#and i threw in a beckman too

[vrieseasees]

Scrawny lil lesbian Shanks and fem Mihawk

[urinarythreatinfection]

Shoutout to tomboys, you’re great and valid. Someone asked me for this in a comment section but I can't @ them but here you go!

One piece men x tomboy reader. Shanks, Sanji, Zoro.

Shanks

Shanks first met you at a bar.

It might be cliche but he gets fawned over by women (and men) often, you were different.

When you came up to him he already noticed you weren’t the most feminine, but you seemed cool so he didn’t mind.

Before he could lay on some charm, though, you had challenged him to a drinking contest with ridiculous rules.

If you won, you got to join his crew.

Immediately it was like the alcohol in his hand didn’t matter, your boldness was too amusing.

“What’s in it for me? Surely a pretty woman like you has something to offer?”

He didn’t mean what he alluded to, just a test to see what you were like.

When you said you had information on something he would definitely like, well, what kind of a pirate wouldn’t be tempted?

What he didn’t expect is how good of a drinker you were.

Shanks gets drunk, but his mind will stay sober, but you were drinking more than he could handle.

It was a tie, the bar ran out of alcohol.

The both of you were on the verge of passing out when he gave you a thumbs up and said you were in, you gave one back and said you’d give him the info too.

It was the worst hangover since the first time he got blackout drunk when young but man was it an amazing investment.

Turned out you knew info on a rival of his causing trouble around his territories, and you were an amazing fighter.

Shanks couldn’t help himself, he might’ve exploded if he tried not to flirt with you.

Flirts turn to touching and touching leads to the bed, you’re good.

Perfect, really, he fell hard for you.

A capable woman who’s fun to be around, gets along with his crewmates, and is great in bed?

He doesn’t care that you aren't feminine, you’re the most attractive woman he could ask for.

Shanks asked you out and you accepted, now he’s your #1 supporter.

Playing a drinking game? His bets are on you.

Threw a guy who touched you across the bar? Way to go!

You think you can beat him in a fight? Sure, just don’t mind if he gets a little handsy during it~

Overall there is no clear calm and smart one in the relationship, both of you are dumb and Beckman couldn’t be any more unhappy.

Sanji

Sanji is completely put off.

When you first met he was absolutely ready to fawn over you but the moment you, instead of getting mad or flirting back, patted him on the shoulder with a “Thanks, man!” he just stood there.

He almost looked around as if someone else said it.

The way you speak, act, the way you are, it’s like everything in him is rejecting it.

Women are supposed to be sacred, beautiful creatures to be worshiped, yet why are you working out with the mosshead and yelling as loud as Franky?

He still treats you kindly, of course, but there is a bit of a gap between what he’s known all his life and what’s being taught to him.

It changed one day though, you two were running from marines and he tripped.

Embarrassment had flooded through him at tripping in front of a lady(?), but when you had picked him up and kept running his heart started racing.

Here he was, the gentleman, being carried like a princess by a woman.

He couldn’t even protest, it wasn’t long after that that he caught feelings and you two started dating.

Now he worships you in other ways. Always calling you strong and beautiful.

Sometimes he’s still embarrassed, but lord knows he's in way too deep now.

Please be understanding if he pretends that something is too hot for him to touch or if he acts like a damsel.

Getting taken care of by a strong girlfriend just feels way better for him than he could’ve ever imagined.

Zoro

He dislikes you at first, not because you’re a woman that’s masculine, but because he sees you like a challenger.

You drink like him, work out with him, even sleep in random places sometimes. He’s supposed to do that!

You even took the spot he likes to nap in!

Not to mention he can’t even pick a fight with you without the cook immediately butting in because you’re a “lady”.

Lady his ass! You’re hardly a woman!

This sort of thing stopped one day when you two were bickering a bit, and once again Sanji stepped in.

Usually the argument switches over to him and Sanji but this time you weren’t having it and grabbed Sanji by the leg, flinging him away like a ball before looking back at Zoro.

He couldn’t help it, seeing the curly brow about to defend you like a knight only to be flung away was too funny and he ended up cracking a smile.

Like that, he stopped seeing you less as competition and more as someone to do things with.

One day Nami made a joke while dragging you two back to the ship “Ugh you two are always together, are you dating or something?”

That seemed to open something up.

Zoro didn’t really think of you as a woman, not that that was much different than other women, but if he were ever to have a lover in his life he would like someone to do the things he loves with.

He asked you out and you said yes, then you two started dating.

Seems loveless at first, but he ends up using the time to get to know you, and really appreciates you.

He treats you like a person, not like some unruly woman (even if he says that sometimes to mess with you).

You’re the type of couple where people can’t tell if you’re dating or not, but behind closed doors he’ll rest his head on your lap and let you play with his hair.

You’re the only one he’ll tolerate making any sort of grass jokes about his hair, girlfriend privilege.

[peanutbubba]

Zoro shanks ace and law (seperate) x male reader fluff please i dont care if u add or remove anything dowhatever u wnat

OP Men x Strong Reader

Male reader, fluff, Ace and reader aren’t in a relationship, Reader is insecure of his strength in Law’s, not beta read, drabbles, Pre-timeskip Zoro (600+ words), Shanks (600 words), Law (800+ words), Ace (800 words)

Red Hair Shanks

Shanks was never the type of man to be tied down, as a pirate he could never really afford too, he had a dream and desire to be on the sea, it was as plain as that.

But when you came and joined his crew you took all that and threw it on its head, now there was hardly a moment where Shanks wasn’t thinking about you, or outright flirting shamelessly with you.

All of this started just because you were considerate to him, always keeping a keen eye on your captain.

Days where he was struggling with only having one arm, phantom pains, cramps in his arm, whatever it may be on that day you were sure to help him with no questions. You took on the weight of his burden without him even needing to ask, and that’s what made him fall for you so easily.

And on top of that you’re extremely hot, while you were super strong at the same time, what’s there not to like about you?

“Shanks, you’re staring off again,” You sigh, a small frown on your face, “Are you sure you’re not tired? I can take the night shift.”

Immediately Shanks shakes his head, red hair messily going back and forth with the motion, “No, it’s fine.”

You simply roll your eyes at your stubborn Captain, instead deciding to change the topic to something else, “What were you thinking about?”

“You,” he answers quickly, his voice genuine as he cockily smiles at you.

“Oh? So you'd rather fantasize over me rather than actually talk to me?” You tilt your head, smirk on your face as you tease Shanks.

“What?! That’s not what I meant,” he hurriedly says, his cocky attitude dropping nervously for a second.

You simply laugh, finding Shanks’ behavior funny, how a many could go from confident to worried in a second just pure funny. “Yeah, I know.”

Shanks deadpans, sticking his tongue out at you and blowing raspberries like a kid would, “You’re terrible.”

“Aww, but you still love me,” you point out, not at all deterred by Shanks’ comment, bumping his arm with your shoulder.

“Do I?” He replies back sarcastically, turning his head in faux pondering.

Punching his arm playfully you grumble, “No more kisses for you.”

“What?! Come on, anything but that baby,” Shanks pouts, taking the hit on his arm before leaning down and wrapping it around your waist.

Leaning towards you he tries to steal a kiss from your lips but you turn your head, a small whine of displeasure coming from shanks at the action.

Burying his face in your neck he mumbles another plea, his beard scratching you, red hair also tickling your face as it’s blown by the night breeze, “Please, I’m sorry.”

You sigh, your arms wrapping around Shanks as he perks up slightly, leaning in to get a kiss again. This time you allow him, your lips melting nicely against his in a sweet smooch, pulling away to be met with his goofy smile once again.

He tries leaning in for another one but is stopped by you, grabbing the man and hoisting him over your shoulder, his hand grabbing his coat as it falls from his shoulders.

He blushes at how easily you pick him up, hitting his hand against your back gently, “What are you-“

“Beckman’s here, let’s go to bed.” You quickly answer, beginning to move to your shared quarters.

Looking up Shanks sees the gray haired man waving goodbye at them, a knowing smirk on his face as Shanks goes tense. “Goodnight, Captain, Y/N.”

Trafalgar D. Water Law

A lot of the time Shachi would play pranks, usually harmless and all in good fun, until it suddenly goes wrong and they’re stuck with more chores than usual after Law catches them… However, it never deterred him, surprisingly.

You had been peacefully checking the Polar Tang’s pipes, making sure there were no punctures or complications. A careful hand on the delicate piping, when Shachi comes over with one of the most disgusting looking bugs you’ve seen in your life, throwing it on you.

The yell you let out when you felt it crawling on you, it was like you were being murdered, hand tightening around the pipe and accidentally crushing and ripping it in half.

Your hand immediately letting go of the pipe and swatting the bug off of your body, disgusted yelps leaving you until it finally falls off of you.

Looking up you see how Shachi stares at the wall in horror, you already know what he was looking at, however still turning around your face goes to horror when you realize how there is no longer a major chunk of the pipe.

Slowly turning to each other the both of you staring with terrified expressions, fast footsteps making you both panic and whisper yelling at each other. “What the fuck, Shachi!”

“Dude, how was I supposed to know you were gonna react like that?!” He hisses back.

Grabbing the broken pipe you quickly hide it behind your back, scooching back so the broken pipe lining the way was also hidden, Shachi also standing next to you to hide it.

Finally you see Law appear from the corner, a concerned look on his face. “Are you okay? I heard screaming.” He directs at both of you, worry in his tired eyes.

“Nope. We’re alright here, captain!” You respond quickly, your best poker face on.

And you watch nervously at how Law’s eyes narrow at you, then Shachi, but he seems to relax and accept the answer, nodding before turning around and leaving.

When he’s away from sight both you and Shachi begin to panic harder, beginning to push Shachi down a hallway. “Go find that bug before it finds him!”

Nodding he quickly runs off down the hallway the bug scittered off across, you going in the opposite direction to the room that houses extra pipes.

Quickly you place the broken pipe down in its section before fetching a new one, rushing back out the room and back down the hallway that had the broken pipe.

Out of breath you try to get air in your lungs harshly, getting to work once your lungs didn’t feel like they were on fire. Detaching the other broken pieces, replacing it with the new pipe, finally calming down when it was fixed.

It doesn’t last long though, Shachi coming back down the hallway to you also out of breath. “Help me… find a box.” He says through gasps, his hands clasped in front of him.

Getting up, you collect your tool box and go with Shachi, scouring the supply closets for an empty cardboard box, eventually finding one and stuffing the bug in there, sealing the box shut with tape.

Both of you leave the room silently going your separate ways. You were sure this would be funny when it's brought up again another day, for now however, you’re just glad you were quick enough to escape Law’s punishments.

All you had to do now was report back to him and this nightmare would be done.

Treading down the hallway you make your way to the captain’s quarters, knuckles rasping against the metal as you knock, entering a second later.

Before you could even open your mouth to speak, Law was quicker, immediately questioning you with dreaded words. “Did you fix the pipe?”

Your jaw drops, a worried look coming on your face as you realize that Law knew the whole time. “You knew?!”

“It wasn’t hard to figure out,” he smirks, placing the papers that he was skimming over down to look at you in turn.

“How did you-”

“I saw Shachi-ya chasing a bug down the hallway, and I heard the pipe hissing.” He quickly responds, cutting off your question.

He watches how your lips tighten downturning in a frown, sighing his own expression matches your, standing up from his chair and walking over to you. “Y/N-ya, it wasn’t your fault.”

“But-“

Once more he cuts you off, his words soft towards you even if his facial expression didn’t change much from his usual stoic one, “It’s alright. It was a mistake and you already fixed it, that’s all that matters.”

You open your mouth again to argue about it but Law’s quicker, inked hands wrapping around you and your head and shoving you in a hug, forcing you to shut up.

Relaxing in his affection, the scent of him calming you down from your mistake, just taking it that he wouldn’t let you win this argument.

“Want to help me come up with a punishment for Shachi?”

Roronoa Zoro

You didn’t train much, if at all, mostly it was because you couldn’t, there wasn’t any training equipment that could sustain being under your pressure.

But you did like to watch Zoro workout, in a way living vicariously through him. Sometimes he’d even ask you to help him, which you always enjoy.

Sometimes you were his spotter, sometimes you’d both have a friendly clash, and other times he’d use you like an extra weight.

“Push harder,” he ordered, glaring down at the wooden floors of the Merry.

With an amused sigh you apply a little more pressure to his back, hands pushing his sweaty back down, “Is this good?”

Fixing his posture Zoro allows his body to go down, then with a slight strain he pushes back up with a grunt. “Perfect.” He replies curtly.

So that’s how you stay, using some of your strength to push him down while he does push ups, both of you using your strength to fight against each other.

You enjoyed helping Zoro so much because this was usually as soft as the two of you got with each other, in a way this was how Zoro showed his affection to you.

Even if he didn’t admit it himself you understood that he enjoyed having you around, watching him, training with him. You can see it in the way his brown eyes soften when he sees you climb to the upper deck, stretching the sleep off of your limbs from a midday nap, or even in the way his eyes flicker to you every so often to make sure you’re still watching.

It never disappoints how the tips of his ears dust red when you compliment him from behind, of how he tenses when you whistle at his physique.

Going down again you watch how Zoro’s arms flex, a smile growing on your face as you admire his muscles, a clear sign of the dedication that Zoro put into trying to gain the title of The Strongest Swordsman.

It was days like this that you felt truly relaxed, a sense of ease settling so comfortably in your bones in a way that could never otherwise be accomplished.

You would never trade these days for the world, because this was it, it was your heaven and your earth, the only things truly keeping you tethered down.

And you sure it was the same for Zoro, you were sure that he as well would never give such tranquility up.

“You’re staring.” Zoro points out factually, a slight curiosity to his voice.

You let out a nervous chuckle, cheeks slightly tinting pink at how he caught you so easily without even having to look at you.

“It’s hard not too, you look good training.” Zoro’s body goes rigid at your comment, ears blowing up in a crimson as he simply huffs.

Again he goes down and this time you’re much more aware of everything happening, the soft clinking of his earrings as they glitter under the sun.

The waves rocking the Merry gently as if trying to put it to sleep, huffs escaping as Zoro strains to push back up, the distant chatter of the other crew members on the deck.

You adored this ship, this crew, and especially Zoro. They gave you a place when you had none, he rooted for you when no one else would. They were the family you got, even if you didn’t feel like you deserved it.

So long as you could help it you would make sure that days would stay like this, sunny and bright with a good future ahead.

You would see this crew reach its goals, you promised that, you would reach your own goal. More importantly you’d be beside Zoro’s side when he finally got crowned with the title he yearns for, you’ll be there cheering him on.

That, you’ll make sure of.

Portgas D. Ace

When Ace first saw you he swore up and down that you were the most beautiful man he had met, and when he saw your strength first hand he immediately fell in love he was sure.

That’s why he couldn’t help himself, gushing about you to Marco, or admiring you when you were fighting.

There was something about you that just drew him in like a moth to a flame, but god was he not mad, he would keep this going on forever if he could.

It’s why even now when you were having a friendly brawl with Vista, he was practically jittering with excitement, desperate to see you and your amazing strength again.

Rolling back and forth between the ball and heel on his feet, black eyes glittering like a child’s.

