#Little Longnose

[mercurymascara]

[addan-shem]

Little Longnose (2003)

[thenewnio]

[rollinouttahere-writes]

Lucky Break Chapter 6

Yandere Straw Hats x Fem!Reader

3.6 words

Beginning / Previous / Next (to be written)

Sorry that this is a little late and kinda short. On the bright side, the next chapter will be posted a few days early, so there will be less of a wait for the next one.

Unsurprisingly, convincing a bunch of kids that you aren’t actually a band of cannibalistic pirates is not an easy task to accomplish. Especially not when Luffy and Zoro are only adding to it. It only stopped when the old man running the inn interrupted the yelling and terrified screaming to say that no one was eaten.

With that established, the children were shockingly calm now, all things considered. Now that your names were cleared, all of you were lingering outside of the inn.

“Do all pirates make jokes like that?” Ninjin was gawking at Zoro. After realizing that the swordsmen had just been messing with him, his terror had morphed into awe. Now he was seeing Zoro as some hardcore pirate to aspire to be. At least he wasn’t horrendously traumatized.

Zoro rolled his shoulders and shrugged, “The cool ones do.”

The response made you roll your eyes, but it’s not like you were about to waste your precious air trying to scold him. That would truly be a useless cause. He would probably just ignore you entirely.

Luffy tapped one of the kids, Piiman, on the shoulder, “Hey, do you know where that longnose guy went?”

“Usopp?” The green haired boy hummed in thought, “He’s probably visiting Miss Kaya right now.”

“Miss Kaya?” Nami raised an inquiring brow.

“She lives in that huge house on the hill,” Tamanegi pointed at that mansion that Zoro and Nami had asked Usopp about before. Ah, that made sense now. The reason he had gotten so defensive all of a sudden was because he knew the people living there.

Nami didn’t appear to be done with her questions and pressed on, “What’s he doing over there?”

All three of the kids spoke in unison and with great enthusiasm, “Lying!”

“That’s awful!” Nami scolded the children as if she didn’t steal someone’s wallet mere minutes ago.

Ninjin was quick to leap to Usopp’s defense, “Nuh-uh! He goes over there to tell Kaya stories to make her feel better!”

“Feel better? Is she sick?”

Piiman grins proudly, “Yeah, but she’s also been really sad since her parents passed away after getting sick. Usopp tells her all kinds of fun stories to make her smile and laugh!”

Oh my god. If that wasn’t the most wholesome shit you’ve ever heard. Luffy agreed with the sentiment openly, “Oh, so he’s a really good person?” That was putting it mildly. Luffy stepped closer and crouched down next to Piiman, “Can you take us to him? I wanna talk to him again.”

All three of the children agreed and led the way towards the mansion. Your group trailed behind the trio at a leisurely pace, minus Luffy who was bouncing around and checking out every little thing he saw with significant enthusiasm. 

The village was, admittedly, quite quaint. You felt charmed by your surroundings. From the looks of it, this was the village’s mainstreet. Various stores spotted either side of the path you were traversing down. A bakery, some carpentry shop, a toy store, and- 

You gasp and grab onto Zoro’s arm, “Look! A doctor's office!” Without wasting a second, you run over, dragging Zoro behind you despite his protests. You come to a stop in front of the door and reach forward to open it, only to notice the sign on the door. Out, come back later.

“Shit!” Just your luck that the doctor would be out when you just so happened to be passing by! You kicked the dirt under your feet in frustration. “Do you think the doctor will be back soon?”

“How should I know?” Zoro tugged his arm free and shot you a questioning look, “And why are you dragging me with you?”

Is this guy dense? “Oh, gee, I don’t know. Maybe because you have a stab wound?!” 

“I already told you, I slept it off.” The way Zoro rolled his eyes and spoke made it sound like you were the irrational one here. Before you could yell at him that, no, you cannot just sleep off a stab wound, he pulled up his shirt. The wound was where you remembered it being, but something was off. He was stabbed yesterday, but the wound looked like it was a week old, at the least. “See? It’s fine. Quit fussing about it.”

You’re no doctor, but you know that this can’t be right. You stare at him in shock and horror, “What are you?”

Zoro quirked a brow, “A swordsman?”

“More like an X-Men.”

Your words visibly threw him off. He frowned and his eyes narrowed. “A what?”

“A… It’s like…” Not for the first time, you found yourself confused about the meaning of words out of your own mouth. Where did that term come from? You strained yourself to track down what that word meant. “Superpowers? It’s someone with superpowers… I think?”

“So it’s someone with a devil fruit?” You guess that’s about right. Maybe you just got mixed up? You nod at Zoro’s statement. Zoro sighs and fixes his shirt, “Then just say that.”

“Yeah… guess I just got confused.” You scratch the back of your head. Calling your current state of mind confused was the understatement of the century. The mysteries of your mind shall go on to confound you another day.

“Hey! Are you guys coming or not?” Nami had stopped and turned to face you and Zoro with her hands on her hips. 

“Come on, maybe the doctor will be back in before we leave this island.” One of Zoro’s hands rested on his swords, while the other was on your upper back and firmly encouraging you to keep walking. Having no reason to object, you go along with it.

The walk to the mansion continues, but you pay very little mind to it now. It was hard to focus on your surroundings when your mind was zeroed in on your failing memory. All of the fragments you were getting were effectively useless, at least as far as you could tell. Well, you suppose there was that inkling of a memory you got back at the restaurant, but you stomped that one out for feeling too uncomfortable. Admittedly, that was probably a stupid move. What were you going to do? Block out your whole life if it turns out it wasn’t great or something worth remembering?

Dwelling on this was far from pleasant, however necessary it may be. You sigh and look around, wanting to scope out where you are now. The town was long gone, and you could see a tall fence not far from where you were, separating the estate behind it from the rest of the community. A ways away from where you guys were was the gate that allowed entrance. Two guards were posted outside of it, and you doubted that they would let your group in.

Tamanegi ran up to the bars of the fence and pointed through them at a tree right next to the home, “See, he’s talking to Kaya over there!”

You step closer to the fence and look where he’s pointing. Sure enough, you can see Usopp sitting on a branch next to a window. There’s a pale, blonde woman in the windowsill, who you’re assuming is Kaya. It’s all well and good that you’ve tracked down Usopp, but it looks like you’re going to have to wait for him to leave before you can talk to him. Sneaking into the estate would be out of the question, obviously.

Then you look over and see that Luffy has stretched his arms to reach the top of the fence and was taking some steps back. His rubbery arms were taught with tension. You gawk at him, not liking the look of this one bit, “What are you doing?”

Rather than anyone trying to answer this question, Luffy keeps stretching his arms while everyone else grabs onto him. Your voice raises, “What are all of you doing?” Nami grabs your arm, forcing you into whatever weird-ass plan was in the works here. You squirm and look around frantically, “What are we doing? What’s the plan here?”

The next thing you knew, Luffy jumped up and used his arms to send all of you sailing over the fence and through the air. Naturally, you’re screaming at the top of your lungs. But the children are too, so at least you aren’t alone in your terror. Instead of landing not far beyond the fence, you guys were maintaining a high speed that was bringing you closer and closer to the home. Mercifully, instead of crashing through the walls like a wrecking ball, you landed mere feet from the structure. People were colliding with the ground all around you. Nami had let go of you at some point, and you fell onto Luffy and then bounced off of him. His body had done a little bit to soften the blow, but it still knocked the wind out of you. You groaned in pain and curled into a ball while trying to catch your breath and make your head stop spinning.

