#dracule mihawk analysis

[ashenburst]

A Not So Brief Analysis Of Dracule Mihawk

Wondering if Mihawk's distrust of others correlates with the fact he is basically a one-man crew. Wondering just how self-reliable he must've become in order to be self-sufficient. Wondering what is the cause behind it all.

I wonder if, similarly, he has trouble being vulnerable around others. There is an undeniably stoic attribute to his character, but there is a common pitfall practitioners of stoicism (or those who lean towards it) are susceptible to: emotional disregard under the guise of control of emotions, or even worse, reprimanding empathy.

Therefore, could it be the case Mihawk is emotionally detached? It would be easy to draw such a conclusion with what little we’ve been shown of him. While an individualist, he accepts those who come to/at him (Zoro and Perona), and he reaches out to others (Shanks); it might be true that he’d lost interest in Shanks after his injury, but he still committed the sweet act of showing him Luffy’s bounty and apologizing to him upon testing Luffy. There’s also the moment where he tells Perona to take care, upon her departure. So, while aloof, Mihawk is not reserved to the point of stoic cold. He wouldn’t sacrifice company in order to be alone (even if in the case of his pact with Crocodile, there was an utilitarian aspect to the choice; in keeping Perona and Zoro, and in visiting Shanks, there was none other than being nice). One could attribute these acts to an emotional attachment because it does take a drive to complete these very active feats. For Shanks, it could be respect, too. I don’t believe the detached attitude Mihawk possesses would let him take care of those two for two years, especially since he values peace so much; something had to override this desire for peace. I say, the reason could be empathetic in its roots.

Perhaps his self-reliance is misread as distrust? To distrust someone would imply that one is uncertain of their motivations/actions. Mihawk, as someone with Observation Haki, someone who views his enemies with curiosity, who allies himself with whoever is willing to offer him the most peaceful residence… would he be so distrusting? In the little glimpses of his internal monologue we get, there is no distrust and no hesitation. In general, he is confident in his judgement.

But on a more personal level, does he fear his more delicate feelings would be betrayed, if shown too much? There is a possibility for that. We haven’t seen him in such state, as he does rely on himself only. Perhaps Crocodile knows of it. On the flipside, this would imply that Mihawk has a deep, unburied emotional core, one he nurtures and protects – and perhaps one that was taken advantage of. Observation Haki can’t save him from heartbreak, can it? It can sense the emotions of others. It can’t predict his own.

In either case, there very likely is a softer core to the world’s strongest swordsman. Establishing that he isn’t emotionally exempt, but knowing that there’s still a strong individualist quality to him, I wish to look at more of Mihawk’s internal processing.

For an arguably isolated character, he isn't close-minded at all. He possesses curiosity towards his foes; he asks, and he indulges, and he encourages. Think of the entirety of his fight with Zoro.

Then, later on, he is more than anything amused at Zoro’s request. But he obliges. Have the rare panel where he laughs.

When he assesses the strengths of his opponents, he doesn’t do so with any negativity in his mind. Oddly, he goes great lengths to assess them (thinking of his encounter with Luffy). Imagine, it was worth disturbing his peace! Linked here are several reasons why he might’ve done so.

One thing all of these cases have in common is ease. One could argue that it stems from absolute confidence that he is unbeatable, therefore he acts out of boredom, but then again… he trains Zoro because he recognizes valiant traits in him, not because he has nothing better to do. While, yes, there might be some boredom in his life...

Could boredom be Mihawk’s internal motivator? Can we classify his actions as so random/pointless that they serve a sort of entertainment to his otherwise dull living? Personally, I don’t gravitate towards that take. He actively works to preserve his ‘boring’ way of life. For a man so unimpressed, he isn’t trying to change himself at all – nor his routine, not much – in order to appease any need for excitement. The only time he expresses he feels excitement is when trouble heads his way. He does not seek it. Therefore, I presume he is content with the way things are. Quiet.

How does one pinpoint and rationalize these very complex stances? It could be summarized as the opposite of what Mihawk told Zoro.

Could it be that the world’s strongest swordsman became one for he hasn’t developed himself merely in swordsmanship, but in wisdom of living as well? For his domain extends beyond the puddle. There’s an excellent post on Reddit that details the reference this entire phrase comes from, related to Zen.

In addition, I like that during training, Mihawk hasn’t pushed any ideologies or mantras on Zoro, beyond that of basic swordsmanship honor and shame. As far as we know, of course, but I argue such a lesson would be explicitly stated due to its importance. Anyway, these two do not have that moment. Mihawk gets closest to it with his ‘frog’ comment.

It could be assumed that, in not pushing any creed on Zoro (but that to expand his views), Mihawk is leaving room for Zoro to know himself beyond swordsmanship, while also respecting his dream.

Taking into account this ideological emptiness, the ‘frog’ comment, and Mihawk’s general disposition: confidence, ease, peace, I argue that they all stem from the fact Mihawk has found his place in life and has achieved his dream, doing it his way. Now, his current goal of sorts is to be outbested in terms of swordsmanship, a goal he is willing to help Zoro with.

And there is such honor and beauty to it! To sacrifice the goal of his life to help another person achieve theirs. Just how much at peace with themself would one have to be, to be able to give away so much of themself? It's mindblowing. Being able to dynamically balance so many internal and external factors (achieving a dream certainly isn't enough to teach or in any way emulate that; it takes vast wisdom to do so) to finally reach that stage of contentment: to let another have it, at the cost of your own, on a basis entirely factual and wholly fulfilling. It's once again reminiscent of stoicism, and its postulate that a life well-lived is one lived in accordance to nature. One lived in moderation. Now, Mihawk doesn't seem to be very emotionally expressive, does he?

In the aggressive tug-of-war that is the One Piece world, he remains steady, firm on his feet. He knows where he stands, and he’s where he wants to be.

Deeply in tune with himself like that, it could be interpreted that Mihawk has reached a state akin to ataraxia (Greek, meaning freedom of trouble or anxiety; tranquility of mind dependent on the mind), a viable path to one’s happiness as regarded in stoicism. Related, I find it very enjoyable that he is a character who has achieved his dream. Because one must ask: what comes after the dream is achieved? For Mihawk, there is simple contentment. Nothing ‘great’ after he’s reached his grand dream. Farming, napping, cooking, drinking wine, reading? How humble! Not much to indulge in, but he is fulfilled.

And so, his trail continues, he is aware of that, but he doesn’t chase happiness down it. And even if it gets rough and he has to deviate a little, he is on the right path. He knows it, and feels it. That's all that matters.

As Seneca said, “It is not that virtue is chosen because it pleases, but that, if chosen, it also pleases.” Mihawk delved into the wisdom of living, then chose his spot back in his own puddle, still occasionally gazing beyond it.

How exactly did Mihawk come to this mindset? Now that is mental work I reckon he deserves rest from.

#I am not too confident because I’ve known him for little over a week now #I’m also under the influence of alcohol a tad #so excuse my possibly wrong takes #I simply needed to yell about this man… #if I get him right #and if I get Shanks right one day #maybe I’ll write mishanks someday HAHA #dracule mihawk #mihawk #one piece #op #one piece live action #opla #zoro #dracule mihawk analysis #mihawk analysis

[dykealloy]

i keep going back to this moment. obviously there's the palpable devotion from zoro towards luffy which is all very insane, elicits the urge to chew through drywall etc etc. but I can't help but get caught on the way this is phrased. suggesting maybe zoro isn't the only one mihawk is talking about here. as in, I'm getting opla shuggy rant energy, i.e.

which is about as blatant and transparent as it gets in terms of the older wiser figure with a connection to shanks speaking about his own experiences (under the weak veil of this being about Luffy). but back to mihawk talking about zoro whilst also talking about himself. I'm having to extrapolate a fair bit here given my limited knowledge of his history, but here's what we do know - mihawk never belonged to a crew, was a "rival" of shanks before he "lost interest" in killing him at some point after he lost his arm ("it's always for the sake of another" - given how powerful shanks still is at this point - one of the four emperors - i'd like to think there's something more to this).

when zoro falls to his blade outside the Baratie and he tells luffy "that's a more treacherous path than even mine" after hearing his main goal is to become king of the pirates, do you think perhaps there's a chance he's projecting some old buried anxiety/fear from his youth about the thought of facing shanks, standing by his side and falling. It's giving "I am not worthy until I prove I'm the best", which if true, was followed after many years by "Now I am the best and it's hollow and empty and I regret all those days I could have had with you".

luffy gave zoro direction - a greater purpose and a family. luffy enables his aspirations, but he also provides zoro the freedom to have something more than just this obsessive structure where the only thing that matters is becoming top dog - something beyond years and years of endless relentless training fueled in part by his loyalty to kuina but also the grief of her loss. without luffy, zoro could very likely have followed mihawk's path, something @joyish-little-boy pointed out in one of @assiraphales' posts.

despite being recognised by the world at large as the greatest swordsman alive, and supposedly having achieved all there is for him to strive for, mihawk has never struck me as a man awfully satisfied with where he is.

#mihawk looking zoro straight in the eyes: i know how to manipulate you. fellow fag. #buggy getting distracting midway through his villain monologue and wistfully staring into space: i hate him. i miss him. #mishanks #shuggy #zolu #anyway. do you think zoro telling mihawk that 'the only thing luffy's afraid of is being alone' resonated with mihawk. #do you think it fucked him up? #i think maybe so. #one piece #op #opla #CJ's op watch-through #dracule mihawk #red haired shanks #buggy the clown #zoro #op meta #op analysis

[midnight-in-town]

Finally caught up with One Piece

Because I have many many thoughts, here are some theories the latest parts of the story made me think of ! Please note that I totally need to reread a few things in order to be certain of what I’m hypothesizing about here.

Also, sorry if people already mentioned these possibilities, I really just caught up (and i need to empty my mind or i won’t be able to sleep). :))

1) The Five Elders realized the truth about Luffy’s devil fruit during Wano, because Shanks tipped them off.

Tbh it bothered me that the WG suddenly realized during the battle against Kaido that Luffy had the Nika fruit, precisely as it awakened. 

However, during the Reverie arc (which takes place at the same time as Wano), Shanks requested a meeting with the Five Elders, to speak about “a certain pirate” though the rest is currently unknown. Additionally, thanks to Jinbe fighting Who’s Who, we found out that Shanks stole that fruit from a government ship, so it’s likely that Shanks knew exactly what kind of devil fruit it was when he stole it.

