But Sakazuki beat him to it.

“Well I need to improve my image and she needs a partner.” Her full attention was on him now. Her eyes almost coming to life as she stared at him, her mouth partially open. Her expression looked close to awed. He knew the other three men were staring at him, talking even but he didn’t care. His heart was in his throat and his chest was tight. He wanted this and he wasn’t going to back down. There was no second guessing. 

This was final.

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Share this Burden Chapter Seven

Chapter Seven: Take me home

[Part Four] [Part Five] [Part Six] [Part Eight]

Sakazuki both wanted to rush home and never leave HeadQuarters. He felt like he was submerged underwater. He didn’t know which was up and the folder under his arm wasn’t helping.

He was getting married today and the little box in his pocket made it impossible to break the surface.

Kong had cornered him in his office and asked him one last time if he was sure. Told him once again that he wouldn’t be able to take it back, said he still had time to call this whole thing off. That he truly didn’t know what he was doing. He had snapped at the Fleet Admiral, he told him that he understood what he was doing. He knew what he wanted and that this was final. Initially Sakazuki was going to work the full day because even if he wouldn’t admit it he was nervous. But after that little conversation he left early. Once this was all over no one would question him. No one would second guess him.

His jaw was tense as he went to unlock the door. There was no resistance when he turned the key. No subtle sound of the lock shifting. The handle started to give under his palm as he tore the door open. 

The living room was empty. The kitchen was silent. 

None of this was unusual. Ume was quiet, hardly making any noise. Swallowing down the need to call out for her he made his way to the garden. She liked it there, she should be there. But when he slid open the doors it was empty. 

“Ume!” He gave in and called out. He didn’t expect a verbal answer but he expected something. 

“UME!” ripping the guest door off its hinges was unnecessary, it was beyond uncalled for but he didn’t care. He hoped that he would find a startled Ume and then he could apologize and everything would be fine. But he didn’t. The room was empty.

She was gone.

His heart stopped.

He had to find her.

He will find her.

This was a bad idea. Oh this was such a bad idea. Ume teetered on the knife’s edge of panicking. There was so much going on. So many people feeling so much and it was all just slamming into her unhindered. Regret swirls heavily in her gut as she tries to make herself as small as possible.

Everything is just so loud.

The chatter of passing conversations mix together with the words that never make it out. She wants to go home. Wants to curl up under Sakazuki’s cherry blossom tree and ignore the rest of the world. But when she tries to turn around and make sense of everything she can’t. She doesn’t know where she is and the pressing crowd just made it worse. 

Ume felt like she couldn’t breathe. It was all too much. She could feel her vision blurring as she bumped into people. Annoyance lanced across her mind as she unceremoniously pushed people out of her way. Someone was hissing a complaint at her while someone else was muttering under their breath. 

Something brushed against her, she thinks it was a hand. Whatever it was, it made her spine go rigid. Anger boils over her thoughts and she feels like a knife was being slipped through her ribs. Her own fear bleeds into her lungs as she throws herself away from that anger. Stumbling over her own legs she slams into a wall. The rough texture of stone rubs against her cheek. It stings but is grounding. Focusing on the prickling pain she cloisters herself away in the dim alley. Sinking to the ground she buries her face into her knees. Her hands come up to cover her ears as she tries to breathe.

In.

One, two, three.

Out.

In.

One, two, three.

Out.

Letting her eyes slip closed she rocks back and forth just trying to breathe. 

Sakazuki was trying to be calm. He really was but it felt like he was slowly being unraveled the longer he couldn’t find her. People were practically jumping out of his way as he made his way down the streets. His eyes roamed everywhere, checking every face. He knew the air around him was shimmering and becoming stifling. He could see people pulling at their collars and casting nervous glances at him. 

He knew he was being careless but he couldn’t bring himself to care. Sakazuki needed to find Ume. Anger and worry swirled around in his gut and he felt like his skin was too tight. He hated that she left, it made him absolutely furious but that was being blanketed by the overwhelming concern he felt. He didn’t know where she was or what could possibly be happening to her. 

