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🔥Contributor Spotlight🔥

Introducing, @vannahfanfics , as one of our writers!!

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Bring on the boops!

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It was a pleasure working with you both! :D

for the 2023 daisuga big bang, i drew a cutaway of daisuga's cozy apartment for @vannahfanfics' lovely domestic fic, betaed by @allihearisradiogaga! check it out here.

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Hey could request an alphabet for kikunojo? Thank you 🙏

Hi, there! Thank you for waiting patiently for your commission. Without further ado, here it is!

Fluff Alphabet: Kikunojo

A- Activities: How do they spend their time with their s/o?

Kikunojo isn't picky; she's just happy to spend time with her S/O, no matter what that entails. She's content even to just sit in the room with her S/O while they go about their own business. That being said, Kikunojo does hold a special fondness in her heart for giving her partner aromatherapy massages! She loves that she can use her hobby to bring her partner contentment and relaxation, whether it's been a hard day for them or not. Of course, she likes being on the receiving end, too! Nothing brings her more joy than to know that her partner cares for her in the same way.

B- Body: What does this character appreciate about their s/o? What part of their body are they most proud of, and in reverse, what body part are they ashamed of and how do they respond to their s/o gushing over it?

Kikunojo loves her S/O from head to toe, but she has a particular fondness for her partner's hands. She loves to hold them, kiss them, admire them—however she can cherish them, she will! Kikunojo is also pretty proud of her own hands; as a swordswoman, she has the power to cut down her foes with efficiency and skill, but as an aromatherapist, she can bring comfort and healing to others. She just finds the ability for her to balance out the violent acts she commits with charitable ones to be quite important.

Overall, Kikunojo is pretty comfortable in her own body; she's a woman at heart, and that's all that matters to her. However, she does suffer the rare occasion of dysphoria, particularly with her hands. She sometimes finds herself thinking them "mannish" or otherwise not belonging to herself, to a degree, which especially bothers her because she holds the dual power of her hands in such high regard. If her partner reassures her that her hands—or any other part of herself that she may be bemoaning at the moment—are perfect the way they are because they are in fact a part of her that they love, she'll be so overwhelmed with gratitude and adoration! Even a woman as confident in herself as Kikunojo needs affirmation from time to time.

C- Cuddles: Is this character a cuddler? What is their favorite way to cuddle?

Kikunojo isn't one to go out of her way to initiate cuddles, finding that being in her S/O's presence is more than enough for her to be satisfied. That being said, she's happy to provide if her partner so wishes. Her favorite way to cuddle is any form where she can hold her partner's hands. She just feels that the hand-holding physically links her to her S/O in a way that nothing else really can, and she loves feeling connected in that way.

D- Dreams: How do they picture their future with their s/o?

Being a samurai devoted to the late Oden and Wano as a whole, Kikunojo really didn't think much of her future past achieving vengeance for her fallen lord and freeing Wano from Kaido's tyrannical reign. She quite honestly expected to perish in the effort. With her S/O in the picture, however, Kikunojo finds herself entertaining notions of a life beyond that conflict. She'd honestly love to settle down in a secluded place, like an isolated mountain village, and just live out the rest of her days in peace... perhaps tending to a small farm and some livestock, or starting an aromatherapy business where she gives aromatherapy massages and sells her handiworks. Then again, following in Oden's and Izou's footsteps and setting sail from Wano to explore the wide world beyond would be awfully exciting, too! Whatever the future may hold for her, as long as her S/O is by her side, Kikunojo will honestly be content.

E- Equivalence: Is this character the dominant force in the relationship, are they passive, or is the relationship more or less even?

It's situational. Kikunojo is passive in the sense that she leaves a lot up to her S/O's preferences, such as cuddling, PDA, and the like. She's content as long as her S/O is content. When it comes to important decisions and other matters like that, however, Kikunojo believes in the importance of communication and shared-decision making; she's comfortable with voicing her own opinions and preferences in that regard.

F- Fights: How does this character respond to arguments with their s/o? What would they fight about, and who would cave and apologize first?

Despite Kikunojo's approach to relationships, sometimes her emotions do get the better of her when she feels like something she loves is threatened or lost. Kikunojo can sometimes overstep her bounds when it comes to her partner and if she feels that they may be behaving in a self-destructive way; though it comes from a place of love, she can be smothering in her efforts to keep her S/O from inadvertently hurting themselves, whether it be physically, mentally, or emotionally. If her partner confronts her about it, Kikunojo will have a difficult time understanding why they are angry, initially. She just wants to help! It won't really escalate into much of a fight, though. Kikunojo will give her partner the space they need/are asking for and go off on her own to contemplate the issue, and she will eventually come around to her partner's point of view. Thus, she's typically the one to apologize first.

G- Gratitude: How does this character show their s/o that they are grateful?

Kikunojo isn't shy about expressing her feelings in words, and if she is feeling grateful to her partner, she'll typically say as much. However, one of her strongest love languages is acts of service, so she will typically couple that with doing something for her partner—making them dinner, giving them a gift, whatever her partner likes and/or what the situation calls for.

H- Honeymoon: If this character had a honeymoon with their s/o, where would they go?

A mountain onsen getaway, hands-down! There is nothing that Kikunojo would love more than to spend several days to a week in some scenic mountains just relaxing in some lovely hot springs with her S/O! Kikunojo thrives on those pictures of domesticity.

I- Insecurity: What is this character insecure about? How do they deal with their insecurities with their s/o?

As mentioned previously, Kikunojo occasionally suffers from dysphoria. It's an issue that she keeps to herself, not because she doesn't want to bother her S/O, but because she tries her best to distract herself from these thoughts. If her S/O is keen enough to pick up on her discomfort and subsequently ask her about it, though, Kikunojo will be honest about what's troubling her. She'll also be very grateful when her S/O provides her with the affirmation she needs!

J- Jealousy: Is this character the jealous type? How do they deal with being jealous?

No, Kikunojo's not the jealous type at all. She is confident in herself, for her part, and doesn't feel threatened by others, even if they are flirting with her S/O. If that attention is unwanted, of course, she will step in if needed; she won't stand for anyone making her S/O feel uncomfortable. But if her S/O likes that kind of attention, then who is she to stand in the way? Kikunojo knows who her S/O will be going home with at the end of the day! She also has complete faith in her S/O and won't question their loyalty without being given an obvious reason to do so. If her S/O wants to go out on their own and have a good time, either by themselves or with others, then Kikunojo is all for it! She'll be waiting for them to come home with open arms and lots of love!

K- Kiss: What does the character want their first kiss to be like with their s/o? How does it end up happening?

Kikunojo is very service-oriented, so more than anything, she wants her and her S/O's first kiss to be enjoyable for her S/O more than anything. It really depends on what her S/O enjoys; if she picks up on the fact that her S/O likes spontaneous first kisses, then she'll happily oblige. If her S/O is a bit of a romantic and enjoys the idea of the first kiss being the culmination of a meticulously crafted date, then Kikunojo will gather all the data she needs to plan her S/O's idea of the perfect first kiss down to the minutiae!

L- Love Confession: How does this character first profess their love to their s/o?

It's the same as above. Kikunojo will act based on how she feels her S/O will enjoy it most. Whether it's a spontaneous thing, or all part of a carefully orchestrated date, Kikunojo will be honest and earnest in her confession!

M- Marriage: How does this character view marriage? What is their ideal wedding like?

Kikunojo is ambivalent toward the idea of marriage; she feels that it's not exactly required for two people to establish themselves in a lifelong, committed relationship. If her S/O wants a wedding, though, Kikunojo certainly won't stand in the way! She's also happy with whatever kind of wedding her S/O wants and will gladly participate to the process however needed to ensure that it is the day that her beloved dreams of.

N- Nicknames: What does this character like to call their s/o?

Kikunojo's pretty basic with her terms of endearment: "darling/my darling," "love/my love," "beloved/my beloved," so on and so forth. They say exactly how she feels, and she's good with that!

O- On Cloud Nine: What is this character like when they’re in love? Is it obvious to others, or are they good at hiding it?

Being a samurai, Kikunojo has a pretty solid handle on her emotions, with a few exceptions. She's also been used to having to hide her true nature and feelings from others; therefore, it's not a struggle for her to conceal her feelings for her S/O if the situation necessitates it. It would take a rather observant individual who knows Kikunojo exceptionally well (such as Izou) to pick up on the very subtle signs that Kikunojo is fond of someone.

P- PDA: Does this character like PDA? If so, what kinds of things do they do in public to show off their s/o?

Kikunojo can take or leave PDA; as with most other things, she defers to her S/O's preferences. If her S/O does enjoy PDA, though, Kikunojo would prefer above all else to hold hands. She loves feeling tethered to her S/O in that way.

Q- Quirks: What random traits or quirks does this character have that positively affect the relationship?

Due to her upbringing in a dancing school, Kikunojo possesses quite a bit of musical talent. When she is comforting her S/O, or during times when they are cuddling and/or half-asleep, she will often hum soothing melodies while holding them or caressing them. It's a subconscious thing, almost, like she has an urge to voice the happiness in her heart at that moment.

R- Romance: Is this character a hopeless romantic, or a bit on the low-key side? Are they cliché when it comes to romantic gestures, or can they get a little bit creative?

Again, it really depends on her S/O's preferences; Kikunojo tailors her romantic gestures to their likes and dislikes. That being said, Kikunojo is low-key in her romanticism, preferring small acts of love and domesticity to big, over-the-top gestures.