As for why Shanks told the WG the truth about Luffy... maybe to stall him from getting to the One Piece? or for some other grand scheme we likely can’t figure out for now. :))

2) Seraphims were made after people who are of different races persecuted by the World Government

On Egghead, we discovered Seraphims & Pacifistas made after Kuma (whom Bonney said at the beginning of the arc was “from a different race”) and Jinbe (who’s a Fishman). Also we learnt that their “green blood” is actually Lunarian blood (gotten from King/Alber, who was experimented on at Punk Hazard and later saved by Kaido). 

This could mean that the Seraphims are made after Hancock (who was sold into slavery as a child, with her sisters, with the mark of the Celestial Dragons on their back forever showing that “they are less than humans”) and Mihawk (history completely unknown but there’s that line from Zoro “you’re a little more human than him”, when fighting against the Mihawk Seraphim) because these two are also of different races? 

3) King Im/Imu has been alive ever since the Void Century because someone who once ate the Op Op fruit during this era gave him immortality.

Very clearly, the latest chapters revealed that Im/Imu knew Nefertari D. Lili who lived during the Void Century, so they gotta be immortal at this point.

Additionally Doflamingo blackmailed the WG, because he had leverage over them, which is how he became a Warlord and Dressrosa’s king.

We never really had a confirmation as to what it was, but I’m guessing that’s because he found out about Im/Imu and also about that special property of the Op Op fruit, which is why he was seeking it with so much intensity and was so furious when Cora gave it to Law.

4) Maybe Dragon left Luffy with Garp as a baby, because Luffy’s mom is from a different race as well, so he thought Luffy would be safer with Garp, who was the hero of the navy and already hiding Roger’s son, Ace?

I know this one might seem completely random at this point, but hear me out : 

In Vegapunk’s flashback about Ohara, Dragon was said “to hate war”, was already a “freedom fighter” and was apparently not yet affiliated with either Kuma or Iva and that was before Luffy’s birth. 

It’s too early to tell since Bonney isn’t done checking Kuma’s memories, but imo Kuma probably agreed to become a pawn of the WG in order to save his kid, Bonney, from living through the same horrors he lived through as a kid. 

But before that, Kuma started the revolutionaries with Dragon soon after the Ohara genocide, so I could see a similar motivation fueling both men back then (i.e dads wanting to fight for worldwide freedom but also to protect their kid from the WG).

Also considering the newly found Cross Guild putting bounties on navy and government men (a brilliant idea btw), it’s interesting it’s made of 

Buggy who used to be a part of Roger’s crew, a man who was one of the biggest thorns in the WG’s back, 

Mihawk whose past is unknown, but who, according to Croc, is highly distrustful of others & maybe of a different race (see previous point) 

Crocodile : past unknown, but highly distrustful of others as well, wanted Pluton to fight against the WG, and mostly has a connection to Ivankov, who founded the revolutionaries with Dragon & Kuma and who knows Croc’s “secret”, implying Iva probably used their powers on Croc at some point (absolute fan of the Crocomom theory btw)

All I’m saying is that two of the Cross Guild founders might be not be estranged to the whole “previously being persecuted because of their origins by the WG”, especially considering that Crocodile is the one who sought Mihawk for this partnership in the first place (and Buggy is included for the symbolic of the threat Roger used to represent, on top of wanting to compete against Shanks for the One Piece). 

5) The last road poneglyph is held by “the man with the burn scar” aka Jaguar D. Saul.

When Wano ended, Shanks said to his crew that they were going to go after the One Piece and the next time we met them, with Kid in hot pursuit, they were on Elbaf. In other words, I think it’s fair to say that the man with the burn scar is/was on Elbaf.

Coincidentally on Egghead, we found out that Jaguar D. Saul survived being frozen by Kuzan during the Ohara genocide and worked with Elbaf Giants to salvage what he could of Ohara’s library. So I think it’s likely that at some point he found out where that last road poneglyph was and possibly acquired it. 

in that case, yay, because an encounter with Robin will prove to be both very emotional and immensely fruitful. :D 

Can’t wait to see where the story is going hehehe!! ^3^

#one piece #monkey d. luffy #monkey d. dragon #bartholomew kuma #jewelry bonney #red haired shanks #dracule mihawk #sir crocodile #jaguar d. saul #nika #op theory #my analysis #boa hancock #emporio ivankov #buggy the clown #vegapunk #trafalgar d. water law #donquixote doflamingo #world government #as of: #op1085 #egghead

[fakescorpion]

We need to talk about Crocodile and Mihawk’s relationship, and how notably odd it is.

Considering both of them are very smart men, they must know beforehand the moment their names appear together in the same organization, they are essentially declaring to the World Government that they are creating another emperor crew.

Now here’s the strange part.

Crocodile—being extremely intelligent—must know that in an ideal universe where Buggy did not fuck shit up and that Crocodile and Mihawk are rightfully recognized as the true leaders of Cross Guild, World Government would look at these two names side-by-side and come to the conclusion that Mihawk should be named the emperor, seen as there is a significant gap between their issued bounties. That can only mean when Crocodile made that phone call, he already had the intention of making Mihawk the king, right? Another evidence is that Crocodile even named their organization Cross Guild, after Mihawk and his cross motif.

On the other hand, Mihawk does not want to be an emperor. Mihawk makes this very clear and his opinion on this matter has never changed. That can only mean when Mihawk accepted Crocodile’s offer, he already had the intention of becoming Crocodile’s right-hand commander, right? True to this assumption, it is mostly Crocodile making the decisions in the few panels we see of their interaction with Mihawk following his lead, from recruiting Buggy and co, to how Buggy’s friends all stating that they will follow Crocodile (not Mihawk).

Buggy lucking himself into his current position does not change the fact that before Buggy was even in the picture, Crocodile and Mihawk—both of whom exude extreme I-am-king-and-serve-no-one vibes—considered each other and simultaneously decided that they want the other man to lead.

So why?

These two must have history.

#cross guild #dracule mihawk #sir crocodile #one piece character analysis #dracule mihawk x sir crocodile #sir crocodile x dracule mihawk #mihawk #crocodile #one piece #one piece 1058 #one piece 1058 spoilers #i neeeeed to know their history pleeease #i am willing to wait 100 chapters for their story just give it to me D;

[mathematurgist]

How close is each Warlord to becoming an Emperor?

This is a follow-up post to my question "What makes an Emperor an Emperor?"

Now that we understand the qualities that many of the Emperor's share, this then begs the question: "Which of the original 7 Warlords was closest to being an Emperor?" You could imagine the scenario where the Four Emperors and their crews, the World Government, and the Marines all vanish. In this great vacuum, which of the Warlords would rise to the position?

I will list them least Emperor like, to most Emperor like. The scores are relative to the current Emperor's and not relative to eachother.

Bartholmew Kuma - 10/60

Personal Power - 6/10 - He has powerful devil fruit and cybernetic enhancements, but it is not clear if he has any skill in Haki. Commanders & Lieutenants & Army & Allies - 0/40 - Kuma is very low on the list as he does not have a crew and has no subordinate crews beneath him. He has forsaken his allies in both the world government and the revolutionary army. Territory - 4/10 - He is the former King of the Sorbet Kingdom, but we do not know how strong a hold he has over his kingdom, nor how important it is.

Jimbe - 20/60

Our favourite fishman is unfortunately not Emperor material. Personal Power - 7/10 Commanders - 2/10 - Aladine was able to match Charlotte Oven in terms of strength, but that is the only commander of the Sun pirates that we see (under Jimbe). Lieutenants - 0/10 - There does not appear to be any major structure within the current Sun pirates. Army - 3/10 - The size of the Sun pirates appear to be a relatively small crew, however they are all fishmen, which makes them relatively strong. As far as I am aware, Jimbe cannot command citizens of Fishman island to fight on his behalf. Hence, why this score is relatively low. Allies - 6/10 - Despite this, the Sun pirates are allied with the Arlong pirates as a subordinate crew. However, Jimbe's control over Arlong is far less than others. He is also allied to the Whitebard remnants and the Strawhat Pirates, and for a time, the big mom pirates. Territory - 2/10 - Unlike many of the other Warlords, Jimbe does not command or control any physical territory. Rather they are heavily allied with (and based on) Fishman Island, which is a significant island on the Grand Line, which makes this score non-zero.

Gecko Moria - 22/60

Moria may be an unpopular Warlord, but is very strong in certain regards.

Personal Power - 1/10 - He is the only Warlord to lose his position based on a lack of strength. During his prime, he matched blades with Kaido and possesses one of the top 3 strongest paramecia devil fruits (in my opinion). However, years of lethargy has dulled his skills. (Although it can be debated that his power may much higher if we include the shadows under his command as personal power for the likes of Shadows Asgard. But in that case, the scores for the other categories would drop to ensure that it is level). Commanders - 3/10 - His three commanders of Absolom, Hogback and Perona are reasonably strong for paradise. However, the only commander who poses much of a threat in terms of combat is Perona, with her ability to disable opponents far stronger than her. Lieutenants - 5/10 - The general zombies of Moria's crew are very strong single combatants whose undead nature poses a decent challenge. Army - 8/10 - This is where Gecko Moria's strength shines through. He has an army of near immortal soldiers. We see the likes of Luffy and Zoro tear through these enemies; but how would an average marine fare against these undead monstrosities? In great enough quantities these zombies can pose a threat to an army of similar strength. Allies - 1/10 - Moria is indirectly allied to Dracule Mihawk through Perona. Territory - 4/10 - Moria controls Thriller Bark and hunts ships in the Florian triangle.

Dracule Mihawk - 24/60

Shocking to most reading this, but Dracule Mihawk is not the closest to being an Emperor, as he lacks some key aspects.

Personal Power - 10/10 - He is the only Warlord to achieve this full score, as we know that he is Shank's equal. There is no debating about his immense strength. Commanders & Lieutenants - 0/20 - This is where Mihawks score drops, as he lacks a formal crew. Perona is Moria's subordinate and Mihawks housemate, so she does not count towards this score. Similarly, he has no allied crews. Army - 8/10 - Mihawk's island is populated by Humandrill's, terrifying beasts who have an impressive command over the blade. This score is lower than others because although the Humandrills are powerful, we do not know to what degree Mihawk can command them and how many there are. Allies - 2/10 - Mihawk is indirectly allied with the Strawhat pirates and Gecko Moria, through his connection to both Zoro and Perona. Territory - 4/10 - Mihawk controls a single island, it is unclear how important this island is, but he's the undisputed master of the island.

