#we were robbed of having luffy wearing a dress

[tinukis]

HATERS MAD I CAN EXPERIENCE CHILDLIKE WONDER ☀️🌟‼️‼️‼️

egghead becoming animated has permanently changed me as a person

#one piece #monkey d luffy #luffy #gear 5th #gear 5 luffy #gear 5 #one piece spoilers #egghead #fanart #my art #digital art #artists on tumblr #art #tin art #'why is luffy in his underwear' #every time i draw egghead luffy i'm removing his shorts #we were robbed of having luffy wearing a dress #so i remove his dumb shorts #yes ik if he didn't have shorts under he'd be fighting in his undies as gear 5 #and i think that would be hilarious and fitting #LET THE MAN FREE

[edward-d-sonata]

JFL Ch.3 Party

Sika smiled as she heard the song playing as she pulls up to the plantation style house parking her bike near Perona's black and pink  2012 Ferrari Italia . Taking her helmet off with her jacket and leaves them on the bike as she goes in to see. Most of the people were Luffy's friends before spotting her bestie wearing a black and white gothic Lolita dress as usual. "SIKA!!!", Luffy and Perona yell hugging her as she hugs them both back "So where's the food? I haven't ate since lunch.", she says as Luffy pulled her to the kitchen "Thatch give Sika some food , Sika this is Thatch , him, Marco, and Izou are the oldest out of the 6 of us, This is Killer's Sister Sika she an amazing mechanic she's the one who restored traffy's vette.", Luffy said as she couldn't help but slightly blush at how hot his older brother was as his brown hair was tied back into a ponytail as his warm brown eyes gazed into hers. "It's nice to meet you Thatch", she says shyly as Thatch smiles brightly. "It's nice to meet you too Sika, I haven't seen you around here or at my restaurant before so what has robbed my gaze of your beauty?", he asks openly flirting with her as she blushes more. "I don't really have a chance to go to nice restaurants as usually it's just work or the gym unless Perona invites me somewhere.", she says honestly as she fixed her plate. "We'll once you're finished eating I can show your u what I got in this month for my collection.", he says smiling as she nods taking a bite before swallowing and hears the music stop as the DJ speaks "we got a request for this song from Perona for her Bestie", Apoo says as Sika smiles hearing Angel by Shaggy "She wants me to do something for her if it was something real big it would be Jack Teagarden playing instead of Shaggy, So Batsy what is it you're wanting me to do this time?", she explains to Thatch before asking Perona.

"Easy Beat the shit out of the asshole that cheated on you with that bitch just because you didn't give in to his pressure.", she says glaring at Drake as Sika sighs seeing the smug bastard walking to her . "Well, Well if it isn't the Psycho and her doll , Parties aren't your thing and I know you aren't here with a date after all who would be with a girl that doesn't do anything in a relationship and lives with the four guys she works with.", Drake says as it was taking all the restraint she had to not beat the shit out of him then and there. "Hey Perona I thought you'd at least ask me to beat up someone who'd give me a good fight not a little shit that needed me to save his ass cause he was too chicken", She said as she continued to eat acting unbothered. Thatch walks to them "you good girls, or is he bothering you?", he asks chuckling hearing Sika call Drake a chicken as Perona got an idea "Hey Thatch why not go show Sika your car collection.", she says as Sika smiles and Thatch gently takes her hand in his large calloused one leading her out to the garage of the house where his collection was.

After he made sure no one had followed he turned on the lights as he gently squeezed her hand in his "Bloodstone the other lesser known birthstone of March definitely is a unique username beautiful.", he says smiling "So let me guess I gave myself away with telling you I was a Mechanic?", she asks shyly "bingo but I'm glad it did now we can actually have a conversation but I know that you're matched with two other right? BluePhoenix and KimonoGuy I know who they are as the three of us were in the same room when we joined , I wonder if you'll be shy and adorable or hot and feisty when you find them out, also would you consider dating me while giving them a chance also I'll go ahead and tell you our ages are 45", he said honestly as he was a bit nervous as he stood in his black slacks and chef coat with his scar making him even hotter in her eyes.

"Well as I said in my message I'm not the best mentally and there are some days it gets to where I become numb and emotionally and mentally shut down and in the past i have self harmed and tried to kill myself but my brother caught me before I could go through with it tomorrow I'm calling to make counseling appointments , the reason I still live with my brother, Kidd, heat, and wire is because there are days where I literally can't be left alone because I become a risk to myself if you are sure you can handle that and not being able to have sex with me until I say I'm ready for it then sure.", she says as fear , doubt and panic clouds her mind as he smiles and leans down and kisses her forehead pulling her to him hugging her.

"Sex is nice but I have a feeling when you're ready to tell me your reasons you will and until you're ready I'll respect your boundaries and won't cheat on you unlike that asshole who didn't deserve such a beautiful woman like yourself, I'm proud that you told me upfront about these issues and that you're seeking professional help for it, how about we go for a walk together get away from the others as I can tell you like to put on a strong front infront of others.", he says rubbing her back as he soon lets go feeling her nod as he let go taking her hand as he stood at his full height of 6'8. He leads her out of the back door and down a trail to a beautiful moonlit grotto with a Gazebo covered in climbing roses.

Sika smiles walking out with him "Thank you Thatch even though we've only met and talked today.", she says as she sat beside him cuddling into his side as he pulled out his phone handing it to her as she put in her number and handed him her phone so he could do the same. He kisses her cheek being a complete gentleman towards her but soon her phone buzzed and she saw it was Law who texted saying he was headed to the shop. "Hey Thatch , Wanna ride with me to the shop?,I gotta do maintenance on Law's car since I'm the only one he'll let work on it.", she asks standing up before he stands with her "Sure but do you have an extra helmet?", he asks as she nods before texting Perona that she was headed off with Thatch.

She follows him to the front where she puts on her jacket and helmet before grabbing the spare jacket and helmet she had in her saddle bag. Once he had it on he let her back out before getting on with her as his hands stayed on her hips as she drove them to the Garage where Law was standing outside of the door. He raises an eyebrow wondering who was with her before the two got off and took off their helmets and jackets. "Now that's surprising almost as surprising as you going to a party.", Law says smirking knowingly as she opens the garage door to assess the earlier damage done to the Lyft.

"Alright Law you know the drill put it over the pit.", she says as Law nods driving it over the large semi oil pit as she lines him up before popping the hood as he walks to Thatch to talk to him alone. "So you two are a thing right? If so don't hurt her she's been hurt enough and don't push her away when she's becoming overly affectionate or clingy cause she doesn't want you for your money or name. Before you ask Perona told me also she likes becomes possessive and jealous but not controlling.", he says watching her work on his car. "So Law how do you know this about my girl?", Thatch asks calmly. "Perks of being the Asexual best friend.", he says honestly as he sips on his can of monster.

Sika soon comes over and yawns softly as Law gets an idea "Thacth why not stay with her you know how to drive a motorcycle right take her to your place for the night she's had a rough day", he suggests as Thatch nods leading her out after law left in his car. "Hey beautiful do you need anything from your place so you can spend the night with me?", he asks as she nods and takes his hand leading him to the two story house as Heat was sitting outside on the porch swing with a duffel bag packed for her. "Already got her bag packed with all she will need for your place Thatch , but if you hurt her like that asshole Drake you're dead meat.", he threatened before tossing him her bag as she smiles and softly giggles as she got silly when she was sleepy unless she was on her period. The brunette nods catching the bag before gently picking her up and carrying her to the bike and putting her on it before putting her helmet and jacket on for her before doing the same for him self. He drives them into the garage before picking her up after taking their gear off.

He carried her inside glad to see the party had died down before he began walking through the kitchen spotting Perona walking towards them. "So are you two an item or not?", she asks smirking as Sika had fallen asleep. "Yes but as you and few others know I'm a package deal so gotta see what happens when she meets them.", he says seriously as Perona nods "of course now get her to bed she usually gets up around 5 am not to mention since Kidd got injured her and Killer her to take on his jobs as well .", she says as Thatch nods carrying her to his room and laying her on his bed before shutting the door and beginning to change her clothes for her putting her knee length cactus pattern nightgown on her. He soon plugged both of their phones up , then he strips down to his black boxers pulling on some basketball shorts and crawling into bed pulling their hair ties out and cuddling her as she clings to him.

[anubislover]

Up to Date One Piece Fanfics Masterlist

Welcome to Heart Pirates, Nami-ya (LawNa. Timeskip AU. Nami isn’t going to let a dangerous man like Trafalgar Law hold a life debt over Luffy. So he makes her a deal; if she wants to pay him back, Nami must sail with the Heart Pirates for one year. Rated M.) Chapter 1: The Deal Chapter 2: Check-Up Chapter 3: Meet the Crew Chapter 4: Citrus in the Sun Chapter 5: The Masks We Wear Chapter 6: Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous Chapter 7: Payback Chapter 8: Between a Rock and a Hard Place Chapter 9: Mark of Property Chapter 10: Heated Discussions Chapter 11: Dinner with Dr. Heart Stealer Chapter 12: Love is the Drug Chapter 13: The Lesser Evil Chapter 14: It’s All Fun and Games Chapter 15: When Animals Attack Chapter 16: Salvage Chapter 17: Getting Hands-On Chapter 18: Keeping Faith and Secrets Chapter 19: Lying Hearts Chapter 20: TBA

Siblings Lost and Found (Law and Ikkaku friendship. Pre-series. Ikkaku's been the Heart Pirates' mechanic for a year, but is she just another one of Law's subordinates, or does she mean more? Rated T.)

A Family Matter (Ikkaku-centric, hinted DrakeLaw. Pre-series. As far as Ikkaku was concerned, deep down, every Marine was a corrupt scumbag. Some were just better at hiding it than others. Rated T.) Chapter 1 Chapter 2: TBD

Fraternizing with the Enemy (Killer x Ikkaku. Pre-Series. A month after a one-night stand, Ikkaku finds herself chatting with Killer at the bar, wondering if she should risk her captain's wrath for a second go. Rated T.) 

Not So Easily Replaced (Law and Ikkaku friendship. Post-Amazon Lily. Ikkaku is pissed at how idiotic the Heart Pirates were around the Kuja, so she does what she's always done - vents about it to Law to let off some steam. Unfortunately, when an argument breaks out between them, she's left to wonder if she's really appreciated by her nakama. Rated T.)

A Heart to Be Used as Needed (Law x Baby 5. Doflamingo Family AU. After Doflamingo kills Baby 5's latest "fiancé," she seeks comfort from Trafalgar Law, her childhood companion and current Corazon. What she doesn't realize is that Law's spent the past decade plotting to destroy their "Family," and a woman as biddable and beautiful as her makes not only the perfect pawn, but the ideal wife for the sadistic surgeon. Rated E) Chapter 1: Steal the Heart Chapter 2: Fool the Joker Chapter 3: Corrupt the Queen

A Worthy Ship (Kid x Bonney. Pre-Timeskip.  Eustass Kid is sick of his fellow Supernovas and their lame ships. That is, until he comes across the Jewelry Margherita. Rated T)

A Tea Party for Baby 5 (Doflamingo and Baby 5 family/friendship. Pre-series. Secret Santa gift for  Velvety-Love. Eight-year old Baby 5 has just started her training to be the Doflamingo Family's maid, and Doffy thinks there's no better way to practice than with a tea party. But to his surprise, he finds that sometimes it's just as enjoyable to serve as to be served. Rated G.)

Trust and Dangerous Games (LawNa. Pre-Dressrosa. Law thinks Nami's the only one with sense, distrusting The Surgeon of Death. In a blink he could steal her away from her captain and crew and do any number of wicked things to the helpless navigator. Good thing Straw Hat Luffy isn't as oblivious as he appears. Rated T.)

At Captain Law’s Mercy (LawNa. Zou Arc. Nami’s stressed with worry over Sanji, so Law offers a distraction in the form of sexy and roleplay. Rated E.)

Heartstealers Can Get Jealous, Too (LawNa. Post-Zou. Five times Law got into a figurative dick-measuring contest over Nami. Rated T.) Chapter 1: Back Scratches Chapter 2: Cold Chapter 3: Hats Chapter 4: Examination Chapter 5: Protect

Of Friendships, Captains, and Wedding Dresses (Luffy and Nami friendship, LawNa. Post-Zou. It was supposed to be a relaxing shopping trip, but Nami should have known that wouldn't last when Luffy asked to go with her. Rated T.) Chapter 1 Chapter 2

Hide and Seek with the Heart Stealer (LawNa.  Halloween/Supernatural AU. Nami the witch was asked to rob a certain grave, but the undertaker that protects the local undead catches her. Law proposes a deal - three rounds of hide and seek, and when he catches her, he gets to steal something as his prize. Rated M.)

Super Drake (Drake and Chopper friendship. Sabaody Arc. Chopper gets lost while shopping on Sabaody, and X Drake finds himself unexpectedly signing an autograph. Rated G.)

A Primal Need for a Marine (Drake x Reader. Shipwrecked, captured by pirates, and now bound and kneeling before X Drake, you're a Marine having a hell of a rough day. And it's about to get a lot rougher, as the usually stoic and bashful former rear admiral has a feral side he's looking to let out. Rated E.)

One Hell of a Ride (Ikkaku and Ace friendship/flirting. Pre-series. It takes a lot more than a pretty face to lure Ikkaku away from her duties. However, when that pretty face comes attached to a hot, shirtless man with a sweet ride, well, who could blame her for being a bit reckless? Rated T.)

Sailing Ships and Flash Fics (Multi-ship. A series of flash fics based on prompts and pairings submitted to me on Tumblr. Range from G to T, all safe for work.) Chapter 1: Lunch: Usopp x Kaya Chapter 2: Comfort: Law & Ikkaku Chapter 3: Fix: Hawkins x Law

Naughty Sex and Flash Fics (Multi-Ship. A series of NSFW flash fics based on prompts and pairings submitted to me on Tumblr. Range from M to E, multiple pairings in a number of kinky situations and scenarios.) Chapter 1: Wicked: Law x Nami Chapter 2: Play: Zoro x Ikkaku Chapter 3: Lingerie: Sabo x Koala Chapter 4: Trap: Law x Nami

A Good Heart (Jean Bart believes he failed as a captain. Trafalgar Law doesn’t think that matters. For day 1 of Heart Pirates Week for Jean Bart with the prompt “Protective.” Rated G.)

