#zoro is the only thing in my head these days just spinning around like a rotisserie chicken

[eureka-its-zico]

Chaos in Their Bones

Ongoing Series

Synopsis: All your life you’d listened to your friend, Usopp spin wild tales about pirates and adventure. Pirates weren’t a thing that came often to Syrup Village, but one straw hat pirate and his crew changed all that the day they arrived. Now, you aren’t so sure if your sleepy little village was always pirate-free or if no one had been paying attention. 

Pairing: Roronoa Zoro x Reader

Genre: friends to lovers, frienemies to lovers, slow burn (I hope y’all like aching) eventual smut

Words: 5k+

A/N: I told myself I wasn’t going to do this, so naturally I did it anyway. This is the first chapter in a planned series with a reader insert following the events of the OPLA universe. I sincerely hope that this is a story you all love as this is my first initial time writing for one of my beloved anime. But let’s be real, after seeing Mackenyu play Zoro (my fav) I knew I was going to be whipped from the start. The reader will go by “Doc” in this story at times, and later a nickname by Zoro himself.  As always, I hope you enjoy this. Much love, Jenn. Also, thank you @thegreatesttttttttt for indulging me.

Next

The ringing of the bell thundered through the sky above. An upcoming warning of four words that would echo through the street's moments later. 

“The pirates are coming!”

You could practically hear the rest of the town groan with a sigh. Their annoyance stunk up the streets as Usopp sounded the imaginary alarm as he usually did every day around this time. Maybe it was because you considered Usopp a friend that his tall tales and wild imagination didn’t bother you. 

Instead, a sly smile tilted your lips as you continued to grind the seeds deep into the mortar. Mr. Edison’s gruff voice from outside your window reminded Usopp for the millionth time that he needed to stop as he sprinted past. 

“What is that boy going on about?” Naan huffed.

You sent a quick glance behind your shoulder at the older woman who was currently folding the recently washed linens. All of them are used with a purpose to either staunch bloody wounds or for the simple purpose of relieving colds. Naan’s linens, like her home, were used for a multitude of healing services, with the only payment she accepted was that of the kindness of others around her. 

“You already know, Naan,” you replied, your smile evident in your words. “It’s the usual afternoon reminder to stay on your toes.”

A deep chuckle came from behind you followed by the soft cough that came after. 

“These toes can’t do very much standing. So, maybe tell your friend to give me a day of rest soon.”

“Usopp has done this every day for seven years. I don’t think anything anyone will ever say will make him stop.”

Even if you could get Usopp to stop, you wouldn’t be the one to make him. You weren’t sure how many people in town knew who his father was - or that he’d been a pirate. A father by suggestion, Usopp’s wild imagination could only recall small things from the stories his mother had been willing to share, and from those stories, even greater ones grew.

While everyone else may have found Usopp’s stories as an ever-present headache you knew they held a deeper meaning. They were the only thing he knew of a man he never got to know. 

The sound of chair legs creaking across the floor cut you out of your thoughts. Just in time from the looks of the seed putty you’d created. A heavy thud on the boards informed you Naan grabbed her cane and the heavier shuffling of her feet that she was heading in your direction. 

“What are you so intently making over here, child?”

Settling down the pestle, you reached over your workstation to grab a pot. You were going to need to fetch some water to bring everything to a bowl before you strained it into a jar. 

“Water. I need to go get some water,” you murmured as you brought the pot down in front of you.

“Am I talking to myself?”

“Oh, I’m sorry, Naan. Did you say something?”

This time you did dare to look at her. Her deep-set wrinkles set impossibly deeper as she regarded your work from over your shoulder. 

“Oh, I only asked what you were making that was stinking up my kitchen.”

Your eyes flew open wide as you took a deep breath in. You were sure the only thing you’d put in that maybe - maybe - smelled was the slippery elm, but you hadn’t even steeped it in the water yet. Naan must have read your panic before it began to stitch your brow together. Your eyes still helplessly peeled to the job in front of you instead of the chuckling woman behind you. 

“It’s fine, child. I’m just teasing you.”

All your panic rushed out in a huff of air as your body finally turned to greet her. Your eyes instantly took in the very tired look of hers. 

“You should get some rest, Naan.”

The two of you knew you meant well. You would never try and make Naan feel older than she already felt, except you didn’t give a damn about her feelings when you could easily spot the sweat on her upper lip. The way her body leaned more into the cane that supported her. She batted your concern away with a swat of her free hand. As if it would be enough to make whatever fear that gripped at your heart magically disappear.  

“Don’t patronize me. I’m fine.”

“You are not fine. You're wheezing with every breath now-“

“I said I’m fine. Leave me alone and start worrying about whatever it is you’re making.”

“Well,  if you would stop interrupting me, maybe I could finish it!”

The irritation in your voice wasn’t hard to miss. Naan heard it too no doubt with the way her brow cocked as if begging you to repeat it. 

The silence stretched uncomfortably between you. Naan wouldn’t even look at you - probably too scared to see your eyes pleading, full of worry for her to just go lay down. 

Why must you always be so stubborn? 

The question sat on your tongue and made your words form like molasses. You weren’t a child anymore. So, it begged the question of why you were still afraid to speak to her like an adult. It didn’t matter if what you said hurt her old feelings. Not when the thought of her not being around made your chest begin to spread wide like an aching chasm. 

“You never did say what you were making.”

You pressed your tongue against your cheek while you debated if it would be worth it to try and argue with her. Of course, you were always the first one to relent and push it under the metaphorical rug.

“It’s a gift for Miss Kaya. Usopp told me her cough hadn’t changed and asked if I would make something for her.”

“Hmm,” Naan hummed in thought. “That boy is strange, but he is kind.”

“Not as strange as Kaya having an unknown illness the last few years and never seeking any aid from the town's doctor,” you grumbled. 

Naan’s hand lightly clasped your shoulder in comfort - comfort you didn’t want to accept. Not only were thoughts of Naan being sick plaguing every ounce of free space in your brain but now so was Kaya. You’d only met her once when you were younger with Usopp and after her parents died that odd butler, Klahadore, kept her under strict observation. 

In all the years you’d been with Naan, learning everything she could teach about healing, you’d found it odd that the staff never came to ask for help. You couldn’t recall a time when Sham or Buchi ever came down requesting any tonics or medicines from Naan, or for her to come with them to examine Kaya in the first place. 

I wasn’t aware they were waitstaff and doctors. 

You knew these thoughts would only dampen your mood until it turned completely sour. You just couldn’t stop the runaway train that was your thoughts from slipping back into questioning everything with the universe never giving you any new answers. 

“How many times have I told you, child, we can’t make people get help. They have to seek it themselves and that- that is when the real healing begins.”

You were already bitter and that bitterness responded to Naan’s words in the form of an eye roll. One you were lucky the older woman didn’t see. 

“It’s just not right.” 

“Right or not, it’s not our place to go butting in.”

She stood behind you for a few more minutes waiting for a reply you didn’t give. You were done talking. Done trying to get her to understand that she was sick too and that all those years of molding words and actions to help others were what drove you to help her. To help Kaya. Only Usopp seemed to notice that something in her grand home wasn’t right. 

Frustration drew tight across your chest causing your hands to seek support against the counter. For a split second, you imagined yourself splitting open and becoming two separate people. One being the doctor Naan trained you to be and the other something less controlled. Someone who was tired of listening but never being heard. 

You listened as Naan began to retreat back to her table where the rest of the linens waited to be folded. You listened as another terrible cough violently shook itself free from her lungs as you focused on your work. 

If you couldn’t help Naan you were just going to settle for helping Miss Kaya. Once you finished making Usopp’s requested medicine you were going to be sure he delivered it to her. 

It was time a doctor paid a visit. 

————

The shipyard. 

Of course, Usopp was going to be here. Why you hadn't thought to come here first felt like a mystery all on its own. 

In all the years you’d known him, Usopp’s routine hardly ever changed. He usually performed his usual pirate ritual just before he started his day in the shipyard. He was hired to care for and clean all of the ships housed within, however, and upon no real surprise to you, Usopp cleaned and polished the Going Merry daily. 

So, it didn’t surprise you to find him already on the ship. What did surprise you were the three people standing with him steps away from the Going Merry, herself. 

You didn’t feel alarmed in any way. Usopp was good with people - he enjoyed talking to anyone willing to listen. The man with the straw hat, who was grinning wildly in the direction of Usopp and then to his friends, seemed happy to listen. He was giving Usopp his full attention and whatever your friend was saying was exactly what Straw Hat wanted to hear. 

The other two people beside him, however, didn’t seem to share in the excitement. Sure, the pretty woman with the orange hair was giving all the perfect signaling queues of a smile and nod to make it believable that she was interested in anything Usopp had to say. Did she probably care about whatever was being said? Probably not, but at least she didn’t look as sour as the moss-hair-colored guy- 

Holy shit

Your feet stopped working. Your knees seemed to refuse to bend, to make any movement forward for the last few feet to close the distance to the group. For what reason? There had to be a perfectly good reason- 

Nope. Thoughts gone. Head empty. 

That was the best way to describe what was currently happening as your eyes stayed glued to the three-sword-wielding swordsman standing next to the woman. 

Three swords? You wondered. Where does the other one go?

Maybe you would ask him if you ever summed up the courage to do just that. If you could just get your legs to function again. 

In all the time you’d lived on Shell Island you were more than positive you’d never seen someone that looked close to him. Especially someone carrying around three swords or standing with so much purpose. Even as your eyes took him in you could tell he was pretending to be relaxed, but after years of mending bodies, you noticed the tightness between his shoulder blades. The ease he tried to display with a hand resting on the hilt of the sword wasn’t actually resting. Even relaxed, this man was ready to unsheathe those blades and use them at a moment's notice. 

While the idea made you consider him a great swordsman, your heart also ached at the thought of feeling trapped and weary of others' intentions. 

Your thoughts would’ve continued to run wild as you embarrassingly gawked at this stranger and his friends. All of that was ruined, however, when Usopp caught a glimpse of you between orange and green hair. 

“Doc!”

Usopp’s excitement translated to a crazy arm wave and immediately caused all three of his newfound friends to face you. God, this meant you had to get your legs working. You had to physically move closer. You could do that. No problem. 

Taking in a deep breath, you allowed a genuine smile to raise your lips in welcome. Luckily, your feet didn’t betray you as you moved the last few feet. You made a mental note as you got closer that the straw hat was meeting your smile with his own, while the other two regarded you with lackluster enthusiasm. 

Great. They were the grumpy types of people. 

“There you are Usopp,” you began cheerfully. “I’ve been looking all over for you.” 

“You know, Usopp?” Asked straw hat. 

You felt your brow crease in question as your smile wilted at the corners. 

“I would hope so. We’ve known each other since we’ve lived here.”

“Impressive,” mumbled the woman. 

Okay, maybe she wasn’t as friendly as you originally thought, but she was still definitely friendlier than moss hair. Who currently felt like he was drilling holes into your chest. 

“Ugh, Doc I was just going to take these guys to visit, Kaya,” Usopp interjected. 

He was still smiling - always smiling. His eyes darted to the three new faces before landing back at you. 

“Why would you take them to see, Kaya?”

“She owns the shipyard and we-“Straw hat interjected, “Are in need of a ship. That beautiful ship behind us, to be exact.” 

You glanced behind him to the Going Merry. Kaya’s family ship. 

You shot Usopp a questioning glance that you weren’t surprised to see him ignore. He was up to something there was no doubting that. The issue was you weren’t sure what angle he was trying to play. 

“Good luck with that.” 

You did mean it. You didn’t think he was going to get it no matter how good-natured he seemed. That was still a family memory you weren’t sure Kaya would be willing to part with. 

“Thanks!”

“Doc, before I take them over there do you by chance have what I asked for?”

You patted your satchel for good measure before you replied, “That’s why I was looking for you. I have it right here.” 

Usopp took a step towards you, his hand outstretched in waiting for you to deposit the bottle. When you didn’t comply with his request he shot you a look of worry. 

“You do have it right?”

“Yes, Usopp I told you I did. I just want to come with you to check on her myself.”

A look of worry dimmed the mirth in his eyes for one second. If you didn’t know what to look for you would have missed it entirely. You knew he’d been asking you for months to sneak in with him to visit Kaya. His own suspicions began to outweigh the doubt that plagued his heart with every heavy decision that needed to be made. 

Deep down, Usopp knew if you were finally going to answer his request of sneaking in with him, it must be serious. A concept Usopp himself purposely tried to run from often. 

“Wait, you’re a doctor? That is so cool!” 

You needed to learn Straw Hat’s name because he was growing on you fast. 

“I’m no-“

“She’s actually one of the best doctors in the whole East Blue,” Usopp beamed. “She’s cured this small village of at least two possible plague outbreaks twice already.” 

You were willing to bet your eyes were the size of saucers. There was no way any of them would believe that kind of nonsense. There was absolutely no way- 

“Wow, now that is really impressive! Sounds just like somebody who should be a part of my crew-“

“No!”

“We are not a crew!”

The absolute verbal whiplash you just experienced left your head reeling to pick up on every conversation. Straw Hat was practically turning into pure sunshine in front of you, while the other two were glaring like you’d sprouted three heads. 

Geez, what a tough crowd. 

“Ok, wait what?”

“It’s nothing he doesn’t mean anything by it,” the woman replied, a tight smile thinning out her lips. 

“We don’t need someone pretending to play medicine woman to join us.” 

Your eyes narrowed in on the now green-haired monster. He met your cold glance with his own. Whoever - whatever - he experienced in his life meant he didn’t find you the least bit threatening. He regarded you like an annoyance and you found yourself wondering why the universe made all the grumpy ones the most attractive. 

If his lips pouted any harder he was going to have to rent a kissing booth. 

“For your information, I’m not a pretend doctor.”

Whatever he was going to reply with was cut off by Straw hat who quickly pointed at himself. “I’m Luffy, and these are my companions Nami and Zoro.” 

“It’s nice to meet you, Luffy,” you beamed letting them know your name in response. “But most people just refer to me as Doc because of Usopp.” 

Nami clapped her hands together to bring you both back to the matter at hand. Kaya’s medicine. Their boat. 

“Now that the pleasantries are out of the way, can we get going? We really should stop by and pay her a visit.” 

“Oh yeah! Come on guys, I can show you the fastest way there.” 

Usopp tossed down his rag and skipped backward to the crate where his own satchel sat. 

“Great! If you guys will kindly follow me this way I can show you something really awesome.” 

You wanted to smack some sense into him. Usopp always wanted to be liked - for people to spend time with him and enjoy it. Besides Kaya and you who humored him with his opulent imagination and ability to spin fables like cotton candy. These people, Luffy excluded, did not deserve his endearing desire for friendship. They were both giving off major chip on their shoulder vibes and you vowed to become an even bigger pain in the ass if they were unnecessarily rude to him. 

They didn’t wait to know if you were joining them or even behind them. They all moved forward to follow Usopp, who was spit-firing a conversation at Luffy who easily seemed to match it with his own charisma. Nami and Zoro trudged behind them both and you brought up the rear. 

You’d hoped at some point Luffy or Usopp would drag you into the conversation. Anything that would keep your wandering eyes from constantly burrowing holes between Zoro’s sculpted shoulders. If you didn’t locate some form of self-control soon, you were positive your brain would be sent spinning into a tangent about how martial arts training with weapons was a godsend. So, looking at your feet for the next few miles would have to suffice. 

It was strange how the world between poverty and the rich was such an overwhelming force. The farther you ventured out past the town and into the privacy of the landscape that kept Kaya’s family home hidden, it was a wonder that anyone would know it was there. 

There were endless strawberry fields that farmers planted on one side and potatoes on the other. Dozens of workers tended to their growth with their hard work and sweat until a wall of bamboo cut off any view. All you could see was an endless path swallowed in bamboo branches making the path more foreboding than you thought necessary. 

When you finally came in through the front gates, their iron and mortar was a welcomed sight. The one thing that wasn’t was that stupid Well you’d grown to hate ever since you almost fell in looking over the side as a child. 

“I’ve never seen a house this big before.” 

Luffy’s admission sent your eyes up from your feet to the large garden entrance. And that damned well that sat like a mockery in the middle of the walkway to the front. 

“It’s impressive, right? Kaya’s given me an open invitation to stop by anytime I want.” 

Your eyes darted over to Usopp who was practically skipping with excitement as he and Luffy made their way over to the well. You wanted him to look at you, but you knew he wouldn’t. If he did, Usopp would only find you looking at him - full of questions - with a look calling him a liar. You would never want him to feel bad. It was never your intention, however, it was going to be more embarrassing if you all got caught and thrown out on your ass than just being honest. 

“Wow. That’s pretty awesome,” Luffy breathed. His face was full of wonder as he continued to take in the large space. “All of this is just for one person?”

“Well…she lives here with a few other staff.”

“Yeah. A bunch of asshole staff,” you grumbled under your breath.

By the way, Luffy and Usopp were hanging over the side of the well - ick - neither of them had heard you. Unfortunately, your fellow rear buddies did. 

“You don’t seem to be a fan of the staff?” Nami ventured. 

You eyed her carefully. She came off friendly enough, but she wasn’t giving anything else away. The small smile on her lips wasn’t reaching her eyes. Instead, they were calculating and waiting for you to give her any information you were willing or unwilling to give. 

Nami was incredibly smart and equally dangerous because of it. 

“They do a lot of suspicious things,” you replied slowly, unsure of how much sharing was too much. 

“I’m sure butlers don’t come harboring life-threatening secrets,” Zoro countered.

His hand shoved in a pocket while the other still rested on the sword. He regarded you the way adults do children making up fairytales. The way the townspeople looked at Usopp like a silly child always crying wolf. They both thought you were being silly, and you wish you could say their disregard didn’t make your chest cave in just a bit, but you never were a good liar. 

“No, maybe butlers don’t,” you countered, “but people do.”

When neither of them showed signs of continuing on with the conversation you started forward following Usopp and Luffy. You didn’t care about whatever conversation Zoro or Nami were having behind you. They could’ve been discussing robbing the place blind for all you could care about. 

You were worried more about the people than the objects inside. 

“If you have an invitation, why are we going through the back way?”

Just tell them, Usopp. 

“Oh, well I never go through the front entrance. This is more of a VIP entrance.”

“This guy is full of shit.”

“Yeah, but if he gets us inside who cares.” 

Why was Luffy the only member of this merry band of misfits who weren’t incredibly grumpy? 

“Usopp,” you called out to him in a warning. 

He gave you a glance over his shoulder before he made his way over the giant lily pads without a reply. 

Little shit, you thought as you realized he was very much choosing to ignore your existence. Did you blame him? Not really. You couldn’t remember the last time anyone had humored him this long and you were debating on if you should be the one to crush his newfound hopes and dreams. 

Fortunately for you, you weren’t going to have to be the bad guy in that scenario. One already seemed to exist. 

Just as Usopp reached the second lily pad, you knew something was wrong. The hiccup of an, “Oh,” that came out of him registering as panic. He was already turning back to stop Luffy from coming closer, almost begging him to go to another entrance - an extra special one - when he was interrupted by a knife plunging into the lily pad between his feet. 

A very sharp knife. One you knew could’ve easily severed flesh or nicked an artery. Your blood boiled as you pushed past Luffy, your eyes darting wildly as Buchi stalked towards Usopp who stuttered past a greeting. 

“What the hell are you doing here, Usopp?” He snapped as his hands lurched in to grasp the leather of Usopp’s top. “You know you aren’t welcome here.” 

“I know nothing of the sort. I came to give Kaya an extra-special gift.”

You practically glided past the last lily pad when a sharp hiss cut the air. You didn’t necessarily need to look to see if it was Sham. You knew it was. She stood just off the first step from where they’d been disemboweling the hog, mop at the ready, and her teeth bared directly at you.

“He’s brought the doctor,” she hissed. 

Buchi finally seemed to register your presence from behind Usopp and bared his own teeth in warning. 

“You are definitely not welcome here.”

“A rather odd thing to say to a healer when your mistress seems to be suffering a mysterious illness.”

“An illness we are more than capable of handling.”

“I find that highly doubtful.”

With his hands still holding onto Usopp, Buchi leaned forward to growl - literally growl - in your face like a rabid dog. You wanted to poke him in the eye and were incredibly tempted to do so when a soft voice cut through the tension. 

“Usopp! What a wonderful surprise!”

Everyone’s attention shifted as Kaya made her entrance on the arm of Klahadore. You took a step back and away from the two just so Usopp could twist himself free and walk towards the waiting mistress of the estate. 

“I wouldn’t miss today of all days. Happy birthday, Kaya.”

“You remembered.”

My god, she was practically swooning and Usopp was eating it up. 

“I could never forget.” 

This feels awkward. 

They acted like they didn’t have a captive audience watching them look at each other like two lovestruck teenagers. 

It wasn’t hard to notice how Kaya beamed at him or how that attention brought happiness to Usopp. For as long as you can remember, even as children, Usopp always liked her. Sure, he would play it off as if they were just friends. There was no way she could see him that way, but when Kaya’s parents passed away three years ago what was between them seemed to change. Their feelings became something saturated in an understanding of loss. Usopp knew what Kaya needed because it was something he himself had never truly received. 

So, did it bother you that she actually hadn’t greeted you yet? Not really. What did bother you, however, was the way Klahadore’s eyes slithered over to you. It made you feel like you were going to be sick.

“Usopp. Did you bring the doctor with you?”

Please, let me crawl into a hole and die. 

There was something off about Klahadore. It wasn’t just because he made your skin want to completely crawl off your body. It was the way he sounded every alarm bell in your brain. The way your heart speeds up triggering the fight or flight response that was ingrained in your body's defense system. The way he continued to look at you as if you were a bug that needed to be squashed, only drove the feeling home. 

“Oh, yeah. Kaya, I had Doc make you something for your cough. I figured it might be worth a try.” 

God, he looked so happy. He was completely oblivious to how Klahadore seemed ready to smite you both where you stood. 

You closed your eyes, taking in a deep breath. Maybe when you opened them he wouldn’t be staring daggers into your face. 

Nope. No such luck. 

“Oh, that is so incredibly sweet,” Kaya beamed. 

Klahadore slowly set his hand out in front of him. The cold obsidian of his eyes never left your face as he spoke. “Please hand over whatever tonic you’ve acquired for Miss Kaya.”

You weren’t aware your hand was already in the satchel. Your fingers wrapped protectively tight against the cool glass of the bottle as you continued to stare at one another. 

“Hand it over. Please.”

“No-“

Usopp’s hand on your shoulder stopped you cold. Your teeth ground tightly to stop your next words. You didn’t want to hand that asshole anything. Not when Kaya looked so damn pale. 

Something is wrong. 

The thought wormed its way into your brain until it gnawed at all other thoughts until it consumed every available spot. It was all you could think as your eyes continued to look over her frail frame. 

Naan taught you that as a doctor, and as a healer, it was your job to fight for your patients. To always do what you could and what was best for their care. Was giving the medicine you made for Kaya to Klahadore best for her care. 

No. No, it sure as shit didn’t feel like it. 

Maybe that was why it felt like such a betrayal to take the medicine from your bag and drop it inside his gloved hand. You watched as his disgusting white fingers wrapped around the gray bottle and brought it up to rest closely to his chest. 

“Now, Usopp we’ve had this discussion about coming here unannounced - and this time with a doctor.”

“Nonsense, Klahadore,” Kaya interjected. “They are my friends. What a sweet gesture it was, Doc to try and make me something. Usopp, did you come to tell me more stories about your adventures?”

“I can do you one better. I brought some of my crew.”

With a sweep of his arm, Usopp introduced Luffy, Nami, and Zoro who registered this gesture with sheer disbelief. Well, disbelief would be putting it mildly. 

“Is he talking about us?” 

Luffy sounded as confused as you felt. 

“I’m sorry, but we do not have any room for any extra guests tonight, I’m afraid.” 

“Oh please, Klahadore couldn’t they at least stay for dinner? It is my birthday.”

You hated how Kaya had to beg to have company that wasn’t her staff. You could vaguely remember the butler who was in charge before Klahadore had arrived. Mr. Thorburr had been an absolute delight and genuinely seemed to care about Kaya and her family’s wellbeing. If he was still in charge, you were positive he would’ve believed in letting Kaya outside to enjoy the garden or have friends stop by, even unannounced, to visit. 

One day he was just gone and slowly the only staff that was left were these three assholes. It all felt awfully convenient or maybe you were just being petty because you disliked them.

The way Klahadore looked at her made your stomach turn. 

“Anything for you, Miss Kaya.”

You wondered if he choked a little over each word as they traveled up his throat.

“Great!” Luffy shouted. “When do we eat?”

“You don’t. Not dressed like that. You will change and bathe before dinner. No exceptions.”

Everyone was willing to accept the invitation. The premise of a bath seemed enough to make Nami practically skip forward to be led inside by Sham. Your feet, however, refused to move. Usopp, Luffy, and Nami practically took the small stairs up to the patio in one giant leap. Your earlier dread from the day was back and something dark borrowed its way into your chest. 

Something is wrong. 

You were about to turn tail and run when you noticed Zoro stop at the edge of the stairs. His body turned slightly to eye Klahadore one last time before he turned to follow after his crew. It was small and barely lasted a second, but it was enough. 

Zoro noticed something wasn’t right either and maybe, just maybe, he’d be the one to believe you. All you had to do was join him inside the house to talk to him. No biggie. 

Taking in a deep breath you finally moved to follow behind Kaya and Klahadore. Your eyes intently following a particular green-haired swordsman and wondering how you were going to get him alone. 

The showers seemed like a great place to start.

_______________________

As always, thank you for reading. Reblogs and comments are always welcome.

[m-musings]

Headcanons: Hugging One Piece Men

A/N: i LOVE me some hugs, so you know i just gotta write about it for my current hyperfixation. (hcs below the cut!)

Word Count:660 Warnings: a dangerous amount of fluff like its so sugary sweet it hurts

Luffy:

If you ever find yourself with the urge to hug the Captain of the Straw Hats, just beware.

Because the moment you wrap your arms around him, he will flash that signature smile of his and stretch his arms around your body as many times as possible to give you an even bigger hug.

Luffy will then spin you around (making you slightly dizzy) before setting you down with a kiss to your cheek.

After regaining your balance, he would wrap an arm around your shoulder as he takes you toward the kitchen to go bother Sanji about making him and you a meal to share with each other. :)

Zoro:

Hugging Zoro is rare to say the least.

Like if you try while he's already taking a nap or sitting with the rest of the crew, the most you'll get is a small pat on the arm.

But if the two of you are alone after a long day and you just happen to wrap yourself around his midsection, he'll give you a small smirk before turning round to hold you as close as possible.

He will also pick you up but only to bring you to his hammock so you two can cuddle and nap together!

Sanji:

Already being pretty physically affectionate, Sanji adores your hugs!

If he's chopping veggies in the galley, he will hold you in his arms under the guise of teaching you proper knife usage.

He will also just grab you by the hand to hold you while you both sway around to the sound of the waves gently crashing against the boat.

Mans is down bad for you and is not afraid to show you with an embrace or two.

Usopp:

Usopp is just as- if not more so- lovey and affectionate as Sanji.

If there's ever a moment where his hands are free, you can bet your ass that he's got his arms draped around you with his head resting in the crook of your neck.

Will pull you into his lap while he's working on new gadgets, using needing an extra set of hands as an excuse to keep you for himself for a while.

Usopp just loves to be near you, so your hugs are exactly the thing he needs to get through a day.

Shanks:

oh our beloved Red Haired Shanks here is the KING of hugs! Even with one arm, he is simply the best.

Any chance he gets, he's running over to scoop you up and litter kisses all over your face.

Yes, the others in the crew will give you shit if you act all cutesy around them but he can't find the time to be bothered when you're right there in his embrace.

He would gladly give up all his treasure if it meant he could always feel your arms held around him.

Buggy:

Buggy is a very good candidate for a hugging partner and not surprisingly, his chop chop abilities even add to the experience!

Aside from just being able to give you a good squeeze, he is just sooooooo warm! Even without his jacket, he's like a human furnace.

This makes for optimal cuddling conditions during a cold night at sea after an arduous day of performing in the big top.

Don't let his exuberant public personality fool you, Buggy is a giant teddy bear when he's alone with you.

Mihawk:

Ever the stoic one, Mihawk would never outwardly show how he feels about you holding onto him.

But on the inside, he is so happy when you decide that you want to cling to him. It makes him feel the overwhelming need to protect you, even if you are capable of doing so yourself.

Having you close like this just makes his job easier, especially with the added bonus of you nuzzling into his side.

And if you're lucky enough, you'll have the pleasure of catching Dracule's eyes gazing fondly at you as you give him a sweet smile.

[heartfeltcierra]

Reacting to you making/giving them a friendship bracelet Pt. 2 (Zoro, Luffy, Sanji, Bartolomeo, Sabo and Law

AN- I hope you enjoy part two of OP character receiving a friendship bracelet! (You can find part one that included Roger, Ace, Shanks, Marco and Doffy here)

MasterList

Characters- Zoro, Luffy, Sanji, Bartolomeo, Sabo and Law

Warnings/Contents-Fluff, All SFW, Mentions of fights, Law's is a little angsty and a bit longer.

I'll be posting a marine version tomorrow night including Koby, Garp, Smoker and Issho

ʕ•ᴥ•ʔﾉ♡ More under the cut

Zoro

 🍶 Zoro was confused at first but smirked seeing what it said “Best swordsman huh?”  “You need to make one for curly brows that says “Dumbest cook.”

🍶  Immediately took that back saying he wants to be the only one you make bracelets for 

🍶 He noticed there was some spare room on the bracelet, so he came up with a idea to fill the blank spots

 “You were pretty tough.” Zoro said, putting his swords back into their sheath. “I’ll get my girl to add you to my bracelet.” 

 “Excuse me?” Despite being half dead, the  bloody man lifted off of the ground with a rather angry expression. “What the hell does that mean?” 