Sir Crocodile - 27/60

The first warlord defeated is shocking high on the list. That is because of his immense network. Note, I will be considering him during the Alabasta arc in terms of strength.

Personal Power - 6/10 Commanders - 5/10 - Sir Crocodiles Commanders are the likes of Daz Bones and Nico Robin. These are some dangerous opponents, with strong skills. Lieutenants - 5/10 - Sir Crocodiles Lieutenants are the other officer agents (Mr 5 and higher). These foes have some members which are definitely tougher than most, however the power of this group is spotty. Army - 5/10 - Between the remaining Frontier agents, Millions and Billions, Crocodile has a vast army. However, the strength of the average member is quite low and in the One Piece world, numbers are sometimes not enough. Hence why this score is not higher. Allies - 0/10 - Baroque works has no major allies. Territory - 6/10 - Sir Crocodile controlled the island of Whiskey Peak (one of the first stops on the Grand Line) and held great sway in the Kingdom of Alabasta, controlling one of the major cities.

Boa Hancock - 31/60

In second place, is Boa Hancock, the ruler of Amazon Lily.

Personal Power - 8/10 - She has access to all three forms of Haki and a devil fruit whose ability can potentially cone shot most opponents, including machines like pastifista's. Additionally, if we consider her appearance in Stampede, then her physical strength is immense. Commanders - 5/10 - Her two sisters are powerful Zoan fruit users who have command over haki. They are respectively powerful in their own regard. Lieutenants - 0/10 - This is where Boa's score drops, as she has no secondary set of Lieutenants. Army - 10/10 - This is easily the highest score for the category. boa commands an entire country of women all of whom are trained in fighting and haki (to some degree). This easily makes her baseline forces the strongest out of any warlord. Allies - 4/10 - Boa is strongly allied with the Strawhat pirates, having given Luffy and island to train and helped him significantly during Impel Down and Marineford (to the potential detriment of herself). Territory - 4/10 - Boa rules over Amazon Lily, whose position gives the island a natural defence and the ability to spread her influence over the entire region.

Donquixote Doflamingo - 43/60

Unsurprisingly, the Warlord who is the closest to being an Emperor is the heavenly demon, Doflamingo.

Personal Power - 9/10 - Similar to Boa Hancock, he has access to all three forms of Haki and a powerful devil fruit. However, he has proven that he has awakened his Devil Fruit. Easily making him one of the strongest Warlords. Commanders - 7/10 - Doflamingo has four commanders benieth him: Pica, Trebol, Diamate and Vergo. Each one of these fighters are very strong in their own regard with Vergo going toe to toe with a vice admiral and another warlord. Pica wrecked an entire country, easily the strongest Warlord commander. Lieutenants - 7/10 - Doflamingo's forces are divided into four sections, each with their own officers who are strong in their own regard. Army - 5/10 - Doflamingo;s officers command a force of 2000 men, the majority of whom are standard criminals, which makes the force comparable to baroque works' millions and billions. Allies - 7/10 - Doflamingo has a signficant number of allied crews and subordinate crews. Such as the Bellamy pirates, Disco, Caeser Clown and most significantly Kaido. Territory - 8/10 - Doflamnigo controls a large amount of territory, the most signficant of which is the large kingdom of Dressrosa. However, he also holds power over the small island of Green bit and has outposts on the island of Punk Hazard. This easily makes his territory the largest (and potentially most significant) out of the Warlords.

#One Piece #Jimbe #Dracule Mihawk #Boa Hancock #Doflamingo #sir crocodile #Gecko Moria #Bartholomew Kuma #Analysis #Meta #OP

[feferika]

No one asked this, but here is an analysis of one of my favorite One Piece arcs strictly from a literature and film fanatic standpoint...

PART ONE: TRILLER BARK

Thriller Bark is the first favorite! Because it shows some of the unknown literary prowess of Oda sensei that many people probably would overlook (simply from it being so obscure with the references).

Now, the first obvious reference that this arc brings up is Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.

We know just from a glance that all of these monsters are not quite what they seem from their stitched up appearances. Unlike the stereotypical take on Frankenstein’s monster of the bolts and thunder, we have the truly gruesome amalgamations and chimera-esc creatures truly rising up to greet us.

While these creatures are very comical in appearance, there are also extremely horrific looking moments with them.

Much like Victor Frankenstein, Hogback and Moria do not truly comprehend how their monsters can affect other people. Entire lives are being uprooted for the sake of these monsters that are mutilated for the sake of science and their own personal goals.

We see some of this through the unhinged use of Cindry’s creation which very much mimics the Bride of Frankenstein’s story in many ways.

While she is not solely created for the same purposes as the Bride of Frankenstein, she is still created for the sole desire of another person.

Her disjointed personality shines through in her actions that are very disparate from the original person. Simply put, they are not the same person at all despite having the same appearance. The entire essence of the original Cindry is lost in this creation and becomes a purely physical satisfaction.

These are also highly comparable to the 1932 film White Zombie for the smitten notions and the morally unacceptable actions of the lead character who sought to empower the women for his own. Which is also where we possible gain Cindry’s overall design from.

While many of the overall aesthetic of the arc is reflective of stories like Dracula by Bram Stoker and its many iterations in media, it is also fair to say it is overall taken from inspiration of all of the classic monster films and their aesthetics.

The Post-Thriller Bark moments with Dracule Mihawk, Perona, and Zoro merely expand upon this notion and further solidifies these references

For heaven’s sake, his name is basically Dracula! Anyways, I digress...

Now, let’s take a step back for a moment and analyze Hogback’s name for a moment. Hogback is a geographical term to signify an odd strata formation generally in mountains.

The name was probably chosen for the rough and jagged appearance, much like the person and his creations. Since these formations look much like the stitching of the creations, I find it a very fulfilling name for our doctor.

So, what about Gecko Moria’s name? What makes his name so unique?

Well, many of us who have seen the Lord of the Rings may remember a place called the “Mines of Moria.” However, many of us may not be aware of the origin of the name Moria itself.

So, J.R.R. Tolkien was a fan of many older forms of literature and is known for his work in transcribing many words for the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) from older forms of English that we would not be privy to today without his and others’ efforts.

One of the literary works that Tolkien took inspiration from was a Norwegian story called Soria Moria Castle (or Soria Moria slott). Now, I have read this story before and I absolutely adore it, but many of us may have never read it. So, I will briefly explain it. 

The main character, Halvor, is a good for nothing son who longed for something else in life. He was led astray by a man to set out at sea and is LOST. He gets off his boat and finds a castle.

Hmm. Strange. I think I remember Luffy and the Strawhat crew getting lost at sea and stumbling upon a mysterious castle through the ghost and fog.

Anyways, many things happen as Halvor is in this mysterious castle.

First, Halvor is warned about a three headed troll living on this land.

Second, Halvor is asked to wield a sword.

Third, a marriage deal is offered to Halvor with multiple women involved.

Fourth, there is a time where the parents of Halvor find their own son unrecognizable until a series of events later.

The story continues with more series of events with weddings and travel using magic, but what is important is that many other elements of the story shine through in this One Piece arc.

So, while many can chalk this arc up as being purely classic monster aesthetic, there is clearly more going on here than we first realized.

So, now we know why the name Moria is relevant. But what about Gecko?

In Japanese, Gecko means “Moonlight.” Which that alone feels fitting for a man that revels in the shadows for his malicious intentions.

Now, it would be folly of me to chalk all of these references up to solely one Norwegian folktale since many of these comparisons can be shared with the story The Island of Doctor Moreau by H. G. Wells.

This is a story of a shipwrecked man who details the actions of the doctor on the island who creates human hybrid amalgamations using animals.

Many of the animal amalgamations mentioned in the story are also featured in this comic itself. For instance, the character recounts how he looked upon creatures that resembled “swine” much like our beloved Lola’s monster form. There is also mention of an ape-man, rabbits, sloth-creatures, hyena-man, etc...

BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY! He mentions a leopard-man! Even a puma-man!

HE ALSO MENTIONS... DARE I SAY IT... DOG-MAN!

Anyways, it’s mostly about the animal-human hybrids. That’s what you need to gather from that story.

So, what about some of the other characters? Ones like our precious Ghost Princess Perona?

Well, there is no REAL evidence to what she is in reference to other than the idea of ghosts, poltergeists, and spirits often being entities that mock and toy with others. For instance, most western depictions of ghosts like the three bullies in Casper or some of the small-fry ghosts in GhostBusters.

I like to think of Perona’s ghosts as more of an Inkwell Era reference.

Which is also what I pertain to most of Brook’s enchanting humor. So, think cartoons like Betty Boop and you have the general idea of what I’m talking about.

Perona is also very characteristic of the idea of women who reside over the horror media and truly reign on it. We’re talking Elvira, Vampira, Morticia Addams, etc... Horror Queens to put it simply.

But this neglects some of the later iterations known as Scream Queens which over the years have gathered a more gothic punk aesthetic such as in The Return of the Living-Dead, Underworld, or even in REPO! The Genetic Opera...

So, yes. Plenty of horror aesthetic. Which is why we are hounded by zombies and can laugh throughout the entire arc. Since, that’s what classic horrors and cheesy modern horrors are all about.

Of course, Perona’s style itself is more reminiscent of Gothic Lolita culture, but I doubt any of you need little ole ME to point that out.

Why, we have grown up with that representation in many other forms over the years in anime anyways.

It would be odder if Oda sensei DIDN’T touch upon such a cultural iconic look.

So, yes. Perona is great and I adore her. But there are more characters to talk about! Like Brook! Who I have mentioned at least twice now!

Why the name? Why the violin? Why the gentleman look? Why anything?

First, I would like to point out that a brook is a small stream. Streams are known for a multitude of meaning, such as a stream of music flowing or a stream of silly words... Brook is a skeleton man with the power of BOTH and he has a flowing way of working with his soul.

So, then there is the gentleman look. He is specifically supposed to be a man of the past and look contrarian to the people of the present. Giving him a classic gentleman look carries this effect out perfectly and further exemplifies the classic horror setting of this arc.

So, what about the violin? Violins are one of the most performed classic instruments for horror stories but also for uplifting songs because of the varied range it has for musical prowess. Plus it’s an instrument that is easy to carry around and has a long lineage of usage. Perfect for a gentleman who has been around for a long time.