Miscalculations and Misfits (Law, Penguin, Shachi, and Bepo friendship fic. Pre-series. Early in his piracy career Law has already made mistakes that have hurt his crew. He refuses to make another which is why he’s hired Ikkaku as his mechanic. Unfortunately his oldest friends think it’s a bad idea, and Ikkaku’s own home island agrees with them, though for very different reasons. Rated T.)

#One Piece Fanfiction #fanfic masterlist #sorry for the length #op fanfiction #all links are to archive of our own #this list has been long overdue and will hopefully help interested fic readers #will be updated as new fics and chapters appear

[thewildomega]

Star in the Sand Ch.4

Making your way up the steps of your home you let out a little whimper as you opened the door and stepped inside. Not hearing anything or seeing any lights on you assumed Crocodile was sleeping already. Good you really didn't want him to see you like this. Walking down the hallway with your head lowered you rubbed your face but stopped and knit your brows when you noticed your bathroom light on. Rounding the corner you quickly flushed red and turned on heel. "Why are you taking a bath in my bathroom?" you asked, hearing the sound of the water moving a small amount.

"You are the one that said a bath might help with migraine." he said in a normal deep voice, staying where he was. Seeing her keep her back to him he smirked at how flustered she was, had she never seen a naked man before? 

"Yes well I didn't mean in my bathtub." you said. 

"You expect me to fit in that small one in there? Besides I didn't think you would be home so early." he said. Tilting his head a bit as he finally took notice of her stiff stance and wrinkled clothing. 

Sighing you turned back but kept your eyes up as you reached to grab your bathing supplies and razor. Going to walk to the guest bathroom to shower you froze when his hand grabbed your wrist in a tight but not painful grip. 

Furrowing his brows at the dark mark along her cheek he saw as her face turned away from him more. "You are hurt." His voice came out lower and more caring than he had ever heard it. 

"I'm fine." you assured him, pulling your hand out of his grasp and walking out of the room. Going to the guest bathroom you shut and locked the door, sitting your stuff down on the edge of the tub. Looking under your lashes at your reflection in the mirror you saw the darkening bruise along your left cheek and temple, bringing your fingers up you gently poked the area and winced. Letting out a heavy sigh you looked down and started removing your clothes to take a quick shower. By the time you were done you no longer saw the light on in your bathroom and wrapped a towel around yourself before moving to your bedroom to put on your pajamas. As soon as you could you crawled into your bed and burrowed yourself under the covers. While you were hungry, having not eaten lunch or dinner you didn't feel like cooking. Hopefully Crocodile could manage his own supper tonight. Thinking back to the sight of his bare chest you bit your lip, he was a muscled man and you had taken notice of the small dusting of hair on his chest. You wondered how it felt, if it was soft or coarse or somewhere in the middle. Swallowing hard you closed your eyes and shook your head, nuzzling into your pillow, there was no reason to think like that. 

.................................

He had been waiting in the living room for her but she never came back out after her shower. Glancing to the time he saw it was only nine, he hadn't eaten yet and he doubted she had either. From what he had took notice of she didn't really eat that much, she seemed to forget most days. Standing he moved to the refrigerator and looked for something he could cook. Seeing beef, he rose a brow, he could work with that. Slicing the beef into thin strips he cooked them with onions and some other things before spooning it over the rice. Leaving it to cool on the counter he made them both a cup of tea and then walked down the hallway to her room. Knocking lightly on the door he didn't hear anything at first but then a small noise met his ears and he opened the door. Looking towards the bed he saw a small lump under the covers and furrowed his brows. "Come eat." he said but she didn't move. Crossing his arms over his chest he walked over to the side of the bed she was on and looked down at her. "I know you are not sleeping." 

"Yes I am." 

Rolling his eyes he let out a deep sigh, "I don't cook very often and I damn sure have never cooked for a woman before so you better get your ass in there and eat. We can watch that Dracula movie." he told her, his voice deep and firm, leaving no room for discussion. She laid there for a few seconds longer than needed before she finally stood and walked to the kitchen with him right behind her. 

Looking down at the bowl and tea you grinned softly. "Thank you." you told him and heard him grunt in acknowledgement. Eating your meals in a peaceful silence you kept your eyes down, until he finally spoke. 

"What happened to you?" he asked, his eyes looking over the bruise on her face with hard eyes. 

"Just a little misunderstanding." you said without looking up. 

Dropping his eyes to her darkened knuckles he knew it had been more than a little misunderstanding but if she didn't want to talk about it he wouldn't push the subject. Still though, it angered him to know someone had hit her, that someone had hurt her. Swallowing the food in his mouth he lifted his chin, "How old are you?" 

A little shocked by his sudden personal question you glanced up at him. "Twenty-eight." 

He would have guessed twenty three. He was sixteen years her senior. "When is your birthday?" Humming when she told him he narrowed his eyes, "Since you did not inquired about my own age or birthday I am guessing you already know." he said and saw her give him a small grin. Flickering his eyebrows he lifted the lat bite of rice to his mouth, "Well go on, I'll give you two free questions." He said, thinking he already knew what she would ask. 

Humming you steered your bowl, lifting a piece of meat and rice to your mouth, "Where were you born?"

A little shocked he took a deep breath, "In the East blue, Conomi Islands." he told her and saw her eyes go wide.

"What?"

"You and Nami are from the same place." you said. 

Grunting he grabbed his cup of tea, "Next question." This had to be it.

"What's your favorite color?" 

Okay now he was shocked. Those were not the questions he was expecting. Seeing her still waiting for an answer he let out breath, "I like blue, like the sea...." ...like your eyes, he thought but didn't say. Seeing her give him her usual soft grin he felt that fluttering in his chest and took a deep breath, "Movie." he said and saw her nod before she got up and took both of their empty bowls to the sink. 

.............................

It was day thirteen and he had decided to go back to the bar with her for the day, wanting to get out of her house and also keep an eye on her, even though he would never tell her as much. At the beginning of the night things went rather slow and they both played games of chess to help the time go by. They had even made another game out of it, with every piece the other took they were allowed to ask one question. He had a desire to know more about her, things he had never bother learning about people he encountered before. Taking her piece he set it to the side, "Tell me something about my world that I may not know." he said. 

Humming you looked over the pieces left on the board. "Luffy is Garp's grandson." 

"I already know that, obvious really, they are both stubborn and act like fools." he said. 

"Okay. Luffy is Dragon's son." you tried, moving your piece to take his knight.

Now that he didn't know. "The revolutionary leader?" he asked and heard her hum. 

"What's your favorite thing to eat?"

"Crocodile meat with tomatoes." he said and heard her laugh. 

Hearing the door open you looked up to greet the person when a familiar face met yours.

Noticing her face fall he knit his brows and looked behind him to see a small group of people coming in, one man was in the front with a small smirk on his face and one arm thrown over a woman's shoulder who was sporting a busted lip and black eye. Turning back to see Nina, y/n's co-worker walking by. 

"I'll get them y/n." she said.

Looking over y/n's annoyed face he rose a brow, "That the one you had your 'misunderstanding' with?" he asked. Hearing her grunt and grab the whiskey bottle from under the counter he was expecting her to refill his own glass but to his surprise she made herself a small tumbler and downed it in one go. "How did that whore do that to you?" he asked, nodding to the fading bruise she had tried to cover with makeup. 

Sighing you looked at him, "She hit me with a beer bottle when I was coming back in from taking out trash." you grumbled. "I don't even know what I did." you shrugged. 

Gritting his teeth he glanced at the woman out of the corner of his eye. She wore a short skirt and shirt that showed her stomach and far too much cleavage to be even remotely considered classy. In all honesty she reminded him of a woman one would see at the brothels back in his world. His y/n ... No, not his...Y/N didn't dress like that, other than the one time they had went canoeing he had never seen her wear anything that showed a lot of skin. Most of the time she wore a pair of pants and a long sleeved blouse. Well the other night she had worn a pair of shorts and a T- shirt but even then it had a high collar. Taking a deep breath he saw her move to help Nina with the order for their table. 

Turning back around once you had helped Nina get the drinks onto the tray you saw Rob walking over with a big goofy smile on his face. "No Rob, before you even ask the answer is still no."

"Oh come on good lookin' I ain't even said anything yet." he said, taking a seat at the bar. "What's wrong? Why you look so grrr." he said, scratching at the air. 

Watching y/n walk to the end of the bar to refill the other customers drinks he rose a brow. "Maybe she doesn't wish to be annoyed by little pests like you." Crocodile said as he sipped at his drink. 

Looking to the man he waved his hand. "Naw man, y/n loves me. She just don't know it yet."

"Of course she does." he grumbled. 

"Hey star look, you know how they say you are what you eat?" he said and saw her set the beer in front of him. "Well baby I could be you by morning." he grinned, giving her a wink. 

Scoffing you rolled your eyes and walked away. 

Shaking his head he let out a growl. This man couldn't take no for an answer. For the next hour he listened as the man repeatedly tried to win y/n over with horrible pick up lines. Although, he could see her grinning slightly at some of them and wondered if the man was only doing this to annoy her into forgetting her problems. 

"Okay Starlight what about this one... Are you a pirate?"

Catching his attention he looked at the man with slightly narrowed eyes as he sipped his drink.

"...Because I got a lot of semen waiting for you." he finished.

Almost choking on his drink he heard everyone else laughing and saw y/n looking up at the ceiling. 

"What is wrong with you?" you asked. 

"You baby, but I tell you what, let's go to the parking lot for a few minutes and then when we get back I'll be all better." he grinned, finishing his beer.

Shaking your head you took the bottle and tossed it into the trash, "Goodnight Rob." 

Sighing he stood and paid for his beers, "Alright fine, you just keep playing hard to get." he said playfully before walking towards the door. 

Making sure the an was gone he looked towards y/n and stood. "I am going out." he told her, taking the cigar she had bought him out of his pocket and seeing her nod. 

Watching him leave you made your round at the bar when Nina walked over. 

"Hey y/n I'm going to go out for my break okay, do you want anything from Jim's?" Nina asked. 

Shaking your head you saw her nod and then leave through the back. Washing the few glasses out and sticking them in the dishwasher you grabbed the cleaning cloth and spray, going to start washing down tables when a banging filled the bar. 

"Can we get some service?!" 

Cutting your eyes over to the pool tables you saw the group from earlier standing around snickering and smiling as the trashy woman called for you. Gritting your teeth you walked over to the tables, plastering a small grin on your face. "What can I get you?"

"I would like a cockta..."

"How about you doll?" the man asked, cutting off the woman and making her lips give a small pout. 

Turning your head up to the man you dropped your fake grin, "Try again." you told him.

Wrapping his arm around her waist he pulled her flush to him and smirked, "Come on girl, let me show you a good time." 

Shoving on his chest you growled, "I'm not interested. Now are you going to order or are you just going to sit around and waste my time."

Raising his lip in a snarl he grabbed her wrist "Don't get lippy girl." 

Feeling your temper flare you snatched your hand from him and went to walk away, "Go fuck yourself." you hissed but stopped short when something hit your back making you fall forward and let out a cry of pain. 

"Pathetic bitch." he said, tossing down the pool cue.

Panting you opened your eyes and looked down to see the cue beside you on the floor. Grabbing it you pushed yourself to stand and swung the cue through the air.

..............................

He had been sitting on the bench outside, smoking his cigar when he heard a feminine cry from inside the bar followed by the sound of something wooden hitting the ground. Feeling an odd sensation in his chest he stood and tapped out the cigar before quickly heading in. Opening the door he swept his eyes across the floor, when his eyes locked on his target he saw her swinging one of the pool cues, smacking the man in the legs and knocking his feet out from under him. Next thing he knew the others were rushing forward and y/n started trying to fight them all off. Hurrying over he saw one of the men swinging a knife towards her and quickly grabbed his hand, twisting it quickly and hearing it break. Throwing him down he witnessed as y/n punched the woman in the face, knocking her unconscious with one hit. Giving the other man a hard look he saw him back up and move to grab his friend. Before too long the whole bar was cleared out and he looked back to y/n to see her dropping the pool cue back on top of the table. Watching as she walked over to one of the chairs and sat down he took notice of her pained expression and frowned. "Are you alright?" he asked. 

Leaning over you placed your face in your hands and nodded, "I'm sorry." 

"Whatever for?" he asked. Moving towards her he noticed the stiffness of her back and curled his pointer finger under the hem of her shirt. Lifting it up some he felt her tense and saw her try to quickly sit up but he placed his other arm on her shoulder to still her. Tilting her head to look over the large purple welt across her lower back he grit his teeth, a growl rumbling in his throat. 

Blushing you pulled down your shirt and gently grabbed hold of his left forearm. "Thank you for helping me." 

Feeling a warming in his chest at her gentle touch he quickly cleared his throat and straightened his back. Pulling away his arm and hand he sighed, "Yes well I couldn't let them beat you too badly, how would we get back to your home tonight." he said and saw her give a tired grin before she was pushing herself to stand. 

Cleaning up the bar and explaining to Nina what had happened when she got back you were not surprised by the sheriff that showed up as you went to close. Gritting your teeth as he questioned everything that had happened and then your part of the story you backed up as he reached for you, saying he needed to see what had 'supposedly' started the fight. Thankfully Nina had quickly offered to show the man the video and he finally dropped his hand but stared at you longer than needed. 

He had sat in his normal seat as the two women spoke to the man who y/n had explained to him was kind of like a marine. The man who had to be in his late fifties looked at y/n with an unsettling look and from here he could hear how he seemed to question everything she said, asking if she was sure that was what really happened. When he reached out to grab her he noticed the woman take a step back and stiffen up. The male made her uncomfortable, that much was clear and as Nina spoke up he grit his teeth at how long the man remained staring over y/n. 

Once the sheriff had watched the video he had only grunted and told you that he would take care of it. Deciding not to push the matter only because you wanted to get as far away from him as possible you nodded and moved to lock up. Thankful Crocodile was here as the sheriff seemed to linger close to you. 

"I suspect you'll be going up the mountain tomorrow evening for that meteor shower?" he asked in a raspy voice. 

Humming you locked the door to the bar and quickly moved away from him and unconsciously more beside Crocodile. 

"Well you be careful, never know what might happen when you're up there all by yourself, when no one else is around." he said, his voice growing deeper. 

