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for @quinloki and her Sabo x Reader fanfic on tumblr and AO3

As always

sketch and lineart - me

color and render - @penbwl

(btw we plan to make a seperate conjoined blog for our collabs and perhaps in future more )

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[dragons-clause]

rare non twst content from me I just had this guy rotating in my brain lately ><

[dragons-clause]

The Dragon's Clause

Sabo x Fem Reader

CW: Forced marriage, intrigue, character death, fantasy violence, blood, magic, language, smut, 18+ mdni

Tag List: @mfreedomstuff @manachiichan @sleepykittycx

Chapter 20: Engagement Party

The last few pins and accessories were put into place and you took a moment to look at yourself in the mirror. It was less that you were concerned about your appearance, and more that you wanted to appreciate Koala’s, and the small army of maids who helped her, efforts in making sure you were flawless for the evening.

Deep blues shifted seamlessly into aquatic greens and back. While the primary color was blue, the green shimmered through the dress enough to catch the eye. The melding of the academy and the Duke’s own colors. Accented in silver, with blue-green gems highlighting the filigree swirls of your jewelry.

Things you were wearing easily thanks to Marco’s arrival not two days after the explosive incident.

As expected, Sabo didn’t send his desk away, and instead stayed in the small infirmary space with you and Luffy for the two days before Marco’s arrival. The man’s arrival was impressive enough, as he’d flown from the warp gate. 

Flying was rare in this world, even with the capacities of magic, and Marco transformed into a massive bird of gold and teal fire in order to do so. It was not a subtle means of transportation.

The man himself was not subtle either.

Tall and confident, he wasted neither words nor actions. He wasn’t rude or haughty about it, but efficiency was a point of pride, as far as you could tell. He introduced himself to you even after being greeted by Ace, and when all three young men had pointed to you, he hadn’t even stepped toward Luffy, despite the young prince being more visibly injured.

“Marco the phoenix,” he had introduced himself with a short bow. “Marco is sufficient. I heal through flames, so please don’t be alarmed, Miss-?”

“A’tana Écaille de Lulusia, but you may call me Lady Lu.” You answered, sitting up on the edge of the bed as he had helped you move.

Beautiful teal flames, edged in gold, licked around his fingers. He barely even set his hand against yours and you could feel the warmth sinking into your body. It took two days for his particular power to heal you completely, and Prince Luffy took two more days beyond you. He was only just cleared to spar the day before the banquet.

As Marco had explained it, his magic mixed with the magic of others, and then relied heavily on their own stamina to aid with healing. In this way he wasn’t nearly as effective as a proper Saint or Healer, but he was a step above most physicians.

He had also been a boon to the reconstruction efforts, utilizing both his unique skill and strong magic to bolster those working on the clean up.

The most time you spent with him was during meals, but Ace, Sabo and Luffy all spoke highly of him at nearly every opportunity. Considering the opinion you had of them, it made Marco a respectable and trustworthy person in your estimation, despite not getting much time to sit and talk with him directly.

Koala escorted you to the hall, and Sabo was waiting outside for you. The banquet was just barely beginning, and most all of the guests had arrived. You and Sabo would, officially, enter last. The only people who would be announced after your arrival would be anyone who out ranked the Duke.

Sabo’s suit was a matching inverse of yours. Mostly white and silver, it was accented in the same deep blue and shifting greens of your gown. The styles were similar, paying homage to the Academy while also incorporating Goa styles - at least that was the official statement on the matter. The style was more a nod to the Academy than not, and what style finished it after that was the Dawn Kingdom.

But not many in attendance would notice, and those that might wouldn’t be likely to point it out either. Lest they wanted to test the waters of the Duke’s patience while a guest in his house.

“You look,” Sabo’s words halt, and you can see pink dust his cheeks. “Beautiful, my Lady.”

Smiling, you accept the arm he offers. “And you are ever the most handsome noble I’ve met, your grace.”

Sabo smiles. “You’ve still not yet met many nobles.” He teases.

“Then, will you ask me after tonight?” You prompt, glancing up at him coyly before turning your attention to the doors before you both.

“If you so wish it of me, certainly.” He replies, and you can hear the smile on his lips, and feel the nervous flex of his arm beneath your fingers. “Shall we?”

"Yes, lets.”

Stepping forward with Sabo, the doors are opened. The announcer speaks out over the crowd that has gathered.

“The Grand Duke Sabo Eldgard de Goa, and the Lady A’tana Écaille de Lulusia!”

You knew that most all of Goa had been invited to the engagement party, and that a large number of people from outside the country had also been invited. You had never had a coming of age party, or a débutante ball. You were the child of a powerless royal, whose only worth had been in your blood, and only while your father lived.

This was the first time you had seen so many affluent people.

This was the first time so many affluent people had seen you.

The general hush that had fallen over everyone gathered was a weight you hadn’t expected to sit so heavily on your shoulders. You kept your expression as neutral as you could, erring a little on the side of the occasional soft smile when someone’s gaze met yours as your eyes scanned the crowd. You weren’t surprised to see Ace and Luffy at the back of the room, the young prince waving at you with one arm as he ate his fill.

You had an entire extra banquet table set up to satisfy Luffy alone, and Ace was keeping just enough of an eye on him to make sure he didn’t stray too far from it.

When you near the bottom of the staircase, Marco steps out from the crowd. He’s dressed in pastel teals and golds, his hair swept loosely off to the side, gathered with a matching ribbon. As understated as it was, you keep expecting him to burst into his signature flames, the light of the hall dancing off his suit as though it meant to catch fire at any moment.

“It is my honor to greet the Duke and his fiancé,” he says with a bow. You can already hear the murmurs of the people gathered. Whispers of him being the Phoenix are already moving through the crowd. “Allow me to be the first to officially wish you both well.”

“Thank you, sir.” Sabo replies, inclining his head. 

“For everything.” You add, also inclining your head. As difficult as it was, Sabo and Koala had impressed upon you for days that the only persons you would bow to during the ball were Sterry and Sabo’s parents. As his fiancé, and as the others were guests, you were not required to bow to anyone else.

Showing equal deference to everyone would give you less to worry about as you greeted a long list of people.

Marco had offered to break the ice, in place of Ace, who was going to need to try and keep a lower profile anyway. The two kingdoms were at peace, but there were rumors that Sabo sought Goa’s crown and would use Dawn’s backing to get it. So in public places the two often kept a bit of space when they could.

“Well, if this old bird thinks well of you,” you turn to see a man who looks like he would be just as comfortable in a bar as he was right now. His suit was well tailored, deep reds and browns, trimmed in gold. The style was unique to you, it was loose and flowed with his movements, but it suited him well. 

His left arm was false, made of leather and brass and magic, but it moved so naturally you weren’t sure you were seeing it correctly - as though it was as real as one of flesh and blood.

“Then I see no reason to worry.” He finishes, bowing deeply with an easy flourish that would almost feel overdone if it had been someone less sure. “Shanks, at your service.”

“Prince Luffy speaks highly of you,” Sabo says with a smile. “Though this is our first meeting, I honor his assessment of people.”

There’s something in Sabo’s tone that feels tense, but you aren’t sure if it’s hesitation or respect. Maybe both, you consider, since you can feel the sharp edges around a man who is going out of his way to appear affable. Marco was powerful, and it was easy to get a sense of that just by being in his presence. Shanks was also powerful, but while Marco appeared truly at ease, you couldn’t shake the feeling that Shanks was tense beneath the surface.

Though that tension wasn’t directed at you or the Duke.

“I appreciate that, your Grace. My apologies for effectively crashing your party.” 

“Think nothing of it.” Sabo looking over to you before you both smile at Shanks. “With more time to plan for the wedding, we’ll be happy to have officially in attendance for that one. Especially as I would like to speak to you about an associate of yours, when there’s more time.”

You could swear for a split second that Shanks looked embarrassed. “Certainly, your Grace.” 

Marco’s and Shanks’ approach of you and Sabo seemed to put the entire hall at ease. The din of conversation bubbles up around you and people turn into their own groups, waiting in turn for a chance to approach the two of you.

You met at least a hundred people over the course of the night, and most of them blurred together. Nobles of Goa who approached the Duke with nervous hesitancy, walking away with smiles on their faces as your words and movements assured them you weren’t under duress. The Lady Lulusia was truly happy beside the cold northern Duke, and while he may be as intense and off-putting as usual, you were sure people noticed the way his expression softened when you spoke.

People from other kingdoms came up and introduced themselves to you throughout the night. They stayed in your mind more than the blur of Goa nobles, mostly because Sabo actually spoke to them.

A young lady with long fiery orange hair introduced herself as Nefertiti Nami, and apologized to Sabo about Queen Vivi’s absence. Apparently her and someone called “Trah-oh” would be in attendance for the wedding, but Nami had come for now, and to keep track of a knight from Germa. The crossing of connections didn’t make sense to you, but when she pointed to a green-haired, severe looking young man in a Germa military uniform talking to Prince Luffy, it made a little more sense.

Something about Luffy pulled at you, and you imagined that pull was fairly universal. Sabo pointed out to you that the knight hanging around Luffy was the very same one he’d sparred near endlessly with, after Luffy, Ace, the Alabasta Kingdom and the Queendom Kingdom had united to help Germa’s king take control during an internal conflict between Germa’s four princes.

Dawn and Goa as kingdoms hadn’t gotten officially involved, but Sabo had been ready to send more aid despite being sent to the border, and King Garp would’ve intervened to save Luffy and Ace if needed. Fortunately, despite the ferocity of the battle, the war didn’t drag on. Germa’s people suffered minimally and in the end the Academy itself was only closed for a couple of months.

A well-dressed young man with a distinctively long nose, bouncy curly hair, and a bright smile introduced himself as the representative from The Queendom Kingdom. He had been in Germa on a diplomatic mission, and to help with the reconstruction efforts, when news of the engagement ceremony arrived. His king had given him permission to attend, allowing the king to focus on attending the upcoming wedding.

The Queendom was the longest journey to Goa, from any capital on the continent, especially since it was located on an island some miles off shore from Alabasta’s coast. 

Two hours into the evening and you’re ready to sit and take a break when the announcer’s voice fills the hall.

“The Crown Prince of Goa, Sterry Outlook IV de Goa!” 

You feel every muscle in your body flinch, fingers tensing. Between getting settled into your new home, and everything around the engagement party, your training, and the arrival of Ace and Luffy, you had never told Sabo how the King, Queen, and Prince had treated you. Sure, you didn’t doubt he had some inkling, and certainly you knew that it wouldn’t harm you to be honest with him about it, but it was still something you hadn’t had the chance to discuss clearly.

What plans you had put together in terms of dealing with Sterry, should he end up arriving, were all centered around getting him to leave with minimal negative impact.

“Are you alright?” Sabo questions. He’s holding your hand, but his eyes are on the entrance as Sterry comes into view through the doors.

“Yes.” You answer softly, squeezing his hand to reassure him. “Beside you, your Grace, I am.”

You step forward with Sabo as the two of you move to greet Sterry. You curtsy as Sabo bows, and Sterry closes the distance between you as he steps off the last of the stairs.

“Up, both of you, it is not my engagement party.” He offers up jovially. There’s an odd tension in the air, an uncomfortable, almost manic look in his eyes when you lift your head to meet his smiling face. Something about it makes you cold down your spine, but you shove your discomfort aside.

No matter what Sterry does or says, you’re not all by yourself while three people berate you over breakfast.

“I was beginning to think you weren’t going to be able to make it.” Sabo says as you both straighten back up.

“I was still convincing the King at breakfast,” Sterry explains, and he almost sounds apologetic.

“Truly, a time when conversations can be most tense.” You offer up with an apologetic tone and neutral expression.

You don’t risk looking at Sabo, but Sterry turns his attention away from you and toward his brother.

“Indeed.” He says stiffly, before clearing his throat. “Is there somewhere we can speak? I realize it’s rude of me to request time with you during your celebration, but I just need a few moments.”

Sabo looks over at you. “My lady, I’m sure my brother can wait a couple more hours if you prefer, otherwise I promise we won’t be long. Tonight is effectively your debut and your engagement party.”

Sabo’s emphasis on the words causes Sterry to shift awkwardly, as the two await your verdict.

“Truth be told, your Grace,” you admit with a smile. “I’m not used to events like this, and having a few moments to sit would be welcome. I shall await your return patiently.” 

“Thank you, Lady Lulusia.” Sabo bends down, raising your hand up and kissing the back of it briefly before stepping away with Sterry. It takes you a second to realize the action had put you in a bit of a daze, but you step away, and find a place to sit. 

You cannot, as effectively the star of the evening, scurry away into a dark corner or step outside, especially not with the Duke no longer on the floor. Instead you sit down at a vacant table that’s easily visible to most in the hall. You’re barely even fully seated when Koala comes over with a cup of tea and a small tart.