Brook’s introduction brought about plenty of classic tips of the hat to how to ward off evil spirits in a multitude of cultures.

Salt is often used for repelling a variety of supernatural beings, as well as being an ill-omen when spilled.

Crosses are generally used to ward off spirits of “unholy origins” like vampires and demons. Creatures that are created against God.

Garlic is used to ward of vampires.

Omamori (amulets) are used to ward off bad omens and offer protection.

Juzu (prayer beads) and others are used to prayer for resolution to suffering.

We also see glimpses of Ofuda (slips of paper) from Usopp like this one...

The Nobori (vertical flag) that Usopp carries says “悪霊退散/akuryou taisan” which essentially means “evil spirit/demon dispersal”

Usopp and Chopper in general have a very Van Helsing appearance to hunt/ward off the monsters. Van Helsing being the Dutch monster hunter from Dracula... Anyways!

This story arc would not be complete without discussing our dear Kuma. The man with many a shrouded mystery around him and even some analysis on him that I have which may delve even further than Thriller Bark. So, at this point if you are not caught up beyond Thriller Bark, then I would stop reading from this point on...

So, yes, Kuma. The bear symbolism is all there, I do not need to cover that part. What I do what to cover though is the other part of his name. Bartholomew is a name with a multitude of meaning in this story.

We all know that Oda sensei is very clever in his usage of historical pirate names throughout the comic in a variety of means. Bartholomew is no exception in this regard. Bartholomew "Black Bart" Roberts is the pirate figure that Kuma borrows a name from and that is where the similarities between the two ends.

Instead of taking on a particular personage after the pirate, instead his imagery is more similar to one of the Apostles of God.

We know this from Kuma’s very upstanding way of talking and acting, as well as his manner of carrying around a Bible (which has multiple variants throughout the series and is an arguable discussion).

However, I would like to propose that many of the actions that occur with, around, by Kuma, etc... Are all also very synonymous with legends about the Apostle of God himself.

For instance, his physical appearance is reflective of the common depictions of Bartholomew the Apostle as a man with dark skin and curly hair. He is also a person known for being skinned alive and beheaded for his death sentence.

I believe it is also no coincidence that the cross-esc symbol is a reference to this comparison. Even the way his ability works appears like one who is warding off evil.

One could say he’s... hands on...

Anyways! I love this arc and I really hope that other people like my analysis of it and have their own thoughts to share. I do acknowledge that much of my analysis could be my own opinions and not the truth, since most of this is not confirmed by Oda sensei himself. But! I still think it is worth sharing and worth talking about because that’s what literature is all about! Talking and discussing and making your own takeaways from it!

So, try not to be horrified by my... lengthy amount of words and pictures here...

Stay tuned for PART TWO!!!!!!!!!!!!

#one piece #thriller bark #analysis #im sorry but also not sorry #spoilers #for some people who might be newer to the series

[anubislover]

After spending the better part of this evening fencing with nine-year olds, I suddenly have a better understanding of Mihawk and why he trained Zoro. Sure, it's kind of fun being so much better than everyone else, but after a while you get bored. Then you get annoyed that no one's on your level. Then you remember that it’s not really their fault that they’re not as good yet and decide that if you want a real challenge, it’s better to teach those kids rather than stand around and wait for someone good to come along.

What I’m saying is Dracule Mihawk is basically an adult swordsman in a world full of children. Zoro’s that nine-year old who didn’t just get frustrated that he lost and actually wants to get better.

#dracule mihawk #roronoa zoro #one piece analysis #world's greatest swordsman #I'm not even some great fencer it just gave me some insight to how Mihawk might honestly feel #man's bored as hell you guys no wonder he decided to train the dude who might just kill him some day

[bobauthorman]

Zoro’s battle

Looking at One Piece, I’ve noticed a difference in how Zoro’s battles go, between the first half of the Grand Line and the second half.

In Paradise (The nickname of the Grand Line’s first half), Zoro usually wins his battles by mastering a new technique in swordsmanship. For example, in Alabasta, he had to learn how to cut through steel to beat Daz Bones, and in Skypiea, he had to figure out how to send flying slashes to win Sky Battles.

But in the New World, it’s different. Zoro’s battles are of a different sort. He’s up against opponents he can’t beat just by “Cutting just right”. There, he needs to fight more...strategically. In Dressrosa, Zoro is up against Pica, who can merge with and control stone. While Zoro can easily beat someone made of stone, Pica is able to avoid damage by leaving the stone at the last minute. In order to defeat Pica, Zoro has to figure out the nature of his Devil Fruit power, and the weaknesses they are. Once he gets that, Pica goes down in one shot.

Why this shift? Well, I like to think that after training under Mihawk for 2 years, Zoro’s mastered all the sword techniques he needs. And it’s symbolic that he’s begun to see beyond his dream of being the world’s best swordsman Zoro’s path is going beyond just the title of world’s greatest swordsman.

#One Piece analysis #One Piece #Manga #Roronoa Zoro #Dracule Mihawk #Daz Bones One Piece #One Piece Skypiea #One Piece Alabasta #One Piece Dressrosa #One Piece Pica

[kaizokuwritings]

CATCHING OP MEN STARING AT YOU

genre: mini drabble — only fluff warning: nothing with: some mugiwara, warlords and yonko's pirates (1).

⋆ — monkey d. luffy

you were preparing the plates for the other crew members but Luffy was already starting to eat. knowing that there was no point in stopping him, you continued what you were doing without worrying about the other savage next to you, his chewing almost punctuating your movements. it didn't bother you anymore, you were used to it. but suddenly the noises stopped and you thought he had already finished his plate. you turned to him to find him looking at you. you frowned. “Luffy, is everything okay?.” your captain blinked, before smiling, his mouth still full. “i hadn't seen those highlights in your hair, it's super pretty!”. his usual laugh followed his words and your cheeks flushed all at once. but Luffy didn't see it, busy getting back to eating.

⋆ — roronoa zoro

you were lounging on the deck of the boat as the afternoon wore on. the sun was beating down hard and Zoro had sat down not far from you to take a break from his training. you could see him out of the corner of your eye, noticing how his muscles stood out from the effort he was putting in, how the sweat drops were beading on his bare chest, showing off his scar. you blushed at this casual analysis before noticing that Zoro was looking at you too. his eyes were on your figure, and you noticed that you didn't mind. nevertheless surprised, you turned completely towards him, with a questioning look. “what is it, Zoro? do you need something?”. your teammate blinked, as if surprised to have been caught in the act. he quickly turned his head away, and you thought you saw a slight flush on his cheeks. “i... i think you're getting a sunburn on your shoulders.”

⋆ — benn beckman

meals on the red force are always loud and cheerful, and sometimes it was good to be quiet with only Benn in front of you. you had just put your cutlery back down when you realized that the first mate wasn't taking his eyes off you. his gaze was on your lips and you stopped yourself from swallowing. not understanding why he was looking at you so intently, you were about to ask him, but benn beat you to it. his closest hand came to rest on top of your lip to pick up a little bit of sauce that you hadn't even noticed. the feeling of his warm hands on your skin ignited a fire in your belly and your cheeks flushed. that flush deepened when you saw him bring that sauce to his lips. an almost sly smile formed on his face as your gazes locked together, indifferent to the commotion around you.

⋆ — dracule mihawk

you were devouring a book in the great hall with the legendary Mihawk, not at all bothered by the silence between the two of you. you had taken a short break between chapters to raise your head and inspect your surroundings. as you had for a while, Mihawk was in front of you, a glass of red wine in one hand and a book in the other. his gaze was nevertheless directed at you, and as usual, it pierced you and your heart missed a beat in front of the beauty of his eyes. you wanted to ask him if there was a problem, but the words died on your lips. answering your silent question, your host spoke “how long do you plan to stay here?”. panic flared in your belly at this question, and the mere mention of leaving made your heart ache. “very soon...if i'm disturbing you. why?”. he closed his book, and a thin smile stretched his beautiful lips. “i just wanted to know how much time i have left in your charming company.”

⋆ — crocodile

the night was already well underway and you were tidying up your husband's desk. with your mind focused on your task, you didn't notice that Crocodile had stopped and was looking at you. it was only when you looked up at him that you met his golden eyes. you smiled at him and when you saw that he didn't move, you approached him, slightly worried about his lack of reactivity. suddenly, his eyes left your face to look you up and down. “i hadn't noticed you had a new dress, it suits you. wear it more often.”. he easily grabbed you by the waist to bring you closer to him, kissing your collarbone at the same time. you raised your eyes to the sky, while grumbling “of course you didn't notice, you're not looking at anything else but your papers right now”. despite your words, you couldn't help but blush (slightly).

tag list 👀 : @decayz @pirate-shrimpi @chloe-nanami @doctorgerth @issatheartist @ochizokulevy @undercoverweeeb @macdonaldsmanager

#one piece writing #one piece reader insert #one piece x reader #meliwrites #luffy x reader #rorona zoro #zoro roronoa x reader #roronoa zoro x reader #benn beckman x reader #benn beckman #dracule mihawk x reader #dracule mihawk #sir crocodile #sir crocodile x reader

[gildedmuse]

So, at some point this blog might as well have earned the subtitle, "The ZoLaw Headcanon AU Nobody Asked For". In fact, I have a sort of back log of them that I've been meaning to get around to posting, but couldn't be bothered to. Why? Well, because no one actually asked for them.

And I mean, I get why. Are they fanfiction? Are they prompts? Are they summaries of fanfiction that will.never exist? What exactly are you writing here, Mina?

Well, guess what? No one knows. I certainly don't. Hell, in most cases I'm at least going off an idea I've discussed with strangers on the internet. For most of these, I'm just spitballing. We're taking this journey together. We're both equally informed as to where it's going and how I'll get there.

Setting Note: This AU comes with certain truths that you are going to have to accept. Like the idea that in this universe Kendo is a sport with the same popularity of, say, Hockey or Basketball. It can be played single or doubles, and the world championship is a Big Fucking Deal with the public following lead in months before the actual tournament. accept these truths and things will be easier for both of us.

Kendo Rivals/Teammates Law & Zoro :

Law and Zoro are competing in a Kendo tournament - not yet the world championship, but in order to secure a spot in said competition. In this particular fight there is something extra on the line: both kenshi are being scouted, with the winner potentially earning the privilege of studying under games international champion Silvers Rayleigh. Due to the fame of many in the sport, and because Rayleigh hates the way egos and popularity interfer with the matches, the seeds have been kept anonymous. All competitors have been instructed to keep their full gear - including face coverings - on for the duration the the entire of the tournament, until the last match has concluded.

