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zosan-secondchances · 5 days ago

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The Pirate King of the North: Part 25

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26

Doflamingo

This is a fun little new trick, Fukaboshi. Did Daddy teach it to you? What say you show it off next time we have another dinner party, hmm?

Fukaboshi

Don't change the topic. And don't force my hand, brother. You wouldn't want to do this the hard way.

Doflamingo snarls at him angrily and lunges forwards but is only able to nudge his head and shoulders. Fukaboshi's water abilities remain strong. The ever swirling vortex that holds the Warlord constricts his body in place.

Doflamingo

Don't you dare call me that, fish scum. I never have thought of you as one.

Fukaboshi

You're right. I shouldn't. Especially after everything you've done.

It's a shame…. You had every potential to do good and look at you now.

Doflamingo

Tch. You don't know me at all.

Fukaboshi narrows his eyes and hovers himself away, pulling the trident from the Warlord's face to slam its base onto the sandy floor.

Fukaboshi

No…. Something's changed.

Doflamingo

Nothing has changed. I've always been like this.

The mermaid king hesitates and carefully observes the state of the man in front of him. Seeing that the Warlord is too maddened, he judges that he will have no chance to change his heart by appealing to him at this point. He presses on back to the original matter at hand.

Fukaboshi

Tell me where Sanji is, Doflamingo.

At that, the tall blonde remains quiet. Through the cracked lenses of his sunglasses, the mermaid king sees his eyes move ever so subtly to the side, towards the shore where he'd emerged from. When he follows his gaze, he sees a dark shape half buried in the sand. He approaches it.

Doflamingo

Don't!

Fukaboshi pauses on his tracks and glances at him with an intrigued brow. He continues his careful approach. As he gets closer, Doflamingo’s rage worsens.

Doflamingo

I SWEAR, IF AS MUCH AS LAY A SINGLE FINGER ON HIM–!!!

Fukaboshi

Sanji?

The mermaid king's eyes widen in surprise when he recognises the stranger's familiar blonde hair and curled brows. He doesn't question his new form but instead, he gently scoops him up and carries him in one of his large arms.

Doflamingo

WHAT DID I FUCKING SAY?! When I get out of here, I will gut you and the rest of your family!

Fukaboshi ignores him and quietly floats inland, never taking his concerned gaze off the unconscious young man.

Fukaboshi

Heart Pirates, I need your assistance.

From behind a large boulder near one of Jaya’s forests, Bepo, Penguin and Shachi come out of hiding and run towards him.

Bepo

Did you find them, King Fukaboshi?!

Fukaboshi

Keep Sanji safe. I think he was knocked out cold.

Bepo

Ahh!! Chore Boy! Give– uh…

As soon as the mermaid king passes the young man into the arms of the polar bear mink, the three Heart Pirates stare at the stranger in confusion. After a short moment, Penguin breaks the silence.

Penguin

We've been doing this for a very long time but not once have I seen this as a symptom for getting “knocked out cold”.

Shachi

Are you sure it's him, Mr. Fish King?

Fukaboshi

I am certain.

Bepo

He looks so…different. Younger! How can you be so sure?

Fukaboshi

Just a gut feeling.

And…Doffy there isn't too happy.

They all turn their attention to the still writhing and raging Warlord in Fukaboshi's water hold.

Bepo

You did it…. You really did it! You captured him! Captain will be so happy!

Shachi

I'll get a dry towel for Chore Boy.

Penguin

Right! Let's get to work!

Bepo

Right!

The Heart Pirates hurriedly make their way towards a nearby treeline and settle the younger Sanji on the soft grass to nurse him.

Doflamingo

I will kill. Every. Single. One of you.

DO YOU HEAR ME?!

Fukaboshi glares at the Warlord and returns to stand in front of him. He holds his trident aloft and slams the blunt end onto the ground. From the impact, a loud gong-like tune emanates from the weapon and reverberates through to its very tips. The sand shifts like a wave of water and the force travels out to the open sea. Doflamingo makes a growling sound at the back of his throat but stops struggling about.

Reiju

Fukaboshi!!

A familiar shape appears from above. With Law on her back, the pink commander descends and takes a run towards the mermaid king. When she gets closer, they notice her bulging heart-shaped eyes and legs spinning about, moving around left and right like a toy top.

Reiju

FUKABOSHI, MY BEAUTIFUL PRINCE!!! Your long wavy locks and bedazzling scales never fail to brighten my day!

Please, PLEASE ignore the ugly man hanging off me! My heart only belongs to you!

Law

QUIT IT!! You’re making me dizzy! Put me down!

Reiju

Psh.

When Reiju finally settles, Law spots the water-bound Warlord and gawks at him in bewilderment. He hops down from the commander's back and approaches Doflamingo cautiously.

Law

You…. How is this possible?

Fukaboshi

You must be Trafalgar Law. I heard so many good things about you.

Law

A pleasure, Your Highness. I assume this is your handiwork?

Fukaboshi

Please, just “Fukaboshi” will do. Any friend of the Pirate King is a friend to Fish-Man Island. And yes. A mutual friend of ours insisted I get more creative with my combative skills so… here we are.

Doflamingo

Well, well…what lovely new friends we’re all making today. Don't think this is all over, Law. You're the reason why this all started in the first place.

Reiju

I think it very much is the end for you, Doflamingo.

Great job, Fukaboshi! You really did it this time!

Fukaboshi half bows to her with an appreciative smile.

Reiju

Have you seen Sanji and Roronoa Zoro by any chance? He and this one had thrown themselves off Skypiea and fought midair. We couldn't catch up in time and lost sight of him.

Fukaboshi doesn’t look too impressed at the sound of the Demon Warlord’s name but as he’s in the audience of one of his favourite Vinsmokes, he keeps his composure.

Fukaboshi

I'm afraid I haven't seen Roronoa Zoro. I've just called for my forces to return. Hopefully they will have better news for you. As for Sanji–

The tide rapidly drops and all eyes turn towards the body of water. When it rises, a large form emerges from the depths, accompanied by two gigantic seakings tailing it closely. The creatures remain partly submerged and stop just before the shallower side. Shirahoshi floats with her own bubble over the land to join the crowd, looking tired and emotional.

Shirahoshi

Big sister Reiju! I'm so glad to see you safe! Did you find Sanji?!

Reiju

Erm…

Fukaboshi

The Heart Pirates are tending to the Pirate King as we speak.

Reiju

Oh, Fukaboshi, you're the best!!

Reiju jumps to kiss Fukaboshi on the cheek then immediately runs inland to join the Heart Pirates by the treeline.

Shirahoshi

This is great news about Sanji! But uhm…big brother, my seakings found a uh… sky seaking, I guess?

Fukaboshi

A…what?

They look towards the seakings in the water. When Shirahoshi waves at them, they shift their long tails apart to reveal a giant snake partly wrapped over their long bodies for support.

Law

NOLA?!?

The two giant creatures assist Nola towards the shore, curling and stretching their long tails to carefully carry her through. Thanks to them, her head stays above the surface but the rest of her body falls limp in the waters. They can tell that she's in no shape to move. Her body is riddled with scorch marks and cuts which Law deduces were from the fires and the raiders’ attacks. He quickly trudges through the shallow end and places a gentle affectionate hand on her massive nose.

Law

What are you doing all the way down here? How did you even get here? Is Skypiea gone for good?

The creature coos softly at recognising his voice. She weakly opens her eyes and looks straight at him. To Law’s surprise, she winks. With a groan, she slowly opens her mouth widely and everyone on the island gasps in shock.

Inside her gaping maw, the entire population of Skypiea stood. They cover and squint their eyes until they adjust to the light. At which point, Wyper, Gan Fall and Conis carefully make their way down from Nola's tongue then through between her fangs.

Wyper

So this is the blue sea…. The air is… different–ah.

As soon as the three Skypieans jump onto the shallow waters, their legs quiver at the odd sensation.

Conis

Why are the clouds like this? So weird…. It's all water.

When they walk further and onto the sandy ground, they are met by the mermaid king and his sister. They stare at each other curiously, eyeing the different features on their bodies in amazement having never seen species of their kinds before.

Conis

You… you have a tail! And gills! And you can fly? So cool!!

Shirahoshi

And you have wings and…those pointy things on your head! That’s so fascinating! Oh…this is just a coral bubble. We need it to float around on land.

Fukaboshi smiles warmly at them.

Fukaboshi

You must be the sky people. I welcome you. I wish your arrival was in better circumstances. It’s not normally this…

He glances behind him towards Doflamingo.

Fukaboshi

…unpleasant.

Wyper

You don’t say…

Wyper marches angrily at the bound Warlord.

Wyper

This must be the Doflamingo we've heard so much about. I should kill you right here, right now for burning down our home.

Voice

Wait!

Red and green blazing auras descend from the sky. When they land, Yonji approaches Fukaboshi and the crowd surrounding him while Ichiji hurriedly makes his way towards the Heart Pirates with the unconscious Niji in his arms.

Reiju

Oh, Niji…. Lay him here, brother. Gently now.

Ichiji

You got Sanji, then? Wait…

Reiju

It’s a long story….

Gan Fall

It’s you! Wyper, Conis–look! It's the green Northy!

Yonji

God and Skypieans… I… I took part in the destruction of your home and I will take full responsibility for my actions.

Wyper’s face turns red from fury.

Wyper

You… WHAT?!

Reiju

Hold on!

Before Wyper could lunge at Yonji, Reiju runs and puts herself between them. She holds her brother's hand behind her protectively.

Reiju

Doflamingo controlled him against his will. He couldn't fight it!

Wyper

I don't care about your excuses! He deserves to be punished!

Reiju

I agree. But not here. Not like this.

Gan Fall steps forward from behind and lays a gentle hand on Wyper’s shoulder.

Gan Fall

The girl is right, Wyper. We can’t rush into these things. Just remember, this young man rescued us from those pirates and somehow helped us find our way down here.

Having left Niji in the Heart Pirate’s care, Ichiji joins them to chime in.

Ichiji

Yonji did well, sister. He did exactly what God said and single handedly flew the snake down with his winches to save everyone from the fires. It wasn't easy. We’re lucky we ran into Shirahoshi.

Gan Fall

See, Wyper? Level your head. He deserves a fair trial. You’re not going to run away, are you, young man?

Yonji

No, sir. I meant what I said. I will accept the consequences of my actions.

Gan Fall

A brave and honourable decision. We will certainly attend your hearing and we will take that into account. I suppose we’ll just have to trust you to come along.

Reiju

And what of Doflamingo’s crew?

Yonji hesitates to speak. He shifts his legs and rubs the back of his arm uncomfortably. When Reiju sees them, she notices that his sleeves are covered in dried blood.

Yonji

They’re taken care of.

Ichiji

Under my direct order, Reiju. They didn’t give us much of a choice. They were relentless.

Reiju

Oh…

Wyper

Tch.

Wyper crosses his arms and averts his gaze, unsatisfied with the whole situation and Gan Fall’s decision to not take immediate action.

Yonji

I’m sorry. I know my apology isn’t enough and it will never be. I don’t expect you to forgive me at all.

Wyper

You bet we wo–!

When the warrior glares at the commander, he freezes. He sees a mirage of Zoro and Sanji’s faces circle around his green-haired head. When they merge into one, the illusion pops, revealing Yonji's face behind it. Blood suddenly bursts out of Wyper’s nose. His eyes roll to the back of his skull as he faints but Yonji catches him by an arm and around his waist in time before he hits the ground.

Yonji

Woah, woah! Are you okay? What happened? I swear, I didn’t do anything.

Wyper groans, his eyes spinning in circles.

Conis

OH! It’s because you look like… erm… I’ll explain later. Come on, Wyper. Sit down and have a second.

Conis leads them under the treeline with the rest of the injured. Yonji sets down the dizzy warrior to recover in the shade. Back on the shore, Law rolls his eyes after realising exactly what the Skypiean was talking about.

Law

Now then…

The doctor approaches Doflamingo until he's just outside the vortex of water that binds him. He taps his own shoulder a couple of times with his sheathed sword, glaring at the man. Doflamingo simply returns his gaze with a menacing smile.

Doflamingo

I hope you’re happy, Trafalgar. This is a very heartwarming reunion…seeing old friends and making new ones. Quite touching.

Law

You have something that belongs to me.

Doflamingo

You would think so.

Law

Fukaboshi, I need to search him.

Fukaboshi

You’re welcome to. He’s too weak in the water to resist. Though I must recommend a non-Devil Fruit user to assist you. If you so much as touch those waters, you’ll find that your energy will drain in an instant.

Law

I see. In that case–

Doflamingo

You can search me all you want, Law. But you’ll find that I have nothing in my possession that’s of interest to you.

Rosinante is lost. Again. Thanks to you.

Law narrows his eyes at him and grits his teeth angrily, resisting every urge to beat the living shit out of him.

Voice

Big bro! We found the swordsman!

All eyes turn back to the sea and watch Fukaboshi’s brothers emerge from the blue waters. With their own bubbles, they float their way up to the island. In front, Ryuboshi leads the way with a weakened and bloodied Zoro on his back. Manboshi follows closely behind them, carrying all three of his swords in his arms.

Law

Zoro-ya!

Zoro struggles to lift his head over the mermaid prince's shoulder. As soon as he sees Law, he raises his arm, showing off the Heart of Skypiea in his hand. The doctor feels a great amount of relief wash over him.

Doflamingo

Tch.

Reiju

MY PRINCES!!!

Shirahoshi

Wait, big sister! Close your eyes!!!

Clasping her hands under her chin, Reiju spins and circles around all three mermaid brothers. Lecherous hearts pop out of her eyes.

Reiju

My three favourite royal mermen…all in one place?! I have…to resist…. BUT I COULDN'T BE ANY HAPPIER! MY GORGEOUS HANDSOME BEAUTIES! PLEASE ALLOW ME TO EXPRESS MY UNDYING LOVE!!

Before she can, Reiju suddenly turns into stone. Her stunned body falls onto the sand with a heavy thump and they all stare at her awkwardly.

Shirahoshi

I’m so, so, sorry Reiju!

Big brothers! I told you to wear shirts!

Manboshi

Oh no… not again.

Ichiji sighs in exasperation and drags Reiju’s petrified body by her foot though the sand and up on the grassy terrain where the Heart Pirates are currently tending to the injured–some more than others.

Ichiji

Here. Another one.

Heart Pirates

WHAT?!

Bepo

What's with everyone just suddenly fainting?! We’re not even under attack!

Penguin

Captain!! We are severely understaffed right now.

Shachi

I don’t even know how to help this one!

Ichiji

Trust me, she's pretty helpless. Just give her time and make sure nothing breaks off.

Bepo

…Oops…

Ichiji

…Like that. Yeah…. It’s probably best that you don't tell her that you snapped some of her hair.

Back on the sandy shores where the friends gathered, Ryuboshi approaches the mermaid king.

Ryuboshi

Big brother, what do we do with the Demon Warlord, do-re-mi-fa~?

Zoro attempts to push himself to look up but his head flumps back onto the mermaid prince’s shoulder. When the crystal heart slips from his grasp, Law catches it on time.

Fukaboshi snarls at the sight of the swordsman and crosses his arms.

Fukaboshi

This one you can throw back into the sea.

Neptune Siblings

WHAT?!

Doflamingo laughs out loud.

Doflamingo

For once, we are in agreement, King Fukaboshi.

Fukaboshi

Hmph.

Shirahoshi

That’s so cruel, big brother! No! I must insist that we help him!

Fukaboshi

Do what you want. He can drown or bleed to death for all I care. Both, if we're lucky.

Shirahoshi

Stop talking like that!

Zoro

Let…let me down.

Ryuboshi

A–are you sure, swordsman? You look badly hurt, re-mi-so~

Law approaches and assists Zoro off the mermaid prince. He hooks his arm around his shoulder to keep him up.

Zoro

Traffy… I failed him. I couldn't…

Law

He's here. Come on. I’ll take you to him.

Relieved to hear the news, Zoro lets the doctor drag his feet. Fukaboshi’s unhappy eyes follow them as they make their way inland. The rest of the crowd tails them, eager to hear the exact events that unfolded in Skypiea, and to check on Sanji and the rest of the injured. Now alone with the mermaid king, Doflamingo speaks.

Doflamingo

I can die happy if you promise to kill him.

They watch quietly as Law sets the swordsman down onto the grass where young Sanji lay. Weakly, Zoro crawls towards him and sits next to his body while Law and the Heart Pirates start their preparations to attend to his injuries. With a hushed low voice, Fukaboshi responds to the Warlord.

Fukaboshi

I’m not making such promises.

Doffy…

Doflamingo’s eyes drop down to the ground and expression on his face turns sour, fully expecting the lecture that comes next. Fukaboshi finally turns to look at him directly.

Fukaboshi

Can’t you talk to me? I thought we used to be friends… good friends. I trusted you with my life. If it’s about the Demon Warlord, I don’t like him either. Sanji was insistent that he fight him head on but from what I was told, that was back then. How could you do this to him?

The Warlord’s head droops lower.

Fukaboshi

Is there… something else? What changed, Doffy? The three of us made a pact for life. I find it hard to believe that–

Doflamingo

Fukaboshi…

Doflamingo raises his head slightly, watching the group fuss over the injured ones. The remaining Skypieans finally build up the courage to set foot onto the island to allow Nola to rest her jaws. They flood inland to explore.

Doflamingo

Have you ever had something in your life that you’d do anything for? Something you’d give up everything for.

Fukaboshi takes a moment to process his words. He watches his own siblings reunite with their extended Vinsmoke family, shaking hands, lightly wrestling with each other and assisting the Heart Pirates in caring for Sanji, Reiju and Niji. He wonders what could possibly have occurred to Doflamingo to have him change so unexpectedly and so drastically. Afraid that the Warlord would clam up if questioned too quickly, Fukaboshi resists the urge to bombard him with questions and instead chooses to answer him directly.

Fukaboshi

Yes.

Doflamingo

I used to think everyone and everything was disposable. Replaceable.

Doflamingo bears his gaze at the unconscious blonde in the distance.

Doflamingo

This is all new to me. It disgusts me. I find myself vile and weak.

Fukaboshi

It’s not a weakness, Doffy. What you’re feeling is–

Doflamingo

Fukaboshi, I’m cashing in.

Fukaboshi

Wh–what?

Doflamingo tilts his head and locks eyes with the horrified mermaid king.

Doflamingo

To make it easier for you, I will leave. You won't have to see me again. But I can't get stuck here or anywhere.

You’ve always said that you owe me for taking part in giving your people a place in the Levely. Here's your chance to free yourself of that debt.

Fukaboshi

You’re mad. You can't be serious! You're asking for too much, Doffy! People want to see you face justice. And so do I. Especially for what you did to Sanji and his brothers. However, the reason why I’m going to insist on taking you into our custody is so you don’t get killed or worse–locked up to be mistreated by the Marines. Understand that I'm already doing this for you.

Doflamingo

Come now, viejo amigo. I know you’re a man of your word.

…What do you think Sanji would do in your place?

Fukaboshi’s eyes widen at the question. His hand grips the trident tighter, suddenly so unsure about the situation at hand.

Fukaboshi

…He would honour the deal.

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Bonus: Combined Portraits

(Really, I just wanted to upload them here so I can embed it in AO3. Don't mind me)

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zosan-secondchances · 6 days ago

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The Pirate King of the North: Part 24

I made the art specifically for -that- scene in Part 22 but I fell in love with so I might work on a full coloured version with Sanji as a pre-timeskip Straw Hats shot to be uploaded to my art blog. Stay tuned!

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26

Luffy

SANJIIIII!!!

Sanji

For the tenth time, I am not your cook.

Luffy

But how else are we going to eat?!

Sanji

I don't know. Eat leftovers. Or go fish and cook it yourself. I don't care.

Luffy

But you make them so much better!! And there's no leftovers anymore because I had them for morning snack!

Sanji

Food is food. It shouldn't matter who makes them. Eat or starve–I’m not obligated to help you because, again, I'm not your damn cook.

Luffy

Sanjiiiii!!! Why are you so mean all of the sudden?!

In a far world unknown to our heroes (but very much familiar to you and me), there sailed a ship on the clear day waters of the Grand Line. Coincidentally, this vessel is called the Thousand Sunny. On its grassy deck, seven Straw Hats settled around one of their nakama who seemed to have been transformed into an older version of himself. According to the all-truther and mightiest warrior of the sea with an army of eight thousand strong, Usopp the Brave, the very heavens itself had opened and embraced him, raising him with the angels above to return him in this new form.

Robin

Luffy, I wasn't sure before but I'm quite certain now. This is not our Sanji.

Luffy

What do you mean, Robin? The old man looks just like him, doesn't he?

Sanji

I'm not that old…. Am I?

Shit.

Robin

Well, he does act… differently…. For one, his attitude towards food is different compared to Cook-san.

Nami

I think you're right, Robin. And he hasn't…you know, done the thing.

Sanji

What thing?

Nami

You know the err… when you… you know, the… thing. Whenever me and Robin are around you.

Sanji

I have no idea what you're talking about. Saying it twice doesn't help.

The last of the Straw Hats finally joins the gathering, emerging from the infirmary and making his way down the steps.

Zoro

Hey Chopper, I got bandages for the shitty cook like you asked–

Sanji

GWAAHHH MARIMO-KUN!!!

In a blink of an eye, Sanji's legs zoom around and his heart-shaped eyes bulge out of skull. He circles around excitedly around the young version of his favourite swordsman as soon as he reaches the bottom of the floor. Unable to contain himself, he blows him multitudinous kisses in the air.

Nami

Err… that thing.

Sanji

YOU'RE. SO. CUTE. MELLORIIIIINE!!!

Shocked, Zoro accidentally drops the bag of medical equipment that Chopper had asked for. He recoils as his face reddens brightly. He holds his hands out in an attempt to keep Sanji’s kissy face away from him.

Zoro

ACK–!! Cut it out, you perverted old man!!!

Luffy bursts out laughing, pointing a mocking finger at the two.

Brook

Yohohoho! Love is in the air, it seems~

Chopper

That's interesting! Sanji, do you like boys?

Zoro forcefully pushes Sanji's face away to block an unwanted smooch. When the blonde hears the reindeer's question, he straightens up instantly, fishes out a cigarette from his pockets and lights it.

Sanji

I love men and women equally. But I do have an inclination towards individuals with…

Sanji trails his eyes up and down the young swordsman who crosses his arms and throws him an irritated frown in return.

Sanji

…domineering… qualities. Especially under the sheets….

Zoro

Ugh….

Slowly, the blonde takes a step forward towards him and another, forcing Zoro to walk backwards to maintain distance.

Sanji

My, my. But you are a delicious sight, little Marimo.

The swordsman didn't notice how hot the sun was but he quickly realises that it’s just his own skin. He's not used to seeing both of Sanji's bright blue eyes bear down on him at the same time which completely throws him off. Young Zoro hates the fucker but his scars and piercings are doing a number to his soul. He staggers and falls back against the steps.

Zoro

Little?! H–hey! What are you doing?! Back off!

Sanji

Tell me…does your Sanji see you the same way that I do?

Zoro

O–of course not!! You–

Sanji leans in and slams both of his hands against the steps, caging the shaken swordsman under him. Zoro bares his teeth and grips his sword to swipe the man away, but he freezes when the blonde flutters his eyelids and gazes down to his lips. He looks famished.

Sanji

Because, knowing myself, I would be.

I've stolen a lot of Beri and gold in my life, raided vaults of the wealthiest kings and queens across the world, but none compares to the treasure that I see before me.

Zoro's jaw drops agape, too speechless and stunned to move.

Zoro

I… I don't…

Sanji drags his own tongue over the top of his lips hungrily, lowering himself closer.

Sanji

Hmm… and I do like your eyes. Both of them.

Zoro

I…

Zoro can feel the blonde's breath over his lips when suddenly, the older man straightens up and moves away.

Sanji

It's a shame. My moral compass is unsure that I'd be cheating if I have my way with another version of you. Especially since we've just confessed our undying love to each other.

They all stare at him in bewilderment then look back and forth at him and the fallen swordsman who still lay motionless on the steps.

Usopp

Wait, wait, wait–you and Zoro are dating in the future?!

Sanji

I guess you can call it that. Though we've been romantically involved for months now.

Franky

Maybe we can meet this future Zoro ourselves when we get you home! I wonder if such technology exists to travel through time.

Sanji turns his heel to him swiftly.

Sanji

Would you have any idea if it can?

Franky

Uh…not to my knowledge. Sorry.

Robin

Actually, I don't think it's just time travel…. It does seem that you have numerous differences.

Chopper

Now that I think about it, he hasn't had a single nosebleed since he arrived. And that's for being around Nami and Robin for almost half an hour now!

Robin

Sanji-san, in your world, what are we like?

Sanji hops to sit on the wooden railing of the deck and crosses his legs. He plays with his goatee, deep in thought.

Sanji

Long nose, if what you say is true and me and your Sanji swapped, it means that my other self was right here. Travelling with you, Straw Hats.

Usopp

Well, yeah! Like Luffy said, you're our cook! You're one of us. You're nakama!

Sanji

Where I come from, I am none of those things. I'm a king.

Except for Zoro and Robin, the entire crew jumps onto their feet and gathers around him in an instant.

Straw Hats

WHAT?!

Sanji blinks at them curiously.

Sanji

They call me the Pirate King of the North. I am the crown king and ruler of Germa Kingdom.

Nami’s eyes practically transform into Beri signs. She swoons, hands clasped tightly under her chin as she forces herself through the crowd to be in front of him.

Nami

You didn't tell me that! Are you rich, Sanji-kun?!?

Sanji

Well…yeah. We do well enough for ourselves. I make an effort to make sure that people are happy and well fed.

Luffy, Usopp, Chopper, Franky and Brook’s eyes sparkle in amazement.

Chopper

That's so cool!!

Usopp

Do you have a big army?!

Franky

Do you have your own fleet of warships?!?

Brook

Do you live in a giant castle?!?!?

Luffy

Sanji, why didn't you tell us that you're a king?!?!?!?

Sanji cocks his head to the side, confused with the bombardment of questions.

Sanji

I was born into royalty. Your Sanji didn't tell you?

Luffy

Nah-uh! You never told us where you were born. When we met you, you lived with old man Zeff in a restaurant called Baratie in the East Blue!

Sanji

Zeff from Baratie? Interesting…. I've never heard of this man in my life.

He can't help but look at Zoro to observe his reaction. The young swordsman seemed to have gained his composure and was quietly listening under the shade of one of the trees on the lawn. He'd somehow acquired a tankard to drink with which he uses to hide his face behind.

Sanji sighs and shifts his legs over, crossing them the other way. He takes a long drag or his smoke and blows it out slowly. A devilish smirk forms on his face.

Sanji

Would you like to know more?

Straw Hats

YES!!!

Luffy

Tell us more about being king! Do they call you Pirate King because you found the One Piece?!

Sanji

Not exactly. I didn't make the title myself. They just–

Chopper

Do you go on many adventures?!

Sanji

Yes! Actually, I was just in–

Nami

Have you discovered rare and priceless treasures? DO YOU KNOW WHERE WE CAN FIND SOME?!

Sanji

We have this surgeon friend who–

Franky

I want to know if you have any suuuuppppeeerrrr weapons in your army!

Sanji

Oh! My brother made me this–

Usopp

Do you have righteous knights in metal armour under your command?!

Sanji

Of course! Helmets and all. And they can fly too~ They're also my si–

Usopp

AHHH!! SO UNBELIEVABLY COOL!!!

Robin

I'd like to hear more details about how you got here, Sanji-san. Maybe we'll get a better idea of how to turn things back to the way they were.

Sanji

I'm happy to–

Brook

Can you tell us how you and Zoro-san started dating? Yohohoho!

Zoro

BROOK!!! I WILL POUND YOU TO THE GROUND!

Brook

NOOOO!!!

The blonde grins playfully at them, enjoying every bit of attention that they give him. He remembers Law's advice for him not to take his favourite Marimo's offer to join the Straw Hats. While unsure on what the crew is like in his own world, he gets a glimpse of why they're too chaotic for the doctor's tastes. He can't help but find it hilarious that, in this place, he's a part of their family.

He sucks in another lungful of smoke and finally speaks after a pregnant pause.

Sanji

You might want to sit down. I can answer all of those questions but it's a bit of a long story. I'm going to need a bottle of wine or two. And you need to listen.

----------

Oh my gaaaaad the circle is finally complete!! We've caught up to Chapter 1

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zosan-secondchances · 8 days ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: The Levely (Part 23)

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26

In the middle of a lavishly decorated ensuite located in the Domain of the Gods, Sanji sat in front of a vanity, applying the last touches of his makeup in preparation for the Levely. He had been waiting for a chance to sit in one of the royal gatherings for a long time but, according to the World Government, his “reckless and idealistic ways of thinking” were not welcome to participate. He didn't want to wait another four years for the next one, and knowing very well what the World Government is like, he will never get an invitation so he decided to seek aid from one of his greatest allies.

Satisfied with the result of his art, he moves on to fix the curls of his wavy hair sitting on his shoulders, making sure that each and every one of the overly extravagant bedazzling gems on his earrings and layers of necklaces are exposed the best way possible. He brushes his locks carefully to keep the style in shape.

He hesitates for a moment and feels over the scarred slave mark on his neck, tracing a finger over the burn. With a deep breath, he decides to part his hair to expose it.

He needs to look good. He needs to look so good that they will allow Doflamingo's unnamed slave to sit in the most heavily secured room where kings and queens across the world may gawk at him and enjoy the sight during their long and strenuous talks. It is vital that he's in there rather than waiting outside like all the companions that other rulers bring along. He needs to ensure that the rulers will practically beg for his presence and insist he come with. Unfortunately this meant shaving off the spiral part of his beautiful curly brows and his hard-earned facial hair so no one can truly identify him nor his origins.

As a last touch, Sanji retrieves a thin but well crafted veil from one of the vanity's drawers and places it carefully over his nose, subtly covering the lower part of his face under its pink shade. As he secures it to make sure that they go well with his earrings, he hears one of the bedroom doors open. There is a hesitant pause, then it closes and is followed by the sound of footsteps. It stops just behind him. His eyes glance at the reflection in the mirror and sees Doflamingo looking mighty fine wearing his kingdom's royal suit and jewels of his own. His outfit is topped with his usual pink feather coat.

Doflamingo

You look good, mi rey.

Sanji

As do you, mon amour.

Doflamingo

Ah–your eyebrows?

Sanji

They’ll grow back. I’m afraid it’s rather a distinct Vinsmoke trait, isn’t it?

Doflamingo

You didn't have to get rid of your goatee though…. It was nice.

Sanji

I know, but today has to be perfect.

There is a moment of silence, then the blonde feels large fingers gently trail from his neck, spine, then down to his lower hips.

Doflamingo

You look… exquisite regardless. Pretty hot, actually.

Sanji

Aren't you full of sweet talk today? So out of character! I thought I was the weird one between us.

Doflamingo

Your tailors did well….

Sanji

Your tailors actually. I thought the disguise should match your royal suit. That way, it’s a genuine Dressrosa cut and they can't question it.

Doflamingo

Mhmm…

Sanji

It also gives the impression that my master dolls me up only in the finest of things. You should get a nice boost in reputation. Hey, are you even listening?

Doflamingo kneels behind Sanji to bury his face in his hair, getting a whiff of his scent.

Doflamingo

You know…I can do that if you wish…if you move in with me….

Sanji

Don’t change the terms to suit yourself. I seem to recall that our arrangement is a partnership, a joint venture–strictly contractual and not through marriage.

Doflamingo

Mhmm…

His large hands wrap around Sanji’s waist to tease the skin just under the fabric of his harem pants. The blonde could feel that the man is resisting every sexual impulse he has, judging by the hitching breaths on his neck. It was hard not to get just as excited. He feels a small nip on his ear.

Sanji

Easy…. Don't work yourself up. Remember, no fooling around until after the Levely. You’ll ruin the getup.

Doflamingo

But you’re acting as my slave, no? I have to contribute to this…disguise of yours.

Sanji’s eyes widen when he feels sudden sharp pain as Doflamingo bites the muscle between his neck and shoulder, breaking his skin immediately.

Sanji

OUCH! Doffy, for fuck’s sake–!

The Warlord growls an animalistic noise at the back of his throat as he sinks his teeth deeper and uses his mouth to force Sanji forwards against the vanity, slamming him hard against the counter and its mirror. The blonde's partly secured veil falls. He yelps and feels the man’s erect cock grind over fabrics of clothing between his legs.

Sanji

Nngh! What the hell are you doing?! You barely gave me any warning! You’ll–AH–you’ll leave a mark and mess everything up!

Doflamingo finally releases him, heavily panting with blood oozing down from the corner of his lips and down to his chin.

Doflamingo

Precisely. You need to look like I can’t keep my hands off you, and that I’m using you.

Of course Sanji gets excited. He arches his back and moves his hips in time with Doflamingo's rhythm. He starts feeling breathless and forgets all about the disguise that he’s worked so hard on. He wants to be fucked until he can’t think straight right there and then.

There’s another sting on the other side of his neck when Doflamingo bites him. This time, Sanji doesn't fight it. He moans to a point that he’s screaming whenever the Warlord sinks his teeth deeper. Doflamingo repeats the same treatment all over the exposed skin on his back, biting and sucking to make sure that the world knows that he’s claimed this man for himself.

Doflamingo carefully eyes the crazed state of the other blonde through the vanity’s reflection. Satisfied with his work, he spins and lifts him to sit on the counter. He continues his assault over his chest and all the way down to his lower hips. Sanji is in too much bliss to resist, leaning one hand against the mirror and the other tangled in Doflamingo’s hair.

Sanji

D–Doffy…. We–ah–need to go soon….

Doflamingo

Then let's get right down to it.

The tall Warlord trails his tongue down Sanji's front. Hurriedly, he pulls down his pants and undergarments but before he can work his mouth around his length, Sanji finds his inner strength to push his bare feet against the man's broad shoulders.

Sanji

No! Doffy, enough! You've already marked me, ruffled up my poor hair and my clothes are all crinkled. I've gone along with you but we've got plenty of time for this part later!

Doflamingo hesitates. He removes his sunglasses and places them on the far side of the vanity. He locks gaze with the fuming blonde in front of him and pleads softly, gently stroking his legs up and down to soothe him.

Doflamingo

Sanji, mi amor… luz de mi vida, mi hermoso rey... te lo suplico de rodillas.

Sanji

You… you bastard!! You can't just say shit like that!

Doflamingo

Fuck me.

Losing every semblance of self-control, Sanji gives in. He pulls Doflamingo by the hair to thrust himself into his mouth. The Warlord is more than happy to receive it. He frees his desperate leaking cock and strokes himself with his hand for relief. Neither holds back until Sanji cries out. Legs twitching and body shaking with an arched back, he comes hard and empties his load into his partner's throat. After a quick moment to recover, Doflamingo pulls away to a half stand and licks his lips clean, gasping for air.

Doflamingo

Ngh… please, Sanji… your mouth.