 “You see this?” Zoro bends down, showing the man the many beads decorating the bracelet. “They represent my victories, and since I won against you, she’ll add a bead to it.” The man could only give Zoro a baffled look knowing he was now nothing more than a mere bracelet charm. “Anyways, nice fight and all but I gotta go. Which way is the exit?”

 “To the left.”    

 “Thanks.”

 “You fool, that's the right!”

 (To bad the bracelet doesn’t have a GPS)

 Luffy

🍗 Rubber boy was very excited when you gave it to him

🍗Would walk up to strangers to show them saying “Y/N made me this, I bet you're jealous!” 

🍗The only person that was genuinely jealous was Sanji 

🍗 Tries to take good care of it, note TRIES

 

  “Y/n…..” You look and see Luffy peeking his head into your room with an unusual gloomy look on his face. 

  “What’s wrong Luffy?” He padded over to you and laid the bracelet, or more like parts of the bracelet in front of you. 

 “It broke earlier during the fight. ” You knew from his tone he felt bad. “I’m sorry.” 

 “It’s okay!” You rummaged through the remains and smiled realizing the damage wasn’t irreversible. “I can fix it.” The frown on your captain’s face was finally replaced by that wide smile you know and love. “I’ll even make it more durable so it’s harder to break!”

  “You’re the best.” Luffy nearly sent you to the floor as he snaked his limbs around your body. “Also can you make one for my other wrist?”

“Sure what do you want it to say?”

 “Meat.”

  (I mean it’s Luffy, what did you expect?)

Sanji

 💛-You might as well have proposed to the man

 💛- Picks you up immediately and starts spinning saying “We might as well plan our wedding~”

 💛- A little bummed to hear you weren’t proposing, but is still eccentric that you made him something 

 “What kind of fighter doesn’t use his hands?” The beaten looks up at Sanji

 “Listen pal, my hands are only meant for two things. For Cooking…” His serious face scrunches up to his signature lovestruck idiot. “And for wearing bracelets made by my dear Y/N-Swan~” 

 (Please make this man more bracelets)

 Bartolomeo

💚 -His soul ascends into the clouds seeing that you made him something (Bonus points if your a straw hat pirate)

💚-Would fall to the ground and cry for a good half hour claiming he was “unworthy.” 

💚- But despite loving the bracelet, he NEVER wears it

 “Look at what was bestowed upon me.” He proudly holds up a small display case. “A friendship bracelet handcrafted by none other than Miss Y/N.” 

 The entire Strawhat lovers congregation would ooh and awe at the encased bracelet.

 “I could sit all day and bask in the sheer awesomeness.” Bart hits the floor with tears running down his face. “I just…I love her so much.”

 “Oh no boss man’s going down!”

  “What do we do?!” 

 “I don’t know, but we better figure something out. Were losing him!”

 Luckily after a cold towel and some fanning, the Barto Club was able to revive their green haired leader.

  (Please do not make this man any more bracelets , unless you want to send him into a coma.)

 Sabo

🎩- You had no idea what you were really getting yourself into

🎩-You know how people flex their engagement rings? Yeah Sabo’s going to do that… a lot

🎩-“Oh this thing? Well my beautiful Y/N hand crafted it for m-“ Would go on and on when literally no one asked 💀💀💀

 

“Y/N come quick it’s Sabo!” You follow Hack in a full blown panic as he leads you down to the RA’s infirmary.

 “Sabo!” You see him lying in one of the beds breathing heavily with a towel on his forehead. “What happened?”

 “Y/N….” You rush to his side and he takes your hand in his. “I’m sorry. But…” Tears roll down his face. “I promise I did everything in my power to save it….”

“To save what Sabo?”

 “My…..my…..MY BRACELET.”

 ….

 ….

 “I’m leaving.” 

 “Why?” 🥺

 “Sabo you literally went into shock, scared everyone half to death and ended up hospitalized , over a bracelet.”

 “But it’s not just any bracelet.” He frowns. “You made it for me.”

 “And I’ll make you another one.” You playfully roll your eyes. “So tell me what exactly happened to it?”

 “To be honest, I burned it off accidentally.” He nervously scratches the side of his head. “I’m still not quite used to my new powers.” 

  “I see.” You nod.  “I’ll see if I can somehow make one that’s fireproof.”

 “You will?” The blonde smiles and wraps his arms around you, pulling you down with him on the bed. “I love you so much!”

“I love you too.” You let yourself relax into his hold. “With that being said, can you promise me that you'll never do this again?”

 “You have my word not only as the chief of staff, but also as your overly dramatic boyfriend….. that I may do this again.”

 (Sabo is a absolute drama queen and you cannot tell me otherwise)

 Law

 🫀- And the crowd goes mild

 🫀- Literally had no initial reaction

 🫀- Law would stare at it, then back at you, then back to the bracelet, then back to you

 🫀- Poor man is not good at showing his emotions, so bear with him

 “Why?” Law gives you a confused look while staring at your labor of love. 

 “Because I wanted to.” You shrug your shoulders,  a little hurt seeing the lack of reaction.

 “I see.” Law doesn’t put the bracelet on, instead he puts it in his pocket. “Thank you.” He immediately turns his attention away from you and goes back to working.

 “Sure” You turn away with a frown. “I’ll go now, see you later.” 

 The second you leave the room Law is pulling that bracelet back out of his pocket while sporting the deepest shade of red on his cheeks. 

 He was so caught off guard and over the moon because of how cute and excited you looked while giving it to him that he completely went brain dead. 

