#Relative Volatility

[drinkingdeadpeopletea]

and while i'm hieronymousposting. i was totally assuming that he and saskia and sherman and tzila were all going to get thrown into a Situation together immediately post-reunion but since hieronymous made it to this dinner apparently that didn't happen. but i'm also relatively sure that if tzila had learned hieronymous was her father we would have seen that scene, which i guess means that he just. kept up the "friendly shipping captain harry" act and exited the room to go to this dinner. which makes me feel CRAZY,

[allaboutforexworld]

Trade Gaps in Forex Market

The forex market, known for its high volatility and liquidity, presents numerous opportunities for traders to capitalize on price movements. One such opportunity arises from trade gaps. Understanding and effectively trading these gaps can significantly enhance a trader’s profitability. This article delves into the concept of trade gaps, exploring their causes, types, and strategies for trading…

[hematocephalus]

-.-

[bet-on-me-13]

Danny is the Tibetan Monk

So! When Bruce was travelling the world, finding masters to teach him how to fight and investigate, he came across a strange building in Tibet.

He had followed rumors of an ancient Monk who lived atop a mountain just on the edge of a Village, who had learned how to conquer Death itself, and stole its secrets for himself. Hoping to find a new Teacher, Bruce climbed the mountain and found the home of that Monk.

What he found was strange though...

The building seemed much more modern than he had been expecting, built with metal and drywall rather than ancient bricks or stones as he had assumed. There was also a strange machine on the top of the building, and if he didn't know any better he would have said it almost looked like a spaceship.

Hesitantly, he knocked on the wooden door and waited.

The man who answered looked nothing like he had expected, but so far nothing had met his expectations so he wasn't really surprised at that point. He looked relatively young, in his late 20's or early 30's, and was wearing a simple T-shirt and jeans. He had short black hair, blue eyes, and pale skin that didn't exactly match the tone of the other people living in the area. In fact he looked as if he could have been an American, rather than Tibetan.

Bruce introduced himself, explained why he was there, and managed to convince the Monk that he deserved his training.

It was unorthodox, certainly very different from the training he had recieved in the League of Assasins, but the Monk said that he was well suited for this style of training.

Under the monk he learned a variety of techniques. The ability to shield his mind from Telepaths, how to Astral Project, how to completely hide his presence from others, even from those with enhanced senses, and so much more.

By the time he was finished training with the Monk, he was confident that he could finally achieve his goal of saving Gotham from itself. He bid the monk farewell, and returned to his home ready to begin the legend of the Batman.

Meanwhile Danny had just sent his most recent student off after a few months of training.

He had to do this every once in a while. There were hundreds of Liminal and Ecto-Contaminated people out there in the world who didn't know how to manage their abilities. They didn't know how to innately seperate from their physical bodies so they could more easily feed on natural Ectoplasm, or how to shield their minds from the volatile stray emotions of the people around them thay may influence their thoughts.

It was dangerous for people with that level of Ecto-Contamination to live without knowing how to keep themselves healthy. So every once in a while, Danny would find a way to contact them and to teach them all they needed to know to stay healthy.

The "Centuries Old Monk" routine was an old favorite of his for this purpose. He would intentionally spread rumors where he knew they would hear, add in some incentive like "conquering death" to make sure they would follow those rumors, and than meet them and take them under his wing.

A few of his other favorite routines were the "Circus Act who knows more than he should", "Mechanic with great advice", and sometimes even just "Life Coach" for the more conventional cases.

And if he heard Bruce's story and decided to teach him how to use a few extra useful Ghostly Abilities, like hiding your presence or merging with Shadows, then who could really judge him? The kid had taken up a huge burden, he needed all the help he could get.

Besides, its not the first time he's ever done that.

...

Years later, Bruce met Dick and found out that he also knows how to Astral Project and Guard his Mind. He couldn't merge with the shadows or hide his presence nearly as well, but he could apparently slow how fast he fell and bend in ways even bruce couldn't.

Apparently he was taught how to do so from an old member of Haley's circus, who told him that they were meditation techniques to get "in the zone" for his trapeze acts.

Then he met Jason, who could also Astral Project and Guard his mind, and he could also heal faster than normal people and read other people's emotions. He learned from a Mechanic who used to live on his street, who told him it was just some street skills that would let him avoid the people who would hurt him or give him trouble.

Then Tim came in, also with Astral Projection and a Telepath-Proof mind, and he could apparently last for weeks on end with no food or even water, and could hide his presence from even Batman. He was taught by a butler his parents had briefly hired while away from home, though Tim's parents didn't know what he was talking about when he brought it up to them later. He was told it was just a way of "keeping his spirits up" when he was alone.

Stephanie had also been taught by an old Mechanic on her street. Same as all the other she could leave her body behind and guard her mind, but she could also read emotions and convince people to do what she said. The mechanic never gave a reason for why he was teaching her, but did say that it would help her gauge the people in her life easier. He left barely a week before Steph realized her dad was the Cluemaster.

Damien was, suprisingly, trained by the same Master that Bruce had been taught by. Talia had sent him up the mounting saying that his Father had learned from the man on the mountain, and he would as well. He was taught the same as all the others, though instead of merging with Shadows like his Father he was taught how to converse with Animals.

Cass had been taught by a man while she was running from her Father. He never said why, only that it would help her live a better life. She had the "normal" abilities of Astral Projection and Guarding her Mind, but she could also Merge with Shadows and Perfectly Read other people's emotions beyond their body language.

Duke was taught by a man who had also taught other members of "We Are Robin" during the cataclysm. He said it would help them survive their attempts at heroism, though he gave Duke extra training for some reason. He had taught Duke even more than he had taught the other Bats, alongside the now typical Astral Projection and Guarding his Mind, Duke could also talk to the Dead, See into the Past, and even Phase through Walls. With enough effort he could even Fly.

A few of his abilities were attributed to his Metahuman Powers, but he claimed that they were never that powerful before that man came along.

He also said that the man "Glowed" in a strange way. He was the only one who could see it among the members of We Are Robin, even the others he had taught.

Bruce had long since decided he needed to pay his old Master a visit.

[aces-and-angels]

there is no denying the power the english language holds over the western world-- or rather the world itself. time has shown me how limiting it really is. how many words are lost in translation? how many people are shunned because their tongue has been deemed inferior?

i'd like to shine a spotlight on hossam's campaign (verified/vetted; no. 251 on el-shab-hussein/nabulsi's sheet) his ability to campaign for himself is hampered by the imperfection of google translate and the volatility and precariousness of the ongoing genocide he suffers through. hossam writes:

"i have not lost anything material. i have only lost my entire family, except for the wives of my young brothers and their children. therefore, i am responsible for taking care of them."

my heart aches for hossam. he is waylaid by a lack of internet, but begs you to please consider his campaign/donate to his family so that they can have safety and survival. they deserve that and more. again in hossam's words:

"i created this campaign, hoping for all of you to succeed and obtain the money for their travel and private life insurance for a short period of time, so that we can at least feel safe from traveling and sitting. in a relatively quiet place, away from the machine of death, then thank you to those who stood by me, and thank you to all the donors, and thank you to all who will donate after this post. thank you all, from my broken heart, thank you."

as of posting, hossam has raised $4,510 CAD / $20,000 CAD. do not be a bystander- share where you can, donate if you have the means to.

[greenglowinspooks]

Hey. Shakes you by the shoulders. DCxDP where Eobard Thawne is Danny’s cool distant “uncle” that he never sees but always sends in the coolest gifts for the holidays.

~

Danny had grown used to seeing people injured at a surprisingly young age.

He wasn’t injured on the regular, or witness to some sort of extraordinary amount of violence; his parents’ lab was just… very volatile, and they were unprofessionally lax on safety measures on the best of days.

As such, when he saw an unconscious, incredibly injured man wearing some sort of superhero suit in their backyard in the early hours of the morning (he had gotten up to get a glass of water when he heard a thump outside), he didn’t panic, as any young child should have in his situation.

No. Instead, Danny dragged the man inside (with considerable difficulty; despite how thin he was, he was heavy), treated his wounds as best he could (it’s difficult for a child younger than 10 to do stitches, you understand), put a blanket over the man, and went back to bed.

After losing a fight to the Flash and passing out in a random suburban lawn, the last thing Eobard was expecting to wake up to was a small child sitting on the floor in front of him, noisily eating a bowl of cereal.

(He had thought, maybe he would have been found by the Flash and brought to some Justice League holding cell. Or, found by a civilian, and brought to the police. Perhaps, in his feverish state, he had remembered the prison he ended up in from his time, with their brands and chemicals and torturous therapies.)

For some unknown reason, this child had found him, not recognized him as the monster he is (perhaps due to the boy’s age), and helped him—even if his healing factor would have fixed him eventually, having all his parts in the right order certainly sped up the process.

Usually he wouldn’t care for civilians. He’d killed enough that he’d lost count what felt like an eternity ago—and yet, somehow, he felt indebted to this boy. This boy, who had helped him so selflessly, who was so entirely clueless to the evil right in front of him.

This boy, who was all alone in an empty house, whose sister was away, whose parents had gone on a trip and left him behind.

(It didn’t matter the explanation the boy gave for it, Eobard’s mind whispered to itself regardless. Kin. Like calling to like.)

And so, he worked hard to free himself from this debt he had incurred.

He traveled through time, working his way into the family whilst posing as a distant relative. It was remarkably easy; the Fentons didn’t have an incredible memory of their relatives; all he had to do was forge a few papers and mention a few people and he was now “Uncle Eo”.

It was, however, taxing on the mind. These people were absurdly friendly, not to mention talkative. The effort had become a multi-year operation, popping in every now and then for large family gatherings and home visits.

It felt… nice, to be wanted for once. To be noticed in his absence for more than just his status.

To be liked.

He made sure to send the boy a gift on the right holidays, as well as on his birthdays. With his skillset, it wasn’t too difficult to follow him around and see what he liked and wanted. It also wasn’t difficult to spy in when he opened them, to ensure that he had done an acceptable job.

Of course, he couldn’t let this sort of thing cut into his time spent fighting the Flash, so he wasn’t too present. The last thing he wanted was to drag trouble into the boy’s life from his presence.

But then, it happened.

He found out that this boy, and the one known in his time as Phantom, were one and the same.

It was, as a historian, thrilling.

It was, as a villain, horrifying.

In all his travels, he had never intended to involve himself with that mysterious being which shadowed the Justice League. That ghost with the power, in some timelines, to bring about the end of all things.

Of course, he was also capable of doing that, but it isn’t exactly fun to meet someone who’s powers are a match for your own.

Especially if you couldn’t find it in yourself to end him, should he make himself your enemy.

Still, he had a debt to repay, and a boy to look after.

He delivered things to the boy’s room to help him; tactical gloves, a lightweight protective suit, weapons and equipment. All uncredited, since the boy seemed to value the idea of a secret identity.

He took it upon himself to shift the odds in his favor a few times, even; making faster-than-light adjustments to the boy and his combatants during fights to shift the odds in his favor.

Somewhere along the years, he had formed some sort of odd affection for the boy, if he was capable of doing so at all.

And so, when that ghost-boy sought his Uncle Eo out all the way in Central City, carved open and scarred, a distant look in his eyes, he took him in without a second thought.

He would protect this boy, who once had protected him.

[womanofwords]

Everybody's Favourite (Part 9)

Two days. Two days straight of you crying your eyes out and begging for your dad and your aunts and uncles. All efforts to get through to you were angrily refuted.

"Y/N, you can't keep pining over Penguin," Bruce said. "He had you kidnapped and was prepared to ask for a ransom."

"Oh, grow up! You didn't even notice I was gone! Hell, you avoided me when you did see me! So stop trying to take the moral high ground with me! Treat me the same way you all did when I was seven and leave me alone!"

"You don't have to be so defensive, baby bird!" Dick pleaded. "We're just trying to make up for lost time! We want to get to know you!"

"Don't call me baby bird! Only Penguin calls me bird things! You're copying him to make me like you, and I won't!" you snapped. "Leaving my room was a mistake, clearly. Goodbye." You rushed up the stairs, sobbing.

"I should have known that they wouldn't want my contact immediately," Bruce said. "I just didn't know how volatile they would be."

Alfred, now back from visiting his daughter, sighed. "Sir, I watched the . . . debacle unfold over in England. Please allow me to talk to Y/N," he pleaded. "We had a positive relationship."

"Of course. You'll get further than we did," Dick said.

Alfred knocked on your door and sighed. "Mx Y/N, your family is doing their best to express their remorse for their previous mistreatment. Please try to hear them out."

"They're going to forget, Alfred. They always do! They'll forget and I'll get left behind! Papa never forgot about me, and neither did my aunties and uncles. They were always so kind."

"Y/N, your aunties and uncles are criminals. Here, you are safe."

"No, I'm not! Damian's here and he's sicced Titus onto me for fun!" you pointed out. "How am I safe with him around?"

Tim appeared out of nowhere. "Well, if you really want to get away from the little hellion, then I'm your ticket out! You'll go on a walk with me to clear your head. It must be so claustrophobic in your bedroom. Put on some clothes and come outside with me. We could both do with the exercise."

You weighed up your options. Sure, you need a break from these obsessed nutcases, but it wasn't like Tim was going to be any different. This was most likely a ploy to get you to open up.

"Hey! Don't call me a hellion, Drake, especially in front of my only blood relative!" Damian was there in a heartbeat, katana in hand. The same katana that had cut you before. You slammed your door immediately.

"Nice going, prick! I almost had them!" Tim scolded.

"They're my blood relative. You have a family. Go and find it, if you even can."

"Go and find yours, brat." Tim and Damian began fist-fighting in front of your door, and you closed your door with a quickness.

(PAUSE)

The next day, Stephanie stole their idea and went for a walk with you. "You know, I know what it's like to be disappointed in my father," she said. "You do know who my father is, don't you, Y/N?"

"No." You shook your head. "You never told me."

"Ah." Stephanie chuckled, embarrassed. "Well, my father's name is Arthur Brown, better known as Cluemaster. He's one of the villains Batman faces."

"So, your dad's a bad guy, too?" you asked. "Was he nice to you like Penguin is to me?"

"No, honey," Stephanie said, heart breaking. "Villains aren't nice to anybody, including their daughters. Nobody's safe from them."

"That's not true! Penguin was nice to me! He helped me make a penguin-themed ice cream place! And then Scarecrow watched cartoons with me, and Bane did workout sessions with me, and-"

"Y/N, don't you get it? Penguin lied to you!" Stephanie grabbed you by the shoulders and shook you. "You're not going back there, mark my words!"

"But I want to!"