S- Secrets: Are there any secrets they hide from their s/o? If so, how do they deal with it when those secrets finally come out?

If applicable, the only secrets that Kikunojo would keep would be the truth about her being sent twenty years forward in the future and her mission/desire to take down Kaido, and that would be to keep from exposing her S/O to unnecessary danger. Otherwise, Kikunojo really has nothing that she feels the need to keep from her S/O.

T- Thrill: Does this character prefer routine in their relationship, or do they like to shake things up every once in a while?

Given that Kikunojo's life was fraught with uncertainty and perils, she definitely craves routine in her relationship. It is the one constant thing she has in all the chaos of her life and duty, and she finds that it helps keep her grounded.

U- Understanding: Is this character level-headed and empathetic toward their partner, or do they sometimes have trouble figuring them out, which leads to some butting heads?

Kikunojo has a high degree of emotional intelligence and therefore is very level-headed and understanding when it comes to her partner, even if they are the total opposite in personality to her. She's very observant, especially when it comes to her S/O, and knows them better than they know themselves, sometimes.

V- Value: How does this character value their relationship with their s/o? How does it hold in comparison to their goals, ambitions, etc.?

Kikunojo is a samurai, and that means duty above all else; the next priority, though, is definitely her S/O. Kikunojo will of course make sure that her S/O knows what they're signing up for and what may result from Kikunojo's dedication to her duty as a samurai.

W- Wild Card: Any random fluff headcanon that does not fall within the other categories!

Kikunojo is an early riser by nature, usually up with the sunrise, if not before. Before, she would immediately get up and start going about her business, but once her S/O comes into the picture, she immensely enjoys laying in bed and just appreciating how beautiful/handsome/attractive her S/O is.

X- XOXO: How does this character show affection?

Kikunojo's primary love languages are acts of service and quality time. She loves to do things for her S/O, whether they ask for it or not, and show that she is there to help however they need. She also believes strongly in the power of just physically being there with her S/O, whether they are actively engaging in physical affection or not; she just likes to be there in every sense of the word. She also shows her affection through physical touch to a lesser degree, though this is usually more in response to her S/O's prompting than a compulsion on her part.

Y- Yearning: How does this character deal with time apart with their s/o?

Kikunojo can process negative emotions well and can therefore manage time apart from her S/O if need be. She is disciplined in all facets of her life, being a samurai, and takes such things as a trial of will if the absence is quite extended. She has the utmost faith that her partner will return to her and will wait patiently to welcome them home with open arms. If she is the one who has to venture away, then Kikunojo will do everything in her power to honor her S/O's loyalty and patience by ensuring that she returns safely, and as quickly as she feasibly can.

Z- Zeal: Is this character willing to great lengths for their relationship? If so, how far, and how long does it take to get to this point?

Again, Kikunojo is a samurai and attends to her own duties as such before all else; nevertheless, she is willing to go to great lengths for her relationship. She is just as devoted to her S/O as she is to her duty, for she holds loyalty of all kinds in high regard. Kikunojo never enters relationships casually, so once she has established herself as committed to her S/O, she is ready to do what it takes for them.

Interested in commissioning a fluff alphabet? See this post for details!

#one piece #one piece kiku #one piece kikunojo #kikunojo #op kikunojo #op kiku #fluff alphabet #fluff alphabets #one piece fluff alphabet #op fluff alphabet

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One Piece Live Action: Review

Well, I came home after work yesterday and immediately binged the entirety of the live-action One Piece adaptation. Now that it's morning, I thought I would collect my thoughts (which I rambled to several friends and also into my handy-dandy phone notepad app) and write a review, for anyone who's interested. I'll be honest, it's mostly for me; I have so many feelings as someone who actually loves cinematography and the artistic analysis of film with regard to storytelling—because we all know how much I love my stories—that I just have to rave about this honest-to-goodness masterpiece of a show. Obviously, it will be very spoiler-heavy, so read at your own discretion!

So, I'll start with a blanket statement and reiterate that, again, I thought this show was a masterpiece. Given the history of live-action anime adaptations, I was cautious in not having terribly high expectations, even after learning that Oda was intimately involved in the production; I also went in looking to respect it as its own entity, though, and willing to look past certain things provided there were no egregious insults to the source material. And y'all, when I say I was blown away—I damn near had a smile on my face the whole night watching it. It wasn't just the nostalgia; it was the overbearing feeling that so much love was poured into this show, which I find to be unfortunately lacking in a lot of Hollywood films these days. I found myself thinking of the Peter Jackson adaptations of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Though there were changes, some of them large, none of them felt averse to the source material; in fact, the changes felt like they came from an admiration of the source material and a strong desire to bring them justice. I dunno, I was just amazed by the pervading feeling that each and every person involved in making this show had a dream to bring One Piece to life, and they poured every ounce of effort into bringing that dream to fruition—which is what One Piece is all about. This has set the standard for live-action anime adaptations, and I finished this show so desperately hungry for more, to see how they could go bigger and better when bringing the subsequent arcs to life in a nostalgic but refreshingly new way. Goda has delivered yet again, and honestly, I will never be the same. Words aren't going to be able to capture the depth of my feelings about this show, but I must ramble on nonetheless because I am just so awed and inspired and emotional about it.

Episode 1: Romance Dawn

First of all, it's a no-brainer to have the first episode of the series titled "Romance Dawn," but it still made me giddy. The opening sequence was sick. Michael Dorman absolutely sells it as Gol D. Roger; his absolute blitheness in the face of his impending death is so spot-on, and his rendition of the "Wealth, Fame, Power" speech was so rousing. I loved that they kept the fact that Dracule, Shanks, Smoker, and Dragon were in attendance, too, and though they were the briefest of blips, their appearances hinted at the personalities and relationships with Roger that manga/anime followers already know well: Dracule, simply intrigued and stoic; little Shanks, distraught at the looming death of his captain; young Smoker, mystified at the downfall of such a legend but not necessarily sad; and Dragon, who is shown only in his green cloak, shrouded in mystery as he is. I liked the inclusion of Garp at the execution, especially given his expanded role in this adaptation of the series, but also because of his close relationship with Roger in canon; it only makes sense that he would be there at the end. I was also pleasantly surprised that they showed Roger's death on-screen. It immediately established that the tone of this version of One Piece would be darker, with the stakes higher, and I honestly love that. Finally, the overhead scene of all the people rushing out of the square to take to the seas was so breathtaking; it really drove home the impact that this one man and his words had on the world, to the point that his legacy is still going strong twenty years later.

I loved the way we are introduced to Luffy, with this new scene of him rambling to the mail pelican while shoveling water out of his sinking dinghy. It was very Jack Sparrow-esque, which was a nice nod to another defining powerhouse of the pirate adventure genre, but also so Luffy. And I maintained that feeling throughout the show. I mean, even down to the little things, like Luffy smiling every time he was in a fight, him holding onto his hat while fighting to keep it from falling off, him cheering and screaming and crowing with glee—all the little nuances were just so Luffy! I'll probably say it a thousand times throughout this, but every single member of the cast is astounding in their roles and how they embody the characters. Iñaki is no exception; he is Luffy, through and through, even if not exactly the same as the anime/manga Luffy that we all know and love. Also, the CGI effects of his rubber abilities are really cool! I imagine that was so hard to pull off, but they really do a good job of trying to make it as believable as possible.

I will scream from the rooftops about how much I love the treatment of Alvida's character. There was not even one single quip of her being "fat" or "ugly"; everything pertaining to how she is "bad" was geared to her cruelty, and I love that we've broken away from that stereotype in this show. Also, Ilia Isorelýs Paulino slayed as Alvida. She was every ounce of strong, brutal, and callous as canon Alvida, and honestly, she looks gorgeous doing it.

Also, I lived for Koby and Luffy's friendship in this series. Morgan Davies did such a fantastic job portraying Koby and his growth, and his chemistry with Iñaki was just so... yes. Every time they are on screen together, I have the biggest, stupidest smile on my face because you can just see how deep their friendship is despite not knowing each other for very long. Their goodbye scene was so, so, so touching; with the lighting, and the music, and the expression on Koby and Luffy's faces... I got misty-eyed in a way I didn't reading the manga. Given how Koby's friendship with Luffy is such a defining part of his character in the manga, the fact that they evolved it after this initial arc made me incredibly happy. If this show goes on, I'd love to see how they continue to show Koby's growth alongside the Straw Hat's adventures, given the pivotal roles he goes on to play in the narrative.

Another thing I love is the fact that the Straw Hat's backgrounds are shown in pieces throughout the narrative at key moments in the present, such that past and present parallel. It's so good and so much more impactful than just having it shown as one big chunk. Since this is largely Luffy and Shanks' background, I'll focus on it. Peter Gadiot did such a compelling job as Shanks. His portrayal of Shanks carried a tenderness and care for Luffy that just tugged at all my heartstrings. Like, his expression when he realized that Luffy ate the Devil Fruit was just so amazingly haunting... The guilt, the horror, the realization that Luffy's life will never be the same, and there's nothing he can do... Simply spectacular. Also, I will comment again on just how amazing the casting was. Even the background characters, such as Shanks' crew, just shined in their brief moments. Like, even Makino—her minimal reactions with Luffy and Shanks were just so her! She and Shanks really had that "husband and wife" energy, and I lived for it. I also have to give a round of applause to the dialogue in the series. The small changes from the manga/anime defined these portrayals of the characters as distinct from those we've come to love, but in the best way. I was on the FLOOR when little Luffy yelled "Why didn't you get his ass?!" at Shanks because it came out of left field yet was so believable and so Luffy with what we'd been shown so far. Iconic.