 But he was now back to his senses and remembered the frown on your face as you left the room. 

 ~~~~

 You were laying on your bed sulking when you heard a knock on your door followed by a “It’s me.” You recognize your boyfriend's voice, but you're still hurt from earlier so you don’t reply. Instead you bury your face deeper into the pillow

 “SHAMBLES.” 

 “I didn’t say you could come in…” You spoke into the “pillow” which is now none other than Law.

 “You also didn’t say I couldn’t.” His tattooed arms pull you closer into his chest. 

 “Guess not.” Despite being angry at him, you can’t help but enjoy the closeness. “Is there something that you need, captain?”

 “Yes there is actually.” Law says in a matter of fact tone  “I have a very important task to assign you to.” You look up at him completely confused. “I need you to make me a bracelet with our jolly Roger on it.”

 “You want another bracelet?” You pull back from his hold. “I didn’t think you liked the first one I gave you.” 

 “I didn't like it, I loved it... see.”  You smile seeing the bracelet was in its rightful place on his wrist. “So do you think you can do it?”

 “Of course I can.” You jump up from the bed and run over to your desk that was covered in different colors of twine. “I’ll work on it right now!”

 Law feels relieved seeing the smile he fell in love with back on your face. Mission accomplished. He was about to leave the room to let you work, but couldn’t help but notice a huge pile of bracelets sitting in a basket on your dresser.

 “Damn Y/N you really like making these don’t you?” Law said while rummaging through the bracelets.

 “Law, wait!” It was too late, he was already holding the cheesy couples bracelets you made out of self indulgence. “I umm. I just made these for fun..”

 “Oh really?”  Law smirks while spinning the bracelet around his finger. “If you don’t mind, I think I’ll take this one with me.” 

 “Are you sure?” 

 “I’m sure.” Law nods before throwing the other bracelet into your lap. “And you should wear yours too.”

 Law leaves you an embarrassed mess, but at the same time,  despite his “cool guy” act, he was just as embarrassed if not more. Why does she have to be so cute??? 

 (Won’t say it out loud, but is loving the fact he now owns a bracelet that say “I ❤️ Y/N”)

[herzgeist-writes]

One Piece Headcanons - As If It Was Yesterday

Characters: Zoro, Law (pre-relationship) | Trope: Their little 'first' moments special to them | Content: For fem!readers - Wholesome and a tiny bit angsty in the end- enveloping you in bunny plushies

A/N: A 'little' headcanon for my favorite swordsmen, which 'first' moments they shared with you and cherish the most

Dividers by cafekitsune ~

Inspired by @themushroomofdeath - I really hope you like it

1st time you sparred together Your powerful blows, ferocious attacks and eager upkeeping grabbed the swordsman's attention. It's rare he lets a woman fight him, countering your advances with everything he's got. Usually, Zoro's one to lay low on fighting a woman - but you? He hasn't had this much fun in quite some time.

Swords clash against your weapon, sparks of friction restricting your vision as you notice the devious grin of your sparring partner, Zoro.

"Not bad. I feel like fighting a feral kitten."

"Oh shut it!"

Dodging and parrying every last counter of the pirate hunter, you can hear an amused huff, panting at you in nearing exhaust.

"Hold still already!"

"Only to be Lion song'd by you? Are you kidding me?"

Too fast you spin around, trying to face him while you reply, losing your balance in the process. Very smooth (Y/n). However it was a close call - Zoro caught you just in time, sneering at you in victor.

"Didn't need a fancy attack to sweep you off your feet eh?"

He most certainly did not. Zoro's face is close, too close - you feel his hot breath fanning against your skin. Clearing his throat in the faintest of abashment, he straightens you again and compliments you. Yes, compliments you.

When it's due, the swordsman isn't one to withhold you from earnest opinion, thus he grumbles:

"You did good. Just work on your focus and you'll be rocking the battlefield in no time."

"Thank you, but-"

The onyx of Zoro's eye sparks up, glaring you down in sheer annoyance.

"Just take it."

Seeing the tinge of dusted pink on the tip of his ears, it indicates you to simply accept his final resort. He sure is flustered . . for a reason you cannot explain, one he will remember all too well.

1st time you took a nap together How dare you take in his favorite spot? He loves snoozing on that exact spot, and you sat there, all curled up like a cat and snoring like a woodcutter. Might be an overstatement, at least the woodcutter part, however he cannot help but find it inviting to scoot over next to you and let your head fall down onto his shoulder.

Growling in irk, Zoro scratches the back of his neck - lost in what to do with you. Little you, who lies on his favorite spot to nap on.

"Ugh, what now . ."

Easier said than done, he decided to take a seat beside you. A bit stiff and insecure on his feet, he lowers down and shuffles closer, your legs touching slightly. By the warm sensation you rustle up in your sleep, yet only for a split second - practically jumpscaring the man.

Luckily, Zoro was able to keep his grunt of surprise at a lower volume and his gaze shoots to your mellow, sleepy face. Your head rests on his shoulder, breathing in steady pace. Adorable, is what comes up in the pirate hunter's mind - observing you closely and a smile hushes over his lips.

"Annoying little thing."

As annoying as he likes to describe you, he swiftly adds, giving a kiss to the crown of your head:

"Sweet annoying little thing."

And all that he muttered, whispering to himself in disbelief how warm and soft he feels in your presence. Truly calm and at ease. Something only you can provide him.

1st time you gave him a nickname What did you just call him? Wait. It actually sounded nice, coming from you. (Not like that shitty cook) The way you cood, almost singing it to him all sweet and with a hint of tease. Zoro knew you weren't a person to test him by calling him names - you simply showed your rosy, loveable side. Oh and he knew - and how he did, to this day.

"Hey tiger, got a minute?"

"Erm, are you talking to me?"

"Do you see anybody else around?"

Confusion is beyond what plasters over Zoro's face. He is utterly dumbfouned - uncertain on how to react to that highly unusual 'nickname' you just shot at him. Tiger?

"Say it again."

"What, tiger?"

"Again."

"Uh . . tiger."

It grows on him, not to mention bears a flattering effect on the stoic swordsman, thinking he's as strong as that striped beast. He does like the sound of that, especially how your voice melodically hums it to him.

"One more time."

"Zoro, come on don't play that card on me I-"

"That's not my name anymore."

A wide grin flashes at you and he approaches you slowly, making you a tad bit rattled. You feel how the heat in your cheeks saturates your skin softly, earning a vexed sigh out of you. However, the booming call of a certain cook lets the so called 'tiger' gnash his teeth in gremlin like manner.

"Oi Marimo! Get your ass over here!"

"Can't you see I'm busy, curly brow?!"

He isn't done with you, oh no. After losing the cussing battle against Sanji, Zoro swears to come back and make you say it. Again.

"Don't move a muscle. You and I have to settle something, sweet thing."

Oh dear . .

1st time he saw you There you were, your wanted poster. It was the high bounty that caught Law's attention first, then remembering the rumours of your foolish doings and last but not least - analysing your appearance. The surgeon isn't prone to be attracted to the outside of a person, still you withheld a certain esteem that he finds vaguely intriguing, even upon your first meeting. This is a feeling he dearly holds in his memory, to say the least.

"Well, nice to meet you. I'm (Y/n)."

"Trafalgar Law."

His hand is cold, calloused, rough around the edges. The firm grip tells you he isn't likely accustomed to this sort of introduction - a calm one, where individuals can actually look into eachother's eyes and not throw curses of rivalry against one another's heads for once.

Though that you are rivals, you thought it to be a more decent, mature way of greeting a fellow pirate. Strange? Yes, but it's extraordinarily welcoming for the Surgeon of Death, knowing there are in fact less numbskulls around than expected.

Grey irises basically scan you, closely following the outline of your feminine frame. You're smaller than he ought you to be. Staring down at you, he notices an intesity within your eyes - one that captivates and lures him to think you are smarter than you give yourself credit for.

Modesty is something he dare say deems attractive - he remembers the moment he realized what kind of woman you are.

"Let me make this clear, don't cross me. I don't take kindly to idiots hindering me, understood?"

"Oh I would never."

It's the mischevious tone in your voice, mixed with a coy sneer that opts him to click his tongue and roll his eyes. She's a rival alright, a supernova at that. She's dangerous - more than in one aspect.

1st time he fought beside you Law was astounded by your endurance and bravery throughout the first battle beside you, not to mention your cunning - knowing where and when to engage and find possibilites to support your partners. Yet also, it wasn't a surprise that you are too naïve, too impulsive and impatient for the next move. Speaking of, Law found himself staring whenever you strike with all your power - it left him rather entranced seeing your gracious demeanor, unadmittedly for certain.

"Watch where you're going idiot! Wait for the right moment!"

"I'm not yours to command, Trafalgar!"

Of course you run off by yourself. Law is used to that kind of behaviour, to his misfortune. Sprinting after you, he watches in horror as a giant's hand is about to grind you into dust and pounds the earth with an ear deafening rumble.

"(Y/n)-ya!"

Out of impulse he cuts the enormous fist in two, only to find . . nothing beneath. It was then where a sudden booming groan takes Law aback, coming to notice the giant loses his conciousness and slams to the ground face foward.

"What the?"

"Were you looking for me?"

Tapping his shoulder, you stand next to the panting doctor, who subsequently snaps at you for scaring him like that. How dare you!

"Y-No! Absolutely not! I knew you were alright, his hand was just . . conveniently in my way to be torn to shreds."

"Ah, I see. And it wasn't my name you called out to I assume."

"I didn't call for anybody, you're simply imagining things, (Y/n)-ya."

An arrow aims straight for your head, which you dodged in a swift move, almost effortlessly. More and more arrows follow, a rain of wooden projectiles threatening to pierce every inch of your skin, yet you scoff at the Heart pirate and beckon him nonchalantly.

"Come on, Law-ya! This isn't over yet! Let's find the others!"

With his mouth wide agape in appall he glares daggers into your back, grinding his jaw in rage as he yells close behind you:

"Mock and boss me one more time and I swear I'll hold your heart hostage."

"How romantic."

It's how you chuckle while hurdling the battlefield like a cat, parrying and countering attacks along the way, leaves Law tongue tied. He growls - deftly supressing the wave of emotion he hates the most. Fluster.

1st time you hugged/kissed him Never has he thought of getting this close to you, or you to him. And to his absolute demise, he never imagined to 'long' for more, after you wrapped your tiny self around his neck to console him. Nevertheless, the kiss was nothing but malice, taking him off guard - oh how he wanted you to do it again. He reminisces in that past moment almost daily.

"What was that just now, Heartstealer?"

"It was nothing! Can you just not? I'll treat this laceration with a quick precautionary stitch and cauterize. Just- have my back will you?"

You notice distress in his quaking frame, shaking and riled up as if seen a ghost. His hand takes care of the deep wound on his forearm, which he only recently caught, not accepting a unanticipated infection. There's too much blood loss and Law feels his concentration fading.

Without further ado, you support the man who gnarls at you immediately. Not keen on your kindness.

"Don't touch me!"

"You need my help right now, dumbass! Hold still and tell me how to stitch and cauterize!"

He obeys - for now. Unwilingly he instructs you how to lead the needle and burn the tissue in order to close his wound. The process is quick but rather painful, seeing how Law grits his teeth and hisses by the contact of the searing heat.

"You're distraught."

With your voice low, you attempt to find the reason for his unease.

"It was the burning chapel wasn't it?"

No words are needed to see the overwhelm in Law's expression. Never have you thought to witness this man in genuine worry, almost fear. He mutters, swallowing the clump of sorrow to maintain his pride.

"They didn't deserve to pass like this. They haven't done anything wrong . . I was too slow. Too weak. I couldn't -"

"Hey, hey . ."

After you wrapped up his lower arm with bandages, you enclose the distance between you and Law - slinging your arms around his neck to sufficate the dark thoughts fogging up his mind.

"Sshh, don't dig into a scar that's still healing. Calm down."

Your warmth singes his heart, earning a surprised 'Mhm' out of him as he earnestly enjoys being hugged by you.

"Oi, what are you-"

It's forgein, still unpleasant somehow, nevertheless he cannot bring himself to turn you down. Slowly, his functioning arm glides over your back, subtly pulling you closer, movements hestitant out of uncertainty.

Drawing back, you look deeply into his eyes, smiling bright enough to reassure he isn't alone. Not anymore.

"Now isn't the time to talk. If you ever wish to get rid of the weights on your shoulders-"

A tad bit awkward - your face inches closer to his, your hot breath fanning against Law's cheeks - making him . . feel. Thus you continue with the sweetest of consoling hums:

"- know you can put your trust in me. Your sense of security is important to me and I will never force anything out of you. Just pay mind to your mental stability. Alright? We need you as the Surgeon of Death in battle right now . ."

Unexpected, lips, soft and sweet as honey, peck the round of his face, dangerously close to the corner of his mouth. Law is left speechless, unsure how to respond, dumbfounded by your gentle gesture he cannot fathom if he ever received.

Besides Corazon's affection he earned, this is fairly different. He sighs as he sees you walking out the room to check the battle's situation outside.

Fingertips drift along the spot you placed your velvet skin upon. Why does he want you to do it again?

"Tch, this woman . ."

No, this is bad. He needs to forget this ever occured, but he couldn't, he never did.

[bluegalaxygirl]

Celestial Wedding (ZoLu X Reader) P5

Plot: Reader gets taken as revenge for Luffy and Zoro's defiance against the Celestial Dragons, they were just going to kill her to make an example but now theres a wedding????.

Warning: Bad language, Violence, blood, kidnapping, forced marriage and salivary.

Thank you to @herwritingartcowboy for the suggestion. Reader is Female and a gunslinger, Zoro X Luffy X Reader, Poly relationship, established relationship.

P1 - P2 - P3 - P4 - P6 - P7 - P8 - P9 - P10 - P11 - P12 - P13 - P14 - P15 - P16 - P17 - P18

Last night was the worst sleep you've ever had, chained up in Charlos's room sitting on the floor with only the warmth and comfort of Sakura next to you, you couldn't sleep with being too on edge. Sakura laid her head on your lap while you stroked her hair watching her sleep the best she could until Charlos woke up, sitting up the dragon takes his blue eye mask off and looks around the room his eyes landing on you but you don't meet his gaze. The man sighs and gets out of bed the sound of the covers moving waking up all the girls in the room including Sakura who shoots up to sit straight as the dragon walks over stopping in front of you. Keeping your eyes fixed on the floor his slippered feet stop right under your face as his hand grabs your face forcing you to look at him, his smile is wide and his nose is still running as he scans you over "I can't wait for you to be mine.... such a pretty face" His thumb runs over your cheek as you clench your teeth trying not to show any kind of emotion, he bends down getting closer to your face making you want to recoil but you force yourself not too. "Just imagine the things i'm gonna do that pretty skin of yours, its annoying though, my sister got to have fun with you before i could" The man sighs squeezing your face a little, he seems to think for a moment before smiling pulling you to your feet by your face.

You offer up no resistance when standing despite the pain in your thigh but you dread to think of what he has in mind. You heard from his other wives last night that there used to be 13 of them but Charlos killed the other 5 for different reasons and one for no reason at all. You gulp as his other hand runs up and down your arm that sticks to your side until he grabs it pulling you closer to his half clothed body "Once you've all had your injections we'll get a bath together" his smile is big as he talks but his hands grip your arm tighter when you don't answer him "Would you like that?" Charlos asks wanting you to say yes for him but when you don't he growls grabbing your neck and slamming you into the wall. You gasp for air as pain shoots through your back and his hand tightens around your neck "When i ask you a question you answer. are you stupid? You talked before so you have a voice.... unless you want me to take that away form you" Charlos smiles getting closer to your face "N-No" you whisper still trying to get air into your lunges, feeling satisfied the dragon losses his grip on your neck letting you pant for air as your head spins. "I'll ask you again since it's a special day for us... do you want to take bath with me?" you knew you had no choice but to say yes even though the thought of being in a bath with this man made your skin crawl so you nod your head "Yes" you whisper making him smile more and lean closer placing a kiss on your cheek which you try and pull away form but his hand squeezes your neck and his hand lets go of your arm to press against your bandaged thigh.

Gasping in pain your body stiffens "Don't pull away" Charlos states with a blank stare before pressing his lips against your cheek again. He lingers there for a moment feeling your skin until a light knocking comes from the door, Charlos takes a step back but keeps his hand around your neck as he looks at the door "Enter" The door opens on his command two guards and a doctor walking in with a try full of needles "Perfect timing, get a bath ready for us all" Charlos lets go of your neck and walks over to the doctor who bows, panting slightly and placing a hand over your bandaged leg you glare at the floor. "It's an honer as always sir" The doctor walks over to one of the wives preparing the needle while one of the guards nods at his orders heading off to get someone to prepare a bath. Sakura strokes your leg getting your attention and motioning you to sit down, you do so trying to clam your raising heart rate "What are those?" You whisper watching as Charlos leaves the room with the other guard before turning to look at the doctor who goes around the room injecting the other girls "tranquilizers" Sakura whispers back once she thinks its safe to talk, she goes to say more but when the doctor comes round to the two of you she keeps quiet. The doctor injects you in the shoulder with a small smile making you want to punch him in the face but you hold it back knowing you need to save your strength and energy for when your crew comes to get you.

Luffy and Zoro didn't get much sleep last night too worried about getting to you on time and thinking about how their going to make those dragons pay for what they've done. Everyone had breakfast earlier than normal since the wedding was taking place at 8, and they needed to get there before then. Luffy scoffed his food wanting to get his strength up for the battle ahead but the others didn't complain since they were also getting ready for the big fight. Robin made a plan with the help of Usopp and Nami but the three knew it would go out the window with Luffy and Zoro itching for a fight, it was good to have an idea of what to do though for everyone else. "The only way up are those elevators, so we have to make sure their working" Usopp glares at Luffy trying to get his captain not to destroy them, The captain pulls the meat off its bone and eats it before noticing his long nosed friend glaring at him "What?" Luffy tilts his head to the side in confusion making Usopp sigh and lay his head on the table "i've told you this over and over again Luffy" The sniper could cry at that moment but Nami paces a hand on his back with a sigh "Just give up, you know even if he listens he won't remember or care" Luffy shrugs at her words before looking to his other side seeing Zoro laying on the sofa staring out the window.

Once everyone was finished they headed off to do their jobs while Sanji washed the dishes. Luffy wipes his mouth and stands up walking over to the sofa and flopping down onto the swordsman's lap who jumps a little being snapped out of hos thoughts. The captain smiles up at him as he lays in between Zoro's legs resting his arms on the swordsman's chest "Do you think she'll look pretty?" Luffy asks making Zoro look at him with a mixture of annoyance and worry "The hell Luffy? She's with Celestial dragons and thats what your thinking about?" The swordsman growls trying not to get mad at him but is finding it hard, Luffy sighs and rests his head in Zoro's chest "Its better than thinking about all the bad things they might be doing to her." The captain didn't want to make his lover upset or mad with him, but he just couldn't bring himself to think the way Zoro's thinking, with a sigh the swordsman places a hand on Luffy's back looking out the window into the open sea. He understands what Luffy is trying to do but can't take his mind off how their going to find you, yes you might be in a pretty dress but will you be the same after all this? Will you be their Y/N? "If you keep thinking about it your just gonna get mad again" Luffy looks up seeing the swordsman's stoic face that turns to look down at his captain "It'll probably be over the top, some frilly shit"

Luffy tilts his head while raising an eyebrow wondering what Zoro is on about until it hits him "Oh the dress?" The captain laughs sitting to straddle the swordsman's waist feeling happy that he managed to get his lovers mind off the bad stuff even for just a little while, Zoro lets out a chuckle and cracks a small smile placing his hands on Luffy's waist "yea. She looks hot in anything as long as she likes it" The swordsman state as Luffy nods leaning in to place a small kiss on Zoro's lips who leans up to kiss back. "I like it when she wears those split dresses" The captain smile after he pulls away from the kiss feeling Zoro's hands rub up and down his sides "you mean the ones that show off her tattoo?" The swordsman laughs remembering how overjoyed the captain was when you got that tattoo, he stared at it for hours but was super sad when you told him not to touch it since it was still healing. Luffy nods his head holding his hat to his head "Yea its so cool, maybe i should get one" A laugh from the kitchen gets the two to look over seeing Sanji drying his hands "Sorry" The cook raises his hand as he put the towel down "I don't think the needle will piece your skin" Sanji smiles leaning against the counter lighting up a cigarette, Luffy pouts pulling the skin on his arm watching it stretch and then snap back into place once he lets go.

Zoro sighs and sits up but keeps Luffy on his lap "Don't pout" The swordsman leans in wrapping his arms around the captain and placing a light kiss on his lips, luffy kisses back a small smile growing on his face before pulling away. The door to the kitchen slams open a very panicked Brook running in and panting a little, the three turn to look at him as the skeleton points out to sea "We have a problem, there's two Vice Admiral ships heading our way" Luffy jumps a little wondering if his grandpa will be there but soon shakes it off while stepping off the sofa soon followed by Zoro "It doesn't matter, we can take care of them" The captain smiles seeming to make Brook calm down a bit as they make their way out of the kitchen seeing the rest of the straw hat crew rushing around to take on the two ships. They weren't close enough to the red line yet so it was clear these ships where sent out to stop anyone form getting too close. "Luffy" Nami calls out from the front of the ship where she's steering the ship waiting for the captains orders. Luffy nods at her before jumping up onto the top deck to stand next to her "Keep going, Franky prepare the cannons." The captain yells at the crew who nods at his orders. A loud voice through a speaker soon catches their attention, the person clearing their throat before they talk "Attention ship... You must turn around immediately, or we will open fire" It was clear now that the voice was coming form one of the ships so Luffy hops up onto the sunny's head to look out.

Zoro cracks his neck as he makes his way up to the top of the ship followed by Sanji, if the marines did fire it's their job to protect the ship. "Get out of our way" Luffy yells back as loud as he can so the other two ships can hear him, a sigh echos out the marine clearly angry at the pirates words. The two ships slightly turn outward before firing their cannons some missing and landing in the water next to the sunny while others are cut apart or kicked away by Zoro and Sanji who jump into action. Luffy helps deflect the cannon fire until Franky yells out that the main cannon is ready, jumping of the sunny's head the captain gives the cyborg a thumbs up. The sunny's mouth opens as a red coated cannon moves out and fires a bright blue been of light shooting out its mouth almost splitting the sea in front of it in half, the two marine ships try to move out of the way but the light hits one directly while the other gets most of its back end blown apart. The bright beam soon shrinks into nothing the sea water rippling back into place as the now one marine ship starts to sink. Luffy goes to cheer when someone lands on the ship and kicks the captain into the railing almost crashing into Nami who has to duck in order to avoid the straw hat "Luffy" Zoro and Sanji yell turning to see a marine vice Admiral looking almost like a dalmatian now standing on the ship, the swordsman runs over and slices at the marine, but he manages to dodge with incredible speed. Sanji runs over to Nami helping her off the floor and get away form the fight now taking place while Luffy growls getting up off the floor.

Something about this guy reminds him of marineford bringing back bad memories, running at the dog man Luffy swings his leg kicked the guy round and sending him flying onto the grassy deck away from the ship controls. "Get the ship moving" Luffy yells out not liking how slow the sunny is moving at the moment, they've already wasted time on the two marine ships they don't need anymore delays. Nami nods and runs back to the wheel while Luffy and Zoro run past her heading down to take the marine on. The dalmatian gets back up his eyes landing on Chopper whose eyes widen as he steps back scared of the dog mans angry gaze. Brook runs over slashing at the marine with his sword but with incredible speed dodges the slashes and stabs the skeleton throws at him as a large hand grows out of the floor and try's to slap the man. It barely misses as the marine jumps away form the hand and runs at Robin about to stab her with his finger and long nail only for Zoro's swords to get in the way blocking his attack and pushing the guy away. Using Haki Luffy hardens his arm and fist bringing it down to hit the guy in the face who hardly had time to dodge being thrown into the wall of the ship. With the dalmatian panting and trying to stand Luffy suddenly remembers where he's seen this guy before and why he remembers marineford, he tried to stop Luffy form saving Ace and now he was trying to stop Luffy from saving you. Brook goes to deliver the finishing blow when Luffy steps in holding his hand out to stop the skeleton.

With angry eyes and his hat darkening his face Luffy stops in front of the dog man who glares back up at him "Straw hat" The marine coughs a bit of blood splattering onto the floor as he does, raising his fist Luffy punches the marine in the face as hard as he can knocking the guy out and causing big red bumps to appear in his cheek and head. The crew relaxes a little now the fighting's over but Zoro could tell the captain wasn't happy, as the ship picked its speed up and the others went to help with what ever they could Zoro walked up who Luffy who was still staring down at the uncontuse marine. "He was there... at marineford" The captain sighs fixing his hat as the swordsman places a hand on his shoulder "it won't be like marineford... we're here now, your not alone" Zoro lightly smile at Luffy who prys his eyes away form the dog man to look at his first mate, a smile grows on his face realizing the swordsman's right, his crew is strong, and he easily beat a vice admiral he had trouble beating over two years ago so hopefully things will work out. Luffy wraps his arms around Zoro's waist before leaning up to place a kiss on his lips "Thank you Zo" The captain smiles as Zoro lets out a small chuckle while holding his lover back "Anything for my captain."

------- You Don't have to read this last bit if you don't want too. No nudity but a bit of inappropriate touching and mentions of torture -------

The bath was beyond embarrassing but luckily the giant tub was massive and had a large window behind it which is what you kept your focus on even though you felt light-headed from the drugs. You kept your arms over your chest, even though you were wearing a bikini you still felt exposed especially with the celestial dragon sitting next to you, his arm around your shoulder as he laughed about something. The other girls where with you in the bath also wearing bikini's but you could tell they where still very nervous scared to make the wrong move, the dragons fingers drew circles on your shoulder as he leaned closer to you his side touching yours. You wanted nothing more than to pull away form this creep but you forced yourself to stay as still as possible "Don't look so nervous, you'll have to get used to this" Charlos smiles at you noticing your clenched jaw and stiff body, you nodded since you know not answering will get you or one of the girls hurt, the man sighs though his hand leaving your shoulder to run through your hair "Sit" The dragon demands patting his lap form under the water, with slight hesitation you stand his hand letting go of your hair as you step closer, his smile fades as you stand there for too long and his eyes shift to Rin on his other side. You knew he would hurt her if you didn't sit so you quickly did trying to stop yourself from shaking as you sat across his lap. "Good girl, your a fast learner" Charlos runs his hand up your back as you keep your hands around your chest trying to focus on calming your breathing down, his hand squeezes your side as he pulls you closer, only stopping when your shoulder meets his chest.

Minutes felt like hours he ran his hand over side and thigh it rubbing against your bandaged leg making you flinch a few times when he deliberately pressed too hard on your injured leg, the need to move away form him become overwhelming your hands gripping the skin of your waist harder and harder. Charlos places his head on your shoulder with a light sigh "So soft... the things i'm gonna do to this skin of yours." He whispers placing a kiss on your shoulder, you whimper a little mainly grossed out by the feeling of his runny nose on your skin, he chuckles at your response to it placing kissing up your neck before licking it. Something snapped as adrenaline washed through your veins, the light-headiness gone giving you the energy you needed to shove him away from you as you stand backing away form him "Got off of me you disgusting creep" You yell catching the attention of the guards by the door who rush to step in, the girls in the bath move away knowing what is going to happen but Sakura goes to grab you only for the other girls to hold her back. "You insolent girl" Charlos yells standing form the bath as the two guards grab your arms about to pull you out of the bath when the dragon raises his hand form them to stop. "Leave" Charlos looks at his wives who nod all getting out of the bath and leaving the room, some giving you sad looks on the way out. "I can't kill you but i can make you want to die" Charlos smiles before nodding to the two guards behind you.

Your suddenly forced to your knees as your head is dunked under water, the guards hand on the back of your head keeping you under as you struggle to get out of the two guards grip, after a few seconds the guard grips your hair and pulls your head out of the water. Gasping for air you feel a kick hit your bandaged leg causing you to gasp in shock and pain, the water around your leg starting to turn red. Your head is dunked under the water again it muffling the yelling of Charlos unable to understand what he's saying until your head is pulled out of the water again. Panting and trying to catch your breath Charlos bends down grabbing your face as he starts hitting you, punches, kicks and slaps hit your body as you groan in pain trying to hold back your screams "Scream for me and maybe I'll let you go" Charlos gets in your now bleeding and bruised face yelling so you can hear him over your own pounding heart beat, digging his hand into your bandaged leg you let out a scream the pain unbearable but the dragon smiles watching you try and get away form his hand. After a minute he lets go and steps out of the bath leaving you crying and bleeding in the water. "Get her out of my sight" Charlos waves the two guards dragging you out of the bath and making you walk out of the bathroom, limping you let the two drag you into a room and throw you on the floor before throwing a towel on you and slamming the door behind them.

You flinch as arms wrap around you and try to get away only to hear a sweet and kind voice "it's ok, your ok" Sakura holds you close to her pulling the towel over your bleeding leg "Oh my gods... your alive" Lina gasps rushing over to press the towel down on your leg to try and stop the bleeding, gasping and crying you cling onto Sakura who sooth you while rocking you slightly. The other girls walk over using other towels to dry your skin and hair being careful of the purple bruises that start appearing on your body "I'm sorry" You whisper as Rin starts brushing your hair getting all the knots out "He's not here" Rin sighs thinking your trying to apologist to their master but you shake your head causing a confused look to appear on most of the girls faces "I'm not saying sorry to him. I'm saying sorry to you all" You state finding the strength to sit up and look over the girls "I'm sorry you had to worry... I'm sorry you had to see the things you've seen and been though and... I'm sorry for putting you all in danger" You wipe away your tears as Kashvi the youngest of the group starts crying and leaps into your arms crying into your shoulder "I promise when i leave... i'm taking you all with me" You look at each girl their eyes widening in surprise, they thought after being beaten you would cave and just submit but your determination and will sparks something in them, a spark of hope.

[laawlesss]

;; Camp Grand Line !! , pt. ii

>> link to pt i.

; words? ; 7.3k

; warnings? ; mild language

; genre? ; fluff, slow burn, eventual comfort/angst

; request? ; no.

; pairing ; portgas d. ace/reader || mild trafalgar d. law/reader , roronoa zoro/reader , eustass kid/reader

; notes ; pacing might be weird cause the plot is forming as i write. just making the first few days fun before the campers get there ! doing my best to write everyone in character, hope you like it !! read part i first or else this won’t make sense. crossposted on ao3.

    “That’s the name, sweetheart. Hope you didn’t miss me too much.” Ace winked, his deep voice teasing. He was already annoying you to no end, and you hated that he looked good too. His raven hair was shaggy, peeking out from under his faded orange cowboy hat. Deep brown eyes sparkled with mischief, and the freckles across his cheeks contorted as he grinned. His toned and tan arms were crossed over his chest as he leaned against the old door frame of the counselors cabin. 

    “On the contrary.” You gave him a deadpan glare, spinning back around and focusing on unpacking your things. Unzipping the first bag, you pulled out your things, setting them into the top drawer of the old wooden wardrobe next to your bunk. You did your absolute best to block him out of your mind, but it was becoming increasingly difficult as the man continued to open his mouth. 

    “Aww, you totally missed me.” You could practically hear the grin in his voice, his tone sing-songy. The man hummed from his position behind you, and you sighed. “A year without me, sounds dreadful.” He sighed dramatically, going unusually silent for a moment, before you suddenly felt firm arms wrap around your head, pulling you into a strong chest. “C’mon! I won’t let go until you admit it~” Ace laughed, a low and warm sound that reminded you of molasses. You struggled to get out of his grip, clawing at his arms and doing your best to shove him off. 

    “Get off me, dumbass!” You managed to wrangle yourself loose, immediately putting as much distance between you and him as you possibly could. He blocked your only exit, and the grin on his face showed that he knew it too. Something about his dumb cocky face annoyed you to no end, and you huffed. “You’re as annoying as ever, idiot arsonist.” You scowled, reminded of the years prior when the man would relentlessly tease and pick on you, just because you were a few years younger and a few inches shorter than him. You distinctly remember him leaving you stranded one year at the small island in the middle of the large lake, forcing you to stay there until nightfall when one of the counselors had finally come to save you. 

    Ace bent in a low bow, holding a hand to his chest. You’d known him since childhood, before he’d grown out of his ruthless phase of bullying you constantly, yet he never seemed to grow out of his love for the dramatics. “Great to be counseloring with you, roomie.” He lifted his head slightly, sending you an ecstatic wink from under the brim of his hat. 

    “I don’t even think that’s a word.” 

    “Sure it is.” His insufferable confident tone, so cheeky and so full of himself. You got the feeling that maybe he just liked to hear himself talk. 

    You wracked your brain, trying to think of some way to get out of the situation. Turning to the corner of the room, you were struck with an idea. No matter how idiotic Ace acted, he was truly kind at heart, and you knew he’d fall hook, line, and sinker for what you were about to do. 

    “Ace! There’s a rat!” You screeched, launching yourself up on one of the bunks as you pointed to the corner of the room farthest away from the door. There was no rat, and even if there was, you were the type to find them quite cute. When you’d spoken with Franky earlier, he’d told you that all of the cabin walls were secure, and that there wasn’t any chance of any vermin getting in. Ace, however, had no idea of that little fact, and his grin dropped when he’d heard your desperate voice. 

    “Where?!” He turned, and you held back a giggle at how serious he looked. You almost felt bad for tricking him. His brows had furrowed, and you watched as he tugged what looked like a hunting knife from his belt. When had he gotten that?! 