Tamanegi crouched down next to you and poked your shoulder, “Are you okay?” Aside from some grass stains on his clothes, he looked completely fine. Ah, the resilience of youth. Blinking the spots out of your eyes, you force yourself up onto your feet while nodding wordlessly. By the time your ears stop ringing, you can make out Usopp’s voice desperately trying to explain your group’s abrupt arrival.

Kaya was leaning out of her window and staring at all of you with apprehension and confusion. Even with only part of her upper body visible, you could plainly see how frail her build was. The poor thing looked deathly pale, it was honestly more than a little concerning.

“Oh, these guys?! They’re just… my newest crew members!” The high-pitched, nervous laugh Usopp let out did little to help make his case.

“No, we’re not.” Luffy killed that lie instantly and with zero hesitation. He stood up and brushed himself up, seemingly unbothered from you essentially body slamming him. “I wanted to ask you for a favor, actually!”

“A favor? What is it?” Kaya, for whatever reason, was actually entertaining the idea of helping out someone who just slingshotted himself and his cohorts onto her property. What a shockingly understanding person. Luffy started to ask about getting a ship, but was interrupted by someone shouting.

“Who are you people? You aren’t supposed to be here!”

You look over your shoulder and see a tall, slender man in a dark suit rapidly approaching. Judging by his appearance, you feel like you can assume he is a butler or something of the like. The second he yelled, all three of the kids shrieked and hid themselves in your obnoxious looking coat. At least it’s getting some use outside of helping you blend in with clown pirates.

The man adjusted his glasses with the palm of his hand while sneering at all of you, making absolutely no attempt to hide his contempt for your presences. Which, admittedly, is fair given that you guys are actively trespassing. He glared at the large tree by the window before calling out, “Usopp, I know you’re there.”

Usopp slinked out from behind the tree, looking like he would have his tail between his legs if he possessed one. The man stared at him coldly, “Of course someone with as troublesome a reputation as you would be involved.”

Kaya attempted to ease the situation, “Klahadore, please! He doesn’t mean any harm!” That was one hell of a name. It sounded almost comically pretentious.

Luffy was entirely undeterred by the butler’s demeanor. “We just wanted to ask that girl something.” 

“You will do no such thing. All of you need to leave immediately.” His eyes narrowed at Usopp, “Especially you. Someone with a father like yours has no business being around Miss Kaya.”

“Excuse me?” Usopp was taken aback by that jagged statement.

“You’re the son of a filthy pirate. It’s distasteful for you to even be in the vicinity of the lady of the house.” 

Just like that, any understanding you had for this man being irritated with your group curled up and died. He isn’t a man doing his job, he’s just some classist prick that thinks he’s better than everyone else here.

“Klahadore, stop! That’s enough!” Even Kaya sounded appalled by his behavior.

Her words did nothing to stop Klahadore, who appeared to be taking great delight in this, “You two are from entirely different worlds. I can only assume that you interact with the lady with the intent of gaining something. Money, perhaps?” The accusation stunned everyone into silence, which he took as his cue to continue, “If I’m being quite honest, I pity you. It is truly unfortunate how you’ve been forced to live since your father abandoned his family and home for nothing more than the pursuit of treasure. You must hate him for it, surely.”

Usopp stormed towards Klahadore while Kaya was yelling at her rude-ass butler to stop and apologize for his words. Usopp came to a halt right in front of him, “Don’t you dare talk about my father like that! He’s a good man!”

Klahadore smirked, “Is that what you tell yourself? Another one of your lies, presumably. Though, I suppose that a lot of people would resort to such measures if stuck with a father like that. Well, assuming that he is actually your father.”

In an instant, Usopp’s fist connected with Klahadore’s jaw and sent him back several feet. Your mouth was gaping after hearing all of that. What a dick! Get his ass, Usopp! The kids using your coat for cover all popped their heads out and looked as shocked as you were.

Usopp took several steps forward, shouting at the butler, “Shut up! I am proud of who my family is! I’m proud that my father is a pirate and chasing his dreams! I might lie and tell stories, but I’ve never exaggerated a single thing about how I feel about my blood!”

Klahadore gritted his teeth and got back up, “Just like I thought, you’re a savage that resorts to violence at the drop of a hat. I suppose you must be the son of that pirate, you’re certainly acting as such, and that’s all the proof that I need to assume that you’ve been cozying up to the lady of the house in an attempt to get her fortune.”

“Why you,” Usopp lunged forward and grabbed him by his suit and pulled back his arm like he’s about to deliver another blow.

“Stop, Usopp!” Kaya pleaded desperately with him, “Please, there’s no need for violence. Klahadore isn’t a bad person, he’s just…trying to do what he thinks is best for me.” 

You shoot her a questioning look that you’re fairly certain she doesn’t even see. You’re not sure what insulting Usopp’s entire family tree has to do with “doing what’s best for her”. In your humble opinion, Usopp had every right to deck that stuck up prick one more time. Instead, he relented and backed away from him. A shame, really.

“You need to leave this place and never set foot here again.” Klahadore dusted off his clothes and was trying his damndest to look dignified despite just getting his shit rocked by a teenager.

Usopp walked past him, speaking lowly, “Fine. You don’t need to tell me twice.” He stomped away without another word, his shoulder hunched and fists clenched.

In a flurry, the trio taking refuge in your coat sprung out and ran up to Klaha-dick to defend their captain’s honor. Ninjin opened strong by calling him a stupid butler insisting that Usopp would never do any of that. Then all three of them dissolved into chanting ‘stupid head’ at him, so you’re pretty sure he’ll never emotionally recover from this.

Their brave verbal assault crumbled the second that Klahadore looked down at them. In the blink of an eye, they turned tail and returned to the sanctity of your coat. The butler’s gaze scanned over all of you with palpable disdain. He readjusted his glasses and waved an arm dismissively, “All of you need to leave, too.”

You had no problem with that. The less time spent here, the better. You carefully herded the kids hiding in your coat as you walked, which was not an easy thing to do with six more feet right under you, but you’ll manage.

After leaving the estate, you all congregated by a quiet field next to an unpopulated path. The boys have dispersed, mercifully, so you are now perched up on a fence. Luffy ran off a few minutes ago after one of the kids had told him where Usopp may have gone.

The crisp, clean air felt refreshing as you inhaled it deeply. You exhaled and tilted your head back to look up at the sky. In the back of your mind, you wonder if another weapon and mysterious note will fall out of it like in Orange Town. The note… Your hand dips into your coat pocket and digs out the folded up piece of paper. You unfold it and decide to read it again.

“Lucky”

What an interesting event

Losing your memories was not my intent

To aid in your journey

Please take this urumi 

“A”

You had hoped that reading it a second time would jog your memory, but it didn’t. You still have no idea who “A” is supposed to be. Were you two supposed to be close? Was this person a mere acquaintance? A weapons dealer with very unique methods? You can’t say.

Suddenly, the paper is plucked out of your hands. Your head snaps up and you see Nami standing next to you. Her brows furrow and she flips the paper over before shooting you a confused look, “Why are you staring at a blank piece of paper?”

What? You stammer as you try to speak, “B… Blank?”

“Yeah? Why are you staring so intently at a blank piece of paper?” Nami was alternating between staring a hole into you and glancing at the paper. Her eyes were looking right where the words were, yet she was seeing nothing? How is that possible?