"She won't be alone." Crocodile growled, taking a step forward and staring down the man.

Smiling he looked up at the man, "I'm sorry I don't believe we have met. I'm Sheriff Jones and you are?"

Raising a brow at the man's outstretched hand he rose his chin, "Crocodile." 

"Like the dangerous reptile?" he huffed, dropping his hand.

Smiling he stared into the man's eyes, "Precisely." Seeing the man's smile drop he stood back straight and glanced down at y/n, his eyes softening, "Are you ready my dear?" he asked and saw  her nod.

"I'd be careful if I were you boy, that one there is trouble, ain't you girl?" he huffed with a smirk.

Seeing y/n's eyes drop he felt his rage taking over but knew if anything was done he would just cause her more trouble. So instead he smiled, "I tend to enjoy trouble and mayhem." the look on the man's face making him want to laugh. Walking her to her side of the truck he made sure she got in okay before walking around to his own, casting one last look at the sheriff before getting in. 

Driving away you finally let out a deep breath and licked your dry lips, "Thank you... for tonight and with him." you said in a soft voice just loud enough for him to hear.

Furrowing his brows he looked to her, "What did he mean by you were trouble?" he asked, ignoring her thanks.

Taking a deep breath you kept your eyes on the road. "I've had run ins with the law before, nothing too serious, stealing food and other little stuff like that, when I was younger. He has been the sheriff for years and we've never gotten along." you told him. 

He had  a feeling she didn't want to talk about this anymore right now so he let it go, he would try again another time. "So what is so special about this meteor shower?" he asked and saw her smile. 

"The Lyrid meteor shower. The best view is from the top of the mountain, you can see up to 18 meteors an hour." you told him.

Not being able to stop his grin at how much her eyes seemed to light up at the mention of the event he hummed. "And how exactly do we get up the mountain?" he asked. 

"Hike." you said and heard him grumble. "I'll buy you another cigar..." 

"Deal." he said and heard her giggle. 

..........................

"How did I let you talk me into this?" he asked in a deep voice as he walked with her up the mountain trail. 

"We are almost there." you smiled. 

"I should have asked for two cigars." he grumbled. 

"Hiking is good for your heart." you told him and only heard him huff. 

"So are pinto beans but that doesn't mean I am going to start eating them." he told her.

Grinning you scaled the last bit of trail and stood at the top of the mountain, looking out over the land below with a contempt smile. 

Looking over the landscape he had to admit it was rather peaceful. Following y/n to the flat area he saw her sit down and let out a sigh before he lowered himself down to sit on her left. 

Taking your book bag off you unzipped the pocket and held out his cigar, watching him smile as he took it, lighting the end and exhaling a cloud of smoke. Sitting a thermos of coffee beside him you saw him raise a brow but lift it up none the less. 

"Coffee?" 

"Figured it might help keep us warm." you shrugged. 

Yes it was fairly chilly up here but his thick fur coat kept him warm. Looking down at y/n he took notice of her wearing a simple pair of jeans, boots and her own jacket that wasn't all that thick. He wondered if she was cold. Seeing her drawing something in her sketch book he looked over her hands and noticed they were a bit pale. Biting his cigar he considered giving her his own coat but before he could say anything she gasped lightly and looked up as the first meteor shot across the sky. 

.................................

Watching the meteor shower with her, they both sat in a comfortable silence. She had drawn the event in her sketch pad perfectly and he had been amazed by her talent, having not seen her work before now. More often than not his eyes drifted down to her out of the corner of his eyes, finding her wondrous look more entertaining than the sky. He could see the reflections of light in her eyes and grinned, "Starlight." stiffening when he realized he had said it out loud.

Hearing him say 'Starlight' you broke your eyes from the sky and looked up instead into his two silver eyes, feeling a strong warmth radiate through your chest. Blinking you felt his finger brush yours, your heart beating like a hammer in your chest. When something red caught your eye you looked beside him to see smoke, red smoke. Furrowing your brows you sat up straight, "What is that?" you asked. 

Looking around them as the smoke encircled them both he snapped his head this way and that. What the hell?

"Crocodile?" you called as a harsh wind started blowing around you both, blocking off any sound. Going to stand you felt a shock of sorts on your hand as you tried to push through the smoke and let out a small yelp.

"Y/n!?" he yelled, wrapping his arm around her to pull her away from the smoke. Before another word could be said the ground was gone from under them and they were falling. 

Screaming you felt as he held you tightly, the wind blowing your hair wildly. 

There was a flash of light and then he landed hard on his back, letting out a small 'ooff' as y/n landed on top of his chest. 

Realizing the both of you were no longer falling you opened your eyes and looked at the wooden walls and floor. Feeling warmth beneath you you turned your head and blushed when you saw you were in fact laying on top of Crocodile. "I'm so sorry." you apologized, scrambling off of him. 

Pushing himself up he looked around the familiar place and then at the woman who was snapping her head around in all directions. Her bag and it's contents were scattered around them, the table and two chairs from before were there but the candle was no longer lit and the witch didn't appear to be here either.

"What just happened? Where are we? Crocodile..." you asked, your heart and breathing erratic. 

Holding up his hand he watched it turn to sand and smiled. He was back. 

Your eyes went wide when you saw his hand and wrist turn to sand. Suddenly it all sunk in and you couldn't breath. Crawling over to your bag you started shoving things inside. "Oh no. No, no, no, no!" you yelled. Zipping it up you stood. "This can't be happening." you mumbled. Looking around the small, dusty room you started jumping, "Hello? Smoke stuff you can take me back now. I don't belong here." you said to the air, looking down at your feet and hoping to see the red smoke start up again. 

Standing he looked around the room before looking back to y/n when he heard her panicked voice. Walking over to her he grabbed her shoulder to stop her from jumpping. When two scared blue eyes looked up to him he  furrowed his brows. 

"Why isn't it working? Why did I get brought back with you?" you asked him in a soft, scared voice.

"I don't know." he told her. 

Shaking your head you swallowed hard, "I can't be here." you whispered.

"It will be alright..."

"How can you say that? I'm stuck here with nothing, I don't even know where we..."

"If you recall, I was the same way when I came to your world." he said quickly, his voice deep. Still seeing worry in her eyes he sighed and rubbed her shoulder with his thumb, "Now it seems it is my turn to repay the same kindness you offered me." 

Shaking your head you kept looking in his eyes as it made you feel a little better. "I didn't ask for this, I didn't expect anyth..."

"I know." Softening his eyes he looked to her, "Will you trust me?" he asked. When she nodded he let out a sigh, his chest being filled with pride. "I will not let anything happen to you, you have my word." he said in a deep voice. Standing back straight he looked around the shack, finding the door.  Leading her to it he twisted the knob and then peeked out to see the street mostly empty, the sky just as dark as the night he left. "Come on, you stay by me alright." he said and saw her nod again as they walked away from the hut. Peeking back he saw no sign in the front yard like there had been and furrowed his brows but said nothing. Placing his hand on her lower back he led her towards the inn he had been going to that night, hoping Bonez was still there. 

#sir crocodile #Sir Crocodile x reader #Crocodile x reader #one piece #one piece fanfiction #Soulmate AU

[roronoa-swords]

Cop and Thief

Smoker x Portgas D. Ace

Fandom: One Piece

Genre: Smut with a lil angst

Timeline: Modern AU!

Pairing: Smoker x Ace

Request: For Op-Law from wattpad. You can also find this story there under the name Da3Stuges. I share an account with two other amazing authors💚

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"This is the second time Portgas. When are you going to learn that doing arson is illegal?" A white haired male snarled with an irritated look on his face.

"C'mon Smokey, when are you gonna lighten up a bit? It's the 21st century, stop being so...old." The man named 'Portgas' said as he laid his head on the table.

Smoker let out a deep sigh before he uncuffed the man. "Just-...." The older man breathed. "Just get outta my sight Portgas. If I see you in here again, you're gonna regret it."

"Oh I'm soooo scared!" He mocks. "See you later old man!" The ravenette said as he ran out of the police station. Smoker's assistant, Tashigi only stood in pure, agitated disbelief.

"Why do you keep letting him go Sergeant Smoker? He's only gonna cause more trouble, not only for you, but for the entire GPD! We have to go get him!" The navy haired woman with red glasses perched on top of her head complained.

Smoker sighed. He was asked -and told- the same thing every single time. Smoker waved her off.

"Stand down Tashigi. Portgas acts like any other old reckless youngster, there is no need to get rash." Sergeant Smoker seriously needed a break. He already gained a headache trying to apprehend Portgas. He didn't need this extra addition. But, it seems Tashigi didn't get the memo.

"But sir! Portgas D. Ace is the eldest of the infamous ASL brothers! Those three terrorize any store they find! And just for food?!?! He's also allies with Whitebeard and Roger! He needs to be apprehended immediately before his entire posse raid this whole town!" The woman screeched as she tried to get her point across.

"I said stand down cadet!" He barked. "I am aware of Portgas' affiliations, I am aware of his younger brothers, and I am very much aware of the consequences of him continuing to run free." It's like the people in this damned department didn't understand.

"Please stop rambling nonsense around my head and move on from this subject. To be quite frank, I'm done with Portgas and his case. So if you want to capture him so bad, why don't you go and do it?" Smoker sneered as he has gotten fed up with Tashigi and her screeching.

"But Sergeant Smoker-.." She tried to reason but never got to finish her sentence. Smoker upped and left the room.

"Damned people. I don't know how many times they want me to repeat the same words over and over again." He grumbled as he stomped his way to his office.

"That damn brat is growing on me. Without him, these calls won't be challenging at all."

He sighed, entering his office. Sitting down on the slightly worn out chair, he gazed upon his achievements that were mounted on the wall.

'Soon, I won't have a job if I keep this up.' He thought with a sigh. This whole situation was troublesome.

Suddenly, a knock was heard.

"Enter." The tired male spoke. He waited to see who would be on the other side of his door. Surprisingly, it was Monkey D. Garp, the retired chief of police. Smoker stood up, as a sign of respect.

"G-Garp-San," He hesitated. "To what do I owe this visit? More so, why have you came to visit me?" Smoker was puzzled. Why was the greatest chief of police that ever resided in this town, here in his office?

Garp stood as strong as ever. Dressed down in his white button up and some white dress pants.

"Well, Sergeant," Garp began. " a little birdy...more-so...your assistant Tashigi, seemed to be in distress. I asked her, and she told me that you keep letting a certain freckled faced fellow go." Smoker kept his composure, but inwardly groaned. That woman could never keep her mouth shut.

"Mind explaining why you are releasing my grandson only to capture him again later on?" Garp questioned as he looked at Smoker with curious amusement.

Smoker stayed silent. It wasn't that he didn't know how to answer the question, it was more of him in denial.

"To be honest with you Chief...I'm not sure why I do that." He said scratching the back of his neck. A sign that Garp picked up from past visits, indicating he was nervous.

"Portgas brings...life to the chases we do-" Smoker paused. "him and his brothers." He continues. "So taking them in would diminish all the fun." Garp stared at him for a minute before answering.

"But you do know that even if they do rob stores for food, they have very strong and dangerous allies." He stated. "Ace with Whitebeard and Roger, Sabo with Dragon, and Luffy with Shanks. Not to mention they have their own crews. For example, Luffy and his Straw hat brats." Garp concluded as fixed Smoker with a stare.

"Though I am assuming- and hoping that this isn't the case-" Garp straightens to his full height. "Could it be that you are starting to harbor feelings for the brat?" Garp asked.

The male in question thought about the elders statement. 'Do I like Portgas? No....no I can't do that. There's no way. Unless...?' Smoker thought as he racked through his brain for answers.

Garp sighed. "Well, I've got to go. Even though they are criminals, they're still my grandkids. However, they are gonna get a rude awakening when I return back home from the holidays." He said with a menacing smile as he cracked his knuckles. He looked at Smoker then smirked at him before exited out of his office.

'That was weird.' The white haired male said as he lit up a cigar. He sat down and took a puff. He sighed out a breath as he wondered.

'What am I going to do?'

(Ace's POV)

"LUFFY! ACE! LET'S GO!" Sabo shouted. We just raided one of our favorite restaurants. We dodged a couple of frying pans, cutting boards, and a few stray eating utensils along the way. We finally arrive to our usual little hiding spot. We're here just until things die down, then we normally make our way home. Fuck I'm tired. I focus on catching my breath as Luffy starts laughing.

"Shishishi~ I got all the meat!" My idiot of a little brother exclaims.

"Lies! I got some meat too- and I aint sharing so don't give me that face." I said as my straw hat wearing brother pouts.

"You idiots argue for the most simplest things," Sabo rolled his eyes. "it's unbelievable sometimes." He sighed as he looked down in embarrassment.

"WHO YOU CALLING AN IDIOT, BARBIE DOLL?!?" I snap.

"EH!? YOU WANNA FIGHT?!" Sabo shouts back. Oh ho hooo I am not backing down bitch.

"BRING IT ON YOU SMURF!"

Sabo and I were head to head and I could see the electricity between us. "Shishishi~ usually it's me and Ace or Ace and Smokey." Luffy said as he munched on a bag of chips.

"Speaking of Smokey, he always catches you and then lets you go 5 hours later. Wanna explain?" Sabo said as he looked at me with a smirk on his face. I felt my cheeks heat up as I look the other way.

"There's nothing to explain. He catches me, we talk, then he lets me go. Nothing else." I mumbled, hoping Sabo wouldn't press into the situation more.

"Judging by your face I think you have some attraction for him." Apparently, he didn't get the hint or he got it and just didn't care.

"Ugh just drop it Sabo. Even if I DID like him there is absolutely NO POSSIBLE WAY Oyaji or that old bastard would approve." I sulk.

Sabo walks up to me and grabs my shoulders. "Wouldn't approve of what? You being gay?"

"Hmm? Oh, No, I told them my preference before and they didn't have a problem. I think they wouldn't approve because of who I chose to like. Remember," I sigh. "He's a cop. I'm a thief. Not to mention my stupid old man. It isn't gonna work."

I turn away from him as my shoulders droop. 'Besides..I think he likes that little assistant of his...despite how annoying she is.' I thought as a I succumb to my inner thoughts.

"Eh, Ace, I know you're worried about their opinion, but, if you really like him, you gotta face your fears and tell him. Rejection is always better than regret." Luffy said with a serious expression.