“I hope you haven’t been waiting for me to sit for the last two hours, Koala.” You hum softly and she smiles in a way that doesn’t answer your concern in the slightest.

“Please enjoy these, my Lady. If his Grace keeps you waiting too long I shall fetch him for you.” She replies and you smile.

“I’ll not wither away if he takes more than a few moments, so long as he returns.” You assure her.

Having already met most of the attending guests, you weren’t surprised that people seemed to give you some space as you sipped your tea and ate the small treat Koala had brought you. While people were certainly interested in you, most were interested in creating a connection with the Duke, or you and the Duke.

You alone were not interesting, or powerful enough, to be worth approaching. Which suited you just as well.

Though, you weren’t surprised when someone approached you once you were done eating.

“May I have a moment of your time?” The deep voice rolls down your back like warm honey. Glancing askance you can barely take in more than the man’s waist and broad chest. You would have to crane your neck to meet his eyes.

“Please,” you offer, holding a hand out toward the seat across from you. “Have a seat, sir.”

The man who sits across from you is dressed richly, but you know the difference between a noble and a merchant. While this man’s pockets may be deeper than the treasury of most kingdoms, there was no nobility in his countenance. A heavy scar marks him uniquely from one side of his face to the other, cut across the bridge of his nose.

A permanent, if not grotesque, smile.

Rich jewels adorn the only hand he has left, and the deep golden hue of the hook that is in place of his other hand is ornate. The craftsmanship is delicate, and meant to assure those around him that he’s not dangerous, since the fine work dulls what would normally be a sharp and ruthless tip.

“It is my pleasure to meet you, Lady Lulusia, future Duchess of Goa.” He says easily, beginning his introduction with a pleasing tone and a soft expression. As soft an expression as you think he can manage, at least. “I am Sir Crocodile, the merchant king.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you, though I’m unsure why you’re introducing yourself to just me.” You reply evenly. You’re not afraid of the man sitting across from you. Not while you’re here, in the heart of the Duke’s estate, surrounded by his knights and personnel.

But you’re no fool. 

The man sitting across from you is extremely dangerous. Like Marco and Shanks, there’s a power that shifts around him. Where Marco leaves you fully at ease, perhaps solely through his connection to Sabo and his brothers, and Shanks is actively seeking to make sure you’re at ease, Crocodile bothers with none of this.

His words are careful, his tone is as manicured as his look. Outside of the safety of this space, you do not doubt that he would be able to do as he pleased, and your only safety would be whatever resided within the boundaries of his pleasure.

You did not want to test your strength against his if you could avoid it.

“Do not be so dismissive of your worth, Lady Lulusia.” He replies smoothly. “Your father’s accomplishments at the northern border are well-known. Ten years at his heel carried you well through all the changes you faced later in life.” 

You can feel your stomach knot at how much he knows, but you try not to let it show. Knowing your past doesn’t mean he knows everything about you.

“The success you’re enjoying right now is neither luck nor ignorant happenstance.” He says plainly. “It is a mark of your skill.”

“It’s hardly felt that way,” you admit plainly, thinking about how much it felt like you were being led around by your nose when you first arrived in Goa. “But I do appreciate your assessment.”

His eyes narrow, and for a moment you feel more exposed than you did when the good doctor was actively casting magic on you to see what your bones looked like. The tension feels like teeth at your throat for a split second, but then it’s gone, and the oddly soft expression returns.

“While it will be a pleasure to do business with both you and the Duke, I must apologize that I don’t believe I will be able to attend your wedding.” With a single finger he slides a sealed envelope across the table, leaving it just within your own easy reach. “A gift, in place of that, to do with as you please. May you know success as vast as the sands, Lady Lulusia.”

He offers the words in farewell, standing up and bowing slightly before walking away. Once he’s stepped away from your table, Koala is at your side again. You look at the sealed envelope, glancing up to notice that Sabo was on his way back, standing along the upper level and seemingly bidding farewell to Sterry.

Looking back down at the item that was left behind you look over at Koala, who was still watching Crocodile as he disappeared into the crowd with ease.

“Koala, can you take this back to my room?” You request, tapping the envelope. 

“Certainly, my Lady.” Bowing, Koala takes the letter and steps away. If she had a reason to linger you know she would’ve said as much, so you don’t worry about her quick departure.

Your few moments of respite were as far from restful as they could’ve ever hoped to be. You were glad that it looked like Sterry was well and truly leaving, since the possibility of him lingering after Sabo left was one of the largest immediate concerns you had.

Sabo smiles at you as you stand up and meet him near the steps.

“My apologies,” he says, stepping in line with you easily. “I hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long.”

“Not at all, your Grace. I had a nice respite, and only one new name to learn.” 

“Oh?”

“A merchant with a very distinct scar.” 

Sabo stiffens, but then relaxes. “He was invited. I didn’t expect him to approach you alone like that, I apologize.”

“No need, he was…” you pause, brows furrowing briefly. Sabo regards you for a moment and you shrug. “Polite.” 

“That’s as good as one can hope for.” He admits with a sheepish expression. “Another hour then, let us endure it together. Let me know if you need to rest, my Lady, I would like a moment of your time before you retire tonight.”

“Certainly, your Grace.” You reply, a warm smile on your lips as you return to the crowds with Sabo by your side.

The two of you moved through the hall with ease, meeting with more people, stopping to talk to some you had already met, and by the time guests started to depart you were fairly certain you had spoken to the vast majority of Goa’s nobility. In a few days time you were certain there would be rumors about how the cold Duke of the north was finally warming up. It had taken some trial and error on the King’s part to find a good match for him, but the King’s wisdom and tenacity persevered.

It was also possible that it was the Crown Prince’s idea, and that he was coming into his role as future king for Goa. Or so you had both implied.

As Sabo had pointed out before, it was best for everyone if the people of Goa didn’t have to worry about a fight for the crown. After Germa’s recent war, there was a heavier unease over the populous, and Sabo truly had no desire to be king anyway.

When your head was swimming with far too many names again, and the hall was more than half as full as it had been, Sabo excused the two of you from the main hall and escorted you out into the gardens. The sun was long set, and the cool air was welcome against the warmth and lights of the hall. The relative quiet was also welcome, as the constant din of conversation had started to wear on you as much as the number of people and introductions.

You breathe in the sweet air deeply, Sabo right along with you. Both of you let out soft sighs, trying to release the tension of the long party as much as you can.

“There were even more people than I expected.” He says, before turning toward you. Crossing his stomach with his arm he bows toward you with a little less flourish than Shanks had used at the start of the event. “Might I escort you to one of my favorite places in the gardens, my Lady?”

He offers his hand at the end of his question and with a smile, you accept it.

“I would be honored, my Lord.”

There was no moonlight to speak of, but Sabo led you unerringly through the gardens, setting a few motes of light to brighten your view of the flowers and plants you were passing by. The orbs were much smaller than the cantrip you commonly used, and far more numerous.

“They’re like fireflies.” You murmur. “They’re beautiful.”

“Ace has far more flexibility with this technique than I do,” he admits, his voice full of warmth. “They’re not as bright as the usual spell and I don’t want to attract unnecessary attention.”

The laugh bubbles up your throat and you indulge the sound. “I suppose we have had ample attention already tonight.”

“Indeed.” Sabo clears his throat and something in his manner has your face heating up. “And as we have a rare moment together, I wanted to say something that I find has been on my mind… quite often as of late.”

“Certainly.” You barely get the word past your lips, a warmth in your chest holding the cool air around you at bay quite suddenly.

Sabo takes both of your hands into his, and his eyes focus on them, his gloved thumbs rubbing the backs of your hands gently.

“Things as they are,” he begins, a shiver in his voice that makes it difficult for you to look up at him, instead you’re watching your hands same as he is. “The matter of marriage may well be a foregone conclusion, and while this brings me some comfort-.”

You look up at the revelation, and Sabo’s gaze shifts to yours. His face is pink, even in the dim light of his magic flitting about you, you can see the emotion he’s struggling with in his words on his face.

“I find that I am, perhaps greedily, desiring a union with you that is more than one of lucky providence. Emotional connections may be looked down upon by the wide majority of nobility, and while I might not be ready to put a word to this feeling, I know that I cherish it.

“I cherish you.” He squeezes your hands, pressing his lips together, and looking away for just a moment before he looks back at you. Sabo kneels down on one knee. “I will do all I can to see you happy. Anything within my power to keep your smile in my life.”

He breathes in deep, steadying his nerves and looking at your hands again, holding them tightly for a second before pulling a hand away and reaching into his jacket. Taking out a small, ornate wooden box, he flips the lid up with his thumb.

“I am naught but a man before you, asking if you will do me the greatest honor I may ever know.” You can feel the tears running down your cheeks despite all your efforts. You don’t even know when they began to well up in your eyes. Sabo looks torn for a moment, caught between his own fears and your tears.

“Will you marry me?”

Wiping a tear away, you nod. You mean to lean down and hug him, but your legs decide differently and Sabo nearly drops the ring, catching you as you fall into him for an embrace you didn't realize was so desperately desired.

“Yes,” you finally manage, holding onto him and taking a moment to calm yourself before you lean back onto your knees enough to look at him. “I would be just as honored.”

Gloved fingers carefully wipe tears from your cheeks, Sabo’s eyes full of relief and focus. He stops, once your tears are wiped away, and looks down at his hands.

“I… apologize, Lady Lulusia, my hands are a bit of a fright.” He explains, even as he begins to pull his glove off. “But I-.”

Putting your hand over his, you still his actions. “No part of you, your Grace, is frightful.” Carefully, you pull his glove the rest of the way, giving him time enough to stop you if he wishes.

“Thank you.” His voice is soft, and almost fragile. You’re sure there’s mountains of history tucked in the two words, but now isn’t the time. With his gloves off, he gives you a moment to run your fingers over the burn scars.

Swallowing thickly he reaches out for your face, and when you lean toward him, it’s all that he needs. Cupping your cheeks gently, he carefully brings your lips to his.

Dry, soft, shivering slightly from nerves, you or him you can’t tell. The first sweet press is brief, and your tongues slipping over your own dry lips is the only action to separate the first kiss from the second one. This one is warm, far less dry, and far more sure. Heat rushes to your face, and down to your chest, as if your body cannot decide where it’s needed. The shift sends a thrill through you, adding sweetness to a kiss you’d been wanting for far too long already.

It took a couple more kisses between you, before either of you thought about the ring.

[dragons-clause]

The Dragon's Clause

Sabo x Fem Reader

CW: Forced marriage, intrigue, character death, fantasy violence, blood, magic, language, smut, 18+ mdni

Tag List: @mfreedomstuff @manachiichan @sleepykittycx

Chapter 19: A Cause for Clause

“I assure you, I’m quite alright.” You say for the sixth or seventh time in the last hour.

You and Luffy are in the medical room often used by the guards. It’s near where you were training, and is well-stocked in case of injury during sparring matches.

Luffy had wrapped his arms around you and Sabo, pulling you and the Duke from the makeshift room. Your concentration had shattered when Sabo embraced you, and Luffy made sure everyone cleared the room before it began to collapse. Fortunately for everyone involved the dome itself had mostly stabilized, and only a few errant rocks fell.

Unfortunately, the entire structure was unstable and was going to have to be completely demolished and rebuilt. Even if most of the seastone could be repurposed, you didn’t want to think about the cost.

Before you could even say thank you, Sabo carried you to the infirmary with Ace and Luffy following behind. It was not the first time they Duke had carried you, but it was certainly the first time he had done so in front of others.

You were separated from his sight only for as long as it took a nurse to look you over, clean your scrapes and cuts, and bandage them. There was a physician on the way, but Dr. Nako lived and worked in the village itself, and so it took time for someone to fetch him and bring him back.

Sabo’s brows furrow at your words and he looks over at Luffy. He was bandaged up almost twice as much as you were, sitting up and smiling at Ace over something they had been talking about.

“A blast like that, we don’t know what kind of internal injuries you two might have.” He insists, finally getting you to lay down. Ace flicks Luffy’s forehead and the young prince lays down as well, despite the pout on his face.

“Dr. Nako can at least scan you and assess the damage. Until then,” he looks over at Luffy and you can imagine his expression is severe. “I expect both of you to take it easy.”

“Don’t fret too much, Lu.” Ace assures his younger brother. “Marco will be here in a couple days after he gets my message. Even if the doctor tells you to take it easier, the head master will be able to fix you right up.”

“I thought everyone who could use healing magic became a member of the Empire.” You question, shifting a little to ease an ache in your side. You didn’t want Sabo to worry, but with all the excitement done and over with the ache of the ordeal was settling into your body. Even without Sabo looming over you, you weren’t sure you would be doing much else anyway.

“Headmaster Marco, er,” Sabo stutters, correcting himself. “He’s retired, but Marco’s Specialization is transfiguration.” He explains, pulling a seat up so he can sit and keep an eye on both you and Luffy. “Specifically, he’s more widely known as The Phoenix.”