He watches as you fight against Vista, catching the sides of his blades in your hands, or concentrating so hard to try and not hurt Vista too much when you land a punch on him.

Ace practically sighs as if he was watching a dream, all because you were so cool, even with such things as Haki you were incredibly strong.

“You know you should tell him, right?” Marco asks, also watching beside Ace as the fight goes down.

Jolting in shock Ace looked beside him, he wasn’t expecting the man to watch so he was scared by his sudden presence beside him, an unamused look on his face because of it.

“But what if he doesn’t say yes?” He pouts, looking back at you, his cheeks flushing red at the thought of him confessing to you.

Marco shrugs his shoulders, a calm look still about him as his attention is captivated by Vista and you, “Won’t know until you try.”

Ace pouts, trying to think of the different ways he could, maybe he could try impressing you enough to-

“Please do not try any of that impressing him stuff,” Marco says with a sigh, practically reading Ace’s mind.

Snapping his head towards Marco he huffs, an annoyed tone to his voice as he bickers, “What’s wrong with that?”

“It literally never works,” the first division commander responds back, “Just ask him out on a date, normally.”

Ace groans but nods his head, looking back at the fight only to realize it finished, both Vista and you laughing together.

Alright… okay, all he had to do was ask you on a date, easy! Except it’s not, at all, because you make Ace so nervous that half the time he just wants to die of embarrassment.

When you began to walk off to the showers Ace stopped you, a nervous smile on his face and he completely forgot what he was supposed to be saying. It felt like his heart was in his throat, ready to burst out at any moment now that he was so close to you, and all he could manage to sputter out was, “You’re so cool,” before promptly running away.

Bumping into Izou who just laughs at him lightheartedly, “That was so pathetic.”

“I know! Don’t remind me,” he grumbles out, rubbing at his burning face with his hands, squatting down to sit on his haunches.

“You have to calm down when talking to him, you’re freaking out too much,” Izou points out, trying to at least help Ace a little.

Ace sighs, opening his fingers enough so he could look through them, “Yeah, but it’s hard when they’re so… them!”

Izou begins to laugh again, stifling out a, “You’re hopeless,” before shaking his head.

“Well you better ask him soon before someone else does,” he says, pointing at some of the other people on the Moby Dick also admiring you to Ace.

Ace stands up quickly at the mention of the other competition, suddenly a serious look about him, there was no way he was letting someone else get to you first!

Rushing back over to where he left you he relaxes in relief that you’re still there, a confused look on your face as you watch Ace come back to you after running away two minutes ago.

“Go on a date with me?” He immediately blurts when he’s in front of you, his face such a deep shade of red it rivals the red beads he wears around his neck.

Laughing your face changes from one of puzzlement to amusement, your cheeks dusting a light pink, “Sure, commander.”

Ace feels how his heart burst up in flames and honestly he wouldn’t have been surprised if he was on fire too, but it didn’t really matter to him, not when the most loveliest person he’s ever seen in his life just accepted going on a date.

“Awesome,” he breathlessly whispers, a goofy smile on his face.

—

This reminded me that I always forget how to spell Zoro’s last name.

Hope you enjoyed, Pea’s out!

[theanimeoftheblackbunnymask]

Shanks with a Female Marine S/O (Imagine)

Author's Note: I made a post mentioning this idea and it got a lot of attention. Hopefully it'll be talked about more down the road.

Links: {Masterlist}

When it comes to a marine reader, I can't picture them as this shy, weak little thing. I like to imagine reader as a well respected vice admiral, known for their heroism and determination.

I can see you meeting Shanks when he was a rookie. Just entered the grand line and is starting to get attention, but he isn't quite as big as he is now. You weren't new to the marines by the time you met Shanks, probably a captain, and it actually took a little bit for Shanks to truly see your potential.

You met him in some random bar him and his crew were drinking at. You were given orders to keep an eye on him, since the marines wanted to know just how much of a threat he was at the time. You decided fo go undercover while keeping a few lower ranked marines you were in charge of outside to keep post.

Shanks, being the flirt and charmer he is, immediately started conversation with you the moment you sat down next to him. You couldn't deny the fact he was friendly, offering to pay for your drink and even making you laugh a couple times, but you never once allowed yourself to be blinded by his antics. He was a pirate, and a possibility dangerous at best, you couldn't let yourself be blinded by his good looks and charm.

Despite Shanks being drunk when he first met you, he could see right through your duguise. The look in your eyes told him everything he need to know. However, he continued to act as if he was oblivious to that fact.

However, despite your better judgement, you ended up falling for his charm. The two of you ended up sleeping together in one of the island's many inns. You can't deny that he was probably the best fuck you've ever had, but the moral turmoil he threw in did not make it worth it.

You knew he was going to be trouble later down the road, and in all honesty, you wanted to see just how far he'd go, especially since the two of you were so close in age.

Not only did he leave an impression on you, but you left an impression on him. After meeting you, he was talking about you to Beckman.

"A beauty that woman was, Benn. A real beauty, a fierce one too," Shanks said as he poured him and Beckman a glass of whatever alcohol they stole from the island.

"You say that about every woman you've been with," Beckman said as he picked up the glass, blowing out a puff of smoke as he looked out into the ocean. "But you think she'd different, don't you?"

"She’s gonna be a fun one, Benn."

"What makes you so sure?"

"She’s a marine! A captain no less."

Beckman sent Shanks a glare as he drank his glass. "And you still slept with her? Captain, we're still rookies, I wouldn't be taking a thing like this as a game."

"She ain't going to do anything yet."

"...How'd you even know she was a marine?"

"The look in her eyes, and the fact that marines were scattered all over the island," Shanks replied confidently before chugging down the bottle. "I want to see where she ends up."

The two of you wouldn't interact again until a few years later. You've risen in ranks and have now became a Vice Admiral, and Shanks is now considered a major threat to the government.

Both of ships had crossed paths while at sea, and you decided to see if you stood a chance. You didn't have a devil fruit, but you were starting to master haki during this point in time.

"Long time no see, Shanks," You said as the two of you stood in front of each other. "I see you've made it big."

"I can say the same to you," Shanks responded, a smirk on his face as he checked you out. "Damn, still as beautiful as the day I met you."

"And you're charming as ever. Let's see what you got, don't go easy on me."

"Oh don't worry baby," Shanks reassured as he pulled out his sword, "I won't. "

Its safe to say that Shanks won that fight, but that wasn't the last time you guys would meet.

After that the two of you would constantly cross paths, and Shanks would never fail to make you blush. Constantly throwing flirtations your way as the two of you fought.

"You sure you don't want to join me?" Shanks asked, dodging your punch.

"Yes I'm sure, I don't think I wanna be couped up with smelling pirated all day, especially you."

"Well, this smelly pirate was the best dick you've ever had," Shanks teased, laughing as your face became one of embarrement.

The tension between you two was thick. And you wanted to beat him more than anyone. You wanted to wipe that smug look off his face, but anytime you'd get close, he'd knock you down faster than you could blink.

"What is this, 51-0?" Shanks asked as he pinned you down on the floor, the tip of his sword grazing your neck as he looked down at you.

"Shut up."

"Come on Baby, you're better than that."

The way Shanks asked you out was oddly romantic for a playboy like him. He has caught you while your ship was stationed at one of the islands in the Grand Line. You were in the woods, admiring the night sky as you came up with possible ways for your crew to get stronger. While you were thinking, you heard footsteps approaching.

When you turned around your gun was already out, and standing in front of you was Shanks, holding a bouquet of you favorite flowers. You were immediately caught off guard, just what the hell was going on.

"Shanks? What are you doing here?" You asked, lowering your gun slowly but still keeping your guard up.

"Hey, I'm not here to fight," Shanks declared. "Y/N, we've known each other for years, and the longer I've known you the more you've won over my heart. Everytime we part I keep finding myself longing for your return, waiting for our paths to cross again, even if it's for a fight I'll know I'll win."

The last sentence was a purpose jab at you, which helped in lifting up both his and your nervousness.

"I realize now that you're what I want," Shanks said as he handed you the bouquet of flowers.

"Shanks," You whispered, taking the bouquet as you tried to concele your excitement.

"Will you be my girlfriend/boyfriend?"

For the first time, Shanks saw you break your strong, cold marine persona. Before he could react you were hugging him, kissing his face more times than he can count.

"YES YES YES! FINALLY, I'VE BEEN WAITING YEARS FOR THIS!"

The two of your guys relationship is kept secret from the government, nobody outside of Shanks' crew knows about your little relationship.

Whenever you're on the battle field the two of you act far more cold towards each other than before, just to keep appearances. But, after the fights, the two of you are cutest couple to the point it's sickening, and everytime the two of you guys meet, you always end up in Shanks' Cabin.

I'd say Shanks with a Marine/Vice Admiral S/O is by far the cutest thing ever. Two strong people who constantly fight each other secretly dating, how scandalous.

Oh, and don't get me started on what your marriage would be like. That's when word gets out.

[planchettewrites]

"Red Hair" Shanks (One Piece)/AFAB!Reader

DESCRIPTION: Imagine being "Red Hair" Shanks' wife.

CONTENT: Angst (Shanks losing his arm, talk of infidelity), Fluff (Weddings, Falling in Love)

A/N: Shanks my beloved. While I work on an ideally long Sanji fic, I needed something to post. Hence, this Shanks imagine. This can be read as OPLA!Shanks or Anime/Manga!Shanks. My friend Claudia always tells me being Shanks' wife would be a rather depressing endeavor, but to that I say, bring it. Enjoy bbys!

653 words | Safe!

Imagine being Shanks’ wife.

You’re not a pirate; you’re far from it. You worked at Party’s as a barmaid; you just happened to be the lucky lady to catch Shanks’ eye. Red Haired Shanks, a feared pirate, was nothing but a man with his hat in his hand asking to marry you. You had feelings for the pirate for a while, so of course, you accepted his proposal. You still remembered his words: “Would you marry me, darlin’? Make me the happiest man alive?” His words made you melt. Everything about him made you melt.

The wedding was nothing special in the grand scheme of things; it was what would be considered a “courthouse” wedding. It was held at the very bar you met, and you dolled yourself up nice: your nicest dress, your best available makeup, and you did your hair the way you like it. Shanks wore his Sunday best—which frankly wasn’t much, but you were always a sucker for the rugged look. The rest of the Shanks’ crew and all your friends were there too. Your officiant was the town elder, who looked at you and Shanks with a smile. He grabbed your hands, wished you eternal happiness, and told the pirate that he better not let a single tear slip down your cheek. Shanks promised. 

There were two days he couldn’t keep that promise, the first being the day he lost his arm. As he and Luffy came to shore, you noticed the blood draining from the lost limb and screamed. You screamed so loud you were sure they could hear you around the East Blue. As Makino ushered Luffy away, you practically threw yourself at your husband. You were sobbing, grabbing at his shirt, asking what the hell had happened. He shushed and cooed you quietly, telling you what happened. You wanted to punch him, scream at him for his recklessness, but he was protecting a child that he cared for, and you couldn’t fault him for that. As you ushered him to the medic, you continued to cry. You loved your husband more than anything, and nothing would ever change that.

The second time he made you cry was when he left for the Grand Line, telling you that you couldn't come with him. You were enraged, and you showed it with tears. Thoughts raced of him with a hoard of different women, him getting hurt, or getting betrayed, or worse, his death. You couldn't stand any of those things; you needed to be there with him. You rarely got angry at your husband, but today was the day you became livid at him. Instead of screaming out of sheer horror, you screamed in sheer anger. How dare he? How dare he find it acceptable to leave you here forever? Alone. Alone, without the man you promised to spend the rest of your life with. Beck Beckman and the rest of the crew watched this unfold; you were not one to make a scene, but you weren’t going down without a fight. Beckman had approached Shanks, saying he was more than welcome to bring you. 

Shanks shook his head and said: “I couldn’t live with myself if she got hurt.” 

You fell to your knees. You weren’t going to beg. You had to accept this fate, the fate of a wife with a husband out at sea. Until you feel Shanks lift your chin and help you return to your feet. He kissed you with passion and pulled you into the tightest hug he could: “Where would I be without my wife by my side? You can come along, darlin’.”

From that day forward, you were on the sea with the Red Hair Pirates. More importantly, you were on the sea with your husband, the feared pirate Red Haired Shanks. Your souls in the ocean together would be, and that’s all you needed to be happy. 

Please like, reblog, and comment! I love to hear from readers!

[pandora-writes-one-piece]

I think this is where we ask for requests? but if it is shanks x reader fanfic ( fluffy pls! and SFW! ) if ur not uncomfortable with it!🤍

Hiii @iloveyoushanks Thank you so much for your ask (and for all your support on my stories! ❤️ I appreciate it very much!)

This was my first time writting for Shanks (excluding his appearance in the meet-cute series, but he's just a dad there, not a daddy 😏) so I hopeeeeee you like this! Totally SFW! Also, you didn't specify gender, so I kept it gender neutral, hope it's okay! Let me know if you liked it! 🙏 Thank you!

Source for pic

Chasing Constellations

Word Count: 2490

Tags: SFW; gn! x Shanks; Fluff; Comfort; Camaraderie; Acting on crushes;

Special Warning: English is not my first language, I apologise for any possible spelling or grammar mistakes.

Summary: You are done dating boys, you want men. Your Captain claims to be man enough for you. But is he? And are you about to find out?

Notes: Be sure to check out my 100 followers event, as I will close requests on Sunday! Full disclosure, answers to requests may take a while! Thank you for reading this! I do hope you enjoyed it!❤️

Tag List: @rosidaze @beachaddict48 @armiliadawn

Masterlist

“Want to come home with me?”

“Sorry, not today.” You answered with a warm, apologetic smile. 

The man who had been leaning at the counter next to you, all smiles and smooth words, cursed loudly as he turned away, slamming his glass on the wooden counter along with a few coins.

The barmaid sighed as she collected them. “Shame, he was sweet and easy on the eyes. Why didn’t you say yes?”

“I don’t know why, really. I guess I am done with boys. They don’t have the emotional maturity of a man.” You said with a scoff.

“Honey, when you’re dating pirates you can’t help but deal with boys. The only maturity they achieve is in size, not in behaviour.” The barmaid let out a hearty laugh while she poured another drink into your empty glass. “If you ask me, you’re much better off just hooking up randomly. Take ‘em, leave ‘em and be done with it!”

You laughed alongside her, her contagious laugh infecting you and your tipsy state allowing you to behave more freely than you normally would.

“That’s some sound advice there.” Shanks, your captain, clinked his glass with yours before downing it in one gulp. “Or just follow mine: date a real man!” He grinned, his smile creasing the corners of his eyes and forming a charming dimple on the right side of his cheek. 

The barmaid left you two alone as she tended to other patrons and you eyed your captain from top to bottom, humming in what seemed like an appreciative manner, leaving him to puff his chest at you like a bird attempting to mate. “A real man, you say?” He nodded and winked. “Well, when you find one, send him my way, please.”

Beckman, who was next to Shanks, snorted his drink through his nose as he banged his fists against the wooden counter in pure mirth. Shanks’s grin turned into a pout, his hand against his chest in mock hurt. “Ouch.”