All you can do is stare for a moment. Then, you laugh nervously and scratch the back of your head, “Oh, right! I was… I wanted to write something down on that, but then I remembered that I don’t have a pen on me!” That sounded dumb as hell.

Nami’s expression reflected that sentiment, “Really?”

“Yeah! You know me, I’m so forgetful!” You force out another unnatural laugh while snatching the paper out of her hand to stuff it back into your pocket. Hazarding another glance at Nami, you saw her looking at you with an extremely doubtful expression. Her stare was hard and it felt like she was seeing right into your soul. Fortunately, she sighed and looked away. 

“Alright, whatever you say.”

Something tells you that she’s going to bring this up again later, and you can only hope that you’ll have come up with a better excuse by then. Your mind was running in circles trying to rationalize how insane your most recent revelation was. Apparently, you have a magical piece of paper with words on it that only you can see. Sure! Why not?! This might as well happen with all the other weird shit going on right now! How your situation was able to progressively get weirder and weirder was beyond you, and at this point, you’re afraid of what else is going to happen next.

“Guys! A really weird man is backwards-walking this way!” Tamanegi comes sprinting over the hill spouting off that incredibly ominous warning.

You and your big mouth inside your head. Are you cursed? Are you experiencing the effects of a curse put on you? Hesitantly, you crane your neck to see what he’s talking about. Sure enough, you see a man wearing a blue blazer and a hat moonwalking right at you.

“Michael Jackson?”

The man stops mid moonwalk with one hand grasping his hat. He looks at you like you’re insane- which you may be, but that’s beside the point. The heart shaped sunglasses and weird cylinder-thing on his chin only make his whole vibe even stranger. His glasses slide down a little as he makes eye contact with you, “Michael Jackson? That isn’t even close to my name. I don’t know who that is, but he should only be so lucky as to be compared to me.” His neck snapped around to then regard the children, “And which one of you brats called me weird?! I’m not weird!”

“I’m going to have to side with him, you do seem pretty weird.” Nami was now focused on him, and you hoped this encounter would make her forget about the paper incident.

The totally-not-weird man did what looked like a dance move and glared at Nami, “I’m not! I’m a perfectly normal traveling hypnotist!”

“A hypnotist? That’s so cool! Can you show us something?” Piiman was staring at him hopefully, very much intrigued by the man’s profession. You just rolled your eyes. He was probably a con artist. 

“What? You really expect me to show off my abilities to any snot-nosed brat who asks?” The weirdo stoops down to stare menacingly at Piiman. Then, he stands up straight and pulls something out of his pocket, “Very well, watch this ring closely. I’m going to swing this back and forth, and on the count of one, two, Jango, you’ll feel sleepy.” Well, he certainly changes his mind easily.

You quietly snorted but watched the display nonetheless. This guy was absolutely full of shit. Your eyes follow the silver ring that looks suspiciously like a blade as he starts to count.

“One. Two. Jango!”

And then you promptly passed out.

[reddish-ash]

Sound from the cartoon "Little Longnose"(Карлик Нос)

[the-lonelyshepherd]

Heya, that candy fish from west virginia you reblogged a week or so ago was really cool! Do you know any other neat WV fish? I've never been, but it seems like a really pretty place ♥️

hi yeah!!! i’m assuming you’re talking about the candy darter

very cool (sadly very endangered) fish

i actually remember a few from when i was researching that area. key terms for WV fish are a) long and b) weird. they also have very accurate names.

grass pickerel

looks like grass and also a pickle. long and weird

2. longnose gar

long nose, and you guessed it! a gar. also long and weird

3. shovelnose sturgeon

another nose thing. looks like a shovel this time. long and weird.

4. american paddlefish

as expected it is american, a fish, and its nose looks like a paddle. also long and weird.

honorable mentions (doesn’t fit into every category of accurate name and long and weird)

5. least brook lamprey

doesn’t look like a lamp. maybe a little like a ray. but it is like the silliest looking lamprey, they’re usually scaryish but this one just looks dumb.

6. fathead minnow

haha the name sounds like it’s being bullied

7. orangespotted sunfish

a sunfish with orange spots. sunfish are underrated they’re so colorful and cool looking :)

those are my honorable mentions of west virginia! not that many little colorful guys but i hope the long weird ones suffice. thank you for the ask :)

[impactdial]

(a small drabble that was apart of something else i was writing that i unfortunately dropped but i thought it was still kinda funny. anyway, come get your sanuso crumbs, truthers!)

The next incident doesn’t happen until a few weeks later. 

Sanji had sat on a stool by the lawn while peeling and slicing a medley of vegetables, chewing on his smoldering cigarette as he worked. Everyone was already on the deck by the time Sanji thought to have a smoke as he finished up preparations for tonight’s dinner, and he glanced up occasionally to idly watch them.

Luffy played a game of charades with Brook and Chopper on the lawn, the latter guessing heartily when he wasn't squealing with laughter. Nami was busily marking up several maps while popping freshly cut fruit into her mouth as she worked (courtesy of their curly cook, of course). Franky seemed to be tinkering with some kind of prototype, enthusiastically chatting with Robin.

Sanji sighed, exhaling a thin smoky plume. He felt content. This felt right, their own established norm. 

Right before his mind could drift further, he saw Nami approaching with her empty bowl. He straightened his posture as he tossed quartered potatoes into a colander, hastily wiping his hands on a kitchen towel.

“Did you enjoy your fruit, my dear?” Sanji crooned cheerily, feeling his chest flutter when their navigator nodded and returned his smile.

“Yes, very much! Thank you, Sanji,” Nami replied, handing the bowl to him. Sanji felt pleasantly warm when she leaned on his shoulder ever so slightly, observing his work. “Is there anything I can help with?”

“Oh, I could never ask you to dirty your pretty hands with this!” Sanji insisted sweetly, dismissing her with a wave of his hand. He gestured to the uncut vegetables in a paper bag by his feet. “Usopp’s supposed to be helping me with the rest of these.” 

There’s a comfortable pause, with Nami just watching with mild fascination as Sanji sliced the peel from a potato in a single, unbroken line before cutting it free.

“Speaking of which,” Sanji began, tossing the freshly peeled potato aside and starting the process anew,”Have you seen Longnose? If I find out he’s ditched–”

Nami laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement. “I think he’s still working out with Zoro. I’ll go get him if you want.”

Sanji paused peeling for a moment. He lifted his head a touch to glance up at the navigator, waiting for a punchline that never came. The cook chewed his cigarette harder when neither of them spoke. She just looked at him with a knowing, sly expression.

“Since when? How long's he been doing that?” Sanji asked skeptically, trying not to scowl as he resumed his careful peeling. Usopp, who would cling to Sanji nearly in tears as he begged for protection, joining shitty moss-for-brains in his musclehead shenanigans? He’d be more likely to hurt Usopp than do anything remotely helpful for him, knowing the brute. 

Nami shrugged, combing her fingers through her loose, fiery hair before tossing it over her shoulder. 

“For a while now, I guess.” She hummed, her eyes trained on Sanji thoughtfully. “He looks good, huh? Real good. So handsome!”

Sanji squared his shoulders stiffly. Despite knowing there’s no denying Nami’s words, he couldn’t help but smolder a little with jealousy for her praise.

“Oh, Usopp!” 