I loved the introduction to Zoro's character! It was so him, but also, I was amazed by the inclusion of Baroque Works so early on! His fight with the previous Number 7 was badass, and the fact that, again, the show didn't shy away from on-screen death really highlighted how dangerous this world really is. And it contradicts so well with Nami's introduction, which is so playful, with her jaunty little theme in the background. It's just so One Piece, adrenaline-pumping action and high stakes balanced with lighthearted energy and fun. Then, the bar sequence was just... chef's kiss. I love that the original three came together in the first episode; I was so excited to see what it meant as far as changes to the story and how their dynamic develops. The way they wove in scenes from the manga/anime into this new narrative was so clever; we still got Zoro eating the little girl's rice ball off the ground, establishing how good of a character he is despite seeming so ruthless. But also, can we talk about the choreography of Zoro's fight scene against all those Marines? Just... The fact that he didn't even draw his sword once because he didn't even feel them worthy opponents, the languid nonchalance of his movements when he stepped away from the bar interspersed with his crisp agility in cutting them down, the guy he took out with the cup?! Amazing. Mackenyu read the goddamn assignment. Also, Nami using her wiles to flirt with a Marine, then knocking him out to steal his uniform as soon as he's distracted... Classic Nami. And then Luffy, getting super excited at seeing Zoro fight... while Koby immediately crawls under the table to hide, LOL.

Also, props to Aidan Scott for his portrayal of Helmeppo, like, he perfectly captured the whiny bitch energy. Crawling on his hands and knees away as soon as Zoro gets one hit in on him is classic Helmeppo lmao. I also liked that they didn't shy away from hinting at how terribly Morgan treats him, though I do wish we could have seen a little more of it, if only for the sake of rounding out Helmeppo's character to make his growth throughout the show more impactful (and I will rant and rave about his growth because, my gosh, I love what they did with his character!). I died at the infamous naked sword-practicing scene, but like, it was also so perfect? Like, it just gave even more depth to his character, showing that he does desire to be strong and taken seriously, and how much his mistreatment by his father affects him. The fact that Zoro is the one who gave him his curly-bob haircut sends me, though, just... so hysterical. I screamed.

Langley Kirkwood did a great job at playing Axe-Hand Morgan, too; he totally captured his swagger, self-confidence, and tendency to exaggerate his own accomplishments. I liked that they changed the narrative a bit to where Zoro ended up in the yard because he refused to join Morgan rather than just him beating up Helmeppo; like, it just added such a neat spin to his character, showing that he is devoted to being a bounty hunter simply because he is searching for strong opponents for the pursuit of his dream and nothing else.

I also loved the changes to how Zoro, and Nami, end up joining up with Luffy. My heart swelled when Luffy untied Zoro simply because he wanted him to be able to follow his dream, and that's all, not as a means of pressuring Zoro to join him. Then Nami, sneaking around the Marine Base and stumbling upon Luffy, who almost gets them caught time and time again. It's just so them. I was so overjoyed to see Nami get some action with her Climatact, too! It was so nice to not see her overshadowed by the guys, but right there in the thick of it with them. And, speaking of in the thick of it, the fight with Axe-Hand Morgan was so good! The choreography was amazing, and the music accompanying it just made it that much more heart-pumping. I literally starting pumping my fist and whooping when the bandana and third sword came out, like, iconic Zoro moment brought to life.

Finally, Buggy's introduction at the end was so spot-on. The drama. The excessiveness. The madness. It made me so pumped, alongside seeing that Garp going after Luffy was going to be put at the beginning of the series. Some people didn't like the change, but honestly, it made more sense to me that he would go after Luffy immediately, seeing as he was intent on testing Luffy to see if he was ready to take on the world. It's evident that Garp deeply cares for Luffy, and it just makes sense to me that he wouldn't wait.

Episode 2: The Man in the Straw Hat

Honestly, this is one of my favorite episodes, and all because of Jeff Ward's portrayal of Buggy. It was so amazing. But, I also like the beginning segment showing Zoro, Nami, and Luffy's dynamic. There really is tension among them; they are not a crew yet, and seeing them come together over adversities and genuinely beginning to see each other as a crew and a family just gives me the warm and fuzzies. Because trust isn't just immediately given; it's earned, and it takes time, and seeing them slowly realize how special Luffy is and become compelled and inspired to follow him is so special.

Okay, but onto the main act: Buggy. Buggy. BUGGY! I loved the changes they made to this whole thing, honestly. Setting it in a whole circus tent where the audience is kidnapped town members rather than just... a concrete slab in a ruined town, was so smart. Like, as silly as Buggy is, he is still a menacing pirate, and the way they set up this encounter really reminded us of that. And y'all, I cannot praise enough Jeff Ward's Buggy. So amazing. Like, he's so demented yet pathetic in that Buggy way that it blows my mind, and yet, he still brought his own spin to it by really leaning into the fact that Buggy is the way he is because of his insecurities, to the point that he is totally delusional about what really happened between him and Shanks. Like, the personality switch when he realizes that Luffy knows Shanks, and he full-heartedly believes that Luffy was abandoned by Shanks, too, and is an outcast like him, and offers to have him join his crew, but being so spine-chillingly twisted the whole time is just so, so, so good. Also, again, the CGI for his Devil Fruit abilities was so cool and slick. It captured that perfect balance between horrifying and comical that's so Buggy. Finally, again, I love the changes to the dialogue that came with the show. Buggy's "Surprise, shitheads!" is just so him but still had me rolling because I didn't expect it.

And, in true One Piece fashion, Luffy's perilous plight is countered with the relative light-heartedness of Nami and Zoro escaping to rescue him. Seriously, I love the sass that Mackenyu brings to Zoro. The "Yeah, that does sound like me" was just so perfect.

The water tank scene was... oh my gosh. I will say it again and again throughout my review, but it was so clever and symbolic of them to put the flashbacks in places in the present that parallel each other. I knew it was coming, but the scene where Shanks saves Luffy was just so emotional and raw. Again, Peter Gadiot brings such a softness to Shanks that I love; the tenderness when he hugs Luffy and tells him that he doesn't care about his arm, that he's just glad he's okay, looks like it really comes from the heart. I was in tears at the end of the flashback when Shanks bequeathed his hat to Luffy; it was so emotional, and the choice to have Shanks tell Luffy to "Be good" almost killed me. Because it isn't just him telling him to behave... It's telling him to be a good person, and that's the core of Luffy's character: he's just, he's compassionate, he's truly good in a world so corrupt. Literally, that one small moment took my breath away. Finally, just a small note, but God, did I love the way that they showed Conqueror's Haki! I was interested as to how they were going to do it, and it delivered.

Finally, Iñaki has Luffy's "Don't mess with my friend or I'll kick your ass" glare down pat. When he looked at Buggy, I lost my mind with excitement because I knew shit was about to get real!

Episode 3: Tell No Tales

I really like the title of this episode, too. Not only is it clever because it's Usopp's episode, but it foreshadows the horror movie-esque vibe that Kuro's personage brings to the show by bringing to mind the saying "dead men tell no tales."

I love that the episode starts off with another scene of Luffy, Zoro, and Nami on the boat to show how they are coming together. The banter is different, somehow, with an undercurrent of growing care and trust. Also, of course, I love that they kept the janky Jolly Roger and the details of paint splatter on Luffy's face. It was just a classic cute, funny Straw Hats moment. I also loved all their interactions in the mansion, especially the changing room scene. Like, I love that they kept Luffy's acespec overtones by having him totally not react to Nami asking for opinions on how she looks at all.

I love the changes they brought to Syrup Village! Like, it was so clever to make it a shipwright's town with Usopp having a job in the shipyard, which gives more weight to his abilities as a shipwright and inventor plus the deep bond he develops with the Going Merry. Also, I adore Jacob Romero Gibson's rendition of Usopp! He makes his character so funny, so charming, so lighthearted like the comic-relief Usopp we know, but with some slight changes that really define him as a distinct Usopp. His chemistry with Kaya is so good; I loved the treatment they got in this adaptation. You could truly feel the love and deep bond between them.

Again, the side character casting is amazing. Celeste Loots makes the sweetest, most adorable Kaya. Her look of inspired wonder when Luffy was talking about a pirate's love for their ship and how it's a home was so simple, yet so defining for both her and Luffy's characters. I also loved that she and Nami bonded! It was a clever way to give insight into both of their characters. Alexander Maniatis played such a great Kuro; like, the instant I saw him, I got chills down my spine because he seemed such a prim and proper butler yet had such an edge of malice about him. Also, he nailed the Kuro glasses gesture. Also, Sham and Rika were so well done; they really nailed that whimsical horror vibe going on. Finally, Merry was done well, too! Though I adore him, I was glad that they chose to actually kill him this go-around. First of all, from a medical perspective, it's hard to survive that kind of wound LOL; but also, it again showed just how high the stakes are and how frighteningly ruthless and cold Kuro is.