“Yeah, you’ll get over it, aren’t you a real man?” And with that, you let a few coins drop onto the counter and turned to return to the ship. Your captain was funny, handsome, strong, intimidating and he could be very protective of you, even if you rarely needed him to help you. You got along great and had both been spending more and more time together, lately, but, even if you harboured the hardest of crushes on him, you would never consider dating him.

He was too much of a flirt, too much of a manwhore, too much of a player…

He was too much. 

Period.

Besides, he would never really be interested in you, right? 

-*-

Tossing and turning in bed, sleep kept eluding you. The cabin was too damn stuffy and your crewmates’ snoring - though normally nothing that bothered you - were driving you insane. If only they could all snore at the same rhythm instead of this dissonant cacophony! 

Huffing, you threw the sheets back and slid on some slippers on your bare feet, grabbing a light blanket to drape over your shoulders because the night and the sea breeze could be unforgiving. 

You found a cosy - secluded - spot by the deck, and sat down, leaning against the balustrade to gaze at the stars. They looked especially bright tonight and the sky was clear of clouds, leaving you with a beautiful painting-like picture to admire. 

Just as you were starting to relax, a deep sigh escaping your lips, you heard a roguish voice near you. “Couldn’t sleep? Or are you searching for your perfect man among the stars?”

You immediately smiled at his words as your eyes met his. A mischievous smirk painted his lips as he pointed up. “How about Orion? A legendary hunter, strong, skilled, muscular?”

You scoffed, your fingers entwining as you hugged your knees and Shanks sat beside you, still looking up. “Orion? The stalker?”

Shanks chuckled, making himself comfortable near you and you didn’t miss the way his leg brushed against yours. “You know your myths?”

“Please! I know myths and constellations! Orion pursued the Pleiades sisters who, in exasperation and desire to escape his endless pursuit, sought the help of Zeus, who placed them in the sky as stars so they could be free.” Shaking your head, you huffed in annoyance. “I don’t know what’s worse, running from someone who can’t take ‘no’ for an answer, or having it be written into a love story by someone who clearly doesn’t understand the concept of boundaries and personal space.”

“Message received!” Shanks chuckled as he scooted his leg away from you and you bit your lip. That’s not what you meant, his touch was quite welcome. If you ignored the fact that this was how he flirted with everyone!

Sensing the slight change in atmosphere, you decided to lighten the mood. 

“Besides, Orion is clearly fictional. If I'm trying to find a man, I need him to be real. Let's see, he was a giant, handsome, with great strength and hunting skills.” You cheekily stared at Shanks, your legs falling to the side in an effort to close the distance he had created when you spoke about personal space. 

Visibly relaxing with the return of your touch, Shanks winked, raising his hand and counting on his fingers. “Giant?” His laugh was cocky and filled with innuendo. “Check! Handsome and strong? Check and check again! Hunting skills? Baby, I'll hunt you down blindfolded in a forest. Try me.”

The huskiness of his voice caught you by surprise, holding your breath prisoner in your throat for a split-second before you both burst into laughter. 

“Well, he was also arrogant, boastful and prideful so that's another three checks for you, Captain.” You nudged him playfully with your leg and he laughed, holding his hand in the air. 

“Aye, aye, guilty as charged.” A moment passed as he scratched his chin, eyes fixed on the sky. “How about that one?” He pointed at another constellation, clearly challenging your previous claim of knowing your way around the stars. 

“Hercules?” He nodded. “Another strong handsome man?”

“I think you might have a type.” He laughed, letting his arm fall on the balustrade behind your head. The heat from his body made you aware of his proximity. “He was brave-...”

“Reckless!”

“He held a strong sense of justice and duty.” 

“Impulsive, short-tempered with anger issues…”

“A hero!” He finished proudly. 

“An idiot.” You replied with a smirk. “They might have been branded as heroes, but they were still boys, flawed, full of themselves, with almost no regard for others, let alone for a loved one.” Sighing you fixed your eyes back on the sky. “Not even heroes and myths are perfect men, Captain. This is an impossible task.”

This all started out as a joke. A simple answer to a question a barmaid - you'd most likely never see again - asked you. And now it has turned into a real dilemma. You were sick and tired of being toyed with. You did want a real relationship, but none of the men - boys! - you'd dated had been ready to commit. 

Shanks was older than you, supposedly wiser and more mature. But he was not boyfriend material, even if he was the perfect man. So he needed to stop this useless flirting if he wasn't going to follow through because your heart wouldn't take it. 

“Well, you've left out a perfect specimen.” He pointed up and you followed, a frown on your features, already regretting having indulged your captain in this banter. 

“Perseus?”

“Yes.” He answered, pride evident in his features for your correct answer. At least you managed to impress him with your knowledge of the stars. “He had no faults. Come on, I dare you to say something bad about him.”

You pondered, your chest rising and falling with a deep inhale, but Shanks didn’t let you speak. 

“He was brave, loyal, honourable, ingenious and resourceful! Plus, he saved his beloved from being eaten alive by a sea beast!” Shanks looked you straight in the eyes and moved his stump, trying to make you laugh again. “Luffy was not my beloved in that sense, but he was still a loved one. I'd say I check all the boxes!”

That did make you laugh, and the two of you shared a fit of giggles, lightening the mood. You could always count on your captain to make you laugh. As you both regained your composure, Shanks let the arm that was on the balustrade fall and land onto your shoulders, pulling you closer to his body, muttering that the night was quite cold and he didn’t want you to catch a chill.  

You didn't object, your head fell against his chest as you tried to blame the unexpected gesture on your slight tipsiness - though by now you were more than sober. 

“There's one fault I can think of about Perseus.” You whispered as a sigh escaped your lips when you realised how well your head fit against him. 

“Really?” Shanks sounded doubtful. His fingers dug into your arm, pulling you even closer, as if there couldn't be any gap between your bodies. 

“Perseus was described as youthful. Some legends say he was around fifteen when he slew Medusa. Others say that he was in his early twenties. A boy. Not a man.” Lifting your face slightly, you let your eyes meet his, a slight sadness pressed into them. “Forget it, Cap. I’m fine on my own. Even if they were perfect,” you pointed your finger at the sky, “they would still be out of reach.”

Shanks’ goofy grin, one he had been sporting since he began speaking to you, fell off his lips as his gaze locked onto yours, his pupils darkening and something else hidden, glimmering and pulling you in like a magnet. 

“Well, it’s a good thing I’m right here, then.” The hand on your shoulders travelled to your nape, fingers slipping under your hair, heat permeating your entire being. “And an even better one, I’m definitely not a boy.”

His eyes never left yours as he slowly leaned down. Your heart pounded incessantly against your chest and every fibre of your being told you to pull away, to flee, to run. This was Shanks! Your Captain! The eternal flirt!

“You’re not a boy, you’re right here… but you’re also a manwhore, Captain.” The soft chuckle that left his lips ghosted over yours, leaving a promise of what could be, if only you let it happen. 

“You know, some things are just myths… I bet Orion wasn't even a giant at all! Perseus courageously defeating a sea beast? I guarantee he was scared shitless! Me being a manwhore - as you so eloquently put it.” His lips brushed yours ever so slightly, an invitation, the opening of a door, leaving you to decide if you wanted to enter or not. “Most definitely a myth.”

“But you are as unattainable as one.” All you had to do was lean in. Just a little adjustment of your mouth. He was right there. 

“Not for you.” Somehow, his words rang true. You hadn't seen him bring anyone to his cabin in ages. Granted, he could still be seeing someone outside of the ship and then returning, but if you thought hard enough, he had barely been flirting with anyone. 

Except you. 

Breathing was hard. He was right there. Thinking was harder. His scent was intoxicating. Hearing was impossible. Your heartbeat pounded so loudly that there was nothing else to hear. 

“You’ll just break my heart.” You couldn’t find the strength to pull away, even though your words might say otherwise. 

“Try me.” It almost sounded like a plea, but it couldn’t be, because Captain Shanks didn’t beg. His fingers pressed into your hair, as if grounding himself and staving off the urge to pull you against his lips. “Please.”

Oh… 

Apparently he did beg after all. 

Shoving all doubts, insecurities and fears down to the pit of your stomach, you pressed your lips against his. Just a taste. A small peck. You were going to pull back, you really were, but Shanks’ hand spread across your nape as he pulled you against him with the hunger of a starving man. 

He tasted slightly of sake, the alcohol lingering on his tongue, making it slightly bitter. But mostly… he mostly tasted of excitement and adventure, of a blissful future and sweet moments. 

Suddenly, the stars were no longer in the sky, they were shining within your closed eyelids, supernovas exploding inside your chest, your head swirling at the speed of light. 

It was… 

“Perfect…” You muttered against his lips as he pulled back a little to let you breathe. Your foreheads pressed together, his hand moving to caress and cup your cheek. Why had you doubted this? 

Why had you doubted him? 

“Gods, I've been craving that kiss forever.” There was still hunger in his voice, but something else, something far sweeter. 

“What do you mean?” Your hands reached in as you pressed your fingers tentatively against his chest, pondering whether you should pull him closer, considering the implications of a second kiss. 

“I thought you were the unattainable myth. Not the other way around. You never gave two shits about me.” He made that familiar whine that told you he was playfully hurt. 

Your chuckle caught you by surprise, so much so that you let your head fall forward, nuzzling the crook of his neck and breathing in the tanginess of his skin, sea salt and sweat mingling into a dizzying aroma. 

“Maybe you should've asked sooner.” You spoke into his skin, holding back the urge to press your lips against it and test how soft it was. 

“Asked what?”

“What that guy asked me at the bar.”

“Oh…” You felt as he took a deep inhale against your head, his hand now placing soft circles against your back. “About wanting to come home with me?”

You hum softly. 

“Aye, aye.” He chuckled as his fingers travelled up to your chin to tilt it, allowing him to stare into your eyes. “So, do you?”

You weren’t about to make this easy on him. “Do I what?”

“Want to come home with me?” He kissed you between words, his lips pressing against your flushing cheekbones, then your closed eyelids, and finally your nose. A softness to his touch you didn't know he possessed. 

The warmth filling your cheeks could have answered for you, but you still nodded, arms circling around his neck, pulling him down toward you, lips merely a breath away. 

“Is that a yes?” He didn’t hide the giddiness in his voice, the slight joviality that your wordless agreement brought. The boyish grin on his face. 

And you didn’t reprimand him for that. Because for all the youthful attitudes your captain had, he truly was a real man.

And one you wanted to date.

[count-alucard-tepes]

Headcanons for my One Piece hotties: Drunk texts they send to their S/O

Kizaru✨

Kizaru: baby, when I get home I want kisses and to love with all my very essence! You are the best thing that ever happened to me and the shining light in my life. I don’t know where I’d be with you and I appreciate everything you to do for me!😍😍😍

S/O: are you drunk?

Kizaru: 🤔 how’d you know?

S/O: ⬆️⬆️⬆️

Akainu🌋

Akainu: I’m amgry

S/O: You’re supposed to be having fun with your friends, babe

Akainu: Kizaru is dancing on a pole and Aokiji is throwing money at him. I’m too pure for this.

S/O: babe, take a video! Right now

Akainu: I can’t…I’m laying on the floor and looking at the stars…they remind me of you when you’re all happy and cute

S/O: BABE! VIDEO PLEASE!?

Ryokugyu 🌱

Ryokugyu: if this was my last night alive, I would spend it cuddled up to you and not my plants I promise

S/O: omg, are you drunk!? Where are you?

Ryokugyu: oh man, one thing I was in a pub with the guys…next thing I know is I was sitting on a bridge with a bottle in my hand..and someone’s walking stick…I think I beat someone up or won this walking stick in a drinking game…either way…your man is a winner 🥇

S/O: omg share your fucking location!? I’m calling Kizaru rn!

Sir Crocodile 🐊

Crocodile: grrrr I’m a crocodile, I bite *nom nom*

S/O: …what in the actual hell? Did someone steal this phone? Also he can’t text with one hand so it’s definitely stolen

Crocodile: I’m using the voice to text thingy…if I was a real crocodile would you love me?

S/O: fuck no, that’s weird

Crocodile: What! This is why I’d eat you if I was a real crocodile

S/O: pretty sure you eat me regardless of being a crocodile or not 😏

Crocodile: wait…was that a dirty comeback? Daddy’s coming home

Doflamingo Donquixote 🦩

Doffy: I’ve decided

S/O: on what? And where are you btw?

Doffy: you are the chosen one! And you shall bear my heir!

S/O: deal

Doffy: 😭😭😭 really baby, you’re gonna have my babies?! Omg I’m gonna be a mom

Doffy: I mean a dad

Doffy: I can’t stop crying

Doffy: halp me

Benn Beckman 🔫

Benn: I think my aim is better when I’m drunk, want to see?

S/O: that’s not a good idea, come home rn

Benn: babe, you were right…I accidentally shot Shanks while we were drinking and we have to go to the hospital

Benn: I’m a supportive husband

Benn: I meant first mate! Not husband!

Benn: babe, don’t be mad! I didn’t mean it like that…I panicked and texted…also the cops are here

Benn: bail me out of jail, please

Katakuri Charlotte 🍡

Katakuri: babe, someone put something in my drink…I swear I just had one and now…I’m all shakey and shit

S/O: oh no! Love, just drink some water. I’m on my way

Katakuri: nah, I’m gonna find my brothers and kick their asses first

Katakuri: I found them and threw them into the river nearby lol

Katakuri: ah shit, I forgot they can’t swim…I have to go save them brb

Katakuri: omg, Y/N, it’s Smoothie, we had to fish big bro out of the water…come to the hospital asap

Killer🔪

Killer: I think I’m gonna stop wearing my mask and just embrace myself

S/O: baby, did you have too much liquid courage?

Killer: babe, someone said I looked like a Barbie so I beat him up

Killer: so apparently there’s a guy Barbie called Ken and he thought I looked like that…I thought he said I looked like a girl

Killer: okay I felt bad so I sang I’m a Barbie girl for karaoke for him…he’s a fan I guess..also I don’t want him to have me arrested

Killer: omg babe he’s a marine, I’m fucked …call Kidd…I need help

Kaido🐉

Kaido: 👁️ ❤️🫵

S/O: you discovered emojis, love?

Kaido: 🙈

S/O: everything alright?

Kaido: need booze…send help

King👑

King: would you love me if I was a worm?

S/O: omg what is this shit?

King: answer the question, Y/N

S/O: yes, I would

King: I had a bet with Queen that you would said no…I have to drink 5 bottles of tequila.

S/O: oh no…are you okay?

King: babe, I started breathing fire?! Did you know I could do that! I also fell over and can’t get up…everyone else is on the floor too…I feel so old rn

King: well at least I know you’d love me as a worm

King: also I lost my mask so I’m the one of the floor with the bag on my head

King: Queen drew a grumpy face on it so you know it’s me…it has a crown too

Queen👑

Queen: zoom zoom zoom zoom

S/O: getting lit, baby?

Queen: you know it, I think I can stage dive this time

S/O: omg no babe! That’s not a good idea!

Queen: babe, I did it…and I’m in the hospital now… hurt my back…but I saved my beer babe! I’m awesome!

