#like Yasopp isn’t “just some guy”

[wesleysniperking]

been thinking about Yasopp…

I’ve been thinking about Yasopp a lot lately. I’m currently writing a one-shot about him and Usopp, and I keep getting caught up in some of the more stagnant ideas surrounding their relationship. What I want to explore is how they could genuinely understand each other—not just because Usopp is his son, but because a son often shares his father’s heart. Yasopp is still such a mystery, and despite his flaws, I’m fascinated by the crew member Shanks actively sought out for reasons we still don’t entirely understand. Oda doesn’t create characters like Yasopp just to leave them in the background forever.

Take Kuma, for example. He was initially introduced as a “guest star” (I’m exaggerating a bit), yet Oda went on to give him an incredible backstory that reshaped how we see him. Oda has a knack for taking seemingly one-dimensional characters and saying, “You think you know, but you really don’t… just wait.” And sure enough, what’s revealed often feels like it was hiding in plain sight all along.

It’s like how Kuro dismissed and badmouthed Yasopp, painting him as useless or trash, but it makes me wonder if Yasopp’s reputation was tainted even before he became a pirate. Maybe he was misunderstood, just like Usopp. Banchina, Usopp’s mother, might have known the real Yasopp—the dreamer, the sharpshooter, the man behind the reputation—and held onto that truth despite what everyone else thought. It’s kind of like how Kaya trusted Usopp, even when no one else did. She knew he wasn’t just a liar; she knew the pirates were real, that Kuro was dangerous, and that Usopp played a crucial role in saving their village (no, Luffy and Zoro didn’t do all the work).

Maybe Yasopp went through something similar—doing the right thing but being misunderstood by those around him. Even in the non-canon Daddy Masterson filler, there’s a flashback of Yasopp that shows a side of him we rarely get to see. His words and actions hint at a much deeper character than the drunken antics or brief glimpses we’ve gotten when Shanks is on screen. It makes me wonder if Yasopp was backed into a corner before Shanks found him, and perhaps being recruited was both an escape and an opportunity to chase his dreams.

There’s also the potential foreshadowing between Van Augur and Yasopp during Marineford when Shanks stepped in to stop the conflict. And then there’s the lingering mystery of when Yasopp realized Usopp had become a Straw Hat. Oda has deliberately kept those details from us, which makes me think there’s more to the story. Yasopp had a reputation before Shanks sought him out—but why?

I’ll admit, there are moments when I feel like giving up on the idea that Oda will dive deeper into Usopp’s story, since his backstory was laid out early on. But then I think about all these little breadcrumbs Oda has left, and I can’t let go of the hope. We don’t even know how Kaya’s parents mysteriously fell ill—Kuro claims he had nothing to do with it, so what’s the real story? And in that flashback where Shanks recruits Yasopp, why was Yasopp sitting on the precipice, staring out at the shore? Was he waiting for Shanks? Did he somehow know Shanks would come, and was just stunned to be proven right?

I might be getting carried away, but I refuse to believe that Yasopp’s absence is simply meant to support the idea that Usopp is broken or unfixable. That’s not fair—not to Usopp, or to anyone who’s grown up without a father figure. Yasopp has a story. A fascinating one, I’m sure. And it could completely blindside the fandom. But ultimately, it’s up to Oda to tell it. Because right now, we really don’t know Yasopp at all.

[penkura]

OP Men as Dads Part 2

Note: I chose to do another five OP men for this one!! My brain won't shut off about these men being dads, I'm losing it omg. I hope these are good, I kind of struggled a little but just wrote whatever came to mind. Maybe I can do a part three at some point with more of them! I have a small idea for Mihawk and Franky, but that's it so far. Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy! Sticking baby Ace for the image because I got nothing else lol.

Part One Here!

Kid is a boy dad, I’m sorry he just is. I can’t see him with a daughter really, unless she’s the youngest and was a surprise. But anyway! He’d have three boys that were all three years apart, and all are exactly like him. You really do love your sons and husband, but how you wish at least one of your boys was calm. The four of them are always roughhousing to the point you’ve had to set rules to keep from Kid accidentally hurting them, or your children from breaking things when he isn’t involved. When you have a set of twins a few years after your third son, another two boys, you’re done and just accepting your fate as a boy mom. You and Kid love all your boys though, neither of you would change anything, especially when your youngest ends up being a momma’s boy who’s finally calm and would rather spend his time with you than anyone else. Kid isn’t jealous, he swears.

~~

Usopp I can see with two girls! A few years between them, and they’re both the light of his life aside from you of course! Every story he tells them before bed makes them both so excited to grow up and become Pirates themselves, brave women of the sea! The oldest will want to help Usopp and Franky with inventions and fixing up the ship, while the youngest wants to be a sniper like her dad. You have no complaints about either one of those, more than grateful they both want to take after Usopp and following in his footsteps. Your girls absolutely love their dad, you get a little jealous sometimes, but getting to watch the three of them bond is your favorite thing in the world. It might make him a little emotional, especially after not having Yasopp around as he grew up.