Still riding the high, Sanji immediately lowers himself to return the gesture. He drags his tongue from the base of Doflamingo's length to the very tip before wrapping his lips around him. The Warlord's breath hitches. Sanji grabs hold of his large hand and places it on his head, as if trying to say something but couldn't. Reading his mind, Doflamingo obliges by gripping his long blonde locks tightly with both hands and ruthlessly uses him for pleasure.

Sanji's eyes get teary from the size as the Warlord thrusts inside him intensely. He gags and coughs but couldn't get himself to move away. Instead, he grabs hold of his wrists to urge the other man on, fully wanting to get messed up.

There is a knock on the door.

Voice

My Liege, it's time.

Doflamingo swallows, trying to compose himself so he can respond properly. He slows his pace and tries to pull himself away but Sanji protests, shaking his head, and yanks him back deeper into his throat to keep him in place by his upper thighs.

Doflamingo

HNNGGH!

Voice

Your Highness? Is everything alright?

Doflamingo

Y–yes! Yes!! FUCK–!

Voice

Err…I'm supposed to escort you down to the palace.

Doflamingo

Just…wait–!

Sanji continues devouring him deeply and hungrily at the expense of breathing properly. He spanks the Warlord's ass to tell him to hurry up, making him groan in surprise. Doflamingo hisses from the sting and whispers.

Doflamingo

H–hold on…slow down–too much–just…I said WAIT–!

AHH!

Unable to keep his shaking legs up, he collapses forwards, knocking the vanity backwards against the wall to which the mirror cracks loudly from the impact. Sanji pushes a hand against Doflamingo's hip to support him. He keeps his mouth sucking and other hand pumping, never stopping the onslaught on the Warlord’s dick.

Voice

Are you unwell, Sir? Should I get a doctor?

Doflamingo

No–! Hah! Hnngh–!

Voice

Will you still be able to attend the council or…?

Doflamingo

I'm… coming…!

Doflamingo muffles out a cry as he spills inside. He takes in the delicious sight of Sanji's defined Adam's apple moving up and down as he consumes every last drop. He thrusts himself inside him slower, giving the smaller blonde some relief. Delicately, he runs his hands over Sanji's locks in appreciation before pulling himself out with a groan.

Gasping for air with overflowing cum dripping down his lips, Sanji gets hoisted up in the Warlord’s arms and kissed intimately. He moans softly and quietly into it, careful not to get heard by the worker just outside their door. Doflamingo licks his drool and the last of his own spillage from the blonde's chin.

Voice

As you wish, Sir. We will wait for you at the foyer.

Doflamingo

Oh… you're still here?

We will be down shortly. Leave or I'll cut your throat.

Voice

I–y–yes! I apologise, my Lord!

At that, they hear footsteps scrambling around in panic then it fades away. Doflamingo shakes his head disapprovingly as he kneels down to rest his still trembling legs. Sanji stands on his feet without removing himself from the Warlord’s embrace. He runs his fingers over his forehead then attempts to fix his dishevelled hair.

Doflamingo

The gall of some of these assholes.

Sanji grins at his reaction, cups his face and plants a gentle kiss in the corner of his lips. Doflamingo sighs into it and leans his forehead against his.

Doflamingo

Me vuelves loco….

The Warlord shows his gratitude by trailing light kisses from Sanji's nose then down to his neck, panting to catch his breath. The smaller blonde giggles quietly from the affectionate treatment and wraps his arms around Doflamingo's head, encasing him in.

Sanji

Mon amour chéri, nous devons y aller maintenant. Are you good?

Doflamingo

Yes. And you?

Sanji

Never better.

Doflamingo

Good.

Satisfied, they both fix each other's outfits in a hurry and give the cracked vanity mirror a quick visit to somewhat tidy themselves however they can before heading out the door. Doflamingo grabs and wears his sunglasses on the way.

Doflamingo

Oh and uh…you have to play mute.

Sanji

What?!

Doflamingo

Too much trash talk from your mouth, mi alma. Trust me, it's better this way.

—

The main reason Sanji had asked Doflamingo to take him to the Levely is because the slave disguise isn't hard to pull off with him. In fact, due to the true nature of his relationship with the Warlord, it’s proving quite easy and actually a lot of fun. They're always joint at the hip whenever they're together anyway, Doflamingo has a surprisingly gentle side, Sanji likes feeding and servicing his partner, and best of all, it's almost like they read each other's minds.

Their tactics to run their own kingdoms, wreak havoc on others and the way they present themselves may have some differences but the end goals are mostly one in the same. If one falters, the other will pick up the slack. They never failed joint missions because of this. Their differences in approach actually work to their advantage, opening up more opportunities for success to get whatever their hearts desire.

But today, they learn that this may be the first time that they're not completely in sync.

Sanji and Doflamingo sit inside the discreet protection of an especially large palanquin, made specifically to carry royalties of large stature like the Warlord himself. Like every other carriage in the parade, multiple slaves carry them through the open road that leads to Pangaea Castle as the crowd of wealthy citizens cheers for the kings and queens’ arrival for the Levely.

Instead of exposing themselves to the public, they kept their curtains shut for privacy. They whisper to each other with a hiss, a heated argument forming between them.

Doflamingo

That's not the agreement! Just stick to the plan! You don't know this place as well as I do–you’ll get caught!

Sanji

It was a last second discovery. It's too good to pass!

Doflamingo

We're here for the entire week. Do it later! The timeframe is too short!

Sanji

No! Everyone's out and about right now. It's now or never! I promise that I'll pop back in just in time!

Doflamingo

Don't you dare!

Sanji shuffles through his pockets concealed in the puffiness of his harem pants. He retrieves a small item that Doflamingo can't see, pulls back the curtain on his side and throws it through the small gap of the palanquin frames. It lands and rolls into a small alley that they pass. Doflamingo realises that it looks like one of Caesar Clown’s harmless gas bombs.

A second later it puffs out colourful purple smoke that spreads widely through the crowd then over the road in front of them. The parade comes to an abrupt halt as commotion ensues. Royal guards run towards the troubled area while the residents are running frightfully away from it. Some thought it part of the parade and cheered on.

Sanji quickly wraps himself in an elegant white cloak and covers his head with its hood.

Sanji

That's my cue. Love you!

Doflamingo

Wait, Sanji!

Sanji pecks the Warlord's cheek and quickly jumps off the window on Doflamingo's side. He joins a stream of panicked citizens within the purple cloud and vanishes among them.

Doflamingo groans in pain, falls backwards and slouches against the pillows behind him in defeat. He massages the bridge of his nose, lifting his sunglasses slightly to ease a developing headache. He hears the guards call off Sanji's colour bomb tactic as a prank and nothing more, then they proceed to shoo off the residents to clear the way for the parade.

—

In the middle of the road, a certain mermaid prince is afloat on his coral-made bubble near the entrance of Pangaea Palace. In his hand is a stack of papers and a pen secured on a clipboard.

This end of the parade is crowded but the cheering isn't as lively as the kings and queens have yet to reach it. The prince takes advantage of this to approach the residents and sound his pleas. The citizens throw disgusted and disapproving looks at him, distancing themselves when he nears them.

Fukaboshi

Citizens of Mary Geoise! I am Prince Fukaboshi of Fish-Man Island. We ask for your sympathy so the merfolk may have a voice in the council. We just need a few more signatures for our petition!

The crowd cringes at the thought of a lesser creature wanting to take part in the Levely. They whisper among themselves suspiciously, wondering how a fishman like him has managed to find his way on their precious land. They make an effort to keep away further lest they inhale the dirtied air that he exhumes.

Nearby, Sanji emerges from an open window and jumps stealthily on the rooftop of a nobleman's mansion. He squats and victoriously tosses a small bag of stolen condensed seastones in his hands before hiding it away in his harem pants. He smiles heartily in satisfaction, patting it.

The next part of his plan is to create another diversion so he can sneak his way back to Doflamingo. But it seems like the job's already been done for him.

He eyes the royal guards as they run towards the palace entrance which, for some unknown reason, has a bigger commotion than the colour bomb tactic that he pulled earlier. He isn't one to complain. This gives him plenty of opportunity to scale down the walls and blend back into the crowd without causing the mischief himself for once.

Before he can act, he hears booing and a man's cries for help. Curious, he takes a running leap off the edge of the rooftop and hops onto another mansion to get a better angle. When he looks down on the road, his vision focuses on a particularly large fishman. His heart-shaped eyes bulge out of his eye sockets and his tongue sticks out lecherously.

Sanji

Ooooh, he's huge!!

Scared but determined, the mermaid prince bravely steels himself to continue sounding his pleas to the now angry locals.

Fukaboshi

Please, your small contribution would change the lives of many! All we ask is a few seconds of your time and–

A piece of fruit hurls over the crowd and hits him square on his face, splattering its juices all over his front. The residents cheer on then continue their bombardment and booing. The mermaid prince protects his face with his wide forearms. He tries to back away fearfully but finds that the furious locals have him surrounded.

Sanji’s expression turns into fury, immediately feeling his blood boil from the sight.

Royal Guard

Alright, that's enough fun, everyone! You there, clear off! The rulers are coming through shortly!

Fukaboshi

But I am a–

Royal Guard

The rulers who matter, fish scum. Leave before I have you arrested!

Fukaboshi

N–no! Our people are living beings too! Just like you, your friends and your families!

Royal Guard

How dare you compare me with the likes of you! Men, seize the–

The mermaid prince hears a light clatter on the ground underneath him. Before he can properly look, he is suddenly engulfed in thick purple smoke, along with the residents and the royal guard around him. They cough from the gas and blindly run away from the source, some trip and fall onto the ground clumsily. When the smoke clears, the fishman prince has vanished.

—

Sanji holds onto Fukaboshi as he leads them away from the crowded grounds of the main entrance and through the isolated road parallel along the palace walls. The mermaid prince, still coughing, rubs his eyes to clear his vision then gasps when he sees that he is holding hands with a human who had apparently rescued him from the wrath of the locals and getting arrested.

Fukaboshi

Wh–who are you?

Sanji doesn't reply to play the silent slave that Doflamingo wants him to be. If he's being honest with himself, he is unsure on what to do next but he knows that he doesn't have time to escort the prince all the way out of the country.

As they run, Sanji's hood falls off, enabling Fukaboshi to get a glimpse of the famous Hoof of the Soaring Dragon burnt on the back of his neck. The mermaid prince also can't help but stare at the fresh bite marks and bruises all over his otherwise smooth skin.

Fukaboshi

You're a slave, huh? It's very brave of you to do this but won't you get in trouble?

Again, Sanji doesn't reply. He simply keeps his eyes forward and his haki focused to ensure the prince’s safe escape.

Fukaboshi

Hey, why don't you come with me?

At that, Sanji's eyebrows shoot up in surprise at the sudden offer.

Fukaboshi

A number of our citizens are liberated slaves. We can offer you sanctuary! I'm sure my father will be more than happy to shelter you. In my opinion, we need more humans at home.

Though… not everyone shares the same views…. There are some outdated laws but I'm trying to purge all the obsolete ones…. Unfortunately there's been a lot of resistance from our own people….

Sanji feels the presence of royal guards on patrol ahead. He pulls Fukaboshi down a narrow alley between a couple of extravagantly decorated shops then takes another turn to lead them away.

Fukaboshi

Can't talk, huh? Are you not allowed to?

Sanji takes pity on the prince’s nervously rambling state. He finally gives in and nods in response.

Fukaboshi

I see…. I uh…owe you my thanks. I didn't realise it's this bad up here. I was hoping for an audience with any of the World Nobles and to get signatures for a petition…. And maybe even an opportunity to sit in the Levely.

Sanji slows his pace to walk alongside the fishman and get a good look at him, intrigued with his story.

Fukaboshi

I know, it's silly to do this head on. My father and siblings think this whole venture is dangerous and all for naught but if I can just listen in on one of the talks, I might get more ideas on how we can better appeal to have a seat in the council. This whole campaign is really–

The blonde stops in his tracks and pushes him forcefully against the alley’s stone wall.

Fukaboshi

Oww! What are you doing?!

Sanji places a finger on his own lips to tell him to be quiet. He leans himself against the same surface and watches the far end of the alley.

Not long after, they see a group of residents run past, no doubt to join the parade. He guesses that the rulers are probably nearing the palace entrance any moment now which means he is running out of time though he couldn't help but be interested in the intentions of the noble prince. He pushes himself off the wall and faces Fukaboshi.

Fukaboshi

You're really good at this. Do you usually sneak around?

Sanji gives him a cheeky smile and makes a gesture with his hand, trying to say “maybe”. Then he shuffles through his pocket to offer him a clean cloth.

Fukaboshi

Erm…what’s that for? Do you need me to wear a mask?

The blonde rolls his eyes, resisting every urge to sarcastically remark, “What would that do, hide your fishman identity?!” but Doflamingo's voice, “Too much trash talk from your mouth, mi alma,” echoes in his head. To make himself clear, he reaches out instead.

Seeing that he’s trying to get to his head and thinking that he will somehow hide his features in it, Fukaboshi lowers himself and gasps when Sanji cups his jaw and begins wiping his face clean from the dirt that the residents had created for him. The mermaid prince is too stunned and speechless from the man’s gentle and caring touch. Having made his point clear, Sanji offers the cloth to him again to tell him to clean the rest himself. Fukaboshi understands and follows through, taking the fabric from his hand.

Fukaboshi

Tha…thank you, friend.

As he continues to wipe himself clean, Sanji points at the clipboard tucked under his arm.

Fukaboshi

What? You… want to sign it?

The blonde eagerly nods, smiling brightly at him.

Fukaboshi

O–oh, wow. Yes, yes of course! Every single one helps!

He passes the clipboard and a pen which Sanji takes and quickly scribbles his name onto it.

Fukaboshi

As far as I know, you're the first human to ever volunteer. I appreciate it, friend.

Imagine if one of the kings or queens signed it! It'll be worth a hundred signatures, maybe more! If only….

Sanji grins at him, trying to say that he's happy to help. He returns the signed petition to him.

Before Fukaboshi can read his name, Sanji grabs his hand once more and leads them away. This time, he changes direction.

—

Back in the slow-moving palanquin, Doflamingo is reading a book to entertain himself and distract his mind. He then feels the pillowy seat next to him sink.

Doflamingo

Did you get what you needed?

Sanji

Yes~

The Warlord sighs in relief as he shuts his book close and tosses it on the side. He is unsure how Sanji managed to sneak inside but given that there are no disturbances from the parade, he doesn't question it. He simply wraps an arm over the other blonde’s side of the seat. Feeling particularly cuddly, Sanji leans against him and rubs his cheek on his chest affectionately.

Doflamingo

You are well aware that they will inspect you, right? And this carriage, before you can even step foot in there.

Sanji

Yes.

Doflamingo

That means you can't hold onto more of Caesar's colour bombs and your newly acquired seastones.

Sanji

What do you take me for? It's all sorted out. Don't worry your pretty blonde head about it!

Doflamingo smiles warmly. He lowers down and plants a soft kiss on his forehead before resting his chin on the top of his head. He finally allows himself to relax, having his favourite person return safely in his arms.

Doflamingo

I never doubted you for a second.

—

Fukaboshi was snuck into the palace and straight into the vast empty room where the council will be held. He had been cramped into one of the large cabinets that originally had numerous plates and other kitchen utensils stored in it for the staff's easy access. Sanji had speedily relocated them somehow, along with the inner shelves to make room for him. The cabinet is huge in size but because of his stature, it's still a tight fit so they had to get rid of his bubble.

He's been waiting in the same spot for an hour now with nothing happening. He begins to wonder if this is a trap which makes him extremely anxious. He knew he had an immediate crush on this handsome slave and was too shy to say no to being led here. He's okay with the fact that this just makes him look an even bigger fool though he may have some regrets later if he gets discovered.

His tail is starting to feel sore, and his fins itchy and dry. He considers stepping out momentarily to stretch out and investigate but then there is a sound of the massive entrance doors opening and closing. Nervously, he peeks through the keyhole.

Suddenly, the cabinet doors swing open and he is face to face with a tall man wearing a pink feathery coat and red pointed sunglasses. He has a nasty snarl on his face. Fukaboshi recognises him immediately as one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea. He gulps nervously.

Fukaboshi

Uh…

The mermaid prince sees a familiar figure pop up from under the Warlord's coat. Sanji grins and waves at him cheerfully.

Fukaboshi

H–hi…? I uh…got your condensed seastones and these uh… bombs. Do you need them?

Sanji shakes his head but squeezes himself to get past Doflamingo's looming figure to retrieve the clipboard from Fukaboshi’s hand. He passes it over to the Warlord.

Doflamingo

What?

The other blonde gestures for him to sign it so Doflamingo takes the clipboard, quickly skims his eyes over the texts of the front page then peruses through the stacks of papers.

Doflamingo

This is a petition for the Neptune family to take part in the Levely and all future political gatherings.

Fukaboshi

Y…yes, Sir.

Doflamingo

This deserves to be burnt.

Fukaboshi

No, please!

Sanji lightly tugs Doflamingo's sleeve and curls a finger, gesturing for the Warlord to come closer, batting his long attractive eyelids to him seductively.

Doflamingo

Well…if I get a kiss from you first, I'll sign.

As the Warlord bends down, Sanji snatches the clipboard off his hands and whacks the top of his head with it. Then he shoves it and the pen into his chest impatiently.

Doflamingo

Ouch! Fine, FINE!

Just…easy. Since you asked me to do it, of course I will.

This is a very odd but victorious sight for Fukaboshi. He never imagined that one of the rulers would actually sign the petition, just as he wished. In his mind, this risky trip to Mary Geoise has already paid off. Having the king of Dressrosa on side would greatly benefit his people and already guarantees an audience with one of the World Leaders at the very least. He knew that this man had great influence as a Warlord and as a former Celestial Dragon. He watches him take the opportunity to properly read the front page this time, hovering the pen over the lines side to side.

Fukaboshi

You're not what I expected, Your Highness.

Doflamingo

Hmm?

Fukaboshi

I see some good in you.

Doflamingo raises an irritated brow at him while Sanji grins teasingly, jabbing his side with his elbow.

Fukaboshi

P–please don’t take it the wrong way! I meant no offense! But the things I hear and read in the news… well….

I just didn't expect you to be like… this. Your friend here is the very first slave I met who looks genuinely happy to be one.

Doflamingo

Keep talking and I'll throw this into the fire.

Fukaboshi's lips thin into a line. He gulps nervously.

Doflamingo

And don't call him that. He's a free man.

Fukaboshi blinks at that. When Doflamingo finally scribbles his name, Sanji pulls the Warlord by the collar and gives his cheek a quick peck in gratitude.

Doflamingo offers the signed petition back to the mermaid prince but before he can get his hands on it, the Warlord pulls it back.

Doflamingo

Listen here and listen closely. We're in the middle of a mission and, unfortunately, you're in for the ride. I don’t know why my little pet here decided to drag you into this mess and insisted that we help you, so don’t get any wrong ideas.

No matter what happens, you will stay in here quietly for the full duration of the council for the day. Do you understand?

Fukaboshi

Y–yes, I understand.

Doflamingo

Now, when I close these doors, I will secure it so no one can open it. Do not attempt to leave or make a single noise until we come back for you. Are we clear?

Fukaboshi swallows nervously.

Fukaboshi

Clear as day, Your Highness.

Doflamingo

If you so much as wag your little tail, I'm going to keep you in here and starve you to death.

Sanji impatiently takes the clipboard off the Warlord, whacks his arm loudly with it and finally returns it to the mermaid prince.

Doflamingo

Ow! Calm down already. I just need to make sure he knows what he's in for.

Fukaboshi gratefully takes the signed petition and studies it. His eyes widened in astonishment to find not one but two signatures of infamous ruling kings on the front page. He looks up to Sanji who winks at him but before he can say anything, the Warlord shuts the cabinet doors closed and seals them with his invisible strings.

—

Sanji and Doflamingo later re-enter the room. This time, they are part of the line of kings and queens who take their seats to represent their countries. And so marks the beginning of the Levely.

Fukaboshi peeks through the small open keyhole. With a very limited line of sight, he doesn't really see much but he identifies a few long standing participants such as Ham Burger and Nefertari Cobra. Much to his relief, his Warlord ally has claimed the seat closest to the cabinet where he hid. The apparent ruler of Germa Kingdom sat comfortably on his lap, in disguise, playing the part of an eye candy. Many of the rulers’ stare at them with bulging eyes and mouths agape through the first couple of hours of the council.

Voice

I must say, this is highly unusual of you, Doflamingo.

Fukaboshi can't really see or recognise the voice who speaks out but the room falls silent.

Voice

You never bring anyone along to the Levely. Yet here you are with one and…a very pretty little thing at that too.

For the very first time, Fukaboshi hears the Warlord's menacing chuckle. He feels the scales through his body tremble at the deep sound.

Doflamingo

Do you have a problem with it, King Wapol?

Wapol

Not at all! I'm just wondering if he's for sale? Would you be up for a trade?

Doflamingo

No.

Wapol

Come on! If not him, does he have any relatives? Siblings?

Doflamingo

Actually, y–

Sanji discreetly rams a bruising heel of his foot onto Doflamingo's calf bone under the tablecloth. The Warlord takes a sharp breath in, fights through the urge to scream out in pain and replies as calmly as he can.

Doflamingo

If you want your own, you are free to attend my auction at Sabaody Archipelago. Other than that, keep your grubby hands to yourself, worm.

Cobra

I'd like to remind the council that this is a discussion of worldly concerns so we may better the lives of our loyal subjects. And not despicable human trading.

Wapol

Come now, Nefertari! I'm not the only one thinking about it!

Doflamingo, I'm certain that you didn't bring him here for no reason. This is clearly an advertisement for your stock! And a beautiful one too. Surely you would do us the honour of… sharing… this fine specimen?

There is a murmur throughout the room. It scares Fukaboshi how many of them are agreeing along with King Wapol. They fall silent once more when Doflamingo finally replies.

Doflamingo

You're right.

The rulers stare at him, surprised that for once he voices an agreeing answer.

Doflamingo

He is here for a reason. I brought him along so he can crawl over you in your sleep to rip that big mouth off yours and slit your throat.

There is a sound of scrambling chairs, and the crashing of various plates and glasses as Wapol yells out death threats and curses at Doflamingo. Some of the other rulers begin arguing among each other about the concerns of slave trading and the Celestial Dragons’ contribution to the matter. Chaos unfolds and fights ensue.

Fukaboshi can no longer understand what's happening to the scene before him. Left and right, he sees furniture being tossed around. Some had tea or wine spill over their garments while some were rolling over the table, beating each other messily.

Some of the panicked rulers scramble to hide themselves from the fight. In two instances, someone tried to open the cabinet where he hid but to no avail, thanks to Doflamingo's efforts in securing it.

When Fukaboshi glances towards his friends, he sees various items hurled towards the tall Warlord. The man simply flicks his fingers to send the incoming projectiles back to where they came from with his invisible strings. During the chaos, the mermaid prince sees Sanji whisper something in Doflamingo's ear before kissing him on the cheek and slipping away.

The royal guards eventually interfere and the rulers settle back onto their seats, albeit looking a lot filthier and less presentable than when the Levely started. Fukaboshi sees Sanji return to Doflamingo's lap but no one else is all the wiser.

—

When the first of many talks finally concludes for the day, kings and queens retire back to their chambers for mealtime. Fukaboshi waited patiently inside the cabinet as instructed, but it's getting extremely strenuous as he hasn't stretched out nor visited the toilet for the entire day. Thankfully, Sanji and Doflamingo return to free him as they promised and sneak him into their newly assigned ensuite inside the palace.

Sanji and Fukaboshi sat quietly at the dining table, listening to Doflamingo's conversation with the palace worker by the door. He kept it just slightly ajar, enough to communicate through so he could conceal the rest of the living space behind his large figure.

Palace Worker

Just the usual portion for yourself with a plus one, my King?

Doflamingo

Triple it.

Palace Worker

I…wh–what? Are you sure, my Lord? …That's quite a lot. Enough for a family of ten, my Liege.

Doflamingo

…Yes. I've been eating a lot. Trying to uh…work out.

Palace Worker

I–I see!

Sanji covers his mouth to stop himself from giggling out loud but his shoulders shake violently. Fukaboshi enjoyed the sight of him and couldn't help but smile along.

They see Doflamingo wave his hand towards them, desperately gesturing for the blonde to shut up. This just worsens it and Sanji practically falls onto the floor, rolling side to side with both hands covering his reddened face. The mermaid prince grins at his clumsiness and snickers as quietly as he can.

Doflamingo

I'm just…you know, quite famished.

Palace Worker

R–right.

Doflamingo

Just…trying this uh…new diet.

Palace Worker

It's really no trouble, Your Highness! We will have your food ready within an hour. Unfortunately there will be a bit of a wait due to the large order.

Will you be eating in the main dining hall with everyone or would you prefer to dine in private?

Doflamingo

Just in here.

Quietly, Doflamingo shuts and locks the door. He snaps an annoyed look at the now laughing blonde on the floor.

Doflamingo

What?! What's so funny?!

Sanji

You–you realise that we're here for the entire week, right?! Prince Fukaboshi will be leaving later tonight but they're going to be serving us the same amount of food three times a day for the full duration of our stay!

Doflamingo

Oh…shit.

Sanji

And you used yourself as an excuse?! A fucking–HAHAH–“diet”?! Now you can't take it back because they'll be suspicious! You have to eat most of it!

I know you eat a lot but…ten, Doffy! A serving for ten!!

Doflamingo buries his face into his hands and painfully groans.

Doflamingo

Wait, why can't you help me? It's partly for you!

Sanji

No, I can't! I'm acting as your slave so I have to maintain my form to look malnourished and somewhat mistreated. You have to finish most of it!

Doffy!!! You're going to come out of the Levely looking like a balloon boy!

Doflamingo

Fuck. I really did not think this one through. Ugh….

Sanji continues laughing out loud.

Doflamingo is genuinely hungry after the long day but he suddenly feels sick thinking about how much food he has to force feed himself for the rest of the week, knowing full well how the other blonde feels about wasting a single scrap. He walks to the dining table, pulls up a chair next to Sanji's and sinks into it in defeat.

Fukaboshi feels guilty about his involvement in all this. He observes the Warlord brooding over his fate as Sanji continues to tease him for it.

Fukaboshi

I owe you my thanks, friend. You’ve done quite a lot for me and my people already. You really don't have to feed and shelter me. I'm happy to go on my way.

Doflamingo

Don't be a reckless idiot. The whole city is celebrating right now so sneaking out an unwanted large fishman like you is downright impossible. From the palace, no less.

If you get caught, so do we.

Sanji

He's right, dear.

Sanji finally pulls himself up from the floor to sit on his own chair.

Sanji

There's no point right now. You'll just get arrested and god knows what they do to fishmen up here in captivity…regardless of status.

In the meantime, what better way to hide yourself than under their own noses? I'll personally help you leave the city tonight, don't worry. So relax, make yourself at home, and eat as much as you can when the food arrives…or else Doffy here won't be able to fit through that door before the Levely is through.

Doflamingo scoffs at that and opens the book he'd been reading from the palanquin. Sanji hops off his chair and starts making hot drinks at a nearby station.

Fukaboshi

Your Highness…

Sanji

Call me Sanji. You've seen my name on that petition already.

Fukaboshi

Err… Sanji. I hope you don't mind if I ask but…what do you hope to accomplish from this Levely? My family wishes to have a place on the council for the survival and bettering the quality of lives of our species. And thanks to your signatures, we have a guaranteed place in it now, but after seeing all that…I'm not so sure anymore. Why does the king of Germa want to join these? It doesn't seem…effective for what it's meant to be.

Sanji hums to himself, thinking of a good response while Doflamingo simply keeps his nose to his book and flips a page over.

Doflamingo

They're not always like that. We purposely riled up Wapol to start a fight.

Fukaboshi

You did? Why?

Sanji

Did you learn much today, Prince Fukaboshi?

Fukaboshi

Truthfully? I learned that a lot of humans are not to be trusted…. No offense….

Sanji

None taken! Because you're right. It’s an invaluable insight.

Fukaboshi stares at him, intrigued at his reaction. Sanji sets down a tray with a pot of tea, and milk and sugar on the side.

Sanji

Germa is in desperate need of allies. My late father's old friends don't want anything to do with me, and I certainly don't want to involve myself with them. So…here we are.

Sanji distributes teacups among them before finally circling around the table to reclaim his seat on the opposite side of Fukaboshi, next to Doflamingo. The Warlord sets down his book to pour drinks.

Sanji

I came here so I can see for myself who I can trust and who to fuck over. I need to read people with my own eyes. Sending over retainers or spies would just complicate matters. Hence…

Sanji gestures both of his hands over his outfit.

Fukaboshi

You're… pretending to be a slave?

Sanji

Yes.

Fukaboshi

I…I'm not sure that I understand what that would do.

Sanji

You can get a sense of a person's true nature by how they treat people who they consider “lower” than them. I could have pretended to be a palace worker, a cleaner or maybe even a beggar, but since owning slaves is a fad here, it's the best choice.

I need to know what they’re like–their morals, their personal values, who’s most likely to stab me in the back, who is most likely to sacrifice themselves to save their people–that sort of thing. These make up the fine lines between winning a war and losing it, between building prosperity and falling into poverty.

Fukaboshi remembers King Wapol, and how the rulers fell into a fight among each other when the topic of slave trading was brought up. The tactic suddenly makes sense. His mother believed that unity between humans and merfolk can be achieved through understanding and trust but he knew very well that that takes time. It sounds like Sanji's requirements for the survival of his people are in need of a more immediate action and forcing a controversial topic into the talks creates a reliable shortlist of potential allies to start off with. Already on the first day, they have effectively collected vital information that not only benefits the king of Germa but also the Warlord and himself as well. He can only imagine what more they can achieve from the remaining days of the Levely during their stay.

Doflamingo sips his tea while reading his book, flipping to the next page with his index finger.

Doflamingo

Fucker looks good hanging off my arm too.

Sanji

Oh, and yes, that too! It’s the first time I've seen you in your formals–sexy as fuck, I say. How hot did we look together?!

Doflamingo

We still do, mi alma.

Sanji

Too bad it won't last long since you have to eat so much. Oh, how I will miss your pretty body….

Doflamingo

Ugh…

Fukaboshi begins to feel a small pang of jealousy but he shakes his head at the thought. He looks down and twiddles his thumbs, thinking deeply. Secured with the garment around his waist, he sees the cloth that Sanji had given him earlier. He admires it for a moment before the smaller blonde finally speaks out.

Sanji

Don’t hurt yourself. Spill it, your Highness.

The mermaid prince shyly looks up as the smaller blonde takes a sip of his own drink. He stammers the next question.

Fukaboshi

I couldn’t help but wonder…. How long have you two been together?

Doflamingo’s expression remains impassive as he keeps his gaze on his book while Sanji simply leans on his arm and chuckles lightly. It looks as though they’re both used to getting asked this question.

Sanji

Oh, my prince. We’re allies but we’re not exclusive lovers, if that’s what you’re really asking.

Fukaboshi

O–oh…. Sorry, I just thought… because you seem inseparable, even in private….

Sanji

You’re very cute, aren’t you?

Fukaboshi

I–you think that I’m–what?

Sanji

Hey, Doffy~

Doflamingo

I am not having a threesome with a fish.

Sanji

Oh, come on! How do you know that you don’t like it if you don’t try it?

Doflamingo

I’ve tried it plenty, thank you. It’s just too slippery for my taste. Gets really hard to find your footing, you know?

Sanji

Ooh! I kind of like the sound of that! Tell me more~

Fukaboshi

This…this conversation is not where I thought it was going to go.

Doflamingo

If you want to ask him out, just spit it out, man.

Fukaboshi didn’t realise that his scales could go vividly red. He feels his fins hackle up involuntarily. When he makes the mistake of glancing at Sanji, the blonde is leaning on both palms of his hands on the table, smiling brightly at him and waiting eagerly to hear his next words.

With a shaky hand, he reaches into his pockets and quickly brings up his bubbly coral, nearly dropping it clumsily in the process, to inflate a clear donut around his waist. Sanji blinks at him in surprise. As soon as the float is formed, the mermaid prince flees quickly into the bathroom, slamming the door behind him. The two hear him practically hyperventilating on the other side.

Sanji

Doffy! Look what you’ve done!

The corner of Doflamingo’s lips twitch slightly as he tries to conceal a smile. He sips his tea casually and flicks over the next page of his book.

—

Far beneath the White Sea, Doflamingo gasps for air as he drags himself out of the blue oceanic water on all fours, pulling the figure of the blonde look-alike onto the safe sandy shores of Jaya. His arms tremble madly as he coughs seawater out of his lungs, barely able to keep himself up.

A powerful wave suddenly engulfs him and lifts him up, forcing him to release the stranger. The body of water shifts and swirls around in a vortex, squeezing his figure tightly above ground. He immediately feels weak and powerless inside it. With gritted teeth, he looks through the partly broken lenses of his sunglasses and freezes at the sight of a pointed trident on his cheek. Weidling it is a familiar mermaid of large stature, afloat on his usual donut bubble.

Fukaboshi

Doflamingo.

The Warlord practically spits at him.

Doflamingo

Prince Fukaboshi.

Fukaboshi moves closer to him until he's inches away from his face.

Fukaboshi

It's “King” now, actually.

Doflamingo

Well then…congratulations are in order, Your Liege.

Would it by chance have anything to do with you waging war on my kingdom?

Fukaboshi

Maybe.

Doflamingo chuckles softly until Fukaboshi pushes the trident against his face, piercing his skin. The Warlord drops his smile.

Fukaboshi

Doffy…where’s Sanji?

----------

Bonus: Full Artwork

I changed up the design of Sanji's Germa throne in this story. The shape of the skull's eyes and added rings around the horns resemble Doffy's sunglasses and earrings respectively. The altered design symbolises their long standing relationship, which goes way back before Zoro came into the picture.

41 notes · View notes

zosan-secondchances · 19 days ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: Part 22

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26

On board the Numancia Flamingo, two passengers watch as the mad aura of green flies their way. Stealth Black steps forward, dragging his tongue across his lips.

Sanji

I have sorely missed this. I'm dying for another round~

Doflamingo

No. I need you to go below decks and wait.

Sanji

What the fuck, Doffy?!

Doflamingo

He's after me to get to you. If he does, it's all over.

I can't lose you again.

Sanji

There you go getting all mushy with me again. Don't you think–

Sanji could feel another surge of sharp pain run through his skull. His head twitches when he fights it, baring his teeth at Doflamingo.

Sanji

I–I already decided to be with you! I'm not going to run!

Doflamingo

No, but he will. Don't complicate this, pet.

Sanji

Seeing that I won't get another chance of free will when the drug wears off, I think I'll do whatever the fuck that I want.

Doflamingo

Sanji!

Zoro pulls his blades over his head to attack the tall Warlord. As he nears, Sanji jumps up and places himself between them. Armament haki covers his arms as he catches the swordsman's weapons in his hands, blocking his attack.

Sanji

Afternoon, love! Ready to die?

Zoro

After you.

Zoro's rage empowers him. Mirror images of himself appear behind his figure and he swirls nine blades towards his opponent, sending a powerful blast directly towards the Pirate King. Sanji grins widely at the sight and welcomes the full force of the attack with arms held wide open. He gets cut and hurled across to the bow of the ship, smashing through the mast. The tall structure collapses to the side, slowing the ship's speedy escape.