Your eyes go wide, but you manage to keep your surprise contained.

“My father spoke of him,” you say as the others look over at you. “When he found his specialization he was the Wall of the North.”

Sabo smiles. “Of course that’s how your father knows him. I almost wish we could question him, since Marco hardly speaks of his past.” The Duke gives a resigned shrug. “He’s told us some stuff about a demon invasion he helped deal with, but just enough to make sure we would know one if we saw one.”

You smile. “Yeah, the knights spoke about it more than my father. At first I thought it was just a distinction between different kinds of beasts, but before I left to return to Lulusia’s capitol he explained it more clearly.”

“… Did he have any specific concerns?” Sabo questions and you shake your head after considering it for a moment.

“None he felt the need to share. Simply that demons, devils, whatever people preferred to call them, were different than the beasts.” You admit. “He spoke of Aura being more effective than magic, and then explained I would need to become a Sword or Shield before I could begin training in Aura.”

“It’s technically haki,” Ace begins.

“Ryuo,” Luffy corrects, interrupting him and smiling broadly when Ace turns toward him with a frown.

“I was saying it’s technically haki when you’re not channeling it through a weapon.” Ace clarifies, raising his fist like he was going to punch Luffy before he pinches the younger man’s cheek.

“Speaking of,” Sabo begins turning toward you. “Do you know which one you-.” A knock at the door interrupts him, and Koala’s voice carries through it.

“I’m here with Dr. Nako!”

“Enter.” Sabo replies. You watch as him and Ace both straighten up, their relaxed postures immediately correcting. Even Luffy seems a little more subdued, relaxing into the bed.

Nako is an older man with grey hair. He was sporting an impressive mustache and a long goatee. For someone not of the nobility his clothes were neat and well-tailored, but hastily put on. Something in the way that he carried himself made you think he was more border knight than doctor, but that wouldn’t surprise you. Border expeditions needed medics as much as they needed fighters.

“Your Grace.” He says the words politely enough, but doesn’t waste time bowing. His hair is held back by a head scarf, with a doctor’s symbol on it, and when he sets his bag down he puts a mask over his facial hair. He gives you and Luffy a quick look before walking over to the young prince.

Making precise movements with his hands you watch the spell dance around Luffy. A soft blue oval covers his body, barely visible runes shifting over it.

Scan was a relatively basic spell itself, but it required vast amounts of medical knowledge to fully comprehend. There was a similar cantrip that would wrap around someone and change colors based on their condition. Blue for perfectly healthy, green for good, the more it shifted toward yellow, orange, and then inevitably red, the worse a person’s condition was. It gave no other information, but in large scale situations it was invaluable for triage.

“I’m not surprised to see you in here, young prince.” Nako says with a tone more relieved than irritated. “Koala tells me there was an explosion. You have a few hairline fractures and some internal bruising. Go easy on your usual shenanigans, and you’ll heal up completely in a week or two.”

Hairline fractures, and heal up completely in a week or two, were at odds in your head. You knew some people healed faster than others, but that still seemed a bit extreme. The absurd doctor turned away from Luffy and came over to your bed.

Sabo moves out of his way without being prompted, and Nako smiles down at you warmly.

“You must be the Lady Lulusia, forgive me for the delay.” His tone is warm, kind, and professional.

“It’s quite alright.” You admit, relaxing as he begins to cast the spell again. “Prince Lu took the brunt of it.”

“… Are you certain?” Nako questions and your brows furrow.

“I am. I...” Your brows furrow. You may have been the source, but you were buffeted by the magic that escaped you. Luffy was.

“Is she alright?”

“She will survive, but,” he stiffens a bit, looking down at you. “Your injuries are not minor, Lady Lulusia. You have three cracked ribs. Two on your left, and one on the right side. There’s a good bit of internal bruising, you -.” Nako stops speaking abruptly, his eyes focused on some information from the scan, as he was no longer looking at you.

“For… forgive me, Lady Lulusia.” He says after a moment. “It seems you are as much a knight as you are the Duke’s fiance.”

The spell fades and he takes a step back, bowing toward you. “I assume you were the source?”

“I… yes.” You admit after a quick glance at Sabo.

Straightening up, Dr. Nako regards you. “I invoke The Healer’s Clause.”

As far as anyone knew, there were seven clauses that governed the Empire and the Kingdoms protected by it. The Divine Clause governed the agreement between the Five Elders, the Twenty Saints and the Hundred Valors—and by this clause was the governing body of the world held together. The Healer’s Clause was a binding agreement between a healer and their patient, often invoked within a space to maintain privacy and bind all those within to secrecy.

There were four other Clauses; The Guardian’s Clause, the Trade Clause, the Union Clause, and the Service Clause.

Binding these six clauses, and supposedly all magic within the Empires and its kingdoms, was the Dragon’s Clause. Technically, every time someone manifests magic, from cantrips to specializations, they were invoking the Dragon’s Clause.

“I agree.” All four of you responded to the invocation from Dr. Nako, and you watch as the agreement seals the room.

Anything spoken within the room, until the Clause is released, will neither be heard by anyone outside the room, nor will you and the others be able to speak of it freely without spoken consent from the subject. Meaning no one else will be able to speak on your behalf unless you allow them, nor would you be able to speak on Prince Luffy’s condition without his spoken consent.

It protected patient and healer both, and considering the amount of information one could learn through the invocation of Scan, the Clause itself made sense. Many healers would be at risk of execution or kidnapping otherwise, but the only people who could forcefully release any Clause were the five elders.

Nako is quiet for a long moment, even after the spell settles. “My lady, I have no gentle way to ask this, but were you adopted?”

“What?” You can’t feel the pain in your ribs as you sit up. “No, I was not.”

Dr. Nako is silent, and so you continue. The subject is a sore one, brought up often, especially after your father’s passing.

“My father spoke to the validity of my blood for two weeks.” You explain, struggling to keep your voice steady. “I do not know what he faced in order to convince his brother, the king of Lulusia, but by the end of it there was no question left. He met… He met my mother while he was at the border, they fell in love and I was born. It’s true there was no official witness, and my mother passed shortly after, but I am-.”

“You do not have a valorous mark.” Dr. Nako interrupts.

Your mouth opens, and closes. All the noble houses had the mark of valor in their blood, it was what bound them to the agreement of the hundred Valors. It was literally the mark of nobility in the eyes of the Empire and its kingdoms.

“What? No… I…”

Without it, you were a commoner. Adoption would provide you legal protections, but nobles did not adopt commoners, they sponsored them. Sponsored commoners could become rich and successful, but they would never be Valors. They would never be nobles, and certainly they would not be marrying one.

“I only know that I am my father’s daughter.” You say it quietly, but resolutely. “So he said. So he insisted. I know no other family.” You can feel yourself begin to shake, but Sabo kneels down beside you, setting his hand over yours.

“I apologize, your Grace, I did not mean-.”

“I know, Lady Lulusia, it’s alright.” Sabo’s interruption is soft, the smile on his face is tense, but not accusatory.

“Maybe the meld erased it.” Luffy says bluntly. He’s sitting on the edge of the bed, as though he’s completely oblivious to his own injuries.

“Eh?” Ace tilts his head and Luffy shrugs.

“The seastone didn’t break her barrier.” He explains. “Maybe when her magic melded, it erased the mark.”

Sabo’s fingers flinch against yours, and the tension in the room pulls even tighter than it had been a moment before. Dr. Nako, the only one who had been standing, sits down in the middle of the room with a heavy thump. You can almost feel yourself, back in the room, looking at your own spell and wondering what would crush you first.

The implication of it, or the ceiling itself.

“… WHAT?!” Ace’s exclamation shatters the tension as he stands up, pushing the chair away loudly in his surprise. He’s slack-jawed, his dumbfounded expression moving away from Luffy and turning to you. He’s making no effort to mitigate it, and it’s almost enough to make you laugh.

“That’s impossible.” Dr. Nako murmurs. His eyes are wide, the color draining from his face. If he wasn’t already sat upon the floor he would’ve likely passed out.

Looking away from Ace, your gaze is caught by Sabo. The look on his face is stern. You’re pretty sure he isn’t angry, but you aren’t entirely sure what all is within the weight of his gaze. You can imagine some of the complexity is in relation to his responsibility toward the people of Aquilegia.

“It’s true?” The question is barely even a question. You know Sabo isn’t doubting Luffy’s declaration, but more that he’s looking for your confirmation.

You nod. “I was so surprised Luffy had to help me maintain focus on the spell.”

Sabo releases a breath, as though he’s willing his body to relax. “Clause or no, this information doesn’t leave this room.” He asserts and everyone agrees. “Dr. Nako-.”

Nako puts a hand up, halting Sabo’s words. “I heard nothing.” He asserts, standing up and trying to collect himself. “Prince Luffy has sustained far worse injuries in his youth, he will be fine with proper rest. The Lady Lulusia’s injuries were only more concerning because I do not know what she has endured prior, but they are not life-threatening. I recommend as much rest as she can, and some mild pain medication prior to the ball so that your guests do not have cause for concern.”

Having gathered his things while he spoke, he bows to the Duke. “By your leave, your grace.”

Sabo smiles in relief, grateful for the easy resolution. “Of course, Dr. Nako, thank you for your service.”

“Very well then, I bind this clause with Seal, and thus without permission from the patient, no words may be given sound or shape.” He declares, and the sigils of the clause flare briefly before the magic is lifted from the room.

As Dr. Nako exits the room, you look down, realizing that Sabo hasn’t released his hold on your hand the entire time. It’s comforting, but also embarrassing for some reason. He pats your hand comfortingly as he stands, the warmth of his fingers slipping away for a moment before he sits down across from you.

There’s a long silence in the room, and with the distraction from earlier starting to fade you can feel the ache in your body again. Many of the border knights had insisted pain was a matter of mind over matter, but without something to distract you, you didn’t have that particular skill.

“It doesn’t change anything.” Sabo says after a few moments, waving his hand as if to dismiss the entire conversation. “I will not hear any apologies or any alternatives,” he adds, looking at you. His tone is stern, but his features are bright, a warm smile on his face.

“As you wish, your grace.” You agree softly, wincing when you bow your head.

“Rest then, both of you.” Sabo insists, pointing to Luffy even as he moves to help you get comfortable in the clinic’s bed. “Put up with being in here for the day and I’ll have meals brought in. By this evening there should be enough spare hands to help clean you up and get your dressings changed.”

He settles back into the chair near your bed. “Karasu.”

The name beckons the man, and after a second ash starts to collect behind Sabo, forming into the tall, pale man you had seen while you were with Luffy earlier.

“The grounds are secure, your grace.” Karasu begins without further prompting. “Margrave Lindbergh verified as much just a moment ago. Currently a minimal patrol is set, and most spare hands are dismantling the compromised building. Construction will need to commence after the Engagement Ball, but there will be no risk to any guests who may inadvertently wander into the effected area.”

“Good. Send Hack into town to hire extra hands to help the knights, and tell Koala to have Moda and Eliza take over for her. I need her to bring me the incomplete contracts and coordinate meals with the kitchen.”

“Hack is already headed back into town with Dr. Nako, I will convey the news to him and Koala as requested.”

“Thank you, and rest afterward. You’ve already done more than enough.”

“By your will, your grace.” Karasu responds, bowing even as he turns to ash and slips away again.

“No,” you sigh, leaning back into your bedding. “I am never going to get used to that.” Luffy chuckles, and you turn your attention to Sabo.

“You and Ace needn’t stay,” you point out. “If you’ve work to attend to, neither of us are at risk, your grace.”

Sabo had been leaning back in the chair since Karasu left, eyes closed. He opens one eye and looks over at you for a second before closing it again.

“The last time I left you and Luffy unattended, there was an explosion.” The smile on his face and his teasing tone eases the weight of his words, but you still flush in embarrassment. Your official job had been to keep Luffy out of trouble.

Not join him in it.

His second day and there was a demolished building and two of you in the infirmary. It wasn’t directly your fault, nor was it his, but you couldn’t think of any argument against Sabo’s words.

“The good news is, Marco will arrive before the banquet. Dr. Nako’s concerns about the guests proclivity toward gossip won’t be an issue. There’s still plenty to be done, but this delay will not break anything.” Sabo clarifies, stretching and sitting up properly in the chair. “Teasing aside, my Lady, I am glad you and Luffy are safe.” He asserts, patting your hand in apology.

“Considering it was the cause,” Ace says, looking from Luffy to you. “Was the meld successful? I’m guessing so with backlash like that.”

“I think so.” You admit. “I was so focused on everything else, I didn’t think to ask Prince Lu how to verify anything. And… I was concerned that doing so would either cause an issue, or break the barrier spell.”