~~

Shanks, I’m sure a lot are wondering about, would be such a great dad, we’ve seen him with Luffy and Uta, there’s no way he’d let down his biological kids imo. I see him with a son first, one with his hair that’s even more wild, and then twin girls! They’d all be about four years apart in age, but they’d run him ragged day in and day out. He'd teach your son how to wield a sword and help him develop his Haki, while your daughters will learn more hand to hand combat, though your youngest will join the sword lessons when she’s ready. When they’re little, he lets your girls put pins and braids in his hair, while telling all three of them stories about his time on the sea. The rest of the crew adores your children, Shanks knew they’d all be great uncles to your little ones.

~~

SHACHI WOULD SUCH A GOOD DAD OMG. You think I’m pushing Penguin propaganda, I’m here for Shachi now too. He’ll have two boys within two years of each other, yes the second is a surprise but so beyond welcomed, and then several years later a little girl that has all three of them wrapped around her finger! Your daughter would have his red hair, she’d just be the prettiest little thing, with chubby cheeks and her hair pulled back into two little ponytails. Your sons would have a mix between your hair and Shachi’s, both taking more after their dad in personality than anything. Of course, Shachi will teach all three of them to defend themselves, but especially your daughter since she’s the baby and he just wants her to be safe, even with her big brothers as her guardians.

~~

Rosinante, Corazon, however we wish to call him, he would be the best dad out of this group, I’m sure of it. Apart from taking in Law, he’d have two of his own children, a girl first and then a boy a couple years later. Law would act as a big brother to the two, it’d be the cutest thing ever. While your daughter would be outgoing and ready to take on the world, your son would much shier and would rather hide himself behind you or Corazon, normally his dad though. Corazon would NOT let Doflamingo around them; he’d probably keep the three of you a secret, maybe even his adoption of Law too, just to keep you all safe. He’s lost family before, he doesn’t want it to happen again, even if that means picking up and moving you all where his brother can’t find you. Apart from that, Corazon would make sure all of you had everything you needed, and your son would hold onto him through everything.  Your daughter would attach more to Law, but that’s perfectly fine, he’s accepted her as his new little sister and wants to protect her, he wants to protect your son too where he can. Your daughter would also want to keep her baby brother safe, not one of you would let a thing happen to a hair on his head. Corazon finally has a family again, a family of his own, he’s not letting anything happen to any of you anytime soon.

[the-obnoxious-sibling]

birthday countdown 2024, day 6: no divorce au snippet

the birthday countdown continues! today, i have for you a bit of young luffy pov from the shuggy no divorce au:

“The rest of my crew has returned to me!” Shanks called over his shoulder, running out of the bar with another laughing shout of joy.  Luffy stared after him in shock; he’d never seen Shanks so happy.  Goofy, yes, having fun, all the time, but not, he realized now, really happy.  Luffy hadn’t known Shanks was feeling even a little bit sad until it all went away.  He was pretty good at hiding his true thoughts, for a grown-up. “‘The rest of my crew,’ right,” Yasopp said with a chuckle. “Just because there’s one person he’s happier to see than the rest doesn’t mean he isn’t happy to see everyone,” Lucky Roux said with a wide, wide grin that made Luffy think he maybe didn’t really mean what he was saying. But that was fine; the idea of Shanks having one person he was extra excited to see interested Luffy.  And he had a feeling he knew who it was, too: Shanks’ first mate!

(about 1.5k below the cut)

There came a day, hanging out with Shanks and his Red-Blue Pirates, when Luffy changed some lives forever, though it took him another ten years to realize what exactly he’d done.  That was the day their secondary ship, the Blue Moon, arrived at Windmill Village for the first time.

Shanks was at Party’s Bar along with a couple of his higher ranked officers, drinking and chatting with Makino, when the man who’d been on watch dashed in with a telescope in hand.  Panting breathlessly, he held it out to Shanks, who took it outside and peered through it for a moment before letting out a happy cry. Ducking back in the doorway he said, “Makino, prepare yourself!  We’re drinking your stores dry tonight!”

Beckman and Yasopp exchanged an amused look.  Lucky Roux whooped.

Makino smiled behind her hand, like that way the pirates wouldn’t be able to see it.  “What’s the occasion?”

“The rest of my crew has returned to me!” Shanks called over his shoulder, running out of the bar with another laughing shout of joy.  Luffy stared after him in shock; he’d never seen Shanks so happy.  Goofy, yes, having fun, all the time, but not, he realized now, really happy.  Luffy hadn’t known Shanks was feeling even a little bit sad until it all went away.  He was pretty good at hiding his true thoughts, for a grown-up.

“‘The rest of my crew,’ right,” Yasopp said with a chuckle.

“Just because there’s one person he’s happier to see than the rest doesn’t mean he isn’t happy to see everyone,” Lucky Roux said with a wide, wide grin that made Luffy think he maybe didn’t really mean what he was saying.