The swordsman stomps over to him angrily as his arms and blades turn dark.

Zoro

I've met a giant snake. Twice now. Yet somehow you turn up to be an even bigger snake than she is.

You're fuckin' dead to me.

Sanji laughs as he pushes debris off his body and jumps up onto his feet. He smirks at him playfully. Blood dripped freely from the top of his head then down his face.

Sanji

Show me everything you got, Demon Warlord.

Zoro charges towards him but suddenly his body freezes abruptly. He turns his head with difficulty and sees Doflamingo holding him by the strings.

A shade of black smears across the ship as Sanji punches Doflamingo across the side of his head. He crashes down the lower levels of the ship.

Sanji

He's MINE!!! Don't get in the way!

Sanji shouts over the damaged hole of the deck. Having heard no reply from the presumed out of action Warlord, he returns his attention back to the swordsman.

Zoro and Sanji didn't hold back. They exchange attacks with intention to kill behind each vicious strike, damaging the top levels of the Numancia Flamingo and cracking its very structural foundations in the process. They gave as much as they got. The fight was brutal, endlessly cruel and too even. Both opponents are ready to keep at it until there's nothing left of their own flesh.

Bloodied and bruised, Sanji manages to pin Zoro against the wrecked floor. His trembling hands shake against the swordsman's sharp blades as they push against each other.

Sanji

I've been looking forward to this–

Out of nowhere, he feels his heart thump as a flat single note reaches his ears. It's a different feeling to when the other occupant in his head fights back. This one calls out and creates a great sense of urgency to go after it. Then he sees a quick vision of Niji's point of view, under attack from an unseen source while Law holds him in his protective hands.

His eyes get drawn towards the shore where he sees Yonji extend his long cables towards the ground repeatedly, practically bombarding the entire area with his winch. The flat line noise in his head grows louder.

Sanji

N–NIJI–!

—

Law shields himself and the lifeless commander under the safety of a large mound of earth. He constantly replaces damaged pieces with whatever jungle debris is within range of his room as Yonji continues his everlasting attacks.

Sanji had warned him of this eventual fatigue. He had been unable to cut Yonji into pieces as he originally intended due to the commander’s unrelenting force. His powers are waning, and fast.

The doctor had slowed down Niji's heart rate to kill him as painlessly as possible. He meant to bring him back as soon as the opportunity presented itself to prevent permanent damage to his brain and actually taking his life for good. Unfortunately, he had accidentally dropped the commander's cubed organ next to his foot to protect their bodies from Yonji's assault. The endless aggressive attack had proven impossible to counter and fight against. He increasingly becomes worried about the state of Niji's already weakened body.

Grown impatient, Yonji retracts his hands and slams his feet against Law's defensive earth shield under which the doctor's entire body shakes and nearly collapses. He begins punching into the rock and jungle debris directly, digging through faster than Law can repair the shredded layers.

The green commander manages to punch a hole through. Law gulps nervously at seeing the man's murderous face through it. He sees Yonji pull his arm back, aimed directly towards him.

From a distance, high pitched noises echo through the open blue sky, similar to that of a hawk announcing its arrival. Law and Yonji look up and see what look like red and pink meteors heading their way at great speeds. The green commander tense nervously.

Yonji

Oh…FUCK–!

The red meteor smashes into Yonji, sending itself and the commander through the fiery jungle, damaging and toppling the wilderness in its wake.

The pink one crashes into Law's defensive mound. Within the ablaze aura, he finds a woman with pink hair wearing a butterfly-shaped cape. He instantly recognises the distinct Germa’s “66" mark on her thighs. She kicks the earth off with a single swipe of her leg and pins Law roughly against the ground. She grips him tightly by the shoulders.

Law

Wait–wait!! You're Reiju, aren't you? I'm on your side!

The woman glares at him behind her intimidating but elegantly crafted helmet. He picks up Niji's heart from the ground and holds it up to her quickly.

Law

This is Niji's heart. I can bring him back!

Reiju narrows her eyes at him suspiciously but her brothers catch their attention. They glance towards the jungle and hear Yonji's cries when Ichiji absorbs the jungle's hot flames into his chest, snuffing out wildfire from a huge area within their immediate vicinity, then sends a cone of fire to the green commander who struggles to block the force with his arms crossed.

Ichiji

You've seen battle too much, brother! And you're not wearing your helmet. How uncool.

Yonji

Shut up! And don't get in my way!

Ichiji

It's high time you retire. Have you considered babysitting instead? Unless…you’re the one who needs their services.

Ichiji blasts the last of his flames and flies up into the sky. He circles around and extends his leg out and stomps against Yonji’s crossed arms. The green commander slides a distance backwards, crashing through rocks and burning trees.

Ichiji

Because you’re being a real baby right now! A big, ugly, uncool baby!!!

Yonji

Stop it!!!

The two continue their onslaught deep in the jungle. Reiju rolls her eyes and returns her gaze to Law.

Reiju

Fix up Niji. Fuck us over and I'll melt your eyeballs, Surgeon of Death.

Law

…We wouldn't want that now, would we? I'm here to help you and your brothers.

She releases him, straightens up and runs to Niji's lifeless body. She cradles him in her arms and kisses his swollen forehead softly.

Reiju

Oh, my baby brother…what have you done?

Law kneels next to them and begins to return Niji's heart into his chest.

Law

How did you get past Doflamingo's Bird Cage?

Reiju strokes Niji's disheveled hair out of his face and caresses his cheeks lovingly. Her lips tremble and her sad eyes fill with tears.

Reiju

We only got here this morning but couldn't find anyone and the city. I hope we're not too late. How did this happen? He's so cold….

Law

The commander told me to kill him to send a distress signal so you can find us. It's been too long…. I'm afraid–

Reiju

Do what you can, doctor. Quickly.

Gently, she settles Niji onto the ground and stands. Blasts and explosions can be heard from the battlefield, followed by the sounds of Ichiji crying out in pain.

Reiju

Ichiji is powerful but Yonji is more practiced on the battlefield for the last ten years…. I have to help him.

Doctor, if my brothers’ reports are accurate, are you able to bring both of them back? Niji and the Pirate King, I mean.

Law

Yes.

Reiju

Confident, aren't we? I like it. Then…I will leave them in your hands. We will handle this one.

Law begins resuscitating Niji.

—

The Numancia Flamingo sails dangerously close to the edge of the White Sea where Doflamingo's indestructible strings await their demise.

In the midst of the struggle, Zoro whacks Sanji across the forehead with the blunt of his sword handle. He rolls their bodies to pin the blonde under him, never removing his blades against the other's reinforced clawed hands.

The need to be at his brother's side causes Sanji's hair to turn from jet black into golden yellow. Behind them, his bright blue eyes return, staring at the swordsman pleadingly.

Sanji

M–my ever caring, loving Marimo….

Mellorine, I'm so, so sorry that I hurt you….

Zoro freezes at the sight of tears streaming down the blonde's face. His armament haki disappears involuntarily without him realising it. He holds himself steady, unsure on what to think or do with the sudden change. He growls angrily and yells at him with a furious snarl.

Zoro

I don’t–I don’t understand!! After all we've been through!!! I was ready to spend the rest of my life with you! Stop playing with my feelings!

With a shaky hand, Sanji removes the haki from an arm and caresses his face gently, running his thumb soothingly on his cheek. Zoro flinches but doesn't pull away.

Sanji

It's a tall ask… but I need you to save my brother… please. Promise me that you'll look after my family.

Zoro

Why the hell would I do that?! I’m fuckin’ ending this right here, right now!

Sanji

I love you, Zoro.

Zoro’s expression drops. He could have sworn that his heart skipped a beat for a second.

Sanji loosens his grip around his sword, opening himself to him to welcome one final blow. The blonde’s haki fully dissipates and his bare skin gets sliced open from the sharp blades. The swordsman can feel that his own weapons are practically getting pulled into the blonde's chest, aimed straight for the heart. Slowly, one pierces his skin. As blood oozes out, Zoro grips its handle tightly, preventing it from going further.

Sanji

This will never end….

Sanji fights to pull Zoro’s blade into his own chest once more. Their arms shake violently from the increasing tension.

Sanji

…But I’m going to need you to finish it.

Zoro

Fuck this.

Sanji

Huh–?

Zoro throws all his swords onto the deck, grabs Sanji's wrists and slams them above his head. In one smooth motion, he clashes his lips onto his.

Sanji

Mmph–?!

Sanji flinches as he feels Stealth Black attempt to overtake his mind. Unable to move his body, he shuts his eyes tight and gives into Zoro's affection.

From his lips, searing bright light glows outwards. His form resumes back to his old self as the streak of light travels through his body.

They hear a light clatter as the canister of Raid Suit falls and rolls onto the wooden floor. Sanji had assumed his original form.

Zoro pulls himself to look at the state of the blonde who smiles broadly at him.

Sanji

You…you brought me back! How?!

Zoro

Y–you’re…you're you!!!

Sanji

I'm me!

Come here~!

Zoro

Ngh!

Sanji pushes himself up to give Zoro an unexpected loving kiss. The swordsman melts into it, missing every fibre of his being. Eventually, the blonde pushes him and speaks in a hurry.

Sanji

Marimo, I don't know how but Niji's dying. I have to get to him before it's too late. I need you to get Corazon’s heart from Doflamingo in the meantime. Can you do that for me? For Traffy?

Zoro

I have a lot of questions…but I’ll do it if you promise to throw away that cursed Raid Suit of yours as soon as we're done here… Sanji.

Sanji blinks dumbfoundedly and his jaw gapes open in surprise. His heart melts at the sound of his name from Zoro's voice.

Sanji

You know my name? Who told you?

Zoro

No one. I met your siblings and figured it out.

…It uh…must take a real idiot to work it out as long as I did….

Sanji giggles as his eyes soften. He pokes his tongue into Zoro's mouth to share a brief but deepened kiss.

Doflamingo

I hate to interrupt this… lovely… reunion. But we still have some unfinished business to attend to.

They hear the cock of a gun from the far end of the ship. Doflamingo aims his revolver at the swordsman and shoots.

Sanji pushes Zoro off and redirects the bullet with the swipe of his reinforced claw. The swordsman rolls with the momentum to collect his swords and pushes himself up to a ready stance.

Doflamingo

It's not over yet. I'm not letting you get away with this, Demon!

Zoro

You've hurt him long enough, Doflamingo. Leave this place while you still can and maybe, just maybe, I won't kill you.

Doflamingo reloads his gun once more and shoots. Zoro blocks his attack with his sword. When the tall Warlord does it again, Sanji takes a turn to swipe the bullet out of the way to protect the swordsman.

Side by side, Zoro and Sanji take steps forward as Doflamingo continues to fire at them. They redirect each bullet his way but the other Warlord dodges left and right. Having grown angry and irritated, Doflamingo flicks his hands to wrap both of them in his strings. He hoists them up so they dangle helplessly under the ship’s last standing mast.

Zoro attempts to slice the strings with the blade in his mouth but finds that he's unable to. The sinews appear to have great resistance to getting cut.

Sanji manages to wriggle one of his hands free and wraps his clawed gauntlet around the coil that held him in suspension. Surprisingly, the strings are sliced almost effortlessly and he lands on his feet safely on the deck.

Sanji and Doflamingo

What the fuck–?

Sanji inspects the armoured plating that Niji had installed just before their arrival to Skypiea. He peels back one of the damaged layers and sees condensed seastones embedded under the thick armour. He notices the same bumps under the elegantly shaped patterns on each of his knuckles.

Sanji

Niji, you beautiful bastard….

Doflamingo

You dare use the very weapon that I gave you against me?!

Sanji

Nah-uh! It's not your weapon anymore! Niji made a better one because he's a good brother. And he made two and they match and they’re goddamn pretty! So suck a dick!

…Not mine though. We're definitely breaking up.

Doflamingo's temper rises, showing those defined veins in his forehead from tension. He roars wildly and sends more strings Sanji's way. The blonde steps on the side to dodge and backflips off the ground. He lands onto the vertical wooden support next to where Zoro is held in suspension, smashes his fists into the pillar to keep himself in position and finally slices him free with his other clawed hand. The swordsman smoothly lands onto his feet and immediately charges at the tall Warlord.

Doflamingo

You little shits!!!

Zoro dodges Doflamingo's oncoming strings left, right, up and around like he's gliding through a wind tunnel gracefully. When he gets in close-up range, they exchange a series of physical blows.

Sanji

Zoro! I can keep him down with my hands! He'll be powerless! Get me there!!

Zoro jumps back and lowers himself to deliver a powerful vortex with his three swords. Doflamingo and his strings get caught up in the blast and he staggers, giving Sanji an opening.

Zoro

Go, Sanji!!!

Without hesitation Sanji takes a running leap and rides the powerful swirling wind that the swordsman formed. He speedily flies through and flips himself to wrap his legs around the back of the Warlord’s head. Quickly, he brings a clawed hand around his neck, strangling him. Sure enough, Doflamingo's strings dissipate, including the Bird Cage that trapped Skypiea within.

Zoro and Sanji

FUCK YEAH!!!

When the tall Warlord staggers and drops onto his knees weakly, Sanji takes the opportunity to dig his free hand into his pink feathery coat.

Sanji

Marimo, I got it!!!

He holds the Heart of Skypiea above his head victoriously while keeping Doflamingo in his weakened state. He waves his hand as high as he can, hoping to get Law's attention all the way from the island.

Sanji

TRAFFY!!! I GOT CORAZON!!!

Zoro

TRA-GUY!!! BRING US BACK!!!

Zoro and Sanji

TRAFFYYYYY!!!!

—

Blasts and explosions continue to destroy Skypiea’s lower islands from the battle between Reiju and Ichiji against Yonji. From afar, Law hears the sound of his own name called out several times from Doflamingo's ship, instantly recognising Zoro and Sanji’s voices. Nearly tripping from the forces of the Vinsmokes’ various powerful abilities and the aftershocks that follow, he scrambles towards the shore. He dodges jungle debris as they explode nearby until finally he steps into the cloudy sea, as far as he could get away without weakening his abilities.

Law

SHIT–SHIT–SHIT–FUCK–THIS–SHIT!

When he summons his room, Yonji’s dangerous coils bind him and his entire body splashes into the shallow clouds. He immediately feels powerless and struggles to keep his face above the surface to keep breathing.

Yonji's winch tightens and Law feels a couple of his ribs snap. He screams.

Ichiji

Don't be an ass!!!

Ichiji manages to throw his brother against the ground in a death hold with Reiju’s assistance. Stubbornly, Yonji keeps his winch around the struggling doctor in the distance. When the green commander forces himself to stand with his brother hanging around his neck, his sister trips him by wrapping her legs around his thighs to keep him immobilised.

Unable to knock the man out unconscious through brute strength alone, Ichiji succumbs to giving him a form of attack that he knows his brother is especially prone to.

Ichiji delivers the most powerful and irritating noogie that he can muster onto Yonji’s head, shuffling his hair messily.

Ichiji

Hey, are you listening?! This is uncool, Yonji! Uncool! You were cool before and now you're super uncool!

Yonji growls and struggles to free himself from his siblings to no avail.

Yonji

Let… me… go!!

Ichiji smirks at the man's crazed state. He digs his fingers into his skull even harder.

Yonji

AUUGH!!! STOP IT!

Reiju

Ichiji, this isn't a game and we can't stay like this forever! We have to help Sanji and his doctor friend! Yonji, where the hell is your helmet?!

Yonji growls and makes inaudible noises from the back of his throat, refusing to respond.

Ichiji

Fucker probably didn't bring it as usual.

Reiju

Oh…Yonji.

In the midst of the struggle, Yonji is able to kick Reiju across her face with his knee. A part of her helmet breaks off and gets thrown to the side. She manages to keep herself steady and glares at him with a fuming face. She immediately returns her hold of his legs and practically crushes them between her figure.

Yonji

ACK–!

Reiju

Yonji–THINK! Niji died and Sanji is in trouble. We need your help! Yonji!!!

Yonji roars. He forces one of his arms free from Ichiji's grip and directly places the palm of his hand against his brother's helmet.

Ichiji

Brother, don't–

Yonji's fingers rear up like snakes and wrap themselves around Ichiji's helmet which cracks under the immense pressure. While keeping a hold on him with one hand, the red commander grabs his brother’s extended wrist with his other in an attempt to pull it away. When he realised that it's useless, he repeatedly punches Yonji's head and face blindly, bruising and cutting him.

Out of nowhere, Niji's crawling figure comes to view as he lifts himself up off the ground towards them.

Reiju

Niji, you just got back! Stay down! He's dangerous!

Niji hurriedly shuffles in his shirt and pulls out the bag of seastones that Sanji had entrusted in his care. He procures a small piece and shoves it into Yonji's screaming mouth. He holds his hand there, keeping his mouth shut until he swallows.

There was a tense silence from the anticipation, except for the sounds of Law's writhing body and gasping of air in the shallows of the White Sea. Yonji's body eases after some time and he retracts his winch back into his hand, freeing Law and Ichiji from his deathly binds.

Confident that their brother won't fight back, Reiju, Ichiji and Niji release Yonji who spits and coughs to clear his throat and catch his breath. They see Law struggle to stand. The doctor doesn't delay. He attempts to summon his room once more but the orb in his hand flickers in and out due to his weakened state. He keeps trying anyway.

Reiju

Ichiji, Yonji, the island is still under attack. Ichiji, snuff out fires everywhere you can and Yonji, I need you to check in to see if the locals are alright. Get rid of Doflamingo's forces while you're at it, both of you.

Ichiji

Roger that.

Yonji

Reiju… I… I couldn't control myself. I…

Niji

Save it…houseplant.

The blue commander attempts to sit up but collapses unconscious on the ground in front of them instead.

Yonji

Niji!!! I–I’m sorry… I–

Ichiji

There's time for that later, Major. Leave him with me. I'll keep him safe.

At that, Ichiji hoists Niji into his arms and stands straight. Reiju follows suit and gives Yonji an angry glare.

Reiju

There will be consequences for your actions, little brother. We'll have a trial later as soon as we get back home.

Yonji opens his mouth to say something but ultimately decides not to. He looks down guiltily and hunches his shoulders to look smaller.

Ichiji

What of you, Reiju?

Reiju

The doctor is weak. I'll need to bring him closer to get Sanji out of this mess. If not, I'll have to take on Doflamingo myself. The doctor's abilities are…unique to say the least. We might just be able to survive this with his aid.

Ichiji

Good luck. And stay alive.

Yonji

Give them hell, sis.

Reiju winks at them as she takes a running leap towards Law. Surprised, the doctor gasps as he is carried into the air in the arms of the pink commander.

—

Sanji

TRAFFY–!!!

Doflamingo

Don't think I'll let you get away with this!

With difficulty, Doflamingo grabs Sanji's wrist that holds the crystal heart aloft. He swings him down, smashing the blonde's body against the hardwood deck but blonde's hold around the artefact remains strong.

The Numancia Flamingo’s keel cracks from the impact as the rest of the ship’s supportive frames begin to split from the culminated damages of the battle.

Sanji

AHH!!

Zoro

Motherfucker!!!

Zoro charges towards the tall Warlord and swings his blades across. Free from Sanji's seastone-embedded claws, Doflamingo regains his strength to counter. He throws his hands forwards.

The area directly around Zoro suddenly turns into strings. Just as he jumps out from the thick of it, the sinews stick onto his body. A cocoon forms around his figure and swords, trapping him inside it helplessly. Doflamingo brings his opposite hand across, sending Zoro to the far end of the ship. His wrapped body gets stuck against the wall.

Zoro

Curls!!!

Doflamingo flicks his fingers. A web of strings covers Zoro's lower face. The swordsman struggles about but to no avail. He gasps for air with difficulty, trying to catch his breath through his covered mouth and nose.

Sanji

Zo…ro…!

Doflamingo

Enough of this.

He takes a looming step towards Sanji and aims his revolver at his chest.

Doflamingo

I will kill you, after all. Moira should be able to help bring you back. Then your body and soul will be bound to me for life.

Sanji swallows nervously as he holds the crystal heart with a protective hand over his chest.

A familiar blue orb suddenly surrounds them as Reiju flies in with Law in her arms.

Law

Mr. Prince-ya!!! We're getting you out!

Doflamingo

YOU–!

Law

Ack–!

Sanji

Traffy! Reiju! You're just in time!!! I'm so glad to see you!! Did you find Niji?!

Reiju

He’s fine, brother! Yonji too!

Sanji

Great! Get us out of here!!

Law flicks his wrist to teleport him away. His body vanishes from sight in an instant but the crystalised heart that he held stayed floating midair. It rises and glows brightly.

A beam of light emerges from the artefact. It takes the shape of a young man with short blonde hair wearing a dark fine cut suit and a necktie. He lands roughly on his bum with a thump onto the crumbling deck. The crystal heart dims and falls, bouncing off the top of the stranger’s head and landing safely on his lap. He picks it up curiously.

When he looks up, they see that he has a curly brow over his visible eye, shaped similarly like Sanji's.

The young man gasps in surprise and stares at everyone and everything around him in confusion. He yelps at the sight of Doflamingo's revolver aimed directly at his chest.

Young Man

Wh–what?! Where am I?! Who the hell are you?! What's going on?!?

Zoro

Mmph mmhm mph, mmphmm?!

(What the hell, Traffy?!)

Young Man

M–Marimo?! Why are you old? Why are you tied up? What is happening?!?

Wait, is–is that you–? R–R–Reiju?!

Doflamingo

What the fuck did you do, Trafalgar?! Who the hell is this?!

Law

H–how should I know?! That's never happened before!

Doflamingo

It's your ability!

Law

I just meant to blink him out!

Young Man

WILL SOMEONE JUST TELL ME WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?!

Reiju

Little, little brother…?

The last of the Numancia Flamingo's masts collapses and it tips towards Doflamingo and the young man on the floor. The Warlord jumps out of the way but not a single person helps the stranger, assuming that he has the same powerful observational haki that Sanji possesses, or even a practiced one just like everyone else in this fight, fully confident that he'll just dodge out of the way on his own with ease.

Until they were proven wrong. The young man watches the wooden pillar as it falls and hits him square on his head, almost comically slow. He passes out on the deck, pinned under the long and heavy structure. Everyone stares at him awkwardly in disbelief.

Zoro

Mmphf mphhmphfft…

(Stupid idiot…)

The deck under them gives as the ship finally snaps into two. The young man and the crystal heart by his figure slide between the wreckage parts of the ship and out on the other side, free falling into the depths of the White Sea.

Zoro wriggles and manages to free his mouth to shout after him.

Zoro

SANJI!!!

Instinctively, Doflamingo runs and dives into the clouds after him. He fights through his weakened state to grab the unconscious young man in the depths and secures him in the protective hold of his arms.

As soon as Doflamingo hits the cloudy sea, Zoro is released from his binds when the other Warlord's strings dissolve away.

Zoro doesn't dally. He quickly leaps off the ruins of the ship after them.

Reiju

Demon Warlord, wait!!! I can fly you down!

Law

Zoro-ya, I can't help you if you're in the clouds!

It was too late. Zoro, Doflamingo and the stranger plummet past the cloudy sea and straight towards the blue ocean far below.

—

It was suddenly very quiet.

Somehow, Sanji had lost consciousness and entered what seemed like a dreamscape where he's flying through stars and cloud nebulas similarly coloured to that of Law's room ability. He could have sworn that he saw a familiar figure zoom past him hurling the other way. It looked like him but a lot younger, and for some reason had terrible taste in fashion.

Now he lies still in darkness and his senses are practically non-existent. Slowly, he hears muffled sounds around him. First it was the familiar sounds of seagulls squawking above him, then it was the sound of the oceanic waves that rocked his body side to side slightly. He begins feeling his skin again. His face feels hot like he's exposed to the burning high sun. And finally, there are multiple voices around him. They sound like they're in the middle of a heated argument among each other.

Sanji

Hnnggh…

Voice 1

Wait–everyone, shut up! Look, he's waking up!!

Voice 2

Wh–wh–what–what–what do we do?!

Voice 3

He looks like.... Could it be that our Cook-san travelled in time somehow?

Voice 4

Robin!! I'm scared!!

Voice 5

Yohohoho! It happened so quickly that my eyeballs nearly popped out! …If I had any eyes. Yohohoho!

Voice 6

He’s a time traveller?! That's suuuuuuperrrrr!

Voice 7

Oi, Sanji! Is it because of something you ate? Is breakfast ready?! Can I have some of it?!?

Voice 1

Luffy, now's not the time to think about that stuff! Hey you, do something!

Voice 8

Just what do you expect me to do here?! Slice him up?

Voice 1

I don't know! Maybe? He looks dangerous. He could be after my–our… Beri.

Voice 8

It would be my pleasure.

Voice 3

Hold on, Zoro. Let's just wait to learn more. If it is Cook-san, we don't want to hurt him.

Sanji

Zo…ro…?

Sanji opens his eyes weakly and is met by eight blurred silhouettes looking down on him against the cloudless bright sky. Blinded by the bright sun directly above him, he blinks a couple of times and sits up. He suddenly feels the exhaustion of the day throughout his body, thanks to the chaotic events that unfolded not too long ago. Apparently it's not even breakfast time which he thought was odd. He rubs his eyes to try and clear his vision and ease his severely throbbing headache.

Sanji

Oww…my head….

Wh–where am I? How long have I been out…?

Voice 1

You…don't know? We're in the Grand Line. You're only out for less than five minutes.

Voice 2

Y–yeah! There was a sudden bright light from the sky when Sanji…

Voice 7

When Sanji came out to say breakfast is ready!

Voice 1

No…he was just out for a smoke break!

Anyway, he somehow disappeared and you…well, it's like you swapped places or something?

Sanji

Swapped…?

Voice 8

Hey. What the hell did you do to shitty cook? Not that I care.

Sanji

Is that you…Zoro?

There was a moment of silence. When Sanji finally pulls his hands from his face, he sees the silhouettes before him form into shapes. He jumps in surprise and almost squeals.

In front of him is none other than the infamous Straw Hat crew.

The blonde's jaw drops agape, staring at each and every one of them in bewilderment. He recognises their faces based on news articles and photos that his siblings took during the days when he'd stalk Zoro's personal affairs so he could surprise him with marriage proposals by bombarding him with gifts and such.

But what's odd is that the Straw Hats all look young and full of vigour other than the animate skeleton that hid shaking to the bone behind the large man with blue hair, and both Nami and Robin more or less looked the same. And of course, his favourite Marimo. Though this one had both eyes open, looked like he's still in his early twenties but still has the same long scar that spans his chest.

Sanji

What the actual ever living fuck…?

Luffy

Hey, Sanji.

The blonde slowly drags his eyes to him, unbelieving the scene before him and thinking that he's still stuck in that dreamscape. He has so many questions and he doesn't know where to start.

Luffy

Where's my meat?

----------

Bonus: Closeup and full still

I'm so happy that I finally drew all three heroes!

...Remember that time I said this is when the Straw Hats meet Old Sanji? Yeah, I haven't forgotten.

29 notes · View notes

zosan-secondchances · 23 days ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: Part 21

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26

Over on the shores of the White Sea, Sanji stands on top of a large boulder with the crystal heart in his hand, holding it tightly against his chest as he watches the Warlord who is standing on the shallows of the cloud sea.

Sanji

Our very last deal, Doflamingo.

Your brother for my own.

Doflamingo smiles widely at him, his teeth baring hungrily. He walks up towards Sanji and stops just below the boulder, looking into the man’s transformed red eyes.

Doflamingo

And you?

Sanji cocks his head to the side playfully and drags his eyes up and down Doflamingo’s figure. He raises his free arm, opening an open palm hand to him.

Sanji

Of course.

The Warlord hums in pleasure as he reaches out to gently take Sanji’s hand in his. He places a gentle kiss on his knuckles.

Doflamingo

Consider it done.

—

Den Den Mushi

Purupurupurupuru

Zoro flinches awake at the noise. He opens his eye weakly and finds one of Law's transponder snails near him and all three of his swords piled neatly next to it. He pushes himself up with difficulty and grimaces at the sharp searing pain across his abdomen. When he looks down, he sees a bloody dagger sticking out of his stomach. He places a hand over it to pull it out then screams at the intensity of the pain. He looks at his red hands and realises that his robe has been torn to shreds and his torso is riddled with cuts and bruises from his fight with Sanji.

It was, by far, the quickest battle they ever had. He had made the mistake of underestimating him having never seen the blonde in that form. He vaguely remembers what happened but he distinctly recalls the man's streaked black hair with those murderous maniacal eyes behind it.

Sanji had fought differently–he was much stronger, had the ability to fly and go invisible, and looked as though every cut he gave and received brought sexual pleasure. It occurred to him that this may have been less of a fight and more as a form of play for the other man. Towards the end, Sanji had bitten him on his neck just to get a taste of his blood before delivering a fatal attack with the blade currently embedded inside him.

Den Den Mushi

Purupurupurupuru

Zoro steels himself as he grips the handle of the dagger. He quickly yanks it out with a hiss then covers his open wound with his hand in an attempt to stop the bleeding.

He collapses onto his back, panting. As he lay there to recover, he notices that he's surrounded by fire and a thick cloud of smoke. The island, like every place where they had battled in the past, became collateral damage as a consequence for their actions.

Den Den Mushi

Purupurupurupuru

With a groan, he forces himself on his fours and crawls to the transponder snail to answer the call.

Den Den Mushi

Click

Zoro

T–Traffy…?

Law

Zoro-ya! Are you there?! He took Cora-san!!

Zoro

Wh–what?

Law

The heart! I meant the heart!!!

Where are you?!

Zoro

I…I don't know. Curls and I fought and… I don't remember.

Law

Can you make it back to the city? We need to help God and the Skypieans.

Zoro

Shit.

With a hand on a knee and the other holding the snail, he forces himself up and looks around. When a gust of wind blows past him, a section of flames part, giving way to the view of the White Sea. Docked by the cloudy shore is none other than the Numancia Flamingo itself.

Zoro's eye widens at the sight. His blood boils as he drops the Den Den Mushi to pick up his swords. He gasps for air with difficulty and takes a couple of steps towards the general direction of the ship. An animalistic rage builds up inside of him, creating a dangerous aura of green which engulfs him.

Law

Zoro-ya, are you still there?!

Look, we've both been stabbed on the back but I think he had a reason–I don’t understand it either.

Zoro-ya, can you hear me? Come back to the city. Commander Niji is here with me! We can come up with a plan to stop the Pirate King and Doflamingo!

Zoro doesn't easily put his faith and trust in anyone. He'd never felt more betrayed in his life. In flashes, he remembers every moment he and the blonde had shared leading up to this point–the teasing, the jabbing, the play fights, the intimate times and the whispered promises of the future. He felt happy and whole. Then everything crumbled in an instant. Everything they did, he looked at Sanji behind rose-coloured glasses. Now, he still sees red–but they're not the colour of love.

Zoro

This is all his fault….

I will fuckin' kill him.

He secures the blades around his waist.

Law

Swordman-ya, I need you to calm down. Don't do anything brash.

There is a sound of screaming in the distance through Law's line, followed by the yelling and shouting of Wyper's familiar voice, ordering his troops of God's Guards and residents of Skypiea to retreat.

Law

Fuck!! We don't have a lot of time!

Zoro-ya, talk to me! Zoro!!!

Zoro's eye glows in anger as he takes one final step while unsheathing his swords and biting down on Wado.

Zoro

DOFLAMINGO!!!

He yells at the top of his lungs as his green powerful aura surges larger, fusing with the red burning flames of the jungle around him. He lunges into the sky towards the pink ship floating on the White Sea.

—

The city is ablaze and its citizens are under attack from Doflamingo's men. The flames spread like wildfire through tall buildings and Shandian teepees as Skypieans run for their lives. God's Guards fight back bravely, overwhelmed by the force.

Zooming past crumbling remains of charred buildings, Law runs side by side with Wyper who is leading the charge. Niji held onto the doctor's coat while riding on his back. Both of his legs appear to have been amputated.

The doctor shoots an angry glare up to the familiar sight of Doflamingo's Bird Cage against the open sky. He feels fear for the survival of the island's inhabitants.

Wyper

Everyone, get to Nola!!! Now!!! Follow Gan Fall!

Holy barks as Conis pushes Gan Fall onto his back. The dog howls as soon as the blonde woman hops up to join them, then takes off.

As Gan Fall and the Skypieans near the exit of the valley, they see a large man with yellow hair and an open shirt land in front of the gates, blocking the only way out. On his chest is Doflamingo's Jolly Roger. Gan Fall pulls back his javelin and throws it, only for the opponent to dodge out of the way. He eyes the old man dangerously.

Bellamy

You the one they call “God”? Your reign ends here!

Law

Bellamy…. One of Doflamingo's lackeys. Be careful, Wyper. He's strong.

Conis

Stay back! Don't touch him!

Wyper

Conis!!

Wyper jumps high and shoots a beam of powerful light from his bazooka, blasting the exit to create a wider passage for everyone. Bellamy scrambles out of the way and gets thrown off in the explosion.

Wyper

Old man, I got this one. Be safe!

Conis, take care of each other!

Conis

I wi–AHH!!

A giant net shoots towards them. Holy quickly rears up and blocks it with his body to protect his passengers but his face and legs get captured in it. Gan Fall and Conis tumble off the dog as he collapses roughly on the ground. Out of nowhere, more of the Warlord's men surround and attack them.

A burst of blue electricity suddenly shocks the raiders and they fall, twitching and writhing about on the ground. Everyone follows the source of the spark with their surprised eyes and sees Niji with two of his fingers pointed over Law's shoulder, almost out of breath.

Conis

Th–thank you!

Gan Fall

You look familiar….

Law

Later, God! You need to go!

Wyper quickly frees Holy out of the net and lifts Gan Fall and Conis onto his back. They hear Bellamy scream as he launches towards them. Wyper places himself in between and blocks his punch by holding his bazooka across his arm, allowing the giant dog to flee.

Bellamy

Get out of my way or I will gut you!

Wyper

I'd like to see you try.

The two begin to exchange a barrage of attacks at each other as the crowd moves past the city and into the thick jungle with Gan Fall and Holy leading the way. Law follows a distance behind.

Law

Commander, what the hell happened to you? How did you find us?

Niji

What do you think? The fuckin' Warlord happened–that’s what! He removed my legs so I couldn't get away. I had to crawl here. It took fuckin’ forever. If that giant dog hadn't found me, I wouldn't have made it in time.

Law

How did you cross cloud rivers with those sky sharks?

Niji

Mate…get me a beer and I'll tell you the whole story. It wasn't easy. It involved a lot of swinging on vines.

If the current situation isn't as dire, Law would have laughed, remembering their game where Zoro bellowed out animalistic noises as he swung over the jungle.

Wyper glances at them to ensure everyone's safe escape. Bellamy takes advantage of his blind spot and delivers a powerful punch fortified with armament haki. The warrior staggers backwards and drops his bazooka accidentally. The other man raises his opposite fist above him to chain his attack.