I was fascinated to see the addition of the Marines to this arc, but honestly, I loved it. The scene of Usopp running through the streets screaming for help was so heartbreaking; Jacob killed it, especially with the expression of disbelief, terror, and desperation on his face as he slowly sat down whispering "Why won't anyone believe me?" Again, so clever to superimpose this with the crux of his backstory, with the reveal that his chronic lying stems from the trauma of his mother's illness and believing that if he just kept up this ritual every day, his father would come home and everything would be right again in the world; sympathy for Usopp hit me more than it ever had. Then, for it to pan to Koby leaning over him earnestly saying, "I believe you," I got chills. Absolutely stupendous way to end the episode.

Episode 4: The Pirates Are Coming

This one is also one of my favorite episodes, for multiple reasons, all pertaining to character development.

The scenes of Zoro in the well will haunt me forever in the best way. It was just such an amazing choice, symbolically, to parallel his scenes of backstory with Kuina with him struggling to get out of this well, a deep, dark hole from which he seemingly cannot escape, just like the deep, dark hole of insecurity he struggled to climb out of with Kuina, and the deep, dark hole of trying to honor Kuina's memory that he struggles with early on. Him slipping each time he is defeated by Kuina or something happens to knock him down... Him climbing higher as his childhood self grows and bonds with Kuina... It was just so artistic, so beautiful, that I still get chills thinking about it. The amazing score that accompanies the scenes also has a lot to do with it. I haven't touched on the score much, but honestly, it's so amazing too. Also, shoutout to the actor who played Kuina's dad. Like, the way he delivered the news of Kuina's death to Zoro was so powerful; him trying to be the stoic sensei, but still crying a tear, and them embracing at the end... My heart hurted.

There is a lot of good Koby growth in this episode as well! This is where we really see him struggle with his sense of "justice" that he gains and grows throughout the anime/manga... Wanting to follow orders, but wanting to follow his heart, but not yet having the courage to stand up to authority, all foiled by Helmeppo, who is jaded by the reality of the Marines and lacks empathy for others secondary to his own self-hatred... It's so good, and a wonderful addition, in my opinion, because I hate that a lot of the growth of the other characters in One Piece happens behind the scenes sometimes.

Again, I love the changes to Usopp in this adaptation, and it peaks with him choosing to stay with Kaya in the mansion. It just gives a glimmer of the Usopp we come to see, the one who refuses to run away when the things he cares about are truly threatened, and drives home the fact that Usopp loves Kaya enough to face certain death for her, despite his cowardly tendencies. Just amazing.

But again, I have to give props to the actors of the Kuro crew, and the whole team behind this sequence. It was so creepy! Like, it had such a maliciousness and element of horror that the anime/manga just couldn't capture. I knew what happened in the end, but I was still on pins and needles the whole time because there was just so much tension! I did laugh at the Zoro and Luffy moment out in the woods, though, referencing Zoro's nonexistent sense of direction. And Zoro's fight with the lackeys was amazingly choreographed, as always, with Mackenyu really nailing Zoro getting enraged when Kuina's sword was stolen.

The ending scenes! What a way to end such a tense episode! I screamed at the UsoKaya kiss; it was so unexpected yet delightful! But also, the Straw Hats' reactions were so them. And then, the bliss and exhilaration as they sailed away on the Going Merry, while notes of "We Are" played in the background. Even the small details hit me, like Zoro finding a place to sleep and sleeping with Kuina's sword, and Luffy and Usopp arguing over who's captain, and all of them laughing together... just really captured the world I love. Then, an amazing cliffhanger with them being attacked by Garp and Luffy dropping the "Grandpa?" bomb. Perfect.

Episode 5: Eat At Baratie!

I was so hype for this episode because Sanji was my first One Piece love, and I was so excited to see the takes on his character and arc. I was not disappointed.

I liked howGarp's relationship with Luffy was given slowly over the course of the series. The flashback of him destroying Luffy's boat and hauling him off, with no regard to his dreams, really hit home because of how much value had been placed on dreams up until then. Garp as a character really started to shine here, with him hurling a cannonball with his bare hand, then laughing when Luffy bested him (because we all know how intertwined laughter is to the One Piece narrative, especially with regards to Luffy). The simple bit of Koby saving Helmeppo's life, too, and the look of bewilderment he gives him that heralds the change in his character and impending growth, was just so good, too! And of course, the interactions of the Straw Hats were great; they are coming together, but they still have a long way to go, and that just makes what follows in the Baratie arc that much more meaningful. They aren't a crew yet, but they will be.

So appropriate that Luffy's nose and gullet leads him to the Baratie. And, oh, I love what they did with this set! It's the most magnificent, in my opinion. I love the addition of a lighthouse, since the Baratie is supposed to be a refuge for hungry sailors of all kinds. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about the crew and how they interacted in the restaurant, too; it had so many good moments of them bonding. However, I have to take a moment to acknowledge Usopp, who just killed it throughout this episode; like, strutting into the restaurant tits-out? "I can't eat anymore, but it's so good?" The fishbowl? The dancing? The blabbing to a complete stranger only for it to turn out to be a legendary badass here for his captain? Iconic behavior. But, seriously, so many good character moments here. Luffy ordering milk like the innocent cutie he is. Zoro struggling to sit in the booth with his swords but refusing to check them. Nami being totally unimpressed with Sanji's flirting. The boys teasing Nami for Sanji's flirting. 10/10. And Zoro and Nami bonding by trying to learn more about one another! The shift in her character really is fantastic; Emily Rudd did a bang-up job of showing that Nami truly is a good person, but is so damaged by her childhood and is scared to get close to anyone because she inevitably hurts them. I loved that she called Zoro her friend while trying to dissuade him from fighting Mihawk, and the switch that happens in her debating on betraying them in secret comes from him rebuking her by throwing her own words back in her face.

Also, speaking of Sanji, I adore Taz Skylar's Sanji with all my heart. Like, first of all, I love that they toned down his flirtatiousness. It's still there, but it is at such a more tolerable level because it isn't overbearing or uncomfortable. Then there is his smile. My God, every time he smiles, my heart sings. Like, he just captured the essence of Sanji that is part dapper gentleman badass, part snarky, foul-mouthed asshole, and part pathetic wet beast of a man. I have fallen in love with Sanji all over again. I also loved his relationship with Zeff. It was so them; bickering incessantly, antagonism belying the genuine love they have for each other. Finally, I adore the relationship he gains with the crew. Like, it is so obvious how much he comes to care about Luffy after them talking about dreams and later while helping Luffy process what it really means to be a captain. Also, it's so badass that he did all his own stunts. Him fighting so screams Sanji! I just cherish this Sanji, I really do.

I knew going in that they condensed this arc, and honestly, I'm pleased with how they did it. I thought it was so clever to introduce Mihawk differently, with him absolutely decimating Don Krieg's crew single-handedly and calling it "Killing time." Also, he's so hot, it's honestly unfair. Again, the amazing casting shines through, because Steven Ward made such a spectacular Mihawk, totally encapsulating that devil-may-care attitude of his and his interest in powerful people. Phenomenal. And to pair this with more Koby growth, with him being appalled by Garp using pirates to do his business and that the World Government has the Warlord system. I had to laugh at Helmeppo's "You don't know shit about how the world works" because it was just a funny line in general, but funnier coming from him, who also doesn't know shit about how the world works in a different way. It was sad not to see Sanji shine in combat against the Don Krieg crew (though I loved the Gin appearance and that he lives this time!), I think it was a smart narrative choice to have this episode center around Mihawk vs. Zoro, given what follows. Speaking of, that fight was amazing. It was a dead ringer to how it goes down into the manga, down to the pose at the end when Zoro points his sword at the sky and vows never to lose again. I also love that Nami didn't flee in secret like she did in the manga; she stayed, and there was that tender moment of her holding Usopp's hand for comfort. I just think it does so well to illustrate how Nami is changing, but also, the sheer power that Luffy holds in making people who have given up all hope believe again. Nami stays because, deep down, she has hope that she can be a part of this crew, that she can have the courage to tell Luffy the truth and have him help her save her home, that she can be free of Arlong, and that is so powerful in a way that is different and new than the way things originally go.

Episode 6: The Chef and The Chore Boy

I love that there is so much weight in this episode on Zoro's injury. It was glossed over in the manga, honestly, but this adaptation goes into how grievous it is and uses that as the crux of Luffy's growth as a captain and how they come together. It's amazing, narrative-wise, enough for me to be content with the large plot changes they made to the Baratie arc.

The Mihawk and Garp interaction is so gold, honestly. It really captures Mihawk's thing about doing whatever he wants despite being a dog of the World Government, and the keen interest he takes in Luffy. Also, again, Garp laughing while losing his shit at the fact that his grandson is out there tearing up the East Blue as a pirate is so awesome.

Sanji's backstory is the only one told as a full, uninterrupted narrative, and the fact that it's different because of the circumstances and the fact that Sanji is telling it to show Luffy, who is obviously doubting himself, what it means to be a captain is again so clever. Again, Sanji is one of my all-time favorite characters, and his backstory was always the most gut-wrenching to me; seeing it come to life was so heartbreakingly beautiful and sad and inspiring. Props to the kid that played him, like, he did a stellar job. The way he attacked Zeff with unhinged rage over his food; the way he slowly unraveled throughout the time on the rock, starting out as determined to survive and having the optimism that only a child can have and slowly transitioning into the terrified little boy he is, curled up and sniffling as the days drag on; the look of shock, guilt, and disbelief when he realizes that Zeff gave him all the food and ate his own leg (especially with knowledge from the manga, knowing the way Sanji grew up and how he has never known any sort of love, so the idea that someone would sacrifice for him, especially as a stranger, just shatters his entire world view)... It's simply spectacular. And comparing that to the present Sanji, who is so full of energy and life and hope for finding the All Blue, is just so impactful.