    “Right there! How do you not see it?” You cried, your hand pressing into your mouth as you watched him rush the corner, even dropping into a crouch to check under the bunks. Once you were satisfied with his distance away from the door, you leapt down and landed on the floor in a dead sprint, flinging the door open and running out of the cabin as fast as you possibly could. You heard Ace shout something from behind you, but you were too busy running to catch it. 

    Your breaths were heavy, and soon, you began to laugh at the exhilaration. You skidded on the fallen leaves of the mulch pathway from the Newgate cabins, narrowly avoiding Marco, who was very confused at why you were in a full-out, dead sprint away from your cabin. Your laugh echoed off the trees, your legs carrying you, unwittingly, to the doctor’s cabin. Crashing into a tall figure, your eyes connected with Bepo, who was as confused as Marco. His mop of fluffy white hair was falling into his eyes, his bright orange shirt nearly blinding you. 

    “Bepo! Help! Is there somewhere I can hide?” You managed to pant out, resting your palms on your knees as you tried to catch your breath. You felt bad for putting the big guy in such a position, but it was life or death here! Ace was no doubt hot on your tail, and you didn’t have much time. 

    “Y/N? What’s going on?” Law stepped out of the doctor’s cabin, the sleeves of his sweatshirt rolled up to his elbows. His dark gaze was concerned, and you threw yourself over to him, hiding behind his taller figure as you heard loud stomps heading in your direction. You clutched onto the back of his sweatshirt as Ace walked by the cabin, and you noticed Law stiffen slightly. 

    “I’m assigned with Ace this summer—“ You whispered, just loud enough to reach Law’s ears. He must have heard some kind of desperation in your voice, because he pushed you back into the doctor’s cabin, leaving you to peek out of the small, dingy window to see what was going on. Ace’s attention was drawn at the sound of the door closing, and you felt as though your heart was going to beat out of your chest. 

    The sounds of leaves crunching under his boots made it clear that he had decided to stop by the doctor’s cabin, knowing full well of your friendship with the insomniac doctor rooming there. His head swiveled, and he crouched to check under Law’s car that was parked in the small space beside the cabin. 

    “What are you up to, Portgas?” Law spoke, and you gave a silent cheer. Best friend to the rescue! Ace continued his search, glancing around the cabin until his dark eyes caught on yours peering out of the window. You watched as a slow smirk stretched across his face, and you ducked down quickly, making a small ‘eep!’ noise. Shit, he’d found you! This was not good. You had no doubt he’d do something terrible to you if he caught you, like snatch you up and carry you to the lake, then toss you in fully clothed. You prayed that Law would keep him from coming inside the cabin, leaning your back against the sturdy door. 

    “Trafalgar, did you know there was a rat running around the camp?” You could hear the malicious grin in Ace’s voice, and his slowed footsteps began to approach the cabin. You had got him good, he’d admit. But he was going to get his revenge. He’d seen your cute, round eyes peering out through that shitty window, he knew he had you trapped again. “It got away from me, but I’m trying to find it before the campers get here. You seen it anywhere?” You knew he was talking about you, and a sense of fear became ever present in the forefront of your mind. 

    There was a beat of silence, before Law spoke up, an exasperated sigh leaving his lips. You could imagine him rubbing his temples with a tattooed hand, as if fending off a migraine. “Have you lost your common sense? No, I haven’t seen a rat. We’re in the middle of the woods, idiot.” You let out a sigh of relief, you knew Law would never sell you out. Leaning your head back into the door, you relaxed, feeling safe in the small quarters of the doctor’s cabin. “If you’re that worried about it, go tell Eustass, I’m sure he’d be happy to flay the thing.” You imagined Law waving Ace away with a hand, his eyes shaded by his white and black hat. 

    “I can keep an eye out for you!!” Bepo chimed in, his eager voice bringing a sweet smile to your face. Ever the gullible man, he was easily tricked, leaving you feeling a little sorry for him every time Penguin or Shachi played a prank on him. He really meant well, but often got roped into sticky situations. 

    “No need, Bepo.” Law shut him down, he knew exactly what was going on. Everything clicked into place the second Ace had come strolling into the clearing. The deadpan look on his face left no room for games, he had things he needed to do, and this little prank Ace was playing was pushing his meager patience. There were still records to check, medicines to organize, and the check-up room to sterilize. With three days until the campers were set to arrive, he had no time to waste on Luffy’s idiot brother. He’d have to have a talk with Nami about switching your cabinmate, Ace was definitely no good. Maybe you could room with him instead? It’d be a little cramped, but it would be better than the Newgate cabins. 

    “If you say so.” Ace’s voice was still light, his tone smug. “I’ll just have to keep looking all over camp until I find it.” You could hear leaves shift as he likely pivoted, whistling a tune as he began to stroll away. You were safe for now. Exhaling, you leaned back into the door, only to tumble backwards when Law opened the door. Lying flat on your back and staring up at him, you sent him a nervous smile. 

    “Hi.” You mumbled, your eyes connecting with his bright yellow ones. You probably looked like quite the sight, face flushed and hair sticking out in all directions from your frantic sprint from earlier. 

    “Hi. Get up.” Law retorted, stepping over you and back into his cabin, his long strides taking him easily across the room. “Why are you rooming with him?” Your friend asked, sorting through his supplies that he needed to give to each of the camp doctors. Latex gloves, bandages, ibuprofen, and small first aid kits were laid out on a long table against the wall. 

    “Well it wasn’t my choice.” You grumbled, sitting up, just as the screen door slammed shut, knocking into the back of your head. “Ow!” You hissed, rubbing your sore head. You pushed yourself up, walking over to Law, and flopping down on his bunk. His sheets matched his hat, the white and black spotted pattern across the length of it. It was kind of adorable. Letting out a sigh, you closed your eyes, your frustration building. “If it was my choice, I’d be rooming with Nami.” You pouted, slapping your hands over your sweaty face. “You think someone would be willing to switch with me?”

    “You and I both know you don’t like rooming alone.” It was true, you didn’t. The pressure of watching over so many kids combined with the nerve-wracking sounds of the forest at night destroyed you, you’d found that out the first year you became a counselor. Robin had to switch with you, for which you were eternally grateful. “Could you room with Thatch or Marco instead?” 

    “No. The other counselor bunk in Marco’s cabin is broken, Usopp told me earlier. And Thatch snores. Bad.” You shook your head. “And I don’t want to make a big deal about moving cabins around.” It really wasn’t worth all the grumbling that would no doubt come from the other counselors. You could stick it out, you were sure Franky would build you a temporary partition between your bunk and Ace’s if you asked nice enough. 

    Law was thankful that he had his back to you, a deep set frown on his face. He really didn’t like your rooming situation. That fire-obsessed ravenette was more trouble than he was worth in his eyes. He could count on one tattooed hand the number of brain cells that Ace likely possessed, and it didn’t make him feel any better about your bunk mate. He was stupid, reckless, and irrational, just like his younger brother. Sabo was the only one out of the adoptive trio that Law could stand, since he at least had some common sense compared to his brothers. 

    With a sigh, you sat up, bouncing slightly on Law’s plush bed. “It’s fine, really. I’ll figure something out. The last thing I want to do is bother anyone.” You shrugged, kicking your feet against the old wood floor of the doctor’s cabin. As much as Ace bothered the hell out of you, you didn’t want to reciprocate that feeling. You wouldn’t be a burden to any of your friends, not this year. 

    You could just.. ignore him! For an entire summer. You nodded to yourself, thinking it was definitely a solid decision. You had become surprisingly good at blocking out others, especially since you’d roomed with Zoro and Sanji last year. Their bickering was endless, even in their sleep, which was somewhat impressive. Since then, you’d been able to tune anyone out whenever you wanted. It was a nice skill to have, especially since the majority of your friends didn’t know how to use their inside voices. 

    “If you ever need a break from him, there’s always the sick cot in here.” Law jerked a thumb to the other side of the cabin, where a thin curtain split the room into two parts. Emergency medical equipment was braced around a small cot, with various cabinets stocked full of supplies. He was entirely serious, he’d rather have you in his sights than with that untrustworthy moron. Who knows what he could try to do to you?

    You stood, walking over and giving Law a quick hug from behind. “Thanks, Torao. I appreciate it.” He froze up as he looked over his shoulder, a warm, genuine smile on your face. His hand clasped over his mouth, the tips of his ears turning pink as he tugged his fluffy hat further down on his head. You let go, spinning on your heel as you headed to the door, peeking out and looking around the clearing. Eyes landing on Bepo, you whisper-hissed to get his attention. 

    “ Bepo! Is Ace still around?” The boy perked up, his fluffy white hair almost glowing in the afternoon sun. He hurried looked around, even standing on his tippy toes to look up into the massive, towering trees, as if Ace had scrambled up one like a squirrel. You watched Bepo with an amused look, giggling softly, before he turned back to you with a salute. 

    “No sign of him! I think we went back to the mess hall!” He reported, his black eyes shining. Heaving an exhale of relief, you slipped out of the cabin and walked over to him, mimicking Bepo and standing on your tippy toes to give him a pat on the head. His posture relaxed, and he let his hand fall to his side, a shy blush over his cheeks from your actions. 

    “Thanks Bepo. You’re a real lifesaver.” You grinned, skipping out to the main path that ran past the doctor’s cabin clearing. Readying to scurry down the path, you were stopped by Law calling your name, clearing the steps in one long stride. 

    “Here, if you’re avoiding Ace, can you at least take these to Chopper?” Law held out a bag packed to the brim with excess supplies, you could see bandages, braces, gloves, cotton swabs, everything necessary for a camp doctor stuffed into it. He held it out to you, his face lacking in emotion. His yellow eyes here half-lidded in what seemed like boredom, but you knew it was just his resting face. You teetered over and plucked the bag from his grasp, sliding it over your head. 

    “Sure thing! I’m assuming he’s at the TSGM cabins?” You piped up, tilting your head to the side. TSGM stood for the Thousand Sunny / Going Merry cabins, the second biggest cabins in size behind the Newgate ones. Two large buildings sat across from each other in a massive clearing, one with a large sheep head above the tall doors, and the other with a large, kind of goofy looking lion head. They were both painted in reds and light blues, with a large bonfire pit sat snugly between the two cabins. 

    Everyone called the two cabins the TSGM cabins, because saying Thousand Sunny / Going Merry cabins every time was a bit of a long-winded mouthful. They had the most counselors assigned to them, due to the number of campers that stayed there vastly dwarfing any other cabin. Each cabin held about twenty campers, leading to about forty campers total between both. You were lucky that most of your friends were extremely competent in their caretaking, forty campers was hardly a challenge for them. 

    “Yes, if he’s not at the mess hall.” Law nodded, crossing his arms and shifting his weight as he spoke with you. “In the bottom of the bag is his copy of the campers with allergies, so make sure he gets that too.” You nodded, determined to get all the materials to Chopper. 

    “Right.” You began to stride off, Bepo waving his goodbyes before Law called him into the cabin to help him with something. Bepo rushed inside, but your doctor friend watched you go for a moment, concerns about you at the forefront of his mind. He knew you’d be fine, you knew how to take care of yourself, but he couldn’t bring himself to put any amount of trust in Ace. 

    You walked down the main road, your head on a swivel as you scanned for Ace, eventually letting out a breath as he seemed long gone. You instead let yourself get lost in thought over all the things that you still needed to do before the campers arrived in three days. You still needed to make sure everyone had their staff shirts, make the copies of the event schedule, check the walkie-talkies, double check the campers who’d be in your cabin.. you were nearly thinking in circles as all of your responsibilities were listed in your mind. 

    The wind whistled past your ears, distant birds singing in your ears. The path to the TSGM cabins was straight through the fairly dense woods, so you had to follow a path lined out of stones and roots. It wasn’t too bad, but then again you loved the treks through the woods, you loved the familiar burn of your muscles as you pushed your way up the slope, your boots stepping over the few uneven rocks in the path. 

    After a few minutes, humming a soft camp song to yourself, the TSGM clearing came into view, and you smiled as you approached it, calling out for Chopper. The flowerbeds on the outsides of the cabins had been pruned, their pretty flowers brightly colored against the dark green grass. Around the outskirts of the clearing, tangerine trees blossomed, a few pale white petals blanketing the bases of the trees. Their sweet scent drifted past you, making you smile. 

    Not hearing a response, you stepped into the Thousand Sunny cabin, the one with the large lion head over the wide doorway. Bunks were arranged on both side walls, partitioned off with half-walls that had thin mesh up to the ceiling. The back wall had a door leading to the counselor part of the cabin, similar to yours, except that there were more counselor bunks in the back. 

    In the center of the cabin, Usopp, Luffy, and Zoro were playing some kind of card game, one you couldn’t quite figure out considering they were using uno cards as well as traditional playing cards. They were seated at the low table in the room’s center, cards scattered across the floor. 

    “Hey. What are y’all playing?” You asked, stepping up behind Luffy, who craned his neck back to look up at you. He gave you his signature laugh, before his eyes widened and he hurriedly hid his cards flat against his chest. 

    Usopp sighed, looking at the mixture of uno and playing cards tucked in his palm. “Well, we started out playing uno, then Zoro wanted to play poker. Then Luffy wanted to play go-fish, so I guess we’re playing uno-poker-fish.” You laughed, quirking a brow. 

    “How do you even play that?” Curious, you almost made a move to sit down with them, before you remembered the little mission that Law had you on. “Also, have you seen Chopper?” Primarily speaking to Usopp since Zoro was partially asleep and Luffy was kind of a lost cause if you were trying to find someone. You watched as Luffy tossed down a blue reverse card, before letting out a wild cackle and scooping up all of the blue jellybeans that were scattered in front of Zoro, which you assumed were impromptu poker chips. 

    “I’m still figuring that out myself.” The man spoke, wincing a little as Luffy picked up a jellybean from the floor and shoved it in his mouth with a grin. “Chopper’s next door, setting up his bunk.” Usopp shoved a finger at the door, nodding. “I think Franky was helping him set up a curtain or something.” 

    Perking up, you spun on your heel, heading for the Going Merry cabin, the sound of a drill reaching your ears. Pushing through the screen door, you slipped to the back, where Franky was putting up a curtain rod for Chopper’s bunk. The brunette in question was sitting cross legged on his bed, holding up one side of the curtain rod to stabilize it. 

    “Y/N!” Chopper cheered, happy to see you even though he’d seen you just a view hours earlier, accidentally dropping the end of the rod onto his head. “Ow!” He yelped, rubbing the spot on his head. You pouted, stepping over and gently giving him a gentle pat where the rod had hit him. 

    “Law asked me to bring these to you.” You held out the bag, using your other hand to hold up the other end of the rod for Franky as he chuckled quietly to himself. 

    Chopper rifled excitedly through the bag, sorting through each of the things that Law had given him. “He also said the TSGM allergy information is at the bottom of the bag too.” You smiled, relaying what Law had said. Watching him wiggle with glee as he laid each of the things out neatly across his cherry-blossom-patterned bed, you felt the sight warm your heart. 

    Chopper was the youngest counselor, a couple years younger than everyone else. No one minded, he still fit in perfectly, what with his excitable nature. Everyone saw him as their little brother, especially Zoro, who would still carry the smaller med school student around on his shoulders. 

    “Thaank youu!” The brunette cheered, sending you a wide, genuine grin. You returned it, then bid the pair goodbye now that your task was done and Franky had finished putting up the curtain rod. You hummed as you walked out of the larger cabin, trying to decide on what exactly to do next. You did need to talk to Eustass about the walkie-talkies, but he was kind of the last person you wanted to see right now, aside from Ace. 

    Kid was in charge of all of the electrical mishaps, and the general technology around the camp. He was technically a counselor, but had dubbed himself the handyman, due to him not really liking the kids too much. You still weren’t sure why he worked here if he had such a disinclination, and you hadn’t entirely ruled out possible parole reasons, but he seemed like a good enough guy if you were able to see past his rough and tumble attitude. 

    He did kind of scare you a bit if you were honest, with his wild red hair and his massive stature. “Maybe I can ask someone to go with me, then..” You murmured to yourself as you stood next to the large TSGM bonfire pit. 

    “Ask who to go where?” It was as if you were drenched with ice water, freezing in place. Shit. You pivoted slowly, bracing yourself as you saw exactly who you didn’t want to see. He’d pushed his hat up a bit on his head, a dark grin on his face. He’d found you. “Hey there, little rat.” He stepped forward, and you ducked to the side, racing to clutch onto the man who was laughing wildly and leaving the Thousand Sunny cabin. 

    It turned out to be futile as Luffy whooped, and raced to give his brother a massive hug, dragging you along with him. “AAACE!” Luffy screeched, laughing as he launched himself onto his older brother. You were stuck clutched onto the shorter ravenette’s arm, one that was currently shoved around Ace. You gulped as Ace spoke to Luffy, but kept his sly gaze trained on you. 

    “Hiya, little brother! Been a while!” His tone was upbeat and full of affection for his adoptive sibling, but his eyes were dark and malicious. He pat the top of Luffy’s head, earning another elated laugh. The two did have some resemblance, what with their fluffy mops of black hair, tanned skin, and impulsive attitudes, but that was about where resemblance stopped. Ace had soft freckles over his cheeks and arms, and Luffy was built a bit lankier than his taller counterpart. 

    “Yeah!!” Luffy grinned, his wild laughs seemingly unending. You had to admit, it warmed your heart, seeing the brothers reunited. It wasn’t enough to make you relax around Ace, though. You kept your guard up, who knows when he would try to get back at you for running out of the cabin and tricking him. Yanking your arm out of the brother’s hold, you took a few steps back, debating on running again. 

   Zoro and Usopp came trailing out after Luffy, Zoro walking over and resting his arm on top of your head. His good eye was fixed on Ace, a prideful grin hooked on his face. He was a slight bit taller than you, but a few inches short of reaching Ace’s height. His posture was languid as he leaned on you, entirely relaxed. You didn’t notice the harsh glint in Ace’s eyes as Zoro came into your proximity. “Heya, Ace.”

    “Long time no see!” Usopp piped up, sending Ace a grin. The man in question waved as he tried to pry his laughing brother off of his waist, to no avail. Luffy had latched his long arms around Ace and held on with a grip that almost sent you into a fit of laughter. The younger brother was just so excited to finally reunite with Ace that nothing was going to get him to let go. 

    “It’s been a while, huh?” Ace’s demeanor swapped from tense to his usual laidback, goofy tone, eventually letting go of Luffy’s arms and giving up on trying to push him off. “Glad you’re all back this summer.” He nodded, reaching a hand up to flick the sun bleached brim of his orange cowboy hat. 

    You slowly began to slink away while Ace’s attention was on Usopp and Zoro, only to halt dead in your tracks when Ace’s eyes shot back to yours. “You need some help with somethin’, spitfire? Heard you mumbling to yourself.” His eyes narrowed and he grinned, turning the small group’s attention to you. 

    You squeaked, biting your lip and looking around frantically for some way to get out of this situation. “Uh.. Yeah.. I’m good I think! Just.. y’know.. running some errands for Nami, nothing big…” You scratched the back of your neck nervously. You wouldn’t mind someone going with you to get the walkies from Eustass, but you knew Usopp would never go with you, and Luffy would probably just piss off the rage-inclined man. That left you with two choices, Zoro, who you was leaning on you, never breaking his gaze from the pair of brothers, or Ace, who you had no doubt had some kind of scheme up his sleeve to get back at you. 

    “I can come with you, I’ve been meaning to stretch my legs a bit.” Ace’s words locked in your fate, and you frantically tried to change his mind. 

    “W-Well I hear the lake is lovely! I’m sure a stroll would be nice over there!” Slight red coloration began to work its way into your cheeks, your hands shaking slightly with fluster. You looked up at Zoro, but the man above you didn’t move, still staring down Ace. What was with all of the men acting weird this summer? 

    Pulling away and stepping aside, you spun, deciding to go off on your way. Maybe Luffy would keep Ace from following you, slow him down a bit. Your pace quickened, speed walking towards the forest path away from the TSGM cabins. Sparing a glance, you watched Ace yank Luffy off of his waist with a, “Get offa me, Luffy!” and send him flying with a strong throw. His little brother only cackled as he crashed into some shrubs, peeking out of the leaves with another wild laugh. 

    You were always amazed at Luffy’s resilience. He threw himself around the camp and got into pointless fights with his friends, always seeming to bounce back as if he was made of rubber. You just chalked it up to his stubbornness and minuscule amount of braincells. 

    Scrambling further down the path, your rushed steps lead you as far as you could get from Ace and the TSGM cabins. You’d figure something out about seeing Eustass on your own, maybe you could pick up Sabo? He’d surely be up for helping you. Anyone, anyone except Ace, really. You just didn’t want to face the brute mechanic on your own, something about him made you nervous. 

    Snagging the tip of your shoe on a root, you were reminded of your dreaded clumsiness. Tumbling down the dirt path, you heard your friends call out in concern as small rocks scraped your arms and twigs dug into your hair. Your shirt was darkened with black dirt and mud. You could hear the heavy stomps of Ace and Zoro, and Luffy flinging himself down the path, too, claiming it seemed like fun. 

    Groaning as you picked yourself up off the ground, you wiped your forehead, wincing slightly. Your hands were a little scratched up, but it wasn’t anything too bad. Hearing a little “hmph” from above you, you slowly lifted your head, meeting the gaze of the man you wanted to see even less than Ace. 

    Eustass motherfucking Kid. 

    Scrambling backwards, you knocked into something firm, rolling your head up to see Ace standing above you. You groaned, leaning forward and hiding your face in your hands. Your day was getting worse by the minute. Why did it have to be him? Eustass in front of you, Ace behind you, and trees blocking your sides. You were effectively trapped between a flame-giddy moron and a bastard with a garbage personality. 

    “Oi, watch where you’re falling, sweetheart.” Eustass growled, a wicked grin on his face. His trademark lipstick was applied impeccably, his brass goggles resting on his forehead. Wild red hair stood up in every direction on his head, his gaze indecipherable. You had no idea how to read him. His massive height dwarfed yours, at least a head taller than you and Ace, which was insane, because Ace was a stunning 6’1. 

    Bouncing hurriedly to your feet, you ended up accidentally backing into Ace, who held you close to him with an arm firmly around your shoulders. You flinched and tried to pull away from him too, but then you’d just be closer to Eustass, who you really didn’t want to get near. 

    “Hello, Eustass. Been a while.” Ace spoke, a confident and determined grin on his face. He looked smooth, calm, even though he had to crane his neck back to meet Eustass’s eyes. 

    “Wow! Crazy! Eustass, just the guy I was looking for!” You laughed nervously, mustering up all the meager courage you had left in your emotionally exhausted frame. “Nami wanted me to get the walkies from you and pass them out to the counselors. ASAP.” You added on the last part in an attempt to get out of there sooner. The quicker you were away from the two taller men, the better. 

    “Killer’s got em. Pinocchio wanted me to check on the pipes for the showers up here first.” Eustass’s eyes were narrowed at Ace, refusing to greet him in return. The two had a terrifying rivalry, one you didn’t want to be a part of. 

    “Oh! Okay! Cool! Mind if I just.. scoot around you to go find him..?” You tried to wiggle out of Ace’s hold, but he stood steadfast, not allowing you to take a single step away from him. “…Ace?” 

    After a second, Ace let you go, shoving his hands into the pockets of his khaki cargo shorts. “I’ll come with.” Nodding his head, you knew there was no way you would be able to change his stupid mind. The trio of brothers was known to be as stubborn as a pack of mules, much to the chagrin of everyone around them. Once they made up their mind, it was near impossible to get them to change it. 

    sent Ace a smirk full of intent, but Ace shrugged it off and pushed past him, following you as you scurried down the path. The taller man said something to Ace, but he just flipped Eustass off as he walked, his dark eyes trained on you. 

    “What is with all the men acting so stupid this year?!” You hissed to yourself, deciding logically that Killer would be in the New World cabins. Even if he wasn’t there, you weren’t going to turn back and ask Eustass. You’d had enough near-death experiences for the day, and with him, you had no idea when he would snap and lose his temper. It was definitely not a fun thing to witness, especially when Killer wasn’t around to cool him down. 

    Following the path to the New World cabins, Ace broke the peaceful silence once the red-headed menace was far enough behind the two of you. “So.. That rat must’ve got out when you ran out.” His words made you sweat, a tense feeling of unease passing over you again. How long was he going to hang this over your head?

    Running your finger along a narrowed signpost as you walked past it, you anxiously fiddled with the hem of your shirt. “Yeah.. haha.. crazy..” Murmuring, you did your best to tune him out, focusing on the crunch of the leaves, the blustering breeze, a fat bee floating in the air, anything other than the ravenette. But he had other plans. 

    “Sure hope it doesn’t get back in our cabin. Or in your bed.” His voice was maliciously teasing. “You can always hop in mine if you get scared.” He nodded matter-of-factly, and you scoffed. 

    “Yeah right. I’d sooner spoon a rat than cuddle with you, you deranged arsonist.” You turned over your shoulder and stuck out your tongue at him. “Even Luffy would be a better cuddle buddy than you, I bet.” You were reminded of the few times you’d passed out with Luffy on the shores of the lake when you were kids after playing for hours upon end, your limbs starfishing out, with your yawning mouths wide. He wasn’t the best cuddle buddy, considering he both liked to cling to you like a koala when he slept or push and shove you in his unconsciousness. But still, he seemed like a better option than Ace. 

    “Such hurtful words, spitfire. I’ll never recover.” Ace sighed, bracing the back of his hand against his forehead as you continued to walk, not bothering to make sure he was still behind you. 

    “Good. Die.”

    “Now, now, that’s no way to talk to your favorite cabinmate ever.” 

    “I wish I was rooming with that fake rat instead.”

    You bantered back and forth, not giving him an inch. He annoyed you like crazy, what with his unshakeable confidence and immeasurable ego, but he did keep you entertained on the short walk to the New World cabins to find Killer. 

    The man in question still wore his mask, his blond hair flowing down his shoulders. Despite his somewhat off-putting appearance, he was a total sweetheart, and great with kids. He gave off the same motherly air as Nami and Robin did, it was way too easy to imagine him in a pink frilly apron holding a tray of steaming cupcakes. You weren’t very close with him by any means, but he was still kind. That much was evident from all the times you’d interacted with him. 

    The masked man had given you a friendly pat on the head before placing a massive cardboard box into your arms, filled to the brim with walkie-talkies. You nearly buckled under the weight, Killer apologizing for forgetting that you weren’t exactly one of the weirdly strong counselors at camp. Reassuring him, you struggled to pick the box up off the ground for more than a few seconds, before Ace sent you a grin and hefted the thing as if it were nothing more than an empty box. 

    “Let me.” He couldn’t be happier to lift the dumb box for you, his grin wide and full of glee. Ace held it up on his shoulder, an arm tucked over the side of it, and placed his other hand on his hip, puffing out his chest with pride. 

    You gave him an unimpressed look. “..Thanks. Let’s go, box boy.” Ignoring him basking in his own triumph, you waved goodbye to Killer and started back to the mess hall, for the third time that day. Your legs were wearing out a bit, still not used to all the walking around the uneven terrain. The aching in your muscles was beginning to get a bit painful, and you were relieved when you reached the mess hall. 

    Slumping down into one of the chairs, you let out a tired exhale, Ace plunking the box of walkies on the old table beside you. It was nice of him to carry the box, but it was also an inevitability if you wanted to get anything done. Digging into the box, you pulled out everyone’s walkies, having been customized the first year you’d gotten them. You recognized Zoro’s immediately, chipped green paint and three little swords glued to the back of it. Then Robin’s, painted a soft purple with quotes from various books printed on it. 

    Each walkie matched its respective counselor perfectly, even Luffy’s, covered in glitter glue, random beads, a mass of stickers, and macaroni noodles. You found Ace’s at the bottom of the stack, painted red and orange with a fire pattern around the base, and handed it over to him, looking furiously for yours. 

    “Thanks! Damn, still looks perfect.” Ace nodded as he rolled his walkie around in his grasp. Admiring the paint job he’d done, he rubbed his thumb over a few chipped spots. “Might actually need a few touch ups.” He hummed, sitting halfway on the table. 

    “Mine isn’t in here.” Your brows were furrowed. Did it get misplaced? Checking again, you dug back through the box, only to reaffirm your suspicions. Taking each one out of the box and laying them out on the table, you proved your point. 

    “What?” Ace looked up, his eyes scanning over the array of devices. There was Nami’s, Law’s, even Bepo’s, but yours was nowhere to be found. “Maybe it just got misplaced.” He clipped his to his waist, before sorting through the ones on the table, counting them off before coming to the same conclusion as you. 

    You frowned, slightly put off that your walkie was the only one missing. Your gaze panned over everything again, before realizing. Your walkie wasn’t the only one missing. Eustass’s tacky one with the big metal casing was gone, so was Killer’s with its blue and white stripes. Snapping your fingers unconsciously as you tried to work out where your walkie could be, you began to neatly replace all of the devices back into the old box. 

    Thinking back to earlier, you realized Eustass had had something else clipped to his belt. His toolbelt, his own gaudy walkie, then yours . Why did he have your walkie-talkie? You weren’t exactly mad at him, but you needed it in case any emergency arose with the campers, and it was weird in the first place. He didn’t need two. 

    “You alright over there? You can just hold onto mine.” Ace offered, unclipping his and holding it out to you. You shook your head, pushing the walkie back to him. 

    “No, it’s fine. I know where it is.” The ravenette cocked a brow, looking at you in surprise. Though he should’ve known you’d figure it out, you always were a quick wit. 

    “Where is it? Did one of ‘em stick it in Newgate?” He pondered, flicking one of the dials absentmindedly. 

    “Eustass has it.” You shuddered. Of course fate would have you confront the man who terrified you on the regular. The man’s head popped up from where he’d been peeking at the box of devices, staring at you incredulously. 

    “Why does he have it?” Ace wrinkled his face, weirded out and confused, same as you. It didn’t phase him too much, Eustass always had odd habits. Maybe he planned to take it to you? But then why did he only take your walkie, and not the ones for the rest of the counselors? Something was off. 

    “Guess I better go find out.” You sighed, pushing yourself up from the table. Pausing, you debated taking the box with you, and luckily Ace picked up on your train of thought as he lifted the box to his shoulder again and followed you out the door. You had become suspicious of both of them, Eustass and Ace. Ace was being oddly nice to you, and Eustass had taken your walkie. What was up with them?

    “You’re being weirdly nice and it’s freaking me out.” You muttered, giving Ace a glance. He shrugged, suppressing a smirk. 

    “Whatever do you mean? I’m always nice.” He held a calloused hand over his heart, pretending to be taken aback. 

    “Yeah right. Not after earlier.” You scoffed, crossing your arms as you walked across camp for what felt like the millionth time that day. Although you’d never tire of seeing the beautiful scenery, you were beginning to tire of your company. 

    Ace stopped in his tracks, causing you to stop and look at him in confusion. He stalked up to you, leaning in and muttering in your ear. “Oh, I’ll get you back for sure. Don’t let your guard down, firecracker.” He chuckled before winking and walking ahead of you, steady on his feet as he went. 

    You, on the other hand, had dropped your jaw, staring at his broad back with wide eyes. 

    You were fucked. 

[abeinginsand]

Can we have 🫂💤 for Taylor? :3

Heya Cereal and definitely!! Thanks for the ask and sorry for the delay. Just got back in from work! Spinning him around in my mind, such a silly little guy :]

---

Friendship Headcanon

As a nephew cousin uncle pseudo sibling duo, Hermie and Taylor are constantly antagonizing each other haha. Teasing each other about their crushes, arguing about some show they both watch, and other stuff. Giving each other random titles while also alternating who gets called "uncle" or "nephew".

On the softer side, they try to look out for each other. Taylor staying behind in the cat bus to keep watch/guard things while he's having a flare up day. Hermie coincidentally having a sudden stomach ache and staying behind to keep him company. The sound of cat purring and the great debate of the top ten anime and play betrayals is a fun distraction.

Hermie having some shape-shifting issues in public place and Taylor doing an intense series of anime poses and jokes to draw attention away. When Hermie calms, he musters enough energy to give a playful critique of the performance. Taylor ends up surprised because it's the nicest critique he's heard him give to anyone. "Well if you're so surprised, I can easily take such words back? 🤨" to which Taylor says no take backs haha.

And since we're getting into the sleep part next... Taylor is very affectionate with his friends. Usually in the form of high fives, fist bumps, a hand on the shoulder, and leaning against them if sitting together. Sometimes he'll end up falling asleep if it's during a movie night, game, or car ride.

---

Sleeping headcanon

Taylor has an easy time falling asleep while sometimes struggling to stay asleep for long, especially if he's alone or feels alone. He tends to sleep with a pile of pillows and his childhood toy, a Santa Snoopy. Having something to hold onto is comfy, often holds Hermie's or Lincoln's hands when they have sleepovers. Unfortunately, Taylor usually ends up moving a lot in his sleep so watch out--ending upside down or half way off the bed at times. If napping, he likes leaning on people like his mom if having a little movie night on the couch or always falling asleep in his dads arms as a baby. Nicky coming late to hq and everyone thinks it's because he thinks it's cool 😎. Real reason being not wanting to wake up his baby boy who looks like a little angel in his sleep.

When he adopts Zoro (gray cat I've drawn a few times), the cat likes to sleep curled around his head on a pillow. The purring is soothing and tends to help him fall back asleep. Though he is not immune to scrolling social media on his phone at 3 am instead.

In dreamland, Taylor tends to dream of a mix of shows or manga that he's looked at recently. He is always in the protagonist spot and no matter the plot there is always a mom character that is basically a dream Cassandra. It's a version of her that let's him break more rules and have more weapons though. In a nightmare scenario, he tends to still be in a plot except no mom and no sidekicks. Lonely and lost protagonist traveling through an ever-changing and dimly lit cavern. The little flame torches are his only comfort there.

On a sillier side, he has attempted lucid dreaming a few times. One of those times was a dream version of the school and he explored each classroom, spotting different characters hidden amongst the students. He spent most of the dream in band class with Miku! The teen was on keyboard and she sang one of many one piece opening songs. For some reason, it was a hard rock cover and her pitch was shifted down. Next song was a Rick roll and as soon as he dramatically gasped about the betrayal...

He woke up and realized he was snoozing on his keyboard with his music editing software stuff open on his computer.