"Leave them alone!" a passerby yelled. "We all know what you're like, you know! All Waynes are heartless! Screw you!"

"You don't know anything about me or Y/N!" Stephanie shouted back.

"We know none of you gave a damn when they got kidnapped! How terrible do you have to be for a kidnapper to be kinder than you guys?"

People started to gather at the commotion as Stephanie verbally battled the mob. She put herself between you and them, holding your hand tightly in the hopes that it reassured you.

It didn't.

"Deadbeats!"

"Abusers!"

"You guys are literally worse than the Joker! Here, have a Joker shake!" A purple shake flew through the air towards Stephanie's face from the hand of an angry protester. Stephanie stepped back just in time.

You, however, got hit in the face by a blast of blueberries and blackberries, everything going silent. You could have heard a pin drop as you wiped the shake off your face. They were waiting for you to do something, anything.

"Did I do something wrong?" you ask the crowd, eyes watering. "Why does everyone in Gotham hate me?"

Everyone broke out into fights. Some attacked the pitcher of the drink, others stayed focused on Stephanie.

"How about I call the police to take us home, Y/N?" Stephanie suggested. "It's scary out here."

"OK," you agreed. "I don't like being outside any more."

(PAUSE)

"Are you kidding me, Steph? You let Y/N get hit in the face by a random citizen's drink?" Barbara shoved that day's edition of Gotham Times into Stephanie's face. The picture was of you drenched in drink while Stephanie was behind you (not a good look), while a headline screamed at them.

Wayne Kid Uses Neglected Sibling As Human Shield

"So much progress . . . gone," Dick sighed.

"How are they supposed to trust us when we can't protect them?" Damian growled. "You're ruining my chances of bonding time with my only biological sibling!"

"You do that all on your own," Dick muttered.

The Wayne family wasn't the only one with flaring tempers. Over at the Iceberg Lounge, Penguin crumpled up an identical copy of the Gotham Times in anger.

"It hasn't even been a full week, and they're already allowing my little bird to be in harm's way," he growled. "Nobody hurts my little dove."

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9 <- You are here

Part 10

Part 11

Part 12

Part 13

Part 14

Taglist: @tinybrie, @enchantingarcadecreation, @hopingtoclearmedschool, @sh4rk-k1d, @prorpy, @angelicbear, @sulleha, @sirenetheblogger, @omgfangirlland, @heather-hutchcroft, @wannaflyaway, @jaybunsblog, @sugarrush-blush, @redkarmakai

[statistics-yup]

I always think about how we saw Andrew at one of the lowest points in his life. Like after thanksgiving, getting sober, and Proust (a reminder of everything that had ever happened to him), Andrew was probably near the most raw, unforgiving, and volatile he could ever be. Add that to the harsh personal contrast of how relatively calm his life was right before; it's safe to say we saw Andrew at his worst.

So when people say things like Andrew bottoming (something Nora said he one day does in the ec) don't make sense, or just overall say things that imply Andrew is exactly like how we see him for the rest of his life, it kills me. Because we saw him at one of the worst points in his life, but more importantly we saw him get given the tools and the people to heal. So yes, he's always gonna be rude as fuck and generally off putting, but he's gonna grow and transform in ways we couldn't imagine. He'll always have trauma, and his outlook will always be influenced by it, but he was a teenager in those books, and he has an entire life to live and heal with Neil and Bee and yes, Aaron.

Aftg is about overcoming trauma, and it doesn't necessarily focus on the healing part of that, but I still think it's one of the most important post-canon things that this fandom doesn't really talk about.

[signode-blog]

Mastering Relative Volatility Trading: A Comprehensive Guide

Trading in financial markets can be daunting, especially with the plethora of strategies available. One of the sophisticated yet effective methods is trading based on relative volatility. This approach helps traders understand market movements better and make more informed decisions. In this detailed guide, we’ll delve into the concept of relative volatility, its significance, how to calculate…

[fuckitpossumorb]

Im not done,,,

You know KNOW they kept getting into increasingly dangerous shenanigans as they grew up, they were threats on each others life even before they started trying to off each other.

Pyke had a loose baby tooth and Rex convinced him the best way to take it out was by tying it to a string and then tying that string to a speeder, they tied to wrong tooth.

Rex has a scar on his forehead from one time they were chasing each other over something and he slipped on a run and smashed his head against the edge of a table.

Once Pyke caught Rex making out with some girl and told Kahn which ended up with Rex receiving the worst version available of “the talk”

This backfired when Khan decided to treat Pyke to his own horrible brand of the “Do you like men son?” talk that Rex heard in its entirety turning red from trying not to laugh in the next room.

Though the idea of Rex and Pyke being involved in a situationship with the destructive power of a small nuke is fun to me, the funnier version I've conjured in my brain is that Leo Khan decided to adopt two children of the same species, age and gender but no blood relation within a few months of each other to form the most volatile family unit known to man. He fostered such a strong rivalry within them that they cannot look at a picture of each other without their cain instinct getting triggered.

Even funnier if they actually view each other as siblings but simply do not see the point in ever bringing it up, they don't look similar enough to try and connect the dots, its some piece of weirdass obscure trivia for hardcore old school racing fans.

Pyke is too socially inept to even think of bringing it up to the team, and Rex is just as bad if not worse except he at least tries to cover it up with his suave persona and just assumes Pyke would tell them. Their whole rivalry isn't about who is the best racer it's about who gets to be Khan's favorite child.

[allaboutforexworld]

Fibonacci Trading: Forex Trading Strategy Explained

Fibonacci trading is a popular forex trading strategy that utilizes the Fibonacci sequence and its ratios to predict potential price movements and retracement levels. This method helps traders identify entry and exit points, making it an essential tool in forex trading. Understanding Fibonacci Sequence The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding…

[xylophonetangerine]

Me in Weimar Germany: "One Papiermark will always equal one Papiermark. The Mark is volatile relative to the cost of commodities, not to itself."

[gimmethatagustd]

gang shit; knj

Your daughter's classmate has a really hot dad. Apparently, you're his arch-nemesis.

Pairing: Single dad Namjoon x Single parent Reader

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Genre/Trope: Kid fic, strangers to lovers, attempt at humor

Content Warning: None except Namjoon's biceps

Word Count: 1,205

A/N: Inspired by this tweet, reposted in honor of @rpwprpwprpwprw and @rkiveslibrary. Edit - not me finding the original banner by googling my fics jhfjksds

‣ Main Masterlist

“I don’t make the rules to this gang shit. I just play my role.”

Your eyebrows shoot up, and you cock your head to the side in disbelief. “Excuse me?”

“You heard me.” Namjoon adjusts his black baseball cap. His bicep bulges out of his short sleeve when he lifts his arm. 

You’re too old to be thirsting for a man like this. In all honesty, you’ve been acting childish all day – literally. It’s the last day of school before summer break, and your daughter’s preschool teacher invited parents to an end-of-the-year celebration. Having the privilege of working a hybrid schedule means it’s relatively easy for you to swing by the school with primary-colored cupcakes in hand. They’re the disgusting ones kids love that’ll stain their fingers and mouths bright blue. Oh, to be a four-year-old. So easy to please. 

Unlike little Yuna’s father, who has a stick shoved up his ass, and for what?

“What are you even talking about?” you ask with your arms crossed against your chest. 

You’d said literally five words to the guy, intending to start a pleasant conversation while the kids ran around the playground and the other parents mingled at the picnic tables outside. 

“Hi, I’m Y/N, Brooklyn’s parent.”

Apparently, that was offensive.

Namjoon’s sharp eyes drag up and down your body, and you try not to let his heavy gaze affect you – and fail when you feel your stomach dip. 

“Brooklyn said Yuna dresses weird,” Namjoon finally says with a pout that shouldn’t look so cute on a grown-ass man. 

“Did she?” 

“Are you calling Yuna a liar?”

“No!” This man is so volatile. “I’m just surprised, that’s all. We’ve been practicing using kind words, but, well, you know how kids are…” 

Namjoon doesn’t look convinced. 

You feel antsy under his gaze, unsure what to say or do. Are you supposed to apologize? Maybe that’s the mature thing to do. You’re still new to this whole “I’m suddenly responsible for an entire human being even though I barely even know how to take care of myself” thing. It’s a little bit unbelievable, actually! 

“I’m sorry for Brooklyn’s judgmental behavior. What kind of weird-, what kind of clothes-” you stumble through what you already know is a shit apology, “Which one is Yuna?” 

“That’s her.” Namjoon nods in Yuna’s direction.

You look across the playground to the swing set, where a little girl is lying on the swing on her stomach and spinning around with her arms and legs hanging limp. She’s wearing her hair in asymmetrical pigtails, one higher on her head than the other. Her sneakers are mismatched, as are her colorful knee-high socks. Her pants are polka-dotted, her shirt striped, and she’s got a bright purple cape tied around her neck. 

“She’s adorable,” you say softly. 

“She’s weird as shit.” 

Your mouth hangs open when Namjoon shrugs. 

“What? She’s my kid; I’m allowed to say that.” 

“Fair enough,” you concede with a smile, “So, we got beef now?”

“Yup.” 

Namjoon crosses his arms against his chest to match your stance. You tell yourself it’s very inappropriate to be eyeing your new enemy’s boobs when you’re in the middle of a showdown. 

“I’m not gonna lie, I don’t think I’m down for going to war for Brooklyn. Usually, I just like to blame her bad behavior on her dad,” you say with a barking laugh. You cover your mouth with your hand when you snort. “Sorry, that was inappropriate.” 

“You’re good,” Namjoon finally cracks a smile, and, wow, it’s breathtaking. His eyes crinkle at the corners, his teeth are big and bright, and he has dimples… “Yuna’s mother doesn’t let her dress how she likes, so when I have her, I let her do what she wants. Self-expression is important, y’know?” 

You nod because he’s right. Kids should be kids. 

“Plus, I like being the fun parent.” 

“Right! Who wants the parent with all the stupid rules?” You perk up, taking a step closer because now you’re partners in crime rather than enemies. Maybe. You’ll work on it. He’s too cute not to get up to some parental crime with—gang members, not rivals. 

“Not cool parents like us,” Namjoon lightly elbows you. 

“Yeah, they can’t ride with our gang.” 

Namjoon makes a face the moment the words come out of your mouth. He bites both lips, rolling them in and hollowing his cheeks, eyebrows raised. 

“What? What!” you gasp, knowing when you’re being made fun of, even if it’s in silence. 

“Don’t ever say anything like that ever again.” 

With a huff, you give him a tiny punch to the arm and tell yourself that it isn’t because you want to feel how tight his muscles are. 

“You’re the one who–” 

“HEY! NO HITTING!” 

Groaning, you throw your head back as a tiny blur of pink collides with your body. Brooklyn tugs on the hem of your shirt, repeatedly chanting, “Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey,” until you crouch to meet her at her level. Taking her little hands in yours, you hold them to your lips to give her knuckles a quick peck. 

“You’re right, I shouldn’t have done that to Mr. Kim,” you admit, “I should apologize, shouldn’t I?”

Brooklyn nods, and the bulbous beaded hair ties at the end of her pigtail braids swing like a deadly game of tetherball. 

“I’m sorry, Mr. Kim,” you say as you look up at Namjoon. He taps his finger against his chin in mock thought, and you can’t help but think that you’ll actually punch him if he fucks up this teaching moment by pretending not to accept your apology. 

“I forgive you,” he says with another grin that makes you feel like a silly teenager. 

“Y’know, Brooklyn, Mr. Kim told me something about you and Yuna…” Brooklyn immediately ducks her chin to her chest. No one has ever looked guiltier. “It’s not very nice to talk about how people look, love. I think you should apologize to Yuna, don’t you agree?”

It takes very little convincing for Brooklyn to run off toward the swings. She flops on her stomach in the swing beside Yuna, and then, after a bit of talking, both girls spin around. 

“If Brooklyn throws up from doing that, it’s your fault,” you mutter to Namjoon. 

“Real aggressive coming from someone who just physically attacked me.” 

“Okay, Mr. Gang Shit,” you quip back, catching Namjoon’s widening grin out of the corner of your eye. 

“Listen,” Namjoon touches your elbow, his fingers lingering just long enough for you to give him your attention. Heat spreads along your forearm and makes your fingers tingle. “I don’t really accept either of your apologies. You might need to try a little harder to get me to forgive you.”

“Oh.” You feel your stomach twist. 

“Might want to start with getting dinner with me, and then we can see where it goes?” 

Oh.

“I mean, if you think it wouldn’t hurt my street cred being seen with the likes of you, then, yeah.” 

Namjoon grabs his baseball cap bill and pulls it down until his hat covers his face. “Don’t make me rescind this offer because I’ll do it.” 

“Yeah, yeah, we’ll see how it goes.”

[ekat-fandom-blog]

Musical Chairs

While out on a mission fighting a magician, everyone's powers get swapped. Seeing as this isn't the first time this has happened, most of the League has been able to do a very short training session with each other's powers. Danny, however, is relatively new and hasn't had many normal train sessions with the League, much less the specialized training sessions.

It comes as a bit of a shock how quickly Danny's able to get a grasp on how the "new" powers work and how volatile his actual powers can be.

[2b4st4r]

Decayed

Kid x reader, law x reader, luffy x reader.

Words: 13,311 ( actual story)

789 (luffys part)

657(kids part)

966(laws part)

Warnings: graphic violence, mention of decay/ aging,strong language, theme of isolation/being a burden.

P.s. THERE ARE MULTIPLE ENDINGS..

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

The air in the dimly lit corner of the Wano tavern hung thick with the mingled scents of cheap sake and grilled meat. Outside, the perpetual twilight of Onigashima cast long, distorted shadows, but within the rough-hewn walls, a different kind of unease simmered. You sat there, a figure both captivating and subtly unsettling, perched on a stool as if it were a fragile thing. Your presence was a quiet storm, a stillness that hinted at unimaginable power lurking beneath a deceptively calm surface.

Whispers followed you like the smoke from a poorly rolled cigarette. Some spoke of impossible feats, of mountains crumbling at a mere glance, of storms bowing before your will. The most daring rumors even dared to compare your strength to that of the seemingly invincible Kaido, the Beast King himself. They called you many names – the Shrouded Calamity, the Silent Doom – each syllable laced with a mixture of awe and terror.