But, seriously, I love the whole thing of the characters' growth revolving around Zoro and his recovery. I was touched by Nami reading the story of Noland to him (and also excited by another crumb for potential sequel seasons), and Luffy struggling with what to say because he is struggling with himself and his ability to captain.

Again, I really enjoyed how they handled the transition from Baratie to Arlong Park. First of all, I loved that they kept Buggy a part of the narrative. It encapsulates that spirit of One Piece in which events and characters hundreds of chapters back can still return to have profound effects on the narrative. Also, Buggy is just downright hysterical in this show, and I enjoy his presence. The fishmen are so intimidating, and I like how they used the Baratie to set that and Arlong's motivations up. Getting to see Sanji really fight was great, and when he lost his shit because Zeff got hurt... Yes, just yes. Finally, I love that Nami just "betrayed" them in person. The fact that it went down like it did made Luffy emotional intelligence and his belief that Nami isn't just a traitor that much more impactful to me. Emily Rudd did such a good job of showing Nami as someone who is callous on the surface but clearly has that undertone of hesitation and guilt about what she is doing, though she knows she is doing it to save their lives. Also, Sanji being shirtless while saving Luffy? Like, I will take the fanservice, but it was just so funny to me LOL

But the end of the episode was so hopeful! After everything going wrong, Luffy finally finds the words he needs to say because he knows now what it means to be a captain; he needs his crew as much as they need him. And Zoro waking up at that moment, and Luffy being so excited to see him that he crawls all over him and flings his arm around LOL, it's so Luffy. And I loved that we got official acknowledgement of Zoro as his first mate! It was so good! And finally, Sanji and Zeff's goodbye. It was so emotional, Taz's voice breaking as he thanked Zeff for everything and putting up with all his shit over the years... I cried. TT.TT And of course, ending it with the twist that Buggy will lead them to Arlong is just so exciting LOL

Chapter 7: The Girl With The Sawfish Tattoo

I was so ready for this episode because some of the scenes in the Arlong Park arc are still some of my favorites. I'll admit that this is the arc that had a few changes that I wish weren't there, but overall, I still like how it was handled, and it kept the spirit of the manga.

Again, I like how Nami's backstory is interspersed with key moments of the present narrative. The initial scene of childhood innocence with her and Nojiko and Belle-mere, so light and happy, and coming to a jarring end as she snaps to reality in Arlong Park... Perfect. Also, I thought it was cool that they turned Arlong Park into an amusement park; it's a clever nod to Arlong's twisted notion of making the world a "paradise" for fishmen. Again, I have to commend the casting. Arlong is so savage in this. He practically radiates bloodlust, and it's so good, even though I know what happens, I was worrying for Nami the whole time because he could so easily turn on her on a whim. Then, pairing the conflict of Nami having to go collect money from her village with the conflict with Belle-mere, her hating that she's poor and weaponizing the fact that they aren't a "real" family, as a frustrated child would... So clever. I will admit that this is where the changes that I don't like come in. I really don't like that they made it to where the town had no clue about the fact that she was trying to buy back the village the whole time, and they pretended not to know to try and keep Nami safe. Like, they kept the idea that Nami felt sh deserved to be hated because she felt guilty for not cherishing Belle-mere as she should have and somehow responsible for what happened to the town, but still, what was special about Nami's arc is that she believed that she hurt everyone around her and that she didn't deserve to be loved, but she had been loved the whole time, and this show completely abolished that. In the same vein, I hated the cuts they made to Genzo's character. Belle-mere was her mother figure, and Genzo was her father figure, and that was largely unseen here. They had the nods to the pinwheels (it was cute that they used the tangerine skills), but, again, I felt it was a disservice to Nami's story and character to make changes like this, and I honestly don't know why they felt the need to do it at all, aside from maybe driving home the fact that Nami felt she deserved to be hated and so let the village hate her.

Again, very interesting how they wove in the Marines here. I honestly loved the dinner with Garp and Zeff; them talking about the old days, and Zeff hinting at the times changing and the upcoming generation that becomes a crux to the overall One Piece narrative, is so good. Also, love the Helmeppo and Koby bonding. Their friendship has become so important to me.

But, seriously, props to Iñaki, and the scriptwriters, for just perfectly capturing Luffy's emotional intelligence. Because Nojiko has no idea that Nami is trying to buy back the town, the cast is left believing that Nami genuinely betrayed them, but Luffy just refuses to abandon his gut feeling that there is something more, and he won't stop until he hears it directly from Nami, whom he knows is not being honest with him. Though I don't like the changes to the story, I do like the scene of Nami and Nojiko's reconciliation. It's very heartfelt and heartbreaking, especially when followed by Nezumi arriving to take Nami's money away; everything finally seems to be going right for Nami, and then it all falls apart. I loved the cinematography of her running through the tangerine fields; it truly captured the desperation, all the way up until her falling to her knees at the sight of her village being razed to the ground. Emily Rudd and Iñaki truly nailed the next sequence, which is my favorite in all the manga; Nami's screaming with rage as she stabs her tattoo, Luffy standing there, waiting for the ask for help that he instinctively knows will come, Nami turning around and whispering a broken "Help me," and then, in a perfect parallel to the manga panel, the rest of the crew, despite still not knowing the full context, all immediately being there for her... It will live in my head rent-free until I die.

Chapter 8: The Worst in the East

A good conclusion to the masterpiece that is the adaptation, but again, I am starving for more. Despite my problems with the changes in the previous episode, I thought the condensation in this episode was pretty all right.

The battle of Arlong Park was much shorter, obviously, but I still enjoyed it a lot! I like that they kept Usopp's first solo fight, and all-in-all, it lined up well with the manga. I am, however, so deeply disappointed at the omission of Usopp Hammer and Rubber Band of Doom. Like, I remember the first time I watched this episode of the anime in dub, and I had to pause it for five minutes because hearing Usopp trill "Rubber Band of Dooooooooom!" had me in hysterics, on the floor, laughing until I cried. They kept him pretending to be dead with hot sauce "blood," but not that? How could they do my boy like that? I did laugh at the whole, "I did it! ... Aaaaaaaaaand there was no one there to see it." That aside, the Zoro and Sanji team-up fight was awesome. The ZoSan banter really begins, and it was gratifying to really get to see Sanji shine in a fight since he didn't get to in the Baratie arc as much, as well as Zoro clutching at his wound throughout the fight! Also, I love that the singular "fuck" in the show went to Zoro, and it was directed at Buggy, "that fuckin' clown." Like, so iconic, so perfect, 100/10 moment right there. And, of course, Luffy's fight with Arlong. The teeth-shedding thing was so horrifying and gross, but again drove home the savagery behind Arlong's character. Obviously, they made some alterations to the fight because it would be hard to replicate in live action, but I was more concerned with them keeping the core of the fight: Luffy bringing down Arlong Park because it was all built upon Nami's pain and sacrifice, and that was rendered beautifully. I loved the shot of Arlong Park collapsing. It was so devastating and destructive in a way the anime wasn't, so the horror of the crew looking on as it came crumbling to the ground, wondering if Luffy was okay, and Luffy emerging from the rubble to validate Nami as their friend and a member of their crew gave me goosebumps.

Of course, it won't be a Straw Hat story without a party. I love that they used it as a way to tie the loose ends of the story together. Koby not only reaches the crux of his character arc by finally standing up to Garp and what he believes in, but Helmeppo begins to, too, but joining him, really cementing their friendship. We finally get to the meat of the tension between Garp and Luffy, and I loved the scene where Luffy grins and laughs, and Garp sees Roger in his head. It's a recurring theme in the manga/anime, and to see it here was gratifying. Also, the fact that Luffy got totally bodied by Garp was a good reminder that Luffy still has a long way to go; he will encounter stronger and stronger enemies henceforth, but will face them with a smile and unshakeable confidence and determination.

I loved the ending. I cried tears of joy at Koby bringing Luffy his wanted poster and them hugging and saying their true goodbyes... Luffy telling Koby to be a good marine, and Koby telling Luffy to be a good pirate. It was just so satisfying, so powerful, so solidifying of the friendship that will persist throughout the manga. Then, of course, it was exciting to see all the little scenes with the poster: Makino reading it, Kayagushing over Usopp in the backgriund, Zeff hanging it on the "Employee of the Month" board, Buggy seeing it and voicing that he'll kill Luffy and Alvida chiming in, hinting their team-up... And of course, the scene where Mihawk brings it to Shanks and they all celebrate. So nostalgic, but also so dripping with the overtone that the adventure doesn't end here; that the Straw Hats are only beginning. And that's paralleled by Koby and Helmeppo, too, beginning their training under Garp. And all of it topped off with the crew sailing forth on the Going Merry, with their sail unfurling to reveal the Jolly Roger, them making their vows on the barrel with it flashing back to their childhood selves... I truly felt like I had been a part of something special and was setting out on a new journey with the Straw Hats, and I can't wait to see where they're taken next, even if that never makes it to the screen.

#opla #one piece live action #one piece #opla review #one piece live action review

[vannahfanfics]

Happy One Piece Live Action Day!