Nami waved enthusiastically over to their sniper, who had just appeared on the deck trailing behind Zoro from their presumed workout, if the dampness of the form fitting tank top he was wearing was anything to go by. Sanji floundered, especially when Nami squeezed his shoulder as Usopp jogged over and his chest noticeably bounced. If it weren’t for Nami holding him in place, Sanji would’ve quickly retreated. 

“Hey!” Usopp greeted brightly before his gaze shifted over to Sanji and realization suddenly crossed his features, looking guilty. “Oh! Shit, sorry, I got caught up with Zoro. I can peel–”

“Don’t worry about it.” Sanji said curtly, avoiding looking directly at Usopp. He had already peeled five carrots by the time Usopp had jogged over.

“Actually, Usopp, would you move that crate into the pantry for us?” Nami asked sweetly. Usopp just raised a thick eyebrow at her, looking between his two crew mates like he’s trying to decipher the situation.

“Oh, um, sure? The one by the kitchen door?” 

“Yep, that’s the one!” 

Sanji finally afforded himself a glance as he witnessed their once scrawny sniper lift the heavy crate easily, no falter in his step as he disappeared into the galley and the mental image of visible back muscles shifting under glistening brown skin lasts every time Sanji blinked.

Nami merely smiled, patting the cook’s tense shoulder. “You’re welcome.” 

Sanji involuntarily choked, cigarette dropping from his now gaping mouth as he stared widely in shock at the still grinning Nami. His face felt impossibly hot when she tapped a finger under his chin and his jaw quickly snapped shut.

He couldn't think of anything to say as he watches Nami return to her maps, inner thoughts that consisted of nothing but Usopp's so- Why is he- Why can't I look away? making it difficult to argue otherwise.

By the time he manages to compose himself, Sanji realized in frustration he had unintentionally peeled every last vegetable in the bag. 

[chunkfunkgunk-offishal]

may i request......... a salp?

Today on CHUNK! FUNK! GUNK! We rate

the SALP:

10/10 Chunk

10/10 Funk

9/10 Gunk

WOAh-

Look at these guys!! And I thought that the Longnose Lancetfish looked like something out of Subnautica…

They’re little jelly dudes, no bones. Technically they fall more under squishy or gelatinous than they do ‘chunky’, but not having bones gives them a lot of points (Plus I very much want to hold one in my hand). High chunk. Looking at these guys, they’re so very unique and their behavioral patterns are really interesting! High funk. Finally, they are little jelly dudes, of course they have gunk! In addition to that, they also secrete nets made of mucous in order to eat, so they most certainly are gunky. To be honest, I can’t figure out if they’re gunky enough for a maximum gunk rating. They’re definitely slimy and they definitely MAKE mucous, but I feel like a creature should secrete SLIME in order to get a full 10/10 gunk. Then again, I’m just not sure! What do you guys think?

Overall: 10/10

I want to hold one. I think they would feel like peeled grapes.

Oh! Fun fact from my research: these guys are NOT related to jellyfish! They’re actually closely related to people, since they’re in the family of “animals with backbones”.

(I mean, they don’t really HAVE backbones anymore, but nobody’s perfect.)

Oh! Btw! More photos!

vv I made this :) vv

⚠️ Below this are images of salps being held out of water ⚠️

[spookiesmausoleum]

𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

This is a game that has extremely heavy themes, so please be aware of that! There's some things said that are extremely dark within their own context, so discretion is advised. Also obvious dialogue spoilers for the game.

Remember to specify muse for multi-muses!

"I hope this hurts."

"The only thing that's worth than dyin' is not gettin' paid."

"Man. Pony Express bosses really aren't chill at all, huh?"

"C'mon. One look won't hurt."

"How exactly is this group therapy committee planning on getting in there?"

"I nearly corked a kid once!"

"You were goddamn born fully corked!"

"For better or worse I'm captain now. I'll figure it out."

"He doesn't want to keep still anymore."

"What about the pain killers?"

"...You did make it through nursing school right?"

"I'll take care of it."

"Why do you think he did it?"

"Does it matter? What answer would make you feel any better?

"I have to believe our worst moments don't make us monsters, [name]."

"He tried to take us all down with him, [name]."

"As I see it there's two reasons to keep him alive at this point. Guess the important bit is that we all agreed to it. For one reason or another."

"I'm workin'. Blue collar fools can't afford to stop working even when the machine does. Go figure."

"I ain't letting anyone else mess around in there."

"I warned her, but it was in one ear and out the other."

"Then there's that teeny bopper only thinkin' with his downstairs longnose just like my useless kids back home."

"Are we doing the right thing...?"

"...Are you listening?"

"Couldn't sleep again, but I passed the psych eval?"

"I do wish you'd open up a little more, [name]."

"He acts as if I do these things for fun."

"I've known him a long time. He won't try any bullshit with me."

"They can't expect me to work miracles!"

"I don't know what it means, but... it sounds like fun."

"Passed inspection, right? Shouldn't be an issue."

"I take it [name] diagnosed you with "being sane" then?"

"...How are things otherwise? Off the record."

"I like it. We're in control here."

"How come it always feels like you're standing on the edge of a bridge with your feet in cement?"

"Is this enough? Should I just stay here because I've been successful at it?"

"It's terrifying. I think, "Am I figured out? Is this all I'll ever be?" Or do I take the risk and try something new? Even if I'm bad at it."

"Hm. I guess I get it. You've reached the highest rung on this ladder and now you're thinkin' you might be on the wrong ladder altogether. Still a long way down from the top no matter how you look at it... While I'm still climbing and climbing."

"Hey I believe in you! Here. On Earth. Doesn't matter."

"...It's all mouthwash."

"I s'pose we'll smell good at least."

"Guess anyone could get seriously blasted off this stuff."

"Yeah and kill you in the process."

"...Hey. What's wrong?"

"That's all it said on the report from management. We will receive the paycheck for this delivery. I don't know anymore than that."

"...So I guess you got what you wanted. Without the guilt."

"...[name]. If I had known..."

"I can go back to my, how'd you put it? "Struggle of a life.""

"I'm just working on my life being a place I don't have to fucking escape!"

"We're the ones you're trying to escape! Leave the dirt behind now that your boots are clean."

"You just couldn't frame it to yourself in a way that still kept you as the hero."

"Let's have some fucking cake, hmm?"

"Come on. Stop with the noise."

"I know what everyone is thinking. The way they look at me. What can I even say?"

"I hope these make you feel fucking better."

"Take responsibility."

"Sometimes you can only get the subpar stuff. That' what makes the really good stuff, well, good, right?"

"Hey. We all tried to escape. It didn't work for any of us."

"I've thought many times, "Hey is this what peace feels like? And is this good enough?" If I'm being real it certainly isn't the best. So all I can try to do is make my life one I'm not trying to run from all the time."

"Mom found this internship for me. Such a slacker she said."

"I don't know. I just never know what I wanted to be. Never was good at anything."

"We're not done yet, [name]."

"Listen, listen! This is the best part. Aa-waay-oooo!"

"You're a mess, [name]."

"[name] pullin' the plug on the party before it's the last call!"

"you thinking about drinking that too?"

"Honestly, yeah. It'd probably just make me sick. Wouldn't fix anything, as much as I'd like it to."

"...You're not serious."

"Look I've entertained your sentimentality up until now, but I'm actually trying to fix things [name]!"

"...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to—"

"...I don't think I understood the pressure you were under before. Fuck. And you tried to tell me."

"Our worst moments don't make us monsters, huh?"

"I'll get us both through this."

"You heard [name]. I wouldn't put it past them to do something extreme right now."

