[ He isn't even thinking of the possibility of having attracted anyone else — what are they going to do? They can just fly away again if anyone approaches — he's just getting his wind back. Relieved that he can withstand a fair bit of punishment.
Floating back on up to sit beside Sanji after another moment, feeling a whole lot less dignified now, but it's fine. Sanji isn't drawing attention to his folly, so neither will he. He joins him, aimlessly kicking his legs a little, hands beside him and resting atop the branch.
What was that about fighting, and Mark worries at his lip a little, looking away for a second. Back to Sanji.
Unfortunately he isn't going to get his wish quite yet, because Mark just opens up with, ] Sanji, have you ever killed someone?
[ Totally asking for a friend, right? And it's probably offensive on some level to ask his pirate friend that, he's realizing just now, but... there it is. Has Sanji ever killed someone, because Mark totally hasn't, noooo. ]
[What's offensive is pinning a crime he hasn't committed on him. Mark isn't doing that. While the question is unexpected, it's devoid of accusation that Sanji takes a brief moment to consider the answer he once gave Minami without a noticeable shift in his expression.]
Yeah, probably. [At the very least, he's left behind lasting damage.] Why do you ask?
[Mark seems restless. Has there been a death in his life . . . ?]
... I don't know how to deal with it. [ The words just come spilling out, voice strained. Mark turns to stare ahead of him, at nothing. ] I shouldn't be able to— I shouldn't. Kill people. I shouldn't want to, I shouldn't be capable of—
[ He whips his gaze to look back at Sanji, desperation in his eyes. Like he can fix this, somehow. If he can just tell Mark how to deal then it'll all go away, somehow. ]
I'm terrified. What if it happens again? How... How do you stop yourself from killing again? I can't— I can't be that person...
[It's like a dam has broken. Sanji's brow pinches at the look in Mark's eyes, furrowing in a mixture of shock and apprehension while the rest of his body arrests in place from the dawning realization of what the latter has done. Mark, want to take a life? The guy who couldn't stomach the deaths forced onto him by another party—with his own two hands?
Sanji lifts his head, straightening from his forward hunch to angle himself a little more toward Mark.]
Hey, slow down. [His voice is low, urging Mark to calm and stay present.] What happened? Start with that.
[ Maybe it is better that he's here, in person. Maybe it is better that he can ask Sanji these questions while sitting next to him instead of over the phone. Maybe it's a good thing he just jumped over here, even if rash decision-making hasn't done him any favours recently.
Slow down, and Mark shuts his eyes for a second. Takes a deep breath. Maybe that'll keep him from ending up back where he does not want to be. ]
There was this... guy. [ He really doesn't know how else to describe him. ] There was an accident that he blamed me for, so he wanted revenge. He threatened my mom. I didn't want to hurt him, I tried not to, but my mom... When I saw he hurt her, I just lost it.
[ ... ]
I didn't— I didn't need to go as far as I did. I'd made my point. But I wanted to, so I just kept going. Until I got it out of my system, I guess, except...
[ His grip on the branch tightens, fingers digging into wood, muscles reflexively tensed. His eyes search Sanji's, like he'll have the answer. ]
... I mean, I'd passed the point of no return by then. And I don't— There isn't any wish that can take that back.
[A coward went after someone who was uninvolved to carry out his vendetta, which may or may not be legitimate, and ended up paying for it with his life. Now Mark is here, because he's unable to deal with the repercussions on his own. Is that the gist of it?
What a mess.]
You got angry.
[Sanji meets Mark's desperate gaze with a solemn look. By that stage, it's less about making a point and more about protecting one's own. If the guy's dead, he'll never be able to threaten Mark's mother again. Moreover . . . everyone has a line. Once that's crossed, there's no forgiveness to be had; however, unlike Sanji, who's willing to cave in skulls to protect Nami and Robin, Mark is the type who values all life, so this must be tearing him apart.]
Listen, Mark. The wish was a one-time deal; there's no going back anymore. This is what happens when your emotions get the better of you.
[Even if there were a wish to rewind the clock, that doesn't mean it won't happen again. Sanji knows that Mark knows this, just as they both know what it's like to be swept up in the heat of the moment. But he's going to postpone that for a second to focus on something equally, if not more, important.]
He feels so far away from that now, meek and cowed. Like, Mark knew on some level that he could do a lot of damage, but it was one thing to know and another entirely to actually experience it. Remember that experience. Know that this is what will happen when he lets his emotions get the better of him, like Sanji said.