He was worried. 

Ume was curled in on herself when she felt something familiar. It slithered along her fraying thoughts and made her shoulders untense. Exhaling slowly she lifted her head a little and immediately she tensed up again. Sakazuki was kneeling above her. Even with him leaning down he towered over her. His expression unreadable but nothing was hidden. The mix of displeasure, worry, and joy coated her mind like a balm. 

For a moment they just stared at each other. Then a dam broke inside of Ume.

She felt her lower lip tremble and tears pricked at the edges of her eyes. In a moment of pure impulsiveness she threw herself at him. Her arms wrapped around his waist and she buried face into his stomach. His surprise was sharp and it stung but she didn’t care. He was familiar and grounding and she just wanted to go home.

Sakazuki blinked owlishly down at Ume. She was trembling as she tried desperately to get closer to him. He didn’t know how he would find her but cowering in an alley had not crossed his mind. Any anger he had vanished as he bundled her into his arms. 

“Take me home.” her words were muffled against his uniform as her hands clutched at the fabric. He nodded even though she wasn’t looking. Adjusting her as he stood he held her close as he walked down the street. He couldn’t ignore the warm spread of happiness that bloomed in his chest. She wanted to go home.

And he was going to take her home.

[neonpaperlanterns]

Share this Burden

Chapter Six

Chapter Six: Stepped Out

[Part Four] [Part Five] [Part Seven] [Part Eight]

(A/N: Sorry this update took so long. I was having trouble with this chapter and am still feeling a bit unsure about it. But I wanted to post it as see what others thought. It's also a lot shorter than I wanted it to be.)

Ume wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when living with Sakazuki. She had assumed he would be an ever present looming shadow and he was. When he was home at least. He was very work oriented and stayed at Headquarters for hours. He didn’t come home happy though. She could feel him prowling down the street like an impending storm. His expression betrayed nothing but she knew. And it made her head throb. 

The first night had been interesting. It had been quiet, not uncomfortably so but still silent. But when it had gotten later and she was preparing for bed things had gotten tense.

“What are you doing?” His voice had come out as a hiss but she could feel the confusion rumbling around in his mind. She had paused in getting the guest bed ready. Ume was tired, she just wanted to sleep.

“Going to bed?” she tilted her head in question as he huffed. Heat rolled off of him in waves that made sweat bead along her spine. “Where do you expect me to sleep?” she sighed and leaned against the bed frame. 

“You will sleep in my-” his mouth suddenly snapped shut and the temperature dropped. “Nevermind.” His face was heated as he stormed out.

Sakazuki had left her after that and she had collapsed onto the mattress. The sun had barely risen when she was being awoken. He demanded that she eat breakfast with him. It was rather overwhelming. She could feel how much he wanted to take care of her. He meticulously counted out her medication and even helped her with the stretches laid out in the doctor's pamphlet. It would have been nice if he wasn’t so intense about everything.

When he came home that evening she got to learn that he was a surprisingly opinionated eater. Ume had made dinner and it had gone over technically fine. She knew that he liked that she did this for him. Knew that when he had walked in the door he was filled with a bubbling domestic bliss. But he gently informed her of everything she did incorrectly. The rice was over cooked, it had too much salt, and the fish hadn’t been made right. He thinks he is being helpful. 

He isn’t.

Yet she nodded along and when he was done she gathered the plates and threw it all away. 

Ume let out a sigh as she settled on the porch. It was still early, barely past ten but she already felt exhausted. She supposed that was to be expected. She can’t remember the last time she slept. Let alone in an actual bed. She wished she hadn’t been woken up before the sun had risen. It would have been nice to finally wake up naturally for once. But she guesses she can’t blame Sakazuki. 

He was trying to prove something after all.

Leaning back slightly she trailed her gaze around the garden. It really was perfectly maintained. The space was beautiful and a breath of fresh air from the suffocating blankness of the inside. She would have loved to have something like this back on Sirona. 