Sabo and I looked at him shocked. He tilts his head in confusion. 'Luffy....has a brain?' I stare at him.

"What? Is there something on my face?" He picks his nose.

'Well nevermind he's back to being an idiot.' I sweatdrop.

"Well, we should get going. Thatch needs to cook the food." Sabo said and as soon as he did, Luffy and I race back to the house.

"Hey! Wait for me! Guys!" I hear Sabo shout.

~timeskip brought to you by Marco chasing Ace around in a pineapple tank top~

"Why...did you guys..run of like that?" Sabo panted as he finally caught up with us.

"You've gotten slow Sabo..need to fix that." I say as I smirk mischievously at him. He pales at my sentence and begins to mumble something before Luffy's voice is heard, shouting so the whole block hears him. "WE'RE HOME!"

He then turns towards us, "Let's go, I want FOOODD!" and dashes inside.

Sabo and I stare at him for a second before his words fully register in my mind. "DON'T EAT ALL THE MEAT LUFFY!" I shout. I dash inside, leaving Sabo in the dust.

"Thatch! Marco! Oyaji! How are you guys?" I ask as we all sit at the table. Well Oyaji stood, but that doesn't make much of a difference.

"We're fine." Thatch hummed, "-but mind telling why you got captured today?" he questions as he glances behind him, amused.

"Oh, um...how'd you know about that?" I laugh nervously with an uneasy feeling in my chest.

"Gurararara~ We know everything around here, brat. Did you forget already?" Oyaji says, with his signature laugh.

I facepalm because of my stupidity. 'Of course Oyaji would know the smoking Sargeant.'

"Shishishi~ Ace got captured by Smokey! But their fight was..weird." Luffy's shine like literal stars as Thatch sets a plate full of meat in front of him. "Weird like how yoi?" Marco spoke, leaning on the table with a lazy smirk.

"They were saying weird stuff to each other. Like when Ace said that if Smokey has this much energy fighting, how much energy would he have in-" Luffy didn't get to finish before I shoved a piece of meat in his mouth. "OKAYY," I chuckle nervously, "we don't need to hear anymore a that, right Sabo?" I force a smile, praying that Sabo would be on my side.

Sabo looks at me before smirking. 'Oh no'

"I don't know, Ace...you were kinda..touchy with him today." He teased. "Any reason why?" I look at him with the most hateful gaze ever, but he just brushes it off. 'Damnit Sabo! You're gonna make Oyaji kill him you overgrown barbie doll!'

Everyone at the table looked at me with a face of interest. Even Izo, Vista and Haruta.

'When the hell did they get here?'

The only one who didn't had a readable expression was Oyaji. 'Fuck...he's gonna kill me'

"Were you flirting- with Sergeant Smoker, Ace?" Izo questioned me with a large smirk on his rose colored lips. Before I even had the chance to answer, the overgrown, knock-off barbie doll on the right of me spoke up.

"Flirting? It was like watching sex happen in front of my eyes-" He didn't get to finish as I slammed my fist on top of his head.

"Damnit Sabo! Are you trying to get me killed?!" I yelled as I stood up from my seat, meat on my plate forgotten.

"I mean you needed a push and I'm there to help." He winced as he rubbed the top of his head. Before I said anything, I was cut of again.

'Why the fuck do I keep getting interrupted!? I'm running out of patience.'

"Ace.." Oyaji started as he looked at me with a glare, some haki leaking through. "Are you interested in this...Sergeant?" He finished. The whole table went down in silence and Sabo looks away from me, I don't have to look at him to know he feels full of guilt.

"No Oyaji.....what gave you that idea?" I say, not looking at Oyaji in the eye.

"Ace..you know that relationship will not work. He's a Sergeant, a cop," He emphasizes. "...and you. You're a thief." He says firmly, staring into my being.

"Your relationship is gonna end up in two ways. One, he continues to set you free after every chase and loses his rank- or worse, his job-"

'I don't want to be the reason he loses his job.' I clench my fist.

"Or two, you get caught and thrown in jail." Oyaji speaks. I know what he's saying. I know what he's trying to get into my head.

"Either he's gone or your life is over."

'I know the risks....I know I don't have a chance. But why does it hurt so much hearing it from you, Oyaji?'

I thought as I bit my bottom lip.

"Honestly," He grunts. "I don't care who you date. Your father, however, is the problem." I tch. That stupid old man.

"You know he has issues trusting the police. Ever since the incident with your mother." He continued. "Of course she's alive and well, but he almost lost her, Ace. He almost lost you.

I put my head down in shame.

'I knew it. They wouldn't approve. They wouldn't accept it. Damn it.'

"I know that Oyaji..that's why I said I don't like him you know." I bark a laugh. It sounded so mechanic that Luffy had stopped eating.

"...Sabo and Luffy were just messing with me." I say flashing a pained smile, a vain attempt to seem unfazed.

"Ace.." Thatch calls. I don't answer.

"Well, that settles that. I'm going to be in my room. I'm not hungry." I slide the plate over in between Sabo and Luffy, signaling that they can have my share.

I walk out of the dining room and head to my room. 'Nothing is ever fair anymore.'

I open the door to my room and slam it closed, locking it behind me. I huff. For fuck's sake.

'I need to cool down...I don't need another lecture from Marco about burning holes into my bedroom walls again.'

Shuffling around in my room, trying to calm down- though I'm unsuccessful-, something clicks.

What if....?

I rush and throw on a shirt. I don't bother to button it up cause why not. Opening my window and climbing out, I breathe in slight anticipation.

'Maybe he's on duty tonight...'

(Sabo's POV)

I watch Ace leave the dining room with a hurt look in his eyes. 'I over did it.' I can't help but think. Pops sighs before he took a sip of his sake.

"I know the brat likes that Sergeant and frankly, I would like to see them together, but Roger wouldn't allow it."

Ah, speaking of the devil. Said man enters the house with Aunt Rouge and Uncle Rayleigh following behind him.

'Just how many people live here?' I sweatdropped.

"Ahaaa Newgate! Pass over the sake you old geezer!" Roger exclaimed, dismissing the tense atmosphere in the room. 'He either doesn't notice it, or he notices and doesn't care. Probably the latter.'

"Gurararara~ Go get your own, this one's mine." Pops said as he hogged up the rest of the sake on the table.

"Aww cmon, you drinked the rest of the booze ya old bastard." Roger complained as he took a seat next to Pops.

"For an old man he really asks like a kid yoi." Marco mumbles. "Tell me about it, and I'm married to him." Aunt Rouge added as she put two fingers on the bridge of her nose.

"Oiii!" Roger exclaimed with a pout. 'He really is a man baby'

"Roger.. Rouge.. there is something we need to...discuss." Pops says as his smile drops.

Sensing the tension in the room, Roger stopped smiling and gave a blank stare. "About what Newgate?" He questioned. "It's about Ace." Pops said.

As if the room dropped below freezing point, Roger gave Pops a ice cold stare as his haki started to leak out.

"What happened to my son?" He asked as he stood up. Marco and Thatch stood next to Pops just in case something happens.

'Now I see why Ace doesn't tell you things, Roger. You're overprotective.' I thought as I made my way over to Luffy.

"Nothing happened to him Roger..." Oyaji paused. "He's just.....experiencing feelings for someone, is all." Pops concluded.

Roger visibly relaxed and smiled "Then what's the problem? You got me all tense for nothing!" He exclaimed as he laugh, but Pops only chuckled. "Ah but wait, he's interested in an officer. Down at the GPD, there's a smokey Sergeant that's caught Ace's attention." Pops said

Roger's smile disappeared and was replaced with an angry scowl almost immediately.

"Absolutely not. There's NO WAY I'm letting my only son date an officer. After what they did to us?! No way." He said as he threw his hands up. Roger only looked away in anger and slight disbelief.

"If I may ask...what happened exactly yoi?" Marco questioned. Though, this is the first time I've seen Marco flinch when someone answered his questions.

'Now I reallyyyy understand why Ace don't tell him anything.'

"When Rouge was pregnant with Ace, I was on the run from the government. I was caught and my execution was planned, but they didn't go through with it." He started. "Because it was unsafe, Rouge was forced to hold Ace for 20 months. Thus causing his birth to be heavily delayed. When it was time for Rouge to give birth, I broke out of the prison they kept me in."

As Roger talked, I could feel the raw hatred, and bits of Haki begin to pour out into the room. ~To be continued~

#anime #portgas d ace #gol d. roger #smoker #modern au #straw hat luffy

[droplet-dread-cat]

the fourth

Tags: Physically Strong Nami, canon divergence, this wasn’t supposed to be a fic but here we are, Nami-centric, I love her

She becomes a member of Arlong’s crew when she’s a little kid, months after she saw him take her mother’s life right in front of her eyes. Nami is accepted maybe a bit too readily, in hindsight. It’s not only for her maps why Arlong wants her but also because she’s painfully human, a tiny girl amongst grown fishmen. A ragdoll he can beat up easily when he’s drunk and sees a light brown head of hair instead of orange - when the faces of two girls overlap until there’s only Koala left. The brat who was responsible for Fisher Tiger’s death.

Nami endures, mainly because she has no other choice. She is thrown, hit, slapped, burned and held under water until she nearly passes out. She is ten, eleven, twelve years old and all she can do is endure the pain. Somewhere in her heart, she thought Arlong would become less cruel with time. Maybe, she’d thought, he’d slowly accept her as a true crewmember of the Arlong Pirates. She draws maps for him, she goes on robbing missions for him - but, on top of it all, she bleeds for him. She bleeds... never stops bleeding and hurting for the killer of her mother.

And Arlong never treats her better. No, he’s becoming worse. The beatings are getting harsher the longer Nami’s a part of this scheme. She’s at 10 million beri, a tenth of what she needs to buy Cocoyashi. (Nami wonders if Arlong’s going to let her buy it. He’s a bastard. He’s the worst... so why should he bother keeping his word?) However, at this point, she doesn’t know if she survives long enough to even make it till 20 million. Her whole body is a mess of blue and black. Every time she wakes she’s barely able to heave herself up and when she does so too fast she runs the risk of vomiting all over her bedroom floor. She doesn’t want to worry the doctor – he’s a good man and she’s a... she’s a bad person. She doesn’t deserve his kindness anyways.

But she needs to do something – everything – to keep going. Everything to ensure she gets back her village. Everything to come out of this ordeal alive. She’ll never forget Bellmere’s sacrifice and dying without putting up a fight would be a dishonour to the woman who’d taken her in. Nami starts out slow. She buys a bo staff. In all honesty, she’d probably done so even without the constant threat of Arlong accidentally bashing her head in. Maybe she’d have trained a little bit, not too much to put on serious muscle mass because she always wanted to have a body like Nojiko’s or her mother’s – feminine, toned but not too athletic. She’s thirteen, empty-eyed and hurting all over... and she thinks: “I can’t be like them.” They’re not fighters (Bellmere hasn’t fought in a long time before Arlong’s arrival) but she is. Nami’s life tells her she isn’t made to be curvy and feminine. She isn’t made to wear dresses and skirts. Instead, she was made for battle. Her body’s not a temple, it’s a bastion. It has to be.

She neither parts from her V-cut t-shirts nor from her girlish haircut. Those are the two things she’s able to keep. Nami begins wearing leggings or boys’ shorts while swinging her staff in the silence of Cocoyashi’s nights. The night time is when she can refine her swings and build her muscles. Nami’s thirteen and fourteen.

Slowly, she puts on weight. The good kind of weight. The kind of weight that lets her absorb blows and anchors her feet to the ground. They’re clad in boots light enough to run in, but nothing fancy. No impractical heel that could make her stance weaver. She has abs and muscular upper arms. When she looks at herself in the mirror, she’s both proud and strangely sad for the person she’ll never be. In another universe, she’d have had a pinup girl’s frame. Now only the curves of her breasts and hips show that she’s a girl. Even her face has lost its cuteness. She’s raw, she’s stronger than she’d ever been; she can withstand Arlong’s drunken hits... And she starts wanting to strike back. She’s sixteen, seventeen and simultaneously collecting money for Arlong and training to kill him – to rob him of his existence just as he’d done with her mom. Nojiko’s looks towards her are indecipherable. Nami doesn’t know if she wants to know their meaning.

Nami’s seventeen when she hits back for the first time.

She loses. Badly.

There’s a large scar on her forearm. If she’d been a bit less muscular, she’d have come back with one arm less. Nami doesn’t stop trying, though.

At eighteen years old, she’s tried to kill her boss 66 times. None of those attempts have truly done any good. She starts to grow tired... tired of living like that. When she isn’t running towards Arlong with yet another new bo staff in her rough hands, she’s tricking pirates into accepting her as their crewmate. Then she betrays them for their money. She doesn’t feel remorse but the faces of those men are haunting her dreams. There’s blood on her hands. The deal between Arlong and her still stands and he luckily has always just laughed at her “fierceness” instead of punishing her for it. She nearly has the 100 million. (She’ll try it this way... although there’s a voice inside her head telling her not to be so damn naive.)

She comes across Luffy and Zoro and then Usopp and finally... Sanji.

“Wow! What a strong beauty you are, madam! A rose for you and I’ll of course give a discount to such a stunning lady as you!” Something in Nami breaks a tiny bit. Perhaps it’s her heart. She still remembers how she’d bitten her lip to stop herself from crying when she realized she’ll never look like Nojiko or Bellmere. She remembers a thirteen year old girl who’s sworn herself to become stronger to survive.

“Thank you.” she says and smiles brightly to cover her surprise. Sanji finds her attractive. It shouldn’t matter but it does. He’s... charming and even though she could never imagine herself loving him romantically, he’ll hold a special place in her heart nonetheless. (That’s why Sanji beating up Luffy on Whole Cake Island hurts her so much. Because they’re both so goddamn special to her. Luffy is the boy who saved her from Arlong but Sanji’s the one who saved her from the poor image of herself.)

She steals a ship.

Arlong betrays her. (Of course he does.)

Nami kneels on the ground. She has had enough. She grabs her knife and stabs her tattoo – over and over and over again. She curses his name. She... cries. She’s eighteen and she feels broken and bone tired.

A straw hat lands on her head. “Save me” she whispers.

“OF COURSE I WILL!” the only one she’ll ever willingly call captain answers.