“When you cast a formless spell,” Sabo begins, letting manna flow around his fingers. It’s a bright collection of varying hues, though the colors of fire are the most prominent. “It usually shifts around like this.” The manna moves sluggishly around Sabo’s fingers, like water sitting atop nothing that’s being disrupted by his hand. “Once you meld your magic, a formless spell will easily slip into the shape of your focus.”

Sabo moves his hand into a grip position and the manna snaps into the shape of his sword. He moves it easily, and unlike the lazy shifting before, the magic stays in the shape of the sword, moving as he wills it.

Lifting your hand up, you cast formless magic as Sabo had instructed. It was the way most people learned to cast anything at all. Just getting a feel for manna was the first step, so it was easy enough to do.

The manna swirls, and shifts into a solid opalescent sphere. You expected it to take shape on its own, but with a second of concentration it turns into a shield.

“Can you… choose the shape?” Sabo questions and you keep your concentration on the shape and change it into a sword.

“Holy shit.” Ace murmurs, breaking your concentration as the manna scatters. He and Luffy are looming over Sabo, staring at you in open wonder.

“Is… is that another problem?” You question hesitantly.

“No,” Sabo answers.

“Not really.” Ace answers at the same time.

Neither one of them are looking at you. You shift your gaze to Luffy and he immediately sucks both of his lips into his mouth and looks away from you. You swear you can see him start to sweat. There’s a tense couple of seconds before Sabo sighs heavily.

“What happened before is… something I’ve never heard of.” Sabo explains, finally meeting your eyes. “But what you did just now is fairly common.”

He hesitates.

“Among sword masters.” Ace finishes for him.

“It could very well be an effect of your father’s sword style.” Sabo adds hastily. You can tell from his tone and expression that he’s hoping that is exactly the case. “Lulusia’s norther border knights protect their fighting style fiercely, and while others have witnessed it - as we had thanks to you - learning it is another matter entirely.”

“In all things, it is the foundation that matters.” You recite the words, giving everyone a sympathetic shrug. “I will assume that then, and try not to dwell on it. Returning to Lulusia’s northern border would be almost impossible at this point. Especially if all I mean to do is ask a simple question.”

“Sadly, yes.” Sabo agrees.

There’s a knock at the door. “Oi! Someone open up, my arms are full!” Koala’s voice calls out from the other side of the door. Luffy stretches out, opening the door before anyone else can move and Koala steps in with an armful of paper work, a quill and capped ink pot balanced atop the stack.

“Here’s what you asked for, your grace.” She says, a teasing tone dripping off her words as she sets the paperwork down on a nearby desk with just enough space to handle it. “I have a couple knights bringing in a proper desk and I’ve tasked a few more to help me bring in the rest of it.”

“Koala, I - what makes you think I need my entire desk in here?” Sabo questions, standing up to face her.

“When Lady Lulusia was attacked, it took Hack and I two hours to convince you that you did not have to forego-.”

“Point made!” Sabo exclaims quickly. “Koala, mercy.”

Grinning she hums, and steps over to your bed. “My dearest Lady Lulusia, if you need anything of me, please let me know. His grace has me running ragged over this entire estate,” she begins, dramatically emphasizing her words.

“Because I trust you to get it done.” Sabo interjects, his back to you both. You think he might be pinching the bridge of his nose, but you are certain he’s trying to hide the rush of blood into his fair face.

“But you need only say the word and I will be here, to tend to you, way way better than anyone else.” She asserts, grinning even as she turns toward Sabo.

“I believe that’s the opposite of mercy, Koala.” You chastise lightly, a smile on your lips and in your tone. “I am fine. Just some bruising and a few cracked ribs, it’s nothing serious. It was my own fault, and I’m lucky that Prince Luffy was there with me.”

“If you say as much, my Lady, then so it is.”

“I think I’m the only Grand Duke on all the continents to have more authority outside of his own home than within it.” Sabo laments, turning toward you and Koala. He’s mostly composed himself and the expression on his face is somewhere between stern and still hoping for mercy from his own staff.

“Will you please ask the kitchen staff to cook something as quickly as they can and bring it here?” He requests. “Ace and I will collect extra pillows and some tray tables so Lady Lulusia and Luffy can eat comfortably while they rest.”

“Certainly, your grace.” Koala nods. “Will we be needing adjustments to the dress for the banquet?”

You and Sabo shake your heads at the same time. “Marco will be arriving earlier than expected,” Sabo explains. “There will be no need to accommodate bandages or splints.”

“Very well, your grace.” Koala inclines her head to him before bowing to you. “My Lady, I will return with food as quickly as I can.”

“Thank you, Koala.” You reply, trying not to sound like you were actually the lord of the estate.

Koala leaves and you have to look away when Sabo looks at you. After a moment you smile, pulling the blanket of the bed up a little before you speak.

“I promise to treat you fairly once I’ve usurped your position, your grace.”

Sabo’s face flushes out to his ears, and you realize you’ll have to ask Koala if she teases him because of how cute he looks when he blushes, or if she simply enjoys tormenting him.

[dragons-clause]

The Dragon's Clause

Sabo x Fem Reader

CW: Forced marriage, intrigue, character death, fantasy violence, blood, magic, language, smut, 18+ mdni

Tag List: @mfreedomstuff @manachiichan @sleepykittycx

Chapter 18: Buried Secrets

Years of fighting was the only thing that had saved him.

Sabo and Ace both managed to put their shields up before the concussive blast had shot out of the prison’s entrance. The long stone hall that led down into the training area acted like a canon, but neither of the two Grandmaster swordsmen feared such a thing.

“No!” Sabo scrambles to his feet, only to be tackled by Ace.

“Wait!” Ace bats away Sabo’s hand, adjusting his frantic grip and lifting the Duke up off the ground.

“She’s-!” Sabo starts to yell before Ace slams him back down into the ground. Even in his frantic state, Sabo gets his arms up to defend himself before he’s crashed into the dirt.

“So’s Lu!” Ace bellows, desperately trying to pin the frantic beast beneath him. The heavy slam barely even slowed Sabo down, but the two were similar in size, and Ace had the advantage now that he was atop the Duke. “Luffy’s down there too! Wait!”

“She’s…” A shuddering breath leaves Sabo, arms still reaching for the corridor even as he relaxes. “She’s with Luffy.” He asserts, clenching his fist and closing his eyes.

“She is.” Ace repeats, loosening his grip only a little as Sabo relaxes. “She’s-.”

A terrible groan gurgles up from the hall just before the two watch the interior section of the hall collapse.

Ace and Sabo stay still and quiet for a moment, waiting for any other signs of instability. There’s a minute of silence, and then the sounds of the estate reacting to the explosion begin to bustle around them. Standing up, Ace offers a hand to Sabo and pulls him up to his feet.

“Thank you.” Sabo says, pulling Ace into a quick hug before stepping back. “Karasu!”

“Your Grace!” Koala calls out. She’s running over to them while Hack coordinates most of the estate to begin assessing the damages. “What happened?”

“I can only speculate.” Sabo says as Karasu coalescences beside him. “The training grounds are likely the source.” He looks up at Karasu. “My brother and my fiance are down there, Karasu, please do your best.”

A curt nod is all the reaction Karasu provides before vanishing into a cloud of ash.

Koala pales, hands over her mouth. “The Lady Lulusia is-.”

“Luffy’s with her.” Ace and Sabo say at the same time.

She fidgets for a second, looking from the ruined hall to the two in front of her. “What can I do?”

“Distribute the snails. Have Hack help you coordinate the guards.” Sabo orders, walking with Koala and Ace toward Hack even as he speaks. “Secure the area around the prison, and then work your way out. I don’t think there was any external cause for this but I want to verify that. Sweep the estate and the employee grounds.”

Sabo looks to Ace. “Once we know what we’re dealing with, I could use your assistance. We’re the only two Grandmasters left.”

Ace nods, patting Sabo’s shoulder. “Of course.”

Sabo looks back to the prison, fists tightening against his gloves.

.

.

.

.

You gasp in a mouthful of dusty air, coughing as you roll onto your side. Your entire body ached, but the pain was reassuring. Knights who were mortally injured often lost feeling entirely, and they complained that they felt cold. When you hurt so much you thought death would be preferable, then there was a good chance of pulling through.

The whole thing had happened so fast you could barely hold onto the details. Prince Lu watched your manna and started to direct you into melding it. You managed, as far as you could remember, but then the flow surged.

Something like that was why you had been practicing in this space in the first place. The seastone walls didn’t absorb magic, and they didn’t reflect it. They nullified it. Meaning that once the surge of manna had hit the stones it should’ve been inert.

“Luffy?” You question softly.

“Yeah! You’re awake. Good.” He replies, and your eyes start to adjust to your surroundings a little more. Not that you can scarcely believe what you’re seeing.

Luffy’s arms, legs, fingers, and toes are stretched out above you, creating a net that’s holding most of the room in place. Motes of lights were shifting in the air as well, illuminating the space he’d created. It was absurd. Completely inane, and horribly unsettling, but it was working.

In a way.

“Prince Lu… are the stones hurting you?” You question, releasing your own motes of light into the air as you stand up. Your body groans against the pain, but your legs don’t buckle, and the throbbing ache becomes dull quickly.

Now’s not the time to be bothered by it anyway. The dome that Luffy’s forcefully created is massive, but the longer you look, the more you can see the issue.

“Yeah.” You can hear the strain in the single word. Watching carefully you can see the shiver in his net before new manna corrects it.

“You shouldn’t do that, then.” You offer carefully. Taking in more of the space you’re certain your surge is the cause, everything in the training room was blown to the edges of the dome. Even you. Luffy alone had faced down the force of it well enough to create the net.

If you had been alone you would’ve needed to be incredibly lucky.

“It might cave in.” He says it so flatly you aren’t sure what to do with it. The fearlessness is commendable, and useful currently, but you feel that a little concern is warranted.

“Let’s… let’s test it.” You offer, stepping to the center of the room. “I can put up a large shield and buy you time to stretch again if it caves, but I think it’s settled.”

“Ready?”

“Yeah.” You say casting your spell as Luffy’s body retracts from the stones. He has a lot of manna, but he was effectively burning it continually to force his shape against the magic negating stones.

Eventually he would’ve run out of his own internal reserves, and then the ambient manna would’ve been used up and you would’ve been in complete darkness. Assuming the ceiling didn’t cave in immediately.

You both tense as the shield expands, stopping just short of the space Luffy had created, and the stones shift and groan. The movement is slight, but it won’t take much to bring the whole dome crashing down. Luffy’s body is already starting to stretch again, but he snaps back into his usual size, taking a step forward.

He looks truly feral. Not only are you both covered in dirt and scrapes, but the only pieces of his clothing to survive his specialization are about half of his pants, and scraps of his tunic.

“Hey.” Luffy says, pointing to the edge of your shield. “Is that?”

Following his gaze you notice small bits of seastone sliding down the outside of your barrier.

“Eh?” It wasn’t punching through the shield, and it wasn’t carving a groove against your own manna usage either. “Is… that’s not possible.”

“Can you go higher?” Luffy questions and you nod, understanding his meaning.

“I can’t push it away, but I might be able to stabilize it more.” You admit, slowly pushing your shield up higher.

You and Luffy watch as your shield pushes the unstable stones back into the ceiling of the dome. The implications make your stomach knot. You knew of seastone before coming to the Duke’s estate, but you didn’t know how it functioned until he explained it to you when you had first begun your training.

No style of magic, from cantrips to Specializations, could stand up to the nullifying power of the stone. It was rare, almost all of it was used in either alloy shackles, or mixed into mortar. A few quarries had veins of seastone that meandered through stone and marble, small amounts, but enough to make the stones expensive, and useful in buildings like this one.

Enough to nullify any magic pressed against them.

“Oi!” Luffy grabs your attention and you focus back on the shield before it dissipates from your lack of concentration.

“It’s… It’s not being negated.” You murmur as motes of light hover just below the dome of your shield.

“Nope!” He replies cheerfully.

“My shield is touching the stone.”

“Yup!” Luffy laughs. “That’s amazing!”

“Ah, ha ha. Yes.” You nod, trying not to let the weight of how amazing that is crush you before the rubble can. “Amazing.”

Sitting down hard, you keep staring up at the ceiling, desperate to keep your focus on your shield spell, and not the tons of rock it’s holding back. Rock it shouldn’t be able to hold back. Rock specifically designed to undo and ruin any weave or potency of magic fashioned by man, beast, or saint.

“Any idea how?” You mean to ask more clearly, but you’re struggling to keep focus on the shield you’re so discombobulated.

Luffy tilts his head, deep in thought for a solid second. “Nope!”

The sudden declaration pulls a soft laugh from you as you start to relax. Luffy’s lack of concern is easing your own fears, and you don’t care to analyze that any further.

“I guess… we wait for rescue, then.” You hum, keeping most of your concentration on maintaining your shield. “I might be able to hold it back, but I can’t see past all this rock, I’d hate to hurt someone trying to break free.”