Rayleigh is not necessarily surprised that the press reacts to this by going into full gossip mode, ànd already had plans in place to shut them out of the matches with the acception of a few lone camera crews should they behave in such a predictable but childish fashion. What he hadn't predicted is just how all out certain competitors would go when the press isn't there to actively analysis their every move.

The final two kenshi in particular strike at each other hard and fast, driven on more by some invisible force of will more than even skill or tactics, though both have shown plenty of both throughout their other matches. There is talk from the referees of calling a draw when one of the kenshi makes the smallest error; only Rayleigh mad his opponent seem to even notice the misstep, but that's all the second competitor needs to score the winning hit.

It's only at the end of the match when the masks are removed that Law - still breathless and berating himself for such a stupid error - comes face to face with the realizion that he just lost to that obnoxious, ill-mannered, tactless KID. The one with the offensively green hair. The one apparently Dracule Mihawk came out of retirement to train. He fights like a beast, but obviously immature which makes sense seeing as he's practically still a fucking child. Law has seen him at interviews: He's rude and dismissive and definitely doesn't want to be there.

Meanwhile, Zoro has to accept he just had one of the hardest challenges of his life against pretty boy Trafalgar Law. The older kenshi entered the professional circuit about three years ahead of Zoro, and so he's seen years of press coverage on his opponent - mostly by accident, commentators who confuse idiotic gossip for actual match analysis or simply when he forgets to turn off the TV after watching a match. He knows Trafalgar Law has a reputation in the sport for being a heart stealer, that the press have labeled him one of the Supernovas of the sport, that he earned a reputation as a bad boy for - as far as Zoro can tell - refusing to take humility and openly smirking down camera lens after a particularly showy victory. Which Zoro wouldn't mind, honestly, if the guy didn't seem to enjoy being in front of cameras so much. Now that Zoro simply cannot understand. To be honest, Zoro always assumed he just got this far on his looks fame and family connection. God, imagining losing to such a sexy stuck up jerk.

Just knowing this is the person eho they struggled so hard against leaves both fighters ready to overlook their exhaustion and go another round. And that's before Rayleigh announces they've secured a spot at the world championship...

As a team.

The two make eye contact and immediately agree on one thing and one thing only: this is not going to work.

First of all, Zoro is annoying and rude and has way too many pre-teen girls that follow him around like a damn boy band member. He might as well be since he's always with his best friend, the youngest captain to have won a world cup, Strawhat Football Club's very own Money D. Luffy and his older brother, the actor Portgas D. Ace. It doesn't matter how private the practice is meant to be Mugiwara-ya and Hinken-ya always seem to be there, and wherever those two go there always seems to be a scene.

Then again, at least Zoro doesn't toy with reporters that way Law does. He acts all polite, but his answers are always double sided. He makes more than a few about Zoro before they even begin training together, clearly under the assumption that Zoro is too stupid to get his meaning (just because Zoro says what he means, simple and straight forward instead.of wasting everyone's time trying to figure out what he's talking about). Plus, Law is constantly appearing in the tabloids, usually with some new guy or girl at his side. It's distracting. Not to Zoro - he doesn't care about that kind of stuff - but to some people, and then it becomes a distraction at their practices. He already gets enough of the press and the cameras and intolerable, stupid questions at the matches themselves. Now he has to deal with them every day leaving practice.

Law doesn't understand why Zoro - apathetic, uncultured, idiot kid - is so beloved by so many teenage girls. Law has fans, sure, but at least they seem to know something about kendo and aren't, like, tweleve. There always seem to a gaggle of young girls around the other swordsman (not that he doesn't put on like he doesn't want them there like... Sure, whatever. They follow him like that for a reason and it sure isn't his conversation skills or kind aura), and since this insane partnership now Law has to put up with them as well. Asking questions about Zoro's life like Law has any idea what the boy gets up to outside of practice.

Zoro doesn't understand why Law has to act so superior to him. The way he smirks every time he gets an easy hit on him, or rolls his eyes whenever Rayleigh chooses to asks Zoro a question instead of him. Technically, Zoro beat him at their last real tournament, so why does Law have to go and act like Zoro's some useless kid who doesn't know how to hold a sword let alone use one?

And Law doesn't see how Zoro can possibly be so naive about so much, even if he puts on that mean scowl and tough air. It's clear he had no idea what being one of the Supernovas of this sport entailed, despite the press insisting on labelling him that.

And Zoro doesn't understand why the second the lesson is over Law is just gone. It's not that he wants to spend actual time with Law, but the other boy could stand to act like they're a proper team and a not just some temporary alliance of convenience he is eager to escape from. Zoro always stays around to get in extra training, it'd be nice if he could do it with his partner there as well seeing as he's never played in any matches but singles, and while Zoro is sure he'll be amazing in the doubles, until he's actually earned the title of world's top swordsman he has to keep training.

And Law doesn't see why after every practice Mugiwara-ya has to jump from the stands to grab hold of Zoro no matter how they do. It's annoying, and Law doesn't want to stick around for their little lovefest just so he can congratulate the boy who is too confident as it is (except around girls were he's just embarrassing). Besides, it's so much easier to slip out when he isn't flanked by a fellow supernova, the captain of the current world cup holders, and a goddamn movie star.

And Zoro doesn't get why Law cares about how he looks or the way Zoro acts around the press of a any of that. Zoro certainly doesn't. He's just there for kendo, the rest is just a necessary annoyance he has to pass through.

It isn't until Silvers Rayleigh threatens to drop them out of the tournament himself that either boy is willing to give an inch to the other. They're both use to being in singles, on not relying on anyone else. It's hard to back down from an opponent, even harder to remember that opponent is now your partner.

Being the older of the two, Law decides it's important that he make an offer of peace first. He couldn't stand for Zoro to be the more mature one.

Law: Let me take you on date.

Zoro: *Freezes, half inside his locker, which is good since at least Law can't see him there. He can make any face he needs.* What?

Law: I've seen you with girls. It's horrifying. If we can make it through a double date we can make it through a doubles match. It will seem easy in comparison.

Zoro: *Closing his locker slowly, still lost* Why would I want to come and watch you get all cozy with your girlfriend, Trafalgar?

Law: *Sighs, trying to hold back from rolling his eyes at Zoro's stupidity. This kid is so hopeless* You will bring along your own date, obviously. *Mistaking Zoro's look* The whole point is I'll be there to help.

Zoro: Right. Cause your Dr. Heartstealer. Who better to get relationship tips from.

Law: *Shrugs, neither claiming or disavowing the nickname from the press* Saturday, alright? I'll come pick you up at your dorm so you don't get lost.

Zoro: I don't get lost!

Law: Sure. Just wear something nice, assuming you own anything that isn't work out clothes.

Law: And bring a girl.

Zoro considers not bringing a girl, just to piss Law off. He even think about asking Luffy, but even though Luffy is his best friend in the world, he's not sure he could explain it to him without feeling like an idiot. So he does the next best thing. He calls Ace.

This turns out to be a much better answer than trying to ask Luffy out on a fake date, since Ace helpfully reminds him what Silvers Rayleigh said about getting along or not going to the championship. Ace is right. Zoro would rather swallow his pride and pretend to enjoy the company of Trafalgar Law than lose his chance at that title.

"It's one date, how bad can it be?"

Zoro can imagine it going pretty bad.

For starters, Law shows up at his dorm looking... better than usual, which is saying something (just because Zoro doesn't like the whole act he puts on for the cameras doesn't mean it's all gone entirely unnoticed, especially not how while they both end practice in sports gear and covered in sweat, Law always emeges in some stupidly cool outfit, looking as though he hasn't worked out a day in his life). Immediately, Zoro knows his white tshirt and black pants aren't going to be up to snuff.

Law: Is that a haramaki?

Zoro: It's my best outfit. *It isn't. He just like this haramaki and wanted to wear it, so he did.*

Law: *Already ushering Zoro back into his dorm* If this is a joke, Zoro-ya, if is not a very good one. Did you even listen to what I'm told you?

Zoro: *Crosses arms over his chest and refused to move, forcing Law to practically push him into the small living quarters* No.

"As I expected. Where's your room?"

Zoro doesn't like the idea of having Law in his room at all. Not because it's a mess or because all the posters that might be embarrassing (Mihawk and Rayleigh had both trained him by now, he should probably take those down. At least he's ripped the one of Law off the day he found out they'd be partners.) And not even that one wall is full of messages scribbled by Luffy whenever Zoro was asleep or wasn't there and he had something he wanted to say. They range from "Buy more meat!", to a circled date (talk like a pirate day), to '"I miss you, come home soon", to random names and numbers, to some a little more personal that should probably embarrass Zoro but don't. He loves that stupid wall, regardless of what Law might have to say about it.

No, Zoro just doesn't like the feeling of having a rival turned partner in his personal space, that's probably all there is behind the feeling.

Law enters the room.and immediately heads towards the closet. If anything, he avoids looking around any more than he has too. It's possible the other kenshi has some form of a heart that does understand the idea of empathy, at least, and how awkward it is to.let a rival enter your personal space. Not that Zoro cares what Law might think of whatever he sees there (though with the other boy's back turned and his attention focused on trying to sort through the piles of clothes that passes as a closet, Zoro inches over to his bed, subtly grabbing his stuffed reindeer and hiding it under the pillows. Sorry, Chopper, buddy, it's just why they mean old man is here.)

Two minutes later he gets a shirt (dark green, short sleeved but nice), a button up (long sleeve, white, uncomfortable) and pair of jeans (not his) thrown at him. "These will have to suffice. Hurry and get changed. Being late is rude, and an inability to dress yourself is not an excuse."

Zoro starts to pull off his off his shirt when Law practically snaps, "What are you doing!?"

"... Changing?" Obviously. And Law make him out to be the slow one.

Law face palms, shaking his head. "Not in here! Go to the bathroom!" Zoro doesn't see what the big deal is. They share a locker room. They change in front of one another all the time. Still, holding back his grumbling (trying to remind himself of Ace's advice), he goes to the bathroom to get changed.

When he's done, Zoro's reflection looks miserable and nothing like him. So he messes his hair up some, he rolls up the sleeves. His reflection is still miserable, but now he looks more like miserable version of himself. He supposes that will do. Honestly, he doesn't expect the evening to go better than this anyway.