[lost-my-sanity]

Like fish in a barrel

“Talking about love with yassop is like shooting fish in a barrel” Shanks once said “sure you hit the fish, but you end up with holes in the barrel and water everywhere, it’s messy and no one wins in the end” he explained.

I guess he was right after all. Things had definitely been messy since I joined the red haired pirates crew. I got along incredibly well with the crew, mostly I hung out with Benn Beckman and the sharpshooter Yassop. If I wasn’t with one you could easily find me by searching for the other.

Benn and I had a sibling-like bond, which could not be said for the one shared with Yassop. He was very blatant about his flirting with me, often draping an arm over my shoulders or pulling me in closely, greeting me with kisses to my cheeks which always made my face flush redder than the captain’s famous hair.

I never pushed things with Yassop, knowing that he had a wife and son. It had been many years since he saw either of them. He didn’t even write letters to them which worried me a bit if I was being honest. Wouldn’t he want to check in on them and make sure they were doing fine? To see that his son was growing up nicely even though he left them to keep pursuing his dream of being a pirate?

I know Yassop likes children, he’s always been so good whenever we visit Luffy, and he’s never taken a woman back to the ship or any place, in fact the only other woman he’s ever really paid attention to was myself.

I really didn’t understand what was going on with him. He was a great friend, and an even better sharpshooter. He was handsome, well liked and a fun guy to be around. The signals he kept giving me were making me torn. I’ve talked to Benn about it before and he would just shake his head while taking a long drag from his cigarette. “Do yourself a favor and find someone else to worry about” he would say, placing a large hand on my shoulder in reassurance.

Shanks was no better, he often made remarks that didn’t help me figure out what to do either, using analogies that made my head spin trying to understand them.

One day, years down the road we got word that Luffy had finally set off to live out his dream of being a pirate, he even set himself up with a decent first bounty. We threw a feast in his honor, proud of our surrogate son/friend.

What surprised all of us most about the situation is when we heard that Yassop’s son, Ussop had joined him as well. But that isn’t where the surprises ended, we also found out that Ussop’s mother, Yassop’s estranged wife, had passed away many years ago.

Yassop took it pretty hard, not knowing that his son was essentially left to raise himself in his absence and that the woman he had once loved enough to marry was now dead.

I didn’t know what to do about this situation. I was mad that he had lost so much time with his family over his selfishness, but a part of me was glad that I finally knew what was going on with them. I was proud of Ussop for being so brave for so long, for taking care of himself and following his own dreams. I know I’ve never met the kid, but I cared about him deeply.

Eventually, Yassop came out of his grieving, while he had the support of the crew, we all knew the choices he made were his own doing.

Since we learned the news of his wife, he had been turning to me for more comfort and support than ever. I’d be lying if I didn’t say I enjoyed the attention. Often times he’d lean his head on my shoulder and I’d put my fingers in his dreadlocks, rubbing his scalp, soothing his worries and regrets.

We had never passed the line of more than friends while we thought he was still married. I refused to even entertain the idea, but now I was noticing lingering touches and glances. Hugs lasted longer than they should, and friendly kisses on the cheek were becoming closer and closer to my lips.

Was I ready for this? If I got into a relationship with him would he abandon me too? Would it be different because I was a pirate and on his crew? These thoughts plagued my mind on repeat.

One night after a rowdy party, everyone drinking way too much alcohol, I found myself falling into bed with him. It was passionate due to the years leading up to it. Between soft open mouth kisses he confessed to me that he’d fallen for me long ago. The truth is, that I had fallen for him too.

In the morning, despite the splitting headache I had, the sore muscles, and aching love bites, my heart was the thing that hurt the most. Now that we had crossed the line, where would we go from here?

A strong muscled arm wrapped itself around my waist, pulling me closer to his chest.

“Stop thinking too much baby, your thoughts are so loud” he mumbled into my neck, his dreadlocks tickling my shoulder.

“I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to wake you up” I stated honestly.

“I know you’ve got your worries… I would too if I was in your shoes, but things are different with you and me… we’re both pirates, you're strong and take care of yourself… We have the same dreams and aspirations, the same responsibilities to the crew. I won’t ever have to leave you” he promised me while peppering kisses over my face.

I didn’t know where things would go from here, but I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t at least try to make things work between us.

I’d figure out all the hard stuff later, but for now, now I was going to enjoy being in the arms of the man I loved for so long.

[akagami-no-laney]

Of massages and misunderstading

Characters: Hongo, OC, Shanks, Benn Beckman, Yasopp

Word count: 2450k

A/n: so.... I really hope it's ok.

Hongo woke up feeling like he was born again. He slept for 8 hours straight, nobody has asked for his help, nobody seemed to be sick anymore. Of course, he loved his job and the crew, but after a month of flu, sore throat, cough and stomach bug, he surely needed some rest; and a drink because he survived without throwing himself overboard.

He was heading to the galley for breakfast, when someone knocked at the door of his office.

Oh shit. Too good to be true.

He opened the door, preparing himself for another hard day, but he breathed a sigh of relief when he saw the girl in front of him.

“Good morning, princess!” he said smiling.

“Good morning. I wouldn’t say it’s a good one anyway. And don’t call me princess” She stared at him with angry, sleepy eyes.

“Oh, little miss Laney can talk in the early morning?” he joked.

“Only when absolutely necessary.”

“Come in and tell me what’s the matter.”

“I just woke up with headache, the worst of my life I’d say, and stiff neck. I can’t turn it on the left side.”

“The worst headeache of your life? Even worse than your 18th birthday?” he asked.

“Yeah… wait, what do you know about it?”

Hongo laughed, with a cocky smile on his face “Oh, we know everything little miss! So, headache, stiff neck… you have no idea why?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Should I?”

“Well, try to think about it.”

“I’m too tired, I can’t.” she said, hoping he would stop.

“Are you sure?”

Laney sighed. “Why don’t you give me a painkiller and cut it off?”

“Oh, you’d love that, but no darling, it doesn’t work like that.” He seemed a little bit angry. “Now, how many times did I told you? Sit up straight when you sew, no strange position when you read!”

“Come on, it happened twice” she objected, rolling her eyes.

“Yesterday evening” he reminded her.

The girl shrugged her shoulders “Unnecessary details. Listen Hongo, I don’t want to be late, I already had an argument with the captain last night and I have no intention to fight again with him today… Can you please give me some painkiller?” she asked.

Hongo saw her eyes filling up with tears. He sighed, then he shook his head. “Calm down honey, I was going to say that it wouldn’t be helpful. I’ll give you a massage.”

She hesitated: “Oh… but it won’t hurt too much, right?”

“I’ll try to be as gentle as possible, but I can’t promise.” He answered with a smile. “Now, take off your t-shirt and lay on your stomach” he said, guiding her towards one of the beds.

“The lower back is fine?” he asked suspiciously.

“Yes, no problem at all.” She answered quickly.

“Ok! So, if I do this…” he put pressure with his thumb on her lower back, making her scream. “Don’t lie to me baby girl” he whispered in her ear, sending shivers down her spine.

“I didn’t think it hurt so much.” Laney explained.

“Yes, your father said the same thing months ago. Then he threw his back out, and when I treated him, he was screaming like a child.”

Laney laughed a bit. “Oh, I would have paid to see him.”

“I know. Now, take a deep breath and relax, I’ll take good care of you, ok?”

“Yeah, ok. Wait, what happens if I swear?”

Hongo burst out laughing. “Don’t worry, you’re in neutral territory. No Berry in the swear jar but try not to curse too much.” He said.

She nodded and took a deep breath. Hongo started manipulating her neck, making her shiver for the second time in less than ten minutes. His expert touch was so gentle on her skin, despite a little bit of pain, and she let out a little moan.

“You needed that, uh?” he asked pressing with his thumbs at the bottom of her head.

“Absolutely” she agreed.

“I can feel it, you are so rigid… you don’t stretch anymore? You used to do it every day.” 

“Yeah, I stopped when you told me to pause my training. Ahh!” she screamed, when Hongo put a little more pressure on the left side.

“Well, I never told you to stop doing stretching… Start again, or you’ll need a massage every week”.

Well, where’s the problem? She thought. Ok, it was a bit painful, but the feeling of his big hands on her body was beyond words, she could get used to it.

“Tell me about the argument with boss.”

“Don’t act like you don’t know what happened. It’s Uta’s fault anyway.”

“As usual” he joked.

“Hey, I’m telling the truth! And then, she went crying to dad… who always takes her side!”

“Well, given the situation I kind of understand him.”

“Of course…” she muttered sarcastically.

“You know what I mean; anyway, he scolded Uta too.” He reassured her.

“If you say so… ouch, Hongo it hurts!”

“I know, otherwise you wouldn’t be here! Be patient darling.”

“Do you think I’ve gone too far?” asked Shanks to his first mate. He stared at the galley’s door, hoping to see Laney coming in.

“Yes. And for sure she’s even more persuaded that Uta is your favorite” He replied.

“But that’s not true!” the captain protested.

“Tell her”

Shanks sighed: “I didn’t mean to… I guess I was just to impulsive.”

Yasopp laughed: “Well, we know who Laney got it from!”

“I’m going to check if she’s ok.”

“I’ll come with you.” Suggested Benn.

“Me too. Hongo didn’t show up either, I need to speak to him.”

“Fuck, fuck, fuck!” Laney was glad that her uncle wasn’t there.

“Breath and be patient honey” replied Hongo calmly, applying pressure on the left shoulder blade.

“I know but… it hurts!” she complained, feeling the ache radiate along the arm.

“Sorry baby girl, but it takes some heavy hand.” He knew that she was suffering, but it was the only way to make her feel better.

Slowly, the pain became bearable and she relaxed a bit. “It seems better now.”

“I told you so!” he said, as he gently started massaging her right shoulder. He could feel a big difference from the other one: it wouldn’t have been necessary to treat it, but he decided to give her a little break from the agony.

Shanks knocked to the door of Laney’s bedroom, hoping to find her there. “Laney?! Have you fallen asleep?” he asked. Benn encouraged him to try again when he received no answer. “Princess? Please, can we talk?”

“Maybe she hid herself to stay in peace” suggested Yasopp “and hey, we’re in the middle of the sea, it’s not like she can run away.”

Shanks nodded, but that didn’t solve the problem: after what he told her yesterday, he wouldn’t be surprised if she threw herself overboard.

“Oh, that feels good!” she moaned.

“Finally, you appreciate my job” he joked.

“Who told you I didn’t?”

“You, a few minutes ago, when you kept complaining.”

“But that hurt! Now well… aaah” she whined, smiling.

Hongo positioned his hands between her shoulder blades.

“Now breathe in and out” he ordered and when Laney exhaled he pressed firmly on her skin.

“Aaahh!” she yelped hearing the crack.

“You felt that? I’ll do it again, and then we can take care of your lower back.”

Hongo repeated the treatment, making her groan.

“Hongo, I think I love you!”

“I agree, I love me too!” he laughed.

Outside of the infirmary, Yasopp, Shanks and Benn stared at the door: a few minutes earlier, the sniper was about to knock, but he stopped, hearing two voices. He wanted to say something, because he understood that someone was in the infirmary, a girl precisely, who’s voice was dangerously similar to Laney’s. And judging from the expression of both the captain and the vice-captain, he wasn’t the only one who thought so.

“Well, maybe it’s not what it’s look like” said Benn calmly, after a couple of minutes.

“You think so? Hongo… my baby girl… they are…” Shanks couldn’t even finish the sentence.

“She’s almost nineteen” Benn reminded him, lighting another cigarette.

“Oh, so it’s ok if she fucks a man who is the same age as her father?” asked the sniper raising an eyebrow.

“I’m just saying that she’s not stupid, she can take her own decisions.”

Shanks ran his hand through his hair: he had always stated that he wanted his daughters to be free to live their lives, and that they were able to distinguish between what is right and wrong, but this was a completely different situation! Laney wasn’t even 19, and she broke up with her boyfriend just a few months ago! What was the point of throwing herself into a new relationship?

“Hongo…” Laney whined. The doctor was treating her lower back, and for fuck’s sake, it was painful.

“I know, darling. Please, hang on and take deep breaths.”

“Shit, it hurts!” she muttered, feeling the tears in her eyes.

“I’m sorry honey. Do not stiffen up, or it will be worse. Relax and keep focus on breathing… we’re almost done.”

“Aahh! My goodness Hongo!”

“You’ve done great baby… now, get up slowly and sit.” He instructed.

Hongo laughed a bit when he saw her face.

“Is my face the same color as my hair?” she inquired, laughing too.

“More or less… how do you feel? Try turning left and then right.”

“Far better” said the girl, with a huge smile.

“Good! You’ll still feel a little bit of pain for today, but only because I’ve just treated you… now, lay down on your back, I just want to check something.”

“It looks like they are really going for it” commented the sniper.

“Do you mind? It’s my daughter you’re talking about.” Shanks scolded him in annoyance.

“All the more reason why I’m saying this…”

Laney let out another moan of pleasure, as Hongo was gently massaging her jaws.

“Do you grind often your teeth darling?”

Laney nodded.

“Yeah, I’ve noticed that, especially when you’re angry. I can feel how tense you are, and that’s one of the reasons of your headache.” The doctor explained.

“Really?”

“Yes. So, try to find another way to take your anger out, ok little miss?”

Well, there is a way…, she thought, but she didn’t say anything, and lifted her thumbs up, to let him know that she had understood.

They remained in silence for a while: Hongo was still massaging her jaws and she relaxed a bit, smiling.

Then, the doctor started again to manipulate her neck.

“Everything’s fine baby doll?” he asked.

“Mh-mh” she whimpered.

“Perfect” murmured the doctor. Then he embraced her head, and after a few seconds he made it turn to the left with a loud crack.

“Oh my God Hongo!” she screamed a little bit shocked.

“What the…?” Shanks was astonished. He was about to enter in Hongo’s office, but Benn stopped him.

“Come on, that was nothing!” the doctor laughed.

“You could have warned me! Don’t you dare do it again, otherwise no cheesecake for you!” she advised.

“Ooohhh so I deserve a cake!” he affirmed cheerfully.       

Laney sighed. “Well, I made you skip breakfast, and I know these past weeks have not been easy for you… Actually, I didn’t want to bother you, but I know the second you saw me like this, you would get mad.”

“Look… you’re right: I was a little bit angry before. What I always tell the others also applies to you, if you’re sick come to me immediately. Have I made myself clear?”

“Yes” she murmured.

“Good” he said and took advantage of that moment to embrace her head again, this time making it turn to the right.

“Oh fuck!” she yelled, making him laugh.

“Don’t worry little miss, we’re almost done” he reassured her.

“Almost?” she repeated.

“Yeah, don’t worry. Sit now, slowly.” He ordered, then he embraced her, running his strong arms under her armpits and then crossed them behind her head.

“Lift your arms and place your hands on mine.”

Laney did as instruct.

“Ok, hold tight…” With a quick move, he leaned against the girl's back, pushing her forward and lifting her slightly with a resounding crack.

“Aaahhh!” she moaned loudly.

“Perfect darling, we’re done” the doctor informed her, smiling.

“You’re a bad person, you know it? You can forget the cheesecake!” she told him, heavily breathing.