If his crew is training on different islands... maybe there could be one here he could be useful on, he doesn't know—
He snaps out of his own head at the question, desperate expression switching to something bewildered at first, and then relieved. His grip on the branch relaxes; he brings his hands up to rest in his lap. His shoulders slump. The weight on his chest alleviates. He smiles again, a small thing that could just as easily break, but it's something. ]
She's okay. Her arm got broken pretty bad, so she's in a cast, but... she's okay. She's really tough. And I think she was just happy that I was okay, so... we're okay. We're... going to be okay.
[ The first couple of times he said okay it was probably fine, but by the end of it it's more like he's trying to convince himself. Of course his mom is okay. Is Mark okay? He doesn't know, but maybe if he just says he is he will be — a tactic that has not worked for the past week or two, but maybe this time it will. ]
[Like mother, like son. They're convincing each other that it's okay, putting on a strong face for one another. That's what a loving family should do. It's sweet and says a lot about the kind of people they are.
Having said that, Sanji finds himself unconvinced as he continues to eye Mark. They'll be okay, but what about now? If he really were okay, Mark wouldn't be here. He's relieved, but this and that are separate; his mother is safe, yet a man is dead, and blood of that nature doesn't just wash off like the guts of a fish.]
Now that you know the feeling, don't forget it; otherwise, you might become that person again.
[Fear is a powerful motivator. There's nothing to be done about the past, but the future will languish if something doesn't change. For that to happen, the heart has to remember.]
[ He falls silent again, that hint of a smile evaporating. His mom is doing better, and that's good. Then there's still everything else that's a problem. That vice in his heart returns, brightness in his eyes dimming as his gaze flicks downwards. ]
I don't think I'll ever forget what that felt like. [ He's quiet; reflective; almost awed, in the way that one takes in the scene of the aftermath of a natural disaster. It's not a good thing, but the power behind it is something one has to respect, and he isn't there yet. ] I just remember how... easy it was, to get to that point. As soon as I stopped resisting it, it was like the most natural thing in the world, to be like that...
[ He meets Sanji's eyes again. ]
I really didn't know I had that in me. And now that I do know it's all I can think about. I mean, what happens the next time I get into a fight? Am I just going to go back there? Is this what life is now?
[ It's still so fresh; becoming that person again feels inevitable. ]
[Of course, it was natural. There's nothing unnatural about giving into one's own, unbridled heart whose sole desire is expression. It's only awareness that brings shame of one's conduct in the aftermath, because that's when the concept of right and wrong comes into play.
Still, what a nasty awakening. For someone as caring as he is, the depths of Mark's darker emotions must have come as a shock. Sanji's gaze darts aside in thought. Behind every light is darkness; between his father and now this, Mark seems destined to learn life's lessons the hardest ways imaginable.]
The way I see it, you have two choices. Be the person you are . . . or the person you're proud to be. [To live by instinct or by a code. It's easier said than done, and harder still to strike a balance.] I'm not saying that it'll be easy, but the only one who can make that decision is you.
[Sanji can listen. He can help, even; however, he can't dictate what Mark's life will be from this point onward. Such a power is beyond him. Ultimately, it's up to Mark where he goes.]
[ All he can do for a moment is exhale. Feel his breath leave his body; turn his head to see what Sanji might be looking at, even if it's just more pink canopy. It really is unlike anything he's seen before. It really is beautiful. He really probably could destroy it, if that's the person he actually is.
And it's not the person he wants to be. But to work his way back there... ]
... I think I have to figure out what that feels like again. To be proud. I want to, it's just... [ he runs a hand through his hair, turns back to him. ] It feels so far away now. So, yeah... it's not going to be easy. But I mean, as long as it's possible, right?
[ He kicks his legs through the air a little again, a childish little movement, but when he was a kid he didn't have to worry about this kind of stuff, so. ]
I mean... isn't that part of what you're doing here? I know you didn't make the choice, but training here. That's making you better, right? Proud?
[ It's a nice thought. Not like Mark is going to have a personal island to train on, but knowing something like this exists is kind of a spirit-booster in its own right. ]
[It's just more pink canopy. The petals fall endlessly onto the paved street below, their pigments bathed in the warm rays of the sun beyond the umbrella of trees upon trees. This is an island that reflects the maidenly hearts of its denizens—the same raucous masters from whom Sanji's been learning for the past year.]
Right.