Niji flicks up two fingers and points them at Bellamy, sending a surge of electricity his way. It stuns the man, making him shake violently from where he stood. Wyper takes the opportunity to pick up his bazooka and whack the side of his head, knocking him unconscious.

Wyper

Thanks!

Niji gives him a weak nod as Law finally runs past the gates. The warrior joins them to catch up.

As they run, one of the watchtowers’ support pillars gives. The structure crashes, raining burning debris down their way.

Before Law and Wyper can act, Niji points his fingers upwards to zap the collapsing watchtower into smaller pieces around them, practically dissolving the structure into a rain of charred mulch. They continue running but the doctor notices the blue-haired man's shaky hand and breathless condition.

Law

Stop helping, dumbass!

Niji

I can't. Doctor…stop. Stop! We need to help my brother. He's at the White Sea just east from here.

Wyper

I thought you two looked similar!

Law

Why on earth should we? He stole the Heart of Skypiea! He took away Cora-san’s gift!

Wait, why am I helping you?!

Niji

Doflamingo held me for ransom. He wanted your Corazon for himself.

And…my brother.

Law

I've just had enough of this self-sacrificial habit of his.

Niji

Law…I made a dreadful mistake. Doflamingo bought my brother as his slave. We have to get him before he puts on his Raid Suit. He might not have a choice. He'll be an emotionless soldier–like us without helmets.

Law

What?!

Law finally stops running and Wyper does the same alongside him.

Law

If he owns him, then Germa is as good as his.

Niji

Precisely.

Law

But how come you're fine? I don't see you wearing your helmet.

Niji

I uh…ate a condensed seastone just before my helmet broke. I didn't know if it would work but it seems potent enough. Though, I don't know if the effects last and how long for….

Listen, someone… something… has been slowly taking over my brother the more he wears his Raid Suit. I'm afraid that if he does it again this time…he will obey Doflamingo's orders without question.

I…I gave Roronoa Zoro his suit and knowing my brother, he'd have found out somehow.

Law

Why the hell did you do that?!

Niji

For emergencies…. He'll most likely change but at least he'll still be alive….

Trafalgar, please. Even without the Raid Suit, he can't survive Doflamingo. He doesn't have the heart to kill him with his own hands no matter how much he says otherwise.

Law groans out loud and readjusts his cap, thinking.

They hear Bellamy yelling after them from afar. It sounds like he managed to reunite with some of his crew and are chasing after the Skypieans.

Wyper glares at their general direction then looks at the two next to him.

Wyper

I don't get a lot of what you talked about but I understand enough to know that you have to go. I'd come with you but I can't leave my people. Will you be alright?

Law

I… fine. We'll go and get Mr. Prince-ya.

Wyper

And while you're at it, make sure you reclaim the heart. The old man may have trusted you enough to put it under your care, but it's an ancient artefact that originated here and I'd hate to see it used or destroyed by an evil hand. We don't know what it does.

Also…I don't want to see your beautiful face hurt, blue man.

Niji

…The fuck?

Law

It's a long story. If we want to succeed, we need to go now.

Commander, you said the Pirate King will change if he puts on the Raid Suit. What does that entail, exactly?

A nervous sweat drops on the side of Niji's brow. He purses his lips and swallows.

Niji

A ruthless assassin who takes pleasure in killing. The perfect soldier of war that our father dreamed of but never realised he had. He's a murderer, a thief and a psychopath.

We call him Stealth Black.

—

The Numancia Flamingo sets off with two passengers on board. Sanji secures the last of the sails as Doflamingo manned the helm. He steers the ship towards the closest known area where the White Sea ends so they may begin their descent.

Sanji

I assume that we're expecting company. Is it a really good idea to leave your men behind?

Doflamingo

They're disposable. Either they pull through and sink the island as I ordered, or they get themselves killed. It doesn't matter at this point. We just need time to get away. They'll serve their purpose.

Sanji

Good call. Shame the execution was poor.

Doflamingo

Excuse me?

Sanji ignores him and climbs the mast halfway up to get a good view of the burning island, on the lookout for anyone who may have followed them.

A sharp pain sears through his skull, accompanied by a deafening ringing noise. He yelps from the sudden sensation and grips his dark streaked hair, losing his balance and landing onto the deck with a hard thump. He writhes about and pulls his hair, groaning and moaning. He laughs at how good it felt.

Doflamingo frowns at the state of him from the upper deck.

Doflamingo

Get a hold of yourself. What's wrong you?

Sanji

Shut up. SHUT THE FUCK UP! He's fighting this so just give me a second!

He growls and pins his own head down against the wooden deck. The streaks of his dark hair flickers from the roots then out, turning blonde then black repeatedly. Eventually, the pain passes and he maintains his form, collapsing onto his back and gasping for air. He misses it already. He closes his eyes, and glides his fingers over his figure and hardened length, licking his wet lips.

Sanji

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Do it again. Come on.

He hears footsteps next to his head. When he opens his eyes, he sees Doflamingo looming over him with an unimpressed scowl on his face. He chuckles.

Sanji

Can I get my reward now… master? I feel so hot. I'm desperate.

Sanji gives him a devilish grin and runs his hand over the Warlord's exposed skin on his leg. Doflamingo's brow twitches in annoyance and pulls himself away.

Doflamingo

Now's not a good time, pet. Get up. I need your haki. We'll definitely get a following sooner or later.

Sanji

Hmm…no. Come on, climb over me, love. I need something in my mouth. Badly.

Doflamingo takes a sharp breath in surprise.

Doflamingo

You were angry… and you can say no to me. You're not supposed to be like this.

Sanji bites his bottom lip and runs his fingers down his neck.

Sanji

And…what am I supposed to be, hmm?

Doflamingo

Don't play. Explain yourself. Did you do anything different this time?

Sanji moans in pleasure as another surge of sharp pain sears through his skull once more. He grips the sides of his head as his eyes roll and his back arches from pure bliss. The colours of his hair flicker again.

Sanji

Fuck. FUCK! Here it comes~

He laughs maniacally, drool flowing from his mouth.

Sanji

He's really trying. I don't understand it but I think it's because this body is drugged. He's able to come through.

Doflamingo practically feels the veins in his forehead pop.

Doflamingo

You're fuckin' high right now?

Sanji rolls side to side, taking in the pain. Doflamingo grunts in frustration and walks away, returning to the helm of his ship.

After a short moment, Sanji's sensation calms. He stands and makes his way to the upper deck to join the other passenger.

Sanji

I'm sorry, darling…. Are you upset at me?

He wraps an arm around one of Doflamingo's long legs and leans his head against it.

Doflamingo

A little. I just want to get you back.

Sanji

Oh? You know that I find you fun. I'll go along with whatever you want to do.

Doflamingo

It's not you that I'm talking about.

Sanji

Hmm...of course I'm not. But didn't you say that we're disposable?

The Warlord briefly glances at him as he feels the other blonde relax against his leg. He sighs and cups Sanji's face with both hands. He shifts them so they're facing each other.

Doflamingo

No one in this world can ever replace you, Sanji.

Sanji cocks a curious brow.

Sanji

You're being weird today. I thought you'd be happy that I'm back?

Doflamingo's expression softens as he runs his thumb over the other blonde's lips.

Doflamingo

I am, pet. But I wanted him. Not you.

Sanji

Hmph. You're no fun.

Sanji pushes himself away and walks towards the stern. He leans against the railing and watches the island slowly get smaller.

Doflamingo

I have certain…regrets. And I'm not sure how to fix it.

Sanji

Motherfucker. I remember. It's a shame it wasn't me. It looked like fun.

And why the change of heart now? That's a terrible image of you. What would your subjects say if they saw you in this state?

He feels a hand wrap around his waist as Doflamingo turns him to look at him directly. The Warlord kneels down and leans his forehead against his. He stays there, sliding his hand up and down the other man's waist caringly as if trying to soothe him.

Doflamingo

I was so desperate to have you to myself that I destroyed everything we had built together.

Sanji stares at him in disbelief. His red eyes slowly fade into glassy bright blues and his hair settles into full golden locks. With his free hand, Doflamingo removes his own red sunglasses to lock their gazes together. He drops them and holds Sanji's hand.

Sanji

I loved you, Doffy.

Doflamingo

Sanji… I–

Sanji

But you harmed my friends, you took away my brothers…and you hurt me.

There is nothing you can do to fix this.

He squeezes the Warlord's hand before his head twitches. He flicks his hair back as they fully take a form of wavy jet black–any semblance of his yellow hair is gone. When he blinks, his sky blue eyes fade into deep scarlet red.

Doflamingo sighs in disappointment as he picks up his sunglasses and wears them.

Sanji

That was meant to be a goodbye but…never mind that.

I'm with you until the end, Doffy.

Sanji reaches out and caresses the other's cheek. Doflamingo slaps his hand away and stands.

Sanji

Now is probably a good time to tell you that Roronoa Zoro is currently on his way. It seems that he's bringing hell to you.

The Warlord isn't surprised. He walks to the railing and watches the island where a streak of green emerges from the burning remains of the upper jungle.

Zoro

DOFLAMINGO!!!

—

With Niji on his back, Law is standing on top of a small flying island that he had extracted from Upper Yard. He follows the commander's directions to go eastwards, constantly on the lookout for Doflamingo's pink ship.

Niji

Our sister's theory, Reiju, is that Sanji had developed this split personality as a coping mechanism due to past traumas of extreme sorts. He was so desperate to not become machine-like that he'd separated himself from it.

Law

Bodies need something to run it. So this other being probably filled the void that your brother left behind. Cases of dissociative identity disorder aren't unheard of but I have a feeling that this “Stealth Black” is meant to be Sanji-ya’s “true” identity if your mother hadn't done anything to ruin your father's experimentation.

I don't think this will be an easy road for your family. I saw the signs but I wasn't certain…. It's not exactly my speciality.

The bad news is that you'll never get rid of him.

The good news is that even if he does fully take on this other identity, the Mr. Prince-ya we know will still be somewhere in there. It might just get harder and harder to bring him back out but he will never be completely lost. He's a part of Stealth Black as much as Stealth Black is a part of him.

Niji's grip on the doctor's coat tightens, feeling a small semblance of relief wash over.

Voice

DOFLAMINGO!!!

Law and Niji glance around as the voice echoes loudly across the burning jungle.

Law

That sounds familiar…

Niji

There!

Niji points downwards where a streak of green aura bursts out from tall dangerous flames.

Niji

It's the swordsman!

Law

Hang on tight!

Law flicks his wrist and the floating earth takes a sharp turn towards the enraged man.

From the corner of his eye, Law spots another streak of green flying towards Zoro at a great speed. It collides into the swordsman’s aura, bringing him down.

—

Zoro and Yonji wrestle in the air before crashing down by the shores of the White Sea. The impact sends a blast of powerful wind as they both get blown off to roll in opposite directions.

The swordsman quickly gets on his feet as the other wipes blood off the corner of his lips and stands up tall.

Zoro

I don't know who you are but you need to get out of my fuckin' way.

Yonji

Not a chance, Demon Warlord.

Zoro lunges towards Yonji who brings up his hand to send long indestructible lines of metal from his fingers. The swordsman swipes them out of his way to and fro. When he feels a sharp pain from the hole in his abdomen, he falters. The other man seizes the opportunity to wrap him in coils.

From above, a large piece of earth comes hurling down over them. Yonji gasps in surprise as he uses his other hand to raise a clenched fist, smashing the rock into pieces.

Law and Niji burst through from the other side. The doctor swipes his blade across Yonji’s chest but the green commander dodges out of his way, letting go of the captured swordsman in the process. Niji follows up by flinging himself off Law's back to land directly on top of Yonji, pinning him to the ground. With a wild scream, Niji uses what's left of his energy to deliver a powerful surge of electricity throughout his body, shocking his brother to keep him stunned on the ground.

Niji

This is for being an asshole!

Yonji

Fuck…off!!!

Zoro pushes himself up with a huff and stares dumbfoundedly at the two siblings. Law runs to him and quickly sutures his wound close with his powers.

Law

Zoro-ya, leave us with Yonji! You need to catch Doflamingo and Mr. Prince-ya!

Zoro

That's–? What happened to Niji? What's he doing here?

Law

There's no time to explain!

Law flicks his wrists to enlarge his room to reach Doflamingo's ship in an attempt to teleport Sanji back. Before it can go further out to the White Sea, Yonji aims for the back of the doctor's head with difficulty and forces one of his hands to extend long cables. It shoots out, powered by Niji's electrical shock. Distracted, Law's room dissipates as he swipes the winch out of his way with his sword.

Law

Zoro-ya, just go!!! I'll keep trying to help from here!

Zoro

Thanks!

Zoro runs to the tallest protruding boulders he can find and launches off it.

Yonji retracts his winch and delivers another set of cables towards Law once more. Niji forces his brother's head into the ground in an attempt to keep him pinned but the green commander's elongated fingers wrap around the doctor's body, sending a surge of high voltage that stuns Law.

Seeing that he'd failed, Niji stops his electrical ability. Law drops onto his knees as smoke emanates from his sizzling body. Yonji takes the opportunity to swing himself around, punching Niji off him with his elbow. The green commander retracts his winch then climbs over him to pin him down.

Yonji

I told you to leave this place as soon as you get the chance!!!

Niji

I won't leave him! And I can't leave you like this!

Yonji

Then you're dead.

Yonji begins punching his brother repeatedly across his face, beating him into a pulp.

Free from the coils, Law finally summons his room ability and uproots large burning trees out of the ground. He swings his arms forwards, sending them towards Yonji who takes the full brunt of the damage. He flies far into the cloudy sea with the trees on top of him.

Law

Commander!

Law runs to aid the bruised and bloodied Niji who lay weakly on the ground, gasping for air with a gurgle at the back of his throat. His face is bruised and swollen, and his nose cracked. He coughs out blood to clear his throat.

Law

Niji-ya, hang in there. Don't fight. Leave him to me.

With great difficulty, Niji replies as Law begins to nurse his open wounds close.

Niji

N–no. Stop. We can't take him alone. He's the strongest out of all of us and has no emotions. In his mind, he's got nothing to lose…. We need my big brother and sister.

Law

How?!

Niji coughs out more blood. Law lifts him up to elevate him so he sits against him for support, stabilising his breathing.

Niji

Gonna n–need you to kill me….

Law

What?!

From afar, they see large waves as Yonji launches himself in the air.

Niji

It'll send a distress signal… They'll be able to find us.

Law…you need to be quick. There isn't time. There's no other way.

As soon as Sanji and Doflamingo get past the Bird Cage, he will crush the entire place. No one will be able to survive it.

Law

I–I don't know….

They see a ball of green fly towards them from above.

With a shaky hand, Niji reaches out and grips Law's wrist to get his attention.

Niji

Promise that you'll bring me back?

Law

Tch. You Vinsmokes just like throwing your lives left right and center.

With a flick of his hand, a gelatinous cube comes out of Niji's chest, leaving behind a dark square hole behind it. The commander groans at the odd sensation. When he looks into the translucent shape, he sees his own heart contained inside it, beating weakly. Law catches it in his hand.

Niji

That's ominous.

Law

Do you have any idea what you're in for?

Niji

…No. Just do it.

----------

Bonus: Static

44 notes · View notes

zosan-secondchances · 28 days ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: Part 20

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26

I have been practically crawling to get to this point of the story. I thought it deserved a cheeky animation. Enjoy!

Law

This is it.

Sanji nods in agreement.

Sanji

Yeah….

Law

We've found it.

Zoro remains quiet, looking ahead with the usual impassive expression on his face.

Law

I couldn't believe my own eyes.

Sanji

There's nothing else in the world quite like it.

Law

We've finally found a creature with a worse sense of direction than you, Zoro-ya.

Zoro feels his face heat in annoyance. He grits his teeth and yells back at them.

Zoro

Shut up! I'm not that bad!!!

Law

Yes, you are!!!

Zoro and Law begin tugging and pulling at each other behind Sanji, creating a commotion that makes Holy growl in frustration. The three had been riding on the back of the blonde dog for a couple of hours now and are starting to get sore and cranky. They’re currently travelling through a wide open path, seemingly getting nowhere. Sanji stands on the dog’s back calmly, carefully studying their surroundings.

Sanji

Wyper said that Nola's usual napping spot is a thirty minute dog run from the city. We should have been there by now.

Zoro and Law continue to wrestle, ignoring the blonde's words, too focused on grabbing hairs, pushing faces and whatever they can see and do that would irritate the other.

Sanji raises a brow and looks behind him to see why he didn't get a response. Upon discovering their tangled state, he rolls his eyes and returns his gaze forwards.

Sanji

Holy, sit.

The dog barks and obeys his command immediately. Zoro and Law yell as they tumble off the creature and land on the ground roughly. Their backpacks burst open from the fall, scattering their belongings around them. Sanji simply hops off and lands on his feet gracefully.

Zoro and Law

WHAT THE HELL?!?

Zoro

What is wrong with you, Dartbrows?!

Law

A little heads up would have been appreciated!

Sanji flicks his hair and smirks at them with a cheeky smile, resting one of his hands on a curved hip.

Sanji

When I talk, pay attention.

Zoro and Law

THE FUCK WE WILL!!

Sanji

Savages! You have no manners at all!

Whatever. Stay here–or get lost. I don't care. I'm going up a tree to get our bearings.

He crouches down on the ground and launches upwards, vanishing in an instant. While waiting, the two repack their fallen belongings, grumbling and tossing the odd rock and sticks at each other's heads whenever they see the opportunity.

They hear a rustling of tree leaves as Sanji jumps and swings down onto the ground. He unsheathes the blades from his claw gauntlet and fixes his disheveled hair.

Sanji

I had my suspicions and I'm afraid that they're correct. We've been going around in circles. For the last hour and a half at the very least.

Law

This is what we get for trusting a brainless beast.

Zoro

Way to get us lost, idiot.

Holy whimpers and droops his head sadly.

Sanji smacks Zoro and Law at the back of their heads with an angry snarl on his face.

Zoro and Law

ACK–!

Sanji

STOP IT! You're making him sad!!!

He clears his throat and straightens up as the other two nurse the bumps on their heads.

Sanji

Now, you two will apologise to him because he's actually taken us where we need to be.

Zoro scratches his head in confusion while Law taps his own shoulder a couple of times with his sword, deep in thought.

Sanji walks to the middle of the wide open path, turns to face them then holds his arms out, as if presenting something magnificent.

Sanji

This.

This is the width of Nola's body.

Law

What?

Zoro and Law stare at Sanji in disbelief then look left and right to process the news. After a brief pause, the swordsman eases and speaks.

Zoro

I know Nola's massive but….

Sanji

We've been going around in circles because she's coiled herself to sleep.

Law

Now that you mention it…

Law observes the treeline at a distance. He sees evidence of movement where Nola allegedly knocked down trees and glided over rock formations.

Law

You might be right. We've been walking in what may be her nest for ages and didn't even realise it.

Sanji

Right?!

Law

Zoro-ya, you said you've come face to face with her before when your crew got eaten.

Zoro

Yes.

Sanji

She did what now?

Law

Is this how big she really is? She's…enormous.

Zoro

To be honest…I remember her being a little smaller. Still massive in size but… I didn't realise she's still growing.

Sanji

They are ancient creatures. Thousands of years old. I don't remember reading anything about giant snakes dying of old age. I’m not sure if anyone knows when and if they stop growing at all.

Zoro

Huh.

There is a moment of silence as the three take in the information, still bewildered at how massive the snake really is. After a while, Law's expression turns into a sour frown as he brings his attention to Holy.

Law

Why the hell didn't you tell us that we're here?

Holy stands up and barks excitedly, his tail wagging wildly at him as if trying to explain himself.

Sanji

…Because we told him to take us to Nola's sleeping spot but didn't tell him to stop. That's why he's been walking around in it endlessly…. He would have kept going if we hadn’t told him otherwise.

Holy barks once more, as if agreeing. Sanji laughs and buries his entire body around his fluffy chest for a big cuddle.

Sanji

Because he's a good boy! Who's a good boy?! You are, yes you are!

The giant dog lowers his face to return Sanji's affection, rubbing his muzzle against him.

Zoro

No, he's not! He didn't tell us that we're here!

Law

I agree. If he was smart like they say he is, he wouldn't have taken things too literally–

Sanji

He’s a good dog who did what he was told. NOW, APOLOGISE!!!

Sanji delivers another smack across their heads, layering a secondary bump on top of their existing ones. Zoro and Law guiltily bow to the dog.

Zoro

We're sorry.

Law

Please accept our sincerest apology.

The blonde creature barks and wags his tail in appreciation.

—

Finding the giant snake took no time for Holy. They kept their commands concise and very specific. The dog had great tracking skills, so much so that Sanji considers getting one of his own. Law agreed, pointing out that there would be at least one member of the party who would actually follow his orders without question for a change.

When they hear loud slithering and hissing in the distance, they dismiss Holy to return home but not without leaving him a generous amount of snacks as reward for his work. They proceed to the source of sound beyond a hill, only to find that there is no sign of life aside from the occasional bird and small critter. Suddenly, it had gone quiet.

Law

How can something so huge be so elusive?

Zoro sees a large trench overlooking the White Sea nearby. He approaches it and cautiously peeks over the edge. It is layered with thick fog but when he squints his eye, he sees a thin line of a long cloud river at the very bottom. As he shifts his foot, he observes that the ground is loose, evident by the occasional boulders and trees that fall off the unstable ground along its lengthy span. He could barely see the debris splash far down below.

Zoro

NOLA!!

His loud voice echoes through the open earth for some time then it is quiet once more, setting an eerie sensation around them.

Sanji

Creepy. So cool.

The ground begins to rumble and they see something shine from far below. Large sharp eyes snap open, staring back at them with a ghostly glow behind the thick of the fog. Sanji and Law flinch at the intimidating sight.

Zoro

Can we talk to you?

The gigantic snake grumbles lowly in response as it scales up the rocky trench towards them. The three run away from the edge to make way as the Nola reaches the top, crashing over a vast area with trees and foliage. She coils herself comfortably around the hill then stretches her neck to look down on them.

Sanji

Holy shit. Holy shit. Holy shit.

She’s a lot bigger up close.

Law

What…what's the plan, Zoro-ya?

Zoro

Nola!! Do you remember me?

Nola lowers her head gently so her nose is at the same level as Zoro's. Unsure of her temperament, Sanji and Law keep their distance behind the swordsman as the snake carefully studies him, slightly poking her tongue out to sniff. Her giant pupils dilate as she makes an approving groan and shakes her scale in a friendly manner. She nods in response.

Zoro

Good. Nola, these are my fr–

The snake suddenly surges her head onto the swordsman. She makes cheerful purring noises as she rubs her cheek against him roughly.

Zoro

Argh!! Wait!!

Just as Holy did, Nola pins Zoro onto the ground to shower him with affection. The swordsman screams and yells, unable to move under the creature's mountainous weight.

Sanji tries to hide a giggle but ends up snickering and snorting. He shuffles through his pockets and retrieves his camera to take pictures of the suffocating swordsman.

Sanji

Second time’s a charm! They really love you up here, don't they?

Zoro

Help…me! Nola, you're crushing my body!

Nola pulls herself back and stretches her neck high and mighty. She roars a booming guttural sound so loud that it shakes the earth they're standing on. The three cover their ears to protect themselves. As noisy as it may be, it didn't seem threatening or territorial but is more of a greeting of sorts. When she finishes, she eases and adjusts her tail so they're under the protection of her massive coil, knocking down more trees and rocks along the way.

Sanji

If anyone asks, it wasn't me.

Zoro

Nola! We need your help.

The swordsman pushes himself up and pats the dirt off himself, ruffling his hair to remove loose dirt and leaves in it.

Zoro

We need to get to your old burrow. Do you remember where you were born?

Nola tenses, as if seemingly hesitating to respond. Sanji and Law can feel that she is eyeing them cautiously.

Zoro reads the atmosphere and speaks up.

Zoro

These are my friends. You can trust them.

Gan Fall said there might be some ancient ruins where your home was. We're not here to cause any trouble. We just want to see it and get out.

Nola coils herself a little tighter and lowers down, moving her head close to Sanji who freezes when the snake’s tongue touches his chest. The contact felt so light it was as if a feather brushed over his skin. He could practically see and smell her towering fangs from where he stood.

Sanji

Uh… hi?

Zoro

Don't panic. She's just getting to know you.

Satisfied, Nola turns her attention to Law who has a little sweat on the side of his brow. His grip tightens around the handle of his sword.

The snake recoils at the sight of his blade and hisses at him.

Zoro

No weapons. She doesn't like them. Drop it or put it away.

Not wanting to offend the snake further, Law throws his sword on the ground. Appreciative of the gesture, Nola continues to sniff him just as she did with Sanji. For some reason, she lingers close to him longer and begins purring deep happy noises from the back of her throat.

Law

Erm…what's going on?

Zoro

I don't know…. I've never seen her do this.

Sanji

I think she just really likes you. That's a first.

Law

What the hell do you mean–? Oi!

Nola begins rubbing her cheeks against him, forcing Law down on the ground.

Law

Ack–! My…bits!!

Sanji takes more photos, grinning widely behind the camera.

After an unexplained, very confusing and long cuddle session with Nola, Law frees himself by teleporting behind the blonde.

Law

For fucks sake–just tell her to take us to her old burrow!

Nola's massive head begins to make its way towards Law who teleports as soon as she gets too close for his liking. Her head chases him around as he zapped to and fro.

Not wanting to exhaust himself from his powers too soon, especially after Sanji's tutelage yesterday, Law succumbs to running around within the boundaries of her coil in panic, increasingly getting out of breath.

Law

Zoro-ya! Do something!

Zoro

Nola, wait! No! Bad girl! No–sit! Nola, SIT!!!

Law

She's not a dog, idiot!!!

The swordsman attempts to rescue Law but ends up chasing behind Nola's head instead, unable to keep up.

Sanji begins laughing uncontrollably, taking pictures clumsily as he collapses from not being able to breathe properly. When Law runs past him, he picks up his fallen sword and smacks him behind his head in frustration. The blonde didn't care and continued taking photos of the scene.

Sanji

Ah shit. It's almost out of film.

When he looks up from the back of the camera, the three are still in the middle of their everlasting chase. He smiles, warmed by how free and easy this all is.

His face suddenly falls from the realization that this won't last forever. But he wishes it could.

He sits on the ground and shuffles in his pack. He procures a pipe that he owns and the bag of greens gifted by Gan Fall. He lights up and smokes three buds just as instructed. He relaxes into it and shifts his mindset to focus on the now. He feels his mood brighten up slowly.

Zoro stops in his tracks to observe the blonde who looks as though he's just decided to have his very own smoking ceremony like they did yesterday. He likes watching him like this–relaxed and at ease, as if there's nothing in the world to worry about.

Until Law runs into his back recklessly, tumbling them down onto the ground where Nola takes the opportunity to cuddle both of them under her immense snout. They shout for help but notice that the blonde is now humming the tune of Bink's Sake as he enjoys his vice with his eyes closed, tilting his head side to side on beat.

When Nola has had her fill of cuddles, she slithers away to return deep below the trench. Zoro and Law were so tired that they didn’t question it nor chased after her. They approach the blonde who straightens up and gives them a warm smile.

Sanji

Playtime’s over already? Are you kids ready to go?

Zoro

Aren't we supposed to follow her? We need to make our way down there.

Sanji

There's no need.

Sanji glances around.

Sanji

It's…this way!

With the effects of the drug fully active, the blonde marches off while partly dancing. Confused, Zoro and Law follow him.

Law

Will please just tell me how you know its location?

Sanji

I don't. But Gan Fall’s instruction was pretty clear. He said that when we see her, we're supposed to follow the path of the “Rainbow Serpent”, so I smoked the stuff he gave me and now I can see the way ahead. It really does look like a rainbow serpent!

Law

You can…see it?

Sanji

Nola is positively glowing! So is her shredded skin. And this trail looks like it’s made of glitters and–ooh! A pretty butterfly!

No, no, focus! Rainbow. We're following the rainbow. I have to keep telling myself that or I'll–wait! That mushroom looks pretty cool. Oh, hey! The Marimo's hair is so bright!

NO! Focus! Marimo, Traffy, it's your job to make sure I keep focused!

Zoro and Law look at each other in confusion once more, but seeing as though they have no other leads, they follow the blonde who is rambling like there’s no tomorrow.

—

An hour passes as the trio continue their hike. The terrain where Sanji leads them seems to be going downhill. Through it all, the blonde never stopped gawking at absolutely everything everywhere.

Sanji

Wow. Woah. Woooow.

Law

Uh-huh…. Mr. Prince-ya, how much did you take exactly?

Sanji

Just the three.

Law

Isn't that a bit much? It's thrice as much as we took yesterday and we shared it.

Sanji

I'm just following Gan Fall’s instructions. I trust the man.

You two should get in on this. Shame I can't take photos through my eyes! Wait…can I?

Zoro

I think we're good. We trust you. Hey, do you need water?

Sanji

My ever caring, loving Marimo! Oh yes please, I'll have some water!

Zoro hands him his canteen. Sanji kisses his cheek in gratitude as he takes it, then walks off with his water without drinking it.

Zoro

Oh, I also wanted to uh…. Nevermind.

Law sighs in exasperation and rubs the back of his neck, glaring at Sanji who's still dancing to and from as he leads the way.

Law

As a doctor, I am intrigued. Enlighten me, what exactly do you see, Mr. Prince-ya? Do you see heightened colours? Any illusions? How can you tell where to go?

Sanji blinks and glances behind him, forgetting that he was in the middle of his twirls. He slows his pace to walk alongside the doctor.

Sanji

It's a bit different to the common recreational drug. A special Skypiean variant, I guess? For some reason, mostly everything just looks grey with this dose, but I do see saturated colours in specific areas like I said before–Nola, her old skin, the Marimo’s head for some reason, and these…pebbles on the ground. They look like bioluminescent plankton. I believe that it's all pointing the way.

Law

Interesting. And those skin and pebbles form a road?

Sanji

Exactly! My theory is that Nola and her ancestors made paths for themselves to avoid wrecking too much of the island. Less food if they're clumsy that way.

There have been several roads around us but they all seem to be forking to where we're going.

Satisfied with his answer, Law eases and glances behind him. He notices Zoro falling a little behind from trying to find a bottle of sake from his backpack. The doctor shuffles a bit closer and whispers to him.

Law

Sanji-ya…don’t join the Straw Hats. Join my crew instead.

The blonde raises an intrigued brow at him but picks up on the discretion. He keeps his gaze forwards as he takes a swill from Zoro’s canteen of water. He responds just as quietly.

Sanji

What part of “my kingdom is at war” did you not understand?

Law

We will fight for you. We will fight with you.

At that, Sanji plays with his goatee, thinking deeply.

Law

The Straw Hats are a chaotic bunch and you already know how we work. Zoro-ya’s crew won’t get together until a year from now but we’re ready right here, right now.

Hell, I hate to admit this and don't let it go to your head, but you’d be a great addition. You have a natural knack for adventuring. You’ve seen every Heart Pirates’ martial arts skills. You fight similarly, except your style has a bit of Okama Kenpo in it and you use your…whatever those are on your hands. You fit in well with us already.

Sanji

And…how do you expect me to run my kingdom from your ship, Captain Traffy?

Law

I don’t know, yet you somehow managed it on our way here, didn’t you? You will have assignments on board the ship, sure, but I don’t expect your sole focus to be just with the Heart Pirates alone. I’m happy to negotiate how much you’d like to commit on both parts.

I also know for a fact that you don’t like to stay in one place too long since you told me that you prefer to work in the shadows. Since we’re on the move all the time, the Polar Tang is the perfect place for you.

Sanji

Oh… my…god….. You’re actually serious about this? You’ve thought of everything through.

Law nods quietly with an impassive look on his face.

Sanji

Traffy, I’m flattered. I really am. And you know that I love your nakama. But what can you really offer me to even consider this? Did you forget that I’m a king and have all the wealth in the world to start my own army of pirates? I can pay to have your Polar Tang rebuilt a thousand times over.

Law smirks.

Law

Freedom to find the All Blue.

Sanji’s eyes widen at the doctor's ready answer. He stays quiet, staring blankly at the sparkling colours on the path before him. He opens his mouth as if to respond with a rebuttal but Law interrupts him.

Law

You won’t admit it, maybe not even to yourself, but deep inside, you still want to find it. Trust me. I know.

On top of that…there will be a loyal, unwavering, faithful crew behind your back…fully supporting you.

The blonde smiles warmly at the notion.

Law

And you'll have a certain captain by your side. The one who will find the One Piece and become King of the Pirates.

Sanji

Hah! Now that’s something. I hate to point out the obvious but a lot of people are hungry to find the One Piece. I hear your Straw Hat friend is also on the lookout.

Law

He has his own path to follow and I have mine. And I want you to be a part of that. Unless…you're also on the hunt for it.

Sanji sighs and looks up to the skies, unsure on how to respond.

Sanji

No. Being king isn't exactly something I wanted. It was more of a... necessity.

Law

Then step down. And if you won’t join us, at the very least, just don’t join the Straw Hats. They’re a crazy bunch who already fell apart at one point. We can do so much more for you.

I know you’ll say no right now. But know that you will always have a place with the Heart Pirates. We will take you in no matter what happens, whenever you want.

Sanji

Traffy…

The blonde stops in his tracks and suddenly begins balling his eyes out. This finally catches the attention of the swordsman who catches up quickly to comfort him.

Zoro

Why are you crying? Tra-guy, what did you do?!

Law

Uh…

Sanji

He’s so–SOOO SWEET!! WAAAAHH!!!

Sanji falls on his knees and hugs Law around his legs, tears spilling freely from his eyes.

Sanji

And his pants are all sparkly!! I can’t tell if it’s the laundry detergent or he’s just so cool like that!

Law

Let go!!! You’re embarrassing me!

Sanji

NOOOOO!!!

—

As the trio walk, the path before them gradually becomes wilder. Nola clearly had not used this part of the jungle to return to her old burrow but Sanji insisted that this is the way to go. Eventually, they come across a vast gaping hole on the ground in the middle of the wilderness. Its size is similar to that of the giant snake’s body. They stare down into the deep dark chasm where a cold breeze shoots up, creating a soft eerie hum that sends shivers up their spines.

Law

It won’t be safe for me to teleport us down there. I can’t see a thing. We don’t know how far this thing goes.

Sanji drops his bag under a tree and approaches the edge. He flexes his arms and snaps his neck a couple of times before unsheathing the blades from his gauntlets.

Sanji

This calls for a good old fashion leap of faith.

Law

Are you fuckin’ serious? All the way down there? Aren’t you still high?

Sanji

Ehh…I’ll manage. I’ve had worse and it’s already wearing off. Do you have better ideas? If we still had the balloon ship we could have flown down and we’re not exactly carrying a tonne of rope with us.

Zoro drops his pack next to Sanji’s and stands on the other side of the hole.

Zoro

I’m with Curls. Let’s do this.

Sanji

Just remember what we practiced yesterday, doctor. Keep your haki up, and be ready for any last second decisions.

Law hesitates once more before sighing in defeat. He drops his belongings with theirs and holds his sword in his hand. As the three bend down to launch themselves, he suddenly has a thought.

Law

Wait.

Zoro and Sanji blink curiously at him.