"What would you have done?"

"Anything. Anything. You, the crew, you're all my responsibility."

"I know you'd never give me the gun to protect myself, so the least I can do... is make sure he never gets it either."

"...The bleeding won't stop. Just try to sit still [name]."

"It's alright, [name]. Calm down."

"I though you were dumber than a can of paint, always chewing me ear off about something. Useless ray of goddamn sunshine. Not an ace student, career workhorse or force of ambition. Just a damn good kid trying his best. You coulda taught an old fool like me a lot."

"Why can't any of you give me some time to fucking think!?"

"How do you still not understand? It's over. End of the fuckin' line."

"Take care of it."

"All I ever hear is how great of a leader you are. God, it's so annoying."

"Or this can be remembered as a tragedy. Despite what must have been the best efforts of it's acclaimed captain. The crew never found. No one survived to tell the tale."

"You're standing at the top. Feet in cement. I get it now. Right?"

"[Name], t-tell me you didn't."

"I won't give up on you, even like this, I believe in you. We're going to make it through this."

"I have something to say. So shut the fuck up and listen."

"So I got a collar shirt, a mortgage. Everything that makes a good man."

"I wanted to believe I was never one set-back away from my worst self."

"I've got nothing to hide. I'll face the music. I can see myself for what I am. But you? A cowardly, selfish motherfucker and you can't even see it."

"[Name]. I'm going to fix everything. We're going to make it."

"Fuck you."

"I know what you think of this predicament of yours. Poor you. Caged and misunderstood."

"Shut up. [Name] tried his best. I did too, but he's the better man."

"You really mean all that, huh?"

"I fucked up, but I can make things right."

"You always had my back. I ended up I ended up hurting you even though I was trying to save us."

"It's like you said, together we can fix anything."

[imbunnysan]

fanart "little longnose"

[usoppinggg]

Fun with Flora

Usopp, Robin, and Luffy talk plants and pop greens.

my gift for @hadideedee for the 2024 @op-secret-santa event! <3 happy holidays!

Flora and fauna soak up the sun's midday warmth, leaves swaying with the gentle breeze. Above them, a voice, quiet, jocular, and familiar speaks. The plants listen to it raptly, leaning toward the voice just as they stretch toward the sun. 

“Nami, Zoro, Vivi, Broggy–they were all solidified into wax!” the voice says. “And nearby was Luffy, sitting on a picnic blanket and enjoying a nice cup of tea! Seeing him casually sipping tea while our friends had turned into wax infuriated me! I couldn’t believe our captain was being so careless! But through my fury, I could see a symbol painted onto his back, and I realized that Luffy’s indifference wasn’t his at all!  The sly Miss Goldenweek had once again used her Colours Trap to force Luffy into his feeling of tranquillity. I knew it was up to me to save him.

“My mighty steed Karoo and I were completely in sync as we started our counterattack. We moved as though we shared a mind, expertly dodging Mr. 5’s exploding attacks. Karoo got me in position to free Luffy from the painter’s curse, burning his shirt to ashes with a Fire Star. But Mr. 5 wasn’t done with us–he sent us flying with his exploding breath while Mr. 3 turned himself into a giant wax mecha. Just as our backs were against the wall, I realized that all wasn’t lost. All we needed to do was melt the wax off of our friends. But it wouldn’t be easy. 

"As Luffy fought against Mr. 3, I secretly coated a rope in oil and instructed Karoo to run it all over the wax structure. Valiantly, Karoo did his duty, even as Mr. 5 tried his damndest to explode him into tiny ducky pieces. I had to endure while Miss Valentine attempted to crush me with her Devil Fruit power. Having a pretty girl sit on you sounds good in theory, but it’s not all it’s cracked up to be!”

Usopp pauses his story as a spark of recognition goes off in the back of his mind. He looks over his shoulder and smiles at Robin as she walks up the steps to the top deck of Sunny’s garden. 

“The tales of Little Garden, hm? That’s one of my favourites.” 

Usopp grins. “Me too! These guys seem to like it as well,” he says, pointing to his audience–his garden of pop greens. 

“Well don’t let me interrupt you,” Robin says as she settles in, sitting across from Usopp in front of her flowerbed. “I wouldn’t want to have them upset with me.”

Usopp chuckles and does as he’d bid, finishing up the story of the Straw Hats’ adventures in Little Garden. When he’s done, he’s met with Robin’s applause and does a little bow. 

“Hopefully that’ll get the mandrakes to settle down.”

“They’ve still been misbehaving?” Robin asks. She chuckles as Usopp lets out an annoyed huff. 

“Yes! This batch has been particularly sensitive to the weather, so they’ve been pissed about all the crazy weather changes we’ve been having lately. They threw a fit this morning because the air was a little drier than normal. I got Brook to play some of their favourite music, which seemed to help, but they’re still being stubborn.”

“My gardenias are also giving me trouble,” Robin shares. “I’m having difficulties getting them to bloom despite my best efforts. I’m getting quite frustrated. ” 

“Children,” Usopp sighs. “So ungrateful.”

“Very much so.”

“Y’know, back on the Boin Islands, the man-eating gardenias gave me a lot of trouble, too. You wouldn’t believe how many tried to eat me! A couple of ‘em came really close to making me their next meal.”

“Is that so? Tell me more, Longnose. Maybe there’s a clue to getting my flowers to bloom.”

Usopp scoffs. “Yeah, if your flowers are the carnivorous kind.” 

“It’s not too late to find out,” Robin says cryptically. 

Archaeologist listens intently as sniper recounts his run-ins withs carnivorous plants on the Boin Archipelago, constantly escaping death using his wits and clever inventions. Usopp cringes and shudders when Robin adds a morbid quip or asks a concerning question about his time away from the crew.

While Robin contemplates Usopp’s anecdotes, she picks up her well-loved watering can. She frowns at the chip’s in the metal’s custom paint job.

“Usopp, would you mind giving my watering can a repaint? Some of it’s chipped.”

“Of course not, Robin! I can give it a touch-up tonight. Want anything new? Additions or a new design?”

“Hm. I like the ghoul you’ve already painted. But perhaps you could include some blood dripping from her fangs.” 

“Do you want guts and intestines in its jaw, too?” Usopp asks sarcastically. He winces as Robin’s eyes light up. “No, Robin, I didn’t mean it!”

“Could you do that?”

Usopp closes his eyes and sighs, letting his shoulders hang. “Yes. Yes, I can, Robin.”

She smiles. “That’d be lovely, thank you, Usopp.”

The Straw Hats continue to chat amicably as they care for their respective plants, sharing tips, tricks, and complaints. It’s a warm, pleasant day aboard the Thousand Sunny, the ship easing its way across gorgeous blue waters.

The duo are soon interrupted by a loud and familiar shout, and the similarly familiar sound of rubber snapping. 

“USOPP! ROBIN!” 

They grin at the sight of their captain flying towards them. Robin crosses her arms and creates a net of arms for him to land on as he laughs without a care in the world. 

“Hello, Captain.”

“Luffy! Hey, man, what’s up?”

“Sanji wouldn’t give me any more snacks and kicked me out of the kitchen,” Luffy gripes as he rolls out of Robin’s net. He bounds his way over to Usopp and sits behind him, with his chest to Usopp’s back, legs encasing Usopp’s. 

Usopp happily leans into his captain’s embrace as Luffy wraps his arms around his torso and rests his chin on his shoulder so he can peek at Usopp’s bed of pop greens. 