[tittyfixation]

Nami lost count of the days since she last saw Vivi. Princess duties for Vivi made maintaining their friendship difficult, but certainly not impossible. But as her bright blue hair came into her vision, it was like no time at all passed between them. With a wide smile, the two of them squealed as Vivi pulled Nami into the tightest, warmest hug she’s ever felt in years. Then again, she may have been only a little bit biased. None of that mattered though as Nami was hit with the floral scent of Vivi’s hair.

“I’ve missed you so much, Nami!” Vivi exclaimed with a squeal, squeezing around her waist and gently spinning the both of them. They both laughed and the two of them pulled away, Nami now lightheaded at finally getting to touch her after so long. “How have you been? How’s all of your friends?”

“Me and the guys have all been good,” Nami said, her fingers fiddling with the seams of her shirt. Vivi linked her arm with Nami’s and they began to walk down the street, Nami feeling her flowy skirt brush up against her legs. “So um, how’s the knighting process going?”

“Well, it’s been difficult, Father doesn’t think anyone is good enough. Besides Zoro, but he is just one person,” Vivi sighed, resting her head on Nami’s shoulder with a small pout, “he’s very protective.”

“Well I would hope so, you’re his only kid,” Nami teased lightheartedly, but she recognizes how important the knighting process is. Kind of. She really didn’t understand why it was important, only that it was important to Vivi and that was all that mattered to her. An idea popped into her mind, but she shook her head as quickly as it came up. No, she couldn’t be that selfish, not when Vivi was worried right now.

“I know, but still.”

“Well he wants to make sure he can trust who’s protecting him and you, right?”

“Yeah you’re-” Vivi began and her eyes brightened as something popped into her mind. The two of them stopped walking and Vivi grabbed both of her shoulders. Nami almost stumbled but she caught herself on Vivi’s arms, an action that would’ve definitely drawn looks from other people in the castle.

“What’s up?”

“Why don’t you become one of my knights? I can recommend people now!”

This was too good to be true, it was like Vivi was pulling Nami’s wants out of her head and placing them on a silver platter. The only other thing she understood about being a knight for Vivi was that it required being close. All the time. Watching her to make sure she was safe. And what kind of idiot would Nami be to deny a chance like this? 

“Well, at least we know your dad will like me.”

[ijwrsmff]

Hello there

This one is a bit lengthy but can i please get headcanons of the straw hats reaction to an admiral reader(gender neutral please) who quits the marine to join them, and is at first is distrusted but does something to gain theirs trust

I hope it's not too much trouble

It's no trouble at all! I really like this idea, it was a ton of fun to write! I hope you enjoy it ^^

Luffy:

He found you during a fight with the marines

He noticed...you were so much stronger than the marines you were fighting with

Maybe not strong in comparison to Luffy...but he was extremely powerful so comparing to him isn’t fair

He saw you deal what should have been a finishing blow to his crewmates…

But for some reason you never hit them hard enough to kill them

Down them, sure...but never kill

He makes quick work of the other marines, and approaches you with a smile

“Join my crew!”

You looked at him baffled

“Quit the marines and throw away all my hard work to become an admiral because some...kid thinks I would be a good match for his crew? No thanks.”

Luffy left it at that, but knew he’d see you again soon

You encountered him once more at a nearby island

“Is...is that offer still on the table?”

He grinned wide and pulled you by your hand to his ship

He couldn’t put his finger on it...but something was special about you

He just knew the crew would love you

After they get over their initial distrust that is

But Luffy? He trusted you already

No hesitation, he knew you had a good heart and that’s what really mattered

Zoro:

He didn’t trust you...at all

He would go silent when you talked to him, giving you the silent treatment

He didn’t trust the marines...how was he supposed to know you weren’t there as a spy?

You tried to talk to him a couple times...but he just pretended he was sleeping

One day, he was up in the crow’s nest training and you walked in

“Mind if we spar? It’s been a while since I was able to.”

Since you left the marines

He huffed but gave a firm “sure”

He didn’t go easy on you, which surprised him when you handled yourself fairly well

You parried his attacks, and gave a few good jabs of your own

He respected your strength

He still won...but he expected to beat you within seconds

Not minutes, nearly half an hour of sparring

From then on, he’ll make small talk with you

Every once in a while he’ll go to take a nap and he’ll pull you down to lay beside him

He also sits next to you at the dinner table, even helping you fend off Luffy when he tries to steal your food

Overall...he respected strength. And if Luffy chose you...you were here to stay

Once he starts to trust you, he’ll protect you at all costs

Nami:

She trusts Luffy’s decision...but that doesn't mean she has to trust YOU

She won’t go out of her way to be mean...but she won’t help you if it means bending over backwards

She interrogates you, wanting to know why Luffy had chosen you

After days of interrogation on and off...she thinks she sees why

You were unhappy in the marines

Sure...you managed to become an admiral...but the happiness you had hoped to feel just wasn’t there

She discovered that in the short time you’ve been on this ship, you’ve felt happier than you ever did in the marines

She’ll be nicer after that, slowly building up her trust in you

“Want me to show you how I chart the islands we go to?”

Even if cartography wasn’t your thing, you figured it would help get you closer to Nami

After that, you would spend hours upon hours with Nami

She can be very...very protective

So once she trusts you, any comments about you that weren’t warranted she’d defend you

She wants to get closer to you, and spends the majority of her time with you

Either sitting on the deck or working on her maps

She even tells Sanji off if he starts to bother you, making the hearts in his eyes break

She’ll protect you...and she knows in her heart you’d protect her too

Usopp:

He is so...so scared of you at first

You were an ADMIRAL

How could you just give up that position to join a crew?

Doesn’t trust you for a good long while

He’s convinced you’re a spy

He lets his imagination get to him, and that drives a wedge between you two

You don’t blame him...the situation is sketchy, but you were genuine

You would spend all the time needed to get the crew to trust you

After only being with them a short period of time...you trusted them with your life

And that’s never happened before

In the marines...people wouldn’t go out of their way to save another if it meant getting hurt in the process

During battle, you stepped in front of Usopp and took a harsh blow, forming a long slash across your chest

After that...he’s significantly nicer to you

He visits you in the infirmary and looks...troubled

“What’s wrong Usopp?” You give him a concerned look

“Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why did you save me...you’re hurt now. Because of me.”

You smiled at him...so he did care

This was a good first step

Maybe eventually you can become even closer

Sanji:

He’s reluctant to trust you at first, but Luffy seems to see something in you…

Just like he saw something in him

So he tries to get closer to you, even going so far as to not flirt with you

Not until he got to know you better

The first time he really began to see the trust between you building was a regular day

Nothing particularly special about it, except you went into the kitchen while he was cooking

“Mind if I help?” It was your attempt to get closer to him

“Of course! Here, I need this mixed.”

You cooked together in relative silence, small talking every once in a while

Overall it was...nice

It was a bonding experience and he cherished it

That day, he sat next to you at the dinner table

You gave him a wide smile, which he returned

He would defend you to anyone who spoke ill of you after that

He could be quite protective, and it showed

Especially to Zoro, who made comments about your being a spy (which only made Usopp and Chopper panic more about the situation)

“Hey marimo! They don’t deserve the bullshit you’re throwing at them. Back off.”

“What are you gonna do about it, shitty cook?” A smirk formed on Zoro’s face

Oh dear...it looks like they’re fighting again

You went to speak up, but Nami stopped you

“They get like this sometimes. Though it’s impressive how quick Sanji was to take the bait this time...I think he likes you.” She gives you a wink and your face flushes

Who knows what the future will bring...all you know? Is that you made the right choice to join this crew

Chopper:

He wants to trust you...he really does

But the nagging fear of you hurting his crew is at the back of him mind

He avoids you, not wanting to risk getting hurt

Once you get injured in battle...he realizes how unfair it was that he did so

“I’m sorry y/n...you’re hurt. Please follow me to the infirmary.”

He keeps it relatively formal, only talking when he needed to do something to check on you

“Would you...come back in a couple days so I can check on the wound and how it’s healing?”

You gave him a smile “yes doctor! Thank you!”

“Hehe you don’t have to thank me I don’t deserve your thanks I was just doing what I’d do for any of our crew!” He swayed back and forth, his paws on his face as he smiled

You could swear you saw flowers around him…

After that, he invited you to play games with him, Usopp, and Luffy

While Usopp was still reluctant, Luffy was 100% on board

“Come on y/n! Play with us!” Chopper smiled up at you and...well...there’s no way you could say no to his adorable face

So you joined in

It was fun...more fun than you thought possible to have

You laughed as Chopper tagged you, and you spun around picking him up in a hug

“Chopper...thank you.”

He smiled and laughed, “for what? Tagging you?”

You shook your head, putting him down

“No...for being a good friend.”

And he was, he was your best friend. You grew closer to him in the days following and you were certain you made the right decision

Robin:

She knows what it’s like to not be trusted by the crew initially...but at least with her it was one pirate to another

You were a marine

And not just a marine...but an admiral

She is reluctant to trust you, but will give you the benefit of the doubt

She spends a lot of time with you, gauging if you’re a threat to her crew or not

She would sacrifice herself for any one of them...you’re no exception

She almost thinks its her JOB to determine if you’re a threat or not

It wasn’t until your first battle together that she finds she trusts you

You give her a look, and she knows to use her devil’s fruit

You both coordinate perfectly together, and it shows your trust

She has only battled so flawlessly with her crew...which means you’re entirely one of them now

She will defend you from that fight forward, and stands up for you when the others express their doubts

“Y/n? Would you like to read with me?” She pats the spot next to her and smiled at you

“Of course! What are we reading today?”

The two of you grow closer and closer, spending hours upon hours just...enjoying each other’s company

She looks at your smile and knows...she would do anything to keep that happy smile on your face

Franky:

He doesn’t trust you...but he doesn’t...NOT trust you

He’s reluctant to get close, but finds it’s really easy with you

He’s newer to the crew, but he trusts Luffy’s judgement

So he doesn’t have any reason not to give you a chance

He’ll spend time with you, requesting you sit in his workroom as he works on a specialized weapon for you

Over that time, you make a lot of small talk

It brings you closer together

“Y/n! What do you think?” He’ll say holding up your now finished weapon “Pretty super, right? Don’t you just love it?” He has a look of pride on his face that makes you grin

You take the weapon into your hands and feel the weight is perfect

Not light, but not overly heavy either

“Thank you Franky!” You jump up to hug him and miss seeing his face turn a dark crimson

“O-of course! Anything for a crewmate!” He hugs you back, lightly as if he’s afraid he’ll break you

This makes you laugh, “Franky...I was an admiral remember? I won’t break from a hug!”

“Well then...take this!” He lifts you up, spinning you around in circles

You both laugh, pulling each other closer and closer

Once he sets you down you see the fleeting color of pink on his cheeks

You were sure your face mirrored the same color

He knows in that moment he would protect you

Even if you didn’t need it

Maybe...protect isn’t the right word

It sounds so...one sided

“I’ll protect you...will you protect me?” He looks sheepish, almost as if he hated asking

You lean up and kiss his cheek

“I’ll protect you Franky. I’ll protect all of us...this crew...it’s special.”

He nods, knowing exactly what you meant

“Then we’ll protect each other.”

And it was settled

Brook:

As soon as you stepped onto the ship he approached you

“Your name is y/n...correct?”

“Yup! That’s me!”

He leaned down so your…”eyes” were level with each other

“Can I see your panties?”

SLAP

“...is that a no?”

It’s safe to assume...he doesn’t judge you for being an admirable

Though seeing some of the crew be distant from you...it only motivates him to speak to you more

You looked tired after playing with the crew on deck, so he approached you

“Would you like me to play you a song to help you sleep?”

You stared wide eyed, not knowing he was the musician on the ship

“Sure! Would you...maybe be able to teach me how to play an instrument?”

“Which instrument would you like to learn?”

You hummed, “I’m not sure. I’ll get back to you on that.”

And so he played you a song

It put not only you, but Luffy, Usopp, and Chopper to sleep

He would have grinned if he could, and looked over his crewmates with love

As he finished the song he looked at you once again

“Sleep well y/n...I’ll see you tomorrow.”

[the-witch-of-one-piece]

Sanji, Zoro and Luffy (Monster Trio)with S/O who uses pick up lines on them.

A/N:hello hello my dears back again I forgot I had the day off today so I was able to do some drafts. This one is the Monster Trio with there s/o using pick up lines on them. I hope you all enjoy!

Sanji

Sanji was always I mean always used his pick up lines on you. That was one reasons you both ended up together in the first place. His sweet charming and romantic personality brought you closer to him. You were always flattered by his pick up lines but you decided to use on on him this time. You were keeping him company in the kitchen as he was looking at the recipe book and making some tweaks to his liking as he started adding some of ingredients to a bowl. You took ahold of the recipe book pretending to look at it before saying. "oh that's interesting." you said looking at the book.

"What is interesting sweetheart?" he continued to mix the ingredients .

"I always thought happiness started with an ‘h,’ but it turns out mine starts with ‘u.’"

"you are the cutest thing ever in the whole wide world you just made my day _______!!" He hugged you as he twirled around with you still in his arms.

"ahhh Sanji I'm getting dizzy!" you felt the room spinning you were holding onto the man for dear life once he stopped trying get your footing back and stable.

Zoro

Everyone on the Thousand Sunny were having a good time. Sake was every and where sake was Zoro was. He drank sake like it was water and for you well not so much you could only handle so much at a time. The liquid courage making you feel confident after another and another. Zoro watching laughing and finally popping a seat on his lap. Slightly spilling your drink out of your cup.

"Whoa watch it _______." he adjusted you on his lap getting more comfortable. "I think you had enough." he tried to take it away from you.

Playfully rolling your eyes "Trust me, I’m not drunk; I’m just intoxicated by you." in a luring voice as your hand sliding up his exposed chest and the other hand holding your drink.

"Are my pores really reeking of sake that much?" he asked not know you were using a pick up line. You deadpan expression appeared on your face

"Your kidding me right?" asking him.

"Kidding about what?" he looked at you.

"You are so clueless!" you shout a sight bit

"clueless about what you're not making sense?!?!?!" he shouted back.

Luffy

Bless your boyfriends soul for being so clueless as well. He was on the deck eating as usual. It wasn't stopping anytime soon it amazed you how he would devour down the food and he wouldn't gain a drop of weight but if you would eat one piece of cake you felt the difference in your pants. Wishing to pull his attention away from the mound of food. "Heyyyy _______ join me!!!" his face full of food with his signature goofy grin. You couldn't help but smile and make your way to where he was. "look at all this yummy food!"

"Its does look good" clearing your throat getting his attention "So I've been doing some thinking." your head rested on your palm you other hand tapping the table with your index finger.

"Your always thinking." he continued to shoving the slab of meat in his mouth hardly chewing it..

"If I could rewrite the alphabet, I would put ‘U’ and ‘I’ together." giving a sweet smiled at him.

"why would you want to do that? It won't make sense?" he blinked a few times still looking at you unsure why you want to do something like that.

"You don't get it?" narrowing your eyes at him.

"Yeah you want to rearrange the alphabet placing u and I together...." he stopped for a moment suddenly realizing what you just said. " OH I get it now. U and I together shishishi!" he snickered. He leaned over kissing giving you a big kiss on the cheek.

[tooweirdforyou]

How ASL Bros React To Getting Married To You

A/N : well, I reallyyy want to write a nice long fic but like.. life man. I’m on spring break and have work all week and with my sleep problems 😭 just enjoy this please c:

Summary : what the asl brothers wedding would be like.

-

Luffy

“Woah! You look awesome, [Name]!”

So cheery and wholesome.

Zoro is his best man, ( much to Sanji’s dismay )

EVERYONE is there, every single person he’s ever met is there so it’s crowded and you basically had it outside, in Foosha Village, though he wanted it to be on the ship.

All of the girls Luffy’s met is responsible for your appearance, they all helped you on your big day.

Some of the marines were invited, of course.

Luffy’s best mans/groom mans ( idk) ( other than Zoro ) consists of Sabo, Ace, Sanji, Usopp, Franky, Brook, Law, Shanks and Koby.

Your bridesmaids consist of Nami, Robin ( maid of honor ), Perona, Tashigi, Vivi and Makino. ( shirahoshi and others didn’t have too much room to stand by you because of the guests so they just sat in their respective seats.)

Before it officially started, there was a lot of tension so separation in seats were needed. Big Mom’s crew is sitting on the left back, Marines in the front right, Law’s, Kid’s and Shanks and other pirates are put in the right back, and everyone else Luffy knows is in the front right.

Few are still in shock because of the fact that LUFFY is getting married before them.

A lot of yelling and laughter from everyone is around but as soon as the classic music is playing in the background, everyone shuts up and turns to face the back, where you’re walking with Garp.

Old man Garp is the one taking you, and even he is full of tears from the fact that his own grandson is getting married.

“You take care of my dumb ole’ grandson, you hear? If he ever becomes too much of an annoyance, just knock him a few times in the head.”

And when you finally reach him, everyone is quiet and has the proudest smiles on their faces. Their Luffy is all grown up.

His bright, radiating grin is plastered and he is pretty overwhelmed but right now, you’re distracted by his handsome look in his suit.

Of course, he has shorts instead of long dress pants but he still looked handsome regardless.

Vows are said, rings are given and you smile at Luffy as the minister ( Sengoku ) questions your commitment.

“Do you, [ Name LastName ] take this complete fool, Monkey D. Luffy, as your everlasting husband and, future pirate king?”

Chuckles are heard, and you couldn’t suppress a giggle either. “I do.”

“I see. I wish you luck on this journey. Luffy, you may now kiss the bride.”

Claps are heard around as Luffy grins. “About time!” He cheers and pulls you by your hands, quickly smashing your lips together in a kiss.

“Congrats, Luffy!”

“Not bad, Straw Hat.”

“Where’s the beer? Time to party!”

“Alright, Luffy! Woo!”

Music is quick to break out as everyone is celebrating and cheering.

You and Luffy already cut the cake, ( it took you a lot of force to make Luffy not shove his face in the cake and just CUT IT. )

The giant cake made by Sanji and the Big Mom family, was shared for everyone and there was still plenty left.

And it was just a fun time with everyone. You even threw your bouquet(?) behind you already and it seems the next to be wed was Tama!

Clearly some of the women weren’t too happy to see the little grow becoming married before them but it was a nice laugh.

The night goes on and it’s getting late. Guests are leaving after wishing the two of you well and you two head in for your suite that Nami booked as her present.

“It feels normal. I thought this was some big special thing, why is it such a big deal again?” Luffy questions, forgetting what the girls had told him the several nights before about weddings.

You smile gently and set the last wrapped gift to the side with the others, taking a glance at the shimmering ring on your left hand.

“Because,” you spin around and face your husband, reaching over and taking off his straw hat that he kept on.

“It swears our connection and commitment to each other. Why do you think Shanks married Makino, despite their long distance relationship?”

Luffy offers his gentle smile, seemingly more relaxed at the mention of the two of the most important people in his life, out of many.

“Because they love each other?” He guesses calmly, tilting his head and you nod, giggling at his black hair that swayed.

“And I love you.” You whisper, leaning closer and felt Luffy’s arms enveloping you in a tight hug, his face nuzzling into your neck.

“I love you, [Name].”

And he leans back, connecting his lips on yours.

-

Ace

“Oh..wow..”

Oh boy, did the Whitebeard crew go BIG.

I have a feeling that Ace would want something a little normal or smaller perhaps, just inviting his personal friends and family, and maybe a few people he met along the way of his journey.

He’s a friendly, outgoing person but for a personal occasion, it’s best to stick with the people you’re closest to.

But he wasn’t complaining when he saw the large äss party, feast and the important people in his life showing up.

Sabo, Luffy and his crew, Shanks, Makino, all of his brothers, members of his old crew, Garp, he was thrilled to see everyone!

The wedding was held on Whitebeard’s ship, of course. It wasn’t too fancy or grand but still pretty large and the ship was right in the middle of the sea.

Ace is all dressed up handsomely in his suit, with the help of Marco, Vista and Izo. His hair isn’t too messy and just styled neatly.

You were dressed beautifully in your gown/suit, with the help of the nurses, Nami, Robin and Izo.

There was a bit of trouble with seating but naturally, many people stood up anyways and were quite busy throwing confetti and other things at you, even if it was a wedding.

Whitebeard is taking you down the aisle, it’s a little bit difficult but he still did, and you can bet he’s excited to have a daughter/son that will help watch over Ace’s dumbass self.

“Rough him up real good, take good care of my stupid son. And call me Pops!”

When Ace sees you walking down, he’ll admit, he’s teary. He’s actually found love, someone like him.. and he’s about to be married to you, the most amazing, attractive, and sweetest person he’s met.

You look so amazing in your outfit, he’s in tears. He’s so lucky.. Marco has a hand on his shoulder and patting his back. “Congratulations, Ace. You deserve this.”

Wiping his tears with his finger, he nods and exhales, holding the widest, warmest smile he could muster.

He was going to love you and protect you all of his damn life, that’s for sure.

The minister is actually Vista! Ace’s best man is Marco and his groomsmans all include Thatch, Luffy, Jozu, Izo, and Haruta!

“Do you, [Name Lastname] take this young kid as your loyal, lawful and everlasting husband?”

“Really?” Ace pouts at Vista’s joke and chuckles are heard, even yours.

“I do, Vista. I’ll make sure he grows.” You giggle as Ace sighs in exasperation.

“Very well. I now pronounce you husband and wife, Ace, kiss your damn bride already.”

“My pleasure.” Ace grins and he’s quick in pulling your wrist towards him, and spinning you into a dipping motion before connecting your lips together in a kiss.

Whistles and catcalls are heard as loud cheers and applause are made.

“Go Ace!”

“Alright, Fire Fist!”

“Better not lose her, Ace!”

Ace rolls his eyes at the comments from his brothers and pulls you back up with a smile. He’s a little glad he didn’t fall asleep midway because of his narcolepsy.

Party immediately breaks out, Sanji aids Thatch in the kitchen to bring out everything and it’s a long night of dancing, boozing and more.

Ace is just off with the guys, having fun and celebrating while you are off with the women, talking about experiences and such.

And when Ace finally finds you and pulls you two away to his room for some alone time, he pulls you close.

“Well, Mrs. Fire Fist, what do you want to do first?~”

His arms are around your waist as he secures you towards him, a cheeky smile on display on his face.

“Not sure, what did you have in mind?” Playing coy, you shrug and tilt your head, turning away from his face which he pouts and uses his hand to force his back to him.

Pecking your lips, Ace smiles again and leads you to his bed. “I have an idea, if you’re up to it?” He wiggles his brows, making you laugh.

He jumps onto the bed, pulling you with him so you were on top. “Well?”

“Oh! Cuddles, I get it! Sure, I’m tired anyways.”

Ace groans at you, heaving a sigh and he whines. “Come on, [Naaamee]!”

You just giggle and sit up, repositioning yourself on his lap and straddled him. “Fine, fine. You’re lucky it’s our special day today.” You hum.

“Oh? So you don’t want to do this after today is over?” Ace muses, smirking a bit since he knew the answer.

You puff your cheeks out at the thought of not having sex with Ace anymore, but you weren’t going to back down. “..Nope!”

Knowing the truth, Ace chuckles and begins to grind upwards into you.

“Alright, I guess I better make this a special memory to remember.”

-

Sabo

“You look incredible, [Name]..”

The most average, normal one. It’s traditional, smaller than most would be, and it’s for personal guests only.

So close members of the revolutionary army, his brothers, Garp and Makino were the only ones invited. If Luffy wanted, he could bring his crew but that’s it!

It’s traditional, so it was held inside a chapel, of course. It wasn’t anything special, everything was set up already and prepared for a small group so it was great.

Sabo is in a dashing, handsome suit like Ace was, but somehow has a much more charming, princely appearance. He helped himself in the appearance, with smallest help of Inazuma.

Your dress too! Somehow it’s more Royal appearing and your veil resembles a crown in a way. Koala and Iva helped you out in this!

Sabo’s best man is actually Ace! The strongest brotherly bond overpowered the thought of having Kuma, Iva or Luffy as a best man, but fortunately, they didn’t seem to mind, since they were groomsmans anyways. Iva being both bridesmaid and groomsman.

Ace was pretty teary and honored, and felt so excited.

The one who takes you down the aisle is Dragon. He’s a little awkward about it at first but he is quite proud of Sabo, even if he doesn’t openly show it.

“Take good care of him, alright?”

“I will.” You assure, thanking him when you finally reach the point of Sabo’s side.

The whole time, Sabo is staring at you in awe, feeling speechless. How did he manage to get someone as beautiful and wholehearted as you?

He can’t contain his wide grin and excitement, his hands just a hint clammy from the nervousness of possible rejection. But he knew you loved him. Because he loves you.

“Someone looks handsome.” You whisper in a giggle and Sabo chuckles. “Not compared to the beauty you have right now.” He winks.

The minister is actually Kuma, of course. Kuma was the obvious choice. Kuma took the position with gratitude.

“[Name Lastname]. Do you take Chief of Staff Sabo, as your lawful, loyal and everlasting husband?”

“I do.”

“Congratulations. I now pronounce you husband and wife, Sabo, please do the honor of kissing your bride.”

Sabo is the most natural approach, taking a step forward and cupping your cheeks in his hands and pulling you forward, for a kiss.

Cheers and applause are made and heard, and Luffy, being the brother he is, pulls out a loud confetti popper and pulls it, it shooting it out everywhere like fireworks.

“Congratulations, you two!”

“Alright, time to get drinking!”

“Better not let this get in the way of your missions..”

“Luffy, how’d you even get that?!” Sabo widens his eyes and he laughs. “Franky made it for me! He said it’ll be super, for the wedding!”

“Geez..”

You can’t help the laugh that escapes your lips and Sabo finds himself laughing alongside you and the whole place is soon filled with laughter and cheer.

It’s a small family party but it was still pretty chaotic regardless, and Sabo makes sure to take you outside for some fresh air when it becomes nighttime.

“Hey, feeling okay?”

Taking a seat on the bench nearly, Sabo sits beside you and you nod, immediately leaning into his shoulder.

“It’s overwhelming, I guess..” the warm smile that spreads your lips is contagious as he does the same when he sees it. “But,”

You take a look at your ring finger, that held the beautiful silver ring and diamond. “I couldn’t be happier with today. I’m married to the love of my life.”

Sabo smiles gently and closed his eyes, leaning against the backrest and let the moonlight light against his face.

“I am, as well. I couldn’t be any luckier to be married to you now..” taking your hand in his, he intertwines your fingers and brings your hand up to kiss.

He kisses your ring finger specifically and hums.

“Thank you.. for being with me.. I love you, [Name].”

“Of course. Thank you for being with me. I love you, Sabo.”

-

-

A/N : well! This was sweet~ I feel bad for Luffy’s part because it’s not the greatest. :/ but I hope you enjoyed! :D

[eureka-its-zico]

Chaos in Their Bones Ch. 6

Ongoing Series

Synopsis: All your life you’d listened to your friend, Usopp spin wild tales about pirates and adventure. Pirates weren’t a thing that came often to Syrup Village, but one straw hat pirate and his crew changed all that the day they arrived. Now, you aren’t so sure if your sleepy little village was always pirate-free or if no one had been paying attention.  

Pairing: Roronoa Zoro x Reader

Genre: friends to lovers, frenemies to lovers, slow burn (I hope y’all like aching) eventual smut

Words: 16.7+

A/N:  I swear I don’t start writing chapters with the intention of making them like this. The next chapter is probably going to be smaller because I get so much anxiety giving you guys these big beefy chapters. This chapter is HEFTY and full of angst. There are more one-on-one interactions with the crew members to start bringing everything together. I'm not going to lie, I struggled a lot writing this week because I started to think my writing was trash. I know it’s not necessarily true but ya. I prevailed enough to bring you this. As always, thank you, guys, for all the love and support. For always being so kind and loving my story as much as you do. I hope you all continue to enjoy this story🖤 Much Love, Jenn

P.s. This chapter is sponsored by not really  Halsey’s - Ya’aburnee 

Chapter 1  Chapter 2  Chapter 3  Chapter 4  Previous Next

The background noise that rose and fell in octaves around you told you that they were all still talking; still arguing. Usopp disappeared to find Luffy who you could only guess was inside that damn kitchen. Nami continued to try and talk sense into Zoro who ignored every word she said by lazily running his swords over the wet stone he’d placed on the galley’s island. 

“Are you even listening to me?” 

Nami was struggling to keep her voice calm but she was losing. She’d looked over at you more than a few times since you’d all evacuated to the ship to help her, but what could you magically say to make Zoro change his mind? He didn’t seem like a man who responded to pleading or demands. 

He strongly held on to his beliefs. They were a system that guided him; molded him into the pain in the ass he was now. While you watched him continue to tune Nami out it was easy to see the dedication he’d given over the years to become who he was even at a young age. 

Behind all that arrogance was a determination that sliced just as sharp as his blade. Zoro knew who he was and what he needed to do to succeed, and that was more than you could say for yourself at times. 

So…who were you to get in the way of his dream?

The answer to that was as startling as a slap to the face. You were the woman who’d fallen hopelessly in love with him, and he hadn’t even realized it yet.

While you wanted to remain steadfast and devoted to the belief that Zoro had a chance and that the probability of him defeating Mihawk was high, the realistic part of you sounded like Naan. 

“Get those foolish thoughts out of your head, girl.”

For once, you wanted to swat away all of her cynicism. All of her realism forced you to fight to still believe in magic and the good in the world around you outside of science and facts. You wanted to believe that Zoro knew what he was doing and that he was strong enough to beat a grown man almost half his age. 

The other part of you, however, howled on the inside for you to stand up and go to him. To take his face in your hands and demand that he look at you and not turn away. Zoro didn’t respond to pleading, but it didn’t keep your own cries from weighing heavy on your tongue. 

Don’t do this. Stay with me. Make a new dream - with me. 

All your life Usopp and you imagined what it would be like to get off the island. To put Syrup Village behind you, all the pain and unknowns that never received answers. You could both leave on your own adventures and replace all the painful memories with ones aboard ships and the open seas of possibilities. 

You never imagined you’d meet people like Luffy or Nami. Like him. 

Looking at Zoro now as he dragged his sword over the stone one last time you felt your heart sink. Zoro had placed all three swords neatly on the table and took his time giving them adequate deadly attention. He didn’t seem bothered that you and Nami were in the room and sheltered out anything she tried to tell him. 

Nami was begging in her own way. What could you possibly say that would change his mind? She was looking at you now, as your arms wrapped so tightly around yourself - constricting the breath from your lungs making it impossible to formulate words. You were holding on so tight because you knew if you let go, you might run to him. 

“Doc-“ the sound of her calling you jolted you out of your thoughts and back into the present. Back to where you didn’t want to be. Nami was flying her eyes like a whip from you and back to Zoro as if you needed help knowing where to direct your pleas. “Is there anything you want to add here?”

Fuck 

Zoro looked up. He actually looked up from what he was doing to look at you. Shit. Did he want you to say something? Or did he just want to know if you were going to be another obstacle in his way?

“I-“  I don’t know what to say. 

What did she expect you to say? Everything you wanted to say wasn’t meant to blurt out in front of her or anyone else. You were still trying to process that you were admitting to yourself that all the feelings you felt weren’t just indigestion. That it wasn’t just the liquor from the fishbowl that made you wish you’d laced your fingers in that moss-green hair and kissed him. 

Luckily for you, Usopp came running back into the galley which told you all that Luffy was right behind him. 

“Oh great you’re here. Maybe you can convince him to call it off.” 

Zoro had gone back to examining one of his swords and making sure it was ready for the morning. He looked so deep into the edge of the katana you wanted to ask him if it was like a magic mirror and what did he see? Did he see a victory inside that blade as he polished it? Or did he see something much darker? 

“I won’t do that.”

“Did you not see the size of that guy’s sword? He will slice you into sashimi.”

“What’s going on?”

“I have been trying to figure that out for the last thirty minutes,” you huffed. 

Your words only earned you an exasperated look from Nami. 

“You were there when it happened!” She shot back, her voice incredulous. 

“And I am still struggling to comprehend how we went from zero to a thousand in less than a minute.”

You hated this entire thing. The tension radiated like a volt of electricity between all of you. One minute, you felt fine, or as fine as you could be in this situation. The next, the anxiety from Usopp or Nami would set you off or you would completely close down like the indifference Zoro was currently showing all of you. 

“I’m even more lost now,” Luffy muttered.

“I’ll tell you what’s going on. Your big, bad Marine grandpa sent a warlord of the Sea to bring you in, and instead of getting the hell out of here when he had the chance, Zoro challenged him to a duel.” 

“Which he accepted.”

“Yeah, that pretty much sums it up,” Usopp muttered to Luffy. 

Usopp looked as nervous as you felt. Your body finally removed itself from the booth in the galley to stand beside him, linking yourselves arm and arm. 

While Nami spoke, Zoro sheathed his sword and placed it back on the island. His arms extended out as he leaned his hands against it, his eyes boring a hole into Nami as she spoke. 

“You are a fly to him. Something to be swatted and forgotten.”

“Not if I win.”

“You’re not going to.”

“You don’t know that.”

Your hand fell down to grab at Usopp’s and squeezed it lightly. Big brown eyes turned to look at you and, whatever he saw reflected in yours, was enough to make him squeeze yours back. 

You knew Nami was trying to make a point. This dude was dangerous. He was a pirate warlord, for Christ's sake, but the idea of Zoro no longer existed…

No. No. You wouldn’t think it. Couldn’t. 

“Guys, guys, maybe we need more drinks,” Usopp offered. 

A part of you wanted to laugh. You could feel it bubbling up inside your chest but the wildness of it let you know it would come out panicked; a sound that displayed the current breakdown of your soul. 

No one else seemed to appreciate his attempt at lightening the mood.

“Tell your first mate he’ll get himself killed.”

“Tell your navigator to butt out.”

For once, Luffy looked lost. A look of childish uncertainty replaced the care-free nature that lived inside him. You hated seeing him so unsure, but he was the captain. He was your captain and these situations called for him to make the best decision for his crew. 

“Maybe this isn’t such a great idea, Zoro.”

“When you met me tied up on that cross, what did I say?”

Oh, no. No. You knew where he was going with this. Luffy telling you the story in this very galley came flooding back in crystal clear clarity. 

“What makes you think I wanna play pirates with you?”

“No, the other thing.”

“I kill your kind for a living?”