The man shrugged: “I’ll ask Lucky to bake a cake for me.” He joked. “Anyway, do you really feel better? Everything is fine?”

The girl nodded. “Thank you so much Hongo.”

“I’m here for you, my favorite pain in the ass” he replied, pulling her into a hug. He gently caressed her long red hair as she let him lull her in silence. Laney was unable to explain why, but that was perhaps one of the few moments she had felt at home on the Red Force.

“Ok, that’s enough” said Shanks angrily and knocked at the door. “Hongo, are you there?”

Both Hongo and Laney were surprised by the tone of his voice.

“Yes Boss, come in” answered the doctor.

The captain stormed in the office, followed by Benn and Yasopp.

“Everything ok Boss?”

“Yeah… why is Laney here?” he asked.

“She had headache and stiff neck, I’ve just finish torturing her, now she’s fine.”

“Headache… stiff neck…” Shanks repeated, while Benn shook his head: "Idiot" murmured the vice captain.

“Yes captain… do you have problem with comprehension?” she asked, irritated.

“Dad is the word little miss… and sorry, I didn't see you at breakfast, you weren't in your room, and I thought you were sick.”

“Liar” Yasopp said, faking a cough.

“I’m perfectly fine. Now if you excuse me, I’m going to have breakfast.”

“I’ll come with you” said Hongo.

“Me too” Shanks followed them.

Laney stared at his uncle: “What the fuck is wrong with him?” she murmured.

“Forget it, darling” he said, kissing her cheek. “Remember to put a Berry in the swear jar later.”

“Oh shit”

“Correction, two Berry”

********************************

Later that afternoon, Laney began preparing the ingredients for the cake, when she saw a hand grab a peach from the basket.

“No! I need that!” she screamed angrily. She looked up and saw Hongo taking a bite of the fruit.

“Sorry little miss, I couldn’t resist… it looked so juicy” he apologized, as a trickle of juice ran down his chin.

“Well... all right, I'll take another one.” she said, feeling he legs shaking. Hongo thanked her with a kiss on the forehead and left the kitchen.

“Laney?” Yasopp approached her.

“What?”

“Beware of the wet floor.”

[genogenocrazycatman]

Throne - Chapter 15

Throne [Archive of Our Own, FanFiction.Net]

Characters:  Original Female Character, Red Haired Shanks, Benn Beckman, Lucky Roo, Yasopp,

***

“I can be very disarming.”

“Looks like you’ve been disarmed,” I jabbed, not looking up at him.

Benn let out a loud laugh at that.

Shanks grinned. “You wound me.”

“Clearly, I’m not the only one.”

Hello people. So if you don’t know, what’s going on here then the simple version is that this a Shanks x OC fic.

If you follow me, and the One Piece stuff I write, then you’ve probably heard me talk about this fic. Hey look it’s finally here.

***

Chapter 15

 "Did you miss me, Captain?" I asked, leaning down and smirking at Shanks.

  "Like you even have to ask,” Shanks scoffed, resting his head in his hand. “Of course I did. So much so that I'm sitting here at this ungodly hour-"

  "It's like 8:00 am," I cut him off, deadpan. I slid into the booth across from him, picking up one of the menus from the metal rack at the end of the table and flipping to the first page. "Hardly ungodly."

  "The Devil’s hour-“

  “You know what- ” I glanced up at him again. “Since you’re awake, that may actually be true. You win this round.”

  Shanks shook his head. "Still feels like I lost."

  I smiled as I flipped through the menu. "Good. Someone has to keep you humble. I've seen your face all over the papers these past few years. They've officially put you in the same league as Kaido, Big Mom, and the Old Man. I'm sure Benn could use a break."

  "Beck’s probably half the reason we're in those papers," he retorted.

  "How is my favorite?" I asked.

  "Ruining all my fun," he said with an exaggerated pout.

  ‘How the hell is he cute?’

  "Good.” I nodded, setting the menu down. “I'd be disappointed otherwise."

  "What about you?" Shanks asked. "How are you?"

  The waitress made her way over to us at that moment, which I appreciated. The momentary pause gave me a second to think about how to answer.

  It had been two years since I'd hidden all my shit in Rayne's secret hideout and took to the seas, leaving the island that I had called home for over 20 years. How do you condense that into an answer fit for polite conversation? Not that any conversation I ever had with Shanks was polite.

  I prattled off my order before turning my attention back to Shanks, who was still looking at me expectantly.

  “You know, I was more aware of the outside world than most everyone else in Aurora, but knowing and experiencing are two totally different things. And I knew it was going to be hard, but some days are just brutal. Everyone else has a head start, and it feels like I’m desperately trying to catch up sometimes.

  “But it’s been worth it,” I answered honestly. “It’s been nice to just exist without worrying about stepping on toes or starting a witch hunt, getting to do things and see things like other people.”

  There was a lot more behind that, and I felt like I owed it to Shanks to explain, but now wasn’t the time. I just wanted to take a moment to enjoy reuniting with a friend.

  Shanks’s smile softened. “I’m glad. You seem a lot happier.”

  I calmed, relieved that he didn’t push further. “I am.”

  Shanks shifted in his seat, sitting upright. “I told you piracy would suit you," he said, smugness seeping into his tone. “It’s like you’re glowing.”

  I raised a brow at him, settling back and crossing my arms over my chest. "Captain, who said I'm a pirate?” I challenged.

  “I could be but an intrepid adventurer-“

  “Uh-huh,” he deadpanned.

  I narrowed my eyes at him, trying to keep up my stern demeanor. “Or I could be writing a book about-“

  “How to attract Trouble with a capital T?”

  “If I remember correctly, I am Trouble.”

  “Of course. How could I forget?”

  “I could be a bounty hunter,” I threw out there. “Here to chop off your head and deliver it to the Marines on a platter."

  "You like me too much to decapitate me."

  "But do I like you more than the billions of bellies I'd get in exchange?"

  "I'm worth more alive," he offered.

  "That's true," I conceded. "Guess I'll have to barter with Benn then. I'm sure he and I can come to some agreement regarding your surrender. I'd offer him a cut."

  "He'd probably pay you to take me."

  "True, I would be doing him a favor."

  We just stared at each other for a moment before bursting into giggles. I had forgotten how easy this was.

  "So Eliza, if you're not a pirate," Shanks started, as my food was set in front of me. "What are you?"

  "I was only sort of joking," I said as I picked up my knife and started to spread butter on the stack of pancakes in front of me.

  "About? The piracy or bounty hunting?"

  "Bounty hunting,” I answered.

  “So this is a plot to capture me. I see. The truth comes out.” He grabbed his fork, touching his food for the first time since I arrived.

  “You have some time before I do.” I doused my pancakes in syrup. “I’d like to at least see what the boys will offer me to look the other way.”

  "Then I guess it's good that they'll all be at the tavern tonight. Care to join us, Eliza?"

  "Just can't get enough of me, can you?" I joked.

  "Never," he answered, casual as ever. "Plus, I've got three years to catch up on. I got heard a little when we returned to Aurora, but-."

  "You went back?" I was surprised. "For what?"

  "Best sake comes from the West," he explained. "Plus, I was hoping to see my favorite bartender, but to my surprise, I found out that she left. And now the tavern employs her harem."

  “Oh no,” I groaned, hiding my face behind my hands. ‘The girls.’ "They're not my harem,” I corrected.

  "Really? Cause I think they're all in love with you. And isn’t releasing slaves a bit above a bounty hunter’s pay grade?”

  I dropped my hands back to the table, picking up my fork again. “So, you knew I wasn’t a pirate?”

  He shook his head. “No one really answered the question about what you had been doing. They were too busy telling us about how great you are, and how cool you looked, and how nice, and how strong, and-“

  “You can stop,” I said, pointing my fork at him.

  As a bounty hunter, I was picky about my targets. I didn’t target any old pirate with a price on their head. I wasn’t going to send someone to Impel Down for the rest of their life for something that any one of my brothers could be doing. But slave traders were fair game, and I could usually collect a pretty penny.

  For a few months there, I lingered in the waters surrounding the Sabaody archipelago, taking these bastards out before they could get to the auction house.

  I was able to get most of the victims started on their journeys back home, but there were a few who had nowhere to go or had been willingly turned over by their families. For the most part, they chose to start anew.

  After hearing me talk about Rayne and Gene, they’d asked if I could get them started to the West. I warned them that Aurora wasn’t welcoming, but they insisted, saying that after what they’d been through, they were sure they could handle a couple of jackasses. Plus, they didn’t have to worry about devil fruits or pirate family members, and Aurora was lowkey enough that they would likely never have to worry about being snatched again.

  I was glad to hear they were doing well, even if they were apparently embarrassing me.

  “Now you’re getting shy on me?”

  “Shut up,” I muttered.

  "You still don't accept compliments well."

  "Your hair's still ridiculous."

  "I know what you're trying to do," he said. His eyes focused on my hairline. "But I can't let that one go when you have a streak of your hair that isn't even the same color."

  "A standard color,” I countered.

  "Mine is natural. It grows this way. It’s more natural than yours."

  "I never said that your hair wasn't natural. And I’ve never accused you of dying it. It's just ridiculous. But so are you, so it fits."

  "You look like a skunk."

  "You smell like one."

  "Weak."

  "Whatever."

  Shanks let out a giant yawn.

  “Did you not sleep?” I asked, taking in his appearance. His clothes were more rumpled than usual, and he had bags under his eyes.

  “I told you I was caught up,” he said, eyes glancing over at my journal, which sat on the table beside him. “You’re not the only one who was excited,” he settled back into his seat. “You know, you could’ve just met us at the tavern,” he said. “Though I do appreciate the theatrics.”

  “I thought about it,” I admitted. “I also thought about the possibility that I would walk into a tavern where a bunch of dudes vaguely remember me, and it would all be really fucking awkward, even though you’d probably be too nice to actually let it be awkward. So if you actually wanted to see me, you could reach out.”

  Shanks threw his head back and cracked up laughing.

  “Will you shut up?” I hissed, throwing a napkin at him as all eyes turned to our table. I hid behind my hand. “God, this is so much worse than if I had just shown up,” I muttered.

  “You’re not any better. There’s only one fucking place to stay on this damn island, and it’s not like you showed up once you knew I was here.”

  He blinked owlishly at me for a moment. “I could’ve gone to the inn,” he agreed as realization set in.

  “Captain,” I started slowly. “How long have you been at this table?”

  “About two hours,” the waitress said as she filled my coffee cup.

  This time, it was my turn to crack up obnoxiously. “I can’t believe you waited here for two hours!”

  He shrugged. “You’re an early bird, and you like breakfast. I figured you’d end up here eventually. In my defense, I was still half drunk when I came up with this plan and sleep-deprived when I decided to act on it. And I was right.” He gestured towards my pancakes.

  “You’re hopeless. What if I decided I wanted to get lunch? Dinner? What ab-”

  “I’ve been waiting three years to see you, Eliza. What’s a few more hours?”

  “If you can wait a few more hours, then you should go to bed, and I can meet you later at the tavern,” I offered.

  He waved me off. “I can sleep when I’m dead.”

  “With the way you drink, that’ll be sooner rather than later.”

  “You say that, but I’ve seen you put back an entire bottle of whiskey like it’s water and not have even a hint of a buzz. If I had to guess, you could out-drink half the crew.”

  I snorted. “Just half?

  “You could always challenge them tonight if you want to back those words up.”

  I pretended to think about it for a second. “Don’t tell them I’m coming. It’ll be a surprise.”

***

Previous | Next

***

Master List | Mobile Version

[seaoftales]

❝ You'll have to forgive me for not sounding too thrilled to see you again. You did try to annihilate me and my crew not too long ago. I doubt anybody would easily look past that. ❞ His tone was laced with mild annoyance, though Red Hair took note of the fact that the Red Force wasn't facing a barrage of canons and whatever other ungodly creations Kid made. Even with that notion in mind, he wasn't about to let his guard down that easily or underestimate the rookie standing in front of him ---- even if he was a rookie no more. The three billion berry bounty spoke for that in its own right.

Considering what had played out between them during their last encounter, Red Hair found it rather refreshing that Kid didn't want to fight, at least not yet. He still managed to deliver quite a speech, one that even had Beckman impressed, if he were to judge from the glance he threw over at his first mate. Shanks, too, was impressed from the essentially 360 degree turn in behaviour. Perhaps a diplomatic way of solving this would be beneficial, or at least help establish some sort of rapport between the Supernova and the Yonko.

❝ Wanna know what makes me so special, as you put it? Years of experience and not going with my head through the wall and only after thinking about the consequences. ❞ Shanks had no Devil Fruit powers, nor did anybody on his crew. All the red haired captain had that he could rely on were his wits, strength and Haki. Kid wasn't the first one to underestimate him. Many did so before him, many thought they could so easily overpower him, some even going as far as flaunt their bounties in front of him and his crew to make themselves appear all the more important. As if a bounty ever truly represented what kind of pirate one was. If anything, it was a reflection on how much the World Government feared them, and they feared most pirates.

Kid wasn't like other pirates. Going against Big Mom and defeating her with the aid of another Supernova was a feat that spoke more than words ever could, and from his perspective, it all indicated towards that he was set on taking down all of the Emperors so the newer generation could take over. Luffy took down Kaido, Kid Big Mom, Whitebeard was killed at Marineford. Only Shanks remained of the old ones, a relic of the olden days and testament to times changing rapidly and a new world order being established, first among pirates, and then the rest of the world.

❝ You will have your fight, ❞ Red Hair finally spoke, eyes filled with nothing but determination. Whether he would die to the hands of Kid or Blackbeard or end victorious in both battles, only time would tell. ❝ I'm curious as to what your goal is exactly. Getting to the One Piece? Becoming King of Pirates? Preventing me from becoming just that? I have no such ambition. ❞ A blatant lie, though the youngster didn't need to know that. Shanks' plans were his own, the only other person being privy to them being Beckman and nobody else.

He knew not to underestimate an Emperor. He'd been forced to face Kaido unprepared, and it had led to the the most humiliating defeat of his life. Well, now it was the second most humiliating defeat. Wano had been hell, but he'd survived that nightmare and gotten his revenge, he and Killer both. Kid might not have been the one to finish the lizard off, but he'd gotten in a solid hit, and he could be satisfied with that. Big Mom, on the other hand, had been privileged enough to experience the full repertoire of his abilities, and now she was in the ground alongside Kaido. He hadn't done it alone though, and he didn't doubt that without that damn surgeon he wouldn't have succeeded, they'd both needed each other even if he hated to admit it.

No, by the time he'd seen Shanks' fleet at Elbaf, he knew not to underestimate and Emperor, even more so than when he'd started out. But he'd also become a hell of a lot stronger since their first meeting, the one that had left him with this battered and broken form. He knew that he had a chance that time, that if he could hit Red Hair with the same blast that even someone like Big Mom couldn't shake off, that he could turn the tide. After all, unlike the two he'd fought in Wano, Shanks didn't have a Devil Fruit. He should have been at a disadvantage. Kid should have had the upper hand.

And he'd failed. Despite everything he'd overcome, it still hadn't been enough. Devil Fruit or no, Red Hair's strength had been beyond anything he could ever have imagined, he hadn't even been given time to react. He'd lost his ship and some of his crew, and been left for dead in the water. It was only thanks to the strength and determination of his surviving crewmates who could swim, and possibly to the Victoria herself, that he and Killer were still here now.