Nami’s eighteen when Arlong Park falls to the hands of her friends. She’s eighteen and she’s strong but apparently not strong enough to... “Stop.” Zoro flicks her head. “Stop thinking you’re weak when you’re not.”

“But I couldn’t beat him.”

“Of course you couldn’t.” It hurts to hear that. Of course she couldn’t have... another flick to her head. She looks at Zoro. Zoro looks back. “You had no teacher who could have taught you how to fight, right? You had no-one, didn’t you? Why would you think you could go up against Arlong – who came from the Grandline – without someone teaching you how? Why would you think you could beat the other fishmen when you were having a mental breakdown? Of course you couldn’t. That’s why we did it instead. You’re nakama and you’re at least ten times stronger than Usopp” “Hey!” Usopp cries but is ignored, “but you don’t have a proper technique. That’s why I’m gonna teach you.” Zoro smirks.

“You’ll teach me?” Nami murmurs, absorbing the rest of the swordsman’s words. He’s... right. She never had a teacher. Of course she wouldn’t be able to beat Arlong that way. She swallows, nods. “I’d like that.” she says, voice sounding small.

“Good. I wouldn’t have accepted a no.”

Nami’s eighteen and she learns how to fight for real. She becomes a monster. She wants to be. Nami’s eighteen and she’s a navigator; she’s strong and muscular, she fights alongside Luffy, Zoro and Sanji. She wields a bo staff – one that soon contains the weather itself – and she’ll unlock armament haki. But she’s nineteen when she does and that’s another story altogether.

For now, Nami’s eighteen and she’s strong and... she’s happy.

#nami #one piece #op fic #one piece fanfiction #Strong Nami AU #Michinokao #arlong #arlong park

[inupibaldspot]

Savior : Chapter 10

"Stop! What's that?" The man who had a rifle in his hand asked.

Currently the team were in Grey Terminal. This started when they were talking about food and suddenly Ace started talking about the food they get inside the gate beyond Grey Terminal.

Now they were all staked up, wearing a cloak dragging a covered dead crocodile as a way to get through the inspection and inside their desired place.

"It's crocodile leather for sale." Ace said. He then removed the cloth on the crocodile to prove his statement.

The gate keeper flinched back in surprise. "Go ahead." He said.

After that they were able to go inside but as soon as they entered Emilia noted that a rather large amount of people were surrounding the entrance. Obviously thieves that were trying to rob the goods.

"It seems that you're carrying a valuable thing there." One of the men carrying a stick said. "How about you leave it here."

Other men also started surrounding them while laughing.The man who first talked to them boldly approached them. "Oi! Say something."

"Shut up, you small fry." Ace said without hesitation. Luffy who was at the bottom  of the pile then swung his iron pipe, (which male trio were carrying)making the man fall.

"Before you rob..." Ace started as he pulled the cloak revealing themselves. "You should choose your targets wisely."

After revealing themselves, the thieves immediately recognised them and took a step back.The children without hesitation jumped and started attacking.

Emilia was the only one without the iron pipe.She rather wanted to see how strong her armament haki was.

Emilia punched the guy in front of her without a second thought. This made the guy being thrown  near by, making a hole on the wall .

Emilia sweat dropped mentally noteing to not use it against normal people. After not even 5 minutes of fighting, they had beaten all the guys and started dressing up again.

.........

Emilia stared at the shop keeper in front of her currently out of their disguise. "Huh? 20,000 Beli? Uncle, you can clearly see that this one is pure leather."

"Yes. That is why I'm buying it for 20,000. It's a rather great deal of you ask me." The shop keeper said trying to trick the small girl.

"I'm pretty sure this won't be any less than 60,000 Beli and I offered that for 50,000." Emilia said crossing her hands not budging.

Ace,Sabo and Luffy had no idea how to do this stuff and left it entirely on Emilia.At first they were happy that they could sell it for 20,000 but when Emilia mentioned the real cost, they couldn't be more happy to have her who knows the values of stuff since she does a lot of reading.

"I see..." Emilia sighed.

The shop keeper smiled. Even though she know the cost of her products , she is nothing more than a child after all.

"I guess I'll sell it in another shop." Emilia said turning back. "Let's go, you guys."

"W-wait!" The shop keeper said. "I....I'll buy it."

Emilia smiled.

..........

"They paid us a good price for the crocodile ." Sabo said. "More money for our pirate savings."

"Yeah!" Ace agreed in a low tone since they were still in disguise. "Thanks Emilia."

"I was quite nervous since it was my first time negotiating." Emilia said.

"I'm hungry." Luffy who was at the very bottom, complained.

"Just wait." Ace replied. "You'll get to eat some delicious ramen soon."

"Ramen? What's that?" Sabo questioned. "Is it that delicious."

"I don't care,let's hurry up and eat." Luffy said.

Soon they came in front of a rather large building and entered it.

"Welcome." The man,probably the chef greeted but stopped them after seeing their unpleasant  appearance. "W-wait, you can't come in our restaurant!"

Sabo then showed a golden circular thing and said. "I want a private room."

After that the man jumped back and bowed, quickly showing them their room.

"Four bowls of Ramen! Sorry for the wait." The waitress greeted and then left.

"So this is ramen?" Sabo asked quickly followed by "It looks delicious" by Luffy.

Emilia eyes also glowed as she stared at the food in front of her.She never tasted ramen after coming to this world after all.

All of them started eating and soon finished and again ordered.Emilia was full from her second plate and didn't eat from them on.

"Emilia you're not eating anymore?" Ace asked.

"No...I'm full." Emilia replied.She really wonder how did these boys eat so much and was still so skinny.

"Then can I have your share?" Luffy asked as he ate.

" Go ahead."

They kept on ordering again and again that Emilia had started feeling bad for the staff.

"Excuse me." The waitress knocked bringing new set of bowls. But then Luffy who was distracted stretched his hand and reached out for the bowl making the waitress squeal in horror .

"Oh..." Emilia who witnessed the scene smiled. "We should go now that our cover is blown."

"Wait let me eat some more." Luffy said as he continued eating.

Not even a minute later the door opened . "Sir,please explain..."

"Run!" Sabo said as all of them rushed towards the window, breaking it and then jumped.

"The ramen was delicious." Sabo said as he was falling.

"I told you." Ace replied.

"I should try making it as well." Emilia said.

"I can't wait!" Luffy exclaimed.

You can imagine how other people saw this scene where children who were falling were talking mid-air calmly.

They then safely landed and started bolting.

"Stop! Some one catch them!" One of the sheriffs who spotted them shouted.

"Is that you,Sabo?! Wait!" One of the man who they ran pass by started shouting. "You were alive!"

Sabo stopped and looked back along with Emilia,Ace and Luffy.

"Sabo,that man's calling for you!" Ace said.

"Who is that?" Luffy questioned.

Emilia then realised who that man and where Sabo was from.She put all the pieces in place from when Sabo talked about nobles,certain time which showed Sabo was well educated, had a noble's belonging and now a man was calling out for him.However she didn't comment.

"He must be mistaken.Lets go"

......

They were currently back in the forest and as soon as they reached a safe distance Ace and Luffy started interrogating Sabo.

"What..Im not hiding anything." Sabo said, as he was backed in a corner.

"Really?" Luffy said,oblivious already believing him.

"It's obvious he is hiding something!" Ace shouted. "Are you really keeping going to keep a secret from us?!"

"I told you already...I'm not hiding anything." Sabo looked away clearly a sign of lying.

"Talk already or I'll make you talk."Ace and Luffy grabbed Sabo and then started 'a forceful interrogration'.

"Sabo." Emilia called out making the boys stop fighting momentarily. "It's fine to reveal it. I'm sure they'll understand."

"Emilia, you already knew about it?!" Luffy questioned.

"No.I just found it out myself in the town." Emilia quickly denied.

Sabo then nodded and started explaining his story.

"Ehhhh?! A noble's son." Ace and Luffy questioned in unison. "....who is?"

"Me!!!" Sabo shouted.

Ace and Luffy then shoved their pinky finger deep in their nose. "So?"

"You guys were the ones who asked it." Emilia said, sweat dropping at the scene suddenly remembering Garp. Seriously this family....

"I'm not an orphan and both my parents are alive." Sabo explained. "And the man who we saw today is my father."

The other trio just stared quietly waiting for the blond haired boy to continue. "I'm sorry for lying to you." Sabo apologised looking down.

"You apologied so I forgive  you." Luffy said crossing his arms. Emilia looked at Luffy smiling. This child is always so pure, always giving out love attracting people to him along the way.

"Honesty I'm shocked " Ace said turning his back and facing the sea "Why would you do this if you're a noble's son?"

"I ran away from home...." Sabo started remembering his childhood memories when he was with his parents "...because they only care about money and status but not me. I had to study all day since if I am unable to marry a girl from a royal family, I'll be considered  crap."

Emilia stared at the boy in front of her. She had been lucky to be born into a loving family so she can't completely understand Sabo but then she can't help but feel saddened for him.

"For that family I was a nuisance.Sorry if I offend you, but even though I had parents I felt lonely!" Sabo shouted. "People in Grey Terminal were not like the nobles ,but for me I liked it better there."

"I see...Now I understand." Ace stated.

Sabo then stood up now smiling. "We'll definitely set sail and leave this country. I wanna know this world and then write a book on my adventures!"

"I don't mind studying navigation. I'll be stronger and then become a pirate!" Sabo shouted arms in the air. This caused all of them to smile.

" I know, you don't have to tell me that." Ace started "I'll become a pirate and keep on fighting, until I'm the most famous! That's the way I'll prove my existence. "

"I don't care if those bastards don't acknowledge my existence or how much they hate me...I'll  become a great pirate and I'll face them." Ace shouted with determination in his eyes. " I won't run away from anyone, I won't lose against anyone neither will  I be afraid of anyone. Everyone will know my name!"

When Ace said these words a wave of emotion rushed through Emilia. She didn't know how to describe it. She felt proud at the same time she felt un easy. But one thing sure was that she really wanted to see Ace grow more.Staying with him and the others made her really attached to them.

This world at first was just a fiction but now this has become a reality. And all the times they have spend together is real.

Luffy who was next to her, laughed and then rushed forward. "I'll find One Piece and then become the Pirate King!!!"

"Huh?!" Both Ace and Sabo exclaimed as Luffy just laughed.

"I have no idea what your saying...You just talk nonsense" Ace said scratching his head while Sabo just laughed.

Emilia then walked forward and looked at the sea.

"My dream is..." She started talking as she turned and  faces them. " to make sure you guys keep your promises and do my best to support them."

The boys all had a questioning face but soon started fighting about who will be the captain (again ) as Emilia looked at them with a smile.

She really was happy.

#one piece #one piece imagine #one piece imagines #one piece x reader #one piece sabo #ace #ace x reader #portgas d ace #one piece ace #ace imagine #luffy

[verrottweil]

like fuel to the fire

Monkey D. Luffy has been assigned to be Rob Lucci's intern at Kobe port's customs. What follows is Lucci's slow descent into /feelings/.

Chapter 1

Read on AO3.

.

Eight minutes before the alarm on his phone goes off, Lucci stirs awake and snaps his eyes open. The Maersk Elgin’s docking at five thirty and he needs to be at the harbor’s Rokko terminal at least half an hour beforehand to prepare the inspection. It’s pitch black in his bedroom aside from the streetlight falling in from the window. He sits upright, stretches his arms out above him, gets the crick out of his neck and throws the sheets off his legs, almost knocking the white roll pillow off the foot-end.

Lucci switches the lamp on his nightstand on. He squints bleary-eyed against the yellowish-white glare, hauling a hand through his unruly mop of hair and scratching the base of his neck, fingertips reaching past the neckline of the tank top he sleeps in.

His bedroom is sparsely furnished due to a lack of space. Lucci lives in a two-story building down some small, crowded neighborhood about a twenty-minute drive away from port where he works as a customs officer; but there’s a hospital nearby, and a park with a basketball court that’s always deserted in the evenings. He grabs his phone, gets out of bed and heads on down to the kitchen. Blinking the last sleep from his eyes, Lucci looks disheveled in just a pair of boxer shorts and a tank top.

Summers are hot and humid even at night, and aside from the constant hum of the air-conditioner and the shuffle of his bare feet, it’s dead-quiet inside the house.

With the sound of the coffee machine on the background chasing away the silence, Lucci rounds the kitchen counter, opens his fridge and grabs a glass jar of jam and bagged pastries. There’s a detailed drawing of a rabbit on the paper bag: the local bakery’s logo. After a quick breakfast, he drinks his strong cup of coffee in peace, scrolling down the news on his phone, sweeps the crumbs off his plate into the paper bag, gets up and slides the glass door open to the patio. Outside, the temperature’s bearable and the air’s not too clammy yet.

There’s a decently-sized dovecote mounted against the wall, made from pinewood. A pigeon’s low and steady cooing can be heard from the inside.

Lucci softly knocks on the wood and when he hears the rustle of feathers, he starts to strew the crumbs over the ledge, clicking his tongue to draw the pigeon out. The bird’s name is Hattori. Over five years ago, Lucci found the pigeon as a helpless, young squab in a broken nest on the ground and decided to raise it by himself.

The sound of cicadas dooms up from his neighbor’s backyard behind the garden wall, but he barely pays heed to the noise. He checks if there’s still enough water in the bottle holder to last Hattori for the day.

Back inside the house, Lucci continues his morning routine. With the grace of a large cat on the prowl, he silently trudges up the steps of the staircase and makes a beeline for the bathroom, which interior is much like the rest of the house: modern, monochrome and sleek. He does a hundred pushups on the bathroom floor and takes a quick, cold shower.

After toweling himself dry and combing his unruly, wet mane, Lucci attentively studies his reflection in the rectangular mirror above the washing table, searching for stubborn hairs in his brows and goatee, set of tweezers in hand, and brushes his teeth.

He unceremoniously dumps the wet towel and his sweaty underwear into the laundry hamper, the wicker lid falling back shut with a curt bang. Quickly steps into a pair of designer boxer-briefs and pulls them up over his ass, so the white elastic band spelling out Emporio fits snug around his hipbones. ‘Dress to impress’ has been a motto Lucci adhered to since his early teens.

Most of his wardrobe consists of designer suits, quality clothing, patent leather dress shoes and fancy loafers, but in his opinion, an expensive taste’s well worth the price. It’s something he acquired from his uncle.