[He refocuses on Mark, glimpsing the small kicks in his periphery. They're a good sign, better than frantic restlessness or miserable stillness.]
I wasn't strong enough. That's why I struck a deal with this island's sovereign. The deadline is two years . . . By then, I'll be a better cook for the captain and the crew.
[He'd been so confident in his abilities, only to be torn down by the reality of his failures. But he refuses to be defined by that, not when he has others counting on him—and it's the same for Mark, who has his mother and his friends.
A stray petal falls on his shoulder. Sanji brushes it off with the sweep of a hand, casting his gaze toward the ground. None of this is new to him, so the reason he brings any of it up is to make a point.]
What I'm saying is that it's possible; however, only you can determine what pride feels like.
[ It's a warm, soft-feeling island. Mark likes it. It's completely antithetical to where he's been, what he's done recently, so it's actually really, really nice to be here, even if he's only here because Sanji can't be with his friends. Maybe this is the island he'll stay on for as long as he's stuck here, just... out of Sanji's way as much as possible, so he doesn't interfere with his training. (Out of everyone's way, so he doesn't have to deal with strangers probably cat calling him while he's at it.)
He watches that petal make its slow, fluttering journey to the ground, brows furrowed. ]
Two years...
[ That's about as long as Mark has had powers, and it feels like a couple of lifetimes have passed already. Even if Sanji has fewer than two years to go at this point, that's still such a long time. Enough to feel almost insurmountable. Two years ago, he couldn't have predicted he'd be where he is now — where is he going to be in two years' time?
He falls silent for a moment longer. ]
I don't think I'm in a place where I can determine that. It feels like it'd be irresponsible of me? [ Looking up now, at all of the pink above them. Soft, and peaceful, and nothing like him, apparently. ] I mean, after what I've done...
[ He isn't a good person. He sighs. ]
I think I'm more like you. [ Which is a hell of a thing to say considering his current self-loathing exercise, but his voice is soft. It's just a statement, free of judgment. ] I can't control myself, so I'm not strong enough either. So I'll have to find some way to get there, like you are here. Only not here, obviously, but... I don't know. There has to be something I can do...
[Mark might not be the person he'd thought himself to be, but that's as good of an answer as any. At the end of the day, a man must take responsibility for his actions above all else. That, Sanji thinks, is the mark of a truly admirable person with a good heart.
What's more jarring, on the other hand, is the likeness Mark claims between them. Sanji stares at him before huffing and turning away to study the tranquil landscape around them, senses on high alert for potential eavesdroppers.]
If it's restraint, you're not going to learn it here. You've got time, so why don't you check out the other islands? I'd steer clear of the marines if I were you, though. There's no telling who knows about us, and I'm not on good standing with the World Government.
[The last thing he wants is to pass off his notoriety onto Mark, who's going through it already. He doesn't personally mind the company, but having Mark hide out all the time will do neither of them favors. Even though it's far from home, this is a crucial period for the latter. Not to mention the lack of stability in terms of lodging here . . .
Sanji blinks, then draws a leg up to plant a foot against the branch and hang an arm over a knee.]
If you need a room for the night, you can use mine at the restaurant.
[ The huff... Did Mark say something wrong? He turns to stare at Sanji quizzically, trying to study him the way he's studying their surroundings, eavesdroppers not even on his mind.
Although his stomach drops at the notion of steering clear of marines. That isn't something he'd thought about — having to kind of, well, be on the run from the law? Even though that's not what he's actually doing, even though he's long since gotten past the point where he was wary of Sanji for such things, it still feels off. It keeps him quiet a moment longer, lost in thought and only coming back to himself when Sanji offers up his room.
He blinks. ]
Uh... Oh, thanks. Yeah. [ He tries for a little smile he doesn't entirely feel. ] Um... I think I should steer clear of just about everybody that isn't you, actually. Just to be safe. Maybe that'll help me with the restraint thing.
[ No more rushing into situations where he'll be in over his head, no going after anyone no matter what... Just because he can visit Sanji's world through AYTO magic doesn't mean he's actually supposed to be here, so maybe it really will be for the best if he just hangs back. From everything. No matter what injustice he thinks he sees going on or what.
But... ]
But don't you need your room? Where are you going to sleep?
[ Please, he can't impose more than he already is. ]
The Baratie's back in the East Blue. I have a private room there. Here, I sleep wherever I can.
[The restaurant (and his bedroom with it) is far, far from this place. By now, Sanji's long grown accustomed to stealing naps and rude awakenings amidst nature. It's out of consideration that he extends this offer, although he sees Mark's point about erring on the side of caution.]