Luffy sits down nearby. “Yeah. Sabo an’ Ace’ll figure something out.” He sighs a bit dramatically, but his tone is resigned. “Waiting is so boring.”

“Can you… tell me about them?” You prompt, looking over at Luffy. “I may be asking too much, but I would love to know about the - er- your brothers, from your perspective.”

Luffy grins. “Ace stopped me last night, but we all met ‘cause we were runnin’ away.” He admits, laying down and stretching out. “I didn’t want to be king, and gramps was really pushy about it. Ace…” He pauses, and shakes his head. “Ah, Sabo was running away from home ‘cause his parents are awful.

“We spent months ‘missing’,” Luffy laughs deviously. “We got scolded for weeks, but we were already sworn brothers by then.”

“Gramps said it was good in the end cause relations improved between Goa an’ Dawn.” He continues. “Sabo’s folks seem to agree, but,” Luffy’s brows furrow, and you can feel the anger rolling off him. “They’re not good people.”

“No,” you agree. “They’re not.”

“Ah, the shield,” Luffy says, sitting up and looking at you. “Focus on the shield.”

“I… am?” You tilt your head questioningly when Luffy looks just past you.

“Good, you’re both alive.” The sudden deep voice makes your whole body go stiff, and your focus on the spell flickers, but Luffy’s warning is enough for you to keep it going. The shift in his gaze had been just enough warning to keep you from screeching in surprise at the sudden voice.

A very tall, impressively pale man, has manifested from thin air behind you. A large dark and feathery cape is all you can really make out in terms of clothes.

“It took me overlong to find a safe path through the rubble, but,” he stops, looking around and taking in the situation quickly. “I’m relieved I can report good news to the Duke.”

“How?” You meant to use more words, but they’re at a premium, and luckily both Luffy and this man seem to be able to infer your confusion easily enough.

“I can become very fine ash, my lady.” He says with a polite bow. “Fortunately, the path needed to reach you is short enough I have the manna left to return, but I cannot turn others into ash. How long can you maintain that shield, Lady Lulusia?”

“Likely longer than the oxygen will last.” You admit stoically.

“Worry not, my lady, the Duke will see you both safe.” He asserts, bowing once more before disappearing into ash.

“Oh.” You turn back to Luffy with a sigh. “I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that.”

“You will.” Luffy says, laying on his back and staring up at your shield. You weren’t using any more manna, or concentration than you needed, so the dome was large for a parasol, but not as big as you could make it. “Sabo an’ Ace turn into fire all the time at the border.”

.

.

.

.

Sabo feels his stomach knot as Karasu forms in front of him. Karasu takes a moment to look around, assessing the area before saying anything.

“They are alive, your grace.”

Sabo lets out a breath he barely realized he was holding in, and Ace puts his arms up in quiet celebration.

“Given the state of the immediate area, it seems Prince Luffy’s swift actions created a suitable area for them. They are injured, severe bruising and some deep scrapes, but no apparent broken bones and both are in good spirits.” He reports. “That said, your grace.”

Karasu pauses again, looking around once more before lowering his voice.

“I think it would be prudent to limit who can see them upon rescue.” He asserts before raising his voice back to its usual volume. “I can provide a diagram so you can begin a safe excavation.”

“Please do so. Once you’ve completed the diagram check in with Koala, Hack and Margrave Lindbergh. Please let him know that it is my request he make himself comfortable in the most advantageous location he desires.”

Karasu bows deeply. “Certainly.” He agrees before turning into a flock of ash-crows and dispersing. A few crows hang around, quickly and accurately drawing diagrams into papers that were already weighed down onto a nearby table.

“Leave it to Lu to go all out.” Ace hums, looking at the size of the dome that had been created. “We could go in from the roof.”

Sabo shakes his head. “We can’t control the integrity of the roof enough. Plus… it could leave things exposed.”

“Ah.” Ace looks up from the diagram over to the building, pointing as he speaks. “Thats this wall, right? And then that’s this one.” Sabo nods and Ace taps the back wall. “This is up against the estate then?”

“It is. It’s a thicker wall, so I think this is our second fastest route.” Sabo taps the diagram. “I wish Morley were here.”

“Wishes and horses, brother.” Ace laments before he begins stretching.

.

.

.

.

“What’s it like fighting the beasts?” You question Luffy a few minutes after the big guy with the ash specialization leaves.

“Scary,” Luffy replies easily. He has a smile on his face, but you don’t think he’s teasing you. “The first time it can be really scary. They’re bigger than you expect, and really angry. There’s nothing else there, and that’s kinda the scary part.”

“Nothing else there?”

Luffy’s smile falters. “No fear or joy.” He gives you an apologetic look. “It’s scary.”

“Yeah… I imagine it would be.” You agree. “It… it’s not the same thing, but it makes me think of the notion that nobles ought be stoic. That emotions are meant to be controlled until they’re effectively just not there.”

Luffy hums. “Sabo’s not a fan either.”

You laugh. “Of the nobility, or the beasts?”

He just laughs in response, something that was both light and mischievous at the same time, and you feel like that’s answer enough.

“I’m… quite fond of him.” You admit a few moments later, your eyes on the ceiling and the shield above the two of you. Luffy had sprawled out on his back and you had joined him. “It’s only been a few months, but he’s quite…ah… honorable.”

“He trusts you too,” Luffy says, looking over and grinning at you. “Sabo wouldn’t have invited Ace an’ I if he didn’t.”

“… Well. That… thank you.” You murmur softly, making sure to focus on the shield, and not the heat rushing up to your face.

You aren’t sure what else to talk about. Luffy is a captive audience, in a manner of speaking, and you don’t want to harangue him for details when he doesn’t have a way to get away from you. At the same time you need some manner of conversation to help keep you awake.

If you fall asleep, you’ll lose concentration on the spell. It’s only been a couple hours, all told, your own manna reserves were going strong, but the air was stale, and the stress of being trapped was weighing on you. Your body wanted to shut down and sleep because it needed to heal, but you had to stay awake.

“I grew up on Lulusia’s northern border,” your voice is quiet, but you know Luffy’s listening. “The knights had me practicing sword forms before I could even say their names. I could swing a wooden sword before I could hold a fork properly.”

“I miss it.” Your voice trembles. “Them. My father.” Sighing you wipe your eyes. “My apologies.”

“You don’t have to pretend around us.” Luffy hums, sitting up. “Do you hear that?”

Concentrating for a moment, straining to hear what caught Luffy’s attention you do hear something. It’s so soft it’s hard to say what it is, but more than being able to hear anything, you can feel the shivers of an impact.

“Is… someone punching their way in?”

Luffy’s mischievous laugh has an explanation with it this time, not that it does you much good.

“Sabo’s dragon claw.” He tries to explain further by making a gesture with his hands. To his credit it has the appearance of a claw, his ring finger and pinkie are pressed against one another, and his middle finger and index finger are as well. It looks like a three-taloned claw instead of a hand.

Luffy gets to his feet, and you follow his lead, stepping away from the wall where the noise was beginning to clearly come from.

“Does his hand transform?” You question and Luffy just laughs.

The stones in front of you and Luffy begin to crack and you can hear the muffled sounds of Sabo and Ace on the other side. You can’t even begin to think how they managed to excavate so much seastone. They were both Grandmaster Swordsmen, and you knew from your time at the border that the aura utilized by Grandmasters was different from magic.

Maybe that’s what Sabo was using right now.

The small cracks become massive ones, and the sound of stones breaking is much louder. It only takes a moment and Sabo’s hand, in a form similar to what Luffy had shown you, breaks through the rock.

“Finally!” You hear Sabo say on the other side. Relief hits you like a hammer as he uses the same technique to connect his tunnel with the room you and Luffy were in.

The rocks give way and the Duke steps through, giving a cursory glance to the entryway he’d created, before looking at you and Luffy.

“Your Grace-.” Your words vanish as Sabo’s arms wrap around you.

One of his hands is cradling the back of your head, and another is against your body. You can feel how tense he is, down to his fingers, but his grip is soft, trembling against your hair. The sudden proximity has blood rushing to your cheeks, and you reach around him carefully, returning the tender embrace.

“You’re safe.” The words are more for himself than a question for you, but you nod softly, sinking into the relief with him.

[dragons-clause]

The Dragon's Clause

Sabo x Fem Reader

CW: Forced marriage, intrigue, character death, fantasy violence, blood, magic, language, smut, 18+ mdni

Tag List: @mfreedomstuff @manachiichan @sleepykittycx

Chapter 17: Unique

“How long have they been going?” Sabo asks, stepping up beside Ace.

The crown Prince was in sparring clothes, though from the looks of him he hadn’t gotten a chance to spar as yet. He’s standing with several members of the Duke’s guard, most of whom are agog, watching you and Luffy spar.

“The first round was five minutes,” Ace answers. “Luffy used his Specialization to block a strike and defaulted the point to Lady Lulusia. This round is going on to minute,” he looks down at the pocket watch in his hand. “Twenty-seven.”

“Twenty-!” Sabo’s eyes go wide and he looks back to you and Luffy. Both of you have wide smiles on your faces, and you’re both so focused on one another there’s no way you know he’s there. The two of you might not even know the rest of the world exists, currently, so focused are you on one another.

Luffy was the perfect sparring partner for you. Sabo hadn’t been exaggerating when he said that the young Prince fought like a beast. You wanted to meld your magic with your sword as fast as possible, so that he could really go all out. If you could dance like this with Luffy when he wasn’t holding back, you were sure you wouldn’t have anything to fear at the border.

“She puts weights in her dresses.” Sabo says, prompting Ace to look over at him. “Koala told me. A habit from her childhood, apparently. Since she wanted to be a strong border knight like her father. With the exception of a given party or event, she’s weighed down almost constantly.”

“Not a bad way to build stamina in the long run, if you do it properly.” Ace admits, looking back to the fight. “Especially if she was trying to maintain her strength secretly.”

The longer you fight with Luffy, the more you can see. There’s ferocity in the wide smile on his face, but not a hint of malice. The more you can see, the more he throws at you. Despite the length of the match, you were certain that you couldn’t ever win. Not in the strictest sense.

Not that you were losing by any true definition of the word either. The result was of little consequence.

The joy of the fight was the point.

You step back and stagger. Dizziness slams into you and you take a knee as the extreme exertion wobbles your muscles all at once. Luffy’s fist stops just before it would’ve connected with your face, but the pressure behind it was quite the rush of air. The vertigo passes as quickly as it hit, but now that your focus is broken you can feel the exhaustion in your limbs.

“Are you alright?” Sabo asks, coming over and offering a hand as you start to stand up.

“Yes, I… hit a wall of sorts.” You admit, accepting his assistance as your legs shiver under your weight. You hadn’t realized how exhausted your muscles were, you were so focused on fighting. Accepting Sabo’s assistance, you manage to sit on a nearby bench. You can feel the sweat running down your back, and while you knew the Duke was aware how sparring worked, you still found yourself uncomfortably conscious of your current state.

Luffy wipes sweat from his face, still smiling brightly. “Whew! That was fun!”

“Indeed,” you agree, taking an offered glass of water from one of the estate guards. “I haven’t ever had a match like that.” You take a few large gulps, setting aside your etiquette in your thirst. “My apologies, Prince Ace, I don’t think I’ll be able to spar with you today.”

“Tomorrow is fine,” Ace assures you. “I haven’t seen someone go that long with Luffy since we sparred with the knights in Germa.”

“Oh that one swordsman?” Sabo questions. “Germa’s new king called it after an hour, if I remember right.”

Ace laughs and so does Luffy. “Yeah, he wanted to fight Luffy, but then they both fell out.”

“Fighting with Zoro was a lot of fun,” Luffy agrees.

“My new goal then, it seems.” You say. “After I meld my magic.” You add hastily before Sabo can say anything.

“There are worse goals to strive for,” Sabo agrees, a sheepish look on his face. “But Luffy and Zoro are monsters, Lady Lulusia, so please take care not to risk your own health in the process.”

“I shall endeavor to continue to prioritize my health, your Grace, I promise.” You reassure him with a wry grin.

“Breakfast then?” Ace prompts.

“Time to freshen up,” you correct, standing up and taking a second to make sure your legs were steady before giving them all a small bow. “With Koala’s assistance I won’t be long, but don’t delay the meal for my sake if you’re hungry.” You smile at Sabo as he offers an arm and shake your head. “Thank you, your Grace, but I should be alright.”

“We shan’t starve,” Ace hums as you head into the estate. “C’mon Lu, let’s get you freshened up, too. We’re guests, after all.”

Koala was able to help you get a quick, slightly cool, bath. After which you changed into something that was similar to your sparring clothing. The simple dress was light in the skirts, with thin pants under it, supple boots, and snug leather vest with a tunic under it. It was simpler than your daily dresses, and even a little less fuss than your sparring clothes.

It was also very comfortable, and sitting in the dungeon basement of the estate for a couple hours meditating meant you were happy to have any advantaged in comfort you could find.