But that was fine; the idea of Shanks having one person he was extra excited to see interested Luffy.  And he had a feeling he knew who it was, too: Shanks’ first mate!

For weeks, Luffy was sure Benn Beckman was the first mate, because he was always the person Shanks’ guys looked to if Shanks wasn’t around, and who would that be but the first mate?  But the first time Luffy tried to be polite (a fairly foreign concept to Luffy, but it did make some people act nicer) by calling him Mr. First Mate, Beckman leaned back in his chair and laughed.

“I’m not the first mate, Luffy,” he explained, “I’m the second mate.  When Shanks and our first mate aren’t around, I’m in charge.”

“Oh, I see, so that’s the order it goes.”  Luffy nodded thoughtfully.  He squinted up at Beckman.  “Then who’s the first mate?”

“Ah, you haven’t met him yet,” Beckman said, scratching the side of his neck.  “He’s been off on a treasure hunt for a while.”

“Treasure!”  Now that was a pirate thing!  Luffy’s eyes shone at the thought.  “Why didn’t the rest of you go with him?  Don’t you care about treasure?”

Beckman laughed.  “No one cares about treasure the way our first mate does, Luffy,” he said.  “He gets so focused on one map, one story of hidden, lost gold, his treasure hunts can last for months.”

“Months?!”

“The longest so far was six.  Even Shanks can’t keep up with him that long, so they have an arrangement.  When our first mate gets the urge to hunt for treasure non-stop, he and a few crew members take one of our smaller boats, and Shanks and the rest of us hole up on a nice little island for a time, like this one.  When he’s found it, or given up—though he never gives up unless the Navy gets on his tail—he knows where to find us, and the rest of us get to relax, train, make some shorter trips in this part of the sea… whatever we want to do.”

“Huh.”  Luffy considered this arrangement.  “But isn’t he really the captain of that other boat, then?  If he’s never around, and you’re always doing first mate things?”

“These urges only come on him once a year or so, he’s around often enough,” Beckman said, taking a pull off his cigarette.  “And anyway, Shanks wouldn’t have anyone else as his first mate.”

Luffy blinked.  “Why not?”

Beckman laughed.  “That’s an excellent question.  You’d have to ask Shanks.”

When asked, Shanks laughed too.  “Did Beck put you up to this?  That guy.”  He shook his head, tsking, ignoring the way Luffy was starting to steam at his question being ignored.  “My first mate’s my first mate because he’s my first mate!  That’s all there is to it.”

Fuming, Luffy shouted, “What kind of answer is that?!”

“The truth,” Shanks said simply.  “The two of us are captain and first mate.  It’s always been that way, it’s always gonna be that way.”

There was something behind his tone of voice Luffy didn’t understand.  “Is it just because he was the first person to join your crew?” he asked skeptically.  “Did you have to promise he would be first mate forever to get him to join?”

“No.”

“Then…”

“Luffy.”  Shanks was looking very serious at this point.  “There are some bonds between pirates that are hard to explain to ordinary people.  The bond between captain and first mate is one of them.  You have to know each other well.  There has to be a lot of trust there.”

“Trust?”

“Yeah.  I trust him to have my back, to guard my weak points in a fight and look out for my interests in an argument.  I trust that if anything ever happens to me, he’ll look out for our ship and our crew. I trust that he believes we’re doing the right thing, that working together is going to get us what we want—and that if that ever changes, he’ll tell me so to my face.” Shanks smiled. “There’s no one I trust more than him.”

Luffy blew out his breath huffily. “Is that all? Trust?”

“It’s the most important thing, Luffy.”

“Hm.”  Luffy didn’t know anybody he felt that way about.  Would he make a bad pirate?

“Hey, what’s that worried face for?”  Luffy explained his dilemma, and scowled when Shanks laughed again.  He wasn’t taking Luffy seriously!  “Oh, kid, don’t worry so much.  Not everyone’s as lucky as me, to find that person before I even started looking!”  Shanks’ laughter trailed off and he sighed, leaning backwards to stare out the open door of Party’s Bar.  “How much longer is he gonna be, though…?”

“Oh?  But I thought you trusted him to find the treasure and take care of the ship and everything?”

“I trust him!  I just also miss him.”

The bonds of pirate friendship ran deep!  Luffy wanted to see it for himself!  With a wave goodbye to Makino, he ran off after Shanks.  New pirates!  He cheered at the thought.  What other kinds of pirates might work for Shanks?  Of the ones Luffy knew, all of them were human men, except for the monkey… maybe a lion?  A fishman?  A bird?!

At the dock next to Shanks’ ship was a small boat with a pointy front Luffy just knew was made for speed.  It proudly bore the Red-Blue Pirates’ flag, though the red and blue swords were swapped around and it didn’t have the three lines across one eye.  Weird.  Pirates—some that Luffy recognized, a few strangers—were carrying wooden boxes off the little boat and up onto Shanks’ bigger one.  Treasure!  Luffy shook his head furiously.  No!  He could stare at the treasure later!  He was looking for Shanks now!