“Which ones are you growing now, Usopp?” he asks, causing the sniper to shiver as the warm air of his breath hits Usopp’s ear. “Is it the banana boat? Ooh, or is it the wolf that eats people? That one’s so cool! Or do you have a new one you haven’t shown us yet?”

Robin watches as a pleased smile lights up Usopp’s face as their captain compliments his beloved pop greens. It’s a familiar sight, as Usopp is always happy to have his talents and hard work praised. But her keen eyes recognize that the smile that graces his face when Luffy is the one to give him a kind word is different than when it comes from anyone else.

“As a matter of fact, I’m working to develop a couple of hybrids between some of my plants,” Usopp explains. “Lately, I’ve been trying to combine my Skull Bomb Grass with the Green Star Devils for a super-powered attack. If it works how I intend it to, the Devils will inject enemies with the Bomb Grass’ toxins to paralyze them. Temporarily and non-lethally, of course… I hope.”

Usopp puffs up his chest as Luffy and Robin marvel at his project with oohs and aahs and hums of curiosity. 

“Sounds like it’ll be very effective,” Robin smiles. “Have you done any trials? I’m interested in observing the paralysis process.”

“I haven’t gotten that far yet, but I think I’m pretty close…”

Luffy sags against Usopp as his conversation with Robin becomes full of scientific jargon. Just as boredom begins to settle in, Usopp leans forward as he reaches toward the plants in the soil. Luffy perks up and excitedly wiggles in place, tightening his grip around Usopp.

“Usopp! What are you doing now? Can I help? You’ll let me, right?”

“I dunno, Luffy. This is very delicate work.”

“Please, Usopp? I’ll be super careful, promise! And you can show me how!”

Robin chuckles behind her hand as Usopp hums while he pretends to think. Luffy pushes his bottom lip out in a pout, shoving his face closer to Usopp’s in the hopes that his expression will convince the sniper to let him help. Usopp looks at their captain, Luffy unconcerned as Usopp’s nose presses into his eye.

“Alright, fine! BUT! You have to promise that you’ll listen to my instructions and do as I say. When it comes to my pop greens, I’m in charge, got it?”

Luffy nods enthusiastically with his trademark grin on his face. “I promise, Garden Captain Usopp!” He salutes and then detangles himself from Usopp and sits by his side, bouncing in place while he waits for instruction.

Robin approaches and sits on Usopp’s other side. “May I provide some assistance as well, Garden Captain?” she asks.

Usopp lights up and nods, much in the same way Luffy just did. He’s obviously excited to share his expertise and his work with his friends. And is delighted by the newest iteration of his title. “Of course! Alright, my pupils, today I’m gonna show you two how to cultivate the seeds of my Green Star Devils.”

Luffy and Robin listen intently as Usopp teaches them the ins and outs of tending to pop greens. He shows them his field book filled with detailed notes, complete with diagrams, tables, and illustrations. His explanations are clear and entertaining, keeping his crewmates’ attention.

“I keep some of the seeds to use in battle and others to grow new plants,” Usopp explains. “So first, we’ll collect the seeds left behind by the last batch. As you can see, the seeds are way bigger than typical flower or vegetable seeds.”

“They’re like marbles!” Luffy remarks as he holds the seed Usopp places in his palm. Robin inspects the one Usopp gives to her.

“Yeah! They’re colourful like marbles, too. The different patterns make it easy to tell which plant it sprouts. The Devil’s seeds have this purple and green swirling pattern.

“Now, first, we’ll get the seeds from the budded Devil we have here in the dirt. They’re usually pretty defensive, but they sleep deeply once they’re fed. I already fed them lunch, so now they’re napping. You can collect their seeds pretty easily when they’re like this. It’s a different story when they’re up and kicking, though.”

“What do you feed ‘em?” Luffy asks.

“They’re not picky, but mice and other rodents are their favourite. Some of them really like fruit, too. If I’m lucky, Nami will let me feed them her tangerines. They really like those.”

“Can we collect the seeds now?” Robin asks.

“Yeah! They’re usually hidden under their leaves. Robin, you collect the seeds from those two Devils over there, and Luffy and I will get the seeds from these two,” Usopp instructs. “It helps if you talk to them.”

“Okay, here I go!” Luffy announces as he brings his hands toward one of the sleeping Devils. “Hey, little guy! I’m Luffy, the man who’s gonna be King of the Pirates. I’m helping Usopp today. I’m gonna borrow these seeds from you so Usopp can do his awesome sniper stuff, okay?” Luffy suddenly reels back and sticks his finger in his mouth while he glares at the plant he was tending to. “Ouch! It bit me!”

“Gentle, Luffy, gentle! I know I said they’re deep sleepers, but you still have to be careful–you can’t just dig your hands in there or they’ll get pissed! Here, let me show you.”

In a reverse of their previous position, Usopp kneels behind Luffy to guide his hands as the rubber man collects the seeds left by his previous greens. 

“Lift the leaf with one finger and hold the seed you see with the other hand. You’ve gotta grab and twist it to pull it loose, kind of like you’re picking an apple. But don’t grip it too tightly or you’ll squish the seed.  They’re pretty resilient, but knowing you and your freakish strength, you’ll make it into a jam.”

“Do they make yummy jam?” Luffy asks.

“No! No, they do not!” Usopp pinches Luffy’s cheeks and gives them a forceful stretch. “If you squish my seeds, I’ll kill you, you hear me?”

“Okay, okay, I won’t,” Luffy relents, “so let go!” 

Usopp gives Luffy’s cheeks a final pinch before he lets him go to take hold of Luffy’s hands once more.  “Alright, try again. Just be gentle.”

“It helps if you hold them near the top of the seed,” Robin advises, showing Luffy the three seeds she’s procured. 

“No fair!”

“It’s not a competition, Luffy, relax!” Usopp turns to glare at Robin, who simply smiles at him. “Robin, you menace, don’t rile him up, please! …And good job!”

“Okay, I’m trying again!” Luffy announces.

He is much more careful this time, locating a seed with Usopp’s gentle guidance. His tongue sticks out of his mouth and his brow furrows in concentration as he tries again. A grab, twist, and pull and Luffy’s second attempt is successful. “Got it!”

“Nice work!  Keep going!” Usopp encourages. “They’ll grow some more in a couple of days.”

As Luffy and Robin collect the seeds, Usopp keeps his perch on Luffy’s back and watches over them. He huddles closer to Luffy to leech off his captain’s warmth, shivering as the warm pleasant wind is replaced by a glacial gust.

“What’s with this freezing wind all of a sudden?” he whines.

“Nami did tell us yesterday we’d be sailing through a cold front as we approach our next destination, a winter island,” Robin reminds him.

Usopp clicks his tongue. “Damn, I forgot about that. This better not piss off the mandrakes, I swear.” He reluctantly removes himself from Luffy to walk over to the mast and hit a button on the panel built into it. As he does, a see-through dome comes down to cover the top deck to keep all of the greenery safe and warm. 

A moment later, the speaker also built into the mast crackles to life and Nami’s voice rings out. “We’re moving through a cold front, people! It’s gonna get real cold real quick, so come to the aquarium to get your winter gear if you don’t want to freeze.” 

“I’m all finished,” Robin informs Usopp, presenting him with her haul. 

“Me, too!” Luffy exclaims. 

“Fantastic work, my disciples! I thank you for all of your hard work.”