Law

You know, we never finished that game…. We’re all tied with a point each.

Sanji smiles broadly at his suggestion.

Sanji

Trafalgar D. Water Law…are you suggesting what I think you’re suggesting?

Zoro

Really? You want a race? Who the hell are you and what did you do to Traffy?

Law

Shut up! And why wouldn’t we? I still want you two under my disposal. It’s not like I’m at an advantage anyway. I can’t teleport where I can’t see.

Whoever gets to Cora-san first will win the tiebreaker.

Sanji smiles playfully and the two look at Zoro for approval.

Zoro

After everything that’s happened, you still want to do this?

Sanji

How about I sweeten the deal?

Law

Go on….

Sanji

As we all agreed before, the winner gains a favour from the other two contenders so that he may call on them at any time, anywhere in the world.

On top of that…I will join his crew.

Zoro and Law’s eyes widen in surprise.

Sanji

If the Marimo wins, I will join the Straw Hat crew. If Law wins, I will join the Heart Pirates.

Zoro

What the hell? What’s this about you joining the Heart Pirates?

Law

Ugh…I was hoping for your discretion, Mr. Prince-ya….

Zoro

Are you trying to steal him from us?!

Sanji

BUT IF I WIN…

…If I win, you two will stop trying to recruit me for anything. I don’t want to hear any of it. Forever this time.

Zoro and Law look at each other briefly then give a tentative nod at Sanji.

Sanji

Good.

Let’s do this.

—

Zoro, Sanji and Law leap off the edge of the giant chasm and into the dark, racing to be the first to reach the Heart of Skypiea. The rock formation eventually curves into a windy tunnel but the surface is smooth, enabling the three to surf on their feet as they travel at great speeds. As the last of the light fades and they find themselves in complete darkness, bioluminescent fungi illuminate the way ahead, reflecting off small translucent crystals with a glow that guides their descent.

Sanji

Action shot!

Zoro and Law see a flash of blinding light from the blonde as he takes photos of them. Distracted, Zoro falters and loses his balance slightly but manages to catch himself by flailing his arms around.

Zoro

Is this really a good time for that shit?!

Sanji

Now is the perfect time for this shit!

Law zooms past ahead of them as he unsheathes his sword. He slices a large protruding rock out of the way which sends sharp shards flying behind him.

Sanji hides his camera in the safety of his pockets as he bounces off to the opposite side to dodge, sliding almost completely upside down from where Law is. Zoro maintains his position and simply slices off the rocks in his way with a sword. He growls at Law.

Zoro

Don’t be an ass! That’s cheating!

Law

No, it’s not! I was just trying to get the bloody things out of my way!

Sanji

I agree! Got to be sharp…!

The blonde jumps off and lands directly in front of Law. He swipes his leg backwards, tripping him by the ankle and sending him towards the swordsman who receives the full blunt of his body. He falls onto his back roughly and continues sliding down with the doctor on top of him.

Law

THAT’S cheating!!

Sanji

That’s what you get! You started it!

Zoro

Get the hell off me!

Law quickly rolls to the side as the swordsman swipes his sword to deliver a strong force which damages the ground in front of Sanji.

Sanji

Woah, woah, woah–!

Sanji trips forward and dives out of the way. He starts freefalling.

Sanji

If that’s how you want to play it….

He unsheathes the claws from his gauntlets and bounces off the opposite wall with his feet. He spins rapidly to keep up his speed, smashing the earth where Zoro and Law are heading. The two shift their bodies so they split away from each other and from the dangerous rocks the blonde had carved.

Zoro slides ahead. He brings out a second sword and begins to swipe the ground at an immense speed, creating a thick cloud of dark sand behind him. Sanji and Law both shield their faces as their view gets obscured. When they move past it, their eyes are teary and their visions are blurred.

Zoro

Hah!

Law

Motherfucker!

With a flick of his hand, Law summons his room ability and swaps places with the swordsman.

Zoro

Son of a–

Law

HAH!!!

Sanji

Look out!

Zoro and Law

Hah?!

Zoro, Sanji and Law plummet into thick layers of vines that block the entire stretch of the hole. The trailing plants snap as they fall but eventually the dense growth slows them down. All three get bounced around and tangled up into a jumbled mess until they hit a point where they stop–the vines and their limbs entwined. They dangle awkwardly and painfully among each other. They’re unsure where their own bodies start and where they end, and whose arm or leg is on their faces. They wriggle around with difficulty, trying to force themselves free.

Law

This is your fault, Swordsman-ya. If you hadn’t played dirty and blinded us we would’ve seen this coming.

Zoro

Don’t blame me! You started this mess, cheater!

Law

Wait, where's my sword? Zoro-ya, can you slice these off?

Zoro

Oh, now you want my help?

Law

And what is that hard thing on my shoulder?!

Sanji

I tell you what–it might be me. And it’s not my camera.

Law

Gross! Get the fuck off m–

The vines that support them suddenly snap, sending them down screaming at the top of their lungs. All together, they fall hard onto a rocky surface. They groan in unison as they try to recover.

Sanji

Oh, hello there~

When Law opens his eyes, he sees Sanji on top of him at an intimately close distance. His face reddens quickly and he tries to get away but this only encourages the blonde who flutters his eyelids seductively at him while twirling his finger on his chest. He leans down until their noses touch each other and speaks softly.

Sanji

You know, I usually expect my date to buy me dinner first–

Law

OFF!

He grabs Sanji’s face and shoves him forcefully to the side. The blonde lands onto the ground with a grunt and chuckles playfully. He continues teasing.

Sanji

Brunch then? Or just tea and cake? You could eat the sweets off me….

Law

Shut up….

Zoro pulls his legs from under Law and pushes himself up weakly. He stands with a grunt and scowls at them.

Zoro

I’m still not happy that you tried to steal him away from me.

Law returns Zoro’s scowl with a glare of his own while fixing the cap on his head. He stands and pats his coat clean of dirt. The swordsman steps in front of him, sizing him up. The doctor responds by squaring up to him with challenging eyes.

Law

So what? Do you really expect him to join you reckless lot? We travel faster and more discreetly than you. He’s got more opportunities if he’s with us.

Zoro

No, he won’t! You know Luffy will just let him do anything he wants to do anyway! And he’ll actually have fun, unlike with a certain killjoy captain.

Law

What the fuck did you just say–?!

Sanji places himself between and pushes them apart by their chests.

Sanji

Boys…boys! There’s plenty to go around~

When the three calm down, they look around and take in the environment. It looks like they’ve landed in the middle of a massive underground grotto that connects to multiple tunnels as seen above and around them. The large open area can easily nest a giant snake or two. Unlike any body of water on the island which are composed of clouds, they are surrounded by clear sparkling water, illuminated by the fungi that grow on the cavernous floor and walls. Thanks to a thin but lengthy crack on the earth nearby, sunlight trinkles down, allowing climbing plants, ferns and other foliage to thrive deep in the earth.

In their immediate area they are surrounded by cubes sculpted from stones. They are protruding out of the ground and are shaped to make them look like they’re stacked on top of each other at a towering height. They look like small versions of the rare Poneglyphs they have seen, where all sides have ancient texts and some had drawings embossed into them.

In the middle of the room is a lone pedestal with what looks like a glimmering artifact resting on top of it.

Law gasps at the familiar shape. It closely resembles what his Devil Fruit looked like but in crystal form. A subtle glow of light emanates within it.

Sanji

Not…to ruin the mood but…should we call off the race? This is not what I expected at all.

Zoro

It’s another tie, isn’t it? For fuck’s sake….

Law remains quiet, feeling speechless from the sight. As he approaches the artifact, it glows tantalisingly brighter, drawing him closer. The light in it sparkled and moved like it's alive. He feels a familiar pull from it, as if he’s found something that he didn’t realise has been missing his entire life.

Zoro and Sanji briefly look at each other and make an unspoken decision to respectfully keep their distance. They watch Law’s back carefully.

The doctor reaches out and, sure enough, the artifact responds, emanating a warm aura that urges him to come closer. It all seems surreal but Law has a strong feeling that this belongs to him.

Inches away from the crystal, his fingers halt as he sees a small note, shaped like the one he’d been collecting across the globe left behind by Corazon. With a shaky hand, he picks it up and reads the message.

“Thanks for seeing the world with me. I love you!”

The message is signed with Corazon’s familiar heart-shaped doodle. At the corner of the paper, Law notices cigarette and burn marks as if it was done by accident. He chuckles softly.

Zoro and Sanji notice that his shoulders start shaking. They’re unable to see his face but they can tell that he needs a moment to process this. The blonde fetches the camera from his pocket and places it on one of the sculpted cubes near him. As softly as he can, he speaks.

Sanji

Law…whenever you’re ready, you might want to take photos of the writings on these things. They seem important.

Zoro

We can get them translated by Robin later.

They hear Law sniff as he rubs his eyes with the back of his sleeve and nods silently, unable to reply verbally. Sanji’s expression softens at seeing his vulnerable state. As quietly as he can, he steps back.

Sanji

Take your time. We’ll leave you two alone.

Law grabs his cap and covers his face, trying to hide himself. His body begins trembling more but he acknowledges Sanji’s statement by nodding again. Zoro pats his shoulder a couple of times to reassure and comfort him before retreating away with the blonde.

Zoro and Sanji head towards the sunlit area to begin their ascension but before they get too far, Law speaks out.

Law

H–hey guys…

The two turn their heads to him.

Law

Thanks…for everything.

Zoro and Sanji both smile and continue their way out of the grotto.

—

The climb was immense and time-consuming but Zoro and Sanji had no issues scaling up the cavernous walls. Unlike the drop where they entered, this part of the earth looks natural and didn’t look like it was dug out by a giant snake. The surface isn’t as smooth and has plants growing between crevices but that made it easier for them to find their footing. Having some semblance of sunlight also meant that they could see where they were going.

Zoro emerges first. The bright light of the sun blinds him briefly so he keeps his gaze down. He wraps his hand around Sanji’s arm and pulls him up. When they both reach the top, they keep their hold onto each other.

Seeing Law find Corazon’s final letter and gift left them particularly emotional. With no words spoken, they share a soft longing kiss. Their hands run over each other’s figures, feeling and working each other up.

Out of breath, Zoro attempts to pull himself away briefly but is forced back for a deeper, more passionate kiss by the blonde who did not want to let go too soon. Sanji becomes desperate and embraces him closer without separating their mouths, aching for more.

After a while, the blonde eases his hold of the swordsman, meeting his gaze behind glassy eyes. Zoro stares at him worriedly, brushing the fringe of his hair to see two pleading orbs. He cups his face gently with both hands.

Zoro

…What’s wrong?

Slowly, Sanji takes a step back, gliding his hands from Zoro’s neck, shoulders, then down to the very tips of his fingers before finally letting go. He distances himself and flicks his wrist, revealing a familiar dark canister with the label “3” from his sleeve. It seems that the blonde had pickpocketed him amidst their exchange. Seeing that he’d been caught hiding something from him, the swordsman immediately rambles to explain himself.

Zoro

Oh. Don’t be mad. On the way here, Niji left that for me but I… don’t know… why…

The swordsman trails off as he watches Sanji’s eyes become icy and cold. The blonde holds the canister against his chest as he takes another step away from him.

Sanji

Please don’t hate me for this….

Zoro

What are you…?

Above them there is a subtle flash of light against the blue sky. When the swordsman looks up, he sees long white lines travel from a single point then down all around them. They span across the entire stretch of the island, enclosing Skypiea within.

Zoro’s eye widens and his jaw drops in shock. He has only heard of Doflamingo’s fabled Bird Cage but to see its true immensity in real life is downright frightening.

Deep inside, through all of the doubts in his heart, he had feared this day would come. He wanted to believe that everything had changed and his nightmares would not come to light, but he knows what needs to be done. His attention returns to the blonde in front of him with a sorrowful eye.

Zoro

Don't do this.

…I don’t want to kill you….

Sanji takes a deep breath.

Sanji

You will have to.

His grip tightens around the canister. Reluctantly, he spins it in the palm of his hand.

The Raid Suit glows and engulfs him in searing bright light as it changes his form.

----------

Bonus: Stills

182 notes · View notes

zosan-secondchances · 1 month ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: Part 19

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22

Thank you for the wait dear readers! I totally did not re-write this five times and revised the images at least twice. I wanted to get it right. My writing was getting progressively too long and over-detailed so I thought I'd try to compact it a bit more.

Good day and enjoy!

To Zoro’s disappointment, Sanji didn’t want to take part in the Festival of Lights. He had insisted on helping Conis run the food stall for Pumpkin Cafe at the night market, wanting to use it as an opportunity to make more meals with the leftover sky shark meat and other foraged ingredients that they acquired during their journey to Upper Yard so that he could give them away as he didn’t want any to go to waste.

Zoro knew there was more to it than that. His gut feeling told him that the blonde wanted to distance himself from him and Law because he had a lot on his mind and, if the opportunity presents itself, possibly go someplace he shouldn’t be. The swordsman didn’t want to leave his side but Wyper and Conis assured him that they would keep him company so that he and the doctor could go about town and enjoy the Skypiean holiday. In the end, he gives in but only to fetch himself his own paper lantern to offer his prayers to the departed. It’s been a while since he visited Kuina’s grave and he thought that dedicating some time for her is the least he could do. Law joined him to fetch his own, no doubt to offer his prayers to Corazon.

At the strike of midnight, Gan Fall rings the Golden Bell, signaling the start of the main event. Skypieans collectively leave the market to begin their trek to find their preferred spots along the cloud river, either inside or outside town so that they may light and release their lanterns to float down the stream. With their own folded in their pockets, Zoro and Law waited by the city’s main gates where Wyper and Conis eventually met up with them.

Conis

Sorry to keep you waiting! We had a lot of customers. That stir fry Northy made was an absolute hit! Everyone’s calling it the new delicacy. He handed them out for free then gave away the recipe to everyone too! I told him he should write a book–

Zoro

Conis, where is he?

Conis freezes and stares at him in confusion while Wyper increasingly looks positively horrified.

Wyper

Shit.

Conis

Is he not with you?

Zoro grimaces painfully and Law slaps a hand on his forehead, nearly knocking the cap off his head.

Conis

But he said that he’s going straight to you two after we’re done at the stall!

Wyper

He clearly lied, Conis.

Zoro

You two promised to keep an eye on him! We were only gone for half an hour!

Conis

I’m so, so sorry!!! There was a lot of fuss from the residents after you left. When the citizens realised how nice he is, they all started asking him for autographs and then next thing we knew, there was a whole line in queue waiting and–and–!

Law raises a hand up to the now rambling woman who is clearly in panic and looks very guilty about the whole thing.

Law

Calm down. Take a deep breath….

Conis stops herself and follows his advice, breathing in and exhaling slowly to compose himself.

Wyper sighs and runs his hand over his face in exasperation.

Wyper

This is my fuckin’ fault. He’s very…persuasive. The guy knows how to charm like nothing else.

Zoro

Nice guarding skills there, Wyper of the God’s Guards.

Wyper

What the hell did you just say?!

Law

Stop it, you two. That's not going to help with the situation.

Did he say anything before he left? Do you have any idea where he might have gone?

Conis

He said he was feeling overwhelmed with all the residents asking him all sorts of questions and needed to go somewhere quiet for a smoke break. Wyper went with him but…

All eyes bore on the warrior who flinches as his face turns scarlet red. Zoro’s eye twitches impatiently at the man’s hesitancy to speak. He takes a step in front of him to urge him on.

Zoro

Well?

Wyper

We just…talked for a bit but then…one thing led to another and he… erm….

Zoro takes a sharp breath in but remains quiet to give him a chance to explain himself while Law simply rolls his eyes at getting an idea of where the warrior’s story is heading.

Wyper shifts uncomfortably and rubs the back of his neck. He briefly meets Zoro’s intimidating eye but averts his gaze quickly.

Wyper

We…went into the jungle… made out and… and he said that he wanted to make things more exciting so he said that he’ll just go and get…well, you….

Zoro shuts his eye tight and clenches his fists, fighting the urge to grab Wyper by the neck to throw him off a cliff for falling for something as foolish as that. Though he can't say that he fully blames him, having been seduced into doing something to the Pirate King's advantage in the past before.

Conis

Oh… Wyper….

Law

That does sound like something he would do…but why the hell didn’t you go with him?

Wyper

…He may have somehow coerced me to get tied up on a tree…. I had to free myself when I realised he wasn’t coming back.

Conis

Wyper!

Wyper

He’s fuckin’ hot, okay?! Give me a break!

Suddenly, Zoro grabs Wyper by the buckles of his armour and yanks him forcibly nose to nose.

Zoro

No, you had one job and you failed miserably!

Wyper grunts as he gets hoisted off the ground by the enraged swordsman. The crowd around them stops abruptly at the disturbance but the warrior chooses to not fight back. Zoro raises a fist to deliver a blow but halts, his fists shaking from anger.

Wyper

Y–you’re right. I’m… sorry, Zoro. I am. It’s never my intention to get between you two. He said you'd be up for it. I didn’t–

Zoro

That’s not why I’m angry at you! I already know that he fools around. I’m angry because he’s been through so much shit and now he’ll–

Realising that there is now a crowd surrounding them, including some of Wyper’s men, Zoro forces himself to release the warrior and calm himself. He growls and begins stomping off through the gates.

Wyper

Wait, let me help you look for him!

Zoro

No, you’ve done enough. Traffy, let’s go.

Law huffs in annoyance but follows suit, leaving behind an extremely flustered Wyper and a worried Conis at the other side.

—

Zoro trudges through the dark jungle in a rush, hurdling over thick bushes downhill off trail with Law tailing behind him calmly.

Law

Zoro-ya, do you even know where you’re going?

Zoro

No, but I'm never lost with him around. He's definitely this way.

Law

How the hell do you know? Give me a moment to scan. It’ll be much quicker.

Zoro

No. If he’s with who I think he might be, we’d get caught.

Zoro stops in his tracks and holds a hand up, tilting his face left and right slowly. Law follows his instruction and keeps quiet, feeling frustrated that he doesn’t know why the swordsman is suddenly so confident in finding his way around. He tries using his observation haki just as he practiced earlier, but he detects no immediate presence in the area. There’s very little vision over this wilder side of Upper Yard and the only noises he hears are the sound of crickets chirping loudly and the trees’ rustling leaves in the wind.

After a short pause, he feels a subtle sensation in the air but it goes as quickly as it came. It felt like a soft flutter of a heartbeat that waves past them.

Law

Is that–?

Zoro

That’s him.

Zoro continues his way in the general direction where the source of the sensation came from with the doctor tailing behind him, slicing dense foliage out of the way as he walks.

Law

I can’t feel it anymore. I thought you can only pick up the presence if someone is nearby?

Zoro

It’s… hard to explain.

The two take a brief pause in conversation as they slide down particularly slippery rocks, taking the direction where the crow flies to find Sanji as quickly as possible.

Zoro

Before all this…back when we used to fight, he purposely got me lost so I have no choice but to find him. He enjoyed being chased.

Law

Oh?

Zoro

He does this…thing with his haki…. He flexes it but doesn’t hold it. He purposely keeps it weak to avoid unwanted detection and giving his position away too quickly. To the ordinary man and even most haki users, they can’t feel it unless you really focus on it. You felt it just now, right?

Law

It felt like a heartbeat. I would have thought it’s just a butterfly going by. You’re certain it’s him?

Zoro

Yes.

Law

I hope you’re right. Your sense of direction isn’t exactly the best.

Zoro

Shut up. He’s done this to get me to find him many times. If he’s using it right now, he wants to be found.

The sensation eventually leads them to a small river of clouds up on a hill. Zoro takes a moment to study their surroundings when he detects a familiar presence. Positive that it’s the person they have been looking for, he picks up the pace.

When he slices the last layer of thick foliage in front of them, he feels a wave of relief wash over him at seeing the blonde kneeling in front of a cloud stream by a clearing overlooking the White Sea. In front of him is a lit paper lantern.

The swordsman emerges from the treeline and stomps over, stopping a short distance behind Sanji. He opens his mouth to give him a word or two about running off on his own but notices that the blonde has his eyes closed and is in the middle of his prayers. Instead of interrupting, he shuts his jaw and crosses his arms, sighing in defeat.

Sanji

Join me?

Zoro’s eyes soften. He nods silently. When he looks behind him, he notices Law staring at the dark jungle where they had just been. There is a hint of concern on his face.

Zoro

Tra-guy, We’re setting off the lanterns here. Are you joining?

Law furrows his brows as he takes a reluctant step towards the dark.

Zoro

Everything okay?

Law

Y–yeah. I thought I saw…. Never mind.

The doctor turns his heel and joins the two by the river. Zoro and Law settle on both sides of the blonde, retrieve and unfold the paper lanterns from their pockets and light its inner wicks. They close their eyes and begin quiet prayers of their own.

After a moment, they lay their lanterns together to flow down the gentle stream which joins up with the larger body of clouds downhill. As they stand up and watch the three orbs travel, hundreds of lit lanterns begin to follow, flowing past them and lighting up their surroundings brightly. The stream eventually meets the White Sea, where the lanterns scatter from different points of the island.

Soon, the entirety of Skypiea is lit. The lanterns look like twinkling stars moving slowly below them–surreal and hypnotising. As the trio watches, fully tantalised by the view, they feel a gentle change in weather which lifts the lanterns up to the higher skies.

It was a sight to behold. It was as if the island itself was alive, and it felt like they were watched over by the souls they had prayed to. They stand in amazement, unable to tear their gazes away from the spectacular view.

Sanji

Thank you.

The two look at him curiously as he speaks softly. He sniffs once and wipes a small tear from the corner of his eye.

Sanji

I didn’t realise that I needed this. This was a good idea.

Zoro notices his golden hair shine brighter than ever before, lit by the lanterns past his head. When the wind blows the fringe off his face, he sees it. Two wide orbs–big, blue, and full of hope and determination. It looks as though he had suddenly changed like something sparked a fire inside of him. Unable to resist the urge, the swordsman reaches out and entwines their pinkie fingers, only to be surprised when the blonde clasps their hands together.

Seeing that the couple is having an intimate moment, Law turns his heel to leave them be. He considers calling the Heart Pirates to ensure their safety, and to suggest that they look up to the skies to witness the spectacle that is the Festival of Lights.

—

The following morning was brighter than the last. Sanji was up early to use the last of their stocked items to make his signature fried rice–a dish he liked serving on lazy mornings to his siblings whenever Cosette is out on leave. It was a good opportunity to revamp some of the older ingredients they had, and adding what's left of the meat should offer a generous amount of protein for the strenuous day ahead.

While plating the meal, he thinks of Niji and feels his heart sink. A wave of anxiousness washes over him. He considers leaving the swordsman and the doctor to continue on their own to look for him.

He was glad to have the opportunity to spend the night with the swordsman. He has made a decision that this would be the last. Though he might find himself unable to seek out future partners. His heart would be too heavy to do so.

Zoro and Law eventually emerge from their sleeping quarters and sit at the table. They eat in bliss, enjoying Sanji's delicious meal and drinks that never disappoint. Zoro caught up the blonde with the town's festivities that he missed out on, including details of his talks with the other Skypieans who he hadn't seen since the Straw Hats liberated the country from Enel’s rule.

After the swordsman’s story, Law clears his throat.

Law

I received news from the Heart Pirates last night. Nothing too urgent, but I have messages for you both.

The two continue their meals, listening intently.

Law

First, I gave them an update about your encounter with Doflamingo. Least to say, they're very worried about you and they wanted me to pass on the message that they hope that you're well and that your ex is an absolute ass–Penguin’s words.

Sanji

Aww, that's so sweet!

Law

Secondly, Prince Fukaboshi kidnapped Shachi for questioning.

Zoro and Sanji

What?!?

Law

He's back in the sub and is in good health. Though…a little shaken by your ex-fiance.

Zoro

His what now?

Sanji

Shush! Please continue.

Law

They talked it out over drinks after the whole interrogation. It sounds like they’re on good terms now after a brief misunderstanding. It was, according to Bepo, “a lot of fun”. Prince Fukaboshi had some intriguing stories about you and your siblings, Mr. Prince-ya.

Sanji

O–oh…

Law

Anyway, they've been trying to find you since Saobody. They've been tracking the Polar Tang and the army has finally caught up.

Sanji

And…what did they want with me?

Law

Apparently you have a very protective ally. He wanted himself and his elite army of fish folk to join us in our travels since he heard of your run-in with the Celestial Dragon. They've been keeping the Pacifistas at bay, and even deterred all of Doflamingo's forces from getting too close.

Sanji begins choking at a particularly large piece of meat stuck behind his throat. He punches his chest a couple of times before downing the rest of the contents with his glass of pumpkin juice.

Sanji

Of course they did. That bloody idiot.

You didn't tell him that we ate sky shark, did you? He's kind of a half shark. I never know how merfolk react to that sort of thing.

Law

Uhm…no.

But, Mr. Prince-ya, it really sounds like there's already a war going on. Germa and The Neptune Army against Dressrosa. The Marines have backed off. I think they're hoping that the three kingdoms will wreck each other by themselves.

Sanji

Not quite. They'll do the usual and swoop in at the last second to steal the victory so they come out as heroes in the papers. Then they'll ask for an “alliance”, demanding resources in return for their “aid”. Fuckin’ leaches.

Before we head off, doctor, I'll need to borrow your snail so I can talk to Fukaboshi. I must get my High General involved while we're up here.

Zoro

Another sibling?

Sanji

Ichiji. You’ve met him but Traffy hasn't. Remember the first time I proposed? He was the commander who escorted me. The man can win a war in his sleep. Never play drunken chess with the fucker.

Law

Right.

And…for the last bit of news is for you, Zoro-ya.

Zoro

Hah?

Zoro's food drops sloppily onto his plate from his spoon, his half-full mouth left agape as he stares at Law in surprise.

Law

I uh…got a message from Luffy.

Zoro

Luffy?! Tell me everything!

Law

No, I can't tell you everything!!! Most of it is…for me.

Zoro and Sanji

Gross.

Law

Ack–! You're one to talk!!! Again, couldn't you have kept it down last night?

Sanji

Absoluuuutely not.

Zoro

He's a screamer. He was feeling good.

Sanji

So was your ass, I bet.

Zoro

Surprisingly, yes.

Law

Oh for the love of–I don't want to hear it!

Sanji waves his hand in dismissal then wipes his mouth clean with a cloth.

Law

Anyway, he's officially calling to get the Straw Hat crew back together.

Zoro's jaw drops once more but in excitement, speechless from the news. He grins widely at that and begins laughing. Sanji smiles slightly at this, feeling positive that he made the right call. It seems as though fate has decided that today is their last day together, and that their paths will all divert apart as he predicted.

Zoro

FUCK YES! Did he say when?

Law

A year from now. He wants to meet up at Fish-Man Island with you lot since there’s a lot of political turmoil currently happening in Sabaody Archipelago. Apparently he's found a reliable chef and a skilled helmsman for the crew. Though…to be honest, he didn't sound too happy with the cook but your navigator gave him an ultimatum. Either you travel with one or she wouldn't rejoin. Something about maintaining food and resources.

Zoro's smile drops and he stares at his food for a moment, thinking. After a brief pause, he looks up, grinning.

Zoro

Whoever it is, since our captain has doubts, I'll get the current cook fired so Curls can replace him.

Law

Huh. Not a bad plan, coming from you, green goblin.

Zoro

Hah?!

Sanji

You'll do no such thing. My kingdom is at war, remember?

Zoro

Yeah but it won't be a year from now. I'll make sure–

Sanji

MARIMO!

Sanji angrily slams his fist on the wooden table. The two look at him with concern.

Sanji

I cannot, and will not join your crew. We've talked about this! I hate to break it to you, but wars can last a lifetime. I mean, look at us! Two decades of that nonsense!

Zoro

Sure, it's nonsense, but if you let us help you, I'm confident Luffy can help take down Doflamingo. I mean, you've seen what Nami is capable of and she's not even one of our usual fighters!

Sanji

With all due respect, Demon Warlord, but the Straw Hats are only getting together in a year but the war is happening right now and I'm already late for it. This conversation ends here.

—

Near the entrance of Upper Yard's city, the now chainless Sanji clasps Gan Fall's hand in his, placing an eternal compass and a strip of paper with a combination of numbers for his transponder snail.

Sanji

Thanks, old man. For everything. If your people need us for anything, Germa will answer your call. Or you know, if you just want to hang out and get high.

From afar, Conis bellows out angrily, making the two men flinch.

Conis

I heard that!!

Gan Fall

Bahahaha! And you with Skypiea. You will sorely be missed, my boy. How are your wounds?

Sanji

I'm still a little sore, but nothing I can't handle.

Gan Fall

Goodness, you heal fast! It must be that doctor working his magic! He's a good one.

And…before I forget. When you see the old girl, three buds should do the trick. You don't want to take too much or you'll be out of action for at least a whole day. Trust me, I've been there. I haven't heard the end of it from Conis yet.

Sanji chuckles as he claps Gan Falls shoulder and gives it a reassuring shake. They turn their heels then walk together, returning to the city's main gates where a crowd of residents have clustered around Zoro and Law to take turns saying their goodbyes. When they get close, the doctor turns to them and bows his head down in greeting.

Law

Gan Fall. Mr. Prince-ya, did you get directions?

Sanji

Partly. No one knows where Nola's old burrow is but I have a reliable lead.

Gan Fall

It sounds as though your Pirate King here knows how to find your Marine friend. You three are always welcome to return whenever you desire! I hope Wyper hasn't left a sour taste in your mouth….

Wyper

Hey!

Sanji

Hah! Not at all, my friend. In another world, perhaps it would have worked out. He's a good man, Gan Fall. But in this reality, my heart only belongs to one.

Gan Fall

Oh, to be young again! Next time you visit, I'll make sure to relay my share of romances. Believe it or not, I'm also guilty of the tie-up-and-run tactic that you pulled last night. Once on the receiving end! Hah!

Sanji

I look forward to it! It's so mean but it works so well, doesn't it?

Gan Fall

Indeed! The reaction is the best. Did you get a look at his face?

Sanji

No. By the time he realised it, I was already hundreds of leagues away.

Gan Fall

Atta boy!

Wyper’s face flushes deep red as the two kings laugh out loud at the expense of his dignity.

Sanji

Oh, don't be such a baby. We're extremely grateful for all of your help. Here.

Sanji leans over and places a soft kiss on Wyper's cheek. The warrior blinks at him speechlessly, feeling his heart rate increase.

Sanji

Are we good?

Wyper

Y–yeah. Be safe and thanks for the Germa flag. We shall raise it with pride. God's Guards stand with you.

Not far from where they stood, Zoro was bidding farewell to Conis and his other friends.

Conis

Safe travels, Zoro! I really wish that you could stay longer….

Kamakiri

We'll save some more sake for you next time.

Zoro

I'd like that. Stay out of trouble, you lot.

Aisa

Can you believe Raki still doesn't let me drink?

Raki

And you never will! Here, swordsman. I've brought your ride.

The dark haired woman steps aside as the crowd behind her follows suit, parting themselves to allow a giant yellow dog to trot towards him. As soon as he sees Zoro, his tail wags in excitement then takes a run, knocking down the swordsman to the ground to give him big slobbery kisses across his body.

Zoro

Argh!! Gross!!! Get him off me!

The residents laugh at the sight and start pointing their fingers at Zoro, knowing full well what the big blonde creature is like. Sanji overhears the commotion and joins in on the mockery. He pulls out the photo camera from his pack and snaps photos of the swordsman and the large creature in action.

Raki

Holy!!! No! Bad dog! You can say hi but no licking!

Holy…down!

At that Holy immediately sits down, pinning the swordsman’s lower body under his large furry bum.

Zoro

Raki!!!

Raki

AAH! I made it worse!!!

—

After bidding everyone their goodbyes (and with Zoro having fresh new clothes), the trio proceed on foot westward with Holy following them behind. Wyper's scouts had reported that Nola was last seen napping on one of her usual spots that way. They would have ridden the dog sooner but Law wanted to take his time to soak in everything that Skypiea had to offer on the home stretch.

Sanji

So, doctor? Excited to see Corazon?

Law

More than anything.

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zosan-secondchances · 1 month ago

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Pirate King of the North: The Vinsmoke Siblings

Here’s some facts about the Vinsmoke siblings from a reality where Reiju was born without emotions:

Sanji was kept in his father's dungeon to rot away. At 13 years old, he was abandoned for dead on some random island somewhere in the North where he was found and enslaved by pirate slavers.

At 17 years of age, Sanji rallied his fellow slave comrades to overpower the pirates who owned them. He became known as the notorious Mr. Prince and is feared throughout the North.

This caught the attention of Doflamingo, who, after several “run-ins" with the former slave, agreed to help him take on Germa 66.

Thanks to their combined forces and Doflamingo’s Underworld connections, they defeated Germa where Sanji killed his own father for not allowing him to visit his own mother’s grave.

As an act of vengeance, Sanji captured, kept his siblings under lock and key, and forced them into iron helmets just as they did with him.

As soon as he crowned himself King, Sanji released his siblings to work under his command. Their genetic programming forced them to do as they are told. By using them, Sanji expanded his territory in the North through war and other means of control. His influence and power remain unchallengeable to this day. He became known throughout the world as the Pirate King of the North.

Due to their prolonged exposure to the Seastones embedded in the iron helmets, the Vinsmoke siblings discovered that they’re able to feel emotions, and effectively break rules in their genetic programming–two of which are feeling empathy and the ability to refuse direct orders from their Pirate King.

They resented their own brother for killing their former king and father, but they understood his intentions and had chosen to stay by his side.

They’re not a perfect family, but they’re all trying. Like having weekly Friday game nights that Sanji hosts himself.

Playing Monopoly is banned from game night but strip poker is okay if Ichiji brings enough men, women, and anyone in between to play along.

Reiju

Reiju is Sanji’s right hand man, Adviser, Underworld Informant and Broker. She is next in line to the throne.

Whenever she sees Fishmen, she passes out from blood loss through her nose.

She wanted Sanji to marry Prince Fukaboshi but due to complications in political and racial statures, the engagement was called off. Sanji’s relationship with the mermaid prince was permanently terminated due to him killing Hody Jones and Vander Decken IX to liberate Fish-Man Island from their tyrannical rule.

But that’s okay because she has eyes on Prince Ryuboshi or Manboshi for herself.

She relentlessly tries to persuade her king brother to settle down and have kids for the “greater good”.

Her helmet was designed in honour of their late mother and father. It resonates qualities of their beauty and tenacity–both admirable and dangerous in their own ways.

She is the main reason as to why Monopoly is banned from game night. Her bargaining and BS game is on point. A lot of expensive furniture did not survive the onslaught of their collective family rage.

Ichiji

Ichiji is known as the Warmonger Prince from the North.

He acts as Sanji’s High General and is in charge of strategizing for and controlling Germa’s military forces.

He has the second highest bounty among the Vinsmoke siblings, amounting B2,250,000,000. He purposely exposes himself to the public to take some of the fire off Sanji and his siblings.

He refuses to upgrade his Raid Suit and helmet, stating that he’s taking it upon himself to redeem his family's regrettable actions for abusing Sanji the way they did. Sanji thinks this is stupid but respects his decision anyway.