But to his disappointment, Shanks wasn’t doing any happy shouting or cheering with his crew.  He was hugging, the laughing-spinning-clinging kind of hug Luffy only saw when Mrs. Chicken welcomed her husband back from one of his long fishing trips.  Luffy scowled and crossed his arms at the sight.  Here he’d thought Shanks was cool, but one visit from a long-haired jewelry-covered somebody and he got as gooshy as all the villagers did.

“Aw, what’s wrong, kid?” asked Yasopp, stepping up beside Luffy.  “Did they not let you see the treasure?”

Luffy scuffed a sandal against the dock.  “I wanted to see Shanks’ first mate,” he complained, “but he’s too busy hugging his girlfriend.” Yasopp put a fist against his mouth and a weird noise came out, like when Meat (the stray cat Luffy had tried to adopt last year) didn’t like how tight Luffy held him.  Luffy gave him a concerned look.  “Are you okay?”

[monkeydluffy19920]

Reasons to love Mugiwaras: Usopp

It’s been ages but here we are again, back with the series  where I share thoughts about why I think a certain (main) character is popular in One Piece.

This series is mainly focused on the canon material but there might be bit about fillers/movies as well to make references on and since it’s impossible to include every single detail here, I try to pinpoint certain things but feel free to add stuff if something is missing :) 

The very first time talked about Sanji and then I wrote about Nami.  This part is inspired by  Luffy vs Usopp amv  (when I realized I  haven’t pondered Luffy vs Usopp much in past).  Now let’s continue the  journey and talk  about  what makes Usopp popular and lovable character (in my opinion).

This  long post might include some unorganized thoughts, repeat and perhaps spoilers, so you’ve been warned!:D

So first thing first about Usopp, in general. He is a great storyteller, a little cowardish but a great friend. Main reason I like in his character is that Usopp is very human. He isn’t the strongest one in the crew, has lots of things he is afraid of but he has a big heart and isn’t afraid to show his emotions.

Like other Straw Hats, he has a sad past too. There isn’t much told but we learnt that Yasopp has been in Shanks’ crew for a long time and Usopp’s  mother died of a illness when he was a kid. Hard to imagine this poor guy had to grow up all alone (basically) and he started lying at a early age.

It’s very heartbreaking to realize that reasons behind his "Pirates are coming”-thing was that deep down the little boy just wanted that his father could return back and he just tried to cheer his sick mom. He could’ve stopped after his mom passed away but maybe it was his way to handle the loss of both parents.

But I think it was really adorable that even though the villagers did seem annoyed by Usopp’s “prank”, then eventually when he didn’t do his daily basis (after beating Kuro) the villagers kept wondering where the sniper was, so this became sort of a “tradition” in his village. It’s great though that his friends a.k.a other members from the Usopp Pirate group decided to keep the traditions alive.

Oda’s way to write characters is amazing and Usopp isn’t an exception. It is clear that Usopp has had a very steady development. Whereas lying and cowardness is partly used as comical reliefs and “running gags” of his, at the same there is much deeper meaning behind his behavior. Lying and storytelling is important part of what makes Usopp who he is and someone would say it’s not healthy but it’s probably where how tends to mask his flaws. We learn later in that deep down Usopp has lack of self-worth and fear of getting abandoned which results that especially before Time Skip he was afraid of unknown and saw himself as a burden due to his physical weakness

Further thoughts are written in “More thoughts about Luffy vs. Usopp-post” but his pride was one of the reason why things escalated with Luffy so badly back then but also the constant fear of not being enough fed all these decisions and he in burst of emotions decided the crew will be better without him. 

Another reason for Luffy vs Usopp fight was his dream.  When entering the Grand Line Usopp told that his dream is to become a  brave sea warrior since he idolizes his father Yasopp a lot. However,  after his real journey on the seas begins so begins his inner crises  because what stands on his way are the limits.  So, before the Time Skip  he wanted to be something he wasn’t.

Usopp knows that brave  warriors are incredibly strong and fearless (like Dorry and Brogy, the  giants from Little Garden who greatly inspire him) and back then he was well aware of the reality (that he isn’t yet ready to be one) and that hurt him and fed his fears and self-esteem problems even more. 

This theme has been going along with Usopp throughout the story. So, although Usopp had learnt slowly to push back his fear and stand up for his nakama in tight situations (for example in Alabasta he was beaten to pulp and still refused to give up and stayed with Nami in Skypiea although Enel was a threat), at the same time they were adventuring, the inner doubts kept stacking, until it exploded badly in Water 7 arc. It’s because he tends to compare himself to the others, especially the Monster Trio (who literally have the monstrous powers).