Law is waiting, leaning against the opposite wall with his eye closed and face set with the expression of someone preparing themselves to be annoyed. When Zoro emerges, Law only bothers cracking open one eye, checking him out from under the brim of that ridiculous hat. They both stand there like that for a while: Zoro getting ready to start a fight if Law tries being sarcastic with him, Law just staring.

Finally, with a sigh, Law pushes himself off the wall, straighten his own outfit. "That'll do." Zoro double checks in his head to find the hidden insult, but since he can't find it, there doesn't seem to be a reason to start a row.

Okay, fine. But he's still uncomfortable.

-💚-

Law's girlfriend is tall and refined, with shoulder length dark hair and olive skin and a smile that Zoro finds immediately suspicious. Zoro's is... Look, he brought Perona, okay? He already knows her (she's the spoiled, obnoxiously cloying daughter of his last instructor) and he doesn't have to worry about her taking it the wrong way. All he has to do is make it through the evening without trying to strangling her.

-🧡-

It's less than five minutes in that Law wants to strangle her.

She's the exact opposite type of girl Law would have thought Zoro would be into. If anything, he suspects she could be one of those very same girls who follows him around, the ones who would rather ignore Law except to ask him if Zoro has a secret girlfriend and what desserts Zoro likes and does Zoro ever just go to sit and think in a cafe somewhere and where would it be and other stupid, private things Law wouldn't even begin to know or care about. Only, if she really were one of his groupies Law feels like she would have stood out, and not in a good way.

She's demanding and rude and pouty with Zoro from the get go, although the second her attention is on Law she becomes much sweeter, just like that. It's almost painful how she's so obviously much more into him than her actual date. She goes as far as to proclaim Law "cute" six different times throughout the meal.

The worst part is Zoro doesn't seem to mind. At all. It bothers Law more than it should. You know, for Zoro's sake.

"Really? I would say Zoro-ya here is much cuter than I am," Law finally reproaches at some point during dessert. Everyone stops eating to check and see if Law hears what he's saying, but in fairness the girl left him with little choice. He'd come here to help Zoro get through a date when, from what he's witnessed, the boy couldn't even get through a conversation with one of his fans without it being a disaster. This pink haired nightmare is making that very difficult for him to pull off. But seeing as she appears interested in Law, maybe she listen to him. He could still save this night if he could turn her attention back towards the boy she is supposedly here to spend time with. "I'm too old to be called cute anymore."

What Law means to do is politely point out how much older he is than her, while also hopefully getting her to take a second look at the boy next to her (who could be, despite all his other flaws, considered cute by some. He still has rounder cheeks and when he does smile, it's bright and young). Judging by the nasty look Zoro gives him while Perona immediately starts to apologize, calling him handsome instead, Law failed miserably.

Luckily, the woman next to him is amazing at taking mistakes and turning them around. "I believe Law meant for that to be a joke about his age. I apologize, he's not always the best at those. Surely, you were simply trying to say they make a cute couple, isn't that right, Law-kun?"

Law looks between the pink hair terror to the apathetic green haired boy at her side. They barely look like a couple, but even if they were, Law isn't sure he'd say they were cute. "Yes, thank you, Robin-chan."

"For what it's worth, kenshi-san, I think you're a very attractive young man. In fact, I'm sure you'd make a cute couple with anyone of us at tis table."

Law quirks an eyebrow at the wording, but before he can return the seemingly sweet remark with his own dry observation - as is their custom - Perona makes a loud objection. "Are you trying to hit on Zoro?"

So that had been Robin's plan! Make the girl jealous so she might reveal her feelings for Zoro. Well done, Nico-san.

"Oh, I apologise. That must have-"

"Ehh, how gross." Perona groans, wrinkling her nose as if about to gag.

Could you have chosen a worse girl to bring, Zoro-ya? Had he even told her it was intended to be a date or did he simply march up to her and demand she show up for dinner, because as of right now she hadn't shown any reason she might have said yes to the first, or even the second for that matter.

Robin is wonderful, of course, even when Zoro is surly and mistrustful and obviously set against liking her. Little by little she prods him out of his shell, asks him about Kendo, about his usual style. He starts to open up to her, stops glaring every time she speaks.

This also annoys Law, but he isn't sure why.

Eventually, Perona throws her arms up in the air. "Well, if you're all going to ignore me, I'm leaving. I only came as a favor to dad, anyway," she declares, sticking her tongue out at Zoro who bites back about no one else being able to stand her long enough to go out with her.

If should be really awkward to watch a couple fight, bit it honestly feels like a sibling squabble more than a break up. Robin actually giggles at some point, like the whole thing is adorable.

"Aren't you going to go after her?" Law asks with a pointed look that silently explains what Zoro SHOULD do.

Zoro shrugs it off, unbothered by Law's judgement. "No."

They sit there in a few beats of awkward silence.

That's about when the whole idea really blows up in Law's face.

It's not Zoro's obvious apathy, Perona throwing a fit, or even Law's strange protectiveness of his kendo partner that does it. It's that stupid Portgas boy.

"Hey, there, baby." Everyone including Zoro looks surprised when Ace slides into the booth beside the green haired kenshi (well not Robin, Robin never looks surprised). "How's the date going?"

"Disastrous," Law answers, elaborating on Zoro's shrug. Ace laughs, slings an arm around Zoro and shots Law a grin he seen a hundred times on magazine covers and television and yet never realized how annoying he found it until it's directed right at him.

"I kinda figured it would," Ace says, pulling Zoro close and leaning in enough that the boy's earrings chime with each word. He doesn't even bother whispering, so Law isn't sure what the point in this whole charade is. Ll he's managed to do is half drag poor Zoro into his lap and get close enough that his lips are practically dragging over Zoro's skin with each wo-

Oh.

"Came by in case you needed saving." Then he bites at Zoro's ear.

Zoro gasps - a shocked, pleased sound - before his jaw snaps shut and he turns to stare at Ace. Ace leans back in the booth with his arms stretched out and a cocky grin as he watches Law. Law glares back, not about to back down from some pretty boy whose only famous for playing one good role. All three are completely silent.

Robin giggles into her hand.

"I'm starting to see why the date didn't work out," she chips in happily, clearly amused by this whole little show Portgas was putting on. Law really had thought she was smarter than that.

"Trafalgar here is the one who told him to "bring a girl". Kinda presumptuous of you, wasn't it?" Ace finally moves his arm from around Zoro, only to lean into the table, giving Law a accusing look.

How dare he suggest-! Law had only been-! As if he would have cared if Zoro had come with a boy! It wouldn't have bothered him in the least! It's just with all those girls that follow him around, Law had assumed... Not in a bad way, damnit! If Zoro had expressed any interest in boys surely there would have been plenty of them after him as well, though. It's not as though he isn't -

Law doesn't like Portgas D. Ace at all.

"It's hardly my business who Zoro-ya chooses to be with," Law says, calm as he can considering his current heated frustration with the boy across from him. "Though as his partner, I have to say, I find the choice of this particular technique to be inadvisable."

"You don't understand why he likes-"

"I don't understand why he likes you, Portgas-ya."

Despite the sharpness of Law's comment, Ace looks damn smug about the exchange. Next to him, Zoro is clearly wondering just what the hell Law is thinking and what he's even trying to achieve. He refuses to take his eyes off Portgas long enough to pay Zoro much attention, but out of the corner of his eye he can pretty much tell Zoro's mouthing something along the lines of, "What the hell?" right at him.

Law doesn't really know, he just knows he can't stand this man who seems so comfortable touching and holding and just being there with Zoro.

"That's sweet," Ace chuckles, turning his attention back to Zoro, who is still giving Law mean, pointed looks. "You didn't tell me he was such a big brother."

Law all but snarls at the comment. He doesn't like how it sounds, what Portgas is trying to imply.

Zoro is still eying up Law, though, so he does he best to hold back his anger. "He isn't."

"He sure acts like it." Zoro doesn't take his eyes off Law until Ace all but forces him to turn away (which pleases some feral ache deep in Law's chest he has no plans to ever think about), cupping his chin and facing the boy towards him. "Look how worried he is over who you're dating."

Then, as if to make his point, Ace kisses his partner. Right there in the middle of the restaurant.

It doesn't come as a surprise, Ace broadcasted it well enough, and still it makes Law furious to watch the older boy lean in and lead Zoro through the kiss. He parts Zoro's lips, he pulls Zoro closer, angling him just so. Law could turn away from the whole shameless display but instead he finds himself watching as Zoro leans in to Ace, as his hand curls into his shirt, as his cheeks go faintly pink.

Ace makes Zoro moan, and if Law had his sword he would have sliced the space between them just to get Portgas away from the other boy.

Law isn't sure when he started digging his nails into his knees. It's only when Ace pulls away leaving Zoro looking so dazed that the pain really sinks in.

"Hmm..." Ace looks down at Zoro, eyes going lower than was at all appropriate. "You wore my jeans. Cute."

That's the last Law can take. "Those aren't your jeans," he growled through a clenched jaw, stopping himself just short of openly accusing the other boy of being a liar.

Though, of course, that is still what he's doing. Ace throws him a look that says he understands this perfectly well. He gives Law another chance. "What do you mean to say, Trafalgar?"

Instead of swallowing his own stupid words, Law doubles down. "I got those out of Zoro-ya's closet. They aren't your jeans." Because if they are that would imply...

Well, Ace's smile is enough to let Law know that's precisely what he means to imply.

No, there's no way. Zoro was supposed to show up with some equally young, shy kendo girl. He was suppose to be awkward and stupid with her, and Law was supposed to be sarcastic but understanding. They'd get through the night and the girl would give Zoro a chaste, shy kiss at the end of the night and then next day Zoro would show up to practice smiling and excited and they would stay on the same team and the girl would never come up again. This... This is unacceptable. Zoro isn't supposed to actually be seeing anyone. Especially not someone like Portgas D. Ace. Someone who had stayed over at his place, who casually left clothes in his room and who already came to a his games, would likely keep coming and reminding Law that-

He hates Portgas D. Ace. He really does.

"A protective older brother, too," Ace mocks. "What's wrong Trafalgar? You seem upset."

Before Law can say something even stupider that he had, a soft hands curls around his shoulder. "Law-kun, I do believe it's time I got back home, don't you?" Robin asks with a perfect smile, clearly trying to usher him out because he starts more trouble.