A frown pulled at her lips. She missed her home. It had been a small one story house in the middle of nowhere. The nearest village had been at least a half a day's walk. It had been wonderful. It had been simple. It had been hers and she missed it. A dull ache began to form in her chest. Suddenly she didn’t feel like sitting on the porch. Didn’t want to be here. She could feel an itch begin under her skin, it spread until she was pacing. The white walls of Sakazuki’s home mocked her. 

Ume needed to leave.

She wasn’t supposed to though. But she needed to. Just for a little bit. Her eyes darted towards the door. 

Really she shouldn’t. Sakazuki didn’t want her leaving, not without him at least. It would be overwhelming. The drugs the doctor had administered her had worn off by now. Nothing would be subdued. There would be no barrier between her and everyone else. Yet the itching was getting worse. 

The noise the lock made was deafening in the silent home. It sounded almost liberating. She should put the lock back. Should deal with just sitting in the garden. That should be enough but it wasn’t. Not right now. Ume wasn’t really sure what Sakazuki would do if he decided to come home early. He was already a maelstrom of unsaid emotion. She didn’t think he would hurt her, that would ruin everything that he thought he wanted. But she knew that silence could be just as painful as a hand.

The handle is cool under her palm and the door is silent when it opens. Sunlight filters in and she can see people walking down the street. She can feel the faintest trickling of their feelings. Someone is upset, another is bored. One is content, happy to be as they are. Taking a deep breath she carefully shuts the door behind her.

Ume really shouldn’t be doing this. 

[neonpaperlanterns]

Share this Burden Chapter Eight

Chapter Eight: Today

[Part Five] [Part Six] [Part Seven] [Part Nine]

(A/n: Things have been oddly domestic so far. They aren't getting along but things are okay.... I can't wait to ruin that)

Ume knew he wanted to say something. He wasn’t mad at her not anymore but an inkling of frustration still lingered. She didn’t want to deal with it though. She was exhausted and feeling strung out. 

He hadn’t said anything as he set her down. She hoped that his indecision would carry on for the rest of the day. Sluggishly she made her way down the hallway. The need to lay down was borderline unbearable. Though when she came upon her room she stopped. The door was leaning haphazardly against the wall. Splinters of wood littered the ground and the doorframe was in shambles.

Shame and embarrassment fizzled behind her. Turning she looked up at Sakazuki. He wasn’t looking at her, instead he was very invested in the wall. Ume opened her mouth to say something but she snapped it shut. He hasn’t said anything about her venture outside so she wouldn’t ask about any of this.

“You should get some rest.” He still wasn’t looking at her as he scratched along his neck. Nodding along with his suggestion she stepped over the mess.

“I’ll wake you in a few hours.” She let out an acknowledging hum as she buried herself under the blanket. Curling around a pillow, she focused on Sakazuki’s emotions. Pushing out anything else she honed in on him. Picking apart his apprehension and stilted eagerness until it all swirled into a mass of muddled hues as she fell asleep.

Sakazuki stood in the doorway for a moment longer. Watching as her breathing slowly evened out. He had wanted to say more, ask her why she left but it hadn’t felt worth it. Not right now anyway. His gaze drifted towards the door leaning against the wall. The cracked wood glaring at him as he ran his hand down his face.

People say that one’s wedding day is supposed to be the happiest day of their life. And even if he didn’t feel as if that were entirely true he had no intention of ruining today. He refused to give anyone room to needle his decisions. He wanted this. He wanted her. After today was done she would be his and there would be no room for doubt. 

Letting out a low sigh he looked at Ume one more time. Her form was mostly hidden under the blanket, only the top of her head poked out. She was unnaturally still, even when unconscious her body refused to relax. He wanted to do something to put her at ease but he couldn't. He didn't know what he would even do and he needed to get ready. It was the most important day of their lives after all.

A gentle hand ran over her back as Ume slowly cracked her eyes open. Blinking against the soft light it took a moment for her vision to come into focus. Tilting her head slightly she stared at Sakazuki. She can’t remember the last time she was woken up so kindly.