Lucci was orphaned at a young age and since he didn’t have any relatives who were financially able to raise him back in Italy, he got sent off to Tokyo, where his uncle worked at the embassy. Money was never an issue, but him being a foreigner was, sometimes. He stands shirtless in front of his closet, pensively rubbing his chin as his gaze goes from one coating hanger to the next, trying to decide on what shirt to wear.

Under the bright bedroom lights, the blackish purple color of the crossed-out squares tattooed on his arms is overexposed, boldly standing out against his slightly-tanned skin.

When he’s fully dressed and put his hair up in a ponytail to get it out of his neck, Lucci deliberately leaves the first two buttons of his shirt unbuttoned, spritzes some of his favorite cologne against the column of his throat and pops the collar. It’s still so early but he feels surprisingly awake. Must’ve been the coffee. He just needs to get his lunchbox from the fridge, with the leftovers from yesterday’s dinner, and grab his phone from the counter and his briefcase, then he can slip on his shoes and head off to work.

Driving down to the harbor in the dark feels like being in a movie. Streetlight falls through the front window of his car in neat intervals. Lucci likes the contemplative quiet of the city during nighttime. It’s a stark contrast with the bustling port just beyond its borders.

Spandam’s waiting for him at the beginning of the terminal, with his hands stuffed into the pockets of his blazer and his tie whipping around his neck. There’s a strong wind that sprays the smell of seawater into their faces. Dockworkers are scrambling around them, readying the terminal for the ship’s arrival, and in the background, over the sound of the waves crashing against the walkway, the wheels of a movable crane bulldozer over the concrete. Lucci furrows his brows when he sees his superior isn’t waiting for him alone.

One of the foremen he recognizes to be Franky is standing next to him, talking excitedly to a young man barely out of his teens. Lucci’s never seen the boy around here before.

“Ah, Lucci, there you are,” Spandam beckons him over impatiently when he’s close enough, obviously tired of being ignored by his company. “Remember that, ahem, assignment we talked about last week?” All he gets in response is an unimpressed, stone-cold expression. Spandam bristles and continues irritably, “About the internship, yes? Pah, well, this is your internee. Monkey D. Garp’s grandson—”

Before Spandam manages to wedge another word in, the boy pipes up loudly, “Oi, I can introduce myself!”

“My name’s Luffy,” he says over Franky’s roaring laughter, turning towards Lucci with a big grin on his face. “Nice to meet you!” His words aren’t accompanied by the customary bow or handshake, but there’s enthusiasm visible in his loose-limbed, almost lanky posture. “And I know more people who work here than just my gramps.”

Lucci wonders how much it would affect his perfect record if he turns around and walks away now. This boy’s going to be a headache, of that he’s sure.

“Like me,” Franky agrees gleefully, pointing at himself with a satisfied smile curled on his lips. “Hah, Luffy’s been around the docks since he’s been a kid, always getting into trouble—” Lucci snaps his head up at the word, looking sharply at the foreman as he says this, while Luffy happily nods along in confirmation.

“Did you know Shanks had to dive into the water to get ‘em out once? Garp was so pissed.”

Done with the conversation, Spandam loudly scrapes his throat, and when that doesn’t get their attention, he exclaims rather loudly, “Yes, yes, but Garp’s grandson – “My name’s Luffy!” – will be upholding a certain standard now, and who better to coach him than our very best, mmmh?”

Scratching the side of his head, Franky looks somewhat dubiously at Spandam and mutters, “They’ll be evenly matched if you ask me.”

Spandam huffs in return and replies stiffly, “But I didn’t.” Jabbing his forefinger at Lucci, he continues, “He’ll be under your supervision. Show him what we do around here, ease him into it with some easy tasks and please don’t give Garp a reason to complain about us. Last thing I need is the coast guard nagging at me!”

“I’ll make sure he’s on his best behavior,” Lucci responds coolly, before turning away and walking further down the terminal. He pauses and casts a glance over his shoulder at Luffy. “Are you coming or not?”

Luffy wasn’t really paying much attention to the conversation going on around him; he was watching wide-eyed how the dockworkers install the movable cranes along the walkway and drive their container handlers around. When Lucci addresses him, he tilts his head in surprise. Giddy at the thought of getting on one of those huge container ships, he bounces after him, moving on the balls of his feet. Lucci heaves a deep sigh.

When the Maersk Elgin docks, the cranes are neatly lined up along the terminal walkway with plenty of space in between to stockpile the containers. They’re standing near the far end for the inspection.

“—And since the ship comes from Shanghai, we have clearance to open around fifteen percent of the cargo even if the documentation checks out.” Lucci stops talking when he notices the boy hasn’t listened to a single word he said.

The lights from the ship reflect a blinking red and blue in Luffy’s big, expressive eyes as he stares unabashedly, mouth slightly open and rocking back on forth on the tips of his toes.

Leaning in, Lucci says with a cold smirk, “You could at least pretend to listen.”

He blinks, suddenly coming back to the conversation and chuckles sheepishly, bringing a hand to the back of his head. “Shishishi, but that would’ve been even ruder,” Luffy remarks as if that would get him out of trouble.

Seizing up the height of the ship’s hull, he then prompts, “So when are we going aboard?!”

“We’re not,” Lucci deadpans, stuffing his hands into the pockets of his pants. Some hairs come loose from his ponytail when the sea breeze picks up again. At Luffy’s pouty expression, he merely scoffs and says, “If you would’ve payed attention, you’d know that we inspect the containers off board. We check two or three right here and the others at the shelter.”

“Aw…” Luffy mumbles, and judging by the high, innocent tone of his voice, most of what Lucci said went over his head anyway. “But we can go inside the containers, right?”

Lucci closes his eyes briefly and takes a steadying breath, borrowing on his patience to get him through this conversation. It’s not that he’s bad with people; his no-nonsense demeanor and appearance usually pave the way to smooth social interactions. His mind’s susceptible to intrusive thoughts when he has to deal with people too long however, and those thoughts usually turn to violence.

Shortly after moving to Kobe, Lucci became a member of a Muay Thai club. It’s one of the few martial arts disciplines that promises the intense workout he needs.

His uncle made him do all sorts of fighting sports during his teens to get him out of his hair. Lucci learned to love the thrill of a good fight. He’s even gotten suspended a couple of times because he’d gotten carried away and beat his opponent to a bloody pulp on the mats. There’s something particularly satisfying about blood drying in the creases of his knuckles.

“Oi, can we go into the containers or not?” Luffy pipes up again impatiently, apparently not so keen on being ignored himself.

Lucci stares the boy down, nonplussed by the demanding tone in his voice and the gleam in his eyes, and studies his appearance for a moment. There’s a thin, long scar under his left eye. Even in the relative darkness, the whitish tissue sticks out against his suntanned skin. His shirt’s too big around his shoulders, store-bought, and rumpled, hanging half-out of his pants. Luffy furrows his brows together and returns Lucci’s stare defiantly.

In the background, the rumble of the cranes and of the containers being placed down on the concrete resounds over the shouts of the dockworkers.

“Yes,” Lucci eventually says, smirking coldly again. “You can go inside. Be careful nobody gets the idea in their head to reseal the container though. You might run out of air.” Softly he mutters under his breath, “And that’d be a real pity.”

“Why would anyone close the container? You’ll be there to make sure everything’s alright, right?” Luffy responds easily with a carefree grin on his face, and he crosses his arms behind his head, looking off at the ship again.

Taken aback by the boy’s response, Lucci doesn’t reply right away, absentmindedly scrutinizing his profile for a moment. He then bristles and clicks his tongue in annoyance. Some dockworkers are busy offloading a container for inspection a couple of feet away from them; the reflective strips on their safety vests glinting silver in the slivers of light. Lucci unclenches his fists and walks on over, expecting the boy to keep up.

“Oh!” Luffy yells excitedly when he sees one of the dockworkers with a crowbar. “Can I open it?!”

Startled, the dockworker almost drops the crowbar and fumbles to keep a tight grip. He looks from his colleagues to Lucci to the boy and then back to Lucci, instinctively knowing he’s the one who really calls the shots. Rolling his eyes, he reminds him snidely, “You’re supposed to be on your best behavior.”

Luffy rubs his chin pensively, nods to himself and then turns to the dockworker with the crowbar, looking at him earnestly. “Can I please open it?” He asks politely.

It’s going to be a long day, Lucci thinks as he watches how the astounded dockworker hands the crowbar over to the boy and helps him open the container. He’s going to pay a visit to Spandam’s office once they’re done with the inspection. Agreeing to coach an intern is one thing, but Lucci has no intention to become a glorified babysitter. With a hoarse creak, the container door slowly swings open under the force of the crowbar; Luffy starts to laugh loudly and his entire face lights up in triumph.

Lucci just barely resists the urge to dunk him into the sea.

.

#monkey d. luffy #rob lucci #luffy #lucci #lucciluffy #one piece #one piece fic #op fanfic #op fanfiction

[anubislover]

Welcome to the Heart Pirates, Nami-ya Chapter 5: The Masks We Wear

“You are, without a doubt, the most arrogant asshole I’ve ever met!” Nami screamed, her voice echoing down the steel hallway. Most of the crew had taken cover in any room they could find—things had been tense ever since the sunburn incident over a week ago, everyone walking on eggshells waiting for Law’s inevitable revenge. They all knew it wouldn’t be right away; the man liked to take his time, meticulously planning while his victim was lulled into a false sense of security, thinking he had forgiven and forgotten. There was already a large betting pool on what would happen and when, with theories ranging from her waking up to a room full of organs to being forced to wear a skimpy nurse uniform.

Most were silently praying for the latter.

Across from her, Law glared, arms crossed and knuckles white as a small vein popped in his neck out of frustration. They’d been arguing for nearly ten minutes, and for a man who was used to having his orders followed immediately and enthusiastically, it was quickly growing wearisome. “And you’re the most infuriating little witch I’ve ever encountered. I’m not even asking much; it’s completely within your skillset.”

“Like hell it is! You’d have more luck convincing me to wear your crew’s stupid jumpsuits!”

“And deprive my men of seeing you prance around in practically nothing? Morale would tank.”

She crossed her arms, scowling. “Then we agree; I’m not doing it.”

“Our agreement was that you work for me; that means you listen to my orders and carry them out, no arguments.”

“I absolutely never agreed to the ‘no arguments’ part.”

“All I’m asking is for you to pull your weight by using your skills as the Cat Thief to assist me in a little infiltration job. Or do you not know how to act like a lady?” he taunted.

She bristled at the insult but refused to take the bait. “I already pull my weight; I help Bepo with his maps, guide you through storms, and do my share of chores.”

“I’ll concede to the first two, but I know you’ve been conning the men into doing your cleaning.”

She didn’t even try to stop the pleased smirk from curving her lips. “I can’t help it if they feel like being gentlemen by taking on some extra mopping so I can dedicate my time to more important matters.”

“And you thank them by stealing their wallets.”

“It’s no secret I’m a thief; they should know better than to let their guards down around me. Consider it training; you said I shouldn’t let my skills degrade, and a pretty face like mine could be their downfall if they don’t smarten up.”

“That’s the only reason I haven’t removed your hands for it, Nami-ya,” Law replied sourly. “That being said, I’m ordering you to stop stealing from them. It’s not nice to take advantage of your crew.”

Infuriated, she jabbed him in the chest. “They’re not my crew! We’re in a temporary alliance, and I’m fine working with them, but I’m a Straw Hat! Get that through your pigheaded-skull!”

A hand shot forward, grabbing her wrist and pulling her close to Law’s tall, imposing form. “For all intents and purposes, until the year is up, you’re a Heart Pirate. I said when you first arrived, I intend on making the most of having you on my crew, and I meant it.” Arguing was getting him nowhere, so he quickly changed tactics. A shiver ran up Nami’s spine as he leaned close, hot breath ghosting over her sensitive ear and neck. “You’re stealthy, clever, beautiful, and one of the best burglars on the Grand Line. I can’t imagine a better partner. With our combined skillsets, a job like this should be both easy and extremely profitable. I just need your help searching the place for some classified documents once the party’s in full swing.”

A hint of pink dusted her cheeks at his flattery. “Documents?”

“Inside the main study is a safe full of Marine codes, reports on the various atrocities they’ve caused in the name of ‘justice,’ names of soldiers infiltrating pirate crews—all things that go for millions of belli on the black market. Besides that, our target is known for having expensive tastes. Bejeweled trinkets, high-end art, gold statuettes; the man’s loaded.”

Nami couldn’t help it; belli signs flashed in her eyes at the thought of getting her hands on that treasure. Law’d said he had a big job planned, and clearly, he wasn’t kidding.

It was clear that he had her attention, so the Dark Doctor pressed on, voice dropping an octave to seductively murmur, “And that’s just the study. Imagine all the rich pockets you could pick at the party. Far more profitable than my crew, and anything you manage to steal on your own is completely yours; I won’t even demand a cut.” Brushing his free hand across the sleeve of her borrowed shirt, he added, “I was even generous enough to buy you a new dress for the occasion, since you’ll need to look the part of a rich doctor’s lover.”

As much as she hated it, she was wavering. When he’d first proposed—or more specifically, ordered—she escort him to a party as his date, she’d refused on principle. But damn, after only a month, he was starting to figure out her weaknesses, and right now, money was a big one. She had very little to her name on the ship; most of her clothes were borrowed from Ikkaku, and while they’ve made port a couple times, she hadn’t been able to get much beyond the essentials. So the idea of having fresh, wealthy victims and an outfit of her own that she didn’t even have to pay for was tempting indeed.

Too bad she knew pirates like him didn’t do anything for free.

Ignoring the overwhelming heat of his proximity and her natural greed, hazelnut eyes met his hooded gaze suspiciously. “What’s your real game here, Law?”

To his credit, his lazy grin didn’t falter. “Maybe I just think it’ll be amusing to watch you force yourself to shower me with love and adoration all night.”

Nami didn’t buy it for a second. Beneath the sharp scent of soap and antiseptic, she could smell a con. “And who, exactly, owns the house we’ll be infiltrating?”

The confident expression finally slid off his face. “Baron Harpin Gerald, former Head of Intelligence for the Navy.”

“Are you fucking kidding me?!”

“He’s over 70 years old—far past his prime.”