He wants to point out Ace is the one who came here uninvited and ruined the evening Law had planned, but even thinking it forces him to realize she's right. He needs to not be here right now.

He storms off without a word, leaving Robin to say goodnight and what a pleasure meeting them had been. Law's too busy trying not to think, to rid himself of the things he had already thought. If he could just pretend this night never happened, the tomorrow everything could go back to how it was and he'd be fine.

-💚-

About three seconds after they're out of sight, Zoro has his breakdown. "What the hell was that?" He punches Ace, who clearly hadn't been expecting it because he gets the older boy to flinch. "What about all that crap about getting along and staying a team? Arg, you made me ask out Perona, you jerk! Why do that if you were just going to come over and antagonize him!?"

Zoro's head hits the table with a solid thud. He's got no idea what's happening. Why did Ace show up in the first place unless he knew brining Perona would fail? Why had he mocked Law like that when he knows how important these matches are to Zoro? What did Law have to be so upset about anyway? Why had he gotten so mad at Ace and how did Ace know he would, because he's clearly been messing with Law. Fuck. Why is this happening to him?

"It'll be okay, little brother," Ace says, ruffling up Zoro's hair. "Tommorow, I'll bet you anything he tells old Rayleigh you two worked everything out. You just wait."

"Don't say that," Zoro mutters into the table, not liking either Ace's disrespect of his teacher or the nickname. Not right after Ace had kissed him like that. It's probably his first really real kiss, and Ace hadn't even meant it. Great.

Turning his head, he glares up at Ace, still laying half across the table. "How can you be sure? He seemed pretty pissed." Zoro didn't know what about, but it's obvious Law had not been happy. He looked like he had been about to lean over and punch the both of them of he'd had Kikoku with him, sure as anything there would be blood on the floor and they would owe the restaurant for their freshly cleaved table. He's gotten use to the other boy looking at him like he's vaguely annoyed by Zoro's very presence; he's never had Law actually get out right furious with him like that.

Sometimes, Zoro enjoys getting under Law's skin just to see the older boy get worked up. He makes these faces that Zoro likes a little too much, and it's nice to know he's done something that's annoyed Law rather than just him being there annoying Law. But he hadn't enjoyed THAT at all.

Ace just snickers, flashing Zoro his biggest grin, the one that -even though they're not blood related - let's you know Luffy really is his little brother. "Just trust me, that guy wants to keep your little team together as much as you do." Ace seems to consider this for a moment before a knowing smirk comes over his features and he chuckles again. "No, pretty certain he wants it more right now. But you'll get there."

Zoro makes sure Ace understands just what he thinks about that the the meanest face he can manage. Ace remains unaffected. "It's my dream to win the world title," Zoro reminds him, voice absolute resolved. "More than anything in the world. Way more than Trafalgar Law wants it. He's more interest in the press and the fame and the girls."

Ace ruffles his hair again, ignoring the way Zoro growls at him. "You seemed to enjoy that kiss, huh?" He teases, winking at Zoro and forcing him to bury his head back against the table. Better than letting Ace see him turn bright red.

"Maybe I was going along with your stupid plan," Zoro grumbles, not willing to admit out right that he hadn't even been aware Ace had a plan (still isn't one hundred percent convinced he did, certainly not one Zoro has figured out). "Did you consider that?'

"Mmm...." Zoro freezes up, feeling Ace's hot breath against his neck. "Then you're a better actor than I thought."

Zoro can feel Ace scoot closer and tenses up just as the other boy's tongue traces the shell of his ear. It's... Oh, it probably shouldn't feel so good. Fuck, how did Ace...? Zoro's eyes flutter close and he hears this soft little mewling sound, only realizing that's him when Ace chuckles against his ear.

Without looking up from the table, Zoro takes a swat at him. Fucking pervert!

"This will be a lot more fun if you get use to it now," Ace promises, fingers sliding up along Zoro's neck. "Then again, you're pretty cute when you go all speechless and needy. That could work for us."

Zoro has no idea what Ace is talking about (also his fingers feel really good travelling the length of his spine) but something a lot like his Luffy warning starts ringing in his head. And that always means trouble for Zoro.

-🧡-

"Actually, sir, we got together on our day off. We managed to come to an agreement."

Law is looking at his sensei as he answers the question about if their team has a future in this tournament, but he can feel the confusion rolling off Zoro.

What did the other boy expect him to say? "Actually, Rayleigh, I took Zoro on what I had assumed would be a mock date, but it turns out he has very real boyfriend. He implied the two have slept together and I got so jealous my girlfriend had to escort me out of the restaurant so I didn't attack him."

It would have been more honest, but Law has not worked this hard for this long just to drop out of the games because of some silly, unconsciously harboured crush for his teammate. No, he planned to stay in this for a little longer, regardless of whatever sudden realizations he may have been forced to face over the last two days.

It doesn't hurt that by staying in the championship, he'll be staying close to Zoro, either.

Fuck, he's so fucked.

It's pathetic how obvious the whole thing is to him in hindsight. Complaining about the way Zoro would walk around in that tight blue tank top. Staring at him through every interview. He'd been jealous of a bunch of school girls!

Law had even convinced himself that Zoro didn't talk to them out if awkwardness - it's easy to imagine the boy who couldn't even strike up a flirty conversation with one of a dozen girls swooning over him of course wouldn't notice subtle signs of interest here and there - rather than the more obvious answer that he simply isn't interested. Why would he be when he has a goddamn movie star back at home to keep his bed warm?

That's possibly the worst part in all this. Law had himself so blinded he didn't even notice Portgas mocking him until it was way too late to take hide the truth. And after looking back on the night, Law has no doubt the other boy had been playing with him..when subtle jabs hadn't worked, he'd straight up kissed Zoro while Law watched on, and when that had failed all it took was the implication that they'd shared a bed and Law had all but jumped up to try and force Ace to take it back. Just imagine those headlines:

BRILLIANT KENDO STRATEGIST DEFEATED BY THEATRE KID USING MOST OBVIOUS PLOY EVER

If keeping their spot in the championship didn't hinge on Rayleigh thinking they could work together, Law wouldn't have come in today. He still isn't sure how Zoro's going to react. Did Ace have to tell him or had Law been that obvious by the end? Either way, they had to have talked about it, right? If the situation where reversed, if Law were some famous film star with a cute kenshi boyfriend whose kendo partner obviously had a thing for him, he'd definitely have some questions. He'd come to every practice just to make sure that bastard kept his hands to himself. Law chuckles to himself at the image. No doubt, that would drive Zoro fucking insane.

Except Ace walked into that restaurant ready to get under Law's skin, knowing Zoro had brought the girl first in order to appease Law. That doesn't make sense unless.... God... What if that whole awkward persona is just an act? What if sweet, little Zoro likes when his boyfriend get all jealous?

(And now Law's imagination is in overdrive. He can imagine it all to easily, and in vivid color)

I mean, why go on a double date and take a fake girlfriend and a guy your boyfriend clearly doesn't trust? Zoro seems a bit naive on such matters, but no one can be THAT blind. It doesn't make sense.

Unless he gets all hot and bothered seeing his actor boyfriend being so possessive.

If that were the case, Law would happily indulge such needs.

Maybe when they get home, Zoro teases him all the way to the bedroom, tells him all the suggestive things his teammate said to him, how he kept finding all these reasons to lean against him or run his hands over him, how poor Zoro can just feel his eyes lingered in the locker room until Law just can't take it. He needs to remind Zoro-ya who he belongs to is with. Zoro teases Law to the breaking point. The green haired boy all but forces Law to throw him into bed, down on all fours. That Is until Zoro keeps trying to get to him. So Law has to pin him, face down, to the matress just to shut him up. Pulls his hair back just to hear the way he'd cry out so desperately for him when-

Fuck. He is so, so fucked.

Maybe just out of thanks for getting Rayeigh off their back, Zoro doesn't say anything in the locker room, and Law's decent enough he keeps his back turned until well after Zoro's done changing. There's a short pause (is he waiting for Law?) And he hears the door clonk closed, then Law rushes to put on his protective gear before all but running to the practice floor.

"Good to see you've decided to join us," Rayleigh says, voice booming and way to cheerful for the morning. Law bows before apologizing. Up in there stand someone gives a shout and tells Zoro to kick his ass.

He says someone like the stands are packed full. It's just a practice. There may be a few cameras, some visitors, maybe one or two recruiters or specialists, and then, of course-

"Come on, babe! Cut him up!"

Portgas D. Ace and Monkey D. Luffy seem to be able to sneak or charm their way into every practice no matter how closed Rayleigh tried to make it, and since today is one of those days with a handful of people scattered through the arena, Law is guessing the two brothers didn't have to try too hard to get in. Still, don't they have lives? Movies to film, their own practices to attend? Just anywhere to be that isn't here?

Law grinds his teeth together as Zoro beams up at the two, just like he does every damn day. It use to just be a slight annoyance, though really Law had no reason to get annoyed by the gesture other than it meant Mugiwara-ya was in the crowd and sure to be a loud, bouncing ball of distraction.

[Now though, he supposes it makes more sense. He remembers the dazed look in Zoro's eyes after being kissed. Did he always look so helpless after every kiss? He certainly always seemed equally excited to see his boyfriend had shown up, even though it hardly qualified as a surprise when Ace and Luffy made a point at being there for every match, practice or official. What had Ace done to deserve that kind of admiration? Interviews and gossip reports gave the impression there's just something about Ace, some unique spark that you can't explain, something that has to be expierenced.]

Rayleigh has them go through several kata as he has done every day since Zoro - upset with Law over some stupid reason or another and eager to get started - had snapped that they weren't beginners who need to hold hands.

[Law isn't an idiot, that's just what reporters say when a person is attractive and charming and something of a flirt. Law had seen that in Ace already and it was nothing special. Maybe if you aren't use to having such a charismatic force aimed directly at you, but being personable and good looking isn't the same as having personality or being good.]

They bow to one another. The formality of the silent tradition is somewhat undercut by Luffy's loud cheering. Law is experienced enough to know better than to take his eyes off his opponent, especially for that crucial first strike. Still, when he doesn't hear Ace's voice alongside his brother's, he can't help but glance up at the stands.

The fucker has the audacity to wink at him, leaning back in his seat, feet propped up on the chair in front of him. He looks almost too casual, like he's posing for a magazine cover. Law scowls, his grip tightening on kikoku's hilt as he braces for Zoro's incoming hit, subconsciously knowing all his partners patterns and movements. He only breaks eye contact with Ace out of respect for his opponent and the sport.