You took a slow sip of your drink, the ceramic cup feeling strangely vibrant beneath your fingertips. The Fushi Fushi no Mi, the Decay-Decay Fruit, pulsed faintly within you, a constant reminder of the terrifying power you wielded. A single, careless touch could turn the sturdy wood of the counter to dust, the vibrant life of a nearby flower to brittle ash. It was a power that demanded constant vigilance, a silent burden you carried with an almost serene grace. Tonight, however, the usual guarded stillness in your eyes held a flicker of something else – a hint of curiosity, perhaps, or maybe even the faintest stirring of anticipation in this land ruled by beasts and shadowed by secrets. The night was young, and in Wano, anything could happen.

The tavern door crashed inward with a boisterous bang, splintering the relative quiet like a dropped sake bottle. A wave of raucous laughter and clanking metal washed over the room as the Heart Pirates, the Kid Pirates, and the Straw Hat Pirates spilled inside. It was a chaotic symphony of boisterous greetings and playful shoves, a stark contrast to the hushed atmosphere that had clung to the tavern moments before.

The ordinary patrons, those seeking a quiet drink and a brief respite from Wano's oppressive reality, exchanged nervous glances. Within minutes, a small exodus began, the scraping of chairs and hurried footsteps fading into the night. They were wise to leave. The air now crackled with a different kind of energy, the volatile mix of three notorious pirate crews under one roof.

Yet, amidst the departing crowd, you remained. Unflinching, you continued to sip your drink, your gaze steady. The boisterous pirates barely registered you, their attention consumed by their own reunion. A few other long-time residents of Onigashima’s underbelly, individuals hardened by years of living in the shadow of Kaido, also stayed put, unfazed by the sudden influx of chaos. They had seen worse.

The Straw Hats, led by their ever-energetic captain, Monkey D. Luffy, were a whirlwind of motion. Roronoa Zoro, his three swords prominent, leaned against a pillar, a perpetual scowl etched on his face. The navigator, Nami, her sharp eyes scanning the room, seemed to be calculating the potential for trouble – or profit.

Nearby, the Kid Pirates exuded a more menacing aura. Captain Eustass Kid, his metallic arm gleaming in the dim light, surveyed the tavern with a predatory gaze, his first mate Killer a silent, watchful presence beside him.

Across the room, the Heart Pirates, with the stoic Trafalgar Law at their helm, moved with a more controlled purpose. Law’s keen eyes, however, flickered across the remaining patrons, a brief pause lingering on your still form before he turned his attention back to his crew.

The tavern, once a place of quiet anonymity, had become a stage set for a potential collision of forces. And you, the rumored enigma, the one whispered to rival even a Yonko, sat calmly in the eye of the gathering storm, an unreadable expression on your face. The night had just begun.

The boisterous energy of the three pirate crews filled the tavern, a tangible wave of ambition and raw power. Luffy, true to form, was already attempting to sample everyone's drinks and food, his infectious laughter echoing through the room. Kid leaned against the bar, a sneer playing on his lips as he watched Luffy's antics, while Law stood slightly apart, his gaze sharp and observant as he conversed quietly with his first mate, Bepo.

It was Law who first seemed to truly register your presence. His eyes, usually so guarded and analytical, narrowed almost imperceptibly as they flickered back to your corner. He paused mid-sentence, a subtle shift in his posture betraying a heightened awareness. It wasn't your appearance, which was striking yet understated, that caught his attention. It was something deeper, a feeling that prickled at the back of his neck – a sense of immense, almost suffocating power that radiated from you in silent waves. He had faced Yonko, felt the crushing weight of their Haki, but this was different. This was a dormant volcano, a quiet storm that hinted at unimaginable destruction.

Kid, ever attuned to displays of strength, also seemed to pick up on the subtle shift in the atmosphere. His crimson eyes, usually fixed on the Straw Hats with a mixture of disdain and rivalry, flickered towards you. He scowled, a low growl rumbling in his chest. There was something about your stillness, the utter lack of tension in your posture despite the palpable energy you exuded, that grated on his nerves. It was the quiet confidence of someone who knew they held a trump card.

Even Luffy, in the midst of trying to convince Zoro to share his sake, paused, his head tilting slightly. His usual carefree grin faltered for a fleeting moment as his gaze, surprisingly sharp when focused, landed on you. There was a flicker of something akin to curiosity, perhaps even a primal recognition of a formidable presence, before his attention was once again diverted by the promise of more food.

Law, however, remained fixed on you. He took a slow step forward, his hand instinctively resting on the hilt of Kikoku. The air in your corner seemed to thicken, the boisterous laughter of the pirates fading into a dull hum.

"You," Law's voice cut through the noise, low and steady. "Who are you?"

All eyes in the tavern turned towards you. The Straw Hats and Kid Pirates, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, fell silent, their previous revelry momentarily forgotten. The few remaining locals held their breath, their faces etched with a mixture of fear and morbid curiosity.

You finally lowered your drink, the movement slow and deliberate. Your gaze, which had been distant and contemplative, now met Law's directly. There was no challenge in your eyes, no arrogance, only a profound stillness that seemed to absorb the intensity of his stare.

A faint smile touched your lips, a fleeting expression that held more mystery than amusement. "Just someone passing through," you replied, your voice soft, yet carrying a strange resonance that seemed to fill the sudden silence of the tavern. "Someone who enjoys a quiet drink."

But the air remained charged, the unspoken question hanging heavy between you and the captains of the new generation. They had sensed it, the immense power that lay coiled beneath your calm exterior. And in the unpredictable landscape of Wano, such power could either be a valuable ally or a devastating enemy. The game, it seemed, had just gained a new, and potentially very dangerous, player.

The tense silence hung in the air, thick enough to cut with a blade. Law's gaze remained fixed on you, his suspicion palpable. Before you could elaborate on your cryptic statement, a sudden tremor ran through the tavern. The wooden beams groaned, dust rained down from the ceiling, and the sake bottles rattled precariously on the shelves.

"What the hell was that?" Kid growled, his metallic arm flexing instinctively.

Before anyone could answer, the tavern door burst open once more, this time revealing a frantic townsman, his face pale with terror. "They're here! Kaido's men! They're rounding up anyone who looks even slightly suspicious!"

Panic erupted. The remaining locals scrambled for cover, their earlier stoicism shattered by the immediate threat. The pirates, however, remained alert, their eyes narrowed in anticipation of a fight.

In the ensuing chaos, a large, burly Beast Pirate, easily twice the size of a normal man, stumbled backwards, sent sprawling by a stray kick from one of Kid's crew. He flailed wildly, his massive hand reaching out for anything to steady himself. His desperate grip landed squarely on your arm, his thick fingers wrapping around your bare forearm.

The moment his skin made contact with yours, a visible ripple spread outwards from the point of contact. The Beast Pirate let out a strangled gasp, his eyes widening in disbelief and dawning horror. The vibrant color drained from his skin, replaced by a sickly grey. His once taut muscles seemed to deflate, his flesh wrinkling and sagging as if decades were collapsing onto him in mere seconds. His thick, calloused hand, still gripping your arm, began to resemble the brittle claw of an ancient corpse.

A collective gasp swept through the tavern. The pirates, momentarily stunned by the suddenness and the sheer unnaturalness of the transformation, stared in horrified fascination. The burly Beast Pirate, who had been a picture of brute strength just moments before, now looked like a frail old man on the verge of collapse. His grip loosened, his eyes rolled back in his head, and he crumbled to the floor, a pile of withered flesh and brittle bones.

You stood there, your arm where he had touched you seemingly unaffected, your expression unreadable. The silence that followed was absolute, broken only by the soft thud of the decayed body hitting the wooden floor. The air, already thick with tension, now crackled with a potent mix of fear and bewildered awe.

All eyes were on you, the mysterious stranger who had just turned a formidable Beast Pirate into dust with a single touch. The rumors, the whispers of unimaginable power, suddenly seemed terrifyingly real. The Fushi Fushi no Mi had revealed its horrifying truth, and the three pirate captains, along with their crews, now understood that the quiet figure in the corner was far more dangerous than they could have possibly imagined.

The silence stretched, taut and heavy. The sheer impossibility of what they had just witnessed hung in the air, a grotesque testament to your power. Even the seasoned pirates, who had seen their fair share of bizarre Devil Fruit abilities, were momentarily speechless.

Then, a slow clap echoed through the stunned silence. It was Luffy. His usual wide, goofy grin was stretched even wider, bordering on manic. His eyes, wide and sparkling with unrestrained wonder, were fixed on you.

"Sugoi!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with pure, unadulterated amazement. "You can make people old instantly! That's so cool!" He took a step forward, his rubbery limbs seeming to coil with excitement. "Hey! Can you do it again? Can you make that table all crumbly?"

Nami smacked the back of his head. "Luffy! Don't just go waltzing over there! We have no idea who this person is or what they're capable of!" Her voice was sharp with a nervous edge, her eyes darting between you and the withered corpse on the floor.

Zoro's hand instinctively tightened on the hilt of Wado Ichimonji, his one visible eye narrowed in cautious assessment. Usopp, ever the cautious one, had already retreated behind Franky, peeking out with wide, fearful eyes. Chopper trembled, muttering about the terrifying implications of such an ability. Robin, however, observed you with a thoughtful curiosity, her expression betraying a flicker of intrigue.

Across the room, the Kid Pirates were equally tense, though their reactions were more subdued. Killer's masked face remained impassive, but his posture was coiled and ready. Kid himself stared at you, his crimson eyes narrowed in a mixture of disbelief and grudging respect. A low whistle escaped his lips. "Damn," he muttered, a hint of awe in his voice despite himself. "That's…something else."

Law, ever the pragmatist, remained still, his gaze unwavering. There was a flicker of something akin to scientific curiosity in his eyes, overlaid with a healthy dose of caution. "That Devil Fruit…" he murmured, more to himself than anyone else. "To accelerate decay to that extent…it's unlike anything I've encountered." He pushed his glasses up his nose, his analytical mind already dissecting the implications of your power.

"You said you were just passing through," Law continued, his voice calm but with an underlying sharpness. "That seems like quite the understatement. Someone with such a…destructive ability doesn't simply 'pass through' Wano unnoticed. Who are you, really?"

The weight of their combined attention bore down on you. Three of the most formidable captains of the new era, their crews on high alert, all waiting for your answer. Luffy, however, seemed oblivious to the tension, his starry eyes still fixed on you with childlike wonder.

"Can you turn metal rusty too?" he asked, bouncing slightly on the balls of his feet. "That would be super useful against those samurai with their shiny swords!"

You met Law’s piercing gaze with an unreadable expression. The raw curiosity in Luffy’s voice, however, drew a faint, almost imperceptible smile to your lips. The contrast between the Straw Hat captain’s unbridled wonder and the more guarded reactions of the others was…intriguing.

"Indeed," you finally replied, your voice still soft but now carrying a hint of amusement. "The Fushi Fushi no Mi allows me to accelerate the decay of anything I touch. Organic, inorganic…the principle remains the same. The rate and intensity, however, are…variable." You glanced pointedly at the withered form of the Beast Pirate, a silent testament to the upper limits of your control.

Kid scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest. "Variable, huh? You turned that brute into dust in seconds. Doesn't sound very 'variable' to me."

"Control is paramount," you countered, your gaze flicking to him briefly before returning to Law. "Untamed power is merely destruction. Precision allows for…finesse."

Law’s eyes narrowed further. "Finesse? What possible 'finesse' could be derived from such a gruesome ability?"

Before you could answer, Luffy bounded forward a few more steps, ignoring Nami’s protests. "Can you make food go bad really fast? Imagine all the rotten meat we could throw at our enemies!"

You tilted your head slightly, a genuine smile now gracing your features. "That…is certainly one application."

"Luffy, stop it!" Nami snapped, grabbing the back of his collar. "You're being incredibly rude and reckless!"

Despite Nami’s scolding, Luffy’s innocent fascination seemed to defuse some of the immediate tension in the room. The sheer absurdity of his question, juxtaposed with the grim reality of your power, was almost comical.

You finally rose from your stool, your movements fluid and graceful despite the undercurrent of immense power you exuded. You were of average height, your clothing simple yet elegant, doing little to reveal the secrets you held. Your face, framed by strands of dark hair, held a timeless quality, your eyes deep pools that seemed to hold eons of untold stories.

"My name," you said, your voice carrying a quiet authority that commanded attention despite its softness, "is…unimportant for now. As I said, I am merely passing through Wano. My presence here is…temporary." You offered a slight bow, a gesture that was both polite and subtly dismissive. "Please, continue your…reunion. I will take my leave."

With that, you turned and walked towards the shattered doorway, your movements silent and swift. The three pirate captains and their crews watched you go, a whirlwind of thoughts and unanswered questions swirling in their minds. The mysterious stranger with the terrifying power had arrived as quietly as they were now departing, leaving behind a lingering sense of unease and a profound curiosity. In a land as volatile and unpredictable as Wano, they knew they hadn't seen the last of you.

The chaotic energy of the tavern slowly dissipated in your wake, leaving behind a heavy silence punctuated by the Straw Hats’ bewildered chatter. Luffy, despite Nami’s continued reprimands, was still buzzing with excitement about your abilities.

“Imagine if Y/N could touch Kaido!” he exclaimed, his eyes wide. “Would he get all wrinkly and weak?”

Zoro grunted, taking a swig of sake. “Don’t be stupid, Luffy. Someone that strong probably has ways to defend themselves.”

“But still!” Luffy persisted. “That decay power is amazing! We should ask them to join our crew!”

Nami nearly choked on her drink. “Are you insane?! We just saw them turn a person into dust with a single touch! They’re way too dangerous!”

Robin chuckled softly, a thoughtful expression on her face. “Intriguing, isn’t it? Such a potent ability, wielded with such…restraint.”

Unbeknownst to them, your path, seemingly set on a quiet departure from Onigashima’s chaos, was about to intersect with the Straw Hats once more, albeit in a far less volatile setting.

Days later, the Straw Hats found themselves navigating the treacherous landscape of Wano’s countryside. They were scouting for potential allies and gathering information, a task made difficult by the ever-present threat of Kaido’s forces. A sudden downpour had forced them to seek shelter within the dilapidated remains of a small, abandoned shrine nestled deep within a bamboo forest.

The air inside was damp and still, the only sound the rhythmic drumming of rain on the decaying roof. Luffy, predictably restless, was poking around the dusty altar, while Nami meticulously wrung out her soaked hair. Zoro leaned against a crumbling pillar, his senses alert, and the others were similarly occupied with trying to make the best of their unexpected refuge.

Then, a soft sound broke through the drumming of the rain – the gentle rustling of bamboo leaves. Zoro’s eye snapped open, his hand instantly moving towards his swords. Nami tensed, her gaze darting towards the entrance of the shrine.

Standing in the doorway, framed by the grey curtain of rain, was you. You were cloaked in a simple, dark garment that did little to conceal the air of quiet power that always seemed to surround you. A faint mist clung to your shoulders, and droplets of rain glistened in your dark hair.