#I can't believe that I work ONE DAY a week this rotation #and it just so happens to be Thursdays #I AM WORKING TODAY #THE UNIVERSE HAS CHOSEN VIOLENCE AGAINST ME #I am the big sad #and even worse #I am on my period #I crampy #:(

[vannahfanfics]

Teehee... I got a little straw hat :3

[vannahfanfics]

Cantaloupe Kiss

Word Count: 2,315

Fluff, Romance, Post-Thriller Bark, Pre-Dressrosa

Summary: After shopping for fruit for the ship, Nami and Zoro take a small break to share a cantaloupe. One thing leads to another, and then the two of them are slinging cantaloupe at one another… and making love confessions to each other, apparently.

I finally got a chance to write something for @doctorgerth​’s One Piece of Summer Event! I’ve meant to since the beginning, but alas, things pile up. This little piece is inspired by the prompt “fruit”! Enjoy :3

Keep reading

#zona #zonami #throwback thursday

[vannahfanfics]

Deprived

Word Count: 2,550

Romance, Fluff, Post-Timeskip

Summary: Nami spent the last two years being deprived of things she loves: the sea, her crew… a certain green-haired swordsman.

Keep reading

#zonami #zona #throwback thursday

[vannahfanfics]

Sweet

Word Count: 2,375

Romance, Fluff, Birthday Parties

Summary: The Straw Hats throw Nami a birthday party. Nami gets a gift that she wasn’t expecting.

Keep reading

#zonami #zoro x nami #one piece #throwback thursday

[vannahfanfics]

Fright Night

Word Count: 2,400

Established Relationship, Humor, Pranks

Summary: Robin and Law share a morbid sense of humor, and they use it to terrorize their crewmates. Just a little bit.

“You know, Nico-ya—when you said that you wanted to spice up date night, this isn’t quite what I had in mind,” Law frowned as he scratched at the side of his head. He was looking down at Robin with a mixture of concern and intrigue. 

“I can’t blame you for that, I suppose,” came Robin’s nonchalant reply. “Most people’s ideas of dates don’t involve a disembodied head on a platter.” 

“Yet, here we are, with your disembodied head on a platter.” 

Robin’s body was sitting in the chair at the small side table on which her detached head rested comfortably; it gave Law an airy shrug, then resumed arranging romaine lettuce leaves on a large ceramic serving plate. It was quite a strange feeling, Robin mused, knowing that you were completely disconnected from your body yet able to direct its motions unimpeded. Robin merely felt like the rest of her body was suspended in water, a little weighty and cool but otherwise sensorily intact. 

“Come, now,” Robin hummed mirthfully at her boyfriend, her lipsticked mouth curling up into an impish smirk. “You can’t act all unsure before you ask me what I intend to do with my severed head on a platter.” 

“Pray tell, what do you intend to do with your severed head on a platter?” Law chuckled. 

Knowing Law, Robin surmised that he had thought that she was joking when she’d asked him to sever her head using his Devil Fruit powers. Feeling a little light-hearted himself, he’d probably done it as a joke with all intention of putting it back within a minute or so. He’d probably expected Robin to be wholly unfazed by it, given that they shared the same morbid sense of humor, but he apparently hadn’t expected her to plop her own head on a table and start arranging things like she was going to present it to a meal to somebody. 

Which is exactly what she intended to do. 

“I overheard Sanji say that Usopp missed dinner again because he’s too busy tinkering with something in his workshop,” Robin explained, pausing to let her hand pop an extra piece of lettuce into her mouth. She crunched it between her teeth and swallowed, madly curious to see if it would merely fall out of her throat or would somehow be teleported to the rest of her body. She wasn’t sure if she was disappointed or relieved to find it was the latter. 

“Sorry, I couldn’t help myself,” she grinned when Law raised an eyebrow at her. “Anyway, Sanji went to prepare something for him, and it will take time, naturally. So I thought that was the perfect recipe for a prank. Don’t you think so, too, Law?” she asked with an alluring flap of her lashes. The coy gesture did little to disguise the downright devilish gleam in her eyes. 

“I think you should leave the cooking to Black Leg-ya,” Law huffed, but his face directly contradicted his words. A Cheshire cat grin stretched wide across his mouth, and his dark eyes had taken on the same devious gleam as Robin’s. “That being said… You’ve already put in so much effort, and the man does hate to waste food. We wouldn’t want to upset your hard-working cook, now, would we?” 

“Indeed not,” Robin purred. She knew that winning over Law would be easy, but she was still incredibly pleased with his compliance. She really had intended for this to be a way to shake up the humdrum of date night, after all. One could only do so many private dinners and cuddle sessions before boredom began to set in. Variety was the spice of life, as the saying went, and Robin was in the mood for something tasty. 

And what could be tastier than scaring the living daylights out of the ship’s resident fraidy-cat? 

“All right, I think that’s enough. It’s time to bring Usopp a special delivery,” Robin smirked wickedly when her body had finished placing the last leaf of lettuce on the plate. 

“It’s a good thing that I’m a doctor,” Law laughed while picking up Robin’s head to gently set it on the plate. “I think I might have to do CPR on him after this prank. I’ve seen you all pull some shit on him, but I think this one takes the cake.” 

As he pulled his hands away, Robin blinked thoughtfully up at him; in the chair, her body mimed as if she was cupping her chin with a hand. Since her chin was a foot away resting against some romaine, of course, it merely cupped empty air. 

“What?” Law asked her. 

“Do you think I should have my body jump out of a cake?” 

“Nico-ya, I’m starting to think that you might actually want to kill Nose-ya,” Law laughed and shook his head at her. 

“Well, even if he does die, you can just resuscitate him,” Robin pointed out, her headless body shrugging casually once again. “Although, I suppose a heart attack isn’t exactly pleasant, and I’ve no real grudge against Usopp. I’ll save that idea for another time, I guess.” Robin willed her body to stand, then to motion at the silver dish cover sitting on the table beside her plattered head. “All right. Let’s hurry, before Sanji gets to him and ruins the joke!” 

“I pity those you do have grudges against,” Law just chuckled and grabbed the dish cover. 

When Law placed it over her head, Robin couldn’t help but quip, “Hey, who turned out the lights?” 

It took several minutes to get down to Usopp’s workshop in the depths of the Thousand Sunny’s hull, for Law had to proceed carefully with Robin’s headless body in tow. Most of the crew were still above decks, most likely, but they didn’t want to risk running into one of them and having to waste time on explanations. They couldn’t use Law’s Room to fast-travel down there, either; in order to do so, he’d have to create one of considerable size, and it might attract the attention of Robin’s crewmates. Both circumstances could result in Sanji completing his cooking and delivering the meal to Usopp, which would not bode well for Robin’s practical joke. Thankfully, they arrived at the door to the workshop having encountered nary a soul. 

“Oi, Nose-ya,” Robin heard her significant other call while rapping his knuckles against the door. “I’m coming in.” While her body hid in the shadows of the hall, Law slipped into the workshop, making sure to shut the door behind him. “You missed dinner, so Black Leg-ya had me bring it to you since I was headed toward the underwater viewing deck.” 

“Aw, man, I totally lost track of time!” Robin heard Usopp whine, presumably from his workbench based on the muffled sound of him hastily pushing things aside. Robin felt the platter shift as Law brought it across the room. 

“Thanks, Law!” Usopp chirped when Law set the platter down. “Funny how as soon as you stop doing something, you realize how hungry you are!” he then laughed, followed by a loud, gurgling growl of his belly. He sounded positively famished, and Robin almost felt bad for playing this little joke on him.

Almost. 

“Now, let’s see what ol’ Sanji’s whipped up this time!” she heard Usopp cackle in anticipation, combined with the sound of him rubbing his hands together. “Come to Papa~”

Robin plastered a big, cheesy grin on her face, and when Usopp removed the lid from the platter, she trilled, “Bon appetit!” 

“AAAIIIYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!” Usopp immediately howled and sprang off his stool like it was suddenly a blazing-hot fire under his rump. He frantically back-pedaled away from Robin’s detached head, and she watched with glee as all the blood drained from his face and his irises shrank into the whites of his eyes. In so doing, he tripped over a loose board and went sprawling out on his back. 

Law hastily scrambled out of the way of his flailing arms, then immediately succumbed to laughter; one hand clutched the workbench, while the other held his stomach as he gasped through his cackling fit. 

Meanwhile, Robin laughed merrily and bid her body to stroll into the room, while ripping another high-pitched scream from the terrified young man. He just watched in a mixture of horror and fascination as her body strolled up to the silver platter and plucked her head from the bed of leaves. His eyes then rolled into the back of his head, and he flopped lifelessly back to the floor. 

“Shah—Shah—Shambles!” Law wheezed while holding out a quivering hand to activate his Devil Fruit. 

Just like that, Robin’s form was now all put together. She experimentally rolled her neck around her shoulders and turned it side-to-side; once satisfied that the reattachment had not gone awry, she smiled and strolled over to the splayed-out Usopp. She crouched down beside him and clicked her tongue; sure enough, he was out cold, his eyes rolled back so she could only see the whites. When she checked his pulse, however, she felt it thrumming strong against her fingertips. No harm, no faul, she decided. 

Just then, Robin and Law heard thundering footsteps approaching. They looked up just in time to see the door burst open. 

“Usopp! Usopp, are you—?!” Sanji shouted, eyes wide with panic and his cigarette clenched tight between his teeth. It took him a second to process the scene, and as he did, his fright slowly morphed into confusion. His gaze flicked from Robin to the silver platter to Law several times in succession before the revelation dawned on his face. 