Usopp collects the seeds, placing them in a pouch he places in his bag. He clicks his tongue as Luffy presses into his space, demanding his attention.

“Usopp, let’s play in the snow when we get to the winter island, okay?”

“Yeah we will, but first let’s get our jackets, I’m freezing!”

“Maybe Usopp wouldn’t be so cold if he wore a shirt.”

“Oh? Getting sassy with your Garden Captain, huh? That sort of mutiny cannot go unpunished!”

“Come and do somethin’ about it, then,” Luffy taunts.

The two are locked in a competitive gaze for a handful of moments before they lunge at each other, Usopp tackling Luffy to the ground. Robin watches in amusement as the young men tussle, shouting and laughing as they roll on the deck. 

Their scuffle comes to a halt as Luffy suddenly gasps, hands clamped on Usopp’s shoulders and pinning him to the deck. He grins, shaking Usopp slightly.

“Usopp! Let’s get Sanji to make us hot chocolate!”

“With lots of marshmallows!” Usopp agrees, eyes just as wide and smile just as excited as Luffy’s. 

“And chocolate sauce! And caramel! And sprinkles!”

“Ew, Luffy, don’t drool on me!”

Luffy springs to his feet and pulls Usopp up to join him, keeping the sniper steady as he stumbles. “Let’s go!” He grabs Usopp with one arm and stretches the other to hold onto the railing a few feet away. He takes a couple of steps back and launches them into the air.

“Wait, Luffy, the dome–!”

Usopp’s warning comes too late. Luffy has flung them straight into the Franky-installed insulating dome, and the two of them hit the window with a solid THUNK. 

Robin laughs aloud as they fall and land on the deck in a heap. Usopp’s yelling is nearly indecipherable as he curses Luffy’s recklessness and complains about the pain he’s now been forced to endure. His complaints fall on deaf ears as Luffy laughs, looking up at the glass curiously. 

“Whoops! Forgot about that!”

“I’m gonna kill you!” Usopp fumes.

“Not if Luffy doesn’t kill you first,” Robin gibes.

Usopp turns to direct his ire toward Robin, but his complaints are muffled by Luffy’s hands, which clamp over his mouth.

“No arguing!” Luffy insists. “It’s hot chocolate time! Let us out!”

Usopp pounds his fist against Luffy’s head. “Go down the ladder, genius! Don’t let the cold air in here!” Usopps huffs in frustration before he climbs onto Luffy’s back, arms around the other man’s neck. 

“Now hurry up and get us to the kitchen!” 

Luffy bounds them to the ladder hatch and hurls them down, his laughter harmonizing with Usopp’s excited but fearful screams.

With a fond smile on her face, Robin follows them down to the galley. There’s a hot cup of chocolate calling her name.

[mercurymascara]

[beanghostprincess]

Omg your Sora/Banchina post is so good 😭 i loved read this, and like, Sanji's brothers (and sis) would be really protective of Sora and their brother, so when Sanuso start to date would be kinda a chaos

When Sanuso starts dating, it is the most chaotic thing in the world.

You see, the brothers are always being a bit mean to Sanji because he is a crybaby but it's just in the regular, normal, sane way siblings act. But if there is any possibility of Sanji being in danger/away from them, they get really protective.

They don't have any issues with Banchina and, in fact, they love her so much it's insane. They enjoy her company and help and they're always asking when she's coming over too because "Mommy looks happier when she is around, so we want her to come back!". Until one day they don't have to keep asking because she is constantly there. And they love her. They are... Intense and clingy with Sora, yes, and won't dare to leave her side either. And if they realize there is something romantic going on, they won't hesitate to be even more protective. But in general they accept Banchina right away because, again, she looks happier than when she is alone with her thoughts (<- Sora tries to hide it, but they did run away from Germa, after all. She is worried Judge might find them. Always thinking what would have happened to her little angels if she hadn't saved them. Always, always taking care of them).

But!!!!!! It's a different story with Usopp.

You know, when they meet, they are kids. And Sanji is a sweetie pie. And naive. And maybe Usopp gets a bit carried away with his lies and maybe Sanji believes all of them. But they're cute little lies and they always make Sanji happy, so it's fine. Basically, more storytelling than anything. And it's not that the siblings don't like him! In fact, Usopp's aiming/shooting skills are already pretty good and they're impressed by that. Always asking him if he can do tricks with them.

Buuuut. Usopp is younger and anxious and God the brothers love to tease him about Sanji and they try to make him stutter when he is lying/storytelling to make fun of him in front of Sanji. It's just silly and it's all kids games. Nothing cruel. But!!!!! But there is also the realization that "they like each other. Usopp likes Sanji". And at first, it's just a silly thing so they make fun of them, but as they grow up together, their crushes on each other also do and it's like,,, It's something they learn to live with. They get used to it.

They've been in love forever and they are 17/15 and haven't confessed yet and it is just their normal behavior. Everyone can see they're in love. And when the "they are actually in love and it's not only a crush thing" sinks in, the brothers do get a bit protective. Because Sanji knows how to defend himself thanks to them but, again, Zeff's influence is crucial for Sanji's character so I think here he'd be just a little tiny bit softer than usual? Not really. Same personality. But the sibs just feel like they need to take care of him. Not gonna explain this word for word but-- There is obviously the "we're so done with you pining over longnose, PLEASE just confess so we don't have to hear you anymore" conversation with Sanji and "if you hurt him we will kill you. We could do it. Eyes closed. No hesitation. Don't you even dare make him cry once-" with Usopp. They regret it immediately, tho, because when Sanji and Usopp start dating they become ever more annoying and clingy and it's,, Impossible.

They all share a room. Not really. Reiju has her own room and the brothers sleep on a different one. Bunkbeds and everything. And even if they didn't sleep there together, the house is small and the walls are thin and they can't have any privacy in there. And they're always eating together because of course they all love Sanji's cooking, but he is always so cheesy with Usopp they prefer to kick them out of there and eat leftovers. This starts when they're 17/15, right? So it's two... Whole years... Dealing with them... Until they go with Luffy.....

Oh!!!!!! And Reiju. She is the sweetest and gets along with Usopp SO well. She and Sora are always talking with him about Sanji and they're so so so supportive. Reiju is the one to always defend these two from the other 3 idiots.

But it's alright because the brothers always find ways of teasing their new brother-in-law ("I'm not married to Sanji, though-" / "With the way he looks at you, you might want to start preparing for the wedding already"). So at least they have fun. But sometimes they look at Usopp in a weird, defensive way and he gets,,,, Scared.

[thenewnio]

My OC Mungo, a goose turned human by an enchantment.

Her personality as a goose is unchanged, though; She’s basically like that horrible goose from Untitled Goose Game.

Her design was inspired by these three ladies: Greta from Little Longnose, Odette from The Swan Princess and Izabella Miko from the music video of “Mr. Brightside”.

[void-ink-studios]

Day 25: Seahorse

Sometimes, it's important to simply exist in the beautiful world we find ourselves in. I think me and Dr. Branston forget that sometimes in our lines of work, always traveling, always moving, always sticking our noses into the various little secret hiding spots. So... Today we just floated. We floated on our boat and watched the fish swim and the water drift. We spotted a Coiled Longnose, drifting along just like the current. Dr. Branston said we might be happier if we took some more lessons from creatures like it. I laughed. But a part of me wonders if she's right.

[Prompt List]

[Previous] - Day 24: Pistol Shrimp

[Next] - Day 26: Horseshoe Crab

————————————–

Like the art? Please Reblog!