The robbery of the Skypiea money and the suggestion of replacing Going Merry were definitely the final straws for Usopp and things escalated. Luffy apologized in middle of the bickering but Usopp wasn’t ready to give up on the argument and then challenged him to a 1 vs 1 (perhaps partly to test his strength but mostly because he really wanted to fight for Merry’s future).

Despite being already heavily wounded Usopp didn’t fled from the duel although he could’ve easily trolled them and escape. He still stood up for his policies. Deep down, he didn’t want to back off although he probably knew that Luffy would win eventually. The loss put his remains of self worth into zero point but then on the other hand, later he wanted to help to get Robin back (but was too ashamed to face his captain after the loss and the arguments) so he became an ally as Sogeking

This disguise made him braver but again he was put face to face with his fears and limits when he got almost killed by Jabra. Sanji comes to save him but instead of scolding, the cook motivated him to realize that they need Usopp to trust himself instead of hiding behind the alter ego he created and this is the moment when Usopp started to realize he has unique strengths too.

So, it’s after Enies Lobby that opened Usopp’s eyes for good. After it he starts to see also his strengths (of course sometimes he still gets surprised by his skills but now he is even more skilled). He already proved to be very fast as a battler, very intelligent (good with gadgets, Nami’s weapon is great example of this) and a  very talented sniper. Then after Time Skip Usopp became a source of inspiration in Dressrosa and on top of that he has always been admired by Chopper (who believes his stories). These are some positive influences that has made good for Usopp’s self-esteem. 

That’s not the only character growth though, Usopp has had in my opinion quite steady development throughout the series. First one is in his very own arc. There are more thoughts about it in  Emotional slaps in One Piece-post but shortly said Usopp tries to tell Kaya the truth about her butler but gets an emotional slap instead.  Lying has been a silly entertainment for him but now backfired him, after all it’s hard to be taken seriously if you tell stories all the time and suddenly burst out “the truth”.

Well the slap may have been a “wake up call” so after Syrup Village he gathered his bravery to stand up against Kuro in order to protect his loved ones but then later Usopp’s next big step was in Arlong Park when fools Chuu with his ketchup trick and plans a story how he barely survived and then realizes (when comparing himself to others) that no, he is now a pirate and he needs to do something, literally since his nakamas fight in the frontline too. So he faces his fears, challenges Chuu and wins and this is the first fight he survived all alone! (a great achievement especially when coming to the fact that his equipments were at that time still “rookie level”)¨

Perhaps his interest in building gadgets roots partly from his poor self-esteem. He wants to become stronger too and knows how to build things so why not using the skills for it (let’s not forget that he offered to help Nami to build her a better weapon). 

Another of Usopp’s time was to shine in Thriller Bark when he turned out to be immune to Perona’s ghosts whereas even the Monster Trio (whom he idolizes and compares himself to) couldn’t.  Then when they were separated by Kuma and after Ace died, Usopp became very determined to find a way to help his captain and rejoin and did show lack of fear when meeting scary obstacles. 

After the Time Skip he has changed a lot in a good way. He is now stronger and more confident. He still likes to lie every once in a while but it’s not always to feed his self-esteem, more like force of habit and to entertain (and for comical reliefs). In other words the matured Usopp doesn’t lie just to feel good about himself (now he knows he is a important piece of the Strawhat crew and knows he has abilities to fight off even scary enemies) like he used to.

As a crewmember point of view, Usopp has always been a good handyman in the ship but not only that, he has also been good with mechanics and therefore has had potential even before Enies Lobby.  He can be the responsible adult but also there is this kid-hearted side of his where Usopp puts up with shenanigans.

Luffy and Usopp are definitely best buddies and  and sometimes they have these moments when they share one same braincell *laughs* They also share one common goal: to reunite with Red Hair Pirates crew.  Despite the good and close bond, Usopp took a long time before he started to see Luffy more as his actual captain than a close friend. 

It is mostly because in some ways they are complete opposite: Luffy is physically strong and has an impulsive and carefree nature whereas Usopp tends to hesitate more and has more knowledge and agility instead of muscles. Like written earlier, Usopp had difficulties to keep up with Luffy’s spontaneous and carefree nature.

One of my favorite panels from the whole series is when Usopp takes off his mask and reveals himself to Luffy. He tries to act cool and denies he didn’t come for Luffy’s sake (although he partly did, because he wanted to help too with Robin’s retrieval and didn’t want his captain to give up, since they were so close to their goal). What probably made this whole scenario more powerful was that Usopp  knew how to get Luffy back to the fight and he didn’t hesitate with the motivating, even though they were separated and even offered himself to face Lucci to spare Luffy although he knew he wouldn’t stand a chance. That’s loyalty and bravery, just like when Usopp was beaten into pulp in Alabasta and still stood against Baroque Works once they mocked Luffy. 

What probably makes their nakamaship even more unique is that their arguments lead to the breaking point but they later both understood what to do in order to fix it. 