Because of this, he is completely uncontactable during missions unless it’s through means of a transponder snail or letters by post.

He’s become so powerful that he keeps burning off his own outdated cloak, which needs replacing every now and then.

His siblings hate playing chess with him because he never loses.

He has semi-regular orgy parties throughout the Grand Line and the New World. Private invitations only. Bookings are essential. BYO towels. Complimentary champagne on arrival.

Niji

Niji is Germa’s Chief Scientist and Lead Engineer. He oversees all scientific progress for the family.

He gets along really well with Caesar Clown but he refuses to call him his friend.

He is considered a master swordsman but he doesn’t actually need swords when out on missions. “More tools for the arsenal” he says. In truth, he just thinks they make him look cooler.

An exception was made for him to be the only one whose helmet doesn’t cover his entire head as he likes to tinker with it on a regular basis, making it the most technologically advanced out of the four. This makes him the most emotionally sensitive as well.

As he is the fastest among the five, he often swoops in to rescue his siblings out of tight situations.

He sometimes works as an Informant and Undercover Agent along with Reiju.

Such missions include being Sanji’s doppelganger every now and then, much to his dismay. He curses the fact that Ichiji and Yonji both have “gorilla bodies”.

He has been crazy in love with Cosette for many years but doesn’t know it.

Niji likes to use Yonji as a guinea pig to test out new Raid Suit upgrades and not at all to get his attention and spend more time with him because he doesn't know why he hates him now.

Sanji

He is the crown king and ruler of–

Niji: Damn it, Sanji! You have to wear your Raid Suit to join the profiling!

Sanji: But I look hotter like this~

Niji: No, you don’t! Fuck off!

Yonji

He refuses any sort of promotion from Reiju and Ichiji as he prefers to keep his military rank as Major, commanding only a select few elite soldiers under his wing.

Physically, he’s considered the strongest out of the five.

He doesn’t like wearing his helmet so his siblings work hard on making it look as rad as possible to encourage him.

If he was being completely honest with himself, he doesn’t know what to do with all these “feelings”.

Aside from Ichiji, he prefers to work with his comrades in arms rather than his own siblings.

He secretly hates Reiju for enabling Sanji to do whatever he wants to do.

He secretly hates Niji for winning over Cosette’s heart.

He secretly hates Sanji for stealing his best friend.

But what he does like is to read Sogeking comics on WENP and has his full anime and manga collection.

He dislikes a lot of things but secretly thinks Ichiji is cool.

Because of his tendency to turn down missions, Sanji and Reiju refuse to give him extra allowance so he works a part-time job of being a model for Pappag and Camie’s Criminal fashion line.

----------

That’s all folks! Thanks for checking it out. I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I did writing it!

Sanji’s profile is Chapter 1 of The Pirate King of the North fic that’s currently in the works. Read it here or at AO3!

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zosan-secondchances · 2 months ago

Text

Hello, yes I'm still alive.

Being sick sucks and I haven't done much in a while. I completely forgot to share a lil video clip of this WIP process of my dofsan art while I was playing around with layering different glitch effects in Instagram.

Recently I've been so obsessed with animated music videos with lyrics so I thought I'd give it a little crack coz I already had so many exported layers on the ready.

Audio is (Lavie) ラヴィ by Surii

Original post here

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zosan-secondchances · 2 months ago

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Pirate King of the North: Dofsan Art Process

Happy ~Late~ Valentines Day to all you thirsty fucks. Here's my attempt at giving you lot a present.

Have a look at some of my layers up close if you want something to cry about.

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zosan-secondchances · 3 months ago

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The Pirate King of the North: The Tale of The Bird and The Fox

Main Themes: Villain Sanji, Alternate Universe, Zosan Ship

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22

Doflamingo

That fuckin’ asshole!!! Stop them!!!

The crew on board the Numancia Flamingo scuffle about to lower their ship's sail further, attempting to catch up to a particularly fast snail just smaller than their own ship jetting ahead of them. Men at the helm angle the vessel, preparing themselves for the inevitable full frontal assault.

A tall man with long brown hair and blue eyes runs up to Doflamingo, hugging the railing of the ship desperately to stop himself from falling off the speeding ship travelling through rough waters.

Diamante

Doflamingo, there’s no chance! They’re way too fast for us!

Doflamingo

It’s a fuckin’ snail! How is it faster?!

Looking over at the highest point of the snail's shell, he sees a man with long locks of hair stand up straight. He growls angrily at the blonde’s devilish smile across his face.

Doflamingo

I swear to god, I’m going to wipe that shit-eating grin off the face of this world!!!

The blonde man laughs at his reaction and pokes his tongue out. He procures something out of his pocket and holds up the item in his hand, tossing it up and down playfully, taunting him in a challenging way.

Doflamingo spits at the sight of his desired Devil Fruit in someone’s hands. He turns his glare towards Diamante.

Doflamingo

I don’t care how, but I want that fucker dead!

The Numancia Flamingo manages to gain enough speed to sail alongside the fast snail. Doflamingo soon notices, however, that it’s not that their ship had gained speed, it’s the snail that had slowed down to pull up alongside them.

Doflamingo yells at his men to attack. His crew begins a barrage of cannonfire, aimed at the bulk of the snail’s shell. As the projectiles fly in the air, flashes of pink and red fly between the vessels. The cannonballs suddenly vanish without a trace.

Doflamingo

What the ever living fuck was that?! You call that an attack?! Keep firing!!!

His men panic and continue their cannonfire as ordered by their enraged captain.

Diamante

Young master!!! There’s no use! Something–someone keeps knocking them out in the air!

The blonde man reappears on the side of the snail’s shell, holding onto the ropes that are securely attached to it. He calls out to Doflamingo in a cheerful melody.

Sanji

Dooooffy~!

Doflamingo grits his teeth in irritation and runs towards the side of his own ship to face the man directly. He watches beams of pink and red continue their flight between their ships, somehow making their cannonballs disappear before they reach the snail.

Sanji brings out the Devil’s Fruit once more, twirling it at the tip of his index finger playfully.

Sanji

So…you come here often, love? What brings you to this part of the New World on this fine day?

Doflamingo

Mr. Prince! That’s not yours to take!

Sanji

Nah-uh! It was in our territory, hence it’s ours!

Doflamingo

You STOLE it from me, motherfucker! It’s rightfully mine!

And since when is this your territory?!

Sanji

Since we moved our fortress nearby!

Doflamingo

Your idea of expansion is a fuckin’ joke! Give it up or we will board your ship!!!

Sanji hooks his leg around the rope to keep himself tethered against the side of the snail’s shell. He runs his fingers along his jaw, thinking deep thoughts, while he continues to play with the Devil Fruit with his other hand.

Sanji

You’re so angry! Relax a bit, will you

Here’s the thing, Doffy, you are in our territory. You’re trespassing, speeding, threatening a fellow king and his subordinates, and now you’re attempting to steal from me? The gall!

Doflamingo

Don’t call me that! I barely know you!

Sanji

So? Let’s get to know one another then!

Would you be up for a candlelit dinner or are you a fuck-and-go kind of guy?

Doflamingo angrily slams his fists against the railing of his ship and turns to Diamante and his men.

Doflamingo

Board them!

Diamante

How can we make it over there when our cannonfire can’t even–

Doflamingo

I don’t care!!! Do it!

Diamante yells at their crew and stomps away to help them.

Sanji

Making real clumsy decisions there, my friend! I wouldn’t do that if I were you. You should be more carefu–!

At that, the Devil Fruit slips off his fingers. The blonde scrambles to catch it but it repeatedly slips from his grasp so he juggles it in the air clumsily before it finally falls off. Sanji tips himself backwards while keeping his legs hooked around the ropes to catch it in time with both hands.

Sanji

Whoops! That would have been bad, wouldn’t it?

Doflamingo

Fucker!!! Don’t you dare lose it!

Sanji pulls himself up and tosses the fruit up and down in his hand again.

Sanji

You are absolutely correct, Doffy!

…I should just eat it.

Sanji opens his mouth and teasingly holds the fruit between his teeth.

Doflamingo

NO!!!

They hear cries of help as Doflamingo’s men attempt to swing from the Numancia Flamingo over to the speedy snail. Out of nowhere, zaps of blue electricity shock the crew midair. They fall into the open water like rain between their ships.

A blue-headed man reveals himself from the other side of the snail then stands mightily on top of its shell. He crosses his arms, as if to declare that Doflamingo’s attempts are of no use.

Sanji

Mmphf Pmmmff Mmmffphf!

Doflamingo

Wh–What?!

Sanji spits out the undamaged fruit into his hand and throws Doflamingo a wide grin.

Sanji

I said that’s quite a moronic move, especially for you! I think they’re still alive though if you want to get your crew back!

Doflamingo

What the hell do you want from me, Mr. Prince?! What would it take for you to hand that over?!?

Sanji

I told you! I want a date!

Doflamingo feels the veins in his forehead pop. He then notices that the snail begins to slow down but the Numancia Flamingo continues to speed through the waters.

Sanji

Hey Doffy! Who’s driving?!

Doflamingo

…Eh?

Diamante runs up to Doflamingo once more, out of breath.

Diamante

Master… our men…

Doflamingo looks around and notices that there is no one else on deck except for him and his first mate. His eye twitches frustratingly at the sight. As if that's not troublesome enough, he hears sounds of footsteps from the lower levels. When he turns to see who it is, a man with green slicked back hair emerges from below deck, gripping two of his crew members by their heads with his massive hands as they cry for help. The green-headed man tosses them off the side of the ship casually, claps his hands clean and crosses his arms, looking bored.

Doflamingo

Who the fuck are you?!

Yonji

You might want to watch out where you’re going.

Doflamingo

Huh?

Diamante

Young master–!

The entirety of the ship suddenly surges forwards as the Numancia Flamingo beaches itself above a spiky rock formation at full speed. Doflamingo and Diamante get thrown backwards and they both land roughly against the far end of the ship. Debris from the front flies over and rains down on them.

The two groan at the sudden stop and take a moment to recover. When they look up, the green-headed man has already vanished from where he was standing.

Germa’s snail slows to a stop behind their beached ship. The blonde is now sitting on top of its shell while leaning his back against the blue-haired man who brings out a bamboo rod and begins fishing on the far side.

Sanji waves at the two remaining men on board the crashed ship.

Sanji

Hey! Need help, love?

Doflamingo and Diamante push debris off their bodies and struggle to stand. Doflamingo limps towards the back of the ship and throws Sanji a middle finger.

Sanji

Now why on earth did you crash your ship into this very stupidly large, hard-to-miss rock formation?

Doflamingo

You did this!

Sanji

It's not my fault that you're not paying attention!

Doflamingo

Fuck off already!

Sanji

Wait, I thought you're after me? Don't you want your Devil Fruit back? And now you want me to fuck off? Make up your mind, man!

Doflamingo

Ack–!

Sanji

So is that a no to help? We can tow your ship while you ride on the shell with us.

Well…whatever’s left of your ship anyway.

Doflamingo

I swear when I get my hands on you, I'm goanna–

Sanji

Hey! I'm trying to be nice here!

I’m being nice, aren’t I, Commander?

The blue haired man taps his chin thoughtfully.

Niji

In your weird unusual way–yeah, sure.

Sanji

See? Come on, I’ll give you our first catch of the day! Nice, fresh and juicy! Maybe I’ll even cook it for you if you’re well behaved.

Doflamingo

Shut up, just–SHUT UP! Give me back my Devil Fruit!

Sanji claps his hands together, happily smiling.

Sanji

A fruit salad sounds wonderful! Do you think that’s been done before? A Devil Fruit salad?

One more question, do you need to eat the whole thing or can we go halfsies? What if you eat two halves? Would you get two abilities?

Wait, that's three questions.

Doflamingo snaps at the blonde’s annoyingly arrogant attitude and takes several steps backwards. He sprints towards the edge of his broken ship at full speed then jumps off at the very end.

Sanji jumps side to side, warming himself up. He speaks under his breath.

Sanji

Here we go, come on.

Niji

Do you want our help on this?

Sanji

No, thank you. I need to speak to him privately.

Niji sighs in boredom and reels in his fishing line to recast it further out in the water.

Niji

You might want to tell that to Pink.

Sanji

Pink? Where?

Doflamingo pulls his fists, intending to deliver a powerful blow towards Sanji. As he closes in midair, the blonde simply eyes him and gives him a devilish smirk. His intrusive thoughts immediately think what that mouth would look like with his–

Before his fist meets the blonde's face, he sees a flash of pink in front of him as a girl with a butterfly-shaped cape suddenly puts herself between him and the blonde. She twirls rapidly, swinging her knee into his stomach, sending him hurling into the shallow stony waters down below.

Doflamingo lands with a loud grunt as the spiky rocks underneath him damage his back. He coughs out blood and he lays there still with his body partly submerged in the water.

The pink haired girl lands on top of him, smashing the rocks on both sides of his head. She straightens up, looming over him with a dangerous glare.

She raises a fist to deliver him a final blow. Doflamingo grits his teeth, readying himself for the inevitable pain.

Sanji

Stop!

The girl stops her punch just inches away from Doflamingo's face. Sanji jumps off from the snail’s shell and approaches them slowly. As he closes in, the girl steps aside to make way and faces him.

Reiju

But I was in the middle of a game with Red…. I'm one point away from winning.

Sanji

Oh? What's the prize?

Reiju

A favour or two. It depends on the gap between the points.

Sanji

Can I join?

Ichiji

No, it would be an unfair fight.

At the corner of his eyes, Doflamingo sees another person with red hair land on top of the snail's shell. He takes a moment to turn away from them in order to hide his eyes, and clean his sunglasses with his cape before resting it on his face again. The blonde yells at him to be heard.

Sanji

How the hell would it be unfair?! Don't you need at least a third player to play judge?

Reiju and Ichiji

Because you cheat!

Ichiji

Besides, Blue’s far more dependable keeping track of the score.

Reiju

I agree.

Sanji

But–

Reiju

Oh, don't be such a baby. Blue’s been keeping an eye on us since you're far too distracted playing with your horndog.

Sanji

My…what?

Niji silently nods in agreement from where he sat, causing Sanji to slap his own cheek, taking offense at the whole idea of being left out.

Ichiji finally settles down next to the grumbling blue haired one who is still fishing.

Ichiji

Caught anything yet?

Niji

No… Cosette’s going to kill me.

Ichiji

Forget it. We’ll just buy some on our way back. She won’t know the difference.

Niji

It’s not the same!

Reiju

Let it go, Red. He won't listen if he's at the mercy of our head chef.

Ichiji smirks and ruffles Niji's head, messing up the fringe of his hair that was neatly sticking out of his metal helmet.

Niji

Stop it!

Ichiji

If you don't ask her out, I will. And if I fail–which you know I rarely do–I'll get Green in on the action.

Niji

Don't you fuckin' dare.

Doflamingo

Mr. Prince, you know that I'm still here right?

Sanji

O–oh, whoops!

Commander, could you give us a moment alone please?

The pink girl hums softly as a reply and gracefully walks off to join the two men waiting idly on the shell.

Reiju

Commander Blue, there really is no use. You can buy live ones from the market nowadays. We’ll just kill them closer to home to make it look like you caught them yourself. Or better yet–we can start our own fish farm if we can get one that’s bearing eggs.

Niji

Leave me alone and let me do this!

…Tell me about that fish farm though.

Diamante

Young master!!!

Grateful for the distraction, Doflamingo lifts his head with difficulty and sees that his first mate is wrapped in chains, held firmly by the green headed man back on his ship.

Yonji

Hey King, what do you want to do with this one? He told me they're collecting Devil Fruits but won't say why.

Sanji

Lock him up. We won't be long.

Diamante thrashes about, trying to break out of his restraints until the green head delivers a swift chop at the back of his neck which renders him unconscious immediately. He lifts him effortlessly over his shoulders and disappears behind the wreckage of his ship.

Sanji

Commanders, can I please get you to look around and retrieve those Devil Fruits from their ship?

Doflamingo

No…!

Niji

But I haven't caught anything yet!

Reiju

I literally just sat down….

Ichiji

I'll do it…I guess.

Sanji

Thank you kindly!

The red headed man lazily launches off the snail and disappears where the green man had gone somewhere in the ruins of the Numancia Flamingo.

Doflamingo attempts to sit up with his heavily bruised body. When his arms give, he falls back onto the rocky waters with a loud splash. The water up his nose and blood behind his throat causes another round of coughing fits.

He hears light splashes next to his head and sees Sanji sit down next to him, stretching his legs into the water. The blonde shuffles a hand into his breast pocket and fishes out a clean and dry handkerchief. He stretches his arm out, offering him the piece of fabric.

Sanji

Sorry about that. I like watching my siblings get along. It's not often we all take on the same mission.

Doflamingo

I hate you all so much.

Sanji

I know.

Doflamingo snatches the handkerchief off his hand and begins to clean the blood off his face. Afterwards, he discards it by tossing it over his shoulders.

Doflamingo

Why did you do this? We're just trying to get home.

Sanji pulls a cigarette from his pocket and lights it.

Sanji

Because you've been a bad, bad boy, Doffy.

Doflamingo

…Seriously?

Sanji

And you get this really cute reaction! Your face gets all scowly and angry. And those veins on your forehead really come out, like your head’s about to pop.

Doflamingo groans and rolls himself onto his elbows. As he pushes himself up, he looks up at the state of his ship and frowns.

Doflamingo

My men?

Sanji

All accounted for. Don't worry.

Doflamingo

You didn't kill any of them?

Sanji

Now where's the fun in that?

Sanji crosses his legs, watching the other man struggle to sit up. He steals a glance at the back of his shirt all torn up and his skin is covered in bruises from Reiju's attack.

Doflamingo

Give it back…

Sanji

You're going to need to be more specific than that.

Doflamingo

More speci–? My fruit! I want my Devil Fruit back!!! Like I keep saying a million times over. What else could it be?

Sanji holds up his enclosed hand and begins stating other things out loud while counting with his fingers.

Sanji

A billion Beri, that one white feather coat you like so much, condensed Seastones, a couple of expensive-looking family heirlooms back when you were a Celestial Dragon–

Doflamingo

Wait, wait, wait, wait–how much have you stolen from me?!

And why did you take my coat…?

Sanji

Only whenever you enter our side of the waters. Take it as your payment for our toll.

And…I was feeling cold and your coat just looked warm and snug.

Oh uh…just so you know, it's pink now. I tried to wash it but someone accidentally put in his red flashy underwear with it and… well….

Doflamingo’s brow twitches angrily as he feels his temperature rise.

Sanji

AHA! That! There’s that look that I love so much!

It's…dry clean only though…isn't it? Sorry.

Doflamingo

You… little piece of shit….

Sanji chuckles, ignoring the man’s angered state.

Above them, they hear a couple of splashes as the red and green haired commanders jump off the ship and land nearby. They transport large partly opened chests that contain Doflamingo's hard earned Devil Fruits from the Numancia Flamingo back to their snail ship.

Sanji

Well done, guys! Just haul them somewhere in the back.

Doflamingo

HEY! Those are mine!

Sanji

Now, now…what on earth are you planning to do with them…hmm?

Doflamingo growls and attempts to stand. Before he can push himself up, Sanji points a sharp and dangerous dagger across his throat. He stills and gulps down nervously.

Sanji

We’re still talking. Sit.

Doflamingo grits his teeth and does as he says. Feeling helpless, he crosses his arms and waits for Sanji to speak.

Sanji

Good boy.

Doflamingo

You want to talk, Mr. Prince? So talk.

Sanji pulls the dagger away and returns to sheathe it back behind his belt. Satisfied with his answer, he offers Doflamingo his cigarette.

Doflamingo cocks an eyebrow at him and takes it. He takes a long drag and exhales, trying to get himself to relax and collect himself more calmly.

Sanji

I need your help.

Doflamingo

Fuck off.

Sanji

Hear me out.

Doflamingo waves his hand that's holding the cigarette, gesturing for Sanji to keep talking.

Sanji

I need a temporary alliance again. There are things that I need to do, and I know you need something from me–several things, in fact.

Doflamingo

You mean like the Devil Fruit that’s in your pocket right now? And those other fruits that you just took from my ship?

Sanji

Among other things.

Doflamingo laughs out loud from the absurdity of Sanji’s proposal. The blonde simply smiles at his reaction and waits for him to calm down and respond.

Doflamingo

You’re barking mad if you think I’d agree to another alliance with you.

Sanji

You still think that I owe you for helping me kill my own father?

Doflamingo

Yes. And…

Doflamingo gestures to the crumbling ruins of the Numancia Flamingo behind him. Coincidentally, the largest mast collapses in itself and falls loudly to the side. The rest of the ship follows as the hull gets snapped in half and the keel practically explodes from the stress of the ruined wreckage. Slowly, one of the halves of the hull sinks into the depths of the sea.

Sanji

Again, not my fault that you didn't pay attention. I'm not the one who sent all your men to swing over and come on board. We had to defend ourselves!

Oh, don't give me that look. Quit being such a baby. It's not a good image of you. I’ll build you a new ship. It’ll be shinier! And more pink! Bird head and all!

Doflamingo

With the money you stole from me….

Sanji

Hey! How I acquired that two billion Beri is not important.

Also I know that you don’t have enough proof. My commanders are really good at covering up fingerprints and any form of evidence.

Doflamingo

You just admitted to it!!! And didn’t you say that you stole one billion…? Why is the number climbing up?

Sanji

Guilty until proven. You barely even noticed three billion Berri missing from your treasury so clearly you don’t need so much gold. Look–

Doflamingo slaps his forehead from the whole ridiculousness of the situation.

Sanji

I need to attend the Levely. And I know you have been extended an invitation for the next one.

Doflamingo grins. He laughs his deep maniacal laugh.

Doflamingo

What’s wrong? Are you offended that you didn’t get an invitation to the party?

Of course you didn't get one. You're a new king. They don't just let anyone in. It's taken years for me to properly be seen as one. Meanwhile…

All you’ve done so far in your rulership is to tear down your father’s legacy that he and your ancestors worked so hard to build. He used to take part in it. And now they're wondering what the hell you're doing to everything he owned.

Sanji

I stand by the decisions I have made and I have no regrets doing so. But…I need to be there this year. It is imperative that I attend.

Doflamingo

So what you’re saying is that you’d do anything for me to help you attend the Levely…. That I can ask you for whatever I want and you have no choice but to do as you’re told?

It was Sanji’s turn to laugh out loud. Doflamingo loses his smile at that.

Sanji

Oh no, dear. Far from that. Sure, I’m happy to discuss the terms and conditions with you for a fair exchange. I do admit that you’re my first most preferred choice though. But I’d be a fool if I don’t have any other options to turn to.

Doflamingo raises a curious brow at that.

Doflamingo

I'm your first choice? Why?

Sanji gives him a wide grin. He stands.

Sanji

So I can do this….

Slowly, Sanji lifts up a leg and straddles himself on Doflamingo’s lap. He spreads his hands out, gliding them from the tips of his shoulders to the wide of his neck.

Doflamingo makes a growling noise from the back of his throat and grips the blonde's waist, pulling him close.

Doflamingo

And you think this is enough? With everything you owe me.

Sanji

Please, you're the one who owes me. Killing Germa’s previous ruler also benefited you, Warlord.

Sanji slides his hands up to cup Doflamingo's face. He pulls him to lightly touch his nose on his, teasing him.

Doflamingo

How did you know…?

Sanji

Let's just say that I have my sources….

Sanji grinds himself over Doflamingo's erect cock, earning him a soft moan in return. Slowly, he turns his head gently to the side to face the horizon beyond them.

Sanji

And…I did escort you home. With all my commanders in tow.

Doflamingo sees small shapes in the water making splashes towards a large familiar island in the distance. When he squints his eyes, he can see his men floating on lifesavers swimming towards the shores of Dressrosa.

Doflamingo

Oh, for fuck's sake…. We were that close to home?! You said we're in your territory!

Sanji chuckles and pushes himself off the man. He walks towards the edge of the rocky surface and watches the events on the distant island.

Sanji

I am serious about that date though.

And… you know how much I'm worth.

He turns and throws Doflamingo a den-den mushi. The man catches it with a single open palmed hand.

Sanji

As for the Levely…think about what you may need from me. You've told me before that you wanted a more permanent alliance, so let's talk. Call me when you're ready.

Or you know…just for fun.

At that, Sanji walks off to return to his snail ship.

Doflamingo

Wait.

The blonde stops in his tracks and looks over his shoulder.

Doflamingo

I think I may have a way for you to get in…but you may not like it.

What are you doing tonight?

Sanji gives him a smirk.

Sanji

Oh, you know. Probably the usual stuff. Scheming. Plundering. Expanding.

I'm curious to hear as to what your plan is, Doffy. It sounds like you already took this into consideration.

Doflamingo

Want to come by and… talk? Usual time and place.

Sanji

…Talk, huh? Sure.

But you're not allowed to touch yourself until I get there.

Doflamingo

Deal.

Sanji

Oh…one last thing.

How did me and my…commanders go today? Do you think we work well together?

Doflamingo

Well enough. You're too…comfortable with each other. Too cuddly and domestic.

Sanji

No, we’re not! We’re the opposite of that! We hate each other!

Doflamingo cocks an unimpressed eyebrow at him and gestures a hand towards the now wrestling red, blue and green commanders as they try to fight for the one fishing rod they have, demanding that they each want to take a turn to show Blue “how it’s done”, while the pink one tries to pry them all apart atop the snail’s shell.

The blonde pauses then begins to laugh, walking towards them. When he nears the edge of the rocky terrain, he turns his gaze to him one last time.

Sanji

Maybe they just hate me then.

Doflamingo

If you want my advice?

Sanji

I don't think I do.

Doflamingo

Kill them. Before you get too attached. Having siblings while running a kingdom can get...complicated.

Sanji

You're mad. But…I'll keep that in mind if they give me a reason to.

Sanji winks at him, sending shivers down his spine. The blonde gives his commanders a wave, signalling them to start up the snail as he jumps on board.

Niji

Did I hear that right? That you'll kill us if we give you a reason to?

Sanji

Hey, I think you have a bite!

Niji

ACK–!

Yonji

For the record…we all heard it. It came from your horndog.

Doflamingo

What–?! Stop calling me his horndog! My name is Donquixote Doflamingo!!!

He watches the Germa vessel with all its passengers depart. They all bid him farewell in order of age.

Vinsmokes

Bye, Do–Donqui... uh… Duffy!!

Until next time, Mr. Don!

See you, loser!

Don't forget our date later, Doffy~!

Later, bird for brains!

Doflamingo

Close, but not quite.

Getting there but say the whole thing next time!

That's even worse.

I won't, Mr. Prince!

See you, Winch-for-arms.

Yonji

Not an insult, but alright!

Doflamingo can't help but smile to himself, feeling the start of an attachment to the blonde and his armada of a family. After a few moments, he sighs exasperatedly and stands on his feet.

Diamante

Young m–master…

Doflamingo looks up and sees his first mate poking his head out from the unsunk side of the wrecked ship, still coiled around in chains.

Diamante

What the hell was that all about?

Did you at least get your Devil Fruit back?

Doflamingo

…A practice run. Mr. Prince needed an assessment of his performance with his commanders so I gave it to him.

And no…I didn't get the fruit back but apparently I got a date so….

Diamante lets out a defeated sigh.

Diamante

So…what now? How are we supposed to get home?

Doflamingo

We swim.

—

Law swipes his sword upwards, clipping strands of hair from the blonde's fringe.

Sanji ducks down at the last second. A nervous sweat drops from the side of his brow as he takes several steps back.

Sanji

Getting better, Traffy. But I still need to see more of that footwork. You leave your left too open.

Law

Hmph.

Sanji

How are you feeling?

Law

I could eat….

Sanji

Yeah, alright.

Law

You're not going to insist that we keep going?

Sanji

I'm not a monster. No one starves under my watch.

Law sheaths his sword and hums in acknowledgement.

Law

So…

Sanji begins circling around him, occasionally picking up small pebbles from the ground.

Sanji

So what?

Law

How was your uh… date… with Doflamingo?

Sanji

Good.

Law

Just…good?

Sanji

Since you insisted on the details…

We had a good talk then fucked for two days straight–no…three? Something like that. We eventually needed to eat and Niji came by several times to see if I'm ready to go home.

Law

Please spare me the colourful details….

Sanji

Hey! You asked.

Law

I was asking about what happened afterwards and the Levely! Did you get what you needed from it?

Sanji

You can say that…

With a flick of his wrists, Sanji sends the pebbles in his hands to fly towards Law who grabs one end of his coat and pulls it up to his head, blocking them before they hit him.

Law

Stop that!

Sanji

What? It was one last test to see how much you've improved and if you were paying attention!

To answer your question, let's just say we both got what we wanted. It’s…when we formed a more permanent alliance and….

Law

He ate the Devil Fruit?

Sanji nods.

Sanji

Yes. The very one that he's after.

We cut it up and–

Law

Are you about to paint me a picture?

Sanji

Then I put it all over my–

Law

Please, don't.

Sanji

…Then he–

Law

Mr. Prince-ya!

Sanji

What? Talking about it helps!

Law nurses the bridge of his nose with his fingers, trying to ease the now increasing headache from having to listen to Sanji's many back stories.

Sanji takes the opportunity to flick him one last pebble but Law redirects it away from him by raising his sheathed sword slightly so it bounces off its handle.

Law

Will you quit it, Sanji-ya?!

Sanji

I promise that's the last one. Great progress today, Traffy. That'll have to do…for now.

Law

I haven't even beaten you yet….

Sanji

I know. Let's resume training after the festival.

And…please don't call me by name in public. You'll get in trouble.

Sanji pockets his hands and proceeds to walk through the path towards town. Law follows him closely behind.

Law

Why me and not you?

Sanji takes a deep breath, and looks up at the silhouette of the tree canopy against the starry sky.

Sanji

Anyone who knows my identity becomes a target from the Marines…. I can't have that with the Marimo. I was hoping that it would be secret from you for a while longer. They're relentless, and they'd do anything to learn more about me.

Law

Is…that why you haven't told him? Because he could potentially lose his Warlord status?

The blonde chuckles.

Sanji

Even if they did question him, he wouldn't know…it's the safest bet. He didn't even bother asking me about it. Can you believe it? Two decades and not one question. He just does what he's told as long as there's a fight in it so he can get better than Mihawk.

So bloody adorable…. I could squish his face. And…other things.

Law

You're trying to shield him from the Marines…the very organisation who he's working for.

Sanji

If you want to put it that way….

Law

And…I already have a bounty. The Marines are after me no matter what. As for my crew….

Sanji

I lost it in a bet.

Law looks at him in astonishment and disbelief.

Sanji

Bepo has a surprisingly good poker face, okay?! He gets all sparkly and cute with those…big teary bear eyes….

If the Marines somehow find out how much you and your crew know about me, your bounty will either increase or they'll want you only “Alive”. Both, if you piss off the wrong officer.

Law

I guess my crew has done well so far…. I had no idea that they knew.

Sanji

So…whose tongue slipped?

Law

Does it matter?

But honestly? …It was all of them, if you can believe it. I think they found your last stash of pre-made cocktails.

Sanji

Hah!

Law

And…Doflamingo?

Sanji

He begged for it so he could call my name in bed.

Law

Ugh…

Sanji

What? This is why I don't skip details on my dates! That's where the intimate details surface. I was younger and didn't realise how much it could have impacted his life…. Sometimes I do wonder if he's gotten in trouble because of it. Unless he's that good at hiding things for me….

Want to hear how it happened? It was the second time we got together. He–

Law

Please, please keep it to yourself. I really don't want the image stuck in my head of my arch nemesis doing the unmentionable.

Sanji

Are you sure? It's a good story!

Law

I'm good, thanks.

…You don't have any more feelings for him, right?

Sanji opens his mouth to say something immediately. After a few moments, he finds that he's unable to answer the question.

Law

Seriously?

After all this time? With everything he's done to you?

Sanji

Can you blame me? He's the one who got the Marines and Admirals off our backs after Sabaody. Even after finding out that I'm travelling with you.

That takes guts. And a manic amount of dedication. It's not easy to ignore his efforts.

The doctor frowns at that. He keeps his gaze straight, thinking deeply about the situation at hand.

Law

I didn't realise that he's responsible for putting out fires. I thought we'd run into more trouble by now…. The papers seem to be the only issue left.

Sanji

Morgans is my problem. I'll…have to pay him a kind visit next time I'm able to.

As for the Marines’ involvement… Doflamingo is the only one who has the connections to do what he did. I don't even know if any other Warlord has the same pull with the navy other than a former Celestial Dragon.

Law keeps quiet at that, wondering what things would be like if Corazon was still alive and how he'd personally handle incidents if it's him that's in trouble from the Marines.

He suddenly stops in his tracks and shoots a glare towards a cluster of tall bushes. Sanji takes a step behind him, studying his reaction. He purposely drops his guard to give the doctor an opportunity to prove himself.

Sanji

Talk to me, Traffy. What do you see? What do you feel?

Law

I feel…odd. Like…my instincts are telling me to fight or flee….

Right now it's…both? Like I have to stand my ground. It…my body wants to find out more.

Sanji hovers a hand over Law's shoulder and gently clasps it. He gives him a gentle shake.

Sanji

Try to relax. Don't fight it. Let that instinct guide your senses. Just go with the flow.

Whatever's behind that bush might not want you to see it just yet. But that's the next step. You need to feel around it to identify it. Sort of like deducing through the process of elimination.

So tell me… what do you see?

Law

Ugh… that just makes it a bit more complicated but I think I get the idea.

I see… a very grumpy… very angry… is that… a ball of… grass?

A familiar green-headed swordsman emerges from behind the bushes, stumbling forwards and lands face first into the ground. His hair and clothes are disheveled and filthy from the jungle.

Sanji

Close. It's a Marimo!

----------

"The Other Side" Hazbin Hotel cover is stuck in my head as I drew the cover ❤️

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zosan-secondchances · 3 months ago

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The Pirate King of the North: The Tale of The Koala and The Fox

Main Themes: Villain Sanji, Alternate Universe, Zosan Ship

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22

Here you go I guess.

#pirate king of the north #I'm so sorry for the extra long chapter #vinsmoke sanji #roronoa zoro #villain sanji #op fanfic #zosan #opfanart #one piece fanart #koala x sanji #sun pirates #fisher tiger #jinbei #hatchan one piece #trafalgar law #young love #sanji law friendship

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zosan-secondchances · 3 months ago

Text

Me: Finally done. Shortest chapter I've ever written.

Tumblr: Oh boy.

#it's opposite day #oh boy here we go #writing things

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zosan-secondchances · 3 months ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: Part 15

Main Themes: Villain Sanji, Alternate Universe, Zosan Ship

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22

After an afternoon rest and refreshing themselves, Zoro, Sanji and Law begin making their way to the city to check in on the festivities. The blonde had managed to resecure the restraints with help from the swordsman to honour his promise with Wyper. While there were some internal struggles, Gan Fall's drug still hadn't worn off completely so it made the process more bearable. Sanji was thankful that Doflamingo's image didn't invade his mind this time, allowing him to solely focus his attention on the swordsman who remained quiet through the whole affair.