Breakfast was as much as you had expected. After dinner the night before you were expecting breakfast to be at least half a banquet, and you weren’t let down. You ended up eating quite a lot yourself, because the intensity of your match with Luffy had left you ravenously hungry. When you requested a second plate you considered maybe Luffy’s appetite was a function of his seemingly endless energy.

After breakfast all three of them came with you down to the underground training area.

“It really does feel more like a dungeon, than training grounds.” Ace says, looking around. “I haven’t been down here in ages.”

“I mean, it was a dungeon first.” Sabo asserts. “I hope this isn’t too much pressure, Lady Lulusia. Prince Ace and Luffy are here to help, but I only mean to stay long enough to assess your progress.”

“Not at all. I feel like I’ve plateaued, the more eyes the better, I suppose.” You reply, sitting down on the pillow you had been using the last couple months.

Crossing your ankles, and clasping your hands, you close your eyes and focus on the manna around you and inside you. With Ace, Luffy and Sabo in the space with you, you can “see” them as collections of manna.

“Oh.” You gasp quietly, and can see all three shift. “Koala has been assisting me, and she’s not a Specialist.” You say, eyes still shut as you try to stay focused. “I could see her silhouette, but with you three it is… very different.”

Koala had been little more than a vaguely Koala-shaped image in your mind’s eye, rimmed by a thick, dense line of light blue. Your assumption had been that someone’s skill, or their capacity for manna would alter the line, or even its color. Koala had been guiding you through the process of controlling and, eventually, melding your own manna that you hadn’t interrupted her to ask.

The three in the room with you right now, however, were a very different story. You could see nearly every detail. The way magic pulsed and shifted within them, the way it swirled around them. You could see their effect on the manna in the air, and how it reacted to each of them.

Fire roared within the lines that defined Sabo, the occasional mote of manna pulled from the air around him into the vortex within. A similar fire roared within Ace, but the furious swirl pushed past the lines that defined him, licking at the ambient motes in the air, feeding on them.

Luffy was a cacophony of rainbows and bursts of white light that escaped the lines of his body easily, but as easily as manna left him, it came into him. The exchange was a dance that maintained a careful balance.

You wanted to move with it, but if you stopped focusing you weren’t going to be able to see it.

“You can see us?” Sabo questions, the tone of his voice breaking your concentration. Opening your eyes, you look up at the three of them.

“Yes.”

“Koala didn’t mention you had magic sense.”

“I… didn’t tell her.” You admit, looking away a little guiltily. “It happened as soon as I started focusing like she had instructed and I assumed it was normal.”

“Normal, yes.” He admits. “But not common. Among border knights I’d say it’s less than fifty percent. Even with instruction it can be difficult.”

“Most people don’t see anything that’s really all that defined.” Ace adds. “It’s more like you can see the general flow of manna shift, and then an attack comes in behind that. You learn how to observe the shifts in ambient manna and you can react better.”

“It seems all your secret training paid off.” Sabo says with a smile. “Please, return to your focusing, let us see how you’ve progressed.”

“You can see that way as well?” You question, closing your eyes and trying not to over think anything.

“Luffy better than Ace and I,” Sabo answers. “Though I feel like now I’m practically required to start working on it, lest you manage to truly best me in future sparring matches, Lady Lulusia.”

“If you can push your skill into clairvoyance, you can start preparing for expeditions north before you get the command.” Ace says with a grin.

“I’ve enough dealing with the here and now,” Sabo replies, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“You’re close.” Luffy says suddenly, pointing to you, and causing Sabo and Ace to focus. “Your flow is stable, you just need to let it out.”

“Exceptional.” Sabo says softly. “I didn’t want to burden you with typical progression time lines, but you’re certainly progressing at the head of the class.”

“Even if you don’t successfully meld before Sabo’s expedition, you should manage shortly after just fine.” Ace agrees. “What’s-.”

“Lady Lulusia, can you cast a spell for us?” Sabo interrupts. “Something advanced. Ah, Shield, if you would. That’s usually the first advanced spell noble children learn.”

You nod, weaving the spell into existence. A verbal statement, or a gesture was often used to help someone focus the cast, but it wasn’t required. You were already in a state of focus, so you let the familiar spell shift and form around you.

“Whoa.” Ace murmurs.

Opening your eyes you look around, tilting your head in confusion. “Is there an issue?”

Sabo’s gaze, everyone’s actually, is on the shimmer of the magic barrier around you. Shield was a versatile and effective spell. The manna requirement was low, and while the most durable version forced you to stay stationary, it was possible to create something more like a mundane shield with it, allowing you mobility in exchange for less coverage.

The Duke shakes his head. “Not at all,” he assures you, his gaze shifting away from the barrier and to your eyes. “It’s a shame you weren’t given permission to pursue magic more. Your control and efficiency are all high marks. I won’t be surprised if you discover your own Specialization in the next year or so.”

Your eyes widen. “Truly?”

Ace and Sabo nod, and Luffy grins.

“You were wise to keep your training to yourself, however. If your uncle had known, it’s hard to say what he would’ve done.” Sabo admits, concern on his face. “If he were wise he might have petitioned to remove you from the bloodlines, and put you on Lulusia’s northern border.”

“I imagine such a petition isn’t easy.” You sigh, wishing you had known about that option a few years ago. Even so, you aren’t sure you would’ve known how to approach your Uncle about it regardless.

In the end, things had worked out well.

“Do you know why your manna sparkles though?” Luffy asks as you release the shield. He’s reaching out with his fingers, making the residual manna of your advance magic shift in the air.

“Doesn’t… doesn’t everyone’s?” You question. “My father always said that advanced magic left a kind of residue behind, and certain people would be able to know what was cast, and by whom.”

Sabo’s brows furrow, him and the other two are quiet for a long moment. “I suppose there could be, but I’ve never heard of such a thing.”

“It’s already gone though,” Luffy adds. “I don’t think you gotta worry about it hanging around.”

Your brows knit. “That’s…”

“Your father may know something we don’t.” Sabo offers gently. “There’s a lot of magical knowledge that is known only within the Empire. He may have felt it was better to err on the side of caution.”

Sighing softly, you nod. “Perhaps.”

“Something to focus on might help.” Ace says, clearing his throat. “For your melding. Let me go get you a sword. Lu can see your manna better than me, so he can stay here.” Ace turns to Sabo. “You have a lot of work, so let’s go before we all brood over something we can’t answer right now.”

A laugh from Luffy adds more levity to Ace’s change in topic and you can feel the tension leaving your muscles. You never had a reason to doubt your father before, and so whatever reason he had for it, there was no reason to take it negatively.

You turn to Luffy as Sabo and Ace leave. “Your manna shifts in and out quite freely, how do you do that?”

Shrugging, Luffy sits down across from you. Concentration furrows his brow and you can see his face start to change color as he ponders your question deeply. You’ve never seen someone think so animatedly before now.

“I can hold onto it, if I need to, like how Ace does.” He says after a moment. “And I can pull it in like Sabo does. But…” Luffy sighs, looking dejected. “I just do it. Ace says I make a lousy teacher, sorry Lady Lu.”

“Instinct vs. formal education.” You sigh along with him. “Well, maybe watch mine while I move it? Just say whatever comes to mind?”

“Sure!”

.

.

.

.

“Well, you’re not going to be worried about the time line anymore.” Ace says as he and Sabo leave the basement. “At this rate she’s going to be leading her own squad before you’re married.”

“Heh,” Sabo’s expression shifts, and he looks back down the hall. “Have you ever seen that before?”

Ace shakes his head. “No. There’s differences in color, clarity, opaqueness, and shape, but I’ve never seen someone’s manna sparkle.”

“Me either.” Sabo’s quiet for a moment. “Do you think you could reach out to the headmaster for me?”

“He should be at the engagement party,” Ace says with a crooked grin. “He stepped down from his position, and came to The Dawn Kingdom just a couple weeks ago. He’s officially our Royal Magus now.”

“Oh? Congratulations then. I thought he was going to retire and leave the continent.” Sabo hums. “Something about having his fill of brats and intrigue.”

“She convinced him. Said it would make the change from Garp to me go more smoothly, and I guess he agreed.” Ace explains with a shrug. “Still, I can wait until we get back to the castle. Keep any prying eyes and ears from connecting things.”

“Yes please. I’m going to have Karasu reach out to my network as well.” He looks back down the hall before pushing the main doors open.

“You got it bad.” Ace teases as sunlight washes over them.

Sabo looks over at Ace and the Crown Prince’s eyes go wide in understanding. A matching wide smile slips over Ace’s lips and Sabo’s ears go pink.

“I - she… Look-.”

The explosion shudders the ground, rippling through the entire estate and nearly knocking Ace and Sabo off their feet. A loud, thunderous rumble gurgles up from below, and on its heels is a terrible blast of concussive force. The force of the explosion launches Ace and Sabo out into the training grounds, jettisoning loose dirt and debris into the air.

[dragons-clause]

The Dragon's Clause

Sabo x Fem Reader

CW: Forced marriage, intrigue, character death, fantasy violence, blood, magic, language, smut, 18+ mdni

Tag List: @mfreedomstuff @manachiichan @sleepykittycx

Chapter 16: Luffy and Ace

When you were a child, living at the borders with your father and the other knights, you had certainly seen men who could eat. The border knights weren’t beasts at the table, but they were a far cry from the nobility. Every table you sat at was full of life, laughter, and food.

Yet you’re fairly certain the knights themselves would’ve gone silent watching Luffy eat.

He was no beast, but the chaos was impressive, and your first proper meal with the visiting princes was far beyond anything that the Duke could have hoped to prepare you for. Which probably explained why he didn’t even try.

Walking into the dining room after a couple hours in the Duke’s tea room, listening to Luffy and Ace talk about their journey from the Dawn Kingdom to here, you had been a bit taken aback by the sheer amount of food on the table. It looked like there was a feast for the entire estate laid out, but you didn’t say anything. To your credit you barely even missed a step coming into the dining room.

Sabo sat at the head of the table, you on his right, Ace on his left, and Luffy next to Ace.

A choice made purely for safety’s sake.

Luffy’s arm stretched the length of the table, and he began his meal from the food at the far end of the table. Years of effort in mitigating your reactions and managing your expressions for various reasons, and your eyebrows still nearly rose off your face for a second.

To his credit there wasn’t a single wasted movement, and while you were expecting him to unhinge his jaw, he did not.

“I understand more now.” You say as evenly as you can manage and Ace laughs.

“Did Sabo forewarn you?” Ace questions and you shake your head.

“Not particularly.” Answering Ace, you glance over at Sabo, who seems to be focused on eating properly.

“I’m impressed then,” Ace admits, taking a bite before continuing. “Most people drop their cutlery at the very least. A few people have even felt insulted.”

“It is… unique.” You say after a moment’s consideration. “Is it a condition of your Specialization, or something else?” You pose your question to everyone, but you look at Luffy.

There’s a moment’s confusion on his face before he swallows what he had been eating. “I’ve always eaten a lot,” he admits with a shrug. “I’m a Supernal.”

For the second time that meal your eyes go wide. Ace and Sabo flinch, but Luffy just goes back to eating. You look to the other two, Ace is looking at Luffy, and Sabo’s brows are knit, and both look unsure if they should say something or not.

A Supernal was someone who was seemingly born with Specialized magic.

Infants who caught onto cantrips were fairly common, and were often referred to as Callings. Cantrip usage was woven into a lot of everyday life, but Callings often held the most promise for learning Advanced magic, and if the opportunity arose, were more likely to develop Specialized magic over others. A good number of noble children were Callings simply because they were surrounded by more magic use in general than other children.

Supernal children weren’t always Callings, but they were any child who manifested Specialized magic prior to learning Advanced magic. The number of publicly known Supernals was a single digit, across all the continents. They were one of three titles someone could earn that often resulted in them becoming a citizen of the Empire; Supernals, Saints, and Heroes, often whether they wished to be, or not.

Of the three, only the title of Hero could be bestowed on someone, and the current King of the Dawn Kingdom was the only person with the title of Hero who had declined citizenship into the Empire.

As far as you knew, everyone else had accepted the additional benefits when offered.

“So you’ve had that appetite your whole life.” You say in response and Luffy laughs.

“Yeah!”

You were pretty sure you could see Ace and Sabo both visibly relax, or maybe they both visibly aged, it was hard to say. You had a better understanding of Luffy, you just weren’t sure what that understanding was as yet. If he was simply fearless, or just that strong. Maybe his trust in his kingdom outweighed the concerns most people had in regards to the Empire.

Whatever the case, he had decided in a very short amount of time to trust you with such a heavy secret. Dropping such a heavy secret certainly took the edge off the experience of his voracious appetite.

“And just like that, you’re unbothered.” Ace hums a few moments after you return to your meal.

“I spent most of my childhood at the northern border,” you explain. “While not quite as… capable as prince Lu, the border knights were efficient when it was meal time.”