[If you did a search through Law's public history, it may not always be so gentle with him, but it showed someone who is skilled at what he does and won't fake humility just so the press would praise him. Otherwise, what is the difference between the two? You could read plenty of articles trying to explain the appeal behind Dr. Heartstealer, the supernova of kendo who comes off as a little wicked, a little dangerous, plus some other indescribable quality that no one ever seemed able to put into words (it would seem that Ace's spark isn't so unique after all). Then it's a catalog of girls and guys who they've been seen with, rumourmongering regarding who broke whose heart, a few of the worst case scenarios end up crying to some tabloid, a handful of gossip columns from when they were younger and messed up the way you do. The biggest difference seems to be that Law never drove a car into the Upper West River.]

Zoro's strikes are practiced, controlled, the kind of hits that Law has gotten use to. He's honestly surprised there is no anger behind them, none of that fierceness Zoro brings to real matches, or when he's feeling attacked. So he isn't the least bit effected by Law's feelings? It's preferable to him being angry, at least. Law knows as much, rationally speaking.

So why is he so disappointed when he expects Zoro's attacks to bite and instead they are designed to barely graze?

[And didn't finish twenty seventh in a list of the fifties Most Desirable Bachelors.]

"You should pick up your game, Roronoa-ya. You're boyfriend looks rather bored. Perhaps he's losing interest?" Now why the hell would he say that?

[And has an actual skill, something he's worked hard to perfect, something he does that relies on more than a pretty smile and photographic face. So there's that.]

If Law is puzzled by his own stupidity, Zoro is completely confounded by it. With their locked blades between them, Law can still see the flash of utter bewilderment on Zoro's face, as though he's hot no idea what Law could possibly be talking about.

It's just as easy to see the moment realization dawns, since Zoro loses concentration to glance back towards the stands.

[Maybe Zoro doesn't mind that he looks like a lovesick puppy enamoured with someone just because they're attractive and glamorous and charming and not much else. Maybe he doesn't want someone who challenges him, who pushes him to be stronger.]

Law doesn't hesitate.

[Law doesn't believe that.]

He strikes low, where Zoro's left himself entirely exposed. The gear takes most of the hit, but Law swings with such ferocity that a bruise is all but guaranteed to bloom across the spot, marking Law's victory across Zoro's skin. The hit is sharp and fast, and with enough force that it knocks Zoro off his feet, sending the boy skidding across the mat a good foot and a half before collapsing completely.

"Zoro!" He hears Zoro's friend shout out over a few shocked sounds from the rest of the crowd. He doesn't have to look over to know the two brothers are more than likely racing towards the floor.

In most smaller arenas, that kind of strike would have earned Law a penalty. Rayleigh just considers the two of them for a moment before giving Law the point.

Law winces as the scoreboard number goes up, taking two long strides over to where Zoro is just now pushing himself up onto his hands. Law collects the two lost katana on the way, offering them up to the still seated boy.

He shouldn't have been given that point. That hadn't been a hit he'd ever want to win on. It had been out of pettiness, not planning, and he'd not only gone for Zoro's weakest defense, he'd lashed out with as much strength as he could manage.

He'd wanted to use Ace against him. He'd wanted to to leave a mark. He'd wanted to show he is more than strong enough to take Zoro. He'd wanted to hurt him, just a little. He wanted to get Zoro angry.

He expected he would be after a cheap hit like that.

So when Zoro starts climbing back to his feet, it's Law that ends up staggering backwards a few steps, left feeling unsteady and reeling. With his hands still on his knees, drawing in what has to be painful breaths, Zoro shots Law a crooked smile.

It's a toothy, dangerous grin that says he might just be waiting for you to get close enough to rip you apart with his teeth. It's more dangerous, still, because Law wants to smile back. "I hope you've got something better than that planned for the actual tournament, Trafalgar," Zoro says, reaching out for his swords. "Or you're going to have to go on a lot of double dates."

-💚-

All in all, Zoro thinks this practice had to be one of their better ones. Maybe it's because, despite Ace telling him not to worry, Zoro had spent the rest of Saturday night and all of Sunday wondering what he would do if Law flat out told Rayleigh they couldn't work together. Could Zoro convince the old man to take him on as a singles player? Would there even be a spot open? Maybe he could recruit another teammate. But Rayleigh would have to approve, and he seemed pretty adamant that Zoro and Law work around their issues if they wanted to continue onto the championship.

He could try again in three years, but the very thought of simply giving up like that hurt. He couldn't come so close to his dream just to let the opportunity slip away before he even got the chance to compete.

By the time he'd come in Monday morning, he still hasn't come up with a better plan than, "convince Law to give me second chance" and failing that, "plead with Rayleigh to let you stay and train". Unfortunately, he couldn't quite manage to speak with Law before Rayleigh came marching into the locker room.

Zoro appreciated how RAYLEIGH didn't mess around with their heads (the way he is sure Law... And maybe now Ace.... Would have). Their sensei simply looks between the two of them, then simply asks if they had determined how they would be able to work together or not. No trying to slowly force the answer out of them with a series of annoying questions of using some funny metaphor. Just direct and to the point.

But it was harder to appreciate when he was sure this was the end of his chance for the title, at least this time around.

No matter what Ace promised him, he's still been shocked at how quick Law was to reassured their teacher that, yes, they had worked things out and we're sure they could continue on as a team.

Zoro just about wanted to hug him for putting the promise of the championship above their stupid personal issues. Except he didn't want Law to change his mind

Everything else seemed easy in comparison to this morning, when his challenge had been simply being allowed to stay in the tournament. Even the hit Law got on him.

He had utilized a rather sneaky technique to get Zoro to drop his guard, but Zoro is the one who had been so easily distracted (does Law really think Ace is his boyfriend? Zoro had been sure he would have worked out Ace's little prank by now. Maybe he had Nd this is some sort of weird payback?) and otherwise the strike - while stronger than Zoro would have expected - had been completely fair. Zoro could hardly blame him for seeing an opportunity and the taking it. That's what they train to do.

It'd been harder to convince Ace of that when him and Luffy had jumped over the wall and run over to his side. Luffy had been afraid Zoro had been cut up again, but Ace... Ace just seemed to be there for a fight.

Rayleigh had stepped in once Law hadn't refused and the cameras started clicking. He'd done what Zoro had been pretty sure was impossible; he'd kicked Luffy and Ace out of the arena.

Still, without his friends there to get all overprotective, Zoro had been allowed to push himself through the rest of practice, which had been one of their smoothest together. Particularly when they practiced their team footwork. So Zoro hadn't been bothered by the pain that came with breathing.

Now that it's over, though, and they're back in the locker room, Zoro is getting a good look at just how bruised he's gotten. His entire side is an ugly mix of black, blue and purple, centered right under his ribcage. He can barely pull his shirt down without wincing, And going off the deep colors of the bruise it's going to keep hurting for a while longer.

Wow, Law really has some force behind him when he goes for it.

"I should have been more careful." Zoro jumps, yanking down his shirt when he realizes that at some point, Law had snuck up on him. The older boy is leaning next to his locker, staring at Zoro's side like he can still see the giant bruise he left there.

Zoro tries to cover the pain caused by his own awkwardness with a snort of what he hope sounded like disbelief and not a fresh wave of hurt. "I don't know, your aim seemed pretty careful to me." It's not as if Law had managed to strike him that hard on accident. Anyway, Zoro honestly didn't care. It'll just remind him to do a better job keeping his focus on his opponent at all times.

He honestly doesn't understand why Law looks so guilt about a strike he had every right to take. "Perhaps Silver-ya should have let us two fight it out." Law chuckles, the sort of dark, perverse laugh with no real humour to it, but still makes Zoro's skin feel all warm even if he can see the other swordsman is still upset. "I think it would be better if we took it out on each other rather than you."

#this idea turned into a part of a fic #and then i realized #what am i doing #what am i even writing #I can't just write a whole fic onnthe fly and post it to tumblr #that is not the point of this exercise! #the zolaw au nobody asked for #one piece #one piece fanfiction #one piece au #zolaw #zoro x law #zoro x ace #roronoa zoro #trafalgar d. water law #trafalgar law #one piece perona #portgas d. ace #monkey d. luffy #kendo rivals

[fakescorpion]

Continuing the “Mihawk and Crocodile must have history” agenda, by rewatching marineford war. It should be noted that, while it was generally assumed by fans that they fought each other, in actuality Mihawk was never shown to direct his blade outright at Crocodile.

Weapons clashing for one panel was the prevalent indicator for characters lock in combat, yet the only time Mihawk’s blade ever came close to pointing in Crocodile’s general direction was when Crocodile blocked a slash meant for Luffy. Comparing to how multiple attacks were explicitly shown to exchange between Jinbe and Mihawk, or between Doflamingo and Crocodile... Mihawk and Crocodile’s weapons were never shown to touch at all when they were facing each other. We should also keep in mind that the last warlord to get in Mihawk’s way was Jinbe, and Mihawk sent him packing with minimal effort.

Even more curious, after hearing that Crocodile was in a bad mood, Mihawk was never seen bothering another soul throughout the rest of the battle.

#mihawk also glared at doflamingo for cutting crocodile's head i think? #or am i overthinking #i need to know what is up with these two #dracule mihawk #sir crocodile #dracule mihawk x sir crocodile #sir crocodile x dracule mihawk #one piece character analysis #one piece #cross guild

[fakescorpion]

Chapters: 2/2 Fandom: One Piece Rating: Mature Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Relationships: Crocodile & Dracule Mihawk, Crocodile/Dracule Mihawk Characters: Dracule Mihawk, Crocodile (One Piece), Buggy (One Piece), Cross Guild Additional Tags: Childhood Trauma, Blood and Violence, Body Horror, Mental Instability, Complicated Relationships, Complicated Friendships, Alternate Universe - Canon, Canon Compliant, Backstory Series:    Part 1 of once upon a fairytale  

Summary: Backstory for Dracule Mihawk and Sir Crocodile, the reason behind the formation of Cross Guild, and the shared traumatic history that leaded to Mihawk hunting marines and Crocodile chasing after the illusive title of Pirate King.

#dracule mihawk #sir crocodile #one piece character analysis #dracule mihawk x sir crocodile #sir crocodile x dracule mihawk #mihawk #crocodile #cross guild #making up backstories for my lovelies #canon typical traumatic past childhood though so #one piece 1058