“No!” Zoro almost shouted the word. “Come…” A groan of frustration left him as he finally looked away from Luffy. The desire to get Luffy to remember consuming him - to remember why he needed to do this. 

And like a switch being flicked, a quiet, “Oh,” sounded beside you, and you knew Luffy remembered. 

“That you made a promise to someone a long time ago to become the world’s greatest swordsman.”

“The only way to do that is to beat Mihawk in a duel and take his title. I intend to do just that.”

The words left him in a shout. All that determination rolled into a punch of syllables directed at Nami. At you. Anyone who tried to stand in the way of fulfilling that promise he’d made so long ago. 

“Can’t you just fight him without anyone dying?”

Your voice was sheepish, so small it barely carried over a whisper. Zoro wouldn’t look at you. You’d only earned a small flick of his attention before he replaced it back on the galley’s island. 

“To be the world’s greatest swordsman only one can live. There can’t be two-“

“Why not that just seems silly-“

“Because that is just how it is!” 

He’d dismissed you without a second thought. A teacher schooling an ignorant child who wasn’t privy to how the world works. You wanted to throttle him. 

“Even if you die in the process? Will you please do something?”

It hurt to see Nami so frantic. You were used to seeing her composed and smart. Maybe her anger when someone was doing something particularly idiotic. Never broken. Not like this. 

Luffy regarded Zoro one last time and when you saw the soft smile press a hard line into his lips, you knew any chance of getting him to change Zoro’s mind was gone. 

“It’s his dream, Nami. I can’t get in the way of somebody’s dream.” 

“What if I dreamed of being eaten by a sea beast what the-“

Usopp gently tugged on your conjoined hands to get your attention. His head shaking once to tell you now wasn’t the time to make jokes or be angry. Wasn’t it? 

“What’s it going to take, huh? You want me to say you’re the best? You’re the best. Okay? You’re the best I’ve ever seen, but you are not better than him. And if you fight him tomorrow, you’re going to lose.”

Every word she spoke threatened to make your knees collapse. You didn’t know anything about Dracule Mihawk, except his apparent love for overly large things. Big sword. Big hat. Big feather for said hat. There was no denying, however, the sheer power that radiated off him as he stood there unmoving while Zoro challenged him. The fact there hadn’t even been a glimmer of worry that shifted through his eyes told you plainly he was more powerful than you could imagine. 

And Zoro wanted to fight him. To the death. That manic laughter was beginning to bubble up again in your chest and you weren’t sure if you were going to be able to keep it quiet this time. 

Zoro finished sliding his last sword home inside his sash as he asked, “Why do you even give a shit?”

“Because you are my friend, you idiot.”

“You said it yourself. You don’t have any friends.”

If this was something Nami ever spoke of, it wasn’t something she’d shared with you. Maybe it had been true before you’d all met each other, but that wasn’t true now. In that moment, it didn’t matter if she remembered you were all there or not. His words hit a scab deep inside her and pulled and picked until he ripped it open. 

Fresh blood from an old wound. 

This time you weren’t worried about accidentally saying anything. Warm fuzzy feelings were thrown to the back of your mind as your own blood thundered for you to come forward and defend her. 

“And you are acting like a Grade A asshole.” 

You released Usopp’s hand to take a step forward. You had every intention of going to her and seeing if she would allow you to stand beside her. You never got the chance. Nami’s eyes looked at each and every one of you- her supposed crew mates - just before she turned on her heel and left the room. 

Once she disappeared from sight it left only the four of you inside the galley. Luffy looked as if he was trying to process just what took place and Usopp, well, he was Usopp. He looked about as lost as you were in the grand scheme of things. 

Your eyes flashed to Zoro and found him already looking at you. His wrists hung loosely over the hilt of the sword as he regarded you. He didn’t soften as your eyes met his but seemed to harden further. A silent challenge for you to try and say something that he would only dismiss. 

“What was that?”

“I told her the truth.” 

“No,” you snarled. “You told her whatever was most convenient for you and your feelings. You want to go get yourself killed, Zoro. Fine. But don’t stand there and act like everyone is supposed to be happy about it.” 

“No one told you that you had to be here or that you were even wanted here.”

“Guys-“ Usopp interjected. 

Neither of you were listening. You could feel your eyes narrow in on him. The pain that had moments ago made it impossible to breathe now hardened into stone.  

“You better hope Mihawk kills you, Zoro because if not I’ll make you wish he had.” 

A part of you meant what you said. Your anger was a living thing at how Zoro used his words as an extension of his swords. Your skin felt like brimstone with the current of fire underneath ready to burst free and set him on fire with how fucking angry you were at him. The way he spoke to Nami. To you. And yet, underneath all that building rage was a fear so palpable you could taste the cold sweat on your tongue. 

You didn’t want to hurt him. You didn’t wish him dead. You just wanted him to admit that his ghosts screaming for battle also scared him too. Instead, you were locked in a staring contest you knew you would lose. Zoro’s eyes hardened until he was a mask; unreadable and untouchable. While you knew at any minute your regret was moments away from making itself known. 

With one final look in his direction, you turned to storm after Nami. You needed to find her and make sure she was okay. She did have friends. She wasn’t alone like she apparently thought she was. 

You rounded the corner of the galley that led to Nami’s room. Usually, you would’ve knocked or done something to announce yourself. Naan raised you to be aware of everyone’s space and it was rude just to barge in but you weren’t thinking. You were brimming with too many emotions; too many thoughts that fought to be the clearest. So, when you barged into Nami’s room an apology was already forming on your lips. 

Until you saw her standing with a bag in hand. 

“Where are you going?”

The question hung between you like something fragile. Her own throat noticeably bobbed as she swallowed around something she was going to try and sell you. 

“I was just going out-“

“Don’t lie, Nami.” You moved the rest of the way inside her room and closed the door behind you. “No one carries around an entire suitcase just because.”

Her tongue rolled around the bottom of her lip before she turned away from you. You took note that she was still holding onto her suitcase. She wasn’t going to drop it, which meant however this went she planned on still leaving. 

You didn’t want another Zoro-style fight where insults were thrown to prove points or make someone hate you into letting them go. When she turned back to look at you, all the emotion was stripped from her and you prepared yourself for a fight. 

“Are you going to tell Luffy?”

A sigh pressed past your lips as you shrugged. 

“What am I going to tell him, Nami? You left because you got into an argument and someone said something you didn’t like?”

“Like I give a shit what Zoro or any of you think.”

“Is that why you’re worried I’m going to run and tell Luffy you’re leaving? Make it make sense.”

She turned on her heel and walked back over to a drawer she’d left slightly open. Her hand pushed it back hard before she turned back to face you. The hand that held her suitcase dropped unceremoniously on the floor. 

“I need to leave.”

“Why? Nami, If this is about what Zoro said you know it’s not true.”

“Who are you kidding, Doc? We never chose to be a crew. We were all thrust together by circumstances and just stayed together.”

“Usopp and I chose you guys.”

Hollow laughter escaped her like she couldn’t believe you’d claim this madhouse of a crew. Or maybe the joke was on you, and you just couldn’t see you were the butt of the joke. 

“You don’t get it-“

“Help me understand!”

“I had a job to do before I met Luffy. I completed it and I need to get back.”

“If that was true you would’ve left a long time ago.”

“Ugh, what is it with you? Why can’t you just accept that I’m leaving?”

“Because I don’t think you really want to go back,” you replied, cutting her off. 

The two of you stood there in a silent face-off. Deep down, you both knew that you were right. There were plenty of opportunities for her to leave and go back to whatever life she had waiting for her, but she’d stayed. Maybe it was because of convenience, at first, but somewhere along the line, it changed. 

Nami was happy being a straw hat. Whatever life she had previously was one she’d continue to run away from if she could, but something was calling her back. Whether it was family. Friends. Work. You would never know unless she told you. 

“What makes you so sure?”

“People who want to sneak away in the night don’t stay up showing a small town village girl maps they created in hopes of drawing a map of the world one day.” 

It was only a few nights ago when she had done it. You’d been unable to sleep. Your stomach was tossing like the waves outside the ship. You’d tried to make a tea to ease your stomach and it had failed miserably. Nami had found you curled up becoming one with the galley’s kitchen and gently peeled you from the table. In the very corner she stood in is where she’d sat with you under the light of a lamp and showed you every map she’d ever drawn.

“That’s just a dream, Doc.”

“It’s a good dream.”

She shook her head, her hand outstretched to take back the suitcase she'd discarded. 

“Dreams are just fairy tales for adults. It’s better if you get used to disappointment now than later.”

You wanted to reach out and grab her as she moved past you towards the door. You still had time to do it. To shake her - yell at her - that they didn’t hold the commodity on pain or a shitty life. Maybe you would never know what it was that Nami lost. She may never want to share with you that story of her life, and that was fine. You just wanted her to know she didn’t have to keep running. That you would help keep her dreams alive and safe as long as she wanted them. 

When you turned to follow her you found the door wide open and Nami gone. You could’ve chased after her, but it would only cause a scene. She’d made it clear she’d meant to run in secret - you finding out was an unexpected accident. A part of you wanted to tell Luffy so you could both go charging after her and make her come back, but Luffy would never make anyone do something they didn’t want to do. 

How could it be in less than a day everything had gone to shit? Zoro was so eager to die and Nami…Nami was just gone. With one last look around her room, you moved to sit in the chair she’d been in earlier. The sound of her laughing as you tried on clothes brought the ghost of a smile to your lips and you wondered if you’d ever get to hear it again. 

The Going Merry felt like a ghost ship. 

Somewhere in the bridge, you were aware Usopp had run to hide there as the after-hours of fun began to take its toll. Luffy disappeared outside the ship and you wondered if anyone had noticed yet that the ship was one straw hat less. 

You’d been sitting inside Nami’s room since she left, unable to leave just in case she’d changed her mind and came back. You wondered how long you could wait here before reality forced you to face it that the small family you’d chosen was falling apart. 

Not much longer if the rising hues of the sun’s blood-orange tint on the night sky had anything to say about it. 

With one last glance around the room, you headed back out onto the bridge. You didn’t know where to go. You didn’t feel like playing nursemaid, though you were sure Usopp would’ve appreciated the help, and you didn’t think you could keep quiet about a missing orange-haired girl if Luffy asked where she was. 

You were starting to feel your own hangover begin to creep in and one thing was for certain, you were going to need some coffee. 

Your footsteps sounded loud against the wood. The sound only reminds you of how empty the Merry had become. You pushed through the galley’s French doors and found yourself walking into a Zoro deep in meditation. It was something he usually did in the confines of his room sandwiched between his crates of rum and the small window that looked port side. You’d only ever seen him do it once on the stern of the ship in the early morning when no one was around. 

Not that you were staring or watching or anything.

All three of his swords were set on the hanging baby blue table in front of the window seat where he now sat. His bandana was secured to his head about as tightly as his arms were to his chest. His eyes were still closed and you thought, maybe you’d be lucky enough to turn around and run back to the bridge. You’d take your chances with Luffy. 

“If you’ve come to talk me out of the duel I’ll tell you right now. You’ll just be wasting your time.”

He growled out the words from somewhere deep in his chest. It croaked in places as if he’d been asleep and your presence had woken him. Zoro hadn’t opened his eyes yet, but he didn’t need to see to know you were there. 

You’d come stomping in like a person ready to perform a verbal battle when all you wanted was some coffee and a little bit of calm before…

“I came for coffee not to tell you how much of an inconsiderate asshole you’re being.” 

That got his eyes to open and focus on you. You only spared him a moment before you made your way to the cupboards. You were just going to focus on getting a cup and what you needed to make your coffee. You weren’t going to acknowledge him.

Even as you reached the cabinets and started searching for the kettle, you could feel his eyes boring between your shoulders. It forced an irritation to set fire in your chest and that only seemed to grow worse until your hands were squeezing the iron of the handles. At any moment, you expected to see blood dripping from your palms. 

You let out a deep breath and tried to push away all the things you wanted to say. To scream at him. You found the kettle and focused on filling it up and turning on the stove because if you didn’t you would start yelling at him about how maddening he was. It was a good thing you had to look for the coffee grounds to steep them or else you would’ve burst with how petty he was; the bitchest man alive. 

If it wasn’t for making your damn coffee you would’ve crumbled into a sobbing mess as you struggled to find the words to make him stay. You were doing a pretty good job at ignoring him, but of course, Zoro could never just leave it alone. He always had to poke and prod and- 

“You seem to be struggling with that coffee.”

“And why does it matter to you? Are you suddenly in the mood to be caffeinated?”

“Just wondering how long it’s going to take for you to finish and get the hell out of the galley.” 

“Okay, that’s enough! Enough, Zoro!”

You hated how your voice betrayed you. The way it broke as his name left your lips. What you hated more was how he responded to the exact sound as it touched his ears. His body language was still rigid but he sat up straighter. His arms dropped down from his body to sit in his lap. 

“I get that this means something important to you. It’s a lifelong goal and you want to accomplish it, but how can you expect to accomplish anything when you push people away.” 

“I’ve accomplished plenty on my own before I ever meet any of you.”

“That’s fantastic. Great for you,” you shot back, your voice dripping with sarcasm. “What I’m saying is, you don’t have to do everything alone anymore. We are all here for you-“

“Why do you even care? What was it you said, that I better hope Mihawk kills me or I’m going to wish he had.”

You knew saying that would come back to haunt you. How many times had Naan told you speaking out of anger never made a situation better? Zoro thought you’d said it because you hated him to the point you hoped he’d lose. 

“I only said that because you are being an ass.”

“I didn’t know you hated me enough to hope I died.”

“I don’t hate you, Zoro! And the last thing I want is to see you get hurt or worse fucking die. Why can’t you see what it would do to the people who care about you? Why can’t you see that I like you, you idiot!”

The words stumbled out before you could catch them. Your chest felt like it was on the verge of collapsing while your lungs refused to release the breath it held captive. It felt like a lifetime passed between the two of you, and yet you knew it was only seconds. It was long enough for the sting of tears to crown your eyes as you waited for Zoro to do something. Anything. 

What made it worse was how unmoved he appeared by your confession. Your words didn’t seem to cause any reaction from him other than his usual empty stare. The cool look of emotionless stone replaced the teasing sparks of mischief that gleamed in his eyes or the smiles that warmed his face when he was surrounded by his crew. 

You would’ve given anything for any emotion besides the empty reply you received.

“You don’t even know me.” 

“I want to know you, really know you, but first, I need the chance to do that. I can’t do that if you’re dead.”

“I’m not going to lose.”

“You don’t know that!”

“It’s obvious that you don’t believe in me. Like Nami. You both think I can’t do it.”

“Oh my god, Zoro - enough! We are just worried for you. We give a shit about you still being alive. I want to be able to wake up and hear your grumpy ass voice or find you drinking on the stern. I want to be able to have conversations with you while you begrudgingly go with me to forge ingredients and put flowers in my hair. I want to see you look at me the way you did standing alone on the Merry like you did tonight.” You took in a shaky breath as you took a cautious step toward his seated position. “You have infuriatingly crawled your way inside my bones, Roronoa Zoro, and have taken hold. I don’t want to know what life is like without you.”

Your breathing was fast and shaky as if you'd been running. It didn’t matter that the tears you’d struggled to contain fell freely down your cheeks or that your chest heaved, ready to cave in at any moment. 

You were vaguely aware of the Sun beginning to peak its way inside the windows. The timer on what could possibly be the last time you were with Zoro coming to an end. Maybe that was why when he moved to stand you allowed yourself to hope. You let yourself believe maybe your admission meant enough to make him stay, but you watched as he silently slid each katana into their holsters on his sash and it felt like the ground opened up and swallowed you whole. 

“Why can’t you just admit you have feelings for me?”

It was true that you didn’t know much about the world or how it works. You’d never been out of the village. Never had many friends outside of Usopp. The boys in the village are always ridiculous or sometimes cruel or just too stupid to look at. You imagined you had to be broken since all you’d cared about was becoming the greatest doctor you could be. So, maybe you’d read into the small glances too much or the way when you almost fell and he’d secured you close to him with his chin dipping into your neck. It was subtle but you felt it. 

People didn’t just do that when they didn’t like someone, did they?

Once he’d made sure everything was secured inside his sash, Zoro came around the table and walked until he stood beside you. He wouldn’t look at you and just kept looking at the battle ahead because now the sun had risen and he had a promise to fulfill. 

“I don’t give a shit about you.” His words stabbed into your chest and twisted. It felt worse than anything you’d ever felt; a storm cloud of emotions that darkened your mind. But underneath that, you could hear the tremor in his own voice as he forced himself to tell you. “You’re just another one of Luffy’s little add-ons to an already big enough freak show of a crew.”

“Why are you so scared to give a shit?”

“Scared of what?” This time when he snapped it whipped his head to look at you. The soft touch of his eyes hardened into something wild and desperate. “Of you?”

“Either you’re scared or you are a coward. Only someone who’s a coward can’t admit to the truth.”

“Or maybe you’re just delusional.”

Maybe you were. You didn’t know how the world worked. How people worked. You’d traveled into uncharted territory when Zoro began to worm his way inside your brain and hold your heart hostage. It was possible you’d only seen what you’d hoped to see. 

His jaw ticked to whatever irritated thought he had while he looked at you. You expected him to say something else. To finally tear you completely down until there was nothing left. Instead, he turned away from you and started towards the galley’s French doors dismissing you completely. 

You listened as he pushed through with the soft sound of the doors swinging on their hinges filling the space. You weren’t going to follow. You couldn’t watch him walk out knowing he may never come back. 

It felt like an eternity passed before you heard the first clash of blades outside the Merry. You were still standing where Zoro had left you. Unable to move, at first, in case you take that move forward and restart time. As if you had the ability to keep it suspended and him safe. 

It wasn’t until that ringing of metal scraping against metal resonated inside the wood of the Merry that your body jerked back into the present. You already knew Luffy would be there with Zoro; believing in him and cheering him on. Usopp too simply because he knew the power of what support could do for someone. 

And Nami…

Nami had to be long gone by now and you? You were here cowering inside the safety of a vessel so you didn’t have to see. The sound of a body colliding into the dock gave yours a jolt. 

Sure, Zoro had ripped out your heart after you’d admitted what you hadn’t been able to admit to yourself. You’d done it, selfishly, in hopes that it would keep him in the confines of the safety of the ship, but that wasn’t Zoro. 

He wasn’t about safety and backing down from anything. From the moment you’d met him, you’d seen the dedication he held when it came to his ability to fight. The fire drove him to consume and lay waste to those who stood in his way, but underneath the harshness of the fire laid something soft. He’d defended that little girl in the bar. He stood up for those who preyed on villages and mercilessly attacked women and children.

For all the drinking and hard-headed idiotic things Zoro could do he was one of the best men you’d ever meet. There wasn’t anything that Zoro hadn’t proved he could do. So, why couldn’t it be possible for him to beat Mihawk? 

With your mind decided, you pushed your back off the island counter and took off running at full speed. You would support him no matter what was shared between you. Zoro deserved it: he deserved to be believed in. 

You were going up and over the stairs to take the ramp down to the dock when you saw Mihawk stab something small into his chest. You could feel your knees buckle. The way your body went limp and forced your legs to collapse in on themselves as they smashed into the wood of the ramp. 

Zoro’s arms were spread out in Y shape. The edges of his swords barely missed the arm’s of Mihawk, the handles of his swords touching the design on his trench. He was close, but not close enough to do any damage and not far enough away from the small blade that Mihawk embedded deep in his chest. 

“No.”

Your denial came out in a hush and was carried away by the wind. 

Mihawk told him something. Maybe about retreating and forfeiting the match to save his life. It was enough to radiate rage through Zoro’s body and hardened his eyes with determination. 

Zoro would never run. It wasn’t in his character. 

Out of the corner of your eye, you watched Nami approach the dock. She came to stand between Luffy and Usopp and for a split moment, everything felt like it was going to be okay. Nami was back. The universe was working on fixing all the wrongs that happened in the last few hours.

Mihawk pulled the small blade from out of his chest and you watched as Zoro stumbled back. His swords helped him to stand back up on his feet to face him. 

“I’ll do you the honor of killing you with Yoru.”

No. No. 

The word almost clawed its way out of your throat. A possession so deep to halt time ached through your veins until you thought it was almost possible to do it. As if the very fabric of the air would rip open at any minute just to save him. 

You couldn’t miss the satisfied smirk that curled Zoro’s lips. 

“Now that’s more like it.” 

You watched as he unsheathed the Wado Ichimonji and brought it up to his mouth. His body stood straighter as he connected the two swords as one and began to spin them. You’d seen him fight plenty of times with just the two swords. The sheer strength he had just using them didn’t seem to compare to anyone else. You’d seen him use his three-sword style only once before and nothing compared to the sheer strength and speed that came from him placing that blade between his teeth. 

Hope blossomed in your chest as you watched him spin the swords. His body took off moments later as Mihawk moved to rush forward, meeting him in a clash that rattled like thunder from the impact. Zoro came to a sliding stop just feet in front of you. His swords still lifted up to deflect the blow from Mihawk’s blade before they crumbled to pieces in front of him.

Zoro locked eyes with you, your body mimicking his, as he removed the Wado Ichimonji from between his teeth. You could feel fresh tears streaming down your cheeks turning your vision blurry. With his eyes locked on you, he used it to help him get to his feet. 

If your voice would’ve worked you would’ve told him to stop. That he didn’t need to turn around but you knew he would. This was Zoro. The most infuriating man on the planet and honored bound to his beliefs. You clamored to get to your feet. To run to him to try and keep him from turning to face Mihawk. 

He must have seen it on your face. You were probably doing a terrible job of keeping your thoughts off your face. All the panic. 

A soft smile slid across his lips. It wasn’t big enough to crack his lips or show teeth. It never reached his eyes, but it didn’t have to. It was a smile just meant for you. His way of telling you it was alright; to soothe you before the final blow came.  

For one last fleeting moment, you looked at one another and you imagined yourselves back inside the ship. Zoro sitting in his hammock being his usual broody self while you clean up the wound on his chest. You could practically hear him mumbling some shit about you not being gentle against the lip of a newly opened bottle of rum. 

It felt so real that, for a split second, you thought it was. You’d been so caught up in your own daydream that you hadn’t realized he’d turned his back on you. Now he was facing Mihawk his arms spread open wide giving him a perfect kill shot of his chest. 

“Wounds on the back are a swordsman's greatest shame.”

“Magnificent.”

In one swift motion, you watched as Mihawk sliced through the air with his blade cutting perfectly through Zoro’s chest. 

“NO!”

This time you did find your voice and it was unhinged. All that panic you pushed to the side and all that hope you’d allowed yourself to blindly follow came crashing down like a wave. It strangled every last bit of feeling until all that was left was the crushing weight of despair. You were aware that Luffy was there at his side. You could hear him calling out to Zoro with his hands pressed at his body. 

You were sprinting down the last of the ramp and onto the dock. You couldn’t remember bending down to be at his side but your eyes could see him. It was Zoro but not the Zoro you were used to. 

Already he was turning ghostly pale as the wound continued to bleed. We have to stop the bleeding. There was so much blood and he was in so much pain. The wound Mihawk created went from the left shoulder down to the beginning of his sash. It was massive. Zoro’s breathing was shaky and would quiet down until you weren’t even sure if he was even taking in a full breath. 

You reached over to feel his pulse. It weakly flutters against your ring and middle finger as you press down. When you pulled away you noticed your forearm streaked with blood. 

“Monkey D. Luffy - what is your goal?”

“I’m going to become King of the Pirates.”

“King of the Pirates, eh? That’s a much more treacherous path than even defeating me.”

“I don’t care.” Luffy looked back at Mihawk. His usual determination in his voice, but it missed the warmth and it trembled with each word. Whether it was from anger or sadness you would never know. “It’s what I am going to do.”

“Hmm. Maybe you will at that. This world could use a few more wild cards. Roronoa Zoro, It’s too soon for you to die. Grow strong and come find me. I’ll be waiting.” 

You wanted to scream at him to go to hell. You wished you could send him there yourself, but Zoro was still alert. He was fighting and that meant maybe it was his fate to be the one to send the big feathered asshole there himself. 

You wanted to tell him that. To make a joke. You owed him the one about the Marine and the Pirate walking into a bar. You just couldn’t bring yourself to speak. Your hands were trembling violently every time you moved them to try and touch him. So, you clenched them down and kept them pressed into your thighs. 

Usopp came to kneel beside Luffy and Nami slowly made her way to stand next to you. 

“He’s losing so much blood. Doc, what should we do?”

What should we do? 

What were you supposed to tell them? You were the doctor. Their doctor. It’s why Luffy had asked you to join. It was your job to heal them and keep them well. 

Doc, what should we do? 

You should know the answer. You should be the one ordering them around and telling them what to bring you to start staunching the wound. 

“He’s gonna be okay. Hey Zoro, can you hear me? He said it was too soon for you to die.”

“Luffy-“

Fuck. Zoro sounded so weak. All the broody, snarky asshole comments that he’d made were full of life. Each word was rich with the baritone of his voice that dripped down your skin like honey. That same voice now barely rose above a whisper.  

“If I fail to become the world’s greatest swordsman…you’ll be disappointed. Right?”

Each word came out strained. With each breath, he fought to take through the gash in his chest. 

“You could never fail me.”

Zoro opened his eyes and looked over at his Captain. The pain began to make tears spring into his eyes and run down the corners. 

“Never. Again. From now until I beat him.” A grunt of pain burst from his mouth as he grabbed his body to the hilt of the Wado Ichimonji and lifted it up to the sky. His free hand covered his face as if he was ashamed. “To become the world's greatest swordsman I will never lose again!”

Zoro swore it with such conviction you expected him to stand up at any moment and walk himself back to the Merry. Your assessment was wrong, however, when he suddenly went limp with the sword and his arm crashing down against the dock. 

“Zoro?”

This time he was unresponsive. The blood pooling around his middle and seeping into the front of his gi blossomed into a flower that grew ever brighter with each passing second. 

“Doc!” Usopp shouted. It was enough to finally tear your eyes away from Zoro and focus on something else. “What do we do? You’re the doctor here.”

“Right.” The word came out in a huff through your nose. 

Your eyes scanned the scene that was laid out in front of you. It was time to be scientific about this. To focus on what was fixable in front of you and to put whatever feelings you had to the side. 

Why did that feel easier said than done?

They were still waiting for you to direct them. Six pairs of eyes equally as lost as you waiting for direction on how to save their crew mate -  their friend - in front of them. Your tongue lashed out to nervously wet your bottom lip as you scrambled to your feet. 

“We - we need to move him back to the ship. We have to stop the bleeding.”

“Okay, right good call, Doc,” Luffy offered as you all scrambled to grab a limb. 

“Just make sure that when we lift him we do it carefully-“

Luffy and Usopp didn’t wait for you and Nami to grab a hold of either leg. They just lifted and his legs flopped against the deck. 

“Jesus, she said to do it together and carefully!” Nami snapped. 

“I’m sorry I’m just nervous.”

Usopp was obviously as panicked as you. 

“It’s alright, let's just grab him and get him back to the Merry.” 

The four of you grabbed a hold of Zoro and this time smoothly picked him up. Luffy and Usopp carried his upper body and thank god he did. You weren’t expecting him to feel like you were trying to carry a sea cow. Scratch that. It felt like you were trying to carry a sea beast. 

The first steps you took were good, but by the time you started making it up the ramp back into the Merry, you were all struggling not to drop your end. 

“Easy! Easy! Jesus, be careful!”

Nami instructed the boys - mostly Usopp - as they took the last step down onto the bridge. 

“Guys. I don’t know how much longer I’ll be able to hold my end,” Usopp grunted. 

“We are almost there, Usopp. Just hold on.” 

“I’m trying but this guy is really heavy.”

To prove his point, Usopp started shuffling backward quicker than you expected. He shoved his shoulder into the double doors of the galley forcing you all to catch up with him. The movement causes you and Nami to bump into one another as you each hold on to one of his legs. 

“Easy. Don’t drop him!”

“I didn’t. He’s just heavy. I mean, he’s got a really big head. It’s, like, freakishly big.”

“Now is not the time, Usopp,” you grunted as you all moved to set him down on the island. 

“What does that have to do with anything?” 

The question came from Nami as she made her way around the galley’s kitchen. She was searching through cupboards at a furious rate and you didn’t have to ask what it was she was searching for. She’d heard you loud and clear about needing to stop the bleeding. You had some clean linens that were stashed inside your room. You should’ve gone for them, but suddenly, seeing Zoro lifeless on the island of the galley…you couldn’t recall any of your training. 

“Zoro? Hey, can you hear me?”

Luffy’s soft question was drowned out by Usopp asking where the first aid kit was. 

“Why would we need a first aid kit when we have a doctor?” Nami shot back. 

“That’s right. Doc, what are we doing?”

They were looking to you to direct them. You are the doctor. This was your time to shine to be able to prove that you were worth the space Luffy had offered you. So, why couldn’t you move? Your brain was moving at a thousand miles a minute and yet every time it landed on free space it came up empty. If it wasn’t empty, it was screaming that Zoro was dying and you weren’t going to be able to save him. 

Nami returned to the head of Zoro and was holding it in place. You weren’t sure why. The wound was on his chest. Usopp was now thrashing around the room looking for rags. 

“Doc!” 

This time Nami smacked your arm to get your attention. Your feet moved of their own accord to the edge of the island as you reached out and started peeling back the soaked fabric of his shirt. 

There have been times when you were daydreaming in the privacy of your room that you imagined peeling back Zoro’s shirt just like this. To expose the taut muscles underneath. In all of your daydreams, it was never like this. Not like this. 

A sharp hiss of air cut through your teeth as you exposed the large gash to the room. It was approximately two - almost three inches in width. The first and second layer of skin was severed leaving the third exposed and dangerously close to opening it to severe infection. 

“These towels are all I could find. Where’s he bleeding from?”

“Everywhere.”

“Nami, I need you to add pressure with the towels. I have to run to my room and get some supplies.” 

“Ok, but Doc hurry.” 

Asking for speed felt like an understatement. There wasn’t a soul alive inside that ship who didn’t realize that Zoro was beginning to show fewer and fewer signs of breathing. His skin was taking on a grayish tone like a corpse making his green hair look sickly against the grotesque hue. 

You didn’t bother telling her you knew he was dying. You just needed out of that room. 

Your feet carried you out of memory to your room which sat directly across the hall from Zoro. How many times had you gone to go inside your own room and paused, considering knocking on his just to see him leaning against his open door? The thought of never having the chance to make it a reality spurred you inside your room. 

You knew you were going to need thread and a good stitching needle to close the wound. What you really needed was something to fight infection both outwardly and inward. The tonic would have to wait. Without further thought, your hands started going through every jar that held a gathered plant and salves you’d previously made. What you needed was the same Chiterra you’d used on Zeff mere hours ago. It’d been left inside your satchel. 

You ran to its place sat on your bed and upended the bag onto the mattress. Your hands flung everything off until you came to the jade-green bottle and held it up to the light. You didn’t need the sunlight to tell you there wasn’t enough in the bottle. You’d applied most of it on Zeff. 

With a scream, you hurled the bottle against the wall. All that panic was turning to rage and you couldn’t keep it bottled in. You went to grab the things you did have and noticed on the small desk in the corner the snowdrop Zoro had placed behind your ear. 

Suddenly, you were standing back inside that forest. The feeling of his fingertips gliding over your ear as he deposited the flower, hand lingering longer than it should’ve. There was no mistaking the way he looked at you then was the same way he’d looked at you on the deck. The same way he’d looked at you seconds before Mihawk and tried to slice him in half. 

No. Zoro wasn’t going to die today. 

Grabbing what you had, you rushed back out of your room and to the galley. 

“We need to go to the Baratie and ask if they have any supplies.”

“What are you talking about?” Nami asked, flabbergasted. “How do you not have the supplies?”

“I used most of it last night, mending Zeff.” 

“Why the hell were you doing that?!”

“It was to help, Luffy-“You took a deep breath and pressed your hands out, as if it was going to push all the panic you’d pressed down from climbing back up again. “It doesn’t matter now. Luffy, can you go to Baratie?”

“I’m not really hungry right now, Doc.”

“Luffy, no-“ deep breath. Breathe. “I need something that is able to fight an infection. Something we can put on the skin.”

“Right! Right, I can do that!”

Luffy looked over Zoro’s body one last time before he sprinted out of the kitchen. It left the three of you waiting there until he returned but you were done with waiting. You were a doctor and it was about damn time you acted like one. 

If only you could get your hands to stop shaking. 

“Usopp, I need you to take this needle over to the stove and sterilize it for me, please.” 

“I’m on it, Doc.”

“What do you need me to do?”

Nami patiently waited to take whatever direction you would give her. You were sure if you told her to bring you fifty buckets of seawater she would do it without question. 

“Just go back up towards his head and talk to him. I’m going to sew up the wound and, well, it’s not going to feel too great.”

“Okay. I can do that.”

You both went to move around the other to get into position when you lightly grabbed her arm in passing. She turned to you with eyes too wide to be anything else but shocked and you wondered if you mirrored her expression. 

“Thank you for coming back.” 

You weren’t sure why you needed to tell her that, especially at a time like this, but you meant it. No matter what was happening right now, Nami had proven to be the sister you’d never had. Without her here now you might have been lost. 