“Whitebeard was 72 and still considered the Strongest Man in the World! Garp’s even older and he can throw cannonballs like baseballs! And do you really think a couple of pirates won’t be recognized at a former Marine bigwig’s gala? Especially one of the fucking Supernova?!” she shouted, trying to pull away for the certified madman who’d managed to rope her into service.

Not budging or releasing his hold on the slippery thief, he stated, “Lucky that it’s a masquerade ball, then. A good mask, some temporary hair dye, and no one will suspect a thing. Besides, no pirate would be brazen enough to walk right into the lion’s den.”

“You mean stupid enough.”

“And here I thought you’d enjoy making a little extra cash.”

“I like staying out of jail more. Besides, I’ve seen what your powers can do; you don’t even need to attend the party!”

Gold eyes narrowed in annoyance, though she got the sense it wasn’t fully at her. “On that scale, everyone with eyes will notice a mysterious blue bubble springing up out of nowhere, and someone is sure to raise the alarm,” he countered. “The other problem is that the safe is made out of Seastone—that means my powers are useless, and even touching the damn thing weakens me. So, I need a more traditional thief by my side as back-up.”

Realization hit her like Luffy’s Gum-Gum Bazooka. “You’ve tried to rob him before, haven’t you?”

“Once, about six months ago. Far from a success, though at least the injuries were minimal and he never found out who got past his defenses.”

She frowned. Now it definitely made sense why he wanted to infiltrate the masquerade, but she was still skeptical. “How do you even plan to get us in? If this party’s as fancy as you say, there’ll be a guest list, invitations, at the very list some kind of ID check at the entrance to keep the riffraff out.”

Law reached into his jean pocket, drawing out a shiny, embossed invitation. “Then it’s a good thing Dr. Goodheart Adrian M.D. and his plus-one have already RSVP’d.”

“You really think they’ll fall for a fake invitation?”

“I sent Uni ahead to switch out the guest list with an updated version. Bribed a servant to let him take his place. He sent me a message this morning that he was successful, so we’re in.”

“Like anyone would believe you’re a real doctor.”

“I am a real doctor—I wouldn’t have been able to save Mugiwara’s life if I weren’t,” he said pointedly.

Nami winced. There was that painful reminder of exactly how much she owed this man and that, whether she liked it or not, she was obligated to follow his orders for the sake of their deal. The whole plan sounded absolutely insane, but it was still a plan—far more than she was used to on her own crew.

And she really needed the money. Not just for shopping; being so poor again brought back too many painful memories of her childhood, of being poor and watching Bellemere eat nothing but mikans so her kids would have enough to eat. Of putting aside the majority of her haul after every job, counting down the days until she’d have enough to buy back her village. Of watching those shady Marines destroy the mikan grove, hauling away her stash so Arlong could keep her forever. Treasure was more than just shiny coins and cute outfits to her—it was a safety net, something she clung to as tightly as a child might a security blanket.

Money could keep monsters at bay, and now that she was stuck on a ship with the Surgeon of Death, that fact was more prominent than ever.

So as much as she wanted to refuse and wipe that smug glint from his eye, she knew he had her backed into a corner, where the most she could do was give in gracefully.

At long last, she sighed, “My dress better have pockets.”

XXX

Though she generally preferred casual clothes, Nami appreciated expensive things, and the gown Law had gotten her definitely screamed “money.” The gold satin overdress, embossed with darker gold leopard spots, draped over her curves magnificently, cinching tightly at the waist with a black and gold belt; the bottom had an under layer of stiff interfacing, allowing it to flare out like a ballgown without the need for tulle or petticoats while concealing a daring slit where she could slip her ill-gotten goods into the many hidden interior pockets or expose the pale flesh of her leg as a distraction. The plunging neckline was nearly to her sternum, and the long, billowing sleeves hid her signature tattoo. It was more like an extremely fancy robe in its design, and underneath was a skintight, black, spaghetti-strap bodysuit much better for sneaking around in, her Clima-Tact strapped to her thigh. A string of pearls and matching earrings completed the look—it wasn’t quite as fancy as what she was sure other women would be wearing, but it was what she had, and it was less conspicuous than going unadorned. If she were lucky, maybe she’d have the opportunity to swipe something better off a drunk heiress.

“I can’t believe I agreed to this,” the Cat Thief grumbled as she carefully applied eyeliner. A long, dark purple wig covered her orange hair, the loose, elegant curls pinned away from her face with a few barrettes inlaid with pearls, letting the rest cascade down her back like a midnight waterfall. Ikkaku had given her permission to use as much of her makeup as needed, and with a bit of contouring and highlighter, Nami could hardly recognize herself.

“I can,” the engineer chimed from her bed where she’d been studying the mansion’s blueprints. She and the rest of the crew were tasked with causing a number of diversions throughout the island that would draw away the guards and authorities, giving the pair inside the perfect opportunity to sneak away to the study. “He made you an offer you couldn’t refuse. Honestly, I’m kind of jealous.”

“What, you want to be Law’s girlfriend for the night? Because I’m willing to trade.”

“Hell no—last time we tried that cover, I couldn’t keep a straight face. Nearly tanked the whole plan. But it’s cute how far he’s willing to go to get you on his side. It’s even funnier that you pretend you don’t like it.”

Nami snorted, brushing on some mascara, pleased with how sultry the fanned-out lashes made her almond eyes. “I don’t like it. He’s a creep, and Luffy’s rival, and I’m still waiting for the day I wake up on his operating table, heart and liver and kidneys on display and ready for sale. Or for him to sell me wholesale to the highest bidder.”

Shaking her head, Ikkaku replied matter-of-factly, “He wouldn’t do that to you unless you really tried to fuck us over. Like, there was one guy who joined up not long after me who tried to sell Bepo to some slavers—Minks go for a lot at auctions. Captain’s not usually one for cold-blooded torture, but he made that bastard suffer. Last we saw him, the guy was in pieces being shipped off to separate corners of the four Blues.”

She shuddered at the image, though she couldn’t bring herself to fault his reaction. The more she got to know Bepo, the more she wanted to protect him, too, and from what she’d gathered, the bear was one of Law’s oldest and closest friends. “Now that I believe, but are you seriously not afraid of him? You’ve seen what he can do, and while he’s not as bad as I thought, you can’t tell me all of his reputation’s government propaganda.”

“Why would I be? Even if he was as ruthless as the papers say, Captain Law takes care of his crew. Plus, I’m indispensable around here, and I grew up with four older brothers, so I know a thing or two about how many buttons I can push before I’m in any real trouble.” She smirked, as if she’d just discovered a big secret. “You’re not scared because you think he’ll actually slice you up—otherwise, you wouldn’t backtalk him so much. What you’re really afraid of is the fact that you’re not at the top of the food chain anymore.”

It gutted her that her friend wasn’t wrong. Though Luffy was captain, from the get-go Nami had basically been the one who ran the ship, bending the others to her will with either her feminine wiles or her fists. And while she certainly had most of the Heart Pirates wrapped around her finger, she didn’t like that Law had real power and authority over her while her usual threats and tactics had minimal effect on the cool captain. “It’s far from the only reason, but yeah, it doesn’t help. Don’t get me wrong—you’ve all been super nice and accommodating—but I’m not exactly a trusting person. And Law’s way more…I guess intimidating is the best word to use, than Luffy ever was. So I’m not going to be joining the guy’s fan club anytime soon.”

“Fair, but just give Captain a chance, yeah? He might surprise you.”

Before she could argue that she wanted absolutely no surprises from the Surgeon of Death, there was a knock at the door, the raps against the metal quick and precise.

“Seems someone’s here to pick you up for your date,” Ikkaku sing-songed.

Hazel eyes glared at her bunkmate as she got up to answer the door. “It’s not a date, and if you call it that again, you’re gonna find out why exactly why I’m Head Bitch in Charge on the Sunny.”

Steeling herself, Nami smoothed down the stiff fabric of her gown, determined to treat this night with the same level of professionalism Law used in the infirmary. A few hours of acting, looking pretty, and sneaking around, and then she could plan her next shopping spree. And despite his arrogance and innuendos, she was sure Law would take this just as seriously—after all, it was his plan, and the payout affected the whole crew. He knew what he was doing, and with the amount of thought and care he put into crafting this elaborate scheme, there was no way he’d risk it by pushing her buttons. Perhaps the night wouldn’t be a total disaster.

Those reassuring thoughts flew out the window into the ocean depths to probably be eaten by a sea king the moment she opened the door.

“Please tell me that’s not your disguise.”

Looking down at himself, the Dark Doctor’s brow furrowed. “I see nothing wrong with it.” Admittedly, he looked good; midnight blue hair, including his goatee and sideburns, was dyed black, and he’d put in grey contacts to cover the distinctive gold. His suit was sleek black satin, the knee-length, high-collared coat cutting a rather dashing figure. The vest was black and gold brocade, shiny gold buttons and matching watch chain adding a little extra flare. In his hand was a polished mahogany cane with a silver handle shaped like a bird’s skull, and Nami wondered if it was secretly a sword like Brook’s.

Yes, she could admit Law looked very handsome, but it was a shit disguise. For god’s sake, he was still wearing his hat!

“You think some colored contacts and dying your hair is enough to fool people?” she said, exasperated. “You’re a Supernova; your wanted poster’s one of the most recognizable this side of the Grand Line. You didn’t even bother to cover up your tattoos!” she shrieked, pointing at his hands.

He seemed genuinely surprised at her criticism. “You think I should wear gloves, then?”

Nami could have screamed. She’d expect that kind of answer from Zoro or Luffy, not a man who prided himself on his intelligence. Grabbing his arm, she dragged him into the room, pushing him down into the chair by the mirror and snatching off his hat, tossing it onto her pillow. His lanky figure looked almost comical in the too-small seat, long legs sticking out awkwardly. “Stay there. You’re going to wear gloves, but if you need to take them off for some reason, we want those things covered.” Squeezing out some foundation into her palm, she mixed it with some bronzer until the shade matched his skin tone. “Hold out your hands.”

“I don’t care for being ordered around, Nami-ya,” he growled in warning. “Keep it up, and you’ll regret it.”

“Well, I don’t like the idea of getting caught and thrown in jail because you didn’t think the Marines would be suspicious of a guy with DEATH tattooed on his fingers.”

Though he didn’t look happy, he conceded her point, hands steady and still as she applied the makeshift concealer. Definitely the hands of a surgeon, she thought, admiring his natural control. It was comparable to her own when she picked a lock or drew a map; not so much as a tremor, even when under intense scrutiny. Pleased that the black ink was sufficiently covered, she quickly spritzed on some setting spray and finishing powder, hoping the foundation wouldn’t rub off inside the gloves.

Inspecting his face, she then tilted the captain’s chin up, dabbing some concealer under his eyes.

“The fuck are you doing, woman?” he snapped, jerking his head back as if she’d slapped him.

“Covering up those massive bags under your eyes.”

“The hands were one thing, but I’m not letting you put makeup on my face. Besides, I like the world knowing that I’m tired of its shit and ready to kill at any moment.”

“Oh, yeah, that’s totally the mindset of a respectable, non-pirate doctor,” she sassed, jutting out her hip in annoyance. “It’s not like I’m turning you into a drag queen; just covering up some of your more recognizable flaws.”

His brow twitched at the insult. “I’ll be wearing a mask, so why does it matter?”

“You can still see under your eyes, and they might make you take off the mask at check-in. Are you really willing to risk your ‘perfect’ plan because your fragile male ego can’t handle a little cover-up?”

“Oh, just listen to her, Captain,” Ikkaku chimed from her bunk, the Cheshire cat grin on her face declaring to them both that she was mostly getting involved for her own amusement. “Nami’s the infiltration expert here, and you’re the one who insisted she come with you. Just suck it up.”

“You’re fired,” he snapped, pointing at her sternly as he once more dodged Nami’s attempt to dab him with the sponge.

“You’ve fired me six times since I joined, and I’ll tell you the same thing I always do—get rid of me, and Shachi’s the most qualified person to touch up your tattoos. You want that?”

Law shuddered. “Fine, you’re not fired, but you’re on kitchen duty for a month.”

“Eh, fair enough. Now be a good boy and let Nami tart you up.”

His glare could have melted steel, but he stopped resisting as the navigator carefully covered up the proof of his insomnia. Nami had to admit, she was impressed; Ikkaku hadn’t been kidding when she said she had no fear of the Surgeon of Death. It was also nice to see someone else backtalk him, as most of the time the Heart Pirates seemed to worship the very ground he walked on. It made her feel less like the enemy.

As the dark circles disappeared, she had to admit, she kind of missed them. Even though they could make her tired just by looking at them, they were distinctive and a major part of his normal appearance, and he just looked so different without them. Younger, maybe, and less mysterious.

Normal. Boring. Just…not Law.

Sensing her scrutiny, he raised a dark eyebrow. “Something on my face, Nami-ya? I mean, besides the makeup.”

Suppressing a blush at having been caught, she replied, “Just trying to figure out if you need any highlighter or lipstick. I’ve got a lovely flamingo pink—”

“Try it and Mugiwara-ya will have to find a new navigator,” he snarled, the hard look in his eye and the openness of the threat sending a shiver down the spines of both women.

Not willing to risk her life just to embarrass a man, Nami backed away, hands raised in surrender. Relieved that he wouldn’t be subjected to any more of her powders or creams, Law inspected himself in the mirror, lips twisted in a grimace as he studied the difference it made to his face. Nami couldn’t tell if he was more annoyed at the indignity of it all or the fact that she’d clearly been right, but grey eyes flicked to his messy black hair.

“I guess the hat did clash with my outfit, huh?”

“To say the least.”

Without a word, he grabbed her hairbrush and began combing it back into something a bit neater and more respectable, even as Nami groused, “Don’t use my things without asking.”

“Fine. May I use your brush?” he asked, not even glancing at her as he kept brushing.

“No, you may not,” she snapped petulantly.

“Oh, dear. Whatever shall I do, then?” he chuckled, tossing it back on the vanity, smirking at her grinding teeth. His mood was infinitely improved now that he was back in control, and while Nami appreciated not having to worry about being dismembered, a minute part of her wished he’d go back to sulking. “Best get that anger out now, Nami-ya. Once we’re on the island, it’s all smiles.”

“You’re loving this, aren’t you?”