But if you want to stay, that's fine with me. Just don't expect to sleep indoors anytime soon.
[ . . . unless he's interested in crossing-dressing, which Sanji, who's closed his eyes to sharpen his senses, isn't. That makes him wonder, though; tough as the people of this island are, Mark is absurdly powerful. What will happen to them if they decide to jump him? Is that what Mark needs right now? Maybe Sanji should strike another deal with Iva and arrange for accommodations.]
[ Wherever he can... Mark looks around them. Sure, all of the pink looks nice, but roughing it in the wilderness like this? With enemies — are they enemies? — about? It sounds exhausting. He doesn't even consider that that level of adaptability might be part of training; he just turns to peer back at Sanji, like, is he not tired? Does he look tired? Is that why he closed his eyes? Is he missing any signs here...
It helps settle things into perspective for him, at least. Recent troubles aside, Mark has had it relatively easy. At least he has a bedroom back home. ]
How far away is it? I mean... maybe I can use it if I need a place to lay low, or something. I can get out of here pretty fast, at least.
[ and hopefully not get lost when traversing. the ocean, he assumes. which might be a problem for him... ]
[He looks a little tired. A year of training has left him with faint bags under his eyes—nigh imperceptible from a respectable distance—and a jaw that's not as shaven as he'd like, but Sanji has grown used to such inconveniences by now. In any case, he believes Mark when the latter talks about speed: It's been a year, and he still remembers how quickly they'd shot up into the sky, as well as the implications of how much faster Mark could have gone yet.
Opening his eyes, he traces an invisible circle between them on the branch.]
We're in the Grand Line, a strip of ocean that runs across the world like a belt. More precisely, we're in Paradise, which separates the eastern and southern seas. [His finger moves horizontally before tapping above and below the unseen line.] It's a voyage that ordinarily takes weeks, if not months, but you can fly. Just don't cross the continent that stretches perpendicularly to the Grand Line—that's the Red Line. [He draws his finger vertically through the approximate center of the previously indicated circle.] If you see it, treat it as a landmark and take a right.
[He pulls his hand back.]
The Baratie is an ocean-going restaurant, so you can't miss it. Just look for a ship with the figurehead of a fish.
[ Maybe if Mark could properly perceive himself, he'd see the beginnings of that same tiredness on his own face. He hasn't been at it in quite the same was Sanji has, and certainly not for a year, but the mirror could be there.
But he doesn't want to perceive himself, and so, Mark puts all of his attention into the invisible map Sanji is drawing, watching intently, nodding when he's done. ]
Got it. So I guess I want to go... east. [ what direction is that actually in. nevermind. ] I see that continent, I turn the other way. I find the ship with a figurehead of a fish and I tell them I'm a friend of yours, and it should all be good?
[ That sounds a lot easier than he's pretty sure it's actually going to be, and maybe the hesitation in his voice is enough to clue Sanji in that Mark doesn't exactly have faith in himself to not get lost. That, or the way he hastily adds on: ] I mean, I'm really fast, so it still shouldn't take me too long to find. And as long as there aren't any other really pink islands around I can always find you again too, right?
[ He definitely isn't planning on ditching Sanji entirely during the rest of his stay in his world. ]
[He nods. Sanji has no idea exactly how fast Mark is, but he'll take the latter's word for it. As for the Baratie, the damn geezer and cooks back there may or may not have watched Mark's season; if not, there will be some explaining to do. Having said that, Sanji believes in Zeff's judgment . . . and there's nothing the old man can really do to someone who's invincible by few definitions of the word.
Anyway, it's probably going to take some time, which is good, because it'll give Sanji an opportunity or two to approach Iva about Mark. A worrywart like him isn't going to stay away for long, and Sanji's not about to let him run himself ragged in a world that isn't his when Mark's got enough on his plate.]
Right. I can't guarantee that there aren't other islands like this one out there, but this is definitely the pinkest I've ever seen. [Not to mention the terrain's shaped like a heart.] If you can't find the restaurant, just come back here and I'll figure something out.
[ A heart... Mark is definitely going to take note of that whenever he flies up high enough to see the island in full when he goes. It'll make for a good landmark. No matter how bad he screws up navigating Sanji's world, at least he should be able to find his way back to him.