As they walk, Law starts the discussion about Gan Fall's enigmatic clue as to where the Nola's old burrow could be.

Law

He said follow the path of the Rainbow Serpent…whatever that is. Perhaps Nola's old skin shed? Does it have iridescent properties?

Do you think Wyper knows where the burrow is but wouldn't tell us?

Sanji

Good thinking about Nola's old skin. I think our first step would be to give her a visit when we're ready to go.

Wyper said that he didn't know of its existence, remember? It could be that Gan Fall didn't want to tell anyone else–including him. It would explain the very obscured clue.

Zoro

Speaking of…why did he remove your cuffs again?

Sanji

Oh… uh… so I can change clothes and take a break from them.

Zoro grunts, seemingly unsatisfied with his answer.

Zoro

Uh-huh.

Sanji

What, you don't believe me? What's with that tone of voice?

Zoro

Nothing.

Law

Are you two seriously doing this right now?

Sanji

If you have something to say, lay it on me, Mosshead.

Zoro

I said “NOTHING”!!

Zoro storms ahead of them, wanting to distance himself as far away from the blonde as possible.

Law

That’s not the way into town, Zoro-ya!!

The swordsman's figure disappears behind a cluster of thick trees.

Law

Oh, for fuck's sake–

As Law is about to run after Zoro, Sanji grabs him by the arm and stops him.

Sanji

Don't bother. He won't get far in the valley. I need to talk to you in private anyway.

Law

We still need to discuss Corazon’s trail!

Sanji fishes out a cigarette from his pocket and lights it, never breaking eye contact with Law. When he exhales smoke, he gives him a devilish smile.

Sanji

I've already figured it out. Do you trust me?

Law arches a brow and straightens up. He taps his shoulder a couple of times with the sheath of his sword, deep in thought.

Law

You really know where it is? Why don't you just tell me now?

Sanji

Because there's something we need to do first and foremost.

Law

What–

Sanji suddenly swings his foot at Law's head. The doctor's question was cut short as he ducked down, his cap almost getting knocked off.

Law

What the hell, Mr. Prince-ya?!

The blonde follows his kick’s momentum and whirls his body in the air, his other foot aimed for another hit at Law's face. Instead of dodging, the doctor bends his knees and holds his sheathed sword to collide with Sanji's foot, blocking it. His own feet sink down into the ground from the impact.

Law

What's the meaning of this?!

Law's arms and Sanji's foot shake at the strong tension. The blonde's eyes are icy cold while the doctor's is full of confusion.

Law

Is this the part where you stab me in the back?

Sanji

This is the part where I teach you a lesson or two. So pay attention.

Sanji retracts his foot to deliver a barrage of swift kicks. Law attempts to redirect some of the force by walking backwards while blocking. He was successful with the first combination kicks but Sanji's quick legwork eventually hits him on the chest. He grunts and summons his room ability quickly and teleports a distance away.

Law

I fuckin' knew it. You're–

Before he could finish his thoughts, he sees Sanji charging towards him then disappears from sight.

Law's eyes widen as he frantically looks around. He receives a strong blow on his back, sending him crashing towards a thick tree. He grunts on impact and slides down to the ground. As he pushes himself up by the arms, he sees Sanji walking towards him slowly. He senses a calm but dangerous aura emanating from him.

Sanji

Doflamingo strikes dangerously with intention to kill.

Law

What…?

Sanji raises a foot and stomps it towards the doctor's face. Law only just manages to dodge it by tilting his head to the side. The tree trunk he's leaning on receives a deep crater from the kick. The blonde holds his foot next to his face.

Sanji

He is merciless, resourceful and persistent. Each string on his fingers is unforgiving and indestructible, much like his spirit. His Devil Fruit is a perfect fit for him.

You, on the other hand, are too reliant on your powers. It's exhausting you quicker than you think.

Law

What the fuck are you on about?!

Sanji pulls his foot out and raises it above his head. As he brings it down, Law rolls away. The blonde smashes the ground where the doctor was.

Sanji

You are indeed powerful but you can’t last the day fighting. But what you do have is versatility and your swordsmanship. You need to use them more to your advantage and pace yourself.

He raises his foot and stomps down once more. Law scrambles backwards, desperate to get away.

Law

Stop it! I’m too tired for this shit!

Sanji

Do you think Doflamingo will wait for you to be fully rested? No, this is the opportunity for us to work on your stamina.

We don't have a lot of time. And I need you to master your observation haki before the day is out.

Law

What?!

Law scrambles up to his feet and unsheathes his sword. At that, Sanji jumps and begins another assault of kick combinations from above. The doctor begins blocking him with his blade while walking backwards once more.

Sanji

Come on, Traffy!! Is this all you got?!

Counter!

Law growls angrily and finally swings his sword towards Sanji when he sees an opening.

The blonde smiles in satisfaction and shifts his body sideways. He raises his wrists to catch the sword with his restraints, his feet planted firmly on the ground.

Law

Why now?! Couldn't we have done this back at the Polar Tang?!?

Sanji

You’re a smart man, Traffy. What do you think our little game was for?

Law

Our…game?

Sanji uses his strength to force his wrists down onto the sword as a coat of black covers his limbs from the tips to his fingers up to his arms. Law's knees buckle and fall onto the ground.

Law

You–you were studying us?!

Sanji

That’s one reason, dear. Having you and Marimo under my disposal would have been beneficial as well. But that’s not important now that there are more pressing matters in our hands.

Here’s what I’ve learned. I'm confident that the Marimo can survive Doflamingo's assault.

You, however…

Law

Don't underestimate me!

Sanji

I'm not. I'm stating how things are currently.

Sanji swings his hands around to coil Law's wrists and blade between the chains of his restraints. He swiftly turns and throws Law over him, slamming the man hard on the ground, effectively disarming him.

Law grimaces and writhes about. He attempts to roll onto his arms so he can push himself up but Sanji takes a step and stomps on his chest to keep him pinned down.

Law

Fuck–!

Sanji

So here's the deal…

Sanji untangles Law's sword from his restraints and throws it to the side.

Sanji

To keep things even, I won’t use my hands or haki. My feet need practice anyway.

He raises his hands and spreads his fingers out to show them to Law. The armament haki slowly dissipates from his arms.

Law

I don’t need to learn shit from you.

Sanji raises a brow.

Sanji

So you’d rather die in Doflamingo’s hands? Listen to yourself.

Unless…I sweeten the deal to keep things interesting?

He removes his foot from Law and walks away, circling around the area while playing with his goatee as he thought deeply.

Law grumbles frustratingly and scrambles to grab his sword. He clumsily charges at the blonde who simply steps aside to dodge his attack. The doctor collides against the tree past him and slides comically to the ground.

Sanji

Losing composure when emotional…tsk tsk. We have to work on that too. You could learn a thing or two from the Marimo.

Law wipes the dirt off his face and sits up. He glares at Sanji who continues his walk around as if it’s a casual stroll.

Law

I’m going to slice you up when I get my hands on you.

Sanji

But that’s the problem…isn’t it? You can’t.

Sanji walks and squats down in front of Law like he’s a small child being spoken to.

Sanji

I have a good one.

If you fight me and win, I will give you my one point from our game. It’s not over yet until we reach our final destination–the Heart of Skypiea.

Law narrows his eyes at him.

Law

I haven’t even agreed to this whole training thing yet.

Sanji

I’m not giving you a choice, Traffy. But that doesn’t mean I can’t try and motivate you to actually fuckin’ make an effort.

Law lets out a pained groan and glances around. It doesn’t look like Zoro is going to return any time soon and the sun is about to set. The town festivities will begin shortly if they haven’t already started, and he’s not entirely sure how long Sanji intends to keep him. As if reading his mind, the blonde speaks.

Sanji

The Marimo is lost until the sun goes down and the entirety of Skypiea is covered in darkness. He’ll have no choice but to walk towards the lights which the town will be filled with. He’ll find his way like a moth to a flame...literally.

As for the training, I will give you as many tries as you need to beat me. But that’s the catch–we will take as long as we need. The sooner you beat me, the better of course. Otherwise we’ll miss out on the festivities.

Law

You’re practically giving your point away.

Sanji

We don’t know how long we’ve got until we reach our final destination so…who knows? Maybe I’ll manage to get ahead in other ways. It’s my choice to gamble.

Law

This just seems like it only benefits me while you get nothing in return. You realise this, don’t you?

Sanji

Not exactly. I have no choice but to fight with my feet. I’ll get a workout too.

Law

But…that’s all? You’re not asking anything else in return? You still haven’t given me an answer about removing your slave mark.

…You have an odd way to show how much you care, Sanji.

Sanji’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise.

Sanji

You know my name? How?

Law

...Bepo.

The blonde suddenly lets out a hearty laugh. He lets his body drop to sit more comfortably in front of Law.

Law

…and Shachi, Penguin…all the Heart Pirates know about it. When I called them, they were worried about you and accidentally said your name out loud.

Sanji wipes a tear from his eye and grins at him.

Sanji

Of course they did.

With a grunt, Law sits up and crosses his arms. He gives Sanji a serious look.

Law

I’m well aware that it’s supposed to be a secret too.

Sanji

I intended to share it with you at some point but I had a feeling that your crew would eventually tell you about it first.

Law

Does Zoro-ya know?

Sanji

…No.

Law

Why does my crew know but the one man who you trust the most doesn’t? You were about to tell Gan Fall too.

Sanji

If I tell you why, would you be more willing to train under my instruction for the day?

Law blinks and leans back against the tree behind him. He considers the question carefully.

Law

Fine. Not that you’re giving me much of a choice like you said anyway. But I’ll need the full explanation. And I still want that point if I beat you.

Sanji

When you beat me. Remember, we’ll take as long as we need but I really need your observational haki mastered at the very least…preferably before tomorrow.

Law

…What’s going to happen tomorrow?

Sanji closes his eyes and looks down. After some hesitation, he met Law’s gaze once more, his expression darkened.

Sanji

I’m not at liberty to say.

Law

…”Need to know basis”. Got it.

Sanji nods then stands. Law knew exactly what he had meant without speaking further–it’s a warning.

The blonde walks towards Law’s sword, flicks it up with his foot then kicks the back of its handle, sending it flying towards the doctor who tilts his head to dodge the blade but catches it by the handle.

Sanji

Shall we get started?

Law

Aren’t you going to tell me a story first?

Sanji

We’ve wasted enough time. I’ll talk while we fight. Ready yourself.

#pirate king of the north #zosan #law and sanji friendship #vinsmoke sanji #roronoa zoro #opfanart #op fanfic #villain sanji #old sanji #one piece fanfiction #alternate universe #donquixote doflamingo #heart pirates #sanji vs law #queue training montage

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zosan-secondchances · 3 months ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: Part 14

Main Themes: V̷̨͈̘̻̂i̴̗̯̅͒l̸̳̾l̶̲̣͈̉̎͊ä̷̧̭̫̘ḯ̵̜̯̬̜͚̓̀̽n̶̛͚̦̯̈́̄̍͜ ̴͎̭͎̄͜Ś̶̲͆̈́̋ạ̵̢̉ń̵̨̘̲̫̮̎j̶̻̮̝̳̐̊͑͠͝ͅǐ̴̝̱, Alternate Universe, Zosan Ship

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22

All eyes fell on Sanji as the trio are led inside and through the city, escorted by Wyper and a handful of the God's Guards. Normally, entering any form of settlement involves the occasional parade that his people would arrange for him in countries that allied to Germa. For those that aren't, he wears a hood to cover himself with for a discreet way in. This was different. It was the middle of the day and he was in chains with no way to protect his identity.

The frightened citizens whisper suspiciously among each other. Those who are along the stone path part way for them, while some hurriedly carry their young ones inside their houses and lock their doors and windows behind them. From an outsider's perspective, it looks like he'd been arrested and is sent on a humiliating march through the city. Sanji felt exposed and vulnerable. He considers turning around while the exit is closeby.

The weight and the cold temperature of the chains doesn't help. He feels the urge to tear the bloody things off his wrist, and hopes to get their business with Gan Fall out of the way so they can leave and take the restraints off him as soon as possible.

A wave of uneasy pain surges through his body as he sees a flash of Doflamingo's wide grin appear in front of him again. He resists the instinct to flee and focuses on the sensations of his feet, placing one foot forwards one step at a time. Not wanting to be alone, he steels his heart and commits. He tries to keep calm and stay emotionless, knowing that his every move is being watched behind the citizens’ judgemental eyes.

Wyper glances next to him and notices his discomfort. He clears his throat to get his attention.

Wyper

It's not a long walk to see God. I've sent word ahead to get a place ready for you lot to sleep in–if you're staying for the festival.

Sanji curiously blinks at him, feeling relieved and comforted at the hospitality being offered to them.

Sanji

Thanks, but that's not up to me. Run it through with Trafalgar Law.

Wyper

Aren't you in charge? Being Pirate King and all.

Sanji mildly chuckles.

Sanji

That title doesn't mean shit to me. I'm just trying to help out a friend.

Wyper raises a brow.

Wyper

Aren't you trying to recruit pirates under your rule to wage war against the Celestial Dragons and take over the world?

Sanji

Now that's an idea. But where the hell did you hear that from?

Wyper

The papers.

Sanji

The pa–?! Okay, first off, don't believe everything you read from that. I think Morgans hate me for not signing off the rights to use our image to make his silly comics.

Wyper

Morgans?

Sanji

Have you not heard his name? He's in charge of printing out that poor excuse of a newspaper.

Wyper shrugs, looking unbothered.

Wyper

Don't care about who runs it. We just need the information to know what's going on around the world.

Sanji

You should very much care! You said that I'm not bad in real life–your words, not mine! What does that tell you about the stuff you read?

Wyper

That you're a sneaky bastard, probably.

Sanji gasps sarcastically and throws his hands to cover his mouth.

Sanji

You might have just figured me out, Wyper of the God's Guards.

The warrior lets out a small lighthearted chuckle, feeling a bit proud of himself. After a brief pause, Wyper speaks.

Wyper

Hey uh…what’s a “comics”?

They proceed to discuss the topic of entertainment and other content in the WENP for the next five minutes of their walk. Zoro notices their banter from a short distance behind them, walking alongside the doctor who's quietly paying attention to their surroundings.

Then he sees it–that big stupid smile that Sanji brings out that he loves so much. The blonde laughs at something that Wyper had told him, making Zoro scowl. Watching the two of them get along should bring him some comfort that his friends are getting along, but for some reason, this interaction makes him want to hurl the warrior over the valley of the city so he can take his place.

Law

Interesting…

Zoro

Tch.

The swordsman grumpily crosses his arms and tears his gaze away from the two. Desperate for a distraction, he entertains Law.

Zoro

What's interesting?

Law

Wyper is relaxed around the Pirate King.

Zoro

So?

Law

So…look.

Law nods his head towards the crowd who are eyeing them. While the people still part to give way along the path, none of them are running back into their houses. Some have simply glanced towards them and paid them no mind, continuing on their day as usual.

Law

With our God's Guard friend at ease, people seem to be more tolerable of our presence now. At least they're not running away anymore.

The swordsman mumbles grumpily under his breath and glances back to Wyper and Sanji. The blonde looks over his shoulder and meets his eye. Zoro flinches and quickly looks away shyly. He feels the temperature around his face rise.

As they arrive at an open clearing with hundreds of Shandian teepees scattered through the field, one of Wyper’s men runs from behind them to stride alongside the warrior. He leans over and cups his hand to whisper something in his ear. They slow down their walk until they stop. Everyone follows.

Wyper

Ah…that’s a shame.

Wyper waves a hand to dismiss the guard who salutes and runs off. He turns his attention to Zoro.

Wyper

Zoro, I was hoping to have a surprise for you, but unfortunately it didn't quite work out.

Zoro

A… surprise…?

Wyper

One of the other Straw Hats–Nico Robin–was here to study ancient ruins and some of our relics.

Zoro

Robin's here? Why didn't you tell me sooner?!

Wyper

She was. I was too focused on the immediate threat–

Sanji raises an unimpressed brow towards him. Wyper clears his throat to correct himself.

Wyper

Immediate… situation.

Zoro

So where is she now? What did you mean when you said it didn't work out?

Wyper

Apparently she'd been gone for at least a week now. I thought she'd at least say goodbye so we didn’t know that she’d already left.

Zoro

Do you know why?

Wyper shrugs his shoulders.

Wyper

No. Sorry.

Zoro sighs in disappointment as he remembers Nami's advice to keep in touch more often. What he would do right now to be in the presence of someone familiar who he can truly trust. If he had spoken to Robin earlier, maybe she could have told him her current whereabouts and that she could have stayed a bit longer to see him.

Now of all times would be the perfect time to gather allies. He considers reaching out to Luffy to see if they can reunite the Straw Hats to take down Doflamingo for Sanji's sake.

Wyper

All I know is that she was here to learn more about our ancient civilization and the island's Poneglyph.

Zoro

I see. That does sound like her.

Wyper��

I like your new ship by the way. The other one had charm but–

Zoro

THE SUNNY WAS HERE?!

Wyper

Do you not know where your crewmates are? I thought you knew from what you told me earlier.

Zoro

I guess I don't know as much as I thought I did.

Was anyone else with her?

Wyper

Err…some big metal guy with blue hair? Fran-something or other. They seem close.

Zoro groans out loud, beating himself up for missing out yet another friend he could have caught up with.

Zoro

Franky….

Wyper

That's the one.

Let's continue this conversation inside. We've arrived.

Wyper approaches one of the teepees–while it’s made of the same material and is decorated similarly compared to the other dwellings, it’s slightly bigger than the rest. He pulls back the piece of canvas to reveal an opening for them to enter through.

Sanji expected a temple or a palace of sorts–a place fitting for a “God” as they called their leader. He was surprised at how humble the home looked from the outside and the inside. Near the entrance, there is a dedicated sleeping area with a stack of pillows and blankets over a fur rug, and at the far side there are small wooden shelves and drying racks stocked with essential food ingredients.

Sitting in the middle of the small dwelling is an old man with a long beard wearing a well crafted full body metal armour. He has a large platter of various fresh fruits on a wide tree stump table in front of him. Next to him is a winged woman with blonde hair and two orbs sticking out of it which look like her antennas. She looks like she's in the middle of feeding the older man a piece of fruit from the platter using a small fork.

Wyper walks after Zoro, Sanji and Law, squeezing into the small cloth tent. He stands by the far side and takes a small bow.

Wyper

Old man…we talked about this. Why are you in full armour?

Old Man

Old habits die hard I'm afraid.

You've brought guests!

Wyper

Yes, I sent a message ahead. Didn't you get it?

Woman

We got it, but…

Oh my, is that you–Zoro?!

The woman hurriedly drops the utensil and scrambles up on her feet. She runs to the swordsman, giving him a big and tight hug.

Zoro pats her head and grins widely.

Zoro

Conis. It's been years.

The winged woman releases him and places her hands on her chest. She gives him a warm-hearted smile.

Conis

I never thought I'd see you again!

Zoro turns to the old man and gives him a courteous bow.

Zoro

Gan Fall. It's good to see you.

From what I hear though, should we be addressing you as something else?

Gan Fall stands on his feet, albeit unsteadily until the blonde woman catches him and holds him up by the arm.

Conis

Careful!

Gan Fall

Ah, the world's greatest swordsman–Roronoa Zoro!

Are these your friends? Please, join us!

Conis carefully guides the old man back to sit in front of the tree stump table and settles herself next to him. Zoro stands aside so Law and Sanji can take his place standing in front of Gan Fall.

Wyper

God, these are Zoro's companions, Trafalgar Law and the Pirate King of the North. They're both from the North Blue.

Law and Sanji take turns bowing to Gan Fall as their names are called.

Gan Fall

You've come a long way!

No need to be so formal, Wyper. Sit! Sit! Any friend of Zoro’s is a friend of ours.

Wyper gestures for the trio to follow. They sit on the pillows and rugs laid around the tree stump. The sounds of the restraints clinking from Sanji's wrists catch the old man's attention.

Gan Fall

Oi, why's this one in chains?!

Wyper

He's the one who destroyed the sacred site just outside Upper Yard.

Gan Fall

Aha! Oh, that old thing. Don't worry, the grass will grow back. And those old ruins aren't of much use. We need to expand the city anyway. It's getting awfully crowded in the valley. Also, they're a sight for sore eyes! Good riddance, I say!

Wyper

Gan Fall!

Sanji had felt nervous meeting their “God”, not wanting to become enemies so quickly with another country's leader. While he'd normally have more confidence introducing himself to new folks, the guilt of his earlier actions, among other things, have taken a significant impact on his morale. After hearing the old man's words, however, he felt a heavy weight off his shoulders. He returns his kindness with a bow.

Sanji

You're too forgiving, Your Highness.

Gan Fall

But your name is too long–Pirate North something or other–what can I call you?

Sanji chuckles in a deep low voice. He closes his eyes and opens them after a brief pause.

Sanji

I like you, Your Grace. Just call me S–

Gan Fall

Northy! That's easier to remember than...what–King North of the Pirates! And please, Just “Gan Fall” will do. Or Grandpa–like a lot of the other kids do! Haha!

Sanji

Sss…sure.

Zoro blinks at Sanji, then turns away with a grumpy pout, frustrated at missing out an opportunity to potentially learn the man's true name. He tells himself that at least he has another clue now.

Wyper sits himself next to Zoro. The warrior leans over and whispers to him.

Wyper

Err…Zoro, the Sky Knight that you remember may not be the same as before…. His memory hasn't been… reliable.

Zoro quietly nods in acknowledgement, feeling pity for the old man. When he looks up, Conis is plating various fruits from the platter and distributing them around the table.

Gan Fall

Eat! Eat! Don’t wait for my account. You must be weary from the journey.

…So to what honour do we owe the greatest swordsman and his friends?

Zoro rubs the back of his neck awkwardly.

Zoro

I'm not…the greatest swordsman. Not yet anyway.

Gan Fall

Nonsense! You are in our eyes, young man. You took part in saving the entire country from a tyrannical rule. What more can be greater than that? I wouldn't be here if it weren’t for your efforts. Don’t forget that.

Zoro stares at him blankly. He'd genuinely hoped to have returned to Skypiea with the title officiated but Gan Fall's statement left him flattered. Speechless, he smiles warmly at him and starts digging in on his food.

Sanji smirks at Zoro's reaction, feeling happy to see that someone else agrees with him that he’s already the greatest of all swordsmen. He pulls out a cigarette. As he was about to light it, the old man held his hand up.

Gan Fall

Ah-ah. We don't do that here, Northy.

Sanji

Oh–sorry. How rude of me…. I should have asked first. I'll–

Gan Fall

We do this here! Bwahaha!

Gan Fall shuffles around in his waistband and procures a small enclosed bag, tossing it onto the table in front of the blonde. It falls open, revealing buds with a distinct strong scent that Sanji is too familiar with. With his other hand, he leans over and grabs one of the long wooden pipes leaning on a nearby shelf and begins stuffing its chamber with the contents from the bag. Sanji grins widely and turns to Zoro.

Sanji

Oh, I definitely like him.

Conis

Gan Fall!

Gan Fall

What? It's time for my medication! And in my house, we share!

—

Gan Fall's home has a layer of cloudy smoke inside after a couple of hours catching up. The group had become more loose and relaxed under the exposure of Gan Fall's “smoking ceremony”. The swordsman had politely declined on taking a puff but he's happily sharing a large jug of sake with Wyper. Sanji had finally caught up on food that he's skipped for the entire day, and Law felt more energised having directly shared some of Gan Fall's “medication”. “For research,” the doctor insists.

Sanji

Old man, this hits different. Where do you get your stock?

Gan Fall

Hah! As if I'd tell you. If you want to take some home, forget it. You'd just have to visit me more often! Haha!

He leans over and whispers in Sanji's ear…loudly.

Gan Fall

Because you know…I grow them myself. I got a little garden behind some tall corn stalks so Conis can’t find–

Conis

I heard that!

Gan Fall

Let me have my fun, woman!

Conis and Zoro eventually fall into a conversation about the good old days and their recent doings. She proudly shared news of her position as a waitress in a local establishment called the Pumpkin Cafe. She welcomes the trio to come down any time for a treat, to which Zoro promises to drop by at some point.

After a while, Gan Fall finally turns to Law to continue their conversation about Corazon.

Gan Fall

The Marines, huh? We don't get a lot of those up here. They invite trouble.

Wyper nods on the side in agreement as he takes a swill from the jug of sake.

Law

So I've been told.

Corazon may have not dressed like one. He has shaggy blonde hair, wears distinct makeup–wide red lipstick, dark blue spiky shapes on one side of his face–does any of that ring a bell?

Gan Fall

A…bell? Oh! Wyper, is it time?!

Wyper

No, that's not what he meant…we don't ring the other bell until tonight. Trafalgar Law here is asking about a Marine, Corazon…remember?

Gan Fall runs a hand down his beard, thinking carefully.

Gan Fall

Hmm… Corazon… hmm….

Oh, is that one of our saviors, Roronoa Zoro?!

Conis takes a sharp breath in. Zoro blinks at him and sets his jug of sake down.

Conis

Alright, I think you're overdue for your afternoon nap, God. Please–

Gan Fall

Nonsense! We have to entertain our guests!

Conis

Oh…

Sanji takes a long puff from their shared pipe and sets it down on the table gently. He breathes out and eyes the old man up and down. With a gentle voice, he speaks.

Sanji

You were just saying you wanted a nap, Gan Fall.

Gan Fall stares at him.

Gan Fall

Oh, of course! Of course.

Law

But…

Wyper stands abruptly.

Wyper

I was afraid of this… Law, we can try asking more about your Marine friend again tomorrow.

Gan Fall

Wait!

Everyone stills and looks at the old man.

Gan Fall

I don't know about a “Corazon”, but there was a group of Marines that came down here a long time ago. Around thirty years ago, I think. Troublesome bunch. They’re not the first of the navy to visit, but that lot in particular stuck to me…. I think one of them was prone to fire.

Law

F–fire…?

Gan Fall

Yes. I saw the whole thing. This tall handsome man was just trying to light up his cigarette but he somehow spontaneously combusted into flames.

Law

That’s him!

Gan Fall

Hah! Your friend is quite clumsy isn’t he?

…Oh yes, I think it’s coming back to me now!

Gan Fall continues to run his hand over his long beard and closes his eyes, thinking deeply.

Gan Fall

Well, that man was kind enough from what I saw, but the others…they wanted to take and weaponise Nola! The poor girl. They drove her out of her own home to try to capture her. That or they just wanted to study the burrow where she was born. No one has ever stepped foot in there and come out alive, not to our knowledge…. It is said to be home to the “heart” of Sky Island.

Law

Nola… the giant snake?

Gan Fall

Don't worry, she's completely harmless! You're free to visit her old burrow if you wish.

Mind you…I don’t know what lurks in the old girl’s burrow anymore…. Tread carefully.

Sanji

Marimo, do you think your archeologist friend may have checked it out?

Zoro

I honestly wouldn’t know.

Wyper

I didn’t even know of its existence until just now….

Gan Fall

You wouldn’t know where it is unless you know what to look for.

At that, Gan Fall stands. He walks around weakly and kneels in front of Law who sheds a nervous sweatdrop on the side of his brow. The old man reaches out and points a finger onto his chest.

Gan Fall

Whatever you find in there, please, take good care of it.

Law

"It"? Do you have a clue what we'll find?

Gan Fall gives him a warm smile and stands. When his legs wobble, Conis runs and holds his arms stead just in time.

Gan Fall

Something…ancient. If it’s still there.

If you’re destined to find it, you will reach it. Follow the path of the rainbow serpent.

Oh and uh…

The old man turns his gaze to Sanji.

Gan Fall

I'll trust you to keep the bag. The effects should wear off in a couple of hours…unless you have another way of sobering up. Hah!

At that he winks at the blonde and turns away, walking towards the pile of beddings where Conis gently sets him down to rest. Wyper takes one last swill from the jug of sake before clearing his throat.

Wyper

What's it to be, Trafalgar Law? Are you staying?

Law turns his gaze to the swordsman who shrugs.

Zoro

The festival could be fun if you're up for it. Unless….

Zoro and Law both look at Sanji who is stuffing his pocket with the bag that Gan Fall had left him.

Sanji

What?

Zoro

The longer we stay here, the longer you have to put up with those…things.

He nods towards the chains between the blonde's wrists.

Sanji

Y'know, the smoking ceremony made me forget about the stuff. I feel lighter.

Zoro

You’re just…okay with them now?

Sanji

I didn’t say that…. It just makes it more…bearable, I suppose.

Law

So you don't mind if we stay longer?

Sanji

I didn't say that either… but…

He looks down worriedly, trying to think of where Niji may be. What he needs is time to gather his thoughts and somehow find a way to sneak out by himself to look for his brother.

Sanji

I…guess there’s no reason not to stay?

He forces a smile, trying to hide his ever increasing anxiousness.

The doctor sighs and turns to Wyper.

Law

We'll stay but leave at first light.

Wyper

Good. I'll show you to your hut.

—

Wyper escorts the trio towards an isolated side of the city within the perimeter of the valley. The area opens up to an untouched jungle with a small hut in the middle of a clearing. When they arrive inside, they find their belongings already transported and piled neatly in a corner of a cozy living area.

Wyper

It's a little off from town but I figured you'd want some quiet.

Zoro

Thanks Wyper. We appreciate it.

Wyper

I’m required to return to my duties but if you need me, I’ll be in the city.

Law

Thanks.

Zoro-ya, Mr. Prince-ya, I need to contact the Polar Tang to check on my crew. Don’t bother me or do anything dumb while I’m busy.

At that, Law grabs his pack and hurries into a room closest to the exit then locks the door behind him.

Zoro hoists his own bag over his shoulder and bends over to pick up Sanji's out of habit. Upon remembering that there’s no longer a reason to sleep together in the same room, he stops. He stands and takes the farthest room without a word, avoiding eye contact.

Wyper

Uh…Zoro, that's the bathroom.

Zoro

I KNEW THAT!

Zoro shyly shifts into the room next to it and slams the door behind him.

Sanji chuckles and walks over to his own bag. Wyper eyes him and rubs the back of his neck, hesitant to say something.

Sanji

I assume that I’m not allowed to take a break from these?

He holds up his wrists and shakes the shackles side to side, showing Wyper what he's referring to.

Wyper

Sorry, you’re still within the city boundaries. I know you like Gan Fall but if you noticed, he didn't tell me to remove them from you.

Sanji groans.

Sanji

I did notice, actually. I just…

His eyes glance towards the swordsman’s room.

Wyper

What?

Sanji

It’s kinda hard to change with it on.

Wyper

Oh… in that case…

Wyper takes a step forward, nearly closing the distance between them.

Sanji

Woah–wait, wait, wait. What are you doing?

Wyper

I’m taking them off for the moment so you can change your clothes.

Sanji

That’s…allowed?

Wyper

If it’s done quickly.

The warrior raises a hand and offers it to him.

Wyper

So?

Sanji hesitates. After a brief pause, he places a hand in Wyper’s.

Wyper smirks at him and gently pulls him closer. With his other hand, he fishes out the key from his pocket and begins unlocking the restraints from the blonde’s wrists slowly, never breaking eye contact.

Wyper

If you want, I can help you dress down too.

Sanji’s eyes dart to Zoro’s room.

Sanji

I…

A heavy thump catches his attention. When he looks down, his wrists feel a lot lighter and his binds have fallen onto the wooden floor. A wave of relief washes over him. He rubs and stretches his now free hands, appreciative to have a small moment without the cursed things.

Suddenly, he feels hands slide up to his elbows as his body gets pulled flush against the warrior’s.

Wyper

So what’s it going to be?

Sanji can’t help but smirk at him.

Sanji

You do this with all your prisoners?

Wyper

You’d be the first.

As Wyper angles his head and makes his move, Sanji quickly places a finger between their lips, blocking him.

Sanji

I’m going to need some privacy. And…space.

The warrior blinks at him and quickly takes a step back. He averts his gaze.

Wyper

S–sorry… I think I just had too much to drink.

Sanji eyes him up and down. He doesn’t detect any malice from the man so he takes a step forward, careful to maintain a short distance between them. He attempts to comfort him.

Sanji

Look, there’s just… a lot of things going on. I don’t want you to get all mixed up in all the mess. I’ve made a lot of those already.

I…actually thought you’re into the Marimo.

Wyper

Marimo…? You mean Zoro?

Well…yeah.

Sanji

Oh…

After a brief pause, the realisation dawns on him.

Sanji

OH!

Wyper shrugs his shoulders.

Wyper

If you two are up for it.

Sanji

Where have you been all my life?

You know, I would have taken you up on that offer earlier in the year but…

Wyper notices the blonde eye Zoro’s room once more.

Sanji

I think it’s best if I… don’t mess up his life any more than I already have.

The warrior gives him a warm smile and nods in understanding. He turns his heel and walks to the exit.

Sanji

Oh…Wyper, I–

Wyper

No need to explain. But…the offer’s there.

Wyper gives him one last wink before opening the door.

Wyper

Can I trust you to have those shackles back on before you leave the hut?

Sanji

You’d… let me leave it off?

Wyper

As long as you’re in here. I know that it must have been painful for you to keep it on. I’m not dumb enough to try and put them back on you either, especially after all that trouble that you and your swordsman went through. But…you didn’t hear any of this from me.

See you later at the festival?

Sanji

Uh…y–yes.

At that, Wyper leaves and closes the door behind him.

Feeling exasperated from the day, Sanji runs his hands over his face and turns away from the door. He finds himself smiling.

Sanji

What the hell just happened?

----------

Due to health issues, I'll probably be slowing down on writing and drawing stuff for my fics 🙏 Thanks for reading!

39 notes · View notes

zosan-secondchances · 3 months ago

Text

The Pirate King of the North: Part 13

Main Themes: V̷̨͈̘̻̂i̴̗̯̅͒l̸̳̾l̶̲̣͈̉̎͊ä̷̧̭̫̘ḯ̵̜̯̬̜͚̓̀̽n̶̛͚̦̯̈́̄̍͜ ̴͎̭͎̄͜Ś̶̲͆̈́̋ạ̵̢̉ń̵̨̘̲̫̮̎j̶̻̮̝̳̐̊͑͠͝ͅǐ̴̝̱, Alternate Universe, Zosan Ship

Warning: Long post ahead and some One Piece spoilers. Contains strong language and explicit content.

Part 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 (Special) | 19

Law

Let’s stop here for a break. I’m feeling exhausted….

Zoro, Sanji and Law had been hiking uphill for another couple of hours. When they finally reach a plateau, the doctor huffs and nearly collapses as he sits onto a flat rock. He drops his belongings unceremoniously on the ground and leans back on his arms. There's still more ascension to go, but the ever increasing altitude is starting to catch up to everyone.

Zoro

Already?

Law

We’re finally back on track, and it’s midday. That’s a win for me. I just…I just need a second. I used a lot of my abilities in the last couple of days.

He begins rummaging through his pack and takes a long drink of water from his canister.

Zoro settles his bag next to his and digs around for a bottle of sake. Law rolls his eyes at the sight of the swordsman opening the bottle and taking a swill.