Zoro and Usopp, when it comes down to this duo, Usopp admires Zoro’s strength and skills (and at the beginning probably is a bit scared of him) and usually seeks protection from the swordsman who seems sometimes to get a little annoyed by this. However, Zoro already showed his loyalty to Usopp in Arlong Park arc where he was ready to slice Nami after hearing she killed Usopp. 

Zoro constantly keeps encouraging Usopp to face his fears and for example doesn’t let him off the hook when they decide by random who is joining Luffy’s shenanigans and also in general probably Usopp sees Zoro as the big brother and the voice of reason too.

Zoro is almost like a mentor to Usopp. Even though the swordsman isn’t that kind of guy who’d show outside the feelings but one can see that he was concerned when Usopp left. Obviously he also wanted the sniper to rejoin but first he demanded a proper apology from the Usopp because of disrespecting their captain (so Usopp could undersrand the consequences of their duel). It sounded ridiculous for some of their crewmates first and even Luffy was ready to welcome Usopp back without bigger fuss but it was very important moment for Usopp to realize this is now the real deal and made him set his pride aside. 

Interesting detail between these two was that Oda made this “role swap” in Sabaody Archipelago. There Usopp (who usually seeks protection from Zoro) is now the one who protects the swordsman and even tried to reason him not to go on the battle (when Zoro was badly wounded), basically it could’ve been anyone who carries Zoro but Oda chose Usopp which is great in my opinion. 

Nami and Usopp get well along together although sometimes the sniper is afraid when the navigator gets angry  but aside of the comical reliefs, Nami is like a big sister to Usopp and they share lot in common: both lost their moms, both are easily afraid of the unknown and both use gadgets in combat.  On the other hand they  both have been great peer support to each other and determined to quit being so dependent on other crewmates and become stronger. 

It is clear that Nami greatly respects Usopp’s skills with mechanics otherwise she wouldn’t have trusted him to build her a weapon so she could battle for Vivi’s sake in Alabasta.  They are often showed as together they are preventing Luffy from doing stupid things by beating him up but on the other hand they are also an efficient duo ending up into various problems in the field (like fighting Enel or when they ended up to explore Thriller Bark with Chopper, “the coward trio” and the latest, when they fought together in Wano against that headbutt-character).  

More importantly, both are very human in their nature (for example when Ace died both were very concerned about how Luffy will cope with an emotional trauma) and for example understand how hard it is to keep up with the rest of the crew.  Both of them also show openly emotions in good and bad. 

Usopp also is aware of Nami’s past (since he and Sanji were the only ones who listened to Nojiko’s story) so for example he got upset to Brook in Mermaid Island arc where Brook dropped unknowingly an insensitive joke about Arlong

So, they do share a special bond and therefore if someone then it’s Nami who understands Usopp’s struggles especially when it comes down to keeping up with the other stronger crewmates and that’s probably why she felt so emotional because of Luffy vs Usopp events (she could definitely feel his pain when he felt the guilt of not being able to protect the money that got robbed by Franky Family but there she proved that money isn’t her priority number 1 and showed much more concern in Usopp’s wellbeing).

Sanji and Usopp, when they first met they ended up arguing (because Usopp didn’t think Sanji treated them equally) but things change in time and they too start to see each others’ good sides.  

Oda makes an interesting way to portray their nakamaship: Usually Sanji acts like he cares only a little for Usopp, but then on the other hand the cook has sacrificed himself in Skypiea for the sniper’s and Nami’s sake and back in Enies Lobby Sanji saved Usopp from Jabra. Sanji was even willing to stand up for his captain and kicked Luffy and told him not to say anything reckless.

Maybe is another running gag it’s seen often that the cook will fearlessly rush into battle while dragging a terrified Usopp with him.  Eventually, in Enies Lobby Sanji was the one to ultimately inspire Usopp to see the value inside himself saying that while he (Sanji) was physically stronger and could do what Usopp could not do, Usopp possessed skill to save Robin and could do what he "couldn't do".

Re-reading Water 7 and Enies Lobby after WCI arc made me understand that Sanji and Usopp have actually much more in common that we thought: both had very isolated childhood without parents, both have had difficulties to keep up with others’ pace (Sanji in past, Usopp in the present).  

Who knows maybe seeing Usopp fighting with his insecurities and especially using in the mask reminded Sanji of his own “iron mask” and the pain behind wearing it. Perhaps this was the reason Oda first made Sanji to convince the others to not to reveal Sogeking’s real identiity (although probably most of them knew who he was) and later choose presicely Sanji to be the one with the speech in Enies Lobby. 

Interesting detail in this setting was that this became a parallel to Arlong Park where Luffy told that he can’t do all things, and now there is Sanji who openly admitted he wasn’t able to win Kalifa (and got bailed out by Nami), only for her and Usopp to be bailed out by Sanji in turn when the wolf man was way too strong for them. It’s just still amazing the way Sanji puts all his trust in Usopp to help them free Robin by telling the sniper: strength comes in many different forms and that even the strongest crewmembers are depending on one another to survive.