... Though maybe less obnoxiously, next time. So he doesn't draw unwanted attention. Stealth... maybe that's something he can focus on while he's here too... ]
Nah, I'm sure I'll find it. [ He nods, more sure of himself. Smiles in what he thinks is a reassuring manner. ] Even if it takes me a bit... I'll get there.
[ A beat. ]
I'm gonna come back here though, okay? So you know it went alright. Maybe in like... a week or two?
[ How long is he going to end up here... he really should have thought this through, but, oh well. All he can do is make the best of it now, a massive part of which is making sure he keeps things as easy for Sanji as possible. ]
[That smile in tandem with those words don't inspire much confidence. Having said that, Mark is a stubborn guy. Sanji hasn't visited others to know how long it takes to return to one's world, but Mark will definitely find his way back here and there sooner or later.]
Sounds good. You don't have to rush if things are going well, but you can send me a message any time.
[He slides a hand in his pant pocket, feeling for his phone. Even now, its sleek design is a novelty. Whether he's answering Mark or Asa, he's going to have to make sure it's properly muted before he does anything else.
[ not sanji needing to learn to keep his phone on silent, like a normal person
Sure, Mark can send messages; he nods, easy. But he's still gonna come back — it'd be weird to have come to Sanji's world and not visit him again, even if Sanji did actually tell him not to come to begin with—
A blink at his question, mind catching up to him, followed by a moment's pause. Is he hungry?
And then, another nod. ] Yeah, kind of... [ He probably hasn't been eating the greatest after the whole, you know. Reason he wanted to talk in the first place.
Trying to thread the needle between not wanting to impose himself, but also knowing that this very much is Sanji's thing: ] You got something in mind?
[These phones don't just go to sleep like snails do . . . What a pain.
Mark can always eat at the Baratie—Zeff will feed him at no charge or for a day of washing dishes, if nothing else—but it's the principle of the matter. Sanji can't send him on a long-distance journey on an halfway empty stomach, so he hunches forward and plants his feet against the branch, crouching to ready himself for a leap.]
Yeah. First things first: we need to find a duck or two.
[They live all over this forest, he knows. It's time to cook a few and rejuvenate Mark.]
[ Mark gives a curious little tilt of his head as Sanji hunches forward, indicating he's getting ready to do something — and then fully perks up at the mention of ducks. ]
Oh, man. I can't remember the last time I had duck. [ He's leaning forward now too, still sitting since it doesn't take much for him to get back in the air, looking over at Sanji. ] Is it part of your training to find them yourself, or can I help?
[ Respecting boundaries... But also, he knows with Sanji cooking them up, they'll be amazing. ]
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no subject
Floating back on up to sit beside Sanji after another moment, feeling a whole lot less dignified now, but it's fine. Sanji isn't drawing attention to his folly, so neither will he. He joins him, aimlessly kicking his legs a little, hands beside him and resting atop the branch.
What was that about fighting, and Mark worries at his lip a little, looking away for a second. Back to Sanji.
Unfortunately he isn't going to get his wish quite yet, because Mark just opens up with, ] Sanji, have you ever killed someone?
[ Totally asking for a friend, right? And it's probably offensive on some level to ask his pirate friend that, he's realizing just now, but... there it is. Has Sanji ever killed someone, because Mark totally hasn't, noooo. ]
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Yeah, probably. [At the very least, he's left behind lasting damage.] Why do you ask?
[Mark seems restless. Has there been a death in his life . . . ?]
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[ He whips his gaze to look back at Sanji, desperation in his eyes. Like he can fix this, somehow. If he can just tell Mark how to deal then it'll all go away, somehow. ]
I'm terrified. What if it happens again? How... How do you stop yourself from killing again? I can't— I can't be that person...
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Sanji lifts his head, straightening from his forward hunch to angle himself a little more toward Mark.]
Hey, slow down. [His voice is low, urging Mark to calm and stay present.] What happened? Start with that.
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Slow down, and Mark shuts his eyes for a second. Takes a deep breath. Maybe that'll keep him from ending up back where he does not want to be. ]
There was this... guy. [ He really doesn't know how else to describe him. ] There was an accident that he blamed me for, so he wanted revenge. He threatened my mom. I didn't want to hurt him, I tried not to, but my mom... When I saw he hurt her, I just lost it.
[ ... ]
I didn't— I didn't need to go as far as I did. I'd made my point. But I wanted to, so I just kept going. Until I got it out of my system, I guess, except...