A moment of stunned silence hung in the air. It was Luffy who broke it, his face lighting up with his signature grin.

“Ah! It’s the old-making person!” he exclaimed, pointing at you with a wide smile. “Hey! What are you doing here?”

Nami smacked him again. “Show some respect, Luffy!” she hissed, though her own surprise was evident.

You stepped further into the shrine, your gaze sweeping over the Straw Hats, a hint of recognition in your eyes. “It seems fate has a peculiar sense of humor,” you said softly, your voice echoing slightly in the confined space. “Or perhaps, the rain simply drives us all to seek the same shelter.”

The Straw Hats stared at you, a mixture of surprise and cautious curiosity etched on their faces. Luffy, ever the anomaly, seemed genuinely pleased by the unexpected reunion.

"You're all wet!" he declared, oblivious to the underlying tension. "Come sit down! This old place isn't the best, but it's dry-ish!" He gestured vaguely towards a relatively less dusty corner of the shrine.

You inclined your head slightly. "Thank you." You moved with the same fluid grace they had witnessed in the tavern, settling near the back wall, a comfortable distance away from the Straw Hats but not overtly isolating yourself.

Nami, ever the pragmatist, was the first to break the renewed silence. "What are you doing out here, all alone? This area isn't exactly safe, even without Kaido's men crawling around."

"My path takes me through this land," you replied, your gaze distant, as if you were looking beyond the crumbling walls of the shrine. "Solitude is…often preferable."

"But you're incredibly strong!" Luffy interjected, his eyes shining with admiration. "Why aren't you fighting Kaido or something? You could probably beat him!"

A flicker of something unreadable crossed your face. "Strength is not always best used in direct confrontation, Captain," you said, your gaze briefly meeting Luffy's. "Sometimes, the most potent force is the one that remains unseen."

Zoro grunted, his arms crossed. "Sounds like you're hiding something."

"Everyone carries their secrets, swordsman," you countered, your voice even. "It is what defines us, in part."

Robin smiled gently. "You mentioned your path. Does it have a destination?"

You hesitated for a moment, your gaze softening slightly as you looked at the archaeologist. "Eventually. But for now, I simply observe, I learn…and I try not to leave too much…decay in my wake." You glanced down at your hands, a subtle shadow passing over your expression.

The rain continued its relentless drumming, creating a temporary truce in the tense atmosphere. The Straw Hats, despite their initial caution, found themselves intrigued by your enigmatic presence. There was a quiet sadness about you, a sense of immense power carefully leashed, that piqued their curiosity.

Luffy, never one for prolonged seriousness, suddenly grinned. "Hey! Since we're all stuck here, do you know any cool stories? You seem like you've seen a lot of things!"

The unexpected request seemed to catch you off guard. A faint smile touched your lips once more, a genuine, almost wistful expression. "Stories…" you murmured, as if the word held a distant memory. "Perhaps…perhaps I do."

And as the rain continued to fall outside, the mysterious figure known only for their terrifying power began to weave tales of forgotten lands and long-lost histories, captivating the Straw Hat Pirates with glimpses into a world far beyond their own adventures in Wano. For a brief moment, the shared shelter transcended the uncertainty of their meeting, replaced by the timeless magic of storytelling.

Hours drifted by, filled with your captivating tales. You spoke of ancient civilizations swallowed by time, of forgotten seas teeming with mythical creatures, and of individuals who wielded powers that dwarfed even the mightiest Devil Fruits. Your voice, though soft, held a resonance that painted vivid pictures in their minds. The Straw Hats, even the usually stoic Zoro, were enthralled, their initial apprehension replaced by a sense of wonder.

As the last vestiges of the storm retreated, the rain softening to a gentle drizzle before ceasing altogether, a sliver of golden sunlight pierced through the gaps in the dilapidated roof. You rose, your movements as silent as your arrival.

"The rain has passed," you stated simply, your gaze drifting towards the now clearing sky. "My path calls me onward."

Luffy, who had been hanging on your every word, jumped to his feet. "Wait! You're leaving already?" He puffed out his chest, a hopeful glint in his eyes. "Hey! I have a question! You're really strong, right? And your power is super cool! So…will you join my crew?"

The question hung in the air, direct and guileless, a stark contrast to the cautious observations of the other Straw Hats. You turned to face him, your expression thoughtful.

"Join your crew, Captain?" you echoed softly. "Your journey is a vibrant one, filled with a camaraderie I have…not often encountered." A fleeting hint of melancholy touched your eyes before being quickly masked. "However, my path is a solitary one, for now. My…touch…is not always a blessing."

You walked towards a sturdy, albeit moss-covered, stone lantern that stood near the entrance of the shrine. You paused, your hand hovering over its weathered surface for a moment. Then, with a gentle touch, your fingers brushed against the cold stone.

A faint, greyish mist emanated from your hand, swirling around the lantern. The moss withered and crumbled to dust. The stone itself seemed to soften, the sharp edges blurring. In a matter of seconds, the once ordinary lantern had transformed. The decaying stone had reformed into an intricate sculpture, a delicate lattice of interconnected vines and blooming, albeit petrified, flowers. It was a breathtakingly beautiful object, born from the very power that brought decay.

The Straw Hats stared in stunned silence. The grotesque nature of your ability had been juxtaposed with an unexpected artistry.

You stepped back, your gaze lingering on the transformed lantern. "A parting gift," you said softly. "A reminder that even destruction can give birth to something…new."

Without waiting for a response, you turned and walked out of the dilapidated shrine, disappearing into the lush greenery of the bamboo forest as silently as you had arrived. Luffy watched you go, his expression a mixture of disappointment and awe.

"So…that's a no?" he asked, tilting his head.

Nami sighed. "He didn't exactly say no, Luffy. But it definitely wasn't a yes."

Robin smiled enigmatically. "Perhaps our paths will cross again. The world is a surprisingly small place."

As the Straw Hats emerged from the shrine, the intricately decayed stone lantern stood as a silent testament to the mysterious power and enigmatic nature of the individual they had briefly encountered. The question of whether you would ever join their crew remained unanswered, hanging in the air like the lingering scent of rain on the forest floor.

A day later, the humid air of Wano clung to you like a second skin as you navigated a less-traveled path through a dense forest. The encounter with the Straw Hats had been…unexpected. Their vibrant energy and unwavering camaraderie were a stark contrast to the solitude you usually sought. Luffy’s directness, in particular, had been a refreshing anomaly.

The rustling of leaves ahead broke your contemplative silence. It wasn't the random stirring of the wind or the skittering of small animals. This was a more deliberate movement, the kind that spoke of human presence. You halted, your senses sharpening, the subtle thrum of the Fushi Fushi no Mi a familiar undercurrent within you.

Rounding a bend in the path, the source of the disturbance came into view. It was a small group of figures, their distinctive yellow and black submarine, the Polar Tang, partially concealed amongst the trees near a hidden cove. The Heart Pirates.

Trafalgar Law stood near the water's edge, his coat swaying gently in the breeze, engaged in a quiet conversation with Bepo. Several other members of his crew were scattered nearby, some tending to minor repairs on the submarine, others keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.

Their presence here, in this seemingly remote location, was intriguing. Law was not one for aimless wandering. He always had a purpose, a calculated move in the intricate game he was playing in Wano.

Law’s sharp eyes, ever vigilant, spotted you almost immediately. His hand instinctively drifted towards the hilt of Kikoku, his usual guarded expression hardening slightly. Bepo, ever loyal and protective, stepped forward, a low growl rumbling in his throat. The other Heart Pirates also tensed, their movements becoming more alert.

"You," Law stated, his voice carrying across the small clearing, devoid of any friendly greeting. "We meet again. You seem to have a habit of appearing where you are least expected."

You stopped a few paces away, your own expression neutral. "And you, Captain Trafalgar," you replied, your voice calm. "Your penchant for clandestine meetings in secluded locations remains consistent."

The air crackled with a different kind of tension than your encounter with the Straw Hats. Law was not driven by innocent curiosity or boundless optimism. His gaze was analytical, probing, seeking to understand the threat or the potential advantage you might represent.

"What is your purpose in this forest?" Law asked, his voice sharp. "This is not a place for casual strolls."

"My purpose is my own," you countered, your tone polite but firm. "Just as yours is likely known only to your crew."

A tense silence descended, the only sound the gentle lapping of water against the hull of the Polar Tang. Law’s eyes narrowed, studying you intently, as if trying to decipher the enigma that lay beneath your calm exterior. The memory of the Beast Pirate’s rapid decay was undoubtedly fresh in his mind. This unexpected second encounter held the potential for either conflict or an uneasy alliance in the unpredictable landscape of Wano.

Law’s gaze remained fixed on you, a silent interrogation. The other Heart Pirates stood ready, their hands near their weapons. The air thrummed with unspoken suspicion.

"While your purpose may be your own," Law finally said, his voice carefully measured, "our paths seem to be intersecting with increasing frequency. In a land as dangerous as Wano, such coincidences rarely remain harmless."

Before you could respond, a frantic shout echoed from deeper within the forest. "Captain! We've got company! Beast Pirates!"

Several figures, clad in the roughspun attire and animalistic features characteristic of Kaido’s crew, burst through the trees, their weapons drawn and their faces contorted in aggressive snarls. They had clearly stumbled upon the Heart Pirates' hidden location.

"Damn it!" Law cursed under his breath, his hand now firmly gripping Kikoku. "They found us."

The Heart Pirates sprang into action, their movements swift and coordinated. Bepo roared, launching himself towards the oncoming attackers. Penguin and Shachi drew their cutlasses, their expressions grim.

You stood still for a moment, observing the unfolding chaos. The Beast Pirates, though numerous, were clearly outmatched by the seasoned Heart Pirates. However, their arrival had disrupted Law’s clandestine meeting and posed a potential threat to their operation.

As a particularly large Beast Pirate, wielding a spiked club, lumbered towards Law, the captain prepared to intercept him with a swift slash of his sword. But the pirate was surprisingly fast, his club arcing down with brutal force.

Instinctively, you moved. It wasn't a conscious decision to aid them, but a reaction to the immediate threat. You sidestepped the pirate’s wild swing and, with a fleeting touch, your fingers grazed the wooden handle of his club.

The effect was instantaneous and horrifying. The thick wood of the club seemed to age centuries in a blink. Cracks spiderwebbed across its surface, the once sturdy material turning brittle and grey. As the pirate brought the club down again, it disintegrated upon impact with the ground, crumbling into a pile of dust and splinters.

The Beast Pirate stared at the remnants of his weapon in bewildered shock, giving Law the opening he needed. With a swift shambles, Law teleported behind the stunned pirate and delivered a precise cut with Kikoku, incapacitating him instantly.

The other Beast Pirates faltered, their initial aggression replaced by confusion and a dawning sense of unease as they witnessed their comrade’s weapon turn to dust with a mere touch. Their eyes darted towards you, a new element of fear entering their brutish faces.

Law landed gracefully beside you, his sword still held loosely in his hand. He glanced at the pile of dust that was once a formidable weapon, then turned his sharp gaze to you.

"That ability…" he began, his voice a low murmur, a mixture of surprise and something akin to reluctant understanding in his tone.

The remaining Beast Pirates, seeing their advantage lost and a terrifying new element introduced to the fight, began to retreat back into the forest, their bravado replaced by a panicked scramble.

The Heart Pirates stood their ground, watching the fleeing enemies disappear amongst the trees. A tense silence descended once more, this time broken only by Bepo’s heavy breathing.

Law sheathed Kikoku, his gaze still fixed on you. "You…intervened." It wasn't a question, but a statement, tinged with a hint of disbelief.

You simply nodded, your expression neutral. "Their presence was disruptive."

Law’s eyes narrowed, but this time, the suspicion seemed to be tempered with a grudging acknowledgment. "Indeed. It seems our paths have intersected in a way that…benefited us." He paused, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Why?"

You met Law’s probing gaze, a flicker of something akin to weariness in your eyes. "Disruptions rarely serve anyone's long-term goals," you replied, your voice soft but firm. "Their presence threatened your…clandestine activities. And prolonged conflict draws unwanted attention in this land."

Law considered your words, his analytical mind dissecting your motives. He was clearly still wary, but the blatant display of your power, used to their benefit, had undeniably shifted the dynamic.

"You could have simply left," he pointed out, his gaze still sharp. "Why involve yourself?"

A faint sigh escaped your lips, a rare display of emotion. "Perhaps…I am tired of the endless cycle of conflict. Perhaps a moment of…equilibrium…is preferable." You glanced towards the direction the Beast Pirates had fled. "They will likely return with reinforcements. Your hidden location is compromised."

Law’s expression turned grim. He knew you were right. Their temporary sanctuary had been exposed.

"You seem surprisingly knowledgeable about our situation," he observed, his suspicion resurfacing.

"I observe," you reiterated, your gaze sweeping over the Heart Pirates. "It is in my nature. And in a land ruled by chaos, information is a valuable currency."

He remained silent for a moment, then a flicker of his characteristic pragmatism crossed his features. "Regardless of your reasons, you assisted us. That merits…acknowledgment." He inclined his head slightly, a gesture that seemed almost reluctant. "We are in your debt."

Bepo, ever loyal to his captain, looked at Law with surprise. It was rare for him to offer such a direct acknowledgment to a stranger.

"However," Law continued, his gaze returning to its usual intensity, "that does not erase the fact that you possess a terrifying power and remain an enigma. What do you intend to do now?"

You turned your gaze towards the Polar Tang, its sleek form a stark contrast to the surrounding wilderness. "My path continues onward. But perhaps…for a short while…our paths could align. Your hidden location is compromised. Traveling alone in this forest is…inefficient."

A thoughtful silence descended upon the Heart Pirates. They exchanged glances, clearly weighing the potential benefits and risks of traveling alongside someone with your unpredictable power. Law, however, seemed to be already calculating the possibilities. An alliance, even a temporary one, with someone capable of such devastating and subtle destruction could be a significant asset in navigating the treacherous landscape of Wano and achieving his own objectives.

"An…interesting proposition," Law finally said, a hint of a calculating glint in his eyes. "What would be your terms?"

You met Law's calculating gaze with an equally steady one. "My terms are simple," you stated, your voice clear and devoid of any demanding tone. "I require no allegiance, no commitment beyond the immediate present. I offer assistance when our paths align with a common obstacle. In return, I ask for information relevant to my own…endeavors…and safe passage through territories you may control or influence."

The Heart Pirates listened intently, their expressions ranging from wary suspicion to cautious curiosity. Bepo looked towards Law, awaiting his captain's decision.