Getting out of the chair, he smirked down at her, pleased to once more have the height advantage so he could both figuratively and literally look down on the Straw Hat thief. “No, I’m enjoying this. What I’ll love is watching you try to keep that cute little temper of yours in check while we’re in public.”

“Asshole.”

“Only for you, sweetheart.”

A small vein throbbed on her temple. “Call me sweetheart again and there won’t be enough makeup on the Grand Line to cover up the bruises I’ll give you.”

“What an abusive girlfriend I have. I hope you at least kiss them better.”

“You wish. And if you’re going to be this much of an absolute prick all night, I’m charging you ten million belli per hour.”

“You want me to pay you to be my date? I wasn’t aware prostitution was part of your repertoire.”

“Congratulations; it’s now fifteen million.”

Ikkaku eagerly watched their back-and-forth like a particularly intense tennis match, grinning the whole time.

She didn’t feel particularly sorry for her captain or her roommate; both knew what they were getting into, provoking the other like that. No, she pitied the poor party guests, who had no idea what kind of unholy terror they were about to face.

Ah, to be a fly on the wall.

XXX

Tokken Island was one of the lushest and most beautiful little islands on the Grand Line, but the majority of the land was owned by Baron Harpin, forcing the port town to desperately cling to a jagged shard of the coastline while his enormous mansion and manicured grounds dominated the rest. Luckily, there were plenty of rocky outcrops and sea caves ideal for hiding the Polar Tang, and after teleporting his crew into position, the well-dressed pair made their way through the town.

“And why couldn’t you have Shambled us there or whatever it is?” Nami groused as she nearly stumbled for the third time. She was an expert at maneuvering in high heels, but that didn’t mean she was immune to the inherent dangers of cobblestone streets, especially ones so torn up.

Law chuckled as she finally accepted his proffered arm for support. The stubborn woman had refused to endure and physical contact with him until absolutely necessary, but it seemed the threat of a broken ankle before they could even get to the mansion had finally won her over. “My abilities take a lot of energy, and I’d rather save it in case we need to make a quick escape. Besides, I don’t want people getting suspicious if we pop up out of nowhere.”

She grumbled under her breath that he was probably doing it just to annoy her, even if, logically, he had a point. Wrapping her arm around his bicep for balance, she was finally able to turn her attention from the uneven road to the state of the town itself. Only about half the lanterns were lit, and what illumination they did give didn’t paint a very pretty picture.

The houses were run-down, roofs thatched haphazardly and some windowpanes packed with paper or rags instead of glass. The shops weren’t much better off, the display windows showing off rough-looking fishing supplies, underripe fruit, and cheap clothing. Only a few people were out, most looking worn-out or underfed, and those that didn’t stare at the pair of well-dressed pirates with envy watched them with hunger.

“If the Baron’s so wealthy, why’s the town in such a sorry state?” she wondered aloud. “I mean, just setting up this gala should have brought plenty of business to the port. Docking fees, restocking supplies, even sailors picking up cheap souvenirs—”

“There’s a private dock on the mansions’ grounds that he uses for deliveries and the like,” Law answered, barely sparing a glance at a skinny woman hoarsely calling out to passersbys, a basket of small trinkets thrust out towards them. “None of his business comes to the town—plus, he owns most of the farmland, so any crops are considered his property. All that’s really left is fishing, and the guy’s notorious for hating seafood, meaning these folks are shit out of luck.”

Biting her lip, Nami looked towards the woman again, freezing as a small child, yellow hair tied in twin pigtails down her shoulders, poked her head out from behind her frayed skirts. The little girl looked marginally less skinny than her mother, and without even thinking, the thief broke away from Law to inspect the woman’s wares. It appeared to be mostly jewelry—nothing particularly fancy but in the warm light of a nearby streetlamp she could tell it had been carefully made with decent materials.

“What are you doing?” Law hissed, looking around to make sure they weren’t drawing too much attention—most of the Baron’s guests wouldn’t lower themselves to pass through the slums like this, but he’d didn’t want to take any chances. That, and he wasn’t entirely sure there weren’t villagers desperate enough to try and mug them. He’d rather avoid a fight this early in the evening, and he didn’t want to get his nice, new suit dirty.

Ignoring him, she picked up a simple gold chain with a pendant made of four gemstones. They were beautifully polished, the marquise-cut purple tourmaline the color of the sky at sunrise. Their arrangement was reminiscent of Polaris, or perhaps the compass on her maps. “This is lovely,” she commented. “Is it locally made, or imported?”

The woman hastily explained, “My husband was once the Baron’s personal jeweler. He made beautiful pieces, but they were too simple for the Baron’s tastes. He wanted to impress lady callers, and demanded gaudier jewelry without providing the proper materials,” she said sourly. “My husband got sacked, and I’ve been trying to sell these off for a while. The necklace is 6000 belli on its own, or you can make me an offer for the set?” she said hopefully, indicating the matching ring and earrings in the worn basket, their delicate star designs winking in the dim light.

Immediately Nami could tell this woman hadn’t had any luck for a long time. The quality of the gems alone showed she was drastically underpricing the pieces. It was doubtful anyone in town could afford luxuries like jewelry, and if the Baron monopolized all the outside business at his own port, she probably never even saw other potential clientele. She was probably only even trying her luck now out of desperation. After all, you can’t eat gold, and with a small child to care for, any amount of belli would do.

“It would look really pretty on you,” the little girl murmured politely, large, purple eyes watching her in wonderment. Nami was certain she was the closest thing to a princess the child had ever seen, dressed in finery and on her way to an exclusive party at the glorious mansion on the hill. A real-life Cinderella, something out of a fairy tale she’d use to comfort herself on cold, hungry nights.

Nami had certainly been in those shoes, long ago, and she’d never been able to turn her back on a child in need. Her eyes were even the same color as the tourmaline in the basket.

Well, damn, she thought with a rueful smile. Poor kid could use a fairy godmother. Or at least a Cat Thief.

Pulling a black leather wallet out of her cleavage, she said, “I’ll take the set. How does 30,000 belli sound?”

Law’s jaw dropped as his eyes widened in recognition, immediately patting his pockets to confirm his suspicions. Coming up empty, he glared bitterly when the saleswoman replied, “Tha-that’d be perfectly fine!”

“You’ve got to be kidding,” Law grumbled as Nami pulled out some bills, handing them over with all the care of a woman who was fine spending money that wasn’t hers.

The thief matched his glare, tossing him the wallet. “What kind of boyfriend wouldn’t lavish his lover with jewelry?” she huffed, giving the child staring at her with blatant adoration a conspiratorial wink.

“What kind of girlfriend pickpockets her lover’s wallet?” he countered, checking the contents to make sure he was only out 30,000 belli. Satisfied that the rest of his cash was safely in place, he glanced at the little girl, his scowl faltering as his eyes fell on the awestruck face of the little girl. Quickly, his gaze darted back up to the woman who wronged him, glaring like a basilisk.

Fluttering her eyelashes, Nami replied, “The kind who knows just how generous her lover is,” she quipped before turning back to the jewelry seller to collect her purchase. For a moment, a pair of gold barrettes inlaid with clear stones—possibly diamonds, again in the marquise cut—caught her eye, but she knew better than to swipe Law’s wallet twice in one night. So, reluctantly, she only took her purchase, patting the little girl on the head in farewell. When the kid bobbed a curtsy in response, Nami couldn’t hold back her giggle, returning the gesture.

That kid’s going to have one hell of a story to tell her friends tomorrow, she thought cheerfully, jogging slightly to catch up with Law, who’d been less than the image of a handsome prince by storming off up the road without her.

Joining her date, she rolled her eyes in exasperation at the dark scowl on his face. Even without his hat, his black bangs cast ominous shadows over his eyes. He was walking even faster now, and she had to work to keep up with his long strides. It was petty, petulant revenge against the woman who had dared to get the better of him. “Are you mad that I took your wallet, or that you didn’t even notice?” she taunted lightly.

Even from the corner of his eye, his hawk-like glare made goosebumps rise across her shoulders. “I’m mad because you wasted our time and my money,” he snapped. “I already bought you your dress, mask, and wig. My ‘generosity,’ as you put it, has its limits.”

“I’ll pay you back,” she ground out, refusing to feel guilty for her actions. That little girl’s smile had been well worth the price of Law’s irritation, but she also knew she had to appease his anger if they were going to pull off their grand scheme. When he scoffed, she added reluctantly, “With interest.”

“Why’d you even bother?” he asked, indicating the jewels in her hand.

Pulling him to a stop under one of the streetlights, Nami switched her original earrings out for the bejeweled ones. “It’s for the cover. I’m supposed to be a rich doctor’s arm-candy, and my boring pearls would have looked way too simple, especially with this dress. With these, I’ll blend in better.”

“You could have just stolen them.”

She frowned at him, genuinely offended. “I steal from pirates and rich idiots who can afford it. Did you see that woman? I’d bet all the treasure on the Sunny that any money she got went to feeding her kid. I’m not going to even haggle with someone in that kind of situation.” A soft, sad smile graced her lips. “My mother did that. Claimed she was on a diet when she really couldn’t afford to feed all three of us.”

There was a moment of silence as she turned away from him, hoping to collect herself before she started bawling at the memory of Bellemere’s sacrifices. Silently, she thanked her adopted mother, willing back the stinging sensation of tears forming behind her eyes. Ruining her makeup before they even arrived at the gala would do them no good. Besides, Law would probably have some kind of smart-ass comment about it.

The refusal to let her temporary captain see her so weak, she brushed away her sadness to focus on her new jewelry. Slipping on the ring, she admired how it gleamed under the warm lamplight. It was a tad too big, fitting most comfortably on her middle finger, but she found the style suited her. She might even wear the set on a night out sometime; maybe to celebrate tonight’s success. Assuming the plan didn’t go to shit, that is.

She jumped when he finally responded, “I hate to say it, but that does look good on you.” When she turned her head, she couldn’t fight the sudden blush that spread across her cheeks. Worryingly, she couldn’t tell if it was due to his sudden, intimate proximity or the small, appreciative smile lifting his lips. Such an expression seemed too gentle for the famed Supernova, and yet she found she rather liked the way it softened and relaxed his features. “You’re surprisingly soft-hearted for a pirate, though.”

“Shut up,” she grumbled, struggling to maneuver the tiny clasp through her thick wig. Suddenly having so much hair was a real pain, and she wondered how she’d ever manage if she grew her own hair out. Short was more practical, after all, and looked cute on her to boot.

“Here, let me help,” his smooth voice whispered in her ear, and she felt her curls carefully gathered to rest over her shoulder. Nimbly, he took the necklace and fastened it securely around her neck. Tingles ran down her spine as the smooth leather of his black gloves brushed her bare skin, and the whole thing felt strangely intimate. Turning her around, Law studied his date. The pendant rested just above the dip of her bountiful cleavage, sparkling invitingly. “I’m pretty sure it’s still too simple for this crowd, but it works better than the pearls.”

Her reply was cut off by the curls she’d pinned up tumbling into her face, only to be swept back into place, secured by his deft fingers. He cupped her chin, appraising his work before nodding. Suspicious, because Trafalgar Law’s approval was never a good thing in her mind, she reached up to touch her hair, russet eyes widening when she felt gemstones instead of pearls. Head snapping back to look at the mother and daughter, her jaw dropped when she saw the little girl holding a wad of bills, beaming even more brilliantly than before while the saleswoman looked close to tears.

Turning to her partner in crime for the night, Law responded with a nonchalant shrug, though she could see his grey eyes soften as they lingered on the child excitedly waving back at them. “The pearl clips didn’t match the rest, and if we’re going to pull this off, we’d best go all-out. Plus, that cash’ll ensure their silence should they be questioned by the authorities later. I’d rather your kindness not get us identified.”

It was all very logical and well-thought-out and total bullshit. Nami had to smile as she once again took his arm, matching his easy gait as they made their way up towards the mansion. “Right. Because I’m the soft-hearted one.”

“You’re paying me back for those, too, by the way,” he quipped, smirking at her annoyed growl.

Before she could argue, he halted; the brilliant lights of the mansion were in sight, and small groups of well-dressed guests were gathering at the ornate front gate. It was time to stop being Cat Thief Nami and the Surgeon of Death Trafalgar Law, bickering pirates, and become a loving couple. Gently as a forest stream, Nami adjusted her body language, leaning comfortably against her partner, hand clutching his bicep possessively, face switching from a seething scowl to the deliriously happy grin of a woman pathetically enamored with her companion.

For his part, Law seemed to morph into his role just as fluidly, posture straightening into something more refined, his smile relaxed and charming; perfectly playing the part of a man who knew he was smart, good-looking, successful, and could easily use all that to get a woman as beautiful as the one on his arm.

Inside, Nami groused that he had the way easier acting job.

As they made their way up the mansion’s long, winding front path, crushing artfully sprinkled rose petals beneath their feet, Law slipped on a raven mask, the sharp beak curving over his nose and the shiny black feathers fanning out like little spikes over his cheeks and forehead. Nami was grateful she’d covered up his dark circles—the eye holes were definitely wide enough where they would have been distinctly visible.

In contrast, her mask was modeled after a cat, the color and leopard spots mimicking her gown perfectly. It flawlessly concealed the upper half of her face, while the large eyeholes showed off her beautiful eyes and wouldn’t block her sightline too badly.

Approaching the doorman, Law handed over their invitation, smirking when the servant checked it against the guest list before nodding, ushering them both inside. Another servant led them down an extravagantly decorated front hallway. The doctor hadn’t been kidding when he’d said the Baron was an art collector with expensive tastes; masterpieces in gold frames hung along the walls, marble statues and painted porcelain vases were displayed on opulent pedestals, and even the crimson rug beneath their feet was luxuriously soft.

Nami had to briefly bury her head against Law’s shoulder to hide the belli signs that sparkled in her eyes.

Eventually, they reached the ballroom, and as they waited to be announced, Law affectionately brushed his lips across her hair. “Ready for some fun?” he murmured, his tone affectionate but the hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips screamed of devilish intentions.

She mirrored his smile and tone, eager to line her pockets and relish in luxury for a while before the real job began. “Absolutely.”

As the ballroom doors opened, the servant next to them announced them to their fellow guests.

“Presenting Dr. Goodheart Adrian and his escort, Ms. Chaton Bellemere!”

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