[ His grip on the branch tightens, fingers digging into wood, muscles reflexively tensed. His eyes search Sanji's, like he'll have the answer. ]
... I mean, I'd passed the point of no return by then. And I don't— There isn't any wish that can take that back.
no subject
What a mess.]
You got angry.
[Sanji meets Mark's desperate gaze with a solemn look. By that stage, it's less about making a point and more about protecting one's own. If the guy's dead, he'll never be able to threaten Mark's mother again. Moreover . . . everyone has a line. Once that's crossed, there's no forgiveness to be had; however, unlike Sanji, who's willing to cave in skulls to protect Nami and Robin, Mark is the type who values all life, so this must be tearing him apart.]
Listen, Mark. The wish was a one-time deal; there's no going back anymore. This is what happens when your emotions get the better of you.
[Even if there were a wish to rewind the clock, that doesn't mean it won't happen again. Sanji knows that Mark knows this, just as they both know what it's like to be swept up in the heat of the moment. But he's going to postpone that for a second to focus on something equally, if not more, important.]
How's your mom?
no subject
He feels so far away from that now, meek and cowed. Like, Mark knew on some level that he could do a lot of damage, but it was one thing to know and another entirely to actually experience it. Remember that experience. Know that this is what will happen when he lets his emotions get the better of him, like Sanji said.
If his crew is training on different islands... maybe there could be one here he could be useful on, he doesn't know—
He snaps out of his own head at the question, desperate expression switching to something bewildered at first, and then relieved. His grip on the branch relaxes; he brings his hands up to rest in his lap. His shoulders slump. The weight on his chest alleviates. He smiles again, a small thing that could just as easily break, but it's something. ]
She's okay. Her arm got broken pretty bad, so she's in a cast, but... she's okay. She's really tough. And I think she was just happy that I was okay, so... we're okay. We're... going to be okay.
[ The first couple of times he said okay it was probably fine, but by the end of it it's more like he's trying to convince himself. Of course his mom is okay. Is Mark okay? He doesn't know, but maybe if he just says he is he will be — a tactic that has not worked for the past week or two, but maybe this time it will. ]
no subject
[Like mother, like son. They're convincing each other that it's okay, putting on a strong face for one another. That's what a loving family should do. It's sweet and says a lot about the kind of people they are.
Having said that, Sanji finds himself unconvinced as he continues to eye Mark. They'll be okay, but what about now? If he really were okay, Mark wouldn't be here. He's relieved, but this and that are separate; his mother is safe, yet a man is dead, and blood of that nature doesn't just wash off like the guts of a fish.]
Now that you know the feeling, don't forget it; otherwise, you might become that person again.
[Fear is a powerful motivator. There's nothing to be done about the past, but the future will languish if something doesn't change. For that to happen, the heart has to remember.]
no subject
I don't think I'll ever forget what that felt like. [ He's quiet; reflective; almost awed, in the way that one takes in the scene of the aftermath of a natural disaster. It's not a good thing, but the power behind it is something one has to respect, and he isn't there yet. ] I just remember how... easy it was, to get to that point. As soon as I stopped resisting it, it was like the most natural thing in the world, to be like that...
[ He meets Sanji's eyes again. ]
I really didn't know I had that in me. And now that I do know it's all I can think about. I mean, what happens the next time I get into a fight? Am I just going to go back there? Is this what life is now?
[ It's still so fresh; becoming that person again feels inevitable. ]
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Still, what a nasty awakening. For someone as caring as he is, the depths of Mark's darker emotions must have come as a shock. Sanji's gaze darts aside in thought. Behind every light is darkness; between his father and now this, Mark seems destined to learn life's lessons the hardest ways imaginable.]
The way I see it, you have two choices. Be the person you are . . . or the person you're proud to be. [To live by instinct or by a code. It's easier said than done, and harder still to strike a balance.] I'm not saying that it'll be easy, but the only one who can make that decision is you.
[Sanji can listen. He can help, even; however, he can't dictate what Mark's life will be from this point onward. Such a power is beyond him. Ultimately, it's up to Mark where he goes.]
no subject
And it's not the person he wants to be. But to work his way back there... ]
... I think I have to figure out what that feels like again. To be proud. I want to, it's just... [ he runs a hand through his hair, turns back to him. ] It feels so far away now. So, yeah... it's not going to be easy. But I mean, as long as it's possible, right?
[ He kicks his legs through the air a little again, a childish little movement, but when he was a kid he didn't have to worry about this kind of stuff, so. ]
I mean... isn't that part of what you're doing here? I know you didn't make the choice, but training here. That's making you better, right? Proud?