“Law! What did you do to Usopp?” he demanded, pointing a stern finger at him while using his other hand to hold a bowl of steaming-hot soup high over his head. 

“It was Nico-ya’s idea!” Law shrugged, though his devilish smirk didn’t do much to inspire any notions of his innocence. 

“Oh, we just played a little prank on him,” Robin tutted while fanning Usopp’s face. She smiled as his eyelids began to flutter and color return to his ghastly white face. “I didn’t expect him to faint.” 

Sanji scrunched up his face in a terse frown, caught between wanting to scold her and being totally unable to. So, he just stood there in stiff silence as Usopp slowly came to, moaning and groaning. 

“Ah… Robin… Your head…” he whined as he looked up at her through hazy, unfocused eyes. “Hey… It’s… It’s attached!” The sight of her totally not-headless body had him rapidly ascending into consciousness; he sat bolt upright with a gasp, looking between her, Law, and the platter with a series of confused noises. “But—But I—you—your head—the platter—Wuh?” He suddenly stopped to fix his bewildered stare on Law, and it, too, dawned on him. 

“You guys! That was totally not cool!” he cried while throwing his hands into his curly black hair. “Taking advantage of my hunger—way to hit below the belt, Robin!” 

“Sorry,” Robin apologized, though she only half-meant it. “If it makes it any better, Sanji’s here with a real plate of food for you.” 

Usopp crossed his legs underneath him and looked up at the cook as he walked over. Sanji bent down to hand Usopp the plate, and the inventor took it with a grateful sigh. He then grimaced and swirled the spoon around the broth several times, scrutinizing it. 

“You’re not in on this, are you, Sanji? No eyeballs, fingers, or creepy-crawlies?” Usopp asked with a suspicious frown up at the blond. 

“Nope. Soup is totally safe, Usopp,” Sanji reassured him with a weary smile. “Jeez… I’m glad you didn’t kill him, you two. I’d’ve been pissed if that soup had gone to waste.” 

“Oh, thanks,” Usopp huffed around a mouthful of soup and rolled his eyes. “Be pissed about the soup, not about the fact that I died. Really feeling the love here, guys.” 

“Oh, come now. I only pranked you because I knew you’d have such a delightful reaction,” Robin giggled. When Usopp frowned dourly at her, she reached up to pat him on the head. “I’m joking. You’re a good sport, Usopp; you know how to laugh at yourself. Come on—it was pretty funny, wasn’t it?” 

“Yeah,” Usopp agreed with a little snicker. “I gotta admit, that was pretty good. I can’t believe I haven’t thought of using Law’s Devil Fruit powers to pull a prank like that.” He stopped in the middle of spooning more soup into his mouth, and Robin purred excitedly at the devious gleam that alit his eyes. “Wait… What if we took off my arm and used it to prank Chopper?! Or my leg? Heck, my head, even!” 

“Nope. Not gonna be a part of this. Not listening,” Sanji quipped and strode right out of the door, hands over his ears. 

“Hold on, hold on—let me just finish this and we’ll think of something real good!” Usopp cackled maniacally and started shoveling soup into his mouth with gusto. 

Robin left him to it, rising to her feet and strolling languidly over to Law. As she leaned against the workbench beside him, he frowned at her. 

“Okay, Nose-ya coming in to third-wheel is definitely not what I had in mind.” 

“Oh, don’t even,” Robin chortled and gave him a knowing smirk. “I know that you’re dying to scare the pants off of Chopper.” 

Law could only hold his stern glare for a second before it morphed into a wolfish grin. 

“... I’d wonder if that makes me a bad person, except, I really don’t care,” he snickered devilishly and rubbed his tattooed hands together. “Oi, Nose-ya! What about sticking your arms in Nami’s tangerine trees and getting her, too?” 

“Yes!” Usopp agreed animatedly. “Although, we should save her for last. Nami might actually kill us. I want to prank everybody else before I’m brutally slaughtered like a helpless prey animal.” 

“Don’t worry, Usopp, I’ll protect you,” Robin chuckled. 

Yes, this was shaping up to be a rather interesting date night indeed. Oh, Robin was so glad that she found someone who shared her morbid sense of humor. The Thousand Sunny could do with a little excitement here and there, after all. They were just good little shipmates doing their part to keep things lively! 

“Fufufu…”

Did you enjoy this oneshot? Consider requesting from me by visiting my rules, then either commenting on this story, submitting an ask, or contacting me via DM! 

#lawbin #law x robin #robin x law #one piece #nico robin #trafalgar law #trafalgar d water law #one piece law #one piece robin #op law #op robin

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The Trouble With Trouble

Word Count: 1760

Fluff, Romance

Summary: Sabo’s kindness is really going to get him into trouble one day… but with Koala involved, it’s hard for him to care.

Greetings, friends! Alas, Saboala Week is coming to an end! Due to involvement in several other fandom weeks, I will not be producing any work for the Bonus Day. So, this is my last installment for this time, for the Day Six prompt “Kiss.” I hope you’ve enjoyed my works!

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#throwback thursday #saboala

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Just Pretend

Word Count: 2,860

Fluff, Romance, Light Angst, Angst With A Happy Ending

Summary: Koala and Sabo are just pretending to go on a date… Right?

Greetings, all! Here’s my story for Day Five of Saboala Week, for the prompt “Traditional Outfit.” Enjoy!

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#throwback thursday #saboala

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Vitamin Sea

Word Count: 2,380

Fluff, Established Relationship, Romance, Beach Day

Summary: Rintarō loves Motoya, and it shows in the little things—like going to a beach retreat when he's really not a fan.

Howdy, everyone! Here is the story I wrote for the SunaKomo Summer Exchange! Enjoy the shenanigans!

Rintarō didn’t want to come to the beach today. 

Don’t get him wrong. It wasn’t that he disliked the beach, but he couldn’t necessarily say that he liked it, either. It just seemed to be more trouble than it was worth; one could deal with any number of unpleasant things: crowded areas, sunburn, sand everywhere, salt in the eyes, jellyfish stings… the list could go on. It certainly wasn’t Rintarō’s idea of a weekend getaway, but their captain hadn’t exactly been accepting ideas when he organized this retreat to celebrate EJP Raijin’s victory at this year’s division championship. That being said, Rintarō wasn’t going to refuse some much-needed post-championship R&R, even if the venue left much to be desired for him. 

Besides, Motoya would annoy the hell out of him if he bailed, and that was definitely more trouble than it was worth. Rintarō would take the beach over his boyfriend’s petulant whines about how much he missed him being there. He’d probably say something goofy like, “Come on! Everyone needs a good dose of Vitamin Sea every once in a while! ” Plus, if Rintarō were honest… he would’ve missed Motoya, too. Rintarō was a homebody, especially compared to Motoya, but their shared apartment simply felt empty when Motoya went out while he stayed behind. 

So, here Rintarō was, lounging in a beach chair under the cool shade of an umbrella while his boyfriend and their teammates frolicked in the surf and sand like a bunch of giddy elementary schoolers. Despite the itchiness of the sand clinging to his legs and the stifling heat of the summer sun, Rintarō had a serene smile on his face while watching them; they seemed to be enjoying themselves, especially his boyfriend, which was all he needed to be content. With a languid sigh, he stretched out in the beach chair and sipped on a can of fruit juice while he watched the goings-on. 

Motoya and Tatsuki were embroiled in a rather intense splash fight in the shallows. The both of them were soaked through, hair slicked to their heads and saltwater running in rivulets down their chests as they heaved panting breaths. However, based on the determined grins plastered on their flushed faces, neither had any intentions of yielding to the other anytime soon. Like lions entangled in a desperate war for dominance, they circled one another, matching each other’s steps and not giving an inch. Suddenly, Tatsuki charged at Motoya, kicking up a spray of water to obscure his vision. Motoya shielded his face, having read the attack—but he didn’t predict that Tatsuki would crash through the wall of water and tackle him like a linebacker. 

“Wahhhhhhhhh!” Motoya wailed as he and Tatsuki both plunged into the surf. 

They wrestled around a bit, kicking up sand and sending salt spray into the air as their limbs flailed, but Motoya was no match for the bigger and broader Tatsuki. Rintarō chuckled to himself as Motoya’s squeaks of “I give, I give!” floated up to his comfy perch just above the waterline. A few seconds later, Motoya dragged himself out of the water and collapsed in a sodden, defeated heap at Rintarō’s feet. 

“Maaaaaaan! I can’t believe I lost! I was sure I had him!” he whined, angrily wiggling about in the sand like a writhing eel. Just as quickly as he had flopped to the ground in humiliated defeat, he yanked himself back up into a sitting position to glare at Tatsuki, who was wading out of the surf. “Oi! Don’t rest on your laurels yet!” he shouted at his teammate. “I want a rematch!”

Tatsuki waved a hand dismissively at him, to which Motoya responded by angrily flipping him off with both hands. 

“What are you, a toddler? Take your defeat with dignity,” Rintarō chortled as he leaned sideways a little to avoid the clumps of sand and water droplets that Motoya was flinging everywhere with his tantrum. It brought him close to the cooler, so he flipped it open and retrieved a bottle of water to offer his grumpy boyfriend. Motoya took it with a mutter of “Thanks,” then grumbled his indignance into the lip of the bottle in-between large gulps of the cold liquid. Meanwhile, Rintarō fished around in the half-melted ice for another bottle of fruit juice; while doing so, he took notice of the plump watermelon sitting within. 