You let your hand fall away as you came to the side of Zoro and began to unravel the thread. You had most of it unraveled when Usopp showed up beside you and handed over a very sterile needle. You threaded the black thread through the stitching needle and decided to start working on the smallest area. 

Maybe by the time you finished with it the tremors in your hands might have disappeared. 

Luffy arrived back from Baratie with Zeff and Sanji in tow. All three of them walked in just as you finished the last crisscross of stitching on Zoro’s chest. 

“Oy, I was wondering why he was asking for me,” Zeff huffed as he came around the opposite side of the island. “I could’ve sworn you said you were a doctor.”

“I am. I just don’t have anything to put over the wounds to support healing or to keep them from getting infected. I asked Luffy to go in case you did.” 

Sanji set down a basket on the island and you couldn’t keep your brow from quirking up in question. 

“Are we having a picnic?”

“Very cute, smart ass,” Zeff shot back. “Yellowtail skin is known to have enzymes in the skin that staunch the wounds and speed up the healing process.” 

As he explained it all to you, Sanji unrolled a set of very sharp-looking knives and handed the second largest to Zeff. Right after he unrolled the yellowtail from its wrapping and held it out for the older man to take. 

Zeff stroked the fish in appreciation before he began to cut it. Once the head was removed and he sliced it in half, you all watched as he carefully thinly sliced the yellowtail’s skin in sections. Each section of the fish was cut and placed on a plate until the entire fish was flayed. When he finished with the last slice, Zeff motioned for someone to grab the plate as he made his way around to join you on your side of the island.

“It’s my turn to teach you a little something, girl.” 

You wouldn’t deny that you didn’t know about yellowtail skin being able to do any of this. As you watched Zeff carefully layer it over your stitch work, you wondered if Naan was even aware of it. 

“Is he going to be okay?”

Usopp’s question was so soft you wondered if he’d even spoken. His eyes, like the rest of you, all focused on the motionless body of your crew mate. 

“I’m not going to lie to you. He’s lost a lot of blood. I’m sure your doctor can even tell you that. It might be too late for him.”

“But it might not be.” 

Luffy wasn’t going to give up on Zoro. He refused to think of any possibilities where Zoro didn’t wake up. You wish you shared the same belief as him. That Zeff’s words didn’t sit heavily in your thoughts because it was the same one you had.

“He’s got one foot in each world right now, caught between life and death. You have to find a way to keep him tethered to our world. Talk to him. Tell him stories. Sing him sea shanties for all I care. He may not reply, but at least he’ll know his crew is still with him.” 

“That’s ridiculous,” you scoffed. “Singing lovely little tunes isn’t going to save anybody.” 

“It’s not about science or what’s up here,” Zeff replied, a thick finger poking you dead between the eyes. “Sometimes it’s the heart of the matter that saves people.” 

Naan would’ve hollered about Zeff being the biggest idiot she’d ever met if she’d heard one word of that. A part of you wanted to ask if he could tell by the look he gave you. 

“We need to wrap him.”

“God, does that mean we gotta hold him up again?” Usopp whined. 

“Yes,” you shot back. “Usopp it does mean I need you guys to help hold him up.”

“I can help you. If you like.”

Sanji stepped around Zeff to come to your side. All his earlier flirting was replaced by the genuine desire to help. You were sure if Zoro knew Sanji had helped him in any way he would implode, but beggars couldn’t be choosers. 

“Sure. I would appreciate it. Thank you, Sanji.” 

You waited on bated breath to hear a cheesy pick-up line and found yourself coming up empty. You got your wraps ready as you motioned for Sanji to lift him and when you finished, Nami offered to let Zoro stay in her room. You didn’t help carry him inside and figured it was only a few short feet from the galley to her room. 

You needed air. You needed rum. You still needed to go fix up your room. 

The only thing you did was the first on that list. 

You’d found yourself standing on the stern of the ship. Your arms hung over the railing as you took in the endless blue that surrounded you and the last few stragglers of ships remaining from the night before. You tried to let your mind relax by wondering who was on those ships; the stories Usopp could create would either leave you in wonder or hysterics. 

That was what you really wanted. Your best friend to tell you a story as far-fetched as the one you’d all been a part of in less than twenty-four hours. You went to remove yourself from the rail when Luffy appeared beside you. His eyes scanned out over everything before him before he turned to smile at you. 

“Hey, Doc.”

“Hey Luffy. Everything alright?”

He still looked shaken by everything that had happened. The smile he’d tried to plaster on his face while Zoro was still conscious on the dock was replaced now with something you never thought you’d see: fear. 

Monkey D. Luffy was afraid. You wanted to reach out and hug him. To remind him that life came with no playbook and you were all just fumbling around trying to make the best decisions without ever knowing the outcomes. 

“Yeah. No. Maybe Nami was right and I should’ve tried harder to stop Zoro.”

“Luffy, Zoro was always going to do what he wanted. I don’t think you telling him not to do it would’ve mattered. What he wanted to know was that you were in his corner believing he could do it. You did the right thing as a Captain. As a friend.”

As the words left you, you knew every single one of them was true. The stubborn idiot was going to go out and do this duel no matter what. It’s what he’d trained himself to do and why he continued to train. Who were any of you to tell him all of that was for nothing? 

While Luffy listened and filtered your words through his head, you could see the small worry lines that had creased his forehead begin to ease. The darkness behind his eyes lightened just enough that you could feel his sunshine beginning to peek through the storm. 

“I’m always going to be in every one of your corners because you guys are in mine.” 

You tried to give him a weak smile. Something that could equal the one he’d given you. You could feel it falling flat and decided it was safer to look back over the side of the Merry or at your hands. 

It was a mistake. How you’d missed the blood - Zoro’s blood - that had caked on your fingers and between them was beyond you. Instantly, you felt like you needed to bathe. To scrub your skin raw before it leaves a deeper imprint like an unwanted tattoo. 

Luffy must have noticed your panic because he moved closer to you, shoulder to shoulder, and gently reached out to stop you from scratching through your skin. 

“Why are you out here, Doc?”

His question was light. Soft. A whisper that forced you to hang your head before a flood of emotion threatened to burst from the dam in your chest. 

“I should’ve believed in him more, like you do. I should’ve shown him or had more faith in who he is.”

“The Demon Pirate Hunter?”

That did make a snort of a laugh leave you as you looked up at Luffy. 

“Your first mate.”

You were surprised when Luffy suddenly wrapped a long arm around you and pulled you into a tight hug. You thought you were going to have to tap out and tell him it was too much. Damn, could he give a good hug. But you didn’t. You wrapped an arm around his waist and allowed yourself to be consumed for just a little while by sunshine. 

“You did an amazing job today, Doc.” 

You pressed a scoff into his chest before you pushed away and secured yourself back over the railing. 

“That’s really sweet Luffy, but no I didn't. I was sloppy. Unprepared. My response time was shit.” Your delay in helping Zoro could be what cost him his life. You didn’t want to say it out loud. The guilt - shame - of that hard fact sat like stones in your gut. “If Naan were here she’d have my ass.”

“But you saved him.”

Luffy looked so confused and you weren’t sure you wanted to explain it to him. He believed in you more than you believe in yourself. 

“No. All I did was make him comfortable if he died.” 

It felt like you were speaking through molasses. The idea of him dying filled your body with such raw grief it threatened to topple you over. 

“That’s not true.”

It was true, and Naan would’ve used this moment as another one of her hard lessons. One just to prove why getting attached to others was never good for a healer. Everything she’d ever taught you had gone right out the window as you watched Zoro fall. All the training and knowledge wasted as you acted like a lovesick girl and not the one who maybe could’ve saved him if she hadn’t been so lost in her head. 

No. You weren’t who Luffy thought you were or who you’d even thought you were. You should’ve stocked up on ingredients more. Noted all the tools you were missing and got them instead of worrying about a world full of promise and adventure. 

“I’m going to go wash up, Luffy. I’ll see you in a bit.”

“Make sure you stop in to see Zoro, Doc. I know he’d like to hear from you.” 

You didn’t know what to say. Would he want to see someone who selfishly tried to keep him from being who he was? You could still hear the last conversation playing in your head. The way his voice cracked just enough to notice. 

“I’ll be sure to do that.”

You didn’t mean it. You weren’t sure if you could face him but another part of you wondered if the last memory you wanted to carry of him was him lying bleeding on Baratie’s dock. 

The bath had been scolding hot and your skin was still slightly red from how furiously you’d scrubbed it. You’d had no intention of going in to see Zoro. 

Not yet. 

But as you left your room you heard Nami’s voice raise and you bolted toward the sound. What if something was happening to Zoro? Instead of the possibility of you going into doctor mode, you noticed it was yelling of a different kind.

“And I would like it if Zoro wasn’t dying in my bed!”

No! Not dying…

You came shooting around the corner and into the room. Your eyes take in a small-looking Luffy as Nami stands on the opposite side of where Zoro lies. Her eyes were piercing and sharp and full of anger directed solely at your captain. 

“I can’t get in the way of someone’s dream, Nami.”

“What’s going on here?”

Nami’s gaze moved over to you and it made you want to stop in your tracks. It felt like she was almost blaming you for the dying friend in her bed. 

“Nothing. I was just leaving.”

“Again?” 

The word came out before you could stop it. The irritation sparked from her in waves. You hadn’t meant to say it but you were too emotionally exhausted to care. 

“Again?” Luffy asked, visibly lost. 

“It's nothing,” Nami quickly dismissed your words as she set down the book she’d been reading. “Just a slip of the tongue. Right, Doc?”

She wasn’t giving you time to answer her because she wasn’t trying to have more conversation. Not with you and definitely not with Luffy. Somehow, you’d both ended up in the shit yard. 

You turned to watch her retreat and didn’t take one step forward until you were sure she was gone. You reached out to Luffy and touched his arm briefly before you dropped it back down to your side. 

“You okay?”

“Yeah, I just-“ 

He was back to looking lost. His eyes searched for answers ingrained in the wood of the ship and coming up short. He looked up at Zoro still lying motionless in bed and turned in your direction. 

“I’m going to get the Wado Itchy Monkey ready for him when he wakes up.” 

“Itchy monkey?”

“His sword.”

Now this was the Luffy you knew. It wasn’t as cheerful as it should’ve been but you would take this smile over the wounded look any day. 

“Oh, right. The Itchy Monkey.”

You hoped somehow Zoro could hear this and was screaming. 

“Do you want to come with me? I think Sanji is also with Usopp in the galley cooking something. If you want to eat.”

“Maybe later. I need to do an assessment first.”

“Oh, yeah. Let us know how it goes.”

“You got it, Captain.” 

“Why do you call me that?”

“Call you what? 

“Captain. No one else does.”

His question took you back. Was there something else he wanted to be referred to instead of Captain? He’d seemed to make it pretty clear his dream wasn’t just finding the One Piece, but having a crew all his own. 

“Uhm, because you’re my Captain and that is false. Usopp does say it…sometimes. In between calling himself Captain Usopp.” 

You waited to see that infamous smile brighten his face. The one that reminded you of the good that was housed inside him and the painful realization he was still so young. What you got instead was a softer smile, one that still reached his eyes but spoke plainly of gratitude. 

“Make sure that when you’re done you get something to eat. That’s an order.” 

You offered up a mock salute as you replied, “Aye, Captain.” 

It felt ridiculous. It felt silly but it also felt good. Like you weren’t standing in a room where Zoro was slipping in and out of death. Silly like sitting back in a restaurant. All five of you enjoying a meal filled with laughter and teasing conversation. 

With a heavy sigh, you turned to face the unconscious man before you. He looked incredibly peaceful and if you didn’t know any better you would’ve believed he was just sleeping. But his breathing was still too shallow and there wasn’t any eye movement indicative of dreaming or thought. 

He looked like a shell of the man you’d fallen in love with. The color hadn’t returned to his skin and there was a noticeable sheen of sweat to his forehead and upper lip. Gently, you pressed the back of your hand to his forehead and felt the warmth to his skin. 

You figured there would be a fever, but not so soon. You weren’t sure if it was a good or bad sign but you wouldn’t dwell on it. A fever meant he needed medicine, which was your specialty. You set to work pulling what you needed out of your satchel and began to make something to help reduce the fever and hopefully help whatever infection was in his blood. 

After you steeped all the ingredients through the strainer you walked over to Zoro and gently lifted up his head. You had some trouble wiggling the nose of the bottle between his lips when you remembered you still had to contend with his teeth.

“A pain in the ass even while dying,” you groaned.

You placed his head back down against the pillow and quickly ran through your options. You tried to prop him up as much as you could before you placed your hand on his chin and applied a small amount of pressure until you felt his jaw begin to open. Finally, you were able to deposit some of the medicine between his lips. Your hands gently coax his throat to swallow by running your fingers against the skin. 

Once it was done you placed the jar behind you on Nami’s dresser and went to get a cool washcloth. You weren’t sure if you were going to stay until you started wiping the sweat from his brow. 

You found yourself sitting in the chair Nami no doubt abandoned and the book she’d been reading to him. The tale of Noland. The liar. A man who claimed to have seen something and there was never any proof. 

Liar. That’s what stuck out to you the most. 

You’d been staring at the cloth in your hands, fingers picking at the fraying pieces unable to look at him. Not until now. 

You weren’t sure why you felt so unsure of whether you should be there. If you should bother staying. The last time you’d spoken he’d made it clear what he thought of you and yet…

Reaching out you took hold of his hand for the first time. It felt wrong doing it like this but what were the chances of you being able to do it again? Your thumb moved slowly over his knuckles as if trying to outline each one perfectly to memory. 

“How are you supposed to train me to kick your ass if you don’t wake up?”

Zoro didn’t show any signs of stirring at your words. You expected him to turn his head at any minute. His eyes flew open in horror at the idea of you ever kicking his ass. You could practically hear all the remarks he’d make. 

“The day you ever kicked my ass is the day hell freezes over.”

“It’ll take a miracle for you to even get close.”

But they were the only ones that you heard in your head. Figments of previous conversations warped to fit the crazy narrative that he would be able to answer you back. 

“You know, if Naan could’ve seen how I acted today she would’ve killed me.”

An empty laugh left you as you looked up at his face. There wasn’t the usual dart of a raised brow in teasing. No hard stare that made you feel like he was silently yelling at you for getting on his nerves. 

“She would’ve been disappointed. She taught me over the years that a doctor who can’t think on their feet at lightning speed is useless. A doctor who got emotionally attached to their patients was equally as useless.” You tore your eyes away from him to look at the safety of your lap. Unable to look at him as you spoke, “I was useless at being able to help you when it mattered.”

The sob you’d been struggling to hold back erupted in a burst that forced you to cover it with your hand. You couldn’t let anyone else hear you as you shattered. 

“Maybe that was my final lesson from her. To prove that caring for all of you the way I do is only going to harm you later.”

What good was having a doctor who was only going to fail them later? But Zoro still being alive proved that it wasn’t just medicine that kept people going, but their own desire to live. That was all you wanted. You didn’t need him to wake up and proclaim his undying devotion to you. Even if he woke up still hating you, you would accept it. Anything was good enough for you if it meant you’d get to see him smile one last time. 

Walking into the galley you expected it to be either quiet or at least filled with light conversation. Maybe even a couple of gloomy faces. 

What you hadn’t expected? For it to smell like Baratie inside the tiny space, and to find the reason for the smell to be Sanji talking away with Luffy and Usopp while he cooked. 

“It smells like heaven in here,” you mused, taking in a deep inhale of all the aromas floating inside the kitchen. 

Usopp was leaning against the island - in the same exact spot Zoro had been in mere hours ago. His blood still stained part of the wood. You couldn’t bring yourself to go near it. So, you made your way around it completely and over to sit with Luffy. Who was currently cleaning the Wado Ichimonji for Zoro just like he said he would. 

Everywhere you looked Zoro’s presence was a constant reminder. A ghost haunting you that you hadn’t signed up for. 

“If this is heaven then in walked an Angel.”

Instantly, all your sadness was quickly replaced with irritation - and relief. 

“It’s a little too early to be flirting, isn’t it?”

“Nah. It’s never too early to let a beautiful woman know just how breathtaking she is.” 

“Ugh, I wouldn’t let Zoro hear you talk to Doc like that,” Usopp chuckled nervously. “I think he’d probably implode.” 

“I’m sorry. Who?” 

Sanji either must have had the worst memory you’d encountered in a while or he was playing dumb for the hell of it. Usopp took a bit of the apple he’d grabbed from the fruit bowl. He held up a finger letting Sanji know he needed to wait while he chewed before he spoke. 

“Green-haired guy. Three swords.”

“The one from this morning?”

“Yeah, that’s the one.”

Sanji cocked his head to the side as if he was questioning if Usopp was telling him a joke and he’d missed the punchline. He was in the middle of folding something in the middle of what looked like dough and you were tempted to interrupt their small discussion about your nonexistent love life to see what it was. 

“I think I’ll take my chances.”

Sanji smiled warmly at Usopp and sent another eye twitch in your direction. 

This guy was going to give you trouble. 

You watched as Luffy softly ran one of Zoro’s clothes over the sheath of the blade. He was taking his time and made sure he didn’t miss a single part. He was dedicated to making sure Zoro knew his things were safe here, with all of you, on the Merry. That he was a captain who would do what was necessary for the things you all loved and held valuable. 

“So, how did he look, Doc?”

Luffy’s question tore your eyes away from watching him do another round of polishing. He hadn’t looked at you yet, but you knew the minute you started talking he would give you his undivided attention. 

“He’s doing okay. No real change in vital signs. A slight infection has set in and gave him a fever. I made some medicine to give him every few hours just to make sure it’s nothing major.” 

Luffy placed a hand on your shoulder and gave you a light shake. A smile graced his lips as he replied, “The best doctor in all of the East Blue and soon, the Grand Line!”

You wish you could smile back brighter or maybe with something that looks genuine. Instead, a grimace meant to resemble a smile graced your lips. 

“I don’t know about the best doctor. I had no idea yellowtail skin had so many wonderful properties in them.”

“I don’t think any of us did, honestly,” Sanji offered. 

“It makes me wonder if Naan even knew about it.”

“What? You mean the resident doctor in your village never used the wonder that is yellowtail.”

“I think if you told Naan to go fishing for an ingredient you’d end up fishing your teeth off the floor.” 

“Oooh,” Sanji chuckled. “Is she really that bad?”

“Worse,” Usopp interjected. “Naan isn’t really known for taking new age information or techniques very well.”

“Hey,” you interject with a pout. 

“You know it’s true. She follows what her mother taught her religiously and makes Doc follow it too. I’m not saying she’s not a great doctor just…really old school.”

“I mean, she is old, Usopp,” you deadpanned. 

“You know what I meant.” 

“You two seem to know each other pretty well.”

Sanji was keeping himself busy still with scooping batter into a piping bag. You were so tempted to ask him what the hell he was making and how soon would you be able to get any of it. His statement was said with an inviting smile and a look of interest in his eyes as he looked between you and Usopp. 

“Doc and I go way back. She was literally, like, my only friend in the village we grew up in.”

“That is not true. You had Kaya. I had you and Naan and that was about it.”

“I’m sure a beautiful woman such as yourself has plenty of friends and admirers.”

God, please make him stop calling you beautiful. 

“Well, you’re wrong. No one in the village liked me.”

“They were actually scared of her.”

You loved how casually Usopp could just drop information without a care in the world. He was always like that since you were kids. You figured it must have been part of his ability to weave stories so intricately. Sprinkle truth throughout the lie and no one was sure what part was real and what wasn’t. The only problem here? He didn’t follow it up with anything else but the truth. 

“Usopp!” You shot out in a groan. 

He’d taken a bit of the apple again so all you got in response was a shoulder shrug. 

“Why would villagers be scared of you?” 

It wasn’t hard to miss the disbelief in Luffy’s voice or the small chuckle that clung to the back of each word. 

“Because-“ 

“Because she just showed up out of thin air on the island.” Usopp interrupted trying to swallow the remaining apple pieces in his throat. “No parents. No nothing. They all thought that a Siren or something dropped her off on the shores. All the villagers thought she was a bad omen.”

“Oh my god, Usopp! I’m like right here I can tell it and, by the way, you are the reason why everyone thought I came as a curse from the ocean and that my mom was a Siren!”

“I was trying to help you. It got Johnny Fittsmore to stop cutting pieces of your hair, didn’t it!”

“Wow. Okay.” Sanji mumbled. “Weren’t kidding on the friend's part.”

“Why was he cutting pieces of your hair?”

You weren’t surprised Luffy was confused. He was kind-hearted, and would probably never grasp the concept of people choosing to be mean. 

“I just showed up on the beach aboard a small lifeboat. Naan said she could hear my cries from her house.”

“Cries? As in a baby?” 

Sanji stopped all he was doing to rest his hands on the counter. His broad shoulders hunched forward as he looked at you through a small window of hair. He looked visibly upset and the last thing you needed was the new guy to think you were broken.

“I don’t know if I was a baby. I just know I was small and Naan decided not to let the birds eat me.” 

“No parents?”

“I mean, does anyone really have parents at this point?”

Usopp’s mom unfortunately passed away while you were both young. He’d never met his dad, Yasopp, wherever that no good baby daddy of a pirate was and basically had Usopp chasing after shadows in hopes he would ever return. Luffy seemed to only have a crazy stalker grandpa and that left Nami and Zoro with the chance of having actual functioning parental units somewhere.

“The lucky ones do.”

Sanji’s reply was delicate, like his smile, as if he said it too loud it would spook you. 

“I guess that makes us an unlucky bunch of misfits,” you replied. 

“I think we’re pretty lucky,” Luffy interjected. “We all found each other.” 

You were not going to cry. 

In the few hours this all happened,  you couldn’t remember the last time you smiled and meant it. A handful of those times had been with Luffy and, just like the times before, you could feel your own smile curving your lips. A real one. 

“I could drink to that.”

“Funny you mention a drink,” Sanji began as he placed something in the oven. “But I think you still owe me one.”

You got up from your seat and made your way over to stand next to the sink. Your eyes watched as Sanji did, in fact, have a bottle waiting in the basket he’d brought back from Baratie. 

“You always carry a bottle around with you?”

“Only when I get the chance to share a drink with a talented woman, such as yourself.” 

“Do any of these lines usually work on women?”

A full-throated laugh left him as he grabbed two glasses and began to pour the drinks. You would never say it out loud, not even if someone threatened to cut a limb off, but you enjoyed Sanji’s company. He didn’t take himself too seriously, except for his cooking. 

He let you tease him and took everything you served in stride. Although…you did miss the way Zoro always seemed to have something equally sharp to send back your way. Sanji just liked being in the company of others, especially if that company happened to be the opposite sex. 

“Sometimes,” he answered honestly. “It’s usually my charm and not my words that do it.”

“I can see that.”

He was charming. He was handsome. There wasn’t a point in denying facts just because your cup of tea was currently brewing on life support in the back. Sanji handed you your glass and lifted his up in a toast. 

“To the first drink and, hopefully, to many more.” 

You moved your glass to meet his and a light clink filled the space between you. You brought the glass to your lips and swallowed the liquid in a few gulps. As you set your glass back on the island you could hear a soft chuckle from Usopp coming from behind you. When you turned to look at him he was grinning from ear to ear. 

“What?”

“Zoro is going to be so pissed when he gets up.” 

You were about to tell him to shut up and remind him you were both very much single and in no way romantically involved. Even if you might have wanted that to happen, Zoro made it clear it wasn’t what he wanted. 

You started to open your mouth when Nami came crashing in through the galley’s doors. 

“Luffy! Luffy! The Arlong Pirates are at Baratie. We have to leave now.”

“What? Why? Why should we leave?”

“Because they are looking for you!”

“Just fucking great,” you sighed as you grabbed the bottle Sanji had left on the table.

Her last words were directed at Luffy. Of course, someone was here for Luffy. When wasn’t someone here for him? Stalker grandpa. Stalker grandpa’s war dog. Now another pirate who may or may not be working with stalker Grandpa. 

“Me?”

Luffy seemed as surprised as the rest of you. A finger pointing at himself just to make sure we were all physically sure it was, in fact, him.

“And the map. Those fishmen will tear this place apart if Zeff doesn’t turn him over.”

In a flash, all the joking and light conversation disappeared. One minute Sanji was beside you and then he was bounding around the island to get to his coat. 

“Where are you going?”

“If Baratie‘s in danger, I need to be there.”

You knew what was going to happen before Luffy even spoke. The goodness that was the core of who Luffy was would never abandon people to possible pain and suffering. It wasn’t in whatever strange and stretchy DNA that made up who he was. It was why you’d joined him and why you would continue to be aboard this ship until he no longer wanted you there. 

“Alright, I’m coming with you.” 

“Did you not hear what I just said? They are hunting you. We need to run.”

“I’m with Nami on this one. I’m really not trying to ruffle any feathers or scales.”

“Usopp. There are innocent people inside that place.

“How do you know that, Doc? It’s a restaurant that serves pirates!”

“Usopp - we,” you indicated between the two of you, “are pirates.” 

“Oh, yeah. That’s a solid point, but still-“

“I’m not running,” Luffy cut in. “We’re going to protect this place.”

“This isn’t your fight. Why would you do that?”

You could feel yourself waiting for the answer - for Sanji to experience the man that was Monkey D. Luffy. With a kind smile, he simply replied, “You fed us.”

Kindness for a kindness. 

“Look, I know this crew. Their captain, Arlong, has the highest bounty in all of the East Blue. You do not want to mess with him.”

“It sounds like he messed with us first.”

“Luffy, please. Please.”

“Nami. What are you so afraid of?”

You weren’t sure what possessed you to say it or why you moved towards her. It didn’t matter if she tried to deny it or cover it up with anger this time. You’d seen her and the fear that rolled off her like a sickness appeared to cripple her. 

“What do I have to be afraid of? You are all going to rush in there and get yourselves killed!”

“Nami,” Luffy said, “I can’t let innocent people get hurt because of me. If those fishmen guys want a fight, we’re gonna give them one.” He looked between Nami and you and walked over to her. A solid hand cupping her shoulder. “You two stay back with the ship and protect the map. Hmm.”

“Fuck that!” 

You stepped forward to the other side of him forcing him to turn from Nami to face you. 

“I’m going with you.”

“Doc, it’s safer-“

“I don’t care. You’re down a man right now and, no offense Usopp, he isn’t the greatest choice for backup.”

“Hey! I’m taking all the offense!”

“Take it all I don’t care. Luffy, I may not be a three-sword-wielding badass but I can help you. Let me help you. Please.”

Luffy regarded you for one long moment before he slowly nodded. 

“You can’t be serious?”

Nami regarded you like you’d gone insane. Maybe you had. You weren’t a soldier. You didn’t know much about fighting besides when you punched Isaki Quade in the nose in the lemon grove. 

“I’m going with him, Nami.”

“It’s going to be alright, Nami,” Luffy interjected. “The ship and the map will be safe with you.”

With that, Luffy turns on his heel and heads for the door. As you walked past the island you reached up and removed a pot from the upper rack. If Zoro could see you now, you could already hear what he would say in your head. 

Seriously? You’re bringing the pot with you? 

“What’s with the pot?” Sanji asked. 

You twirled it around in your hand as you both tried to keep pace with Luffy’s quick steps. 

“It’s my weapon of choice.”

Sanji still looked confused but you didn’t have time to explain. Luffy was already up and over the side of the Merry and walking towards the deck. If you didn’t catch up fast he would be inside Baratie before you even made it to the door. 

“This is a bad idea. Such a bad idea.”

You knew Usopp was trying to whisper it to himself. He’d always been one to talk his thoughts out when he wasn’t even trying. You tried to soothe him as you passed through the door into Baratie with a pat on his back, and instead, he nearly became one with the ceiling. 

“We are going to be okay, Usopp.”

“You shouldn’t even be here, Doc,” he snapped back. “You are the ship's doctor. What happens if we get injured and so do you?”

“The good news is in that scenario I’m just injured - not dead. So, I can still patch you guys up.”

“That doesn’t make me feel the least bit better.”

If the mood wasn’t so serious you would’ve laughed. The moment felt like you were back in Syrup village with Usopp rambling on and on about if he should or shouldn’t tell Kaya he was in love with her. No matter what you told him, his head would still worry. It was his nature. 

Everything froze in time, however, when Luffy pushed open the double doors and stepped inside the eerily quiet dining room. 

“Who here is Arlong?”

That was one way to make an entrance. 

“That would be me.”

A deep voice boomed from below you and when you looked over the railing, immediately you wished you’d stayed on the ship. He was holding an older man by the collar, sharp teeth exposed at his throat. You suddenly wished Zoro was here. 

“My name is Monkey D. Luffy and I hear you're looking for me.”

“Why, yes I am.”

You had to hand it to Luffy. Arlong looked terrifying to look at and overly confident. Luffy didn’t seem the least bit phased by any of it as he led you all down the stairs. 

“So, this is the pirate I’ve heard so much about? You know? I was expecting someone…bigger.”

“So was I.” 

If you weren’t so fucking terrified you would’ve laughed. At least Luffy was able to smile for the both of you, because the minute eyes darker than the trenches of the ocean peered up at all of you ready to rip out your throats you swear you felt your soul exit stage left. 

“Do you know who I am, boy? I’m Arlong the Saw. Even the Marines flee before my flag.”

“Not ringing a bell. How’s you find me anyway?”

A sickening chuckle that reminded you of gills taking in water filled the room. 

“An old friend helped me track you down.” 

He clicked his tongue right after he finished, and you hated the fact that you jumped. You hated it even more when Sanji moved to stand just a little in front of you to protect you. 

In all of a second, the dirty blonde-haired fishmen reached into a black bag and took out a- 

“Is that a fucking clown head?!” 

You wanted to scream but swallowed it down as it started talking and- oh god moving. The neck area actually wiggled as he shouted, “Heya, Straw Hat. Did you miss me?”

“Burpy? What are you doing here?”

“Believe me, it wasn’t my first choice either. But these fine fishy folk persuaded me to point them in the right direction, which ain’t easy when you don’t have any hands.” 

He let out a laugh like this was like any other day. All completely normal. 

“How’d you even know how to find me?”

“I told you. I’ve got eyes and ears everywhere.”

To prove his point, you watched in horror as an ear fluttered its way out of Luffy’s hat and back to attach itself to Burpy’s head. 

“What is happening right now?” 

Your whisper was aggressive and you weren’t even sure why you were even asking Usopp or Sanji like they even knew. It just made you feel a bit better when all three of you looked at each other equally disturbed. 

Luffy, as usual, looked less shocked about the ear in his hat and more that he’d been listening. 

“You were listening all along? You heard everything?”

“Everything. And that got old quick, ‘cause you shidiots have no idea what you are doing. By the way, Doc, it's so nice to finally meet you. You’re equally as delicious as Dreamsicle. Wherever she is. Hey, Lips!”

Burpy turned to yell at the fishmen who did have rather large lips to scratch his ear. You were still stuck on the fact a clown head was trying to hit on you. 

Maybe you should’ve just stayed with Nami on the boat. 

The fishmen denied him his apparent scratch and Burpy went into full shriek mode. You instantly winced at the sound and tried not to cover your ears as his head was shoved back inside the black bag. 

“Listen here. I want my map and half of whatever you plunder as tribute. And if you bow down to me, I might even let you serve in my kingdom.”

Arlong was walking slowly towards you - towards Luffy. You weren’t sure if while he talked he was smiling or snarling. 

“I don’t bow down to any man.”

“I’m no man.”

“Or fish,” Luffy corrected. “You’re no king.”

“I will be when I get my Grand Line map.”

“Then…” Luffy placed his hat back on his head and you already knew what was coming. “You’re going to have to fight me for it.”

Shit. 

Suddenly, coming in with a fucking cooking pot felt ridiculous, but you were gripping it tightly all the same. 

“Then let the fighting begin.” 

Right as Arlong smacked his fist into his hand, the sound of a gunshot went off and your eyes traveled up to see a rather large Chef’s hat in the middle of the room. Attached to that hat was Zeff who held a small muscat in his hand. 

The other fishman who sat at the table with Blondie immediately got up and kicked the wood of Zeff’s wooden leg. It broke without pause and sent the older man tumbling to the floor. When he looked up, the Fishman kicked him hard and sent him flying back through three tables. 

“Zeff!”

Sanji’s voice was filled with so much pain your chest aches but it was also thundering to life with adrenaline. How the fuck did you think a pot was going to help at all against them? You could hear Zoro chastising you, calling you a dumbass and you swiftly pushed it away. Now was not the time to talk to imaginary Zoro. 

Sanji ran down the stairs and kicked Blondie away and used the momentum to land on their table. He spun off and kicked the Fishman who’d hurt Zeff. 

“Usopp!”

He ran past you and shrank down small to get under the table. No one else saw him do it. They were too busy watching Sanji as he took on the fishman. 

“Usopp, get bac-“

You moved down the stairs to get him and were greeted with Sanji’s body landing on the exact table. It tipped over instantly and exposed Usopp underneath. He immediately clamored out from underneath it. 

“Get the people out of here! Get them out now!” 

You rushed down what was left of the stairs as Luffy started shouting out his gum-gum pistol. You could hear his body stretching impossibly far back, but you were busy trying to get to Sanji. He was choking on the air trapped in his lungs and your body was seized in terror that he may have a punctured lung. 

“Sanji,” you asked, placing a hand on his face to bring him to focus on your face and the other gently on his side. “Are you alright? Does anything feel broken?”

“Just…my pride,” he wheezed back. 

You ignored the fact he’d placed his hand over yours and lightly began to move him towards Usopp who was now on the other stairs. You looked back and saw Arlong toss Luffy violently against the pillar. 

“Get up!”

“Luffy!”

You tried to move down off the stairs and felt Sanji grip you tightly around your waist to keep you there with him and Usopp. He kept throwing punch after punch and Arlong took them all with stride. Luffy wasn’t making a dent and to Arlong this was just a game. 

Luffy tried to swing on him one last time and Arlong caught it. He tried to swing again to make Arlong let him go, and he easily caught that one. With both fists in his hands, he used them to pull Luffy to him. 

You tried to wiggle free but Sanji held on tight and the feeling of Usopp’s hand on your shoulder joined in. Luffy looked so scared; so angry as Arlong told him something through sharpened teeth. One minute they were there and the next Arlong flung him up into the foray. 

“Luffy!”

This time you did scream as Arlong took the stairs to reach him. The continued sounds of a body being thrown through stained glass windows. 

“Doc, I know you want to go to him but you can’t! It isn’t safe.”

“Fuck that I can’t just let him die!”

You were nearing hysterics. Why couldn’t they remember that Luffy was a Devil Fruit eater? That outside was miles and miles of ocean and Arlong knew it. All it would take is one splash, and one toss, and Luffy would be defenseless. All it would take is him falling over the dock and he would drown. 