[ It's a nice thought. Not like Mark is going to have a personal island to train on, but knowing something like this exists is kind of a spirit-booster in its own right. ]
no subject
Right.
[He refocuses on Mark, glimpsing the small kicks in his periphery. They're a good sign, better than frantic restlessness or miserable stillness.]
I wasn't strong enough. That's why I struck a deal with this island's sovereign. The deadline is two years . . . By then, I'll be a better cook for the captain and the crew.
[He'd been so confident in his abilities, only to be torn down by the reality of his failures. But he refuses to be defined by that, not when he has others counting on him—and it's the same for Mark, who has his mother and his friends.
A stray petal falls on his shoulder. Sanji brushes it off with the sweep of a hand, casting his gaze toward the ground. None of this is new to him, so the reason he brings any of it up is to make a point.]
What I'm saying is that it's possible; however, only you can determine what pride feels like.
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He watches that petal make its slow, fluttering journey to the ground, brows furrowed. ]
Two years...
[ That's about as long as Mark has had powers, and it feels like a couple of lifetimes have passed already. Even if Sanji has fewer than two years to go at this point, that's still such a long time. Enough to feel almost insurmountable. Two years ago, he couldn't have predicted he'd be where he is now — where is he going to be in two years' time?
He falls silent for a moment longer. ]
I don't think I'm in a place where I can determine that. It feels like it'd be irresponsible of me? [ Looking up now, at all of the pink above them. Soft, and peaceful, and nothing like him, apparently. ] I mean, after what I've done...
[ He isn't a good person. He sighs. ]
I think I'm more like you. [ Which is a hell of a thing to say considering his current self-loathing exercise, but his voice is soft. It's just a statement, free of judgment. ] I can't control myself, so I'm not strong enough either. So I'll have to find some way to get there, like you are here. Only not here, obviously, but... I don't know. There has to be something I can do...
[ He's fucked if there isn't, he's pretty sure. ]
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What's more jarring, on the other hand, is the likeness Mark claims between them. Sanji stares at him before huffing and turning away to study the tranquil landscape around them, senses on high alert for potential eavesdroppers.]
If it's restraint, you're not going to learn it here. You've got time, so why don't you check out the other islands? I'd steer clear of the marines if I were you, though. There's no telling who knows about us, and I'm not on good standing with the World Government.
[The last thing he wants is to pass off his notoriety onto Mark, who's going through it already. He doesn't personally mind the company, but having Mark hide out all the time will do neither of them favors. Even though it's far from home, this is a crucial period for the latter. Not to mention the lack of stability in terms of lodging here . . .
Sanji blinks, then draws a leg up to plant a foot against the branch and hang an arm over a knee.]
If you need a room for the night, you can use mine at the restaurant.
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Although his stomach drops at the notion of steering clear of marines. That isn't something he'd thought about — having to kind of, well, be on the run from the law? Even though that's not what he's actually doing, even though he's long since gotten past the point where he was wary of Sanji for such things, it still feels off. It keeps him quiet a moment longer, lost in thought and only coming back to himself when Sanji offers up his room.
He blinks. ]
Uh... Oh, thanks. Yeah. [ He tries for a little smile he doesn't entirely feel. ] Um... I think I should steer clear of just about everybody that isn't you, actually. Just to be safe. Maybe that'll help me with the restraint thing.
[ No more rushing into situations where he'll be in over his head, no going after anyone no matter what... Just because he can visit Sanji's world through AYTO magic doesn't mean he's actually supposed to be here, so maybe it really will be for the best if he just hangs back. From everything. No matter what injustice he thinks he sees going on or what.
But... ]
But don't you need your room? Where are you going to sleep?
[ Please, he can't impose more than he already is. ]
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[The restaurant (and his bedroom with it) is far, far from this place. By now, Sanji's long grown accustomed to stealing naps and rude awakenings amidst nature. It's out of consideration that he extends this offer, although he sees Mark's point about erring on the side of caution.]
But if you want to stay, that's fine with me. Just don't expect to sleep indoors anytime soon.
[ . . . unless he's interested in crossing-dressing, which Sanji, who's closed his eyes to sharpen his senses, isn't. That makes him wonder, though; tough as the people of this island are, Mark is absurdly powerful. What will happen to them if they decide to jump him? Is that what Mark needs right now? Maybe Sanji should strike another deal with Iva and arrange for accommodations.]