Law

Really, Zoro-ya?

Zoro

I’m thirsty too.

Law

Drink water! I can’t believe you still have some that left.

Law swings his head around.

Law

Where’s Mr. Prince-ya?

Zoro’s eye widens as he straightens up and frantically glances around. When he couldn't see the blonde, he shoves his bottle of drink back into his pack.

Zoro

I’m going to look for him.

Law

Hold on–!

Sanji

Calm down. I was only taking a piss.

Sanji emerges from behind a cluster of trees and shrubs nearby then proceeds his way towards them.

Sanji

Are you back to watching me like a hawk?

Zoro

You disappeared last night and wouldn’t tell us where you’d gone.

Sanji pauses in his tracks to shoot him a dangerous glare.

Zoro

You come back–clearly beaten up and hurt.

So yes, I am.

He felt annoyed at Sanji at this point especially after he got his groins kicked earlier that day so he thought he’d try a more direct approach, much to Law’s dismay. He doesn't expect to receive any sort of reciprocation or gratitude from the blonde for trying to care. His frustrations mainly root from the fact that the man doesn’t see that he deserves good in his life, and, right now, it seems like all he just wants to do is cut ties and push everyone away.

Sanji almost looked like he wanted to retaliate from his words. Zoro welcomed them, trying to rile him up on purpose. At least he’d actually talk to him after hours of painful silence and looking down in the dumps. He wanted him angry, sad, frustrated, or confused–anything. He wanted him to open up and be more honest, including with himself, even if that meant destroying more of the land if that’s what it would take to let out all his pain. Instead, the blonde silently walks past them, bumping his shoulder into his along the way.

Zoro

What, are you back to ignoring me again?

Law

Zoro-ya…

Zoro tuts disapprovingly. He crosses his arms and turns away from him.

Zoro

Figures. You’re good at that. Pushing people away instead of asking for help when you really need it.

Sanji stops abruptly. The other two can’t see his face but Zoro knew that he’d struck a nerve. The blonde drops his pack on the ground and it lands with a loud thump and a rattle. The swordsman begins to walk towards him slowly with a challenging smile forming at the corner of his lips. In each step, he accentuated his speech.

Zoro

What do you think would have happened to you at this point if not for us?

Law stands, glaring at him. He holds out his hand and puts himself between them but it doesn’t stop Zoro. He simply pushes the doctor aside and continues his approach.

Law

There’s a time and place for this, swordsman.

Zoro

You know what I’m saying is true, Traffy.

If I didn’t follow you into the Celestial Dragon’s house, where do you think you’d be right now?

Law

Zoro-ya…

Sanji slowly raises a hand to unhook the clasp of his own cloak which flies far into the wind and disappears downhill.

Zoro

Afterwards, if Traffy wasn’t there to operate on you, you’d have died then.

Law

That's enough!

Zoro

And if I didn't have Nami around, you’d still have that chain around your fuckin’ neck!

Sanji’s shoulders flinch as Zoro raises his voice and closes in on him.

Zoro

Why don't you just tell me what’s going on?! Can't you see we're just trying to help you?!

In a split second, Sanji vanishes, only to reappear right in front of him with a claw held aloft the side of his head. Zoro's eye widens at the unexpected movement. He'd been so focused on making his point across that he didn't realise that he let his guard down.

A large but fast projectile suddenly finds itself between them.

Sanji swipes upwards to redirect the surprise attack away from Zoro, palming what looks to be a cannonball to lift it up in the air while putting his body between them. From the contact, it blows up, separating him and the swordsman away from each other.

Zoro slides on his feet backwards with a grimace. He forces his hands down on the ground to get extra traction until he stops.

Having taken the brunt of the attack, Sanji couldn't recover just as well. He spins violently in the air as the blast sends him off the plateau. He lands roughly and rolls far downhill until his back hits a large boulder with a loud crack. Smoke emanates from his arm which he tried to deflect the cannonball with. When Zoro looks down the hill, he sees that the blonde remains still, unconscious.

Zoro

CURLS!!

Shadows descend from the trees around them. A contingent of winged warriors surround and point their weapons at the separated Zoro and Law who didn’t hesitate to draw their swords. The swordsman recognised their coats as that of White Beret’s uniform except that it’s of a dark shade and they aren’t wearing hats like they used to. Some have grass skirts and other tribal fittings from the typical Shandian outfit.

Zoro detects a particularly strong presence near Sanji who has gained consciousness and is struggling to push his upper body up by an arm where he wasn’t hit. A warrior with long auburn hair looms over him and points his large weapon against the side of his head. It looks like a bazooka decorated with gold trims and intricate patterns. He’s topless aside from his belt buckles, and has his uniform coat only worn from his waist down. While the outfit and the hair is new, the tattoos on his face and body are distinctly recognisable to the swordsman. He screams at the man angrily.

Zoro

DON’T TOUCH HIM, WYPER!

The warrior looks uphill from where he stood. His eyes widened in surprise at the sight of the familiar swordsman wielding three blades.

Wyper

You’re one of the Straw Hats.

Pirate Hunter Roronoa Zoro…?

Zoro takes a run towards them but stops when he’s met by two spears that cross in front of him, pointing at his neck. He throws them a murderous glare and raises his swords.

Zoro

Let me through. I won’t ask again.

Wyper waves his hand towards the men.

Wyper

Let him pass.

The warriors give way for Zoro but don’t lower their weapons around Law. The swordsman takes the opportunity to sheath his weapons while running to the blonde’s side. Sanji’s elbow falters and his body collapses as soon as he comes near.

Zoro knew the man would hate him for touching him again, but he catches Sanji in time just before his head hits the hard ground. His arms wrap around his torso and pulls him up. He notices that his arm has scorch marks from the blast where his gauntlets didn’t protect his skin.

Sanji

I can… get up… myself….

At that, Sanji pushes himself away from the swordsman and forces himself to stand. He grimaces and whimpers with a shaky breath during his attempt. Zoro hovered his hands around him as he stood with, ready to catch him should he fall.

After a few moments of heavy panting and wobbling, Sanji feels the fatigue of the day and the incident of last night finally catch up to him. His eyes roll at the back of his head as he faints.

Zoro cradles Sanji's upper body in his arms, supporting the blonde head against his chest as he lowers him so he’s knelt on the floor. He feels himself lose composure out of panic.

Zoro

Oi! Stay with me!

Traffy!

Without hesitation, Law teleports next to them while sheathing his sword and begins to check over the limp body. Wyper and the other warriors jolt in surprise and raise their weapons towards them but the two men simply ignore the threat in favour of checking over their friend.

Zoro

He feels cold….

Law

Low blood pressure… clammy skin…. He’s pushed himself into complete exhaustion. We’ve been walking for hours but I haven’t seen him take a bite to eat or drink. I’m not sure if he’s slept either.

Law rummages through his coat pocket and procures the first aid kit that Niji had given him weeks ago. He instructs Zoro to lay Sanji on the ground gently which the swordsman follows. The doctor begins to strip the blonde of his gauntlets and top to check and nurse his body out in the open.

Zoro glares angrily at Wyper.

Zoro

What the hell did you do that for?!

Wyper narrows his eyes at Zoro, then shifts his gaze at Sanji.

Wyper

We find one of our holy sites desecrated and destroyed. The next thing we know, the Pirate King of the North is in our territory. Coincidence?

Speechless, Zoro couldn’t do anything but bare his teeth and hover his figure over Sanji's body to protect him.

Wyper

Are you to blame? I admit, I wouldn't have taken the first move had I recognised you, Pirate Hunter… but please tell me that one of the saviours of Skypiea didn’t take part in laying waste to holy ground.

The swordsman opens his mouth to offer the full story but gets interrupted.

Sanji

It was… all me….

They all turn to look at the weak blonde who struggled to talk between harsh panting.

Zoro

H–hey… Curls, you don’t–

Sanji

I was… angry and felt… like tearing your island apart. It has… nothing… to do with these two. They… actually stopped me.

Wyper’s eye twitches in anger.

Zoro

NO! Wyper, yes, he did it, but it was an accident. We wouldn’t do anything to purposely harm your land, I swear.

The warrior growls at his statement, unsatisfied by the answer. He practically spits out his next words.

Wyper

That’s hard to believe, given the Pirate King’s reputation.

Law

We’re not here to cause trouble.

Please give us a moment. We don’t have much time.

Law tips Sanji on his side. He holds him steady with one hand on his shoulder while the other rests on his waist. He aligns his knee against the blonde’s back. Wyper and the rest of the warriors observe carefully.

Law

Zoro-ya, come here. Hold his knees and keep his arms together. Don’t let him move. Understood?

Sanji twitches nervously at the thought of being held down but he knows that he's too weak to fight back. He allows Zoro to position himself in front of him to follow Law’s instructions.

Law

Mr. Prince-ya, your spine is broken and I need to manually realign it as soon as possible, as instructed by your br– commander… to make sure that it doesn't cause any further damage. Do I have your consent?

Sanji

…Do it.

Law

It will hurt. A lot.

Sanji

Give me something to bite down on.

Law briefly releases him to roll the blonde’s stripped top and places it into his mouth to gag him. He then returns to grip onto his body again. Zoro looked on nervously but held onto Sanji securely.

Law

Ready?

Sanji shuts his eyes close and nods.

Zoro

Wait–

With a sudden jerk, Law knees Sanji’s back while pulling his shoulder and hip forcibly, resulting in a couple of loud cracks from his spine.

Sanji’s eyes snap wide open from the painful correction as his teeth bite down hard onto the cloth hard to stifle his own scream. His fists clench down hard then his hands twists, trying to pat Zoro’s which is holding his wrists securely. The swordsman picks up on what he wants and shifts his grip so they hold hand in hand. Sanji grasps onto him tightly with weeping eyes as the shock and the pain flow through him. When the sensation dies down, his eyes weaken and his jaw slacks open. His body fully relaxes and remains limp on the floor, panting deep heavy breaths.

Law

Shit. I’ve never done that to someone before without putting them to sleep. Sorry.

We'll need to do a thorough examination later, preferably somewhere not out in the open. For now, let me have a look at the rest of you.

The blonde weakly spits the gag off his mouth to protest.

Sanji

But…

Law

I've let your injuries linger on long enough, Mr. Prince-ya. I can no longer stand on the sidelines while you try to ignore their existence.

Let me do my job.

Law's tone of voice was firm but caring. Surprised at his concern, Sanji shuts his mouth and slowly rolls to lay with his back against the ground to accept his fate. He had a growing suspicion that the surgeon already knew the true events of last night. He knows that, especially now that his body is bare before him, Law’s skillful eyes would see his injuries and confirm any suspicion that the man has.

The doctor doesn’t say anything about the matter. Instead, he releases Sanji to wipe nervous sweat off his own forehead with his sleeve then quietly proceeds to nurse the burn marks on his arm. Sanji’s skin heals instantly from the gel that the doctor applies, much like the ripped tendons that Niji had repaired after the incident in Sabaody Archipelago. While he has him there, Law takes the opportunity to tend to the other cuts and bruises on his body with the same substance.

Wyper

What kind of a monster is he…?

Wyper and his men are taken aback, horrified at watching his skin recover rapidly.

Zoro

He’s just…like that. He’s not a monster.

Zoro kept his hold on Sanji, gently rubbing his knuckles with his thumb to sooth him. The blonde subconsciously hugs their entwined hands onto his own chest as he tries to steady his breathing.

When Law finishes, he wipes his hands clean with a cloth and turns his head to the looming warrior watching over them.

Law

My name is Trafalgar Law. I’m here with my companions to ask for your guidance.

Wyper raises a curious brow, intrigued at that. He secures his bazooka across his back and crosses his arms.

Wyper

Wyper of the God’s Guards. These are my men.

Zoro

God’s Guards?

Wyper

Yes. The White Berets name is no more.

What business do you have here?

Law

We’re looking for a man that may have travelled here a long time ago. He was a Marine that goes by the name of Corazon.

The warrior furrows his brow when he hears about the navy.

Law

Or his actual name… Donquixote Rosinante.

Wyper

Donquixote…? How long ago was this? We don’t get a lot of Marines up here. We try to stay away from them. They invite trouble.

Law

Maybe about thirty years ago…give or take.

Wyper closes his eyes briefly, trying to dig through his memories. After a pause, he waves his hand, signalling his men to drop their weapons. They follow his orders without question and put away their weapons.

Wyper

I would have been too young to pay proper attention at the time. The country was in shambles then so I'm not fully aware of other happenings around Skypiea.

Law sighs disappointingly and begins to apply bandages on Sanji for the deeper injuries.

Wyper

Will he be trouble?

He nods his head towards the semi conscious blonde on the ground.

Wyper

We can’t have him destroying more of our land. We like to keep our peace. If not for Roronoa Zoro’s involvement in saving our people and the country in the past, I’d have killed him by now.

Sanji

I’d like to see you try, coward.

Wyper narrows his eyes at him.

Zoro

Curls!

…Wyper, it won’t happen again. I’ll make sure of it.

Wyper

Very well…if you're certain.

There is one man I can think of who might be able to help you, given that he’s kept a close eye on our borders in the past.… If his memories don’t actually fail him this time, you’re welcome to try your luck.

Law

Oh?

The warrior looks at Zoro.

Wyper

You might have known him as the Sky Knight, Gan Fall.

—

Wyper and a handful of God's Guards escort the trio through Upper Yard to show them the way into their city. They take various small boat wavers here and there through cloud rivers of what used to be paths of the old priests’ Ordeals, repurposed and reshaped to speed up the process of travelling. However, without the proper wavers like the warrior and the guards have equipped, they are informed that the journey might take longer. Wyper had graciously offered to have a couple of his men carry their packs for them, allowing Zoro to more comfortably carry Sanji on his back while Law busies himself checking on the blonde's condition once in a while.

During their journey, Wyper confirms Zoro's theory that the citizens of Skypiea and the tribe of Shandia now live side by side in peace since the Straw Hat Pirates’ involvement during their country's turmoil. Shortly after the crew's departure years ago, Gan Fall had reclaimed his throne as God of Skypiea and chose to reside among the people for a change instead of living above them. He was chosen mainly because he was highly sought after by the citizens and even a large number of Shandians. Wyper had been appointed to be the leader of their combined police and militant force, serving faithfully and vigilantly under his rule.

Their joint venture had ensured safety and harmony over the shared land. One of the new allowances that they agreed upon was a subscription to the World Economy News Paper to ensure that they aren’t in the dark from worldly events. There's also the removal of the preposterous toll collection, which makes Skypiea now more open to friendly visitors to those who can reach it, as long as they keep their hands to themselves and not bring harm to the people and country.

One such event that welcomed rare tourists is their Festival of Lights, which is a fairly new holiday dedicated to honour the dead. It is held at night when everyone in the country sends paper lit lanterns to flow through their long connections of entwined cloud rivers which eventually join the White Sea. It’s said to be a spectacular occurrence to everyone on the island and below. Wyper explains that Zoro, Sanji and Law are all very fortunate to have come when they did as it’s happening that night.

When the warrior asks about his old crew, Zoro tells tales of his adventures with the Straw Hats after they left Skypiea, even mentioning the new people that they picked up along the way. He kept the story concise but not too overly detailed. Wyper was surprised to hear that the crew never reunited after they were forcefully split at Sabaody Archipelago, days before the death of Luffy’s brother. Regardless, he was glad to hear that they all survived and are happy living their separate ways at the very least.

Wyper

Training with the old Warlord had done you some good, Zoro. You look great.

Zoro

Uh… thanks.

Wyper

So… are you married or…?

Zoro

Err…

He feels Sanji’s arms that were wrapped around his shoulders tense up. The blonde’s hands grip onto his robe tightly, almost possessively, whilst keeping his head hidden against his back.

Zoro and Law see the gigantic snake, Nola, pop its head over the canopy of trees from a distance. It yawns sleepily, baring its large intimidating fangs, then proceeds to slither away for a nap. The warrior assures them that the creature is harmless and in fact is very friendly, as long as there's no immediate threat in the city.

Law eventually got into a conversation with Wyper about Corazon. The warrior had asked some questions about the doctor’s intentions in Skypiea and his plans afterwards. As they conversed, Zoro felt Sanji shift, trying to get to a more comfortable position before rubbing his nose on his shoulder and melting onto his back once again. Zoro whispers to him quietly.

Zoro

Awake, are we?

Sanji

…Couldn’t sleep with all the loud talking.

And your ridiculously over-musculared brick of a back.

Zoro

We’re nearly there.

Sanji

Mhmm…

Zoro

So…are we talking now?

Sanji

Don’t push your luck.

Zoro

Is it because of Wyper? You’re not jealous…are you?

Sanji

Shut up….

Zoro chuckles lightly under his breath. They quietly watch the opening of the valley leading into the city finally appear in the distance.

Zoro

Curls…

Sanji doesn’t reply. Instead, he tilts his head slightly towards him to show that he’s listening.

Zoro

Thanks for saving my ass there.

You didn’t have to. You know I could have taken it.

After a brief pause the blonde simply hums softly as a reply.

Zoro

I hesitate to ask but… did you… really mean what you said before that?

…When you said that we're through?

He receives no response, to which the swordsman sighs disappointingly. Then he feels Sanji stroke his shoulders and wrap his arms around him again, embracing him close. He speaks softly.

Sanji

I'm sorry… Zoro….

Zoro stares blankly at the path ahead, dreading what he’ll say next. He feels weak on the knees and his chest feels like it's being torn apart.

Sanji

It's for the best.

—

As they approach the entrance into the valley that leads into the city, Wyper suddenly stops on his tracks.

Wyper

I apologise…but I can’t let the Pirate King inside. Not freely….

Zoro

What…?

His grip tightens around Sanji's legs, feeling uncertain about moving forward. The blonde weakly looks up, popping his head up from behind his back. Law tries to look impassive to hide his true feelings about the situation.

Wyper

Look…

The warrior uncomfortably rubs the back of his neck as he turns his gaze to Zoro.

Wyper

One of my scouts had just confirmed that he’s the one who damaged the sacred site…. Gan Fall had told me off from reacting too brashly in the past, so we didn’t do anything then. But now….

Zoro, since you’re a friend to Skypiea, I’m not going to call the Marines on him for you, and I’ll give the order to make sure that it stays that way. But all the citizens of the island and a few tourists are here for the festival…and I have to prioritise the safety of our people first. We can’t have the Pirate King of the North wandering around freely, especially after destroying one of our sacred grounds–accident or not. Everyone’s read the papers about the Celestial Dragon. They’ll freak out.

Zoro glared at the man, increasingly becoming more murderous-like as he talked.

Unable to withstand eye contact with the Warlord’s intimidating death stare, the warrior turns his attention to Sanji.

Wyper

I’m sorry. You don’t seem like a bad guy in real life. Having met you…I’m inclined to believe what Zoro said about it being an accident and–

Sanji

It’s okay! It’s…okay, really. Your people come first. You’re doing well by them. You seem like a good leader.

The blonde gives him a warm assuring smile to tell him that there's no harm done. Wyper stares at him dumbfoundedly then quickly averts his gaze to the side, blushing. Seemingly charmed out of the blue, he sighs and adds.

Wyper

This is unconventional, and I may get in trouble for it… but I can give you a choice.

You can walk around freely within the city but you have to be cuffed…

…Or you can stay out here. Zoro and your surgeon friend may come and go as they please but you’re more than welcome to camp near the gates or anywhere along the valley.

Zoro, Sanji and Law stare at him undecidedly with the swordsman still looking extremely unhappy even with the choices that they have.

Law

Excuse us…

Law pulls Zoro to the side with Sanji still on the swordsman's back, away from Wyper and his men's earshots. They begin whispering among each other in rushed but hushed tones.

Zoro

This is fuckin’ ridiculous. We’ve come all this way–

Law

I know, but…you realise that he’s really sticking his neck out for us, Zoro-ya.

The swordsman growls from the back of his throat in frustration.

Law

It’s…not easy for me to say this…but–

Sanji

Let me stop you right there, Traffy.

Marimo, please put me down.

They both turn their gaze towards the blonde.

Zoro

Will you be alright? Can you walk?

Sanji

Thanks to you carrying me, I was able to rest a little…. I appreciate it.

The swordsman gently sets Sanji down to stand on his feet.

Sanji

Thank you, Marimo.

Traffy, let me spare you from having to say it yourself. This is all my fault anyway….

Law

Don’t say that…. It’s not.

But this whole situation is complicated. It’s really not ideal… but we may not have a choice.

Zoro

What? What are you two talking about?

Sanji

I’m taking the cuffs.

Law shuts his eyes tight when the words leave his mouth, feeling extremely anxious about the whole ordeal. He pinches the gap between his brows as he remembers the massacre incident when he first met the blonde–the whole townsquare of some distant island had been covered in blood and dismembered parts of Marines who had last tried to subdue and detain the Pirate King forcefully.

Zoro

But…you hate being restrained. Have you two lost your minds? Remember what happened last time? I don’t even think you were even the same person back then, Curls.

Law

You don’t think that I don’t already know that? Idiot.

With gritted teeth, Zoro grabs him by the collar of his shirt and pulls him face to face.

Zoro

What did you call me?!

Law returns the gesture and grabs Zoro’s by the lining of his open robe, angrily pulling him closer so they’re nose to nose.

Law

I said you’re an idiot! Moron.

Zoro

Who are you calling moron–?!

Sanji

You two, stop that!

Sanji puts himself between them then pushes them apart by their faces. The three of them begin to physically shove and yank each other among themselves immaturely, making them look like squabbling children in a playground. Awkward sweatdrops fall down the side of Wyper and his men’s brows as they watch the scene from afar, unable to hear their conversation.

When the three of them have calmed down, Zoro questions the decision further.

Zoro

Why can't you stay out here? You're free to do whatever the hell you want.

Sanji

Because… because it's out in the open.

Law

It's much safer inside. The three of us need to stay together, especially after–

Law stops himself as he realises that he may have said too much already. He looks to the blonde to continue on but is interrupted by the enraged swordsman.

Zoro

So the fucker did come!

Sanji shuts his eyes tight, pained at the confirmation that both Law and Zoro had known the true events from last night.

Zoro

The fucker came and broke you!!

Curls…

His voice softens when he sees the trembling blonde hug his own arm, trying to look small.

Sanji

I… just don't want to be out here, okay? Let's just leave it at that….

I'll take the cuffs and…deal with it this way.

Zoro runs a hand over his exasperated face, not wanting the blonde to go through another kind of torment almost straight away. This whole journey has been cursed to bring Sanji harm wherever they go, and it seems like it's not done doing so.

There's a heavy air between them. Hesitantly, Zoro breaks the silence.

Zoro

You realise what you're asking, right? What we're about to put you through.

Sanji looks up meekly from his small form.

Sanji

I know…but it’s still better than… risking it out here.

You should also know….

His body feels weaker and lightheaded just from the thought of it.

Sanji

Restraints…change something in me. I…

Sanji averts his gaze, unsure how to properly word things.

Sanji

I just…hate the stuff. Either I give into it or…I fight it. Both to the extreme…. I’m not in full control of myself.

His body involuntarily starts shaking as thoughts flood through his mind. He remembers the time he’d been locked away to be forgotten behind iron bars as a child wearing that iron mask that his father had forced on him, all the times that the Marines have arrested and assaulted him, the unmentionable things that he'd either been forced to do and even agreed on doing with Doflamingo over the years, and, worst of all, when his god forsaken “owner” had bought him to–

He feels a warm hand on his shoulder that brings his sensations back to reality. He only just realised how much he'd been trembling when Zoro had somehow brought him out of the trance.

Zoro

Curls…you don’t have to explain yourself.

Zoro releases him, not wanting a repeat of the last incident.

Sanji

Th…thank you.

Zoro

Just tell us what you need.

Sanji's heart melts at that statement. He looks between Zoro and Law, touched by their willingness to help. He smiles broadly at them.

Sanji

Okay….

The swordsman returns his smile with his own, feeling relieved that the blonde is finally reaching out.

Sanji

Zoro…

Slowly, Sanji approaches Zoro with a darkened expression on his face. Zoro gulps from the anticipation, unsure on what may come next. The blonde reaches out and grips both of his shoulders, pinning him in place. Their gazes lock together.

Sanji

I need you to help me do it… no one else can.

—

Zoro

Ready? Let’s try it again….

Sanji stood away from him, glowering at the large metal handcuffs in Zoro's hand. It had been given by Wyper who agreed to the terms of their approach for the safety of his own men. They're all gathered on the side of the city’s entrance, watching the swordsman and the blonde attentively.

With a heavy heart, Sanji nods.

Zoro

Good….

But I'll need you to come here. So you remember that you're in control.

Sanji looks at him with a fearful look in his eyes.

Zoro

It's not too late to change your mind. We can…try and find a way for you to stay out here safely.

The blonde looks down at the cuffs again and begins his brave approach, not taking his eyes off the wretched things.

Sanji

No, no. We… I… have to do this.

Sanji closes in and holds his wrists out. When Zoro shifts his hands ever so slightly, the cuffs’ links clink together, sending a cold shiver to run through his body, making his hair stand on end. He quickly backs off and turns away from it. He makes several unrecognisable noises from his mouth, freaking out about the situation. After shaking it off, he repeatedly slaps and squeezes his face between the palm of his hands.

Sanji

Okay, okay… I can do this. I can do this.

He tries to motivate himself by repeating the mantra, jumping on the spot, shaking his hands then taking a deep breath. After the small warm-up, he resumes his position in front of the swordsman.

Zoro

Do you…want me to do it quickly? Just to get it out of the way?

Sanji stills at that and thinks carefully.

Sanji

No…. Just… let me do it slowly so I don't get the shock of it. Otherwise I might get jumpy and overreact.

Zoro

Alright.

He holds as still as he can. The blonde raises his hands and tries to ease one of his wrists into the open cuff.

After briefly slipping a shaky hand through, Sanji yanks himself away with a yelp as his body squirms on the spot involuntarily. When he realises that another attempt has failed, he stomps to a nearby tree and begins slamming his forehead against its trunk in defeat.

Wyper groans impatiently while most of his men are snickering among themselves, on the verge of laughing out loud.

Wyper

Settle down, you lot. It’s not a laughing matter.

Sanji spins towards them and straightens up. He shoots the warriors a murderous glare, his face flushed red in anger.

Sanji

Laugh and I will peel your skin off while you sleep, but not before I scoop your eyes out and feed it to your children!

Zoro

WOAH! Woah, woah, woah–

Zoro hides the cuffs behind his back and pulls Sanji to the side to separate him. God's Guards each had a mix of angry, shocked and fearful faces from the threat. Law stayed by them with his hands crossed, trying to put out fires.

Law

He…doesn't mean that.

Sanji

Yes, I fuckin' do!

Sanji is yelling from afar as Zoro tries to pull him away, giving them some distance.

Law

N–no…he doesn't.

Sanji

And I'm going to call your mothers!!

Law

…Please don't listen to him.

Sanji

Then I’m going to chop off and send her your small as fuck di–

Zoro

Alright, alright! They got it–they’re in trouble.

Wyper, do you mind if we have some privacy?

Wyper disapprovingly shakes his head but turns his back to them and waves them off.

Wyper

Five minutes. Or I'm coming down there to do it myself for threatening my men.

Zoro tuts in annoyance.

Law

Would displacing it help, Mr. Prince-ya?

Before Sanji could reply, the warrior interrupts.

Wyper

No, you won't be able to. It's mixed in with Seastones.

Law

…Because of course it is.

Zoro pulls the blonde behind a thick tree, out of everyone else’s sight. The other man grumbles a line of curses under his breath.

Zoro

Great… now we have a time limit.

Curls, we can't aggravate them anymore than we already have.

Sanji

Marimo, they're laughing at me. It's not… easy… for me, okay?

Zoro sighs but nods in understanding. They both stand still, unsure of the next move. Sanji continues to glare in the direction where the swordsman had hidden the cuffs behind his back.

Zoro

Why me?

Sanji looks up to him, blinking in confusion.

Sanji

Why what?

Zoro

Why do I have to help you do it?

Why can't Law, or Wyper, or any one else like the guards do it? I don't want to…

Sanji

Gods, you're such an idiot.

The swordsman raises an unimpressed brow at him.

Sanji

You make me feel safe, okay?

Zoro's expression softens at that.

Sanji

I know we've spent years fighting before…. I know it's ridiculous, but out of all people right now, I know you won't… hurt me.

Silence falls between them. After a while, Zoro speaks softly.

Zoro

Let me take the lead then.

Sanji blinks up at him then looks away in uncertainty.

Sanji

I… I don't know….

Zoro

No matter how we approach this, it's not going to be good. We've tried your way ten times already. Won't you let me try?

The swordsman reaches behind his back and procures the cuffs. He raises the chains between them, allowing the blonde to see it. Sanji's eye twitches, suddenly feeling overly stressed again.

Zoro

I promise I won't make sudden movements. We can stop whenever you want.

It's just a piece of metal. I want you to feel it.

Sanji briefly looks up at him then takes a reluctant step forward.

Zoro

Don't look at the locks, just the chains for now.

It's just metal, like the armour on your glove, and the walls around the Polar Tang. Familiar, right?

The blonde frowns but zones in his sight on the links directly on Zoro's hand. He reaches out and takes a deep breath. Slowly, he lays his fingers on the cold surface. The hair on his neck stands on end and his body trembles but he holds his ground under Zoro's watch. Every ounce of his instincts tells him to throw the cursed thing away.

Zoro

Now…eyes on me.

Sanji gazes upwards to meet the swordsman who had somehow gotten intimately close at some point. His attention suddenly focused on his lips. The adrenaline pumping through his system encourages him to draw himself closer.

Zoro releases his hold from one of the chain links, careful not to make too much noise by gently lowering the other end down. He offers his now free hand to Sanji.

Zoro

I won’t hurt you.

Sanji glances down. Tentatively, he pulls his hand from the chain then reaches out and lays his other one on the swordsman's palm lightly.

Zoro

I won’t let anyone hurt you.

Touched by the sentiment, Sanji leans his forehead against Zoro’s own and entwines their fingers together.

A vision of Doflamingo's assault suddenly flashes before him and the swordsman's hand suddenly transforms into the other Warlord's large one gripping onto him. Sanji shuts his eyes tight, trying to fight the memories out of his head.

Zoro gives him time, knowing full well that the blonde is battling through nightmares in his mind. He hears Sanji’s shaky voice, whispering softly.

Sanji

I don't want to do this anymore, Doffy….

Zoro flinches slightly at Sanji calling him by the other man's name. He feels his blood boil towards the other Warlord but he suppresses his anger to keep his composure. The last thing the blonde needs is him losing his temper. Unsure as to what to do next, he hides away the cuffs behind his back. He tilts his head to look at Sanji's face.

When the swordsman sees his eyes, they look colourless, distant and blank like he'd succumbed back into the mindless state just as he did earlier that day.

Zoro

Hey, it's me.

He receives no response. Instead, Sanji tips forward onto his chest and feels his hand clench hard on his.

Zoro

H–hey, it's me, Curls. It's just you and me.

Sanji

It really hurts….

Zoro's patience betrays him, not able to withstand seeing the blonde in this state. He felt helpless on what to do next. He wanted to take the pain away from Sanji however he can but he’s uncertain how to bring him back this time. He wraps his free hand around his blonde head, tangling his fingers into his hair, then leans over to kiss his forehead, keeping himself there as he holds the other man steady.

They stay like this for a moment. The swordsman knows that they’re coming close to the five minute limit that Wyper had given them but he's already decided that he doesn’t care about that anymore. They’ll be here for as long as they need until Sanji says so, and he hopes that Law would understand. He’ll make sure to give the blonde all the time in the world to help him heal, especially in the long run. He won't force him into anything he's uncomfortable doing, even if that means leaving Skypiea for their own safety.

Surprisingly, nobody came to bother them after the five minute mark. Curious, Zoro pokes his head around the tree trunk. He sees Law making a show to the God’s Guards with one of his abilities where he separates body parts and spins them around the air. The warriors thought it entertaining and had gathered around him to either take turns or mock each other for having their body parts jumbled up and assembled in the wrong way. Wyper stood by them, bewildered and distracted. He looks like he’s too concerned and powerless to do anything about it as his men wanted audience participation in the show. The swordsman smiles at the doctor’s cleverness and his foresight. He’d known exactly what they needed–time and patience. It seems like he’s trying to do his part for Sanji just as much as he is. He wonders if he can convince the doctor to either postpone their journey or, as much as it pains him to consider, leave him to continue on his own.

Sanji

Zoro…

The swordsman jumps in surprise and looks down in his arms.

Zoro

I'm here. I'm here.

As if he's just woken up, Sanji blinks and gazes up at him. A hint of blue returns to his own eyes, bringing relief to the swordsman who couldn't help but smile at the sight.

Sanji rubs his eyes and pulls away, sliding a hand from Zoro's shoulder down to his forearm to support himself.

Zoro

How… how are you doing?

The blonde runs his fingers through his head to fix his disheveled hair and smiles softly at him. Whatever battles he went through in his mind, it looks like he's come through.

Sanji

Could be better…. I'm starving.

Zoro sighs in relief, finally relaxing at the man's livelier state.

Zoro

We got a lot of food, thanks to you. We can eat whenever you want.

Sanji

In a moment.

But first…

Sanji tiptoes and gives Zoro a surprise kiss on his cheek, causing the swordsman to freeze and take a sharp breath in.

Sanji

Thank you.

He looks up at him with that sweet genuine smile that Zoro had always been drawn into. Caught off guard and unsure as to what to do next, the swordsman simply stares at him, his face reddens slightly.

Sanji

The cuffs?

Zoro

Uh…it's with me.

Curls, we really don't have to do this. We can just leave Skypiea and–

Sanji

No, no we can't. It's very important to me that we see this through.

Zoro huffs disappointingly but given that he told himself that he'll do what the other man is comfortable doing, he goes along.

Sanji

Hold them out for me.

Zoro

Are you sure…?

Sanji

Do it now. Before I change my mind.

Zoro does as he says. He brings them out and holds both open cuffs in his hands, presenting them to him.

Sanji claps his hands then rubs them together. He takes a deep breath and in one quick motion, places his hands into the open locks.

Zoro waits to see if he pulls away again.

Sanji

Oh, for the love of–

Close it, close it, close it!

The swordsman jumps at the sudden insistence and locks Sanji's wrists into place then pulls his hands away. The blonde's arms dip briefly at the heavy weight but he pulls them up after a short adjustment.

Silence fell between them as they both stared at Sanji's bound hands. Zoro tries to make himself look impassive but he can't help but feel infuriated at the fact that it had to come to this.

Sanji slowly raises both his wrists to take a proper view of them, looking at the chains emotionless. Then his face scowls as a shiver runs through his spine. His body involuntarily writhes so he takes long but quick strides to walk it off before circling back the swordsman, making unintelligible noises along the way.

Sanji

Marimo!

Zoro

Y–yes?

Sanji

This sucks!

Zoro

Y–yeah….

Sanji glares down at the chain between his hands. He takes a deep breath and begins to light up a cigarette. The length of the cuffs allows him to reach into his pockets at the very least.

Sanji

I’m going to need a dozen more packs of these just to get me through.

It’s going to be a long fuckin’ day.

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