Chopper and Usopp also have their special bond and they too adore each other’s skills. Chopper keeps buying Usopp’s tales but also sees him as his hero.  Both of them are openly showing their emotions and are human in that side.

Because Chopper idolizes Usopp, it was hard to him to get rejected by the sniper when Usopp left the crew and Chopper later caught up and tried to talk him back there without good results.  After the Luffy vs Usopp fight Chopper had really hard time because he was forced to choose between his job and friends (when Sanji told him not show pity on a fallen man but later Chopper decided to go with his heart leave Usopp some first aid kit so he eventually chose friendship kindness and what  he thought was right at that moment.  

Sogeking was basically the embodiment of Usopp’s tales and probably he didn’t realize who was behind the mask. Chopper loved Usopp’s alter-ego too though. 

Usopp and Chopper are easily terrified (along with Nami) but even though they are usually scared, the sniper and the doctor make a great fighting team. A great example was that They defeated   Miss Merry Christmas  and Mr. 4 in Alabasta.  

Usopp and Chopper form the “Coward Trio” with Nami and although it’s partly a running gag, there again is some things that combine them and it’s their human nature and (outside chopper) their pretty human strength.

Usopp and Robin needed a little time for their nakamaship to develope. Probably because of Alabasta he was a bit afraid of her and her devil fruit powers (especially when she joked about her speciality to be assasinations). So Enies Lobby arc did also good for their nakamaship. 

Usopp was always willing to help Robin in Water 7 but since the circumstances were a bit difficult he had to do it in a disguise and didn’t even hesitate although he was facing Blueno who is powerful.  By that time Robin wasn’t aware of the crew being split up but despite that Usopp still told her to “have faith in Luffy”.

Just like written earlier, I think it was crucial for Usopp’s character development that Oda made him to be the final piece to the puzzle to help Robin escape from Spandam.  This strengthened their bond for good and it’s not the only time, also in Dressrosa Usopp saved her from being a toy.

What I like the most in their nakamaship is that although Robin loves to tease Usopp with her dark jokes, she also treats him with a big heart, like motherly. It’s headcanonish but I think for example that Robin helps Usopp and the rest of the “Dork Trio” collecting bugs and stuff.

Usopp and Franky had a very  rocky start since the cyborg’s family stole Strawhat Pirates’ money and beat the sniper’s butt. Then Luffy, Zoro, Sanji and Chopper caused a ruckus on Franky House so Franky decided to return the favor by kidnapping Usopp (who at that point had left the group.

Suddenly they started to bond, mostly because they started to talk about ships and it was Franky who managed to make Usopp realize that Going Merry was way beyond repair despite the sniper tried to repair the ship. Despite they didn’t know each other for a long time, Franky was definitely impressed by Usopp’s skills since the cyborg later asked him to join the Franky family.

After Franky joined the Strawhats these two began to bond even more. They both love mechanic stuff (i.e both love to build stuff and Usopp is usually the tester when it comes down to Franky’s inventions) and they enjoy maintaining the Thousand Sunny together and Franky for sure has taught Usopp a lot about shipwrighting since he heard Usopp took mainly care about Going Merry.  

It’s probably just another running gag but Franky compares his bounty towards Usopp’s a lot and frankly spoken he should have at least a bit better bounty in general compared to the fact that he has loads of knowledge (previously held Pluton blueprints) but that’s another story to tell later. 

Brook and Usopp didn’t have it easy too since Usopp was terrified of Brook when they first met. He was openly against the musician to join the crew but once he heard that Brook and Laboon had a connection and after events in Thriller Bark in general, Brook gain Usopp’s trust.

Although they get well along, a couple of times Usopp has become annoyed by Brook’s careless behavior: in Punk Hazard when he was eyeing Nami’s body (when Sanji was swapped into her)  and when Brook accidentally made that joke about Arlong in Mermaid Island.

Jinbe and Usopp, the sniper was understandably hesistant about Jinbe at the first time since Jinbe is not only a former warlord but also was part of Arlong’s Pirate crew. Despite all that the sniper ended up supporting his captain's decision about Jinbe joining their crew and after they’ve known for more, Usopp has  admired Jinbe's attitude and strength and eventually encouraged him to join the crew while calling him Boss Jinbe.

I think from after the Syrup Village and Enies Lobby, one of the most crucial arc for Usopp’s development has been Dressrosa because there he managed to unleash his Kenbunshoku Haki. It was literally a crucial shot because Luffy and Law were in edge of becoming toys. 

Let’s not forget that chapters ago he shot one of the Merry's cannons and perfectly hit his target and the crew managed to escape from Alabasta because he landed a shot on a marine ship which made it crash into another giving them an escape route.  So as said earlier, Usopp has always been very skillful with gadgets and incredible speed. At the first glance slingshot as a weapon doesn’t sound powerful but now to think about it: to land a shot perfectly you needs to be able to lock the position of your target, calculate the exact angle and force and usually you are also put into pressure.  So, Usopp is one of the best examples of underestimated power and indeed deserved all the praise in Dressrosa.