“It’s time to get up.” He removed his hand and lifted up from the bed. Sitting up herself she rubbed at her eyes. Sleep still clawed at her, she wanted nothing more than to slip back under the covers. 

“Come on, you need to get ready.” What was she getting ready for? Her confusion must have played across her face because he sighed as he picked her up. 

“We’re getting married today.” He said it so dully, like he was talking about the weather. It was funny really, his expression so at war with how he was actually feeling.

“Oh.” Her response affected him more than he was willing to show. His desire for her to want this made his jaw twitch. 

“We leave in an hour and half.” She had upset him with her lackluster response. She sighed as he slammed the bathroom door shut. Maybe she should have tried to muster up something more? Assured him in some way no matter how shallow it would have been. She knew that he didn’t get why she was doing this. It wasn’t clear but she thinks a part of him was convinced she wanted this in a similar way that he did. He didn’t understand and she hadn’t tried to explain it. Honestly she didn’t truly want to tell him that this was a marriage of convenience. At least for her it was. But when this was all over she wasn’t going to have much of a choice. She really didn’t know how he would take it when it was all said and done. 

Maybe he would come to regret his rash decision making and unwillingness to listen to reason. Or maybe he would double down and still tell himself he wanted her.

Rubbing at her temple and the slowly building headache she went to turn on the shower. Steam slowly filled the room as she stood under the water. Letting herself get lost in thought as she scrubbed at her skin. There were things she never thought she would have again after she had been taken. 

Being able to see the sun.

Eating.

Sleeping without fear.

Though the one want that took the longest to leave her was being clean. The simple joy of washing the day away was something she had ached for. It was a thought that plagued her as she laid on that cold blood streaked floor. 

Ume’s eyes slipped closed as she woefully turned the water off. She wanted to stay in this humid wonderful bubble forever. She had to tell herself that this wouldn’t be the last time. 

Stepping out of the shower she took note that there was a black bag hanging on the back of the door. She reached for the zipper as she dried off. Dragging the tab down revealing more and more flowing white fabric. Slipping it off fully she took in the pristine kimono. It was soft to the touch and had intricately embroidered flowers dancing along the edges.

It was beautiful.

Ume almost didn’t want to put it on. She didn’t want to ruin it but she could feel Sakazuki pacing. He was getting antsy, his nerves buzzed through the house. Carefully she got dressed. Layering and smoothing the fabric as she went. 

She dared to look at the mirror when she finished. Her dark hair was in stark contrast with the white. It brought attention to her face and how pale she was. Color was gradually returning to her complexion and her cheeks were slowly filling out but a picture of a perfect bride she did not make. She knew her eyes still looked sunken and while the bruising under them was lessening it was still there. She looked more akin to a corpse than a blushing bride.

Ume tried not to think too hard about that. Instead she focused on the only color in her ensemble. The deep crimson obi was the only thing preventing her from being entirely monochrome. 

She liked it. 

Red meant life. It told her that she was alive.

Taking a deep breath she exited the bathroom. Sakazuki was waiting in the hallway, his back against the wall as his fingers drummed along his forearm. His gaze roamed over her. He wanted to touch her. It was his strongest thought. She watched as his hand raised like he was actually going to but it dropped back into place.

“Come sit down.” Tilting her head at him curiously she did as she was told. Sitting down in one of the kitchen chairs she felt small as he towered above her.

He was apprehensive again and she didn’t understand why. 

“Is-” Ume stopped as she felt his hands in her hair. They were careful as he twisted her hair up. She felt a few loose strands fall on the side of her face as something was slipped into place. His thumb rubbed along her neck as he rounded the chair. Contentment settled over her as he grabbed her hand. Ushering her out of the seat his fingers intertwined with hers.

Sakazuki’s hand was massive and encompassed her much smaller one. She let him pull her along as she tightened her grip. He was warm, borderline uncomfortably so. It made her palm clammy but she didn’t want to let go.

Ume can’t remember the last time she held someone's hand. She hoped rather childishly that when today came to a close he might still want to hold her hand.