They'd salvaged what they could, and he'd been able to pull together something that could be considered seaworthy. Something that could at least get them back to a place where they could start again. One thing that remained, that even Red Hair couldn't destroy, was his flag, damaged yet still flying proudly atop the mast. He'd been determined to find the man once more, before they moved forward. And now he had.

He stood firmly at the bow, good arm crossed over his metal prosthetic. No doubt Red Hair was surprised to see him, at least he could revel in that. To his credit, Shanks' tone revealed little. "You don't sound very happy, Red Hair." He smirked, but only for a moment. For once, he wasn't here to taunt an Emperor.

Golden gaze fixed on the other man, scarred brow creased. It was some time before he spoke again. "I was willing to risk it all on that attack. Put my life on the line, 'cause that's the only way I know how to play. I was convinced I had what it took to take you out, same as Big Mom, and you proved me wrong. I... really thought it was the end of the line for me, but Victoria and my crew said otherwise. So I'm still here."

"I ain't out for revenge, it's my own damn fault for not bein' strong enough." He uncrossed his arms, clenching his fists. "I came so fucking far, and yet somehow you're still miles ahead! I don't understand what you've got that makes you so goddamn special!" He snarled, eyes blazing as he threw open his arms. "I want a proper battle, Red-Haired Shanks!" Then... he stops, hands falling to his sides.

"But I know I can't do it now, any more than I did back there. I ain't nowhere near you, you proved that. And maybe I should've died there, thought I was gonna. But I didn't, whether it was your plan or not. But one thing's for certain, long as I'm alive I'm never gonna turn back, ain't even an option. So we'll find our way again, get stronger. And then we'll have a proper fucking battle!"

"I've still got a goal that I'm not letting you or anyone else get in the way of!"

[myonepiece]

pillow fight

Shanks x fem!reader

inspired by this 💘

“_____ you don’t want to do this-”

“you shut the fuck up, don’t make me use this! now... I’m going to walk past you and leave through that door, you’re going to stay where you are- Benn I see you don’t move!”

your eyes flicked between red head and his best friend, your arm retracted ready to throw your plush weapon at them if either made the wrong move. you slowly stepped towards the door past Shanks who’s eyes followed your every move like a cat waiting to pounce on a mouse.

Benn took a step forward and your head snapped towards him giving the man a warning glare- you would attack if that’s what it came to. you reached the doorway and called out.

“Lucky! Yasopp! get your weapons!”

a voice yelled back through the ship.

“ready _____!”

you took once last glance at Benn and Shanks making sure neither was getting ready to run after when you were out the door. you quickly turned on your heel and dashed through the doorway and down the hall towards Lucky who waited at the entrance to the stairs leading onto the deck. 

you neared the stairs but all of a sudden you heard a series of footsteps behind you and Lucky screamed for you to dodge- but it was too late. a weight fell on top of you and face planted into the floor with the first mate on top of you. 

“Lucky run! save yourself!”

“I can’t leave you _____!”

“you heard the woman, Lucky! leave unless you want to meet the same end!”

Roux clenched his jaw and his grip on his pillow tightened, though you couldn’t see his eyes you figured they were probably analyzing his enemies’ positions and how he could get you out. coming to a conclusion he faked a throw at Shanks so that Benn would sit up to block or catch the pillow, as soon as the first mate was partially up, Lucky lunged forward grabbing your outstretched arm and yanking you out from under the man.

“damn it!”

Shanks shouted as he barreled down the rest of the hallway to stairs only to be cut off by Benn when he stumbled after Lucky actually threw his pillow at him. you followed Lucky out onto the deck which was fortunately empty because the rest of the crew had retreated to their rooms.

you reached the top deck and ran to stand beside Lucky who was positioned at the very end. Shanks sprinted up the stairs grinning maliciously like he had finally cornered his pray- only to stop cold in his tracks as he came face-to-face with the real predator.

“I wouldn’t move if I were you, Boss.”

Shanks narrowed his eyes as his previous victory faded from his expression and he glared at his sniper, who had quite the good aim at pillows. but this wasn’t a pillow, and this wasn’t a pillow fight- this was a war.

Yasopp stood between Shanks and you and Lucky, his gun drawn and aimed at his captain.

“I don’t want to do this Boss but you know I will.”

the sniper smirked and gestured with his gun for Shanks to walk over to the side. the red head looked at you and Lucky, then at Yasopp and his gun, then began towards the side. about three steps in he was interrupted.

“not so fast Yasopp.”

Benn appeared up the stairs with his own gun aimed expertly at his crewmate. who’s smile fell while Shanks’ reappeared- how the tables have turned. Benn grabbed Shanks’ arm and pulled him back to retreat to a safer distance, not that any of this battle was over.

--------

Benn and Shanks stood at one end of the ship while Yasopp and Lucky Roux were positioned at other, each man had drawn his gun. you were supposed to be up there too, with Lucky and Yasopp, and the captain and first mate thought you were- they thought you were crouched down behind big pile of barrels, simply because Lucky and Yasopp would look there or speak in the direction as if talking to you while you hid. they were completely oblivious to the fact that you were sneaking through the hall towards the stairs leading up to to the deck where the two foes were located, your gun in hand. your plan was working perfectly.

you stealthily made your way up the stairs and onto the deck behind Beckman and Shanks. you grinned mischievously and nodded at Lucky and Yasopp who were trying to contain their own smiles as you raised your gun.

“freeze.”

both men visibly tensed.

“put the guns down or so help me I will shoot.”

Benn and Shanks slowly leaned over and placed their guns on the floor, though their hands never left the weapons.

“you think this is a game Shanks?! leave the guns! tell your first mate to stand the fuck down!”

the two left their guns and put their hands up while they turned to face you. Lucky and Yasopp soon joined you wearing victorious smiles.

“you bitch.”

Shanks glared at you which only made your teammates laugh. 

“you’ve been beat, Boss. accept your defeat.”

“never.”

Shanks’ stubborn attitude always infuriated you during your fights, but. it also made the victories so much sweeter.

“Yasopp.”

“yeah?” “ready the plank.”

the sniper pulled out the long slab of wood and placed it dangling over the side of the ship. Shanks and Benn were led over at gun point, little did you know, they had no intention of jumping. Yasopp and Lucky were standing a little ways behind you, so when Benn and Shanks turned so suddenly the two lunged towards only you. 

“it’s a trap!”

you stumbled back and was pushed into Yasopp by Lucky- who ran straight towards the two other men and stopped them in their tracks.

“Lucky!”

you and Yasopp shouted in unison as Lucky’s feet left the ship and he fell to the water below taking Beckman and Shanks down with him. you sat frozen in Yasopp’s arms momentarily before uttering out:

“he saved us.”

to which Yasopp added.

“he sacrificed himself for us.”

the two of you stood up and you wiped a fake tear from your eye as you walked to the railing of the huge ship. you and Yasopp each held your hand to your forehead and proudly saluted for fallen teammate.

“oi _____! can we come up now?!”

you peered over the edge with Yasopp and amusedly rested your chin in your hand, a smug smiled plastered across both your faces as you watched Benn, Lucky, and Shanks bob in the water below.

[pandora-writes-one-piece]

The Meet Cute - Ace's Story - 5

Source for pic

Firestarter 5

Word Count: 4862

Tags For The Whole Story: Fem!Reader, slight NSFW (It's mature, not explicit), slightly sugestive behaviour, flirting, jealousy, frenemies, sexual tension, miscommunication, unresolved tension, slight angst, slow-burn, romantic comedy vibes, alternate universe modern setting, swearing, drinking, fluff, feelings realisation, denial of feelings.

Special Warning: English is not my first language, I apologise for any possible spelling or grammar mistakes.

Summary: After moving away from the hustle and bustle of Grand Line City to help your father around the property following a horse-riding accident - and in the hopes of healing your broken heart after your asshole ex-fiancé cheated - you settle into the country calmness of the Calm Belt. You intended to have some alone time, to reflect and heal, but your childhood friend's older brother, Ace, seems to be there just to upset that fragile peace you're striving for. He's a flirt and a womaniser. But why does he also have to be so handsome and perfect? And how long can you resist his charms?

Notes: And just as things progress, they fall back again. Is it Ace's problem, or is it the fact that you have so much trouble trusting his intentions?

Tag List: @rosidaze @beachaddict48

Masterlist for previous introductory chapters.

|Previous Chapter| | |Next Chapter|

You refuse to let yourself be broken down by this. It's nothing you weren't expecting. You just need to remain cool, gather your wandering thoughts, and actually go back to acting like a friend around him, instead of acting like a jealous girlfriend. 

Because you are not!

You regret almost immediately blowing up in his face, but it’s such an uncontrollable feeling! And you are in no way entitled to it. You’re just his friend! Nothing else!

Though you're not quite sure why he was acting so cold towards you, it's nothing you don't deserve, seeing as you've treated him quite coldly during the party as well, maintaining your distance, trying to avoid exactly this feeling of powerlessness. 

Did he deserve the way you snapped at him? 

No. 

Were you right about it? 

No. Probably not. 

But seeing him shy away from your touch made you feel slighted, and made you feel, once more, like you're less than the girls he usually hooks up with. Like you're not enough. An empty feeling that settles somewhere around your stomach and makes you nauseous.

Shanks raises his eyebrow at you when you pass by him outside. Benn Beckman waves and you are forced to stop because you don't want to be rude to your father's good friend.

“Benn! Hi!”

He says your name and chuckles as he crosses his arms over his chest. “You're all grown up, look at you!”

“And what an interesting choice for an outfit…” Your father grunts as he spots Ace's shirt. 

Crumpling your smelly dress in your hands, you stutter before letting out a nervous laugh. “Right! I spilled a drink on my dress and A-... hmm, Ace lent me his shirt.” You mumble the last part as Beckman stifles a laugh with pursed lips. 

To his credit, Shanks controls himself rather well. He takes two deep breaths and tousles his hair, his eyes wandering around and stopping anywhere but on your own. “I, um… you… um… Is Ace…” He exhales sharply and you decide to cut both of your misery short. 

“Nothing is happening between me and Ace. I got way too drunk and Ace threw me in his bed  before I drank even more and-...”

“What?!” Shanks’ face reddens and Beckman whistles. 

“No, not like that, dad, come on! He just put me there to sleep it off before I passed out! He took care of me, nothing else.” You groan while hiding your face behind your hands. “God!” You squeal. “Can I go inside, please?”

“Yes!” Shanks grunts, exasperatedly and you disappear, Beckman’s laugh still echoing in your ears. 

-*-

You pace your room from one side to the other, phone in hand, hair still wet from showering, and dripping fat droplets on your bare shoulders as you still have the towel draped around your body. You've drafted about three different texts to Ace. And you've deleted them all. 

You want to apologise to him but, at the same time, you're still mad at him. So it's a weird feeling, one that hangs heavily upon your stomach. 

Sighing, you lock your phone and stand at your window, staring straight at Mr. Garp’s house. At Ace's window. 

Huffing your frustration into the air, you lean on the windowsill, one hand resting against your chin and the other crossed over your chest. 

You're obsessing. You know it. And you need to shake that feeling away! If you could just… 

“No!” Suddenly you gasp, your eyes opening wide. Snippets of last night start to play in your mind and you are rudely reminded of what you said to Ace. 

What you did to Ace. 

Ride that cowboy. Scratch that itch.

No! 

Did you really straddle Ace and try to kiss him? Did you suggest he should just fuck you so you could both move on? Have you no shame?

Your cheeks burn as your breath quickens. No wonder he was so cold with you in the morning! You treated him like a piece of meat! 

And he refused you again… 

But this time he was absolutely right! You were drunk! 

As if on cue, Ace opens his curtains, hair also dripping wet and towel on his waist. He's about to turn but he sees you. You can't see the expression on his face, but he doesn't seem to be smiling. 

You wave shyly. 

He doesn't. 

Sighing, you unlock your phone. You deserve the cold shoulder. But he deserves an apology. 

His phone doesn't even ring once before he picks it up, already guessing what you meant to do. 

“Hi.” You whisper and see him cock his head to one side, hand sitting on the side frame of the window, arm muscles flexing, and you thank the gods above for the distance because this is a very sinful image of him. 

“Hey.”

“I'm sorry. I…” You face-palm yourself in embarrassment. “Ugh! I just started to remember what I said and did to you last night! I'm sorry, I'm so sorry!”

A few seconds pass before you're greeted by his chuckle. “Okay.”

“No, no! It's not okay!” You wave your hand in the air. “God, Ace! I’m so embarrassed even thinking about it. I didn’t mean any of it! Please, don’t take it seriously… alcohol does funny things to me!”

Even though you can’t see his expression from this far, you watch as he scratches the back of his head. “I didn’t even take it seriously yesterday. Don’t worry. I know you were pissed drunk, which I kind of warned you about, so that’s on you.” He still sounds very serious. 

“You were right. You were so right! And the things I've told you today? When all you wanted to do was help me and keep me safe…!? You were right to keep your distance from me this morning! I practically harassed you Ace, I'm sorry… I’m such a big idiot…” 

“I’m not upset with that, don’t worry.” His tone seems lighter, but he’s still holding back.

“Then if that wasn’t it, why were you acting so distant this morning?” Your voice is barely a whisper. You try to recall what you might’ve done wrong besides that whole riding him debacle, but you come up short. Unless you really were right and he wanted to hook up with someone and you cock-blocked him. 

He remains silent for a while, maybe weighing if you're worth sharing his reasons with or not. “Just hungover. Sorry about that.”

“I’m not sure I buy that answer.” Grunting, you sit at the windowsill, eyes never leaving his form. He shakes his head and gestures. 

“Don't sit like that, crazy! The window’s open! You might fall.”

A light chuckle escapes your lips. “So, does that mean you accept my apologies?”

He gives you a thumbs-up from across the window. “You're okay by my book, Firestarter. But seriously, get off from there.”

Raising your hand in a silent apology, you take your legs away from the window, sitting up. “I'm off the sill. And, for the record, I like that…”

“What?”

“Firestarter.”

His chuckle sounds warm this time and you smile at him, even though he might not be able to see the smile from where he's standing. 

“Yeah, I like that too…” 

You take a very deep, steadying breath, and the thought of hanging up crosses your mind. You should hang up. You don't want to get more involved. You really don't. You need space from him. You need to stop this obsession. 

“So, what are you going to do now?” He asks, putting an end to your miserable thoughts. 

Twirling a strand of hair in your hand, you take a step back. “Get out of this wet thing, dress, and I don't have any more plans today. Maybe I'll call Nami to see if she's going to the Jubilee.” 

You remember there being a fair there, with rides and other games, and a big Ferris wheel. You might check that out. 

“Need help with the dressing part?” He says cheekily and you realise he’s trying to get your flirty dynamic back on track, so that pulls a cheeky grin from your lips as well.  

Don't get involved. Space. Stop obsessing. He flirts with everyone!

“I can manage alone, cowboy.” 

You hear him chuckle again. “I'll be at the Jubilee later. The firemen have a little stand there, selling some merchandise and today is my day to manage it. If you go, stop by, will you? We have calendars.”