Law stroked his chin thoughtfully, his gaze still fixed on you. "Information is a valuable commodity in Wano. And safe passage…depends on the territory." He paused, considering the implications. "However…your display of power was…persuasive. And your assessment of our current predicament is accurate."

He took a step closer, his gaze intense. "I will offer you a temporary alliance, under the terms you have outlined. You are free to travel alongside us, and we will share information that may be mutually beneficial. In return, we expect your…assistance…when necessary. And," he added, his eyes narrowing slightly, "we expect no…unforeseen applications of your Devil Fruit on our crew or our allies."

You inclined your head slightly. "An agreeable arrangement, Captain."

A tense silence followed, the unspoken question of your true intentions hanging in the air. Law, however, seemed to have made his decision, his pragmatic nature overriding his inherent caution.

"Furthermore," Law continued, his gaze surprisingly direct, "once this…alliance…has served its purpose…I would extend a more permanent offer. Your abilities are…unique. A force such as yours could be invaluable." He paused, his eyes searching yours. "Consider joining the Heart Pirates, Y/N."

The offer hung in the air, unexpected and carrying a weight that surprised even you. Law was not one to make such offers lightly. He valued the cohesion and loyalty of his crew above almost all else.

You met his gaze, your expression unreadable. The idea of belonging, of being part of a crew, was a foreign concept, a stark contrast to your solitary existence. Yet, there was a certain…intrigue…in his proposition. The Heart Pirates, despite their initial suspicion, possessed a unique dynamic, a blend of loyalty and competence that was…compelling.

"Your offer is…noted, Captain," you replied, your voice carefully neutral. "The future, however, remains unwritten. Let us navigate the present first."

Law nodded slowly, a hint of a rare, almost imperceptible smile touching his lips. "Fair enough. Bepo, Penguin, Shachi, prepare the Polar Tang for departure. We need to find a new anchorage." He turned back to you. "Welcome aboard…for now, Y/N."

And just like that, the solitary path you had walked had intersected with the unpredictable journey of the Heart Pirates. The temporary alliance had been forged, but the question of your true allegiance, and whether you would ever truly join their ranks, remained a mystery, a silent undercurrent in the unfolding events of Wano.

Following your lead, the Heart Pirates quickly mobilized, their movements efficient and practiced. Bepo took point, his Sulong form briefly flaring as he sniffed out the safest route through the dense foliage. Penguin and Shachi flanked you, their eyes darting nervously between the surrounding trees and your still form. Law brought up the rear, his gaze sharp and watchful.

Your knowledge of the terrain, gleaned from your days of quiet observation, proved invaluable. You navigated them through hidden pathways and avoided potential Beast Pirate patrols, leading them to a secluded cove further inland, one that offered better concealment for the Polar Tang.

Once the submarine was safely nestled amongst the jagged rocks and overgrown vegetation, a collective sigh of relief swept through the Heart Pirates. The immediate threat had been neutralized, thanks in no small part to your unexpected intervention.

Law turned to you, his expression still guarded but with a hint of something akin to respect. "You have proven…useful," he conceded, a rare compliment from the usually taciturn captain. "Your knowledge of this land is impressive."

You simply nodded. "Observation often yields valuable insights."

The Heart Pirates began to settle into their temporary sanctuary, some tending to the submarine, others setting up watch. You remained slightly apart, your gaze drawn towards the dense forest that stretched beyond the cove. The allure of solitude, of the quiet anonymity you usually embraced, was beginning to tug at you once more.

After a while, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the cove, you turned to Law. "Captain Trafalgar," you said, your voice quiet but carrying clearly in the stillness of the evening. "The immediate threat has passed. You are in a secure location, for now. My path calls me onward."

Law regarded you with a thoughtful expression. "You are leaving?" There was a hint of surprise in his voice, perhaps a lingering expectation that you might stay longer, given his earlier offer.

"My assistance was a response to a momentary disruption," you explained, your gaze steady. "My journey is not intertwined with yours. Solitude…suits me."

Bepo stepped forward, his brow furrowed. "But the Beast Pirates saw your power! They'll be hunting for you!"

"I have evaded those who seek me for far longer than you have navigated these seas, polar bear," you replied, a hint of amusement in your tone. "I am…adept at remaining unseen when necessary."

Law remained silent for a moment, his eyes studying you intently. He seemed to be weighing the potential benefits of pressing you to stay against the inherent unpredictability of your nature. Finally, he nodded slowly. "I understand. Your…independence is palpable."

He offered another slight inclination of his head, a gesture that seemed to convey a grudging respect for your decision. "If our paths cross again, perhaps under different circumstances…"

You returned the nod, a faint, almost imperceptible smile touching your lips. "Perhaps, Captain. The seas are vast, but fate has a curious way of weaving connections."

With that, you turned and walked towards the edge of the cove, disappearing into the deepening shadows of the forest. The Heart Pirates watched you go, the enigmatic figure fading into the wilderness as silently and mysteriously as you had appeared. They were left with the lingering memory of your terrifying power and the unsettling feeling that they had only scratched the surface of the secrets you held. The brief alliance, born out of necessity, had come to an end, leaving them to ponder the true nature of the impossibly strong stranger who had briefly walked among them.

A few days later, the oppressive humidity of Wano's inland territories clung to you as you traversed a rocky, sparsely vegetated region. The encounter with the Heart Pirates had been brief, a fleeting alliance born of circumstance. Now, the familiar cloak of solitude had settled back upon your shoulders.

The distant clang of metal against metal, carried on the dry wind, broke the silence. It was a harsh, discordant sound, indicative of conflict. You paused, your senses automatically on alert. While you generally avoided unnecessary entanglements, the intensity of the clashing suggested a significant confrontation.

Moving with silent grace, you approached the source of the noise, weaving through jagged rock formations. The scene that unfolded was a brutal melee. The Kid Pirates, easily identifiable by their distinctive punk-inspired attire and Eustass Kid's imposing metallic arm, were locked in a fierce battle against a contingent of Beast Pirates.

Kid, his face a mask of fury, wielded his magnetic powers with devastating effect, crushing weapons and sending armored foes flying. Killer, his scythes a whirlwind of deadly precision, danced through the fray, leaving a trail of incapacitated enemies in his wake. However, they were outnumbered, and the sheer brute force of the Beast Pirates was beginning to wear them down.

A particularly large, tusked Beast Pirate swung a massive spiked mace towards Killer, who narrowly dodged the blow. Before Killer could retaliate, another Beast Pirate lunged at him from the side. Kid, momentarily occupied with crushing a group of riflemen, couldn't intervene in time.

Instinctively, you moved. You reached the two closest rocks, each roughly the size of a human head, and with a subtle application of your Devil Fruit power, you accelerated their decay. In the blink of an eye, the sturdy stones crumbled into fine dust. With a silent flick of your wrist, you propelled the dust clouds towards the two Beast Pirates threatening Killer.

The fine grey powder billowed into their faces, momentarily blinding and choking them. They staggered back, coughing and sputtering, their attacks faltering. Killer, seizing the opportunity, swiftly incapacitated both of them.

Kid, noticing the sudden intervention, turned his head, his crimson eyes narrowing as they landed on you. He scowled, his expression a mixture of suspicion and grudging curiosity.

"Oi! What the hell do you think you're doing?" he bellowed over the din of the battle, his voice rough.

The remaining Beast Pirates also turned their attention towards you, their initial aggression momentarily replaced by confusion and a flicker of unease as they witnessed the bizarre cloud of dust that had incapacitated their comrades.

You stepped forward, your expression neutral, the dust motes swirling around you like a silent shroud. "Merely…leveling the playing field," you replied, your voice calm amidst the chaos. "Disruptions rarely end favorably for either side in the long run."

Kid’s scowl deepened, his metallic arm sparking with contained energy. "Leveling the playing field? You some kind of do-gooder now?" He spat the words out as if they left a foul taste in his mouth. "We had things under control."

Killer, ever the pragmatist, lowered his scythes, his masked gaze fixed on you. "They were gaining the upper hand, Captain. That dust…what was it?"

The remaining members of the Kid Pirates also eyed you warily, their hands still gripping their weapons. They had witnessed firsthand the devastating power of your touch, and now they had seen another strange application of your abilities.

"Simply accelerated decay," you explained, your voice even. "The rocks were…unstable. Their deterioration was…expedited."

Kid snorted. "Unstable rocks, huh? Convenient. You just happen to be strolling by when we're in a pinch?" His suspicion was palpable. He was not a captain who readily accepted help without questioning the motives behind it.

Before the tension could escalate further, the remaining Beast Pirates, witnessing the bizarre turn of events and the incapacitation of their comrades, roared in renewed fury and charged forward.

"Looks like your 'leveling' didn't quite finish the job," Kid sneered, his attention snapping back to the immediate threat. His metallic arm whirred, drawing in discarded weapons from the battlefield. "Alright, you weirdo! Stay out of our way unless you actually plan on helping properly!"

The Kid Pirates surged forward to meet the renewed attack, their movements brutal and efficient. Kid unleashed a barrage of scrap metal, tearing through the ranks of the Beast Pirates. Killer resumed his deadly dance, his scythes flashing.

You watched the battle unfold for a moment, assessing the situation. The Kid Pirates were undoubtedly strong, but they were still outnumbered and taking heavy blows. Your intervention with the dust had provided a temporary reprieve, but the sheer attrition of the Beast Pirates’ numbers was a significant threat.

With a quiet sigh, you stepped forward once more. This time, instead of subtle manipulation, you moved with a more direct approach. As a hulking Beast Pirate with a massive axe lunged towards a downed member of the Kid Pirates, you intercepted him. Your hand shot out, your fingers brushing against the metal of the axe head.

The effect was immediate and dramatic. The once gleaming metal dulled instantly, a layer of rust blooming across its surface like a grotesque flower. Cracks appeared, spiderwebbing across the axe head. The Beast Pirate roared in confusion as his weapon crumbled in his grip, turning into a pile of brittle, oxidized fragments.

He stared at the remnants of his axe in disbelief, leaving himself wide open. Killer, who had been moving to aid his fallen crewmate, seized the opportunity and swiftly took down the stunned Beast Pirate.

A collective gasp went through both pirate crews. The sheer speed and destructive power of your ability were horrifyingly evident. Kid himself paused in his assault, his crimson eyes widening slightly as he witnessed the instantaneous decay of the axe.

"What the hell…?" he muttered, a rare note of genuine surprise in his voice. Even he, with his formidable magnetic powers, had never witnessed anything quite like it.

The remaining Beast Pirates, their morale visibly shaken by the disintegration of their comrade’s weapon, began to falter. The tide of the battle was turning, not through brute force alone, but through the terrifying, silent power of decay.

The sight of the axe crumbling into rust seemed to drain the fight from the remaining Beast Pirates. Their crude roars of aggression turned into panicked cries as they stumbled backward, fear replacing their earlier ferocity. They had faced powerful fighters, even those with strange Devil Fruit abilities, but the instantaneous decay you wielded was something alien and terrifying.

Kid, seizing the moment, unleashed another powerful magnetic blast, sending a cluster of their fallen comrades’ weapons hurtling towards the retreating Beast Pirates. The impact scattered them, their disorganized retreat turning into a full-blown rout.

Soon, the only sounds were the heavy breathing of the Kid Pirates and the distant crashing of Beast Pirates fleeing through the undergrowth. An uneasy silence settled over the battlefield.

Kid lowered his outstretched arm, his crimson eyes fixed on you. He ran a hand through his spiky red hair, a look of grudging respect mixed with lingering suspicion on his face.

"Alright, weirdo," he said, his voice less hostile than before. "I gotta admit, that was…something. Turning metal to dust like that. What the hell is your deal?"

Killer approached, his masked face inscrutable. "Your abilities are…unusual. And incredibly dangerous."

The other members of the Kid Pirates also gathered around, their gazes a mixture of awe and apprehension. They had just witnessed firsthand the terrifying potential of this mysterious stranger who had seemingly appeared out of nowhere.

You met Kid’s gaze, your expression as unreadable as ever. "My 'deal,' as you put it, is simply survival. And occasionally…a desire to expedite the inevitable." You glanced at the retreating forms of the Beast Pirates. "Prolonged conflict serves no one."

Kid snorted, but there was a hint of reluctant agreement in his tone. "Yeah, well, thanks for the save, I guess. We had it mostly handled, but…that definitely sped things up." He paused, studying you intently. "You just wander around doing…that? Turning things old and crumbly?"

"In essence," you confirmed, your voice calm.

"You got a name?" Kid asked, his curiosity piqued despite his gruff demeanor.

You hesitated for a moment, a flicker of your usual guardedness returning. "Names…are often burdens. For now, you can simply call me…Y/N."

Kid grunted. "Y/N, huh? Sounds…fitting." He crossed his arms over his chest. "So, Y/N, you just gonna disappear again? Like some kind of ghost?"

"My path is my own, Captain Kid," you replied, your gaze drifting towards the horizon. "But our paths seem to have a peculiar tendency to intersect."

A wry smirk touched Kid’s lips. "Yeah, well, try not to make it a habit of showing up just when things get interesting. It's messing with my reputation for causing chaos." Despite his words, there was a hint of something else in his eyes – a grudging acknowledgment of your strength and a flicker of intrigue regarding the mysteries you held. The encounter with Y/N, the stranger who could turn the very fabric of existence to dust, had left an undeniable impression on the notorious Captain Eustass Kid and his crew.

Kid continued to regard you with a mixture of suspicion and fascination. "Look, Y/N," he began, his usual abrasive tone slightly softened, perhaps by the undeniable assistance you had provided. "You're strong. Freakishly strong, in a seriously messed-up way. And you showed up twice now when things were getting hairy. Maybe it's more than just coincidence."

He gestured with his metallic arm, encompassing the battlefield littered with the remnants of the Beast Pirates' weapons. "My crew…we're aiming for the top. Taking down every damn obstacle in our way. Having someone like you on our side…someone who can turn our enemies into dust with a touch…that'd be a hell of an advantage."

He paused, his crimson eyes locking onto yours. "So, what do you say, Y/N? Join the Kid Pirates. Help us paint this world red."

The members of his crew watched you with a similar mix of anticipation and apprehension. They had seen your power, and while it was terrifying, they also recognized its potential. Having such a force on their side could tip the scales in their favor in the brutal New World.

You considered his offer, your gaze sweeping over the faces of the Kid Pirates. They were a fierce and ambitious crew, driven by a relentless desire for power. Their path was one of open defiance and brutal conquest, a stark contrast to the more calculated and often secretive actions of the Heart Pirates.