“Can we spar after dinner?” Luffy asks you, as he begins working on his second plate.

When you look to Sabo, you notice he’s looking to you, and you smile as you turn back to Luffy. “I don’t mind. It takes a while to change from something like this into proper sparring clothes. I usually practice and spar before breakfast, if you’d rather I could show you around the estate after dinner?”

“Me ‘n’ Ace ‘ave been here before.” Luffy says, the first few words mangled by the food he was gracefully keeping out of your view, even if you could hear it muffling his words.

“I’ve only been here for a few months, maybe you could show me some interesting places?” You offer and Luffy’s face lights up.

“You bet!”

“You only have a couple hours of sunlight left.” Sabo says. “If you want to have ample time to spar tomorrow before breakfast, don’t stray too far.”

“Is there anything we can do to help with the party?” Ace questions.

“No - I mean, yes, but no.” Sabo answers, taking a bite before continuing. “Lady Lulusia is working on melding, as I said before, I was hoping you two could help her.”

“Sparring before breakfast, melding after?” Ace questions looking from Sabo to you.

You nod. “In the, um…” Faltering, you realize you aren’t sure how much Ace and Luffy know about the estate and it’s lower levels. You assume everything, but you don’t want to be the one to give away the Duke’s secrets.

“They know,” Sabo assures you. “She’s been practicing in the dungeons. The Lady Lulusia was not given space to train her magic prior to coming here. We’ve been keeping the progress away from prying eyes.”

“His Grace has offered instruction when he can, but I would appreciate any assistance willingly given.” You add.

“Of course,” Ace answers. “Luffy might not be much help-.”

“Hey!”

“Since he functions off of instinct,” Ace continues on despite Luffy’s outburst. “But Sabo and I learned almost the same way, so I can help.”

“Almost?” You question, and Ace looks over at Sabo.

“I haven’t said anything, but you can tell her.” Sabo says easily, accepting his role as bridge between you. “Lady Lulusia has been accepted by Luffy, after all.”

You were reminded of when Sabo admitted that there were treaties and inter-kingdom-deals that had lived or died based on Luffy. The young prince had been ignorant of the depth of impact through his seemingly spontaneous statements, but such was his manner, and so trustworthy were his decisions, that it was hard to ignore them. While you and the Duke had been slowly becoming closer and closer over the last few months, there was a new level of trustworthiness that had been bestowed upon you the moment Luffy told you he was a Supernal.

Ace smiles and looks over at you as he begins his explanation, pausing occasionally to complete his meal. “The understanding of Specializations is that each is unique. From simple transformations, to feats that seem impossible even within the known laws of Advanced Magic, no two Specialists have the same magic.”

You nod. “Your Highness and his Grace made quite the stir,” you agree. “Not only for your ages, but for the similarities between your abilities.”

“Yeah,” Ace and Sabo both look a little nervous. “Things were… tense for a while.” He admits, clearing his throat before returning to his explanation. “While they look similar on the surface, they are different. My fire comes from within, from my core outward. Sabo’s is external, pulled into his core.”

“The end result is that we can both control and become fire,” Sabo interjects. “And we each have our own parameters to take into consideration as well.”

“It’s not information you want just anyone knowing,” Ace sighs. “So it made everything tense for a while until the newness of it started to fade.”

The ebb and flow of court focus could make or break an entire noble’s fortune. Kingdom borders had certainly changed on the weight of it before, though more often the impact was minimal. To be under that scrutiny was no easy feat.

A weight you were going to have to shoulder in a week’s time.

How you carried yourself, the clothing you wore, the words you spoke, the slightest expression on your face, was going to be evaluated by those in attendance. Some were invited specifically to help support you and the Duke, some were invited because there was no reason not to, but some were invited specifically because omitting them would be worse.

After dinner you and Luffy separated from Sabo and Ace, Luffy acting as your guide. The young prince didn’t stay inside the estate for any longer than it took him to leave it. You weren’t surprised, but you were kind of hoping he was going to show you some secret interior passage that you hadn’t been able to find on your own.

The first place he took you was a specific tree in the gardens, climbing up into it like it was more his home than anything else. In your dress all you could do was watch him disappear into the leaves, but a moment later he landed in front of you with a massive beetle in hand.

You couldn’t help but laugh. “Prince Lu, if you showed such a thing to most ladies they would be terrified.”

You pull a leaf out of his hair when he smiles. “You’re not though.”

“No, but I didn’t have a typical childhood.” You point out. “Is this the largest you’ve found here?”

Luffy shakes his head, putting the beetle back on the trunk of the tree. “Just the biggest one I could find today.” He admits before grabbing your wrist and pulling you along. “C’mon, there’s more and Sabo said not to stay out too late!”

Luffy had so much to show you that after your second stop at a sweet berry bush, he picked you up and ran to the next spot. You felt like you were little again, in a time before your father took you to the castle.

It wasn’t the same energy as the border guards, but it was similar. Mixed in with a completely unbridled sense of wonder and freedom. Luffy did show you a few places you hadn’t found on your own, though you hadn’t had time the last couple weeks to walk the gardens, never mind the grounds beyond them.

There was a small waterfall that fed into a pond. Luffy said you’d have to come back when there was more time, cause if he jumped into the water right now Sabo and Ace would scold him. He showed you a thicket of cherry trees that you needed to remember so that you could come back to them when they were in bloom.

By the time you returned to the estate, you had the odd leaf and twig stuck in your own clothes and hair, and you and Luffy were both laughing when Koala greeted you.

“Much longer and the Duke would’ve set out to find you both.” Her admonishment was so thin she was smiling, pulling the odd item from your dress.

“I’m sure he knew we were safe.” You assure her, point to Luffy before he can walk away. “Don’t take that into the estate, put it back on the tree Prince Lu.”

Koala tilts her head as Luffy sighs, pulling a beetle from his jacket. He looks so dejected, but you don’t need any of the staff finding it. Most of the maids came to Koala or one of the stable hands every time they found a bug, because they couldn’t deal with it themselves. They’d be screaming bloody murder over a stag beetle that large if Luffy lost track of it.

And despite his love for bugs and beetles, you were fairly certain he would lose track of it. Though perhaps not intentionally. There was no malice in his words or actions, as far as you could tell, but his capacity to focus on something wasn’t going to set any records.

It does make you wonder though, what is something that could hold his attention? Considering how keen he was to spar, you were pretty sure battle was at least one thing that could manage it.

.

.

.

.

Ace sits across from Sabo on the balcony of his room. The moonlight illuminates both of them, a rush of birds passing by in relative silence out over the main gate. The Crown Prince turns to his friend, drinking from the glass Sabo had offered.

“Any new news?”

Sabo shakes his head. “Mihawk is either in the wilds, or off the continent entirely. I can still barely believe it was him.”

“Well, he says that Mihawk was told that she was a devil in disguise.” Ace explains, giving an apologetic shrug. “Apparently he took the job, not just because of that, but because of your connection to Luffy.”

“He was worried for my safety?” Sabo can’t help but scoff.

“I mean, it was before our time, right? But even the headmaster didn’t like talking about them.” Ace asserts, taking another sip and pausing for a moment, the weight of his thoughts slowing his words. “Someone wants your fiance dead. There’s no other reason to tell Mihawk she’s a devil.”

Sabo sighs, nearly draining the glass in one go. “She’s alive because he wanted to be sure before he did anything. I wouldn’t have been able to…”

“Hey, what happened is what happened, don’t let the what if’s pull you under.” Ace says sternly, pointing at Sabo. “That’s what you’ve always said, yeah?”

Sabo grunts. “Fair. Any changes at the border?”

“Still the same steady increase we’ve been noticing.” Ace answers. “It’s slight, but you were right, the last five years we’ve marked every kill and the count is going up.”

“… Do we think it might be devils?”

“Maybe? The way they’ve talked about them though, I would expect it to be like,” Ace swings his arms out in front of himself. “Like a flood, you know? Slow and steady seems too kind.”

Silence falls between them for a moment as both of them fall into their own thoughts for a while.

“Planning on bringing her?” Ace questions, eyes up at the stars.

“Yeah.”

“Think she’ll be ready?”

“Yeah.”

“… Alright.”

[dragons-clause]

The Dragon's Clause

Sabo x Fem Reader

CW: Forced marriage, intrigue, character death, fantasy violence, blood, magic, language, smut, 18+ mdni

Tag List: @mfreedomstuff @manachiichan @sleepykittycx

Chapter 15: Regalia

The tensions between you and the Duke over the next week were grueling. You didn’t know what to do with yourself around him. The easy comfort had turned into a tumultuous emotion you weren’t sure you were ready to label, and currently your only consolation was that the Duke seemed every bit as affected as you were.

You still worked together the majority of the day, trying to keep pace with the day to day needs of the estate, and make sure the party would go smoothly. While you were still continuing your training in the mornings, by the time evening rolled around you found yourself eating dinner quietly with him. The silence that lingered between you was rarely uncomfortable, but if it was broken it was by talk of business.

You almost wished for a third person to join you, but both Hack and Koala were no where to be found during meal times.

A strange relief was found in the fact that you needed to try on the dresses for the party. Three had been made: one that was in the fashion of Lulusia, one in the fashion of Goa, and the third was based on the Duke’s own fashion preferences. Koala wouldn’t tell you which was which, but the idea was that you were to choose the one you liked the most.

Whether that decision was based on the aesthetics, or the comfort, was left for you to decide. Sabo would dress accordingly regardless of what you went with, and so there was no pressure put on you. At least not when it came to which one to pick.

Trying on the dresses, however, had been it’s own special kind of trial.

Never having had a débutante ball, and never having been to any social functions whose formality was beyond that of tea party, you’d not yet been dressed so intricately. Daily wear was a task when you were a duchess, but you still only needed one or two people to help you manage in a timely fashion.

The dresses for the engagement party required no less than six people, and the changing area had at least twenty assistants, plus you, the tailor, and Koala.

“This is absolute insanity.” You assert, giving Koala the best glare you could muster now that you were trying on the third and final dress.

“Thank you for holding onto your complaints until this one.”

“The wedding will be worse, won’t it?” You sigh, and three maids answer with hummed affirmations before Koala can even nod.

“You’ll have a better idea of what you prefer though, and more time.” Koala points out. “Once you choose from these we can start working on the wedding attire. You won’t need to try on much unless you’re undecided between several options.”

“A small consolation, but a consolation nonetheless.” You grumble.

It takes another twenty minutes to get you into the final dress, and you stand before the mirror. A smile plays its way onto your lips and you turn toward Koala.

“The second one.” You declare.

“Oh?” She prompts.

You nod. “This is the Lulusian style. The first was Goa - which is similar to Lulusia’s style. Unsurprising since they’re so close to one another. But the second one was what the Duke chose.”

“You sound quite certain, but you shouldn’t choose based just on that.” Koala reprimands you.

“I’m not.” You assert. “All of these were surprisingly comfortable, a testament to the skill with which they were fashioned,” You say with a smile, turning toward the tailor and her assistant. Natiatin was a short, but strong woman with tan skin and chaotically curly hair, she had sworn undying love toward you when you had joined her on a rant about Fleece Breath sheep’s wool.

Useful and versatile as it was, it was very difficult to work with. Since it had attributes of silk and wool, it had the disadvantages too. Her and her assistant, a young girl who stood taller than her boss with straight black hair and a gentle demeanor - you’d thought - until the woman had raged just as passionately as her boss, were both in a state of love/hate regarding the useful textile. Natiatin had simply referred to her as “Zee” and you weren’t sure if it was the letter, or an endearment from another kingdom, but they seemed close.

“I recognized the style on this one from Komane’s dresses. She didn’t go out much, but she still had a full run of dresses, considering her station.” You explain. “I can see the similarities between this and the first one - thus.” Putting your hand out toward Koala you leave the thought as it is.

Turning away from the mirror you turn toward the second dress. The one that Sabo had chosen the design and look of. If you had to wager an educated guess you’d say it was styled more in the fashion of the Dawn Kingdom, considering his ties with the royalty there. Such a blatant move wasn’t something he was known for, as far as you had come to understand, which meant it was more likely that it was homage to something else.

The only thing left was the Germa kingdom, where the Academy was located. Sabo, Ace, and Luffy had spent time there, and the current ruler was a close friend as well. It was a way to pay homage to his loyalties more subtly, and if anyone pushed, of course he was nostalgic for the yesteryears of school life. Besides, he didn’t choose the style, you did, and you had nothing to do with Germa, or the academy.

So the entire thing was nothing to be concerned about, certainly not from a political perspective.

“Ugh.” You can’t stop the sound as you sigh.

“The dress isn’t that bad.” Koala teases as she and the other maids start getting you back out of the elegant garment and back into your more simple daily dress.