“Oh! You do? Like the sexy ones?”

“Could they be anything else when I'm on them?” You can practically hear his smirk over the phone. 

“Well I was thinking more about Luffy… And Robin says that your coworker Franky is quite the man as well… Maybe I'll see if they're featured in my favourite months.” 

You giggle at his reaction because he takes a step back with a hand over his heart. “And here I was, willing to sign your copy…”

“Well, if you put lipstick on and leave a kiss near your signature, I might get a copy, then!”

“It's a deal.”

Simple, easy, fun, natural. You sigh. You need to distance yourself from him but it's so hard. 

“Bye, Ace.” You whisper. Maybe you just have to resign yourself to pining and obsessing for an unattainable man forever. You're only hurting yourself, anyway. 

“See you later, Firestarter.”

-*-

The girls aren't free. It's one of their coworker’s birthday and there's a dinner and a party they need to attend, but they promise to join you to watch the fireworks at midnight. Since the rest of your friends are all at the Jubilee, you decide to go, even if you're going solo. 

Dressing casually in jeans, a halter top and a cardigan, you cross your fingers and pat your car affectionately before turning the ignition. It works perfectly and you realise you still haven't thanked Kid for fixing it. 

Finding a spot to park gives you a headache but you finally spot a minivan leaving and gleefully take its place since it's really close to the entrance. 

The festival looks really pretty with all the lights and music, and the sweet smells of candied apples and popcorn. People seem happy and that makes you smile as well. You spot your father and approach him to lay a kiss on his cheek and see how his back is. 

“I'm fine, bug. Benn is doing all the heavy work.” His friend chuckles as he lifts another kid by the waist so he can ride the pony. “You're alone?”

Nodding, you fake a pout. “Nami and Robin have a birthday party to attend.”

“And Ace?” He tries with a slight raise of his brow. 

You try to disguise a blush, but fail miserably. 

“He's working, dad. And we're just friends. Now I'm going to stroll around and say hi to people. Do you want a hotdog?”

He pats your head patronisingly. “I'm fine, bug! See you later.”

You say your goodbyes to your dad and Beckman and continue your stroll. There are homemade goods stands - jams, honey, dried meats - there are handmade product stands - jewellery, toys, linen - and that's where you spend most of your time, actually buying some handmade cute jewellery before you move on. 

There's a place for the animals - where your father is - and then, up ahead, the games and food section, where you intend to spend some time and hope to find familiar faces. But you intend to buy a hotdog first, since you skipped dinner at home, knowing there would be plenty of food to taste at the Jubilee.

You’re in line waiting and swaying your feet to the beat of the happy song, when your turn finally comes.

“A hotdog, please. With all the works!” You smile and fish out a bill from your wallet.

“Make that two and I’ll pay.”

A smirk appears on your lips as you look to your side only to be met with Ace’s wide grin. He’s wearing the fireman’s uniform, well, half of it anyway. He has the uniform pants on, but only a black t-shirt on top. A freaking fitted black t-shirt that showcases all of his ripped muscles. 

“You paid for the pizza, the other day. It’s my turn.” You whine and stand on tiptoes, trying to reach the lady behind the high counter of the food truck before Ace, but he’s taller and familiar with the lady, as it seems, because she smiles at him and takes the bill from his hand, completely ignoring you. 

“Come on, Firestarter, did you really think I was going to let you pay for food?”

“Yes!”

“Well, you were wrong.”

He receives the two hot dogs, thanks the lady and beckons you to follow him. You’re expecting him to go to the tables in the food section, but he goes into the back of the food truck and, after walking for a little bit, to a place less illuminated and away from the Jubilee, - completely ignoring your questions as to where he’s leading you - you realise you know where you are.

It’s the park. The kids’ playground where you used to play when you were younger. Except it has new toys now and an iron fence around it, with a gate that’s apparently locked at night. 

“Hold this.” He says and hands you the hotdogs. You do and he jumps the fence with ease by placing one hand on it and jumping over. You would be impressed, if the fence wasn’t just a very small thing that hits you around the waist. “No cheering?” He asks with a grin.

“A child could do that.”

“That’s where you’re wrong, because then, this fence wouldn’t be necessary.” You bite back a chuckle as to not indulge his jokes, but he notices your amusement. Then, without notice, he reaches and picks you up, bridal style, to hoist you over the fence.

You yelp but you can’t do anything because both your hands are occupied with the food, so you let him carry you to his side of the fence, expecting him to put you down immediately, but he doesn’t. 

“You can put me down, Ace.” Did your voice falter? Because you’re sure it did.

He just smells so good. And he’s so warm, and taut, and he’s staring right into your eyes, making you shiver and hold your breath. You can’t stop staring at him as well and all you can think about is how good his lips would feel against yours, and are they as soft and juicy as they look?

Is he leaning in, though? He’s leaning in!

He’s leaning in!!

There’s an alarm blaring in your head telling you to pull back or to jump or drop a hotdog, anything to get you out of this situation, but you want this situation so badly. What is wrong with a kiss? Could your thoughts from the previous night be correct? If you scratch the itch, as Nami so eloquently put it, could you be free of it?

Sadly you don’t get to put that theory to the test, because both of you hear a low chuckle coming from the swings and the sound of old swing chains creaking.

“You guys are really adorable.”

“Deuce!?” Ace exclaims with a loud groan and you take the opportunity to swing your leg to the side and get away from Ace’s hold. You almost lose your balance, but his grip on your back doesn’t falter and you don’t fall. 

“I’m serious.” He sounds serious. “Adorable. I’m not even going to intrude. I was going to stay silent, smoke my blunt, and watch, but damn, do you two send out some extreme sexual vibes.” He laughs at your expression. You don’t look at Ace but you’re pretty sure he’s wearing a similar one. “Maybe work that out soon? It will become unbearable and one of you will explode.”

He looks purposefully at Ace, who gulps. 

“Now, I’ll really get out of your hair. For the price of a hotdog, please!” He smirks and you curve your lip upwards as well. He and Ace are quite similar, you can see why they get along. 

“Here, freeloader, beat it!” Ace removes one of the hotdogs from your hold and gives it to Deuce, who accepts it and then proceeds to take your hand in his again, ready to lay another kiss on the back of it, but Ace shoves him with his foot.

“I said beat it!”

He pretends to be hurt and leaves by simply opening the gate of the fence with a click and shaking his head at both of you with three tsks. You stare at Ace with a frown. “Did you know the gate was unlocked?”

“Maybe?” He shrugs and chuckles. “You can’t blame a guy for trying.”

Pacing forward with a fake pout upon your lips, you sit down at one of the swings. “Well you just lost yourself a hotdog.”

“Meh, I wasn’t even hungry.” He says but his stomach betrays him and you laugh.

“Take mine. I’ll buy another later, you’re probably on dinner break, right?”

He sits on the swing next to you and, after another bit of coaxing, takes the hotdog from your hand. “Yeah, I am. I need to get back in around fifteen minutes.”

You smile and start to swing back and forth, your hands gripping the chains of the swing. “Oh and you decided to spend that time with me? Should I be flattered?”

He stays silent for so long that you have to look at him twice because you think he might have choked on the bread. He just looks pensive and hasn’t even taken a bite of his meal. 

“It’s not supposed to be something to make you feel flattered. It’s not like you’re the chosen one, or whatever… I just like spending time with you.”

What did he mean by that? You’re the chosen one? You don’t get it.

“I don’t get it.” You say without slowing down your swinging. He remains quiet for a moment, his gaze fixed on the hotdog in his hands. 

“What I mean is…” he trails off, chasing the right words and you’re surprised. You didn’t take Ace as someone who could be at a loss for words. “I don’t have any ulterior motives when it comes to you. I just want to be with you. That’s it.”

He sounds so sincere that you use your feet to stop abruptly. What is he trying to say? That you’re somewhat special? Different from those other girls he spends time with? 

Then it hits you.

He wants to spend time with you as friends. That’s why you’re different. That’s why he doesn’t have ulterior motives. That’s why he keeps rejecting you. The kiss when you raced, the kiss at Luffy's party. It all makes sense. 

You take a deep breath and smile widely. “Yes, I love our friendship too, Ace. Thank you for spending time with me, as a friend. We’re good friends.”

Have you said the word friend enough? Or variations of it? Because by the defeated look on his face, you sure have. But why does he have a defeated look? Wasn’t that what he meant?

Then it hits you again. If you set the ‘friends’ bar, then the chase is over, and he lost, even if friends is all he ever wanted to be, right? That’s why he looks defeated. It has to be it.

Right?

Are you even making sense? It seems like your logic has some flaws, but you refuse to give them much thought. 

Sighing, he lets out a pained laugh. “Yes, we’re friends.” He says your name sternly and starts to eat his hotdog. The air becomes thicker and awkward and you don’t quite know how to make it light again, but Ace simplifies things for you by getting up abruptly, having finished his food in just two bites. 

His hand raises and he scratches the back of his head, trying to smile, but it never really reaches his freckles or his eyes. “Well, I’ve got to go back. Are you coming?”

“Yeah.” You nod and jump off the swing with a perfect landing. This time he opens up the gate of the fence and both of you leave. The silence is very uncomfortable and he whispers a short goodbye before heading back to his stand. 

You feel somewhat guilty for his mood, but you’re not sure you’ve done anything wrong. He’s the one with the commitment issues - you think. You’re just the one with the unmanageable obsession and trust issues. 

How is that supposed to even work?

A heavy sigh leaves your lips as you take a look around, exploring what you want to see next. You wanted to see the firemen’s calendar, but Ace didn’t invite you to go with him and you sense he might need some space. 

So you might as well hop onto the Ferris wheel to take in the view. After a surprisingly short amount of time in line, you get on and the view is amazing. The twinkling lights of the festival, the people wandering around, the excited kids and the smell of popcorn and candy floss. 

All of it brings a smile to your lips, even though your mood is still a bit sour from before. Yet the ride quickly comes to an end but not before bringing you some clarity of mind. You need to clear the air with Ace. You like being around him too much to let things remain awkward between you.

So you go in search of the fireman stand, hoping he’s not too mad at you.

However, you hear a rumbling noise and alarmed screams, and turn in time to see a collapsing stall near the vendors. There is a woman passing by that got trapped amongst the poles and the tarp and the rest of the stall seems about ready to collapse on top of her.

People are already gathering and trying to help, but you see a quick movement to your right and glimpse Ace running towards the action, a serious expression upon his face as his fireman training kicks in and he quickly frees the woman from the collapsing stall, earning a victorious cheer from the crowd and a smile from you.

Your heart flutters and you sigh. Ace really is something else.

“Are you alright?” He asks the woman and, even though the crowd disperses, your attention remains focused on him. The woman is very attractive. She has long, flowy blonde hair, a beautiful face and she’s clearly dressed to impress in a short, tight dress. 

Smiling at Ace and batting her eyelashes, she holds him in a tight hug. “Oh, I am! Thanks to you! I was so scared.” Her voice trembles and you don’t doubt one bit that she was scared. You were scared and you were a mere onlooker. Though her nails digging into Ace’s chest are a bit too much, you think. “You saved my life! How can I ever thank you?”

Her voice quickly turns from shaken to seductive and you raise an eyebrow. 

“I was just doing my job, m’am.” Ace chuckles and grins. That cute, cheeky grin that takes up his whole face and makes his freckles jump. Your stomach clenches and you bite the inside of your cheek. 

Ace lets go of the woman but she still lingers close, clearly interested. “Oh, none of this m’am business. You can call me by my name.” And then she leans in to whisper her name into his ear, her hand cradling his neck and he doesn't do anything to push her away. You scoff while turning around.

You just want to be friends. You don’t have to listen, or watch this. He can do whatever he wants. 

But as soon as you take another step forward, your attention still focused behind you, you bump into a stall, knocking over a display of jewellery and, clearly, announcing your position to the man you were attempting to leave behind. You apologise profusely, embarrassed, even though the older lady - it's Makino, one of your dad's friends! - tells you it's alright and not to worry. 

“Hey, you came back, I was afraid you left without saying goodbye. Need help?” Ace's voice reaches you from behind and you turn with a grimace, half-expecting him to be with the woman from before, but he's alone. 

Forcing a smile, you shake your head while your hands keep tidying up the display. “It's fine, I'm fine. Thanks. You can go back to your… uh… fan?” You shrug and smirk. 

“Don't be like that. I was just being polite, it's part of the job.” He makes his point by crossing his arms in front of his chest. 

“It's good to know that all firefighters let themselves be fondled by the women they save. Maybe I should get myself into some trouble just to earn the same benefits.” The last part comes out in an almost incomprehensible mumble but he still catches it. 

“Like you'd need to be in trouble to fondle me. Just say when. Right here? Right now?”

You bite your tongue to stifle a laugh because you were meant to be annoyed at him. But it's nice that he's actually joking, after the weird atmosphere left between the two of you on the swings. So you don't say anything else on the matter. More so because you spot a beautiful bracelet on the stand: it's orange and it has one feather hanging. It's a charm bracelet. And you're actually charmed. 

Ace notices the way you're enamoured by it and reaches for his wallet. “Hey, Makino, I'll take the bracelet for the pretty lady, please.” He grins at the older lady behind the counter and she chuckles at him with a glint in her eyes. 

“No, Ace, come on! Stop buying me things!” You blush because Makino starts to giggle at both of you. 

“Never.” He states and hands a bill to pay for the bracelet.”

“Thank you, Ace. You've got good taste.” She winks and turns her face to you, but then her grin turns mischievous. “But you know, those charms come as a set.” She grabs another bracelet, this one blue with two feathers. “Here, this one should be worn by you.”

Your blush deepens as Ace grins and takes the charm. “Really?”

“Oh, no, Ace, that's not necessary! We don't need to have matching anythings.” You turn to Makino and shake your head. “We're not together!”

She simply laughs as Ace ties the bracelet around his right wrist. 

“I don't care what you say. We're twinsies, now.”

You want to face-palm from embarrassment but end up laughing with him. You're struggling to get your bracelet on, but before you get the chance to ask Ace to help you, the attractive woman he rescued comes sauntering over to him. 

“Here you are, handsome. Let me pay you that drink now, as a thank you.” 

All these things happen at the same time and you barely register them: The woman snakes an arm around Ace's and pulls him, kissing him on the cheek affectionately, Makino frowns at Ace and the woman, the cord of your bracelet snaps from the added pressure, and you gasp with surprise. 

“Uh… I…”

Ace starts but you save him the embarrassment of having to make up some lie. “It's okay, Ace. I was just leaving anyway. Go have fun.”

Makino grumbles something beneath her breath - you’re pretty sure she’s calling the lady a lot of unspeakable things - as she snatches the bracelet from your hands and, with deft and nimble fingers, trades the broken cord in a heartbeat. 

“I can stay.” He mutters, but you see the woman's nails digging into his biceps as she leans her breasts towards his body and smirks at you, daring you, provoking you and, clearly stating that you know she’s better than you, prettier, more interesting. Your heart clenches and tightens. 

You'll only ever just be friends. Nothing more. He doesn't want to kiss you because you don't look like that. You're not that attractive. You made your ex cheat on you because you're not good enough. 