"Join your crew, Captain Kid?" you echoed, your voice thoughtful. "Your ambition is…unmistakable. And your resolve…commendable." A fleeting hint of something akin to understanding flickered in your eyes. The desire to carve one's own path in this chaotic world was a sentiment you could, on some level, appreciate.

However, the thought of fully aligning yourself with such a volatile and openly confrontational force gave you pause. Your nature was to remain in the shadows, to observe and interfere only when necessary. The Kid Pirates’ approach was anything but subtle.

"Your path," you continued, your gaze returning to Kid, "is one of open conflict. Mine…is more…circumspect." You offered no direct answer, neither a yes nor a no.

Without waiting for further prompting, you turned and began to walk away from the battlefield, your movements silent and purposeful. The Kid Pirates watched you go, their expressions a mixture of frustration and intrigue.

"Hey! Don't just walk away!" Kid bellowed after you, his metallic arm flexing angrily. "Are you in or out, weirdo?"

You paused for a moment, your back still to them. "The future," you said softly, your voice carried on the wind, "is rarely written in stone, Captain Kid. Perhaps our paths will cross again. Until then…"

And with that, you continued your departure, disappearing into the rugged landscape, leaving the Kid Pirates to ponder the enigmatic figure who had twice intervened in their affairs, offering immense power without the commitment of allegiance. The question of whether Y/N would ever join their ranks remained unanswered, a lingering mystery in their relentless pursuit of dominance.

——

A rare and volatile truce had descended upon a small, war-torn section of Onigashima. The Straw Hats, the Heart Pirates, and the Kid Pirates found themselves in a temporary, uneasy alliance against a common enemy – Kaido and his forces. The air was thick with the tension of three fiercely independent crews forced to cooperate, punctuated by the occasional snarky remark or outright argument between their headstrong captains.

Luffy, predictably, was the loudest, his booming laughter and demands for more food echoing through the ravaged landscape. Kid, arms crossed and a perpetual scowl etched on his face, traded insults with him, their personalities clashing like colliding metals. Law, ever the pragmatist, stood slightly apart, his gaze sharp as he surveyed their surroundings, trying to maintain a semblance of order in the chaotic assembly.

"Oi! Straw Hat! I told you not to eat all the damn rations!" Kid’s voice boomed, pointing a metallic finger accusingly at Luffy, who was happily stuffing his face with a large chunk of meat.

"Shishishi! But it's so good!" Luffy retorted, crumbs flying from his mouth.

"You two sound like children," Law sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "We have more pressing matters to attend to."

It was Zoro, his senses honed from years of navigating treacherous waters and hostile environments, who first noticed the distant figure. His one good eye narrowed as he spotted a solitary form moving with a quiet grace along the edge of a crumbling cliff face, some distance away from their makeshift camp.

"Hey," Zoro grunted, his hand instinctively resting on the hilt of Wado Ichimonji. "Look over there."

All eyes turned in the direction he indicated. Even Luffy and Kid momentarily ceased their bickering, their attention drawn by the unusual sight. There, silhouetted against the bruised twilight sky, was you. Your form was unmistakable, even at that distance, radiating a subtle aura of quiet power that seemed to ripple through the very air.

A hush fell over the assembled pirates. The Straw Hats exchanged curious glances, a flicker of recognition in their eyes. The Heart Pirates, especially Law, tensed, their memories of your sudden appearances and unsettling abilities still vivid. The Kid Pirates, particularly Kid himself, stared with a mixture of grudging respect and lingering intrigue.

"Well, well," Kid drawled, a sardonic smirk spreading across his face. "Looks like our favorite walking dust cloud decided to grace us with their presence again."

Luffy’s eyes widened, his usual grin returning. "Oh! It's the old-making person!" he exclaimed, waving enthusiastically despite the distance. "Hey! Y/N!"

Law’s gaze was more analytical, his hand unconsciously tightening on Kikoku. "What are they doing here?" he murmured, his voice low. "Another 'coincidence'?"

The three pirate crews, united by a common enemy but still wary of each other, now found their attention drawn to the mysterious figure in the distance. Your unexpected reappearance sparked a fresh wave of questions and uncertainties in the already volatile landscape of their temporary alliance. The enigma of Y/N, the impossibly strong stranger with the power of decay, continued to weave its way into their chaotic destinies.

A ripple of murmurs spread through the assembled pirates as they all recognized the distant figure. The Straw Hats chattered amongst themselves, recalling your brief presence in the dilapidated shrine. The Heart Pirates exchanged knowing glances, remembering your unexpected assistance in the forest. The Kid Pirates, led by their captain’s sardonic commentary, regarded you with a mixture of grudging respect and lingering curiosity.

It was Luffy’s innocent exclamation that inadvertently brought a surprising revelation to the forefront. “Hey! Y/N! You never said if you were gonna join my crew!” he called out, his voice echoing across the distance.

Kid scoffed. “Join your crew, Straw Hat? Don’t flatter yourself. They almost joined mine.” He turned to Law, a smug look on his face. “Right, Trafalgar? They helped us out too. Seemed like they were considering my offer.”

Law’s usual stoic composure flickered with a hint of surprise. “They…offered assistance to us as well,” he admitted, his gaze still fixed on your distant form. “And when I offered them sanctuary, they neither accepted nor refused.”

A stunned silence descended upon the three crews as the realization dawned on them. Each of the three formidable captains had, in their own way, extended an invitation to this mysterious individual, and in each instance, they had received a non-committal response.

Luffy’s jaw dropped. “Eh? You guys asked Y/N to join too?”

Kid’s smirk widened. “Looks like our silent friend here is playing the field.”

Law’s expression remained more guarded, his analytical mind already dissecting this new piece of information. The fact that you had piqued the interest of all three captains, each with their own distinct ambitions and formidable reputations, spoke volumes about the enigmatic power you possessed.

“They never actually said they’d join anyone,” Nami pointed out, her brow furrowed in thought. “They just…helped us out and then left.”

“Yeah, but they didn’t say no either!” Luffy insisted, ever the optimist.

“Hmph. Probably just playing hard to get,” Kid scoffed, though there was a hint of genuine curiosity in his voice.

Law, however, seemed to grasp a deeper implication. “Their actions suggest a…disinclination towards permanent alliances,” he mused, his gaze thoughtful. “They intervene, offer assistance, but maintain their independence.”

The three crews continued to watch you in the distance, the realization that they were all vying, unknowingly, for the attention of this impossibly strong and elusive figure adding another layer of complexity to their already strained alliance. The mystery of Y/N, the silent force capable of wielding decay itself, had deepened, leaving the three ambitious captains to wonder about their true motives and ultimate allegiance.

The revelation that each captain had, in their own way, attempted to recruit you ignited a fresh wave of their characteristic bickering.

"Of course they'd want to join my crew!" Luffy declared, puffing out his chest. "We have the most fun!"

"Fun doesn't win you the Pirate King title, Straw Hat!" Kid retorted, his metallic arm gesturing emphatically. "They saw real ambition with my crew!"

"Ambition without strategy is mere recklessness," Law interjected coolly, pushing up his glasses. "I offered a pragmatic alliance, a means to navigate this treacherous land effectively."

Their voices rose, each captain vehemently arguing why their crew was the most logical choice for someone of your apparent caliber. Their respective crews could only watch, a mixture of amusement and exasperation on their faces.

"Honestly, they're acting like children fighting over a toy," Nami sighed, shaking her head.

"A very powerful and potentially dangerous toy," Zoro added, his gaze still occasionally flicking towards your distant figure.

Amidst the escalating argument, a soft, almost musical sound drifted across the ravaged landscape – a faint giggle. It was a sound that none of them had heard from you before, a delicate ripple in the tense atmosphere.

The arguing captains abruptly fell silent, their attention snapping back towards your distant form. You had paused on the cliff edge, your head tilted slightly, as if you had been listening to their boisterous debate. A faint smile played on your lips, the first genuine expression of amusement they had witnessed.

Your voice, when it finally carried across the distance, was soft yet clear, cutting through the lingering tension like a gentle breeze. "My, my," you said, a hint of playful mockery in your tone. "Such…enthusiasm. But forgive me, Captains. Who said I even wanted to join any of you?"

A stunned silence descended upon the three pirate crews. The realization dawned on them that they had all been so caught up in their own self-importance and the perceived value of your power that they hadn't even considered your own desires. The impossibly strong Y/N, the enigmatic figure they had all sought to recruit, might have no interest in becoming a subordinate to anyone. The power you wielded was your own, and your path, it seemed, was yours alone to choose. The three ambitious captains were left to ponder this humbling revelation, the air thick with a newfound sense of uncertainty.

The silence that followed your question was thick with a mixture of disbelief and wounded pride. The three formidable captains, used to having others clamor for a place in their ranks, seemed momentarily dumbfounded by the notion that you might not automatically desire to join their crew.

Luffy was the first to break the silence, his usual cheerful demeanor replaced by a look of genuine bewilderment. "Eh? You don't wanna join? But we're gonna be the Pirate King's crew! That's the coolest!"

Kid scoffed, his arms crossed. "Please. Joining the Straw Hats is a one-way ticket to getting into trouble for all the wrong reasons. Anyone with half a brain would see that joining the future ruler of the seas – my crew – is the obvious choice." He shot a disdainful look at Luffy.

Law sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose again. "Neither of your approaches is particularly…persuasive. I offered a strategic alliance, a means to navigate the complexities of the New World with a higher chance of survival."

You watched their reactions with a detached amusement, a slight quirk in your lips hinting at the entertainment you were deriving from their squabbling. After a moment, you tilted your head, your gaze sweeping over the three of them.

"Interesting," you mused aloud, your voice carrying a playful lilt. "So, each of you believes your path to be the most…advantageous." You paused, your eyes twinkling slightly. "Tell me then…amongst the three of you…who is the strongest?"

The effect was instantaneous. The fragile truce shattered like glass.

"Me, of course!" Luffy declared, slamming a fist into his chest. "I'm gonna be the Pirate King! The strongest there is!"

"Don't make me laugh, Straw Hat!" Kid roared, his metallic arm crackling with energy. "My power will crush anyone who stands in my way! I'm the strongest of the Worst Generation!"

"Strength without precision is meaningless," Law countered coolly, his hand resting on Kikoku. "My Devil Fruit allows for abilities none of you can comprehend. True strength lies in control and strategy."

The argument erupted anew, each captain vying to prove their superiority. Luffy launched into a series of exaggerated tales of his past victories, Kid boasted about his magnetic prowess and unwavering ambition, while Law calmly explained the versatility and devastating potential of his Ope Ope no Mi.

Their crews could only watch the spectacle unfold, a familiar blend of pride and embarrassment on their faces.

"They never learn, do they?" Nami sighed, rubbing her temples.

"It's kind of…endearing in a weird way," Usopp chuckled nervously.

"Just try not to get caught in the crossfire," Zoro grunted, keeping a wary eye on the arguing captains.

You stood on the cliff edge, a genuine smile now gracing your features as you observed the chaotic display. The sheer ego and unwavering self-belief of these three powerful individuals were…fascinating. The question of who was truly the strongest remained unanswered, lost in the whirlwind of their competitive spirits. And as their bickering continued, one thing became clear: convincing you to join their ranks was proving to be a far more challenging endeavor than any of them had anticipated.

As the cacophony of the captains' ego-fueled debate reached a fever pitch, you moved with the practiced silence of a shadow. Amidst Luffy's boisterous claims, Kid's metallic clanging gestures, and Law's coolly delivered strategic pronouncements, your departure went completely unnoticed. The three ambitious pirates were far too engrossed in their self-proclaimed superiority to pay any heed to the enigmatic figure who had sparked their childish squabble.

You melted into the surrounding shadows, your movements fluid and effortless. The ravaged landscape of Onigashima, with its crumbling structures and uneven terrain, provided ample cover. You navigated the darkness with an innate sense of direction, the sounds of the arguing pirates fading behind you.

Hours later, under the inky expanse of the Wano night sky, you found a secluded spot. Perched atop a relatively undamaged rooftop overlooking a desolate section of the island, you sat alone, the cool night air whispering around you. The moon, a sliver of silver in the vast darkness, cast long, eerie shadows.

The sounds of the ongoing conflict, the distant clashes and explosions, were a muted symphony in the background. Here, away from the boisterous pirates and the immediate threat of Kaido's forces, a sense of quiet contemplation settled over you. The vastness of the night sky, dotted with distant stars, offered a perspective that dwarfed the petty squabbles and grand ambitions of the world below.

It wasn't long before your solitude was broken once more. The sounds of approaching footsteps, though light, were distinct in the stillness of the night. You didn't need to turn your head to know who it was. Their presence carried a unique energy, a blend of recklessness and unwavering determination.

Luffy emerged from the shadows, his silhouette framed against the faint moonlight. He approached you slowly, his usual boundless energy subdued by the quiet of the night. He sat down a respectful distance away, his gaze fixed on the starlit sky.

"Hey," he said softly, his voice lacking its usual boisterousness. "What are you doing all the way out here?"

You turned your head slightly, your gaze meeting Luffy's in the dim moonlight. There was a quiet curiosity in his eyes, a stark contrast to the boisterous energy he usually exuded. The night seemed to have a way of stripping away the usual bravado, revealing a more thoughtful side.

"Simply observing," you replied, your voice soft, barely disturbing the stillness of the night. "The stars offer a perspective that the chaos below often obscures."

Luffy was silent for a moment, his gaze returning to the sky. "They're pretty," he murmured. "We don't always get to see them so clearly."

Another comfortable silence settled between you, broken only by the distant sounds of battle. Then, Luffy spoke again, his tone more hesitant this time.

"You never really answered us," he said, his eyes flicking towards you and then back to the stars. "About joining our crew. Or Kid's. Or Law's."

You regarded him with a gentle gaze. "Each of you has a strong will, a clear ambition. Your paths are vibrant and full of…potential."

"But…you don't wanna join any of them?" Luffy asked, a hint of disappointment in his voice.

"My path is…different," you explained, choosing your words carefully. "My touch…it carries a weight. A constant reminder of the impermanence of things. It is not always easy to walk alongside others when your very presence can accelerate their journey towards…the inevitable."

Luffy was silent for a long moment, seemingly contemplating your words. Then, he turned to you, a look of understanding dawning in his eyes.

"So…it's not that you don't like us?" he asked, a hopeful note in his voice. "It's just…your power makes things…complicated?"

You offered a small, sad smile. "Something like that, Captain."

Luffy nodded slowly. "I get it," he said, though it was unlikely he fully grasped the weight of your burden. Yet, there was a genuine empathy in his tone. "Being strong can be lonely, huh?"