“He isn’t going to die!”

“Usopp, he ate a Devil fruit! Mother Ocean turns her back on those who do and what is outside with them?” 

You needed them to understand that it wasn’t because you wanted to be a hero. You weren’t that kind of person. You just wanted to save the life of your Captain. 

You refused to lose two people on the same day. 

“Oh, shit,” Usopp mumbled and you felt your head shaking along with it. 

“Yes! Shit. I need to make sure he’s okay. Please.” 

Sanji looked from Usopp and back to you. Blue eyes desperately searching your face to come up with a reason to tell you no. Finally, he released the hold he kept on your waist and nodded up the stairs. 

“Go check on our Captain.” 

You mouthed the words thank you as you bolted up the stairs. You took them two at a time and rounded the broken foray doors to see the sunlight coming from outside. That door too had been completely smashed open with Luffy’s body. 

The adrenaline in your veins screamed at you to move faster; be quicker. Your feet thundering onto the dock just in time to see Arlong holding Luffy up over the edge of the dock and…was that Nami?

“Nami!” You called out to her. “What are you doing?”

“Doc! Stay back!” 

Each word that left Luffy came out choked and ragged. His hands weakly clamored at the grip Arlong had on his throat. Your eyes didn’t know where to look. Luffy who was in danger or Nami who…had a suspicious-looking tattoo that looked like Arlong in tattoo form and the Grand Line map in hand. 

“What is going on?”

“A business transaction, girl,” Arlong chuckled. “Don’t be a pest and interrupt.” 

“I wasn’t talking to you, asshole,” you snapped. You should’ve cared when the smile left his face. When he looked like he would throw you into the ocean along with Luffy. “Nami. I asked you a question.” 

She turned on you then. Her whole body facing you as she gave you a shrug and a look so icy it could’ve frozen hell slid across her face. For all her show of hatred, however, she couldn’t hollow out the heartbreak in her eyes. Nami didn’t want you to hate her but she would make you, and you wanted to know why. 

“What is it that you aren’t comprehending, Doc? I was sent to steal the map and bring it back to him. I’ve been a part of Arlong’s crew this whole time. I played you.” 

You didn’t believe her for one second. Your friendship isn't something that could be faked. The way she cared and pleaded with Zoro to not fight Mihawk. She’d even pleaded with Luffy to run while Arlong was here and maybe…maybe it’s because she was running too. 

“I don’t believe you-“

“Believe whatever you want. It’s not going to make a difference or make any of this less real,” she snapped. 

She dismissed you by completely turning away from you and headed towards a Jolly Roger that held the same emblem as her tattoo. Arlong went to bite at Luffy’s neck and Nami called to him. 

“Why waste your time killing a Devil Fruit eater when the sea can do it for you.” 

No! “No!” 

This time when the fear threatens to freeze you in place and to keep you from making that critical step forward, you don't hesitate to burst into a full sprint. Your words leave you in a rush. 

“I’m a doctor! Do you hear me Arlong!? I’m a doctor.”

“Doc, no-“ 

“What good is a human doctor to me?” Arlong snarled in response. 

You could hear the sound of his fingers releasing Luffy. The sound of his body edging closer to the lip of the ocean. 

“Columnaria! Fish rot. I can cure it.”

That caused him to pause - for everyone to pause. 

“How? You’re a human.”

“We had fishmen who served one of the wealthy businessmen where I lived. They would get sick and Naan- the healer would have to treat them. She taught me how.”

Cautiously you moved towards him with your hands up. If he did decide to not take you up on your offer and drop Luffy into the ocean you wanted to be close enough to jump in. 

“I can treat any of your fishmen who are sick with it. I can teach you how to care for it yourself. But if you drop him into the ocean you’ll get nothing.” 

It was easy to see how much Arlong hated that you knew how to cure a disease that killed fishmen like wildfire. A human. You bargained his men’s life for the life of your Captain and that seemed fair. 

“Don’t do this, Doc.” 

“I’m sorry, Luffy. I have to.”

You couldn’t shake the feeling that you’d failed Zoro somehow. You wouldn’t fail Luffy too. 

Arlong took all of a second to consider your offer. He showed you he accepted it by dropping a very weak Luffy back onto the safety of the dock. 

“I accept your bargain, human. Welcome to the Arlong Pirates.”

_________

As always, thank you so much for reading. Comments and reblogs are always welcome.

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[sanjisock]

more than words

50 words; 50 sentences

ao3

#01 - Motion

A spinning kick, a swing of blade — the two meet and hit but don’t hurt, and Nami sighs exasperatedly at such a pathetic display of a mating dance.

#02 - Cool

Zoro stands his ground as his enemy — finally, finally — falls unceremoniously on his back, unconscious, and Sanji thinks for a moment that the sight of Zoro — wild and victorious and ready to take on the world — looks kind of, maybe, slightly cool.

  #03 - Young

Brook sees the two — dying to die for each other, the weight of their friends’ lives pulling down their shoulders — and he thinks too many people forget how young they still are.

  #04 - Last

The Cook is the last person Zoro would consider lending a hand in a fight — “who would want to work together with that dumbass anyway,” he lies whenever anyone asks, and doesn’t admit that it’s because he trusts Sanji’s ability to stand his ground, wholly and fully.

  #05 - Wrong

Sanji knows Zoro, like him, understands better than most — that this nakama thing isn’t just something you’d die for, but something you’d kill for, too.

  #06 - Gentle

Sanji manages to catch Kitetsu before it rolls off from the deck during a storm, and in that moment, Zoro knows, from the reverent way he regards the swords in his hands, that this isn’t the first time the Cook has wielded one.

  #07 - One

“Calm down, Marimo,” Sanji says with a dismissive wave of his hand when Zoro asks about the sword a few days later, “I’m not about to take your place as the ship’s swordsman; a cook doesn’t use his hands to fight, and I had a terrible teacher anyways.”

  #08 - Thousand

“I’m worth two thousand men,” Zoro grumpily says, almost sulking, and Nami can’t resist patting his head like she would to a little boy pulling the pigtail of a girl he has a crush on.

  #09 - King

You’re like the prince of Dumbass Kingdom, Zoro says, and it takes Sanji everything in him not to blurt out, Dumbass Kingdom sounds about right; wait ‘till you see the fucking king.

  #10 - Learn

Watching Sanji converse fluently with a couple of tourists in a Northern language, Zoro wonders when he will ever stop learning something new about Sanji — or if he ever will, at all.

  #11 - Blur

When Zoro finally comes to, the wounds from Bartholomeow Kuma is muted by Chopper’s medicine, a dull throb at the back of his consciousness; but the sharp pain against his heart feels raw still, visceral and razor-sharp, tucked alongside the ache of Sanji’s sacrifice.

#12 - Wait

“Wait,” he manages to croak out before Sanji flees the room, the word spilling out unbidden; he isn’t quite sure why, but he knows that he wants the Cook to stay.

  #13 - Change

“Have some fucking decency ,” Sanji yells, throwing a shirt at Zoro’s direction; the brute has been walking around the ship bare-chested like an eyesore ever since they entered the summer island, and Sanji is just trying to do everyone a favor — and definitely not because there’s a different kind of heat pooling at the pit of his stomach.

#14 - Command

Robin watches the two in amusement — Zoro could have easily refused to be Sanji’s pack mule, and she can hear him grumbling about it still; and yet, here they are, once again, together at the island’s marketplace.

#15 - Hold

Sanji is rough around the edges, bristling at the slightest touch; Zoro knows he needs to be gentle, but he doesn’t quite remember the last time he held something that isn’t a hilt of a sword, without meaning to hurt . It’s a learning curve. 

  #16 - Need

Sanji knows Zoro is a dumbass, but it takes a special kind of stupid to think he would never be good enough for Sanji, when he’s all that Sanji has ever needed.

#17 - Vision

Zoro never regrets losing his eye, but he wishes, sometimes, he could still take in the sight of Sanji with an unimpaired vision, just to see more of him.

  #18 - Attention

“You’re starting a fight, Marimo?” Sanji growls, voice low and dangerous, and Zoro thinks, yes, yes, anything to get you to look at me.

  #19 - Soul

He loves the kid like a brother, but sometimes Zoro hates how Luffy can easily see past his gruff words and feigned ignorance; the way Luffy only needs to take one look at him to guess, “you’re worried about Sanji, aren’t you?”

  #20 - Picture

He carries around everyone’s bounty posters, Sanji tells himself, and tries not to think too hard about how the only one he kept in his breast pocket is Zoro’s, folded neatly against his heart.

  #21 - Fool

“This is the dumbest thing you’ve ever done so far,” Sanji says when they part, lips still tingling from their earlier kiss, because Zoro’s love is fierce and consuming and Sanji knows, ever since he was just a kid with the iron mask, that he doesn’t deserve any of this.

  #22 - Mad

“Don’t you ever say that kind of shit again,” Zoro snarls, slamming the wall beside Sanji’s head, his voice trembling with a kind of anger Sanji has never seen him with before — frustrated, desperate. “You’re important to me, Cook.” 

  #23 - Child

Grow up and cast your dreams away, Sanji tells himself every day, the voice ringing in his ears; you stopped being a child deserving of a dream the moment you chained Zeff down to the ground.

  #24 - Now

Grow up and cast your dreams away, Sanji wants to tell himself, but the voice stutters, drowned out by the sight of the kid bleeding on the deck of Baratie — he’s a swordsman, too, acknowledged by none other than Dracule Mihawk himself — but a kid still, throwing himself headfirst towards the case of his dreams, steps unweighted by regrets.

  #25 - Shadow

Zoro doesn’t know which is worse — Sanji, forever running away from the shadow his brothers cast; or Zoro, chasing after someone who is no longer around to leave behind a shadow anymore.

  #26 - Goodbye

After Whole Cake Island, there’s a period of time where Zoro would follow Sanji around the ship like a lost puppy, unwilling to let the Cook out of his sight; Usopp definitely didn’t expect Zoro to have such a cute side, and crouches over his new invention to hide his smile.

  #27 - Hide

“We’re not doing that here,” Sanji hisses, and forces himself not to laugh at the pout on Zoro’s face; the galley might be secluded enough, but they’re still on the enemy ship’s galley.

  #28 - Fortune

It is annoying, the way Sanji keeps reminding Zoro that he could have collected Mihawk’s bounty and lived the rest of his life in wealth; especially when Zoro would trade any riches in the world just to stay by the Cook’s side.

  #29 - Safe

It catches Zoro off guard when Sanji starts talking about his mother; it’s a short anecdote, a single happy memory, but Zoro can tell by the way Sanji tells it — guarded and hesitant, like he wants to keep the words close and safe — that he has never shared it with anyone else before.

  #30 - Ghost

Usopp starts shaking like a leaf as soon as they enter the abandoned, dilapidated house, and Sanji gently tells him, sometimes the worst ghost is the one you create yourself; Zoro feels the weight of Wado on his hip, and agrees.

  #31 - Book

“I don’t need this,” Zoro grumbles with a blush, pushing the book back into Nami’s hands, trying hard to ignore Nami’s laughter and the words ROMANCE FOR DUMMIES emblazoned on the book’s jacket.

  #32 - Eye

Shusui sinks into the man’s stomach, all the way to the hilt, and Zoro thinks of the way Sanji curled into himself as the man landed a lucky hit on the cook’s hand. An eye for an eye.

  #33 - Never

“This is my first time,” Zoro whispers, head ducking away as he feels his face flush at the admission; but Sanji’s hand rests on his cheek, encouraging, and he can feel the curve of Sanji’s smile as their lips meet and Sanji replies, “it’s mine, too.”

  #34 - Sing

Luffy cheers when Zoro and Sanji comes into view, and he lets them take on the next batch of enemies; a good fight is always fun, but watching Zoro and Sanji fight is even more so — like watching a dance that only those two know the melody to.

  #35 - Sudden

“What, are we supposed to be surprised?” Nami says, barely looking up from the map she’s working on; Sanji sputters, face redder than the tomatoes he served during breakfast, and Nami feels almost bad for him.

  #36 - Stop

“But we — Zoro and I — how did you know?” Sanji asks, and promptly stops asking questions when he realizes the rest of the crew aren’t surprised either; who could blame them, when his and Zoro’s sexual tension can be seen from a mile away.

  #37 - Time

Sanji knows they have to break apart soon, just to breathe, but right now all he cares about is to taste as much of Zoro as possible — he has waited two years for this, and it has been two years too long.

  #38 - Wash

They have their fair share of fighting — and how, considering the amount of repairs Usopp has to do for Merry just from their petty fights alone — but what the crew doesn’t know is that they also have this thing, this quiet thing, just him and the Cook and a stack of dirty plates between them.

  #39 - Torn

“In retrospect,” Robin observes, “dressing up our dear cook in a maid uniform would not only lower the enemy’s firepower, but also ours, considering how distracted our swordsman has clearly become.”

  #40 - History

“Why do you keep him around, mister?” The kid asks, pointing at the old swordsman with three swords and an eye scar by the peer; Sanji laughs, pats the kid on the head, and says, almost wistfully — “you can say we have some history.”

  #41 - Power

Sanji tugs at Zoro’s sleeve, and Zoro follows suit despite his complaints — Sanji thinks, distantly, how much of an honor it is, to have so much control over such a powerful man.

  #42 - Bother

“I didn’t have enough time to make this three-tier ice cream cake for our lovely Nami-san and Robin-chan because you distracted me!” Sanji says with a hard jab of a finger against Zoro’s chest, and Zoro thinks, good .

  #43 - God

Zoro does not believe in gods, but there’s a hymn of a noise when Zoro presses his lips against the crook of Sanji’s neck, the hallelujah of the world breaking apart as their bodies move together, and he thinks, close enough .

  #44 - Wall

 Zoro slams his fist into the wall of Polar Tang, and is taken aback by the depth of his own frustration; he knows Luffy and the others will get Sanji back from Big Mom’s place, but it unsettles him still, the way Sanji hides himself under layers of pretenses when Zoro has bared so much of himself to the Cook in return.

  #45 - Naked

“What the fuck was that for , Mosshead?!” Sanji shrieks, justifiably furious, leg raised and on fire after Zoro sliced his tray into two without preamble; Zoro can’t exactly tell the Cook he did it because he was too surprised at the sight of Sanji in a swimming trunk and nothing else.

  #46 - Drive

Why Zoro , people sometimes ask, but the answer is easy to Sanji — nobody drives him crazy the way Zoro does, and is that not what true love feels like?

  #47 - Harm

Zoro knows Sanji will be furious ; but as he faces Kuma, knowing at least the Cook is out of harm’s way, he knows he would do this a hundred times over, a thousand times over, a million times over.

  #48 - Precious

Sanji is sitting by the corner of the infirmary, face pale with red-rimmed eyes, and Zoro thinks he’s never had that, before — people who would weep for him, knowing that he is more than dried scars and calloused skin.

  #49 - Hunger

This thing we have is dangerous, Sanji tells him, but Zoro doesn’t care — he already has a craving, the same way he needs a booze when it’s been too long, except he thinks that this vice will surely kill him.

  #50 - Believe

This isn’t faith; this is the truth, Zoro’s truth, the same way he knows he will become the Greatest — Sanji will find that elusive sea of his, and Zoro will stay with him until it is the last thing he can do.

[lawslessons]

Daylight Dreaming (Zoro x Luffy)

“He’s all I can ever think about, it’s always been him, hasn’t it?”

Letter Z from the Soulmate AU list. I wanted to explore the possibility of Luffy not reciprocating any feelings or any possible attraction to our swordsman based off of a theory I heard about Luffy being aromantic/asexual. And at the same time, I wanted to see if I could intermingle platonic and romantic soulmates at the same time! I hope you enjoy!

Warnings: Suggested ace/aro Luffy, One sided love, angst

Synopsis: The light burned his dreams, but then that light became a person, and then a feeling, and then his everything. Zoro was confused about why Luffy was suddenly showing up in his dreams, and then one day he wasn’t. Was he doing something wrong?

Zoro lethargically looked up at the burning sun in front of him. He flexed his hands into a fist and looked over at both of his hands in his crucifixion pose. He was almost free, he had been there for so long, he felt the world around him beginning to spin. The sun beat down on him and left him feeling drained and empty, it was beginning to hurt, his stomach was empty and his throat was dry, but he was not about to quit. Not now, not when he was so close…

That thought lingered in the swordsman’s mind as he drifted off to sleep again. His dreams have been rather odd his whole life. He had adventure dreams where he was the protagonist of his own story. And with him, he had a companion made out of light that seemed to follow him everywhere. He always enjoyed hearing what the light being had to say, but when he woke up, he could never seem to recall what was said to him. This process went on for ten years, and like today, it was no different. He went on his adventure with his light friend before he woke up and faced the burning reality in front of him. A bead of sweat dropped down his face and onto the sandy ground helplessly. It was almost time, he knew he could wait longer he had to. He had to finish this and go back to his goal of becoming the worlds greatest swordsman for him and his friend. For her.

Zoro sighed and closed his eyes, things felt easier when he was asleep and he could hear his voice again. That soft laugh, it brought a smile to his face. But wait. He wasn’t asleep. His eyes shot open when he saw a shorter male with black hair and a straw hat smiling up at him.

“Join my crew!” And with that, Zoro’s life had changed. When he slept next, he was on the ship with his captain, Luffy. This time, he didn’t see his light friend, instead he saw his captain smiling at him and going with him on the adventures just like the light being did. Zoro didn’t understand what that meant, but he also didn’t think that much into it. These dreams went on for weeks, and then it was months and before he knew it, he was on the Thousand Sunny exercising with Robin in the room and talking to her about his dreams.

“Have you ever had the dreams with a person of light in it?” Robin asked as she flipped a page in her book. Zoro grunted and thrusted his arms down with the absurdly large weight on it.

“The light dreams? I did for a long time, but that light person isn’t there anymore,” Zoro explained as he continued with his set. When he noticed how silent Robin was, he paused his exercise and looked over at her curiously. “Why?”

“Has that light been replaced by someone else?” She asked as she looked at the swordsman with a soft but excited smile on her face.

“I think? I’m not sure. I don’t remember when the light started to go away,” Zoro admitted as he went back to his set, he still didn’t understand why Robin was asking him all these questions. “What about you? Do you have a light person in your dreams too?” Zoro asked her. Robin smiled and shook her head.

“Not anymore, mine went away rather recently,” Robin shared as she glanced back at her book. That was where their conversation ended but this was when Zoro began to think about some things. He didn’t understand why Robin asked him that, was this normal? That was when he decided he needed answers. When he was about to ask the woman about this, Robin stood up and softly smiled at Zoro. “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you,” She said as she walked away. What did that even mean? Zoro put down his weight and frowned, he didn’t understand what she was going on about anymore. Zoro decided it would be easier to just ignore it and go about his workout.

When he went to bed that night, he couldn’t seem to fall asleep in the boys cabin. He laid awake, staring up at the ceiling before he glanced over at his captain who was curled into his blanket and softly snoring. Zoro looked at him for a small moment before he took in his features. His black hair falling over his face, the small scar on his cheek and the way Luffy’s lips were parted as he breathed in the cool night air. Zoro rubbed his face after a second and went back to staring at the ceiling, that would be easier to explain than staring at his captain. He didn’t dream that night, or the night after that, or the one after that. In fact, this continued for weeks and confused him even more. During this time, Zoro found himself having more restless nights where he would watch over Luffy or go walking around the ship to make sure everyone else was safe.

During the day, he would work out and fall asleep in the crow’s nest, but no dreams would come. Just the fact that he wasn’t having dreams wasn’t the only thing bothering him. The other thing that frustrated him was how soft he was becoming towards his captain, one of his closest friends. Were his eyelashes always that long? Was his skin always that smooth? Zoro felt his mind beginning to swim the more he thought about it. And the more he stared at his captain, the less innocent his thoughts became. When Sanji passed by him with a tray of drinks, Zoro grabbed one off the tray and poured the sticky drink over his face to snap himself out of it.

“OI! Asshole! That was for Nami and Robin!” Sanji began to scold, but his words fell on deaf ears. No matter what Zoro tried, his mind couldn’t get off his captain. When he trained, the music in his ears was Luffy’s laugh. During dinner, he didn’t feel like he could drink alcohol since he was drinking in Luffy’s smile. God, when did he become like this? Was he always like this? The swordsman looked frustrated with himself the longer this went on.

He needed help.

There was only one person he knew he could ask about this.

“Robin, please. What does the light in my dreams mean? And why am I not getting dreams anymore?” Zoro asked with his tail between his legs. His pride faltered, his emotions were beginning to get the better of him and he needed the help of Robin before he lost his mind. Robin looked over at him and chuckled. She knew he needed help, but she didn’t expect him to stake her out in the ship’s library for it.

“You’re not getting dreams anymore?” Robin asked as she put her book down and rested her hand on the bookcase. She brushed her long black hair away from her tanned skin and sighed. “That happens, don’t worry. You’re close to realizing it, there’s one more step until you can see your dream person again,” Robin explained, and to her surprise, Zoro was listening to her with intent. He pursed his lips together and nodded, he needed to know what to do to get his mind back to normal again. He wanted things to go back to the way they were, but he supposed it was maybe too late by this point. “You need to kiss the person who used to show up in your dreams,” Robin grinned. Zoro’s face bloomed red at that and he took a couple of steps back in shock.

“Kiss? I have to kiss Luffy?” Zoro blurted out before he covered his mouth with his hand and stared down at his feet. Robin’s laughter filled the room and it made the swordsman that much more embarrassed.

“So that’s why you’ve been staring at him, I knew it, I was just teasing about kissing him, don’t worry,” Robin smiled, Zoro looked over at the woman and rose a brow, silently asking her to elaborate what she meant. “The only way you can get him back in your dreams is if you’re honest with yourself and him,” she said, “Remember how I said if I told you back then that you wouldn’t believe me? Well, I feel like now you may believe me. Maybe,” she said as she picked up her book again and began to leave the library with Zoro trailing after her. “He’s your soulmate,” she casually said before leaving the room. Zoro was left standing in the room, stunned and confused. It felt as if he was hit by a cannon ball. Not only was Luffy potentially his soulmate, he had to kiss him. Maybe. Right? Just thinking about doing that to his captain felt wrong to him, after all, how on earth could someone like Luffy reciprocate the feelings that Zoro was experiencing?

But before he could even think about kissing his captain again, Sabody happened. Then instead of it being days, it was weeks. And months. And then years. Zoro believed that time would fix his affliction, it would make him not be so distracted over his captain but he was proven wrong. The longer he was away from his captain, the more intense his feelings became. He distracted himself with his training, and before he knew it, two years passed and he was physically a lot stronger and mentally too in all things except one. Him. Zoro was ten days early to their meeting spot. Every day was filled with dread, anxiousness and excitement as he waited for his friends and captain. When the day finally came that he saw Luffy again, he didn’t even have time to take him in because of the fight that occurred on the island. But when they were all on the ship again, Zoro watched as everyone had a proper reunion. He said his greetings to his friends, but ge actively avoided Luffy until he was forced to confront him in the night.

“Oi, Zoro,” Luffy said up to the swordsman. Luffy had his arm’s crossed over his chest and stared up at Zoro and looked him over. Zoro had a scar over his eye and seemed to be sporting some new clothes. Nice. “I missed you,” Luffy said before he hugged onto the swordsman and laughed. Zoro gasped and felt his entire face turn red when he felt his captain’s cheek against his rapidly beating heart.

“I missed you too,” Zoro managed to say before he cautiously hugged Luffy back. And when his hands met the small of his captain’s back, his entire body flooded with warmth and his pulse steadied until it felt like his and Luffy’s hearts were in sync. “So much…” Zoro said as he tightened the hug. He felt like they were the only people in the world. He didn’t mind having to wait longer for Luffy if he had to, he would wait his whole life for him.

That night when Zoro slept, he found himself looking into a colorful ocean, and being on a bright ship. On the bow of the ship sat his captain with hands stretching out towards the swordsman. Zoro took his hands and moved to be sitting next to him as the dream Luffy babbled about nothing and everything. Even if Luffy didn’t feel the same about him now, or ever, Zoro was alright with that. At least he would always have his dreams.

[sin-of-jess]

Sanji Vinsmoke

Type:  Fluff

So this is the first non-nsfw post I’ve made, and it’s really just a drabble!  There’s no point behind it, just sweet ramblings and situations from our sweet cook Sanji!

~

The ship was quiet this morning, the only sounds were from the waves as they gently hit the side of the ship.  We were currently docked on the edge of an island, the curiosity of Luffy getting the best of him.  Nami had tried to convince our captain that there was no need to stop, that we had plenty of supplies so we could go straight to our next destination, but Luffy was stubborn and wouldn't quit until he got his way. Now everyone was spread out across the island.  Luffy was running around the island exploring with Usopp and Brook keeping an eye on him.  Nami and Robin had joined Chopper in following along the shoreline to collect shells and keep a lookout for herbs for food or medicine.  Zoro was a good way away from the ship training with his swords while Franky was giving the ship a good once over. Sanji was in the kitchen preparing the food for lunch on the beach while I opted to stay on the deck and read.  I couldn't help but take advantage of the silence on the deck, letting the warm sun relax me.  Just as the grip on my book lessens and my eyes begin to droop, a glass dripping with condensation comes into my peripheral. "Something cool for madam,"  Sanji coos as he leans over with a grin. I match his grin as I take the drink, enjoying the sweetness of both the drink and the blonde beside me.  "Thank you, darling," I respond, rolling my eyes as his eyes turn to hearts and he begins to melt from the pet name. Once he composes himself he sits down on the floor beside me, leaning over to look at the book I had been reading, "One of Robin's books?" I nod as I place it on the small table beside me, taking another sip of my drink before setting it beside the book.  Once I'm looking towards my boyfriend again I answer him, "It is, she got it during our time away and thought I'd enjoy it."  I glance at how high the sun is, "Have you finished prepping the food?" "I did, all that's left is to get the grill and table out.  Once I do that I'll bring out the food to start cooking."  He tells me as he stretches his arms over his head.  His coat is nowhere to be seen and his sleeves are rolled up, and I can't help but admire the way his arms look. "I could help!"  I tell him as my eyes snap back to his. Sanji shakes his head, "I could never ask for you to sully your hands with such labors!" I roll my eyes as I begin to stand up, "You didn't ask, I offered!  I'll get the table and you get the grill, then we can both get the food put out and we can cook together?" His eyes shine at that, and he proceeds to spin around me as I walked towards the storage room while saying "I'm the luckiest man in all the seas!" That's the best thing about Sanji, he always knows how to make even the smallest things seem like a treasure.  The table was no trouble, the hardest part being maneuvering it through the doors and down to the shore.  I give the table a good wipe-down before helping Sanji set out the food, one end having the food that's ready to eat, and the other side having the food that's to be cooked on the grill.   "What order should these be in?"  I ask as I pick up one of the skewers for the kabobs.   "Ah,"  Sanji starts as he reaches my side, "Not everyone liked the same thing, so I'll work on the ones for everyone else.  You should work on Luffy's since he'll eat all of this." "Of course he will,"  I joke with a grin as I begin stabbing the different pre-cut ingredients onto the wooden sticks.  We work into a quiet routine, nearly working in sync as we skewered the food and sat it on the large plate between us. Once the food was prepared I dash over to the grill, "I wanna cook it!"  I tell him. His eyes widen just a touch, "I don't want you to risk burning yourself!"  He worries. I laugh and bump my hip into him, "I had marine bullets coming at me a few days ago, I think I can handle a little old grill."  My face turns more serious, "I'm not useless, I love to help you Sanji." The worry in his face softens, knowing I don't like being babied like this, "You're right, at least let me show you how to cook them."  I agree to that, and my cheeks grow warm as the tall blond stands behind me and guides me with his hands.   Once I had the hang of it and was doing it myself, his hands dropped down to my waist as he watches me cook.  He gently rubs circles with his thumbs as he softly praises me at how quick I catch on.   Soon the smell of cooking meat fills the air, our captain and his chaperones breaking through the trees.  Sanji releases his grip on me and defensively opens his arms, "Captain, you WILL wait for the food to be done, I don't need the beautiful Y/N's delicate hands to be scorched trying to fight off your greedy hands!" "Delicate?"  Usopp comments, taking reference to the usual wear and tear a swordswoman faces with their hands.  I give Usopp a knowing look, the sniper snickering at the ridiculousness that comes from Sanji. Luffy starts to munch on the food that was ready to eat, Usopp trying to keep him from eating everyone else's portions.  The women and Chopper come into view soon after, knowing that the smell of food meant they needed to hurry before Luffy stole everything edible.  Franky drops from the ship and joins the others in trying to get a morsel of food for themselves between the fast-paced hands of our captain. Zoro is the last to come, and took notice of it being me at the grill, "Aren't you suppose to be the one cooking, ero-cook?"  He taunts. Taking the bait, Sanji turns to him with sharp teeth and a forehead tik, "She wants to cook!"  He spits back at the swordsman. Before things can escalate, I grab Sanji's attention, "Oh darling, are these ready?"  I ask sweetly as I bat my eyes.  I know it will easily distract him, and it works like a charm as he spins around and inspects the skewers.  "just about!"  He tells me.   The food is done and everyone is sitting in small groups around the beach and treeline.  Sanji grabs a plate and begins to fill it, "For you my goddess!"   I grab the plate and sit it down on the table, grabbing his hand and leaning up for a quick kiss, "It's always fun to cook with you babe,"  I tell him.  His smile mimics my own as he leans down to give me another kiss. This felt like one of those memorable moments, the crew around enjoying themselves while having the most incredible boyfriend by my side.  It's something I hope never changes.

[smol-fatale]

Short GN Reader X Zoro, No warnings just fluff, ~1000 words

Prompt 1:

“You never listen to me.” Random word: friendly

Beginning with a kick and ending with a cat, you set off to spend a day at the market with your boyfriend Zoro.

This is my first fic for @silenceofthecookies​‘s Totally Random Creation’s Challenge. Hope you enjoy and you can also read it below! 

No Chopper here but the gif is adorable.

A Day at the Market

“You never listen to me.”

You glared at your green-haired boyfriend who laid peacefully on the floor like a cat as the sun shone down on him. You readied yourself to kick him in his side but when you did he grabbed your ankle and pulled you down on top of him. You froze momentarily, sitting backwards on his waist before spinning around so you faced his chest. Immediately you started banging on his bare chest and after a while he grabbed your wrists, eyes still closed.

“I’m sorry. What did you say?” He opened one eye staring intently at yours.

“You never listen to me.” You repeated, refusing to back down from his gaze.

“Oh, I heard that.” He smirked as you huffed and slapped his chest.

“Not what I meant.” You slid off and laid next to him, pouting as you angled your face away from your boyfriend.

“What did you mean?” He whispered in your ear as he wrapped an arm around your waist. 

“I told you a month ago that the market was coming to town this week. I reminded you every week since then. It rained for the past couple of days and you said we can go today since the sun is shining but where do I find you? Asleep. Like you don’t already do that for 20 hours a day.” You rolled over so you were virtually on top of the tan man. 

Zoro then sat up pulling you with him. He looked down to see that you were fully dressed. He looked up to find you pouting at him and his resolve to stay indoors crumbled. He mumbled a gruff “Fine,” before getting up to get dressed but don’t think that he didn’t see your small victory cheer as he did.

***

Now you already have little markets sprinkled around your little town but this one was different. For one, all those markets were specialized so where one was for food, another could be for jewelry. Second, your town was a major tourist attraction as it was nestled between an expansive beach and beautiful mountains. This market not only combined the smaller ones but it also showcased the various crafts of the tourists who came to visit and you were excited. 

As soon as Zoro was dressed, you grabbed him by the hand and practically ran to the market, your enthusiasm emanating from you in waves. This caused a small smile to appear on his face, which grew with the mental image of comparing you to a mouse running for a block of cheese since you were almost a foot shorter than him. 

Arriving at the market you strategically avoided all the clothing stalls since Zoro only bought new clothes when his old ones were falling apart at the seams. Though you did make a mental note to double back later for a leather jacket and wool cardigan that would be perfect for him. Instead, you immediately headed for the food stalls. There, you were surrounded by the enticing smells of all things culinary, from sweet to savory. You and Zoro shared a steamed bun and,  though they were too sweet for his liking, he even bought you cookies.

He also entertained your whims when you wanted to play the few mini-games the market had to offer. With enough goading and good-natured insults, his competitiveness was sparked leading you both to go overboard on games that were equivalent to picking up jacks. Eventually, you were asked to leave as you were “Ruining the market’s integrity,” or at least that was implied by one of the vendors. 

Taking your hand, Zoro guided you aimlessly until you stumbled across a jewelry stand where Zoro picked out a gold chain earring for you that matched the three on his left ear. Appreciative of this gesture, you bought him a craft beer in return. Suddenly remembering the cardigan and leather jacket you wanted to buy, you directed your boyfriend to some steps at the edge of the market and made him promise not to go anywhere.

Zoro was more than content to take a break from the market. It’s not that he didn’t want to go. It’s just that shopping and sightseeing have never personally interested him. He was rather content with staying at home and taking a nap with you. Maybe you two could even go on a hike or a least a walk but you wanted to go to the market that came to town once a year and he promised himself that he would do anything to keep that bright smile on your face.

While sitting on the steps, a black cat curiously peered at him from behind the corner. They had a little staring contest and Zoro slowly blinked at him, allowing for the cat to trust him. He had dark green eyes, darker than Zoro’s hair and his paws were a fluffy white. As Zoro is a naturally calm man, he didn’t flinch when the cat jumped into his lap, slowly making his way to his shoulder. Zoro noticed then that the cat didn't have a collar but seemed non-dangerous as he was playing with Zoro’s earrings. That was until the little nuisance accidentally swiped at his jaw leaving three small scars. He then jumped back into his lap as you approached with the jackets. 

“Aww~ Isn’t he cute and friendly?” You cooed as you sat down next to your boyfriend.

“Friendly huh? Look at what he did?” He angled his jaw to you with a playful smirk as you softly scritched the cat’s ear.

“You’re fine.” You kissed the scars softly before laying your head on his shoulder.

You sat there, eyes closed with one hand in your boyfriend’s while the other was warmed by the sleeping body on your lap. Zoro took this opportunity to inspect the items you bought. He liked the leather jacket and begrudgingly admitted that the wool cardigan was nice too but he had a feeling that you would be wearing it more than he would. As soon as you woke from your little reprieve, you both set out for home. The cat softly jumped from your lap and followed the two of you until you went inside. Then he turned around and went about his own business, thus concluding your day at the market.

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