Interested in a Commission? Check out my post HERE!

Did you know I have a Ko-Fi? Check it out HERE!

[kazimakuwabara]

May The Best Man Win

Summary: Sanji has words with Zoro, who seems to have taken a sudden interest with Usopp. (SanUso, light Zolu, 1.2k words) ((written for @sanusoweek ))

***

“What are you doing?” Sanji's hiss, was more of a roar as he banged open the door to the crow’s nest.

Zoro didn’t glance up from his bench, his massive dumbbells lifted high over his head. He was sweating in the midday sun, already about halfway through his workout. He couldn't be arsed to stop now, not when he had a good burn going. He counted off another rep before he even bothered answering Sanji, “789… 800… What d’ya want, Curly-bro?”

Slamming a tray of snacks, as well as a pitcher of cucumber water on a chair, Sanji fumed, “You and Usopp.”

“803…804… Me and Usopp, what?” Zoro asked, still not dignifying Sanji with his full attention.

“You’ve been hanging around him!” Sanji snarled. He stayed on the other end of the Crow's nest, out of Zoro's way. He was livid and angry enough to kill, but he'd rather kick Zoro to death when he didn't have his dumbells over his head.

Zoro paused a moment, to roll his head to the side, and peek at Sanji from his bench, before resuming his count, “806… 807… He’s my Nakama.”

“That is not what I mean Marimo, and you know it!” Sanji snapped back, voice on edge, and face flushed.

“811… 812… Ah. Oh. Well, Usopp’s pretty.”

It was silent, save for Zoro counting off his reps.

“What.”

“821… 822… Hnnn… Or handsome I s’pose. He looks good… he got stronger too. I’m proud of him. He’s changed, and he keeps changing still… I’ve noticed. And I like what I see. He's put a lot of hard work in... I can appreciate hard work.”

Sanji kicked the dumbbell out of Zoro’s hands, and back into its rest. 

Zoro sat up turning a fierce glare on Sanji, “You’re lucky I don’t run you through. I’m only not going for my swords because you didn’t knock my weights to the floor.”

Sanji’s face was glowing red with anger, “You know… you know Longnose is off limits.”

“Oh?” Zoro asked a brow lifted into his hairline, “And why is that? Cuz you liked him first?”

Sanji sputtered.

For a week now, Zoro had been sticking close to Usopp. It started with Zoro sitting next to Usopp for meals. This wasn't too abnormal, but Zoro had started speaking to Usopp in low tones over the din of the crew's chatter. Whatever he was saying, made Usopp flush. Then Zoro started napping around where Usopp liked to draw on deck, in those few moments where Usopp wasn't chasing Luffy and Chopper around.

Sanji had almost spilled a tray of drinks at the sight of Usopp napping against the Swordsman's chest.

What had really, really, really started to set the cook's temper ablaze, is that Zoro, sword-focused, stupid, Zoro, had gone bug hunting with Usopp. Usopp had asked Zoro along, and Zoro had grinned a sly slow grin, and agreed. The way he looked at Usopp in that moment... Sanji had dropped a small bag of onions at the sight of it. And then the pair waltzed off the ship, and returned hours later with a bunch of beetles to show Chopper and Luffy. Usopp had been ecstatic, and while he prattled on and on to their Captain, and their little doctor, Zoro had tucked his hand in the small of Usopp's back, as if it belonged there.

"You were not interested in him before!" Sanji snapped.

Zoro sighed, as if tasked with a great chore, but admitted, "True..."

Zoro spun his legs around the bench, and got up with a sigh. Striding over to the restorative snacks Sanji had brought him, Zoro poured himself a glass of water, “It doesn’t matter who likes who first, or who feels what the strongest. What matters…” Zoro downed the drink, snapping his unscarred eye to Sanji’s face, “is doing something about it.”

Sanji’s jaw clenched, his teeth aching from the force of his grinding.

“And while you’re too scared to do anything about it, Curly-brow… I am not,” Zoro concluded pouring himself another glass of water.

“So you…you’re gonna tell him you like him?” Sanji demanded after the silence stretched out too long.

“I’m letting him warm up to the idea that I’m interested first. Don’t want to scare him off,” Zoro answered frankly, “You gonna do something about it?”

“You Goddamned right, I’m gonna do something about it!” Sanji snarled, stomping towards the trap door that led out of the crow’s nest, and kicked open the trap door, "I've been at his side, noticing him since... since that blasted fucking sky island!"

Zoro fished out a still crisp cucumber from the pitcher of water, and took an obnoxiously loud bite out off it, "Yeah but, you didn't do anything about it."

Sanji snapped his head around to glare at Zoro, his nostrils flaring, and his cheeks red, "Well, I'm going to do something about it now!"

“So…It’s a competition then?” Zoro asked.

Sanji turned in full, so he could level Zoro with the full weight of his glare.

Zoro smiled and saluted his water at Sanji, “May the best man win.”

“You fucking moss-headed, shit nose, No-brained, shitty fucking swordsman-” Sanji snarled, but left the crow’s nest, ranting as he descended down and away from Zoro, his mind a mess with actions he needed to take.

Zoro waited for Sanji’s voice to disappear, and then an additional ten seconds after that. Casually over his shoulder, his eyes directed at a crate near the corner of the room, he called, “Oi, Usopp! He’s gone.”

Usopp, face a dark almost purple, popped out from within the crate, “I can’t believe that worked.”

Zoro snorted, “I can. Idiot’s been moonin’ after you since… fuck… you heard him. The island in the sky. Noland and all that shit.”

“I just don't believe it! Not since Skypiea!” Usopp lamented, stumbling out of the crate he'd been hiding in, “There’s no way.”

“Yes, way!” Zoro rumbled, and then held out a palm, “Money.”

“Oh, right!” Usopp produced a large wad of cash, money Nami had given Usopp under much laborious work over her Clima-tact. It was a hefty sum, but Usopp passed it over to Zoro without hesitation.

Zoro took it grinning, “Easiest booze money I’ve ever made!”

“I still can’t believe this is working!” Usopp mumbled.

“I can. Nothing spurns a man like competition,” Zoro sighed, sitting back down on a bench on the outer wall of the crow’s nest, “I just don’t get why you don’t say something. You’re a brave warrior of the sea, you confess first!”

Usopp flushed, sinking into his shoulders a bit, “I just want a little insurance… he’s a hard nut to crack! I just wanted to be sure… that he liked me. If... if he didn't, or wouldn't consider me-”

“Anyone would be lucky to have you!” Zoro rumbled, cutting off Usopp before he could start listing his faults. With his eyes narrowed in a protective older brother glare, Zoro added, “If he keeps being this worthless, just forget him. He doesn’t deserve you! If he’s not begging you to be his in a few days' time, I’ll kick him to the curb myself!”

Usopp smiled, “Gee Zoro… thanks…”

Zoro grunted in response. 

Usopp tiptoed to the trap door, and after being sure Sanji wasn’t below, he started to descend. He paused before he fully left, calling out, “Zoro?”

“Huh?”

“Luffy likes napping with you the best by the way.”

Zoro froze, and Usopp lifted his brows at Zoro in that knowing sort of way.

Sweetly, Usopp added, "He's been sulking since you and I napped together."

Zoro coughed, “You’re as bad as Nami! Get out of here!”

Usopp snickered, climbing down the ladder with a high, half-sung, “Perish the thought!”

  End