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It helps settle things into perspective for him, at least. Recent troubles aside, Mark has had it relatively easy. At least he has a bedroom back home. ]
How far away is it? I mean... maybe I can use it if I need a place to lay low, or something. I can get out of here pretty fast, at least.
[ and hopefully not get lost when traversing. the ocean, he assumes. which might be a problem for him... ]
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Opening his eyes, he traces an invisible circle between them on the branch.]
We're in the Grand Line, a strip of ocean that runs across the world like a belt. More precisely, we're in Paradise, which separates the eastern and southern seas. [His finger moves horizontally before tapping above and below the unseen line.] It's a voyage that ordinarily takes weeks, if not months, but you can fly. Just don't cross the continent that stretches perpendicularly to the Grand Line—that's the Red Line. [He draws his finger vertically through the approximate center of the previously indicated circle.] If you see it, treat it as a landmark and take a right.
[He pulls his hand back.]
The Baratie is an ocean-going restaurant, so you can't miss it. Just look for a ship with the figurehead of a fish.
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But he doesn't want to perceive himself, and so, Mark puts all of his attention into the invisible map Sanji is drawing, watching intently, nodding when he's done. ]
Got it. So I guess I want to go... east. [ what direction is that actually in. nevermind. ] I see that continent, I turn the other way. I find the ship with a figurehead of a fish and I tell them I'm a friend of yours, and it should all be good?
[ That sounds a lot easier than he's pretty sure it's actually going to be, and maybe the hesitation in his voice is enough to clue Sanji in that Mark doesn't exactly have faith in himself to not get lost. That, or the way he hastily adds on: ] I mean, I'm really fast, so it still shouldn't take me too long to find. And as long as there aren't any other really pink islands around I can always find you again too, right?
[ He definitely isn't planning on ditching Sanji entirely during the rest of his stay in his world. ]
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Anyway, it's probably going to take some time, which is good, because it'll give Sanji an opportunity or two to approach Iva about Mark. A worrywart like him isn't going to stay away for long, and Sanji's not about to let him run himself ragged in a world that isn't his when Mark's got enough on his plate.]
Right. I can't guarantee that there aren't other islands like this one out there, but this is definitely the pinkest I've ever seen. [Not to mention the terrain's shaped like a heart.] If you can't find the restaurant, just come back here and I'll figure something out.
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... Though maybe less obnoxiously, next time. So he doesn't draw unwanted attention. Stealth... maybe that's something he can focus on while he's here too... ]
Nah, I'm sure I'll find it. [ He nods, more sure of himself. Smiles in what he thinks is a reassuring manner. ] Even if it takes me a bit... I'll get there.
[ A beat. ]
I'm gonna come back here though, okay? So you know it went alright. Maybe in like... a week or two?
[ How long is he going to end up here... he really should have thought this through, but, oh well. All he can do is make the best of it now, a massive part of which is making sure he keeps things as easy for Sanji as possible. ]
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Sounds good. You don't have to rush if things are going well, but you can send me a message any time.
[He slides a hand in his pant pocket, feeling for his phone. Even now, its sleek design is a novelty. Whether he's answering Mark or Asa, he's going to have to make sure it's properly muted before he does anything else.
But before even that:] You hungry?
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Sure, Mark can send messages; he nods, easy. But he's still gonna come back — it'd be weird to have come to Sanji's world and not visit him again, even if Sanji did actually tell him not to come to begin with—
A blink at his question, mind catching up to him, followed by a moment's pause. Is he hungry?
And then, another nod. ] Yeah, kind of... [ He probably hasn't been eating the greatest after the whole, you know. Reason he wanted to talk in the first place.
Trying to thread the needle between not wanting to impose himself, but also knowing that this very much is Sanji's thing: ] You got something in mind?
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Mark can always eat at the Baratie—Zeff will feed him at no charge or for a day of washing dishes, if nothing else—but it's the principle of the matter. Sanji can't send him on a long-distance journey on an halfway empty stomach, so he hunches forward and plants his feet against the branch, crouching to ready himself for a leap.]
Yeah. First things first: we need to find a duck or two.
[They live all over this forest, he knows. It's time to cook a few and rejuvenate Mark.]
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Oh, man. I can't remember the last time I had duck. [ He's leaning forward now too, still sitting since it doesn't take much for him to get back in the air, looking over at Sanji. ] Is it part of your training to find them yourself, or can I help?
[ Respecting boundaries... But also, he knows with Sanji cooking them up, they'll be amazing. ]
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