“Ah, no. No, it’s not. It’s just the… politics of existing.” You sigh. “I was outside of it for the most part when I was just Komane’s attendant. Now… here I am worrying about the political impact of lace.”

“Kingdoms have fallen over less,” Koala admits, the tailor and her assistant nodding in agreement. “But the Duke is not so weak as to have to worry about what dress you choose.” She assures you.

“I’m aware,” there’s a soft smile on your face. “I do prefer the second one, even outside the weight and scope of politics, but don’t tell the Duke.”

“The Duke you’ve been avoiding lately?” Koala hums, as you and her take your leave of the maids, the tailor, and her assistant.

“There is, dear Koala, only one Duke in this entire estate.” You point out flatly. “And I’m not avoiding him, we’ve both been busy. Crown Prince Ace and Prince Luffy arrive tomorrow.”

“Aye, and the guest rooms by the Duke’s room are all set and ready to, the training grounds have been reinforced and the underground facilities are being re-warded as we speak.” She replies. “There’s nothing left to fuss over.”

“Warded? I thought the underground was already quite sturdy.”

“Prince Luffy’s advanced magic is unique.” Koala admits sheepishly. “Or maybe it’s better to say Prince Luffy is unique.” She clarifies with a warm smile.

“The more I hear of him the more I’m looking forward to meeting him.”

“Oh?”

“Yes,” you admit with a genuine smile. “Aside from fondness the Duke has for the two princes, Prince Luffy’s advanced magic intrigues me. The Crown Prince wields the same advanced magic as the Duke, which is interesting enough on its own, but everything I hear about the younger prince sets him apart even in a world where ones advanced magic is already unique.”

Koala smiles. “You should ask the Duke for a refresher during dinner tonight.”

“I was planning on it.” You admit, shooing her away before you went outside for a bit before dinner. You’d been in that, surrounded by maids and dresses, for too long. Some fresh air was just the thing to help you relax a little.

There wasn’t time enough to do any sparring, and while you could practice sword forms in a dress, you were already on the edges of sweaty and tired from the ordeal of earlier. You didn’t want to look unbecoming if you were going to be having dinner with the Duke.

As planned, during dinner that evening you asked the Duke to refresh you on his dear guests, and he seemed as relieved to have something to talk about, as you were delighted to listen to him. Tomorrow promised, if nothing, a buffer for the tension that was still taut between the two of you.

Sabo’s regard for the princes shone through as he spoke, and dinner was easy and comfortable. The walk back to your room had been a little lonely, as he’d been pulled away by Hack and you’d declined waiting in the tea room. It had been a long day, and tomorrow promised to be eventful, and without anything else that needed to be discussed with Sabo it would just be awkward again.

Though, not a bad kind of awkward, you had to admit. If you were the only one affected then it wouldn’t be as bad, and since the Duke obviously was, then it meant he felt similarly.

Not that it made it easier to face him with no one else around.

Standing beside him the next day, with nearly half the household in attendance, as the princes from the Dawn Kingdom arrived, was still a little rough. The proximity had more pressure than you anticipated.

“If we’re fortunate, Luffy won’t break the carriage in an attempt to immediately hug you.” Sabo says a little tensely as the carriage comes down the lane.

“I see I should have worn my training uniform after all.” You reply as evenly as you can. “You defend the border, oh mighty Duke,” you say teasingly. “Certainly you can defend me.”

“I don’t defend the border from Luffy.” Sabo answers and you have to put your hand up to help stifle a laugh.

The white carriage that came to a stop in front of the two of you was ornate and well-crafted. The white was soft, and not so reflective as to make it difficult to look upon in the bright sun of the day. The detailing was done in rose gold, indicative of the Dawn Kingdom’s very name, as well as its fiery reputation for how fiercely it protected the northern border of its territory. Most of the materials the carriage was made from were monster parts, bones and hide instead of wood and cow leather.

Regardless of the materials, it wasn’t barbaric in its presentation. Such a carriage would hold up well even within the empire and its exacting tastes.

Sabo relaxes when the carriage comes to a full stop and the occupants inside don’t immediately burst out of it. Instead, they wait until the coachman opens the door for them.

A young man who could easily be the same age as the Duke steps out first. Freckles dapple his sun-kissed skin, dark wavy hair framing his face. A simple golden crown sits atop his head, and his crisp white suit, accented in orange-reds and golds, is neat and well-tailored. It almost leaves you feeling a little under-dressed, but it had been a bit of a debate between you and the Duke on how you should dress to receive your guests.

In the end you’d agreed to err on the side of social caution, and dressed up as opposed to dressing casually. It had been the right choice, but the Crown Prince Ace had gone almost full regalia. Which was itself a statement to how close he and the Duke were. If the two were at odds it could’ve been taken as a slight, but he could have arrived in a flour sack and it wouldn’t have impacted their relationship.

Ace flashes Sabo a wide toothy grin before returning to a more somber expression and you hear him mutter something under his breath in response. Before the little back and forth could go any further the next passenger steps out.

The younger man’s clothing colors are almost inverted. More red than white, with rose gold accents and black pants. While just as refined and well-tailored as Ace’s attire, Luffy’s clothing sat on him awkwardly, but not in a physical way. The cuts and seams were perfect, and in terms of fitting his body the suit was as near to flawless as anything could get.

However, there probably wasn’t a tailor in all the empires who could contain the wild nature and boundless energy of the young man standing before you. Once his clear eyes met yours, you understood.

This is someone who would never look at home in regalia a day in his life, but you bet his border uniform was a completely different story. Assuming he even wore one. You couldn’t explain why, but when you pictured him fighting monsters, he did so in scraps of hide and the tattered remains of boots.

The image strikes you so soundly, you nearly have to pinch yourself to pull your focus back where it belongs.

“You do realize you’re a full week early, don’t you?” Sabo questions when the two princes smile.

Ace shrugs, the crown on his head going crooked. “The old man reached out and told your dad if he was inclined to send you on an expedition before your engagement party, then Lu’ and I could help.”

“He means the King of the Dawn kingdom,” Sabo clarifies for you before reaching out and straightening Ace’s crown, only to hug him afterward and knock it off center again. “I’m glad you’re here, but I haven’t been decreed to the border as yet, and now it would be too late.”

“We’re planning on staying a week after as well,” Ace explains, his eyes shifting away from Sabo toward you as the Duke moves to hug Luffy. “So if they send you away after, we can still help. Ah, you must be Lady A’tana Écaille de Lulusia.”

You curtsy ever so slightly, smiling as you nod. “And you must be his majesty, Crown Prince Ace D’Majom. It is an honor.”

Ace’s smile is both bright, cocky, and kind all at once, and it leaves him looking more like a border knight than a prince. He returns your small curtsy with a slight bow, one hand over his heart.

“Ace, please, I-.” Sabo clears his throat at Ace’s words and the young man’s face flushes a little before he steps back. “Prince Ace, at your service, Lady Lulusia, no need for all the rest of it.”

“As you wish,” you reply with a smirk before turning your attention to the other prince. Luffy has already shed any pretense of propriety and is smiling at you brightly.

“Sabo says not to just use names, so you can call me Prince Lu,” he declares as Sabo puts his hand over his face. You can’t hear the groan, but you can feel it rolling off of him.

“If it pleases you, young prince, certainly.” You reply evenly. “Would you prefer to call me Lady Lu in return?”

Luffy’s face brightens so clearly you have your answer before he can even say it. “Sabo says you can fight!”

The sudden shift in tone and conversation topic stutters you for a split second, and the Duke is already interjecting.

“She is skilled Luffy, but she’s still working on melding.” He explains, a grip on Luffy’s shoulder so firm you can see the younger man sweating a little. “Please do not risk her safety so close to the ball.”

“C-certainly.” Luffy stammers a bit, giving you a strained smile and bowing slightly like Ace had, once Sabo loosens his grip. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lady Lu.”

“The pleasure is all mine,” you assure him. “We’ve refreshments prepared if you’d like to eat and relax after your journey.”

“Allow me to escort you,” Hack offers, stepping forward and motioning toward the manor.

Luffy follows after him in a way that almost makes it look like he’s escorting Hack instead. Ace keeps pace with the two of them, giving one glance over his shoulder toward you and Sabo. You’re following behind, a bit of a distance between yourselves and them for the sake of conversation.

“My apologies.” Sabo offers softly when Ace turns his attention back to Luffy and Hack.

“I don’t believe any are needed, your grace.”

“I… feel like I didn’t have adequate time to properly prepare you for, well, Luffy.” He admits candidly.

“I’m left with the distinct impression that one must experience Prince Luffy first hand, and that no amount of preparation would suffice.” Smiling up at him you accept the arm he offers. “Are you truly worried about injury prior to the ball?”

Looking down at you inquisitively for a moment his expression turns sheepish. “You and Luffy both are skilled enough to avoid any major injury, but I was worried he was going to drag you to the training grounds right then and there.”

“I would have liked to.” You admit, and see Sabo smile.

“I’m not surprised by that.” He says, patting the top of your hand. “I won’t forbid it, but I do ask that you take care. Luffy’s not just skilled, he’s primal when it comes to combat. I would be more comfortable if you had myself or Ace nearby during such matches.”

“Certainly.” You hum the words again. It’s hard to contain your excitement at the prospect of fighting someone like Prince Luffy. “It would be prudent to make sure they both fight with… weapons, yes?”

Sabo laughs and the jovial sound causes Ace and Luffy to look back at the two of you, big grins on their faces. Ace hurries Hack and Luffy along, giving you both a little more space.

“Luffy uses gauntlets, but Ace’s sword style is that of the Dawn Kingdom, so you’d likely get more in return for sparring with him.” He explains after a moment. “Though you might actually find sparring with Luffy easier than most.”

“Oh?”

“He fights like a beast, and your sword forms are uniquely suited more than any other style I know of.” He admits. “Since most people fight beasts in groups, which makes sparring with Luffy frustrating for them.”

“I see.” You hum, a small smile playing on your lips. “Maybe… after the festivities. I would like to use my morning training time to continue trying to merge magic and sword. Doing both would be rude to our guests.”

“Hardly.” Sabo hums. “If you’re not against allowing them to help you, you could gain some helpful insights. There’s still plenty to do for the ball itself, but I don’t mind focusing on that if it frees up more time for your training. I imagine I’ll be sent to the border immediately after, and it would put me at ease if your merger had completed before I left.”

“Do you think your,” you pause and shake your head. “I mean are you worried that there’ll be another uninvited guest?”

“Possibly. Not the one we had before. He hasn’t even been in Goa since that night, so I doubt he means to try again.” Sabo admits. “Currently I’m more concerned about Sterry.”

“The Crown Prince?” You question, truly caught off guard by the concern.

Sabo nods. “I expect he’ll show at the celebration, and linger as a guest after I’m sent to the border.”

“As your fiance, and not the Duchess, I wouldn’t have much authority over him.” You agree. “I’m just not sure what he would be able to accomplish, or wish to.”

“That is my concern,” Sabo sighs, patting your hand on his arm. “I used to know what he was thinking. Sterry and I were close… but that seems like a lifetime ago.”

“We will simply need to be flexible then,” you try to reassure him. “We don’t know if Sterry will attend or not, and we have a week to consider our options. I may not know this kingdom’s intricacies the way you do, but you may lean on me for support in this matter, your Grace.”

“Lady Lulusia, I-.”

“Oi!” Luffy’s voice carries out from a balcony on the second floor, one arm over his head waving at you and Sabo. You didn’t realize how far ahead they had gotten until you saw him up there. “Sabo! We’re going to eat everything if you don’t-hurk!”

Someone, most likely Ace, grabs the collar of Luffy’s jacket, pulling him back into the tea room. Sabo heaves a long-suffering sigh and you can’t help but laugh.

“It seems we’ve kept our esteemed,” he almost growls the word, despite the smile he’s pulled onto his face, “guests waiting.”

“Indeed.” You press your lips together, trying not to laugh again. Luffy was certainly a delight. Even as you head into the estate you prompt him.

“You were saying, your Grace?”

“Ah, just that… I’m glad to have your support, Lady Lulusia.” He replies with a softer smile.

[dragons-clause]

Can you blame her?

[dragons-clause]

Sabo Week Day 6:

Reunion/Smile

[dragons-clause]

HBD SABO PLESEASE CRUSHDH MY SKULL ASAP THANK YOU I LOVE U KINGN🥺🥺😭🥰❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥❤️🔥❤️❤️🔥💦💦

[dragons-clause]

Happy Birthday King 🎩

sabo face for his birthday ❤️

[dragons-clause]

Sabo Week Day 4: Devil Fruit

Sorry i didnt mean to cook so hard but it had to be done. It’s what must transpire.

Bonuses (concept art and luffy ver.):

[dragons-clause]

Sabo Week Day 2: Favourite Outfit ❤️

[dragons-clause]

Se me cayó en lienzo

[dragons-clause]

[dragons-clause]

WARNING: Local White Boy IN YOUR AREA!!!