Rintarō picked it up only to inspect it, but when Motoya caught sight of it, his eyes lit up. 

“Oooh, great idea, Rintarō!” he cried delightedly. Holding the empty bottle between his teeth, he crawled on all fours over to the cooler to eye the watermelon gleefully. “We shou’d c’ack dis ba’ boy o’en!” he asserted around the bottle, which bobbed up and down in his mouth as he spoke. 

“Don’t talk with your mouth full,” Rintarō huffed with a roll of his eyes, then snatched the bottle out of his teeth. “Now, what?” 

“I said, ‘We should crack this bad boy open!’” Motoya repeated, too excited about the watermelon to mind Rintarō yanking the bottle through his teeth. “Smashing watermelons is the best!” 

“I’ve always found it messy.” Rintarō frowned and scrunched up his nose in distaste. After all, half the watermelon ended up splattered all over the place! It seemed more of a waste than anything, at least to him. But, Motoya looked positively giddy at the prospect, so Rintarō just sighed. “If that’s what you’d like to do, though—” 

“Ooh, ooh, ooh, I’ve got an even better idea!” Motoya interrupted him with a squeal and promptly snatched the watermelon from his hands. He ignored Rintarō’s cry of indignance and instead scrambled to his feet—showering Rintarō head-to-toe in sand in the process—and dashed back to the shoreline, where the rest of the team was getting quite heated over a hermit crab race. He brandished the watermelon over his head and yelled, “Guys! Let’s play volleyball with the watermelon until it smashes! I call it… volley-melon!” 

“‘Volley-melon’?” Rintarō scoffed in amusement as he walked past him to go stand in the sloshing water. He paused to wash off all the sand that he had kicked onto him, then straightened up and regarded his goofy boyfriend with a hand on his hip and a raised eyebrow. “You really think that’s gonna work?” 

“We don’t know until we try!” Motoya snickered, holding the melon atop his head as he danced from one foot to the other. He then turned to their teammates. “Come on! It’ll be fun! We’ll smash it open and chow down!” His grin turned devilish as he looked straight at Tatsuki. “And then, I can whoop your butt in our rematch!” 

“Forget it; you’ve lost three times already,” Tatsuki snorted in laughter, then climbed to his feet. “I could go for some watermelon, though.”

The others chimed in agreement, and they all began to make their way to the volleyball net next to their beach encampment. Motoya followed after them, pumping the watermelon in the air above his head with excited chants of “Volley-melon, volley-melon~!” However, he stopped mid-step and then whirled on his heel to regard Rintarō—who was trekking back to his shady sanctuary—with big, curious eyes. 

“Aren’t ya gonna come play with us, Rintarō?” 

“I didn’t exactly plan on it,” he answered with a slight frown. “I was just going to watch. Watermelon bits on top of all the sand getting kicked up? I’ll pass.” 

“Come onnnnnnn!” Motoya wheedled and wiggled the watermelon emphatically above his head. “It’ll be fun! How can volleyball not be fun?” When Rintarō just gave him an unimpressed stare, Motoya fluttered his lashes and slapped on his best puppy-dog eyes with a trill of, “Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease, Rintarō?”

Damn it all, that golden retriever of a man had Rintarō wrapped around his little finger. There was simply no way that he could refuse. He could never resist those big brown puppy-dog eyes.

“All right, all right, I’ll play,” Rintarō conceded and started for the volleyball court, to which Motoya responded with a delighted cheer. While Rintarō proceeded at a leisurely pace, Motoya sprinted for the court, wobbling left and right as the heavy watermelon he still held aloft disrupted his balance. Rintarō shook his head at his boyfriend’s silly delight, then called after him, “Are you sure this is gonna work?” 

“Well, the watermelon’ll be smashed either way, right?” came Motoya’s snickered response. “So what’s the harm in trying to do it a fun way?” 

Rintarō couldn’t argue with that, so he took his place on the court without further comment. Motoya did one more spinning dance while brandishing the watermelon above his head, then held it to his chest and pointed at the opposite side of the court with a broad grin.  

“Are we ready to play some volley-melon?” he cheered. “The rules of volleyball apply, ‘cept for the need for three volleys, ‘cuz I don’t think the watermelon can take that many whacks, honestly. Just whack it back and forth over the net until it pops open! Any questions?” 

“Do we have to call it volley-melon?” came their captain’s half-amused, half-exasperated reply. 

“Yes!” Motoya asserted with an indignant puff of his cheeks. “It’s a melon, not a ball! Hence, volley-melon!” With that, he flung the watermelon into the air, then jumped up to smack it with the flat of his palm as hard as he could. 

To be honest, Rintarō didn’t expect it to make it across the net. It was far heavier than a volleyball, after all. Much to his surprise, however, Motoya’s powerful wallop propelled the large ovoid fruit in a smooth arc across the net, albeit just so. Tatsuki surged forward to catch it before it hit the ground, instinctively trying to receive it so someone could get in a better hit. It would have worked with a real volleyball, but it was much less effective for a watermelon several times its size and weight; in reality, he just braced it on his forearms as he swung his arms in an upward arc and basically just lobbed it back over the net. It came sailing straight at Rintarō, and he braced himself to catch it against his forearms and propel it back over the net. 

Well, he would have if the damn thing didn’t explode the instant it crashed into him. 

“Daaaaaaaaaaayum!” Tatsuki howled as the chunks of melon flopped down into the sand—the bits that weren’t splattered all over Rintarō, anyway. “Melon couldn’t handle the Man of Steel over there!” The rest of the team responded with similar hoots and hollers of laughter, while Rintarō just tried to shake the sticky watermelon juice and globs of fruit that coated his arms. He heard the sound of someone tromping through the sand, and he glanced up to see Motoya right before he tackled him in a hug. 

“Whoooo! That was awesome!” he squealed. Motoya was literally glowing with delight, which made it difficult for Rintarō to be irritated at the fact that he was covered in watermelon at the moment. 

“Motoya,” Rintarō just chuckled breathily and gave his goofy boyfriend a lopsided smile, “you’re gonna get watermelon all over you.” 

“S’all right.” Motoya shrugged indifferently, and his already impossibly wide smile got a little bit broader. “We can just wash off in the water, yeah?” His eyes gleamed with childish glee, and he continued with a giggle, “Wasn’t that fun?! It was only a couple volleys, but it was kinda exciting, holding your breath and wondering when it was gonna bust open, yeah?” 

 “Yeah, it was fun,” Rintarō admitted with another small laugh. It was a totally silly idea, and he’d ended up splattered in watermelon because of it, but Rintarō just couldn’t deny the fact that he was genuinely entertained. If he were totally honest… “I wish we had another one.” 

“There’s a grocery store across the road!” Tatsuki, who had walked underneath the net to snag a piece of the watermelon, cut in with a point of his index finger toward the indicated building. “We could go buy a bunch of ‘em and see how many volleys we can get in before one breaks!” 

“Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!” Motoya cackled and, apparently having forgotten his burning rivalry with the guy, released Rintarō to exchange a complicated series of fist-bumps and handshakes with him. He dove down to retrieve a chunk of the watermelon, took several large chomps out of it in quick succession on his way back up, and then looked at Rintarō with an eager expression while watermelon juice ran from his mouth in bright pink rivers. “You comin’ with us to the store, Rintarō?”

Normally, Rintarō’s first thought would be, Looking like this? But that wasn’t his first thought. No, instead it was:

“Of course I am, silly.” 

Rintarō didn’t want to come to the beach today, but he was glad he did. It ended up being more enjoyable than he’d anticipated, and even the annoying parts—sand, salt, watermelon bits—were minor inconveniences at best when he considered how much fun he was having. Besides… he’d gladly suffer every minor inconvenience possible if he’d continue to see that giddy smile on Motoya’s face, one full of so much happiness that it shone more brilliantly than even the blazing summer sun. He’d let every single one of those watermelons burst open on himself if it made Motoya laugh and smile with absolute delight. He’d do anything just to see Motoya happy because that made Rintarō happier than anything else could. 

That’s what love was all about, and Rintarō was undisputably, undeniably, unequivocally in love with Motoya Komori—and in love enough to continue to play this totally absurd invention of his that was volley-melon! Seriously, they had to pick a better name. It was a lowkey badass game; why did he have to make it sound so lame?

When Motoya told him as such, he pouted around the watermelon slice that he currently had shoved in his mouth. 

“I couldn’ thi’ o’ a’ythi’ be’er!” he whined around the fruit. 

I can’t think of anything better, either, Rintarō just thought with a chuckle, but he wasn’t talking about the game, not at all. 

Did you enjoy this oneshot? Consider requesting from me by visiting my rules, then either commenting on this story, submitting an ask, or contacting me via DM! 

#sunakomo #suna x komori #komori x suna #haikyuu #haikyuu!! #suna rintarou #rintarou suna #komori motoya #motoya komori #haikyuu fanfiction #haikyuu fanfic #haikyuu!! fanfiction #haikyuu!! fanfic

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Guess who got fancy and made a Carrd! You can now find all my information there, including request information, commission information, masterlists, and more!

The main masterlist is still very much a work in progress, so if you want the link to the old masterlist to find a certain fic or to peruse the sections that are yet unfilled, just lemme know. ^u^