You met his gaze, a flicker of surprise in your eyes. For someone so seemingly carefree, Luffy possessed a surprising capacity for understanding.

"Sometimes," you admitted softly.

Luffy was silent again for a while, then a wide grin suddenly spread across his face, chasing away the contemplative mood. "But you're not alone now!" he declared, punching the air lightly. "We're all here! Even if you don't wanna join our crew, you're still…around, right?"

You regarded his infectious optimism, the way he could find light even in the darkest of circumstances. A genuine warmth spread through you, a feeling you hadn't experienced in a long time.

"For now, Captain," you replied, a hint of a smile returning to your own lips. "For now, I am."

The two of you sat in comfortable silence for a while longer, watching the stars and listening to the distant sounds of the ongoing battle. The unspoken understanding between the seemingly carefree captain and the impossibly strong, solitary figure created a fragile bond under the vast expanse of the Wano night sky.

The quiet camaraderie under the starlit sky was soon broken by a familiar gruff voice. "Oi! Straw Hat! What do you think you're doing, sneaking off with our mysterious friend?"

Kid's imposing silhouette emerged from the shadows, his metallic arm gleaming in the moonlight. He approached you both, his crimson eyes narrowed with suspicion as he looked from Luffy to you.

"Don't think I didn't notice you disappearing during our…spirited debate," Kid continued, his gaze fixed on Luffy. "You're not trying to force them to join your ragtag bunch, are you?"

Luffy tilted his head, his innocent demeanor returning. "Force them? Nah! Y/N can do whatever they want!" He grinned at you. "Right?"

You nodded slowly. "Indeed, Captain. My choices are my own."

Kid's gaze remained sharp, his suspicion not entirely dispelled. "Still, you two look awfully chummy for someone who supposedly wants to be left alone." He shot a pointed look at you.

"We were just looking at the stars," Luffy explained simply, pointing upwards. "They're really pretty tonight."

Kid snorted. "Stars? You dragged our potential powerhouse recruit all the way out here to look at space rocks?"

"They have a name, you know," you interjected calmly, your gaze meeting Kid's. "And the vastness they represent is far more compelling than any fleeting ambition on this small island."

Kid's eyes narrowed further, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face. "Oh, so you're taking their side now?"

"I am taking no one's side, Captain Kid," you replied evenly. "I merely offer a different perspective."

The tension between Luffy and Kid began to rise again, their competitive natures resurfacing.

"Y/N likes looking at the stars with me!" Luffy declared, puffing out his chest.

"They were probably just being polite," Kid scoffed. "Anyone with real vision can see that joining my crew is the smarter move."

Before another full-blown argument could erupt, a cool voice cut through the air. "What is going on here?"

Law emerged from the shadows, his figure cloaked in the darkness, Kikoku's hilt visible at his side. His sharp gaze swept over the three of you, a hint of irritation in his voice.

"Some of us are trying to formulate a strategy to survive the night," Law continued, his eyes settling on Luffy and Kid. "Your incessant bickering is hardly conducive to that goal." He then turned his attention to you, his expression unreadable. "And you. I assumed you would have departed by now."

The three captains, each with their own agenda and vying for your attention in their own way, now found themselves in an awkward standoff under the watchful gaze of the night sky. The fragile alliance was once again strained, the enigmatic Y/N inadvertently becoming a point of contention between the ambitious leaders.

The tense standoff was abruptly broken by a sharp intake of breath and a muffled grunt. The section of the rooftop where you had been sitting crumbled silently beneath you, the aged and weakened material finally succumbing to the subtle, passive influence of your Devil Fruit. You plummeted downwards, landing with a less-than-graceful thud on a lower, more stable section of the dilapidated building.

A small cloud of dust billowed around you as you pushed yourself up, a grimace etched on your face. "Damn it," you muttered, brushing off the decaying remnants of the rooftop. "I hate this ability." The words were spoken more to yourself than to the bewildered pirates above.

The three captains stared down at you, their earlier animosity momentarily forgotten in the face of this unexpected display of your uncontrolled power.

Luffy's eyes widened in surprise. "Whoa! What happened?"

Kid's brow furrowed. "The hell was that? Did you just…make the roof fall apart?"

Law's gaze was sharp and analytical, his earlier irritation replaced by a renewed sense of caution. He observed the crumbling section of the rooftop, his mind already piecing together the implications of your ability's passive effect.

"It seems your power is more…pervasive than we initially understood," Law stated, his voice low and thoughtful. "It affects even inanimate objects through prolonged proximity?"

You sighed, running a hand through your hair. "It's…subtle. I can control the intensity with direct touch, but there's always a residual effect. Prolonged contact…or even just being in close proximity for an extended period…can accelerate decay in fragile materials." You scowled. "It makes finding a comfortable place to sit a constant challenge."

The unintentional display of your uncontrolled ability served as a stark reminder of the burden you carried. The immense power that made you such a potential asset also made close interaction a constant risk. The three ambitious captains, who had been so eager to recruit you, were now faced with a tangible demonstration of the inherent difficulties of having you as an ally. The humor of their earlier squabble vanished, replaced by a renewed sense of the unpredictable and potentially dangerous nature of the individual before them.

The dust settled around you, a tangible manifestation of the destructive force you constantly had to manage. You looked up at the three captains, their expressions now a mixture of surprise and a dawning understanding.

"It's not just living things," you said, your voice carrying a weary resignation. "Everything I touch…eventually decays. Living, non-living…it’s a constant, subtle erosion. Makes close contact…difficult." The words hung in the air, carrying a weight that went beyond the literal decay of objects. It spoke of a life lived at arm's length, a fear of the inevitable consequence of intimacy.

Luffy, despite his usual boisterousness, was surprisingly quiet. He hopped down from the rooftop, landing softly beside you. His brow was furrowed in thought, his gaze surprisingly empathetic. "So…you gotta be careful all the time?" he asked, his voice softer than usual. He then grinned, his infectious optimism returning. "But that's okay! We're super careful! We'll build you special chairs made of really strong stuff! And you can wear gloves all the time! We'll figure it out! Being with us is always fun! We look out for our nakama!" His offer was simple, heartfelt, a promise of unwavering companionship and practical solutions, a shield against the loneliness your ability seemed to impose.

Kid scoffed, but his usual abrasive tone held a surprising undertone of something akin to understanding, perhaps born from his own experience of being feared and ostracized for his destructive powers. He jumped down, landing with a metallic thud. "Hmph. So you're a walking disaster zone. Big deal. The world's a messed-up place anyway. My crew…we don't shy away from a little destruction. We embrace the chaos. You wouldn't have to hold back with us. We're all outcasts in our own way. You'd find your own brand of freedom with the Kid Pirates. No need for tiptoeing around." His offer was one of acceptance, a promise of belonging amongst those who understood the burden of wielding dangerous power, a place where your ability wouldn't be a curse but a shared characteristic.

Law descended with his usual quiet grace, his sharp gaze assessing you with a newfound depth. "A constant state of controlled decay," he murmured, more to himself than the others. He then looked at you, his expression serious. "The Ope Ope no Mi…it grants the ability to manipulate the very structure of things. Perhaps…there are ways to mitigate the…unintended consequences of your fruit. My crew…we value knowledge and finding solutions to complex problems. We are not afraid of the unconventional. With us, you would have access to resources, to understanding. We offer not just companionship, but a dedicated pursuit of knowledge that could potentially alleviate your burden." His offer was one of intellectual stimulation and the promise of a cure, a path towards understanding and potentially overcoming the limitations of your devastating ability.

The three captains stood before you, their contrasting offers hanging in the night air. Luffy offered simple, unwavering friendship and practical support. Kid offered acceptance and a place amongst fellow outcasts who embraced destruction. Law offered intellectual pursuit and the potential for a solution to your lifelong burden. Each, in their own way, recognized the weight you carried and offered a unique form of solace within the chaotic world of pirates. The choice, as always, remained yours.

The weight of their unexpected empathy settled over you, a stark contrast to the isolation you had long accepted. Three powerful individuals, each with their own ambitions and flaws, offering a form of comfort you hadn't dared to imagine. The gruff acceptance of Kid, the earnest optimism of Luffy, and the intellectual curiosity of Law – each tugged at a different part of you.

You looked from one to the other, a profound sense of…something akin to hope stirring within you, a feeling so unfamiliar it almost felt like a phantom limb twitching. For so long, your ability had been a wall, separating you from genuine connection. Now, these three captains, in their own flawed yet sincere ways, were offering to dismantle that barrier.

A soft sigh escaped your lips. "Your offers…they are…unexpected," you admitted, your voice carrying a tremor of emotion. "I have lived with this…burden…for so long. The thought of…not having to constantly fear a casual touch…it is…difficult to comprehend."

You looked down at your hands, the source of both immense power and profound isolation. "Everything I touch…eventually decays," you repeated, the words carrying a deeper resonance now, tinged with the longing for a different reality.

The three captains remained silent, allowing you to process the moment. The boisterous rivalry that had defined their interactions earlier had faded, replaced by a shared understanding of the unique predicament you faced.

Finally, you raised your gaze, meeting each of theirs in turn. "I…I need time to consider this," you said, your voice still hesitant but firm. "This…is not a decision to be made lightly. My presence…it carries consequences."

Luffy grinned, his usual optimism undeterred. "Take all the time you need! We'll be here!"

Kid grunted in agreement, though his expression was less overtly enthusiastic. "Just don't take too damn long. The world ain't gonna wait for you to make up your mind."

Law simply nodded, his gaze steady and understanding. "A prudent decision. We will respect your need for contemplation."

The tension in the night air eased slightly. The immediate conflict with Kaido's forces still loomed large, but for this brief moment, a different kind of connection had been forged under the starlit sky of Wano. The impossibly strong Y/N, the solitary figure burdened by their own power, was no longer entirely alone. The seeds of potential belonging, however fragile, had been sown. The choice of which path, if any, to take remained shrouded in the uncertainty of the future.

*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚

Choice of straw hats

ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚

The weight of the night's quiet revelations lingered into the dawn. The ravaged landscape of Onigashima was bathed in the pale light of the rising sun, a stark contrast to the turmoil that still gripped the island. You had spent the remaining hours in quiet contemplation, the words of the three captains echoing in your mind. The prospect of companionship, of a life where your touch wasn't a constant source of fear, was a powerful lure.

The next day, as the Straw Hats gathered to plan their next move, a familiar figure emerged from the shadows. You approached them, your usual quiet demeanor carrying a subtle shift, a hint of a decision made.

"Captain Luffy," you said, your gaze meeting his. "I…I am going to stay with you. I think."

Luffy's eyes widened, his face breaking into a grin that could rival the rising sun. "Really?!" he exclaimed, his usual boundless energy returning in a joyous surge. "Shishishi! That's awesome!" He took an instinctive step forward, his hand outstretched to clap you on the shoulder, a gesture of pure, unadulterated joy.

Before his fingers could make contact, you instinctively recoiled, taking a quick step back. A shadow of your usual guardedness flickered across your face. "Captain…my touch…" you began, a note of apology in your voice.

Luffy froze, his outstretched hand suspended in mid-air. The realization dawned on him, the memory of the withered Beast Pirate and the crumbling rooftop a stark reminder. His grin faltered for a fleeting moment, replaced by a look of understanding.

"Oh," he said softly, his hand dropping back to his side. "Right. I forgot." A beat of silence passed, and then his grin returned, even wider than before, somehow undimmed by the physical barrier. "It's okay!" he declared, his voice full of his characteristic optimism. "We can figure it out! No touching rule for me! Easy peasy!" He bounced on the balls of his feet, his excitement palpable.

"I…I apologize, Captain," you murmured, a wave of guilt washing over you. The very person who had offered you such unconditional acceptance was the one you had to keep at a distance.

Luffy waved his hand dismissively. "Don't worry about it! It's your power, right? It's cool! Super strong! We just gotta be a little careful, that's all!" He bounded closer, stopping just out of arm's reach, his eyes shining with genuine affection. There was a warmth in his gaze, an unadulterated admiration that went beyond your strength. He liked you. A lot. An instinctive pull, a sense of rightness whenever you were near, resonated within him, a feeling so new and powerful he couldn't quite name it, but it felt…good. Like finding his favorite meat after a long journey.

The rest of the Straw Hats watched the exchange with a mixture of relief and concern. They were glad you had chosen to stay, recognizing the immense power you brought, but the inherent danger of your touch was not lost on them.

Nami stepped forward cautiously. "Luffy, are you sure about this? We need to be careful. One wrong move…"

Luffy just grinned, his gaze fixed on you. "Don't worry, Nami! I'm rubber! Nothing can hurt me!" He paused, then added with a disarming sincerity, "Besides…Y/N wouldn't hurt us. I can tell."

Zoro grunted, leaning against a nearby wall. "Just try not to turn our ship into a pile of splinters."

Robin smiled gently. "Welcome aboard, Y/N. We are…an unconventional crew, but we value our nakama above all else. We will find a way to navigate this."

You looked at the Straw Hats, their faces a mixture of curiosity and acceptance. Despite the obvious challenges your ability presented, they were willing to welcome you, to find a way to make it work. A warmth spread through you, a feeling of belonging you had never truly experienced before.

"Thank you," you said softly, a genuine smile finally gracing your lips. "I…I will do my best to be careful."

Luffy's grin widened even further, his chest swelling with a feeling he couldn't quite place, a warmth that bloomed in his chest whenever he looked at you. He wanted to be closer, to share his food, to laugh alongside you. He just…felt good when you were around. He didn't understand the depth of it yet, the way his heart did a little flip whenever you looked his way, the almost painful longing to bridge the physical gap your power created. All he knew was that having you here, with them, felt right.

"Alright!" Luffy declared, clapping his hands together. "Let's go kick Kaido's butt! With Y/N on our side, we're unstoppable!" He turned to you, his eyes shining with anticipation. "Ready to go, Y/N?"

Choice of Kid pirates

The weight of their offers lingered in the quiet of the night. You spent the remaining hours in silent contemplation, the distant sounds of the battle a muted backdrop to your internal struggle. The thought of truly belonging, of not having to constantly guard against the unintended consequences of your touch, was both terrifying and alluring. Each captain offered a different facet of what you had unknowingly craved: acceptance, camaraderie, purpose.

As the first rays of dawn painted the ravaged sky in hues of orange and grey, a decision, still fragile but firm, began to take root. The raw, untamed energy of the Kid Pirates, their defiant stance against the world, and the surprising flicker of understanding in Kid’s crimson eyes resonated with a part of you that had long been suppressed. The idea of embracing the chaos, rather than constantly fighting against it, held a certain rebellious appeal. And perhaps, just perhaps, in their company, your destructive power wouldn't always feel like such a solitary curse.