God, now is not the time to tear up. “No. I'm leaving.” You thank Makino politely for fixing your bracelet but you don't put it on. Instead, you turn away and will your feet to walk fast, one in front of the other, your fist clenched against the bracelet. 

“Wait!” He calls your name but you don't stop, you're pretty sure he saw the beginning of your tears and you know that if you turn now, they will leave the safety of your eyes and you’ll break.

You can't cry over him because you're nothing to him. 

One step in front of the other. 

“Wait!”

But you don't wait. You leave him to his new girl. Who's everything you will never be able to be for him. 

One step in front of the other. 

You didn't want to be just another one, anyway. So being nothing will have to suffice.

[queereddie]

Hello dear^^ Can I have headcanons for Ace and Benn Beckman reactions to their female S/O flinching during an arguement? Thank u❤️

hi yes of course!!!!! <3 (benn's got really long i'm sorry jhcbvsjdhb)

ace and benn beckman reactions to s/o flinching during an argument

Ace:

-arguments between you two don't happen very often. ace is too easygoing to start any fights with you, plus he loves you so much that he wouldn't even want to

-however, as with every relationship, they happen occasionally

-tonight, with the two of you fighting, your voices kept raising until you both were practically yelling back and forth and it was already starting to make you panic a little

-nobody likes being yelled at but especially not when it's ace, because you know with how laidback he usually is, that means that if he's loud, he's pissed

-"you're not listening to me!" he yelled, then lifted his hands to run them through his hair in frustration

-but when he did that, you couldn't help but flinch away from him, closing in on yourself as he realized what he did and what you must have been thinking

-your eyes were still closed tightly, awaiting an impact that never came

-you could hear him say "hey, wait, no-" and then you felt his hand on your cheek so gently, the other on your hip, and even though it was as light as a feather, you still startled again at the suddenness of it

-he removed his hands from your body, but remained close with his wide eyes staring into yours as you finally looked up at him

-"hey," he whispered, just barely brushing his fingers across your cheek, then cupping it once he saw you had relaxed a little. "you know i would never hurt you, right?"

-you nodded, but he looked so hurt and so upset at himself for making you believe he would ever lay a hand on you in anything other than love. how could he scare you like this?

-he started to pull you into his arms, but hesitated for just a moment to see if it was okay with you. when you didn't pull away from him, he took that as an invitation to pull you against his chest

-he didn't let go of you the rest of the night, whispering soft "i love you"s and apologies and swearing to both you and himself that he would never scare you like that again

Benn Beckman:

-benn was the type that would give you absolutely anything or do whatever you wanted him to in order to make you happy, so arguments were practically unheard of

-i'm not kidding, like this man would go to the ends of the earth to make you happy, he absolutely adores you

-but of course things couldn't always be perfect and sometimes things got kinda heated (and not in the fun way)

-usually, he wasn't one to talk with his hands, which is why it made it so startling when mid-argument he threw his hands up in the air

-the suddenness of it made you flinch and take a step back, your heel hitting the wall, reminding you that you were as far away as you could get and that he most definitely had the upper hand in this situation

-your eyes stayed closed for a moment, and when you realize that nothing was coming, you slowly opened them only to see benn standing there staring at you in silence

-the look on his face was one you couldn't decipher, but you knew it wasn't good

-"i'm sorry," you whispered, even though there was nothing for you to apologize for. you couldn't help your reaction, but before you could even get the words out, he had raised his hand to silently tell you not to continue

-his mouth opened as if to say something, but then he closed it, turned around, and walked out with his head down

-it wasn't until you had waited for nearly an hour for his return that you went to search for him

-it felt like you had looked everywhere with no luck, but finally, you found him hidden away in the ship's little office, sitting at the desk with his head in his hands

-when he heard you walk in, he looked over at you for only a moment before returning to his original position

-"you shouldn't have come looking for me," he said quietly, but that didn't stop you from approaching him or from tentatively resting a hand on his shoulder

-"why not?" you asked, barely above a whisper

-"because i scared you," he responded as he looked over his shoulder at you. "you thought i was going to hurt you."

-"i didn't," you denied. "i just... got startled, is all."

-benn gently grabbed your wrist in his hand, then turned in his chair so that he was facing you. he pulled you closer to that you stood between his legs, then lifted your hands up so he could place gentle kisses to each of your knuckles

-"i... would never," he promised. "i would rather throw myself into an ocean full of sea kings than to ever lay a hand on you. i need you to know that."

-all you could do was nod, and lean in so that your foreheads were pressed together

-"i know. i trust you." you gave his hands a small squeeze

-and benn couldn't say anything else

-he lost all his words

-all he could think was that he was the luckiest man in the world to have you and that he would do everything in his power to make it all up to you

[muselexum]

@indomiitas​​ sent:

58.  DEFEND :  for one muse to save the other from one or multiple assailants. { from Beck for Akane!!! -indomiitas }

various scenarios -> [meme]

Her forehead had grown damp from exertion and her stress was heightened when a dark apparition began to form where Uta once stood, a haunting melody filling the air. Despite the circumstances there was an air of calmness over Akane, her many years of training and experience kicking in to keep her head level. What helped the most was perhaps that she had no personal attachments in this matter. It was just a duty. That’s right. If it was a duty, a mission, she could focus.

It didn’t matter how much focus she had though. The situation was getting way too out of hand.

Civilians began to pile onto her and a claustrophobic feeling clawed up her throat. She threw a few of them off but as soon as she did, more replaced them. Her adrenaline was pumping and her mind kept sending her signals to fight, fight, fight. She resisted, if only because Beckman and assumedly her father had made the call not to harm anyone.

Her jaw clenched, Akane falling to a knee as more bodies threw themselves at her. The punches were annoyances, but it was when one of them began to bite down on her arm that she reacted, wincing and lashing out before she could stop herself. A metal fist collided with their skull, once then twice, and a third swing was about to come down on them when her wrist was apprehended in a tight grip.

Her rage fizzled out when her gaze met Beckman’s. His features were formed into a stern expression and all she could read from them was disapproval. Still, Beckman must have recognized her situation and empathized with it because he did not waste any time in detangling her from the mob. 

“Thanks,” she muttered, wiping away at some sweat that had found its way to her temple. The two leapt away from the mob so they could rejoin the main group. She knew there were much bigger and more serious things at hand, yet she couldn’t help but dwell on what had occurred. She kept glancing over to Beckman and finally allowed the apology to leave her throat, “Sorry- about that. I know what your orders were.”

[tooweirdforyou]

Hiiiii hope ur doing well❤. I was wondering if i could get Shanks with a female who he leave at the village the same day he leave luffy. And after a few year s/o was done waiting and decided to leave and become a pirate captain of a very dangerous crew with a very high bounty has all three Haki types [ A bout a Billion]. And s/o meets Shanks at the Marineford but s/o is all cold hearted and bitter. She still loves him but would never forgive for leaving her.

Have a good day/night❤❤❤

Shanks With An Old S/O From Years Ago

A/N : Oi, I hope y’all aren’t expecting an angsty ending 😖 no way am I going to do that.

note : originally, I was going to make this two parters, or at least begin with reader and Shanks before he left, but then it’d take even longer and I still have tons of requests to do.. and this is pretty short.

I changed it a bit too—

warning : MARINEFORD SPOILER * also, this is pretty different from the actual scene, I wrote my own scene because I can’t remember nor did I want to search it up.. so it’s my own scene but still contains spoilers!

Summary : Once lovers, now strangers, Shanks meets his significant other once more in a unexpected time and feelings are returned from the past.

-

Why now?

The old sinking feeling of your heart dropping down to your stomach was enough to make your blood run cold.

The sight of one of the four powerful emperors made you frozen in the spot.

Eyes widened in shock with mixed feelings bubbling up inside you, lips parted but no words could even begin to form. Not with him around, no.

Thoughts were interrupted by a deep voice.

“I think we’ve shed enough blood. Why don’t we end this war?”

Saving the young and brave, pink-haired marine from a tragic death from Akainu, Emperor, Akagami no Shanks had his signature smile present, hand gripping his sword and successfully blocking Akainu’s fist.

“I-It’s Red-Haired Shanks!”

“What is another Emperor doing here?!”

“Emperor, Red Hair Shanks. This war has nothing to do with you. What is your reason for your arrival?” Akainu scowls, raising his fist that was currently boiling with magma.

Shanks takes a small look around to see the damage done from the war that has just occurred, and amidst his scan, his eyes fall onto you.

His eyes turn wide from shock, while yours quickly turned away from him, to avoid his lingering stare and attention from the others.

Before anyone could notice the sudden awkward silence in the air, you began to walk off, your crew following suit.

Clearing his throat, Shanks turns back away, recovering from the shock of seeing you at a place like this before speaking.

“I believe we have had enough of this war. Many lives have been lost. What do you say, Sengoku?” Shanks then pulls a smirk on his face as he pulls back his sword from Akainu and held it out suggestively.

“Unless, you truly would like to continue it?”

Behind Shanks was his entire crew, Beckman smoking, Lucky Rue eating meat, Yasopp with his gun rest on his shoulder, etc.

Sengoku closes his eyes and remained silent before turning away. “We shall call it an end.”

Shanks nods as he sheathes his sword. “Very well. At least allow his family to give him and his son a proper burial as well. It’s the least you could offer.”

Referring to Whitebeard and the fallen Ace, you pause in your tracks after hearing Shanks.

Sengoku ponders for a minute before sighing. “I’ll allow that. But nothing else. Now, leave. Before I find myself a reason to start attacking you now.” Sengoku commands.

With that, the marines began to gather the injured, with the command of Sengoku, whilst the Whitebeard Pirates started to retreat, a few lingering back to recover their fallen people and the now deceased.

“[Name]. What should we do? The war has ended, and Straw Hat Luffy has retreated and being saved by Worst Generation Pirate, Trafalgar Law.” Your first mate reports, walking up to your side.

You look around the navy headquarters, seeing the mass destruction that has been caused and the pained and tearful expressions of the Whitebeard Pirates.

Though relief filled you from the thought of Luffy being saved, the overbearing pain you felt from seeing someone was taking over.

“..We’re done here.. let’s get—“

“[Name].”

That voice.

The familiar voice was nearly enough to make you stop, to think back on the many memories you had with him, to actually wait and see what the man wanted to say.

But you didn’t. You didn’t stop. You kept walking.

“[Name], wait. Can we please talk, for even just a minute?”

Reaching for your wrist, you instinctively tried pulling back but the Emperor’s grip was tight. But almost immediately, he let go and pulled his hands back to his sides.

You look at him, staring at his eyes that were filled with hurt and even the smallest hint of regret.

The sound of a blade un-sheathing from its scabbard interrupted your thoughts and you put a hand out, successfully stopping your first mate from harming the Red-Haired.

“Don’t. You’ll only cause unnecessary trouble.” You tell them, making them exhale and reluctantly turn away.

“What should we do, Cap?”

Exchanging glances with Benn and Yasopp, you receive a nod from the two of them and Benn faces the Red-Haired Pirates.

“Let’s head back to the ship.”

You turn to your own crew and directed your head in the direction of your own vessel. “We shall as well.”

Just as the others began walking, you stop, feeling Shank’s eyes lingering on you, waiting for your answer.

“.... Let’s talk then... we’ll talk on my ship and I’ll take you back to yours afterwards.”

Though you couldn’t see it, you could see the grateful smile that was forming on Shank’s lips as he nods at you. “Thank you.”

-

... Tension was eating away at the silence.

The two of you sat alone in the office. Your office. You stood behind your desk, next to your chair while Shanks stood in center of the room.

However, fortunately Shanks cut the silence by speaking.

“You’ve grown.”

“I have..”

Nodding once absentmindedly threw Shanks off for a second before he recovered.

“.. you’ve made quite a name for yourself. I’m surprised you became involved with this war though.” Shanks starts and you sigh, turning away.

“Someone had to watch over Luffy. Otherwise he would have gotten himself killed. God knows he needs someone to look after him after the person he idolized so much left him.”

You didn’t mean to start off so blunt and rude right off the bat, but it seemed to slip out.

However, Shanks wasn’t fazed but his expression merely softened and saddened at your words.

“Look..I didn’t have a choice, I-“

“Don’t give me that, you know damn well you perfectly had a choice.”

Shanks stammered for a second before letting out a heavy sigh. “[Name]. You have to understand..”

His gentle tone.

The way his body was striding over to you.

The way he slowly raised a hand to bring to your face.

And the way you just let him do as he pleased.

And you wish you didn’t feel it. But you did.

The same sparks.

You wanted to jump into his arms. Lean into his touch and let him hold you for all the years that went by.

But you couldn’t. You didn’t. You weren’t willing to make the same mistake twice.

You pulled away and pushing his hand aside, you walk around the desk and away from Shanks, arms at your side and practically hugging yourself.

Pain was evident in the two of you.

“Shanks, stop...”

Looking up at Shanks sorrowfully, you feel your chest ache and you knew Shanks did too. He felt the same sparks after all.

He knew he wasn’t the only one who was still having feelings.

“[Name]..” Shanks spoke in a hushed tone, carefully making his way around the desk to go back to you. This time, you didn’t stop him.

“Hey, look at me.. please.”

And you did.

“Believe me when I say this, I have never stopped loving you. You are the only one that has been on my mind all these years. I watched your bounties rise.. I checked in on the news on your growing fame and powerful crew by your side.. there has never been a time where I stopped thinking about you.”

Cupping your cheeks gently, caressing your skin with his thumbs, he leaned closer and closer until your noses touched together.

“I still love you, [Name]..”

He whispers out, staring into the abyss of your [ e/c ] just seconds before closing in on the space between you both.

Pressing his lips to yours, you felt the aching in your heart start to swell and fill it’s emptiness with the tiniest bit of warmth Shanks offered.

And you couldn’t help but kiss him back. Wrapping your arms around him, you let yourself just lean into his hold and all the pain you felt disappeared in seconds. You couldn’t even tell how much you longed to feel his lips against yours once more.

Eventually, you did pull away and look down, but felt Shanks press his forehead against yours and moved his hands down to intertwined them with your hands.

“You felt it too, right?..”

You couldn’t tell if you what you were feeling but regardless, you knew what he meant.

Nodding slowly, you breathe out softly and close your eyes.

“Still.. I can’t do this.. I’m afraid it’ll break again.”

“I promise I’ll fix it enough so it’s unbreakable. This time, I’ll make sure to stick around, and never leave your side again.... what do you say?”

Whether you were going to end up regretting it or not, you just couldn’t let this opportunity slip. Especially knowing Shanks was being genuine on his part.

“Fine.. Don’t ever leave me again.”

Feeling a uncontainable grin spreading across his face, he holds your hand tight and pulls them to his lips to kiss gently before smiling softly at you.

“I’m truly one lucky bastard, if I get another chance from you.”

-

A/N : hope you liked it and it was okay!! Thanks for requesting!

definitely rushed, I’m losing some motivation, and stressing from school ;-; soo, yeah. I’ll try to keeps these long but I’ll mainly be doing headcannons now ( sadly ) and they might be short.

Thank you for continuing to being supportive of me and I wish you all a great day / night! :)) 🤍