The next day, as the three allied pirate crews gathered once more, a murmur rippled through the assembled ranks. Standing amongst the familiar, punk-inspired attire of the Kid Pirates, was you. You stood slightly behind Kid, your presence still carrying that air of quiet power, but there was a subtle shift in your demeanor, a hint of a newfound…belonging?

Kid, for his part, stood a little straighter, a rare, almost possessive smirk playing on his lips. He didn't make a grand announcement, didn't need to. Your presence amongst his crew spoke volumes.

You stepped forward slightly, your gaze meeting the surprised eyes of Luffy and the more analytical stare of Law. "I have made a decision," you stated, your voice clear and steady. "I am going to stay with you." Your eyes flickered briefly to Kid, a subtle acknowledgment passing between you.

A wide grin erupted on Luffy's face. "Shishishi! You chose someone!" He looked slightly disappointed it wasn't him, but his inherent good nature prevented any real resentment. "Have fun with the metal guy!"

Law’s expression remained impassive, though a flicker of something unreadable crossed his eyes. "I see. Your choice is…intriguing." He offered a curt nod, his pragmatism likely already assessing the implications of this new alliance.

The Kid Pirates, however, erupted in cheers and boisterous shouts of approval. Killer, ever the stoic first mate, offered a rare nod of acknowledgment. The crew seemed to sense their captain’s unspoken…affection…for you, a possessiveness that had been evident in his initial interactions.

Later that day, aboard the Victoria Punk, as the Kid Pirates navigated the treacherous waters surrounding Onigashima, you found yourself leaning against the railing, the salty wind whipping through your hair. Kid approached you, his usual gruff exterior softened ever so slightly.

"So," he began, shoving his hands into his pockets, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "You actually decided to stick around. Didn't think you had it in you to commit." There was a teasing edge to his voice, but underneath, a layer of genuine…something…flickered.

You turned to him, a small smile playing on your lips. "Commitment was never the issue, Captain. It was finding a place where…my touch…wasn't always a liability."

Kid’s gaze met yours, and for a fleeting moment, the usual arrogance in his crimson eyes softened, replaced by something that could almost be described as…tenderness. He cleared his throat, looking away again, a rare blush dusting his cheeks.

"Well," he mumbled, his voice gruffer than usual. "Don't think this means I'm going soft or anything. You're just…another strong asset. That's all." But the way his crew exchanged knowing glances behind his back told a different story. The notoriously aloof Captain Eustass Kid had clearly developed a significant…attachment…to the mysterious and powerful Y/N. And as the Victoria Punk sailed towards an uncertain future in the tumultuous seas of Wano, a new and unpredictable dynamic had been forged within the ranks of the Kid Pirates.

Choice of the Heart Pirates

The night gave way to a tense dawn over Onigashima. The fragile truce between the three pirate crews held, a silent understanding that the common enemy took precedence, for now. You spent the early hours in quiet contemplation, the weight of the previous night's revelations pressing down on you. The sincerity in the captains' offers had been unexpected, stirring emotions you had long suppressed.

The following day unfolded with a strained sense of normalcy. Scouting parties were dispatched, strategies were discussed (and often vehemently debated), and the uneasy alliance continued its precarious dance. You found yourself observing Law and his crew more closely. Their movements were precise, their interactions efficient, and a quiet camaraderie permeated their ranks. There was a sense of purpose that resonated with the part of you that yearned for order amidst the chaos of your own existence. Law, in particular, held an air of intellectual curiosity and a detached intensity that intrigued you. He treated you with a respectful distance, never pressing for an answer but his gaze often lingered on you, a thoughtful, almost searching quality in his dark eyes.

One afternoon, as the sun beat down on the ravaged landscape, Law found you perched on a relatively stable rooftop, observing the distant movements of Kaido's forces. He approached you with his usual quiet grace.

"You seem…contemplative," he observed, leaning against a crumbling wall beside you.

You nodded, your gaze still fixed on the horizon. "The weight of decision…it is not easily dismissed."

Law was silent for a moment, then spoke in a low voice. "The burden of your ability…it is significant. To live with such a constant threat…it must be isolating."

His quiet understanding resonated with you in a way the more boisterous reassurances of Luffy or the rough acceptance of Kid had not. There was a shared sense of carrying a heavy weight, albeit in different forms.

"It is," you admitted, finally turning to meet his gaze. "The world…it withers in my presence, however subtly. Connection…it feels like a dangerous indulgence."

Law's gaze held yours, a flicker of something unreadable in their depths. "But you still seek it," he stated, not as a question, but as an observation. "Otherwise, you would have departed long ago."

His insight surprised you. You had always prided yourself on your inscrutability, yet this man seemed to see a vulnerability you had carefully guarded.

"Perhaps," you conceded, a faint whisper of a word.

He was silent again, then offered a small, almost hesitant smile. "My crew…we are a peculiar bunch. Misfits, each with their own burdens. But we have found a sense of belonging, a shared purpose. Perhaps…you could find something similar with us. We value intellect, strategy, and…compassion, in our own way."

His words, coupled with the quiet competence and unexpected warmth you had observed within the Heart Pirates, resonated deeply. The promise of understanding, of a shared intellectual curiosity, and the subtle hint of acceptance offered a potential anchor in your otherwise solitary existence.

The next day, as the three captains were once again embroiled in a heated (and rather childish) argument about whose plan to infiltrate Kaido's fortress was superior, you made your decision. You approached Law, your steps deliberate.

"Captain Trafalgar," you said, your voice clear and steady.

He turned to you, his usual guarded expression softening slightly with anticipation. Luffy and Kid, mid-shout, also fell silent, their attention drawn to your unexpected address.

"I have considered your offer," you continued, meeting Law's gaze directly. "I will join your crew."

A subtle, almost imperceptible shift occurred in Law's demeanor. His eyes, usually so carefully controlled, held a flicker of something akin to relief, quickly masked but not entirely hidden from your observant gaze. A ghost of a smile touched his lips.

"I see," he said, his voice calm but with an underlying note of satisfaction. "Welcome aboard."

Luffy and Kid stared, their mouths agape. "Eh?! You chose Law's crew?!" they exclaimed in unison, their competitive spirits clearly wounded.

You offered them a small, polite nod. "Each of your offers held merit. But I believe…my abilities and my…inclinations…align most closely with Captain Trafalgar's crew."

As the Straw Hats and Kid Pirates grumbled amongst themselves, Law turned to his crew, a subtle air of authority settling over him. "We have a new member. Treat them with respect." His words were simple but carried an unspoken weight.

Life with the Heart Pirates settled into a rhythm, a blend of strategic planning, medical expertise, and quiet camaraderie. You found a sense of purpose in contributing your unique perspective and formidable abilities to their endeavors. Law, while maintaining a professional distance in public, often sought your counsel in private, his sharp intellect appreciating your insightful observations. He ensured you had comfortable, reinforced spaces, and the crew, under his unspoken directive, were mindful of your touch.

Unbeknownst to the rest of the Heart Pirates (and certainly to Luffy and Kid), Law harbored a deeper affection for you than mere camaraderie. From the moment his gaze had first lingered on your still, powerful form in the Wano tavern, an inexplicable pull had taken root. He was a man of logic and strategy, not given to impulsive emotions, yet something about your quiet strength and the melancholic aura that surrounded you had resonated with him on a profound level. He admired your intellect, the subtle power you wielded with such careful control, and the hidden vulnerability you occasionally revealed. He kept these feelings carefully guarded, masked beneath his usual stoic exterior, content for now to have you by his side, a silent promise of deeper connection held within the confines of his own complex heart. The journey ahead was uncertain, fraught with peril, but with you by his side, a quiet hope bloomed within the Surgeon of Death.

Masterlist

[a-hermit-pining]

LaDs Men as RomCom Movies

AN: Sylus' is major canon divergence. But that is the way of romcoms. I reckon this blog needs some fluff after the last post.

Pairing: LaDS boys x gn reader

Genre: rom com au, canon divergence

Ingredients: 100% fluff

My Fav: hmmmmm idk

(I do not own any of these characters)

Rafayel: Midnight in Paris 🧜🏻‍♂️

You were just an archaeologist. Specializing in Lemurian court ruins. Quiet. Logical. Never believed in myths. Only in stratigraphy and proper carbon dating.

So naturally, it made sense when you were cataloging an unclassified pearl and stepped through a half-collapsed archway… only for the world to shift around you.

Gone was the dig site. In its place: marble columns, flowing water, and a spring that shimmered like it was blessed by a god.

Which, as it turns out...it was.

A man...no, a siren, lounged lazily in the center of the pool, draped in silks and annoyance. He blinked at you. Stared.

Then said, in accented Lemurian: “A mortal? How dare you.”

A bar of soap hit your head. You blinked.

He blinked harder.“…Leave before I drown you out of sheer embarrassment,” he muttered, sinking slightly into the water.

You should run. You should record. You should definitely not flirt with the shirtless demigod pouting in a moonlit pool.

And yet. "You're real," you breathed.

Rafayel rolled his eyes. “Unfortunately.”

Xavier: 10 Things I hate About You 🤺

It started as a bet. A desperate one.

The knights of House Flame, exhausted, bruised, and teetering on the edge of mutiny, cornered Crown Prince Xavier behind the barracks and begged him for mercy.

“Just one night,” they said. “One gods damned evening without patrol rotations or combat drills or Captain Death’s Right Hook breathing down our necks.”

The condition? Get the captain to attend the royal ball.

Easy, Xavier thought. How hard could it be to charm a soldier? Then he met you.

You, with your armor still half on and your sword strapped across your back at the banquet table. You, who glared at the string quartet like they’d personally offended your ancestors.

He tried every line he had. You blocked every one with a deadpan stare and a curt, “I don’t dance.”

He said it was strategy training. You said it was entrapment. He brought flowers. You threw them at his second-in-command.

And yet. Here he was. At the ball. With you.

You in dark crimson, your armor traded for something that somehow still made you look like war incarnate. Your fingers on his. Your brow furrowed like you were still trying to figure out why the hell you were here.

The knights cheered from the edge of the ballroom. The bet was won. But Xavier wasn’t thinking about that anymore.

Because somewhere between your refusal to waltz and the way you let him twirl you, once, clumsily, but with a smile, he realized something terrifying.

He wanted a second dance. And this time, he wouldn’t need a wager to get it.

Zayne: Me, Before You 👩🏻‍🦼‍➡️

He’d done this before.

Treated war survivors. Cursed aristocrats. One fire witch who tried to hex the entire ward because her IV drip was "aesthetically insulting."

That’s why he had the reputation he did.

So when famous Dr. Zayne was assigned to you, the terminally ill, emotionally volatile heir of a very wealthy (and very dramatic) family. He didn’t expect much.

Another spoiled patient. Another person who’d given up long before the prognosis did.

What he didn’t expect was to be:

Forced to judge midnight wheelchair races in your family’s marble hallways ("Speed is relative, Zayne, don’t be boring.")

Learning to DIY allergen-safe brownies that wouldn’t send you to the afterlife faster than fate already planned

Thrusted into corset duty during an impromptu costume ball you hosted in your bedroom ("Don’t ask." "I wasn’t going to." "You paused." "...Fair.")

He was supposed to be your doctor.

Not your chaos coordinator.

Not your reluctant best friend.

And definitely not the man who sits on your balcony every sunset, holding your hand like he’s already mourning something that hasn’t happened yet.

Sylus: The Proposal 💍

When Sylus, yes, that Sylus, head of Onichynus, past dragon, terrifying, charming, a little too beautiful to be legal, tells you you’re getting married…

You assume it’s a joke.

“Married,” you repeat.

He nods once, solemn. “To me.”

Pause. “…Why.”

“There’s an inheritance clause. Council won’t release the southern territories unless I present a bonded partner.” He looks away like it pains him. “I would rather die than marry any of the harpies they lined up. So.”

He slides the ring box across the table.

You open it. There’s an actual, live ruby in it. It purrs.

Next thing you know, you’re flying first-class (on the back of his cousin) to his ancestral villa in the Drakherin mountains, where:

His grandmother keeps saying “finally”. His cousin tries to duel you for fun. The staff already embroidered your initials on the sheets. And Sylus keeps doing things like pulling you close for warmth and forgetting to let go

“You’re doing it again,” you mutter one night, pressed against his chest.

“What?”

“Holding me like it’s real.”

He stiffens. Then shrugs. “Maybe I’m just a good actor.”

“You’re literally growling when I talk to other people.”

“Authenticity is important.” He murmurs, suddenly very interested in the satin pillowcase.

Caleb: 13 Going on 30 ⏳

You wake up in a bed that isn’t yours. The ceiling’s too high. The sheets are too soft. The arm around you is heavy. Cold. Metal.

You scream. You fling yourself out of the bed with so much force that you hit the floor sideways, taking the blanket and your dignity, with you.

The man in the bed bolts upright. Half-asleep. Half-naked and fully terrifying. “Pips?!” he shouts, voice panicked. “Are you hurt?!”

You point at him. “DO NOT CALL ME THAT!”

He stops mid-motion. Eyes wide yet confused.

You crawl backward. “You’re a STRANGER and you have a METAL ARM and WHY ARE YOU IN MY BED?!”

He stares. “I...this is my bed?”

“You’re lying!”

“I’m not—”

“You know my nickname!” He looks even more confused. “I know everything about you.”

GROSS.” You grab a pillow and yeet it at him with alarming force. “STALKER.”

“I’m not...Pips, it’s me. It’s Caleb.”

You freeze. Blink once. Stare at him. “…No you’re not,” you whisper.

“Yes. I am.”

“Caleb is twelve. He likes bugs and eats chalk and cried when I kicked him in tag.” You squint at him like he’s an imposter sent by a very dramatic cult. “You have, like, abs. And a jawline. And chest hair. Caleb is my age and has braces, okay?!”

He blinks. “Huh... what?”

Your eyes widen. “CALEB!!” you scream, full volume, as you bolt from the bed and take off sprinting through the unfamiliar apartment. Clearly this man had abducted you. Or time-cloned you. Or age-spelled you into your thirties and was trying to pretend to be your best friend.

Either way, this was STRANGER DANGER: LEVEL APOCALYPSE. The transformer man yells after you. You shriek again and dive behind a dresser.

He follows, confused and shirtless, cautiously peeking around the corner. “Pips, please,”

You grab a lamp. “I SWEAR I’LL THROW THIS,” you warn, shaking.

“…That’s grandma’s heirloom.”