His character history still has room for questions that could have answers such as what disease did Usopp’s mom have? (like could it be cured in future if Chopper’s dream about being able to cure all diseases became true?) or how it will be when Usopp meets his Yasopp for the very first time after a long break? It seems like his dad left when he was very young so probably he mostly knows him based on what his mother Banchina told about him.

Aside from sharpshooting, lying skills and being good at engineering (especially with handheld weapons) Usopp has other talents too such as being a skilled artist and according to sbs he has also is good with hairdressing.  He is also good with gardening because he learnt in that island to cultivate pop greens.

I think one of the funniest running gag is that Usopp is a scaredy cat but one thing he is not afraid is bugs especially spiders. When Nami and Sanji screamed their lungs out because of the tarantellas (while they were looking for South Bird) Usopp casually took that 8 legged thingy to his hands. Hard to say whether his skills in arachnology has come in handy in general but I do like the headcanon that him and Luffy (and Chopper) love to collect bugs together and play with them when they have some spare time. 

All in all, if one should sum up this huge post (that again got carried away *laughs*) it’s that Usopp has made a long journey to the point where he is now standing. He started as a hesistant youngster and has grown now to a strong and (almost) fearless pirate and one day he’ll definitely become the brave warrior of the seas (although he already is one). 

[3hams]

My thoughts on One Piece live action…

PROS

The casting is fantastic. Every actor put their all into it. If I had problems with characters, it was the writing and not the performances.

Favs:

Taz Skylar as Sanji. Very charming. Cooler than his dorky manga counterpoint, but not too much. That smile is killer and the way he approached the womanizing aspect was perfection. Funny but not gross.

Jeff Ward as Buggy. Everyone is right, he killed it. Hard to do an evil(ish) clown and not bring up thoughts of the Joker. He somehow managed it.

Steven John Ward as Mihawk. I confess, I am utterly uninterested in the anime and manga Mihawk, but this guy played him like a more butch Vincent Price with his tits out. It’s the kind of drama and scale I look for in an OP character. Thoroughly enjoyed him.

Emily Rudd as Nami. My absolute favorite by far. She is an incredible Nami and gave the show direction and emotional depth. Loved her dynamic with all of the crew. Her thieving was fun to watch. So so good.

Even some of the minor characters stood out to me. Lucky Roux and Yasopp. Nojiko. Kaya.

The sets are amazing. They really built their own world. Incredibly artistry there. The music was as epic and pirate-y as it needed to be. I loved seeing all kinds of people in the main cast and the extras. Racial diversity but also nationality and body type.

THE FIGHTS. Wow, the choreography was breathtaking. Of course, Mackenyu kills it as Zoro, but they also did a fantastic job on Luffy’s CG rubber moves and Nami’s staff fighting. I had a great time watching every brawl. They may have been my favorite parts of the show which is weird for me.

I was expecting the fish men to be cheesy and not scary, but they looked and sounded great actually.

CONS

Why this pacing? I was bored stiff during the unnecessary marine storyline and then they go and rush other stories meant to build on the camaraderie of our main cast and underline OP’s theme of freedom. The manga and anime regularly make me weep, but I was fairly unmoved by the sappy stuff here. It wasn’t earned.

Usopp got shafted. I get that they had to tone him down, but he disappeared for me. He wasn’t even the starring character in his own arc. He’s my favorite, so I was bummed despite the great acting.

Confused by some of the wig and makeup choices. Stylized and cartoony isn’t a bad approach, but some of these wigs would be mocked for crustiness at a local drag show. You can do a wacky orange but make it look like nice hair. Mihawk’s contacts looked like painted plastic to me. Why did they draw a random line of eyeliner on Sham’s nose?

Some of the camera angles were overdone and made me think of 90s fantasy shows like Xena and Hercules. All the low angles and fish lens.

Shanks and Garp lost most of their charm. Again, not because of the acting, but because they wrote the humor out of them. Shanks is scary because he covers his power with that sardonic goofiness. Garp is a senile doofus to hide his strength and threat to authority. The contrast is where the sweet stuff lies.

Like most shows these days, boy was this show dark. Not metaphorically. I could not see many scenes very well with my mid-thirties eyeballs.

MIXED FEELINGS ZONE

Inaki is so sweet and cute as Luffy. He’s got his enthusiasm and his love for his people down. But he’s more naive than stupid and way more considerate than manga Luffy who never second guesses his decisions. I like them both, but they feel totally different to me. Live action Luffy is gonna be a lovable but slightly more traditional hero than my boy in the manga.

Deadpan Zoro is a lot of fun, but I do wish he were less cool and laughed more. Again, manga and live action Zoro are both great, just different. You can tell one of the show runners is gaga over Zoro. He got a lot of development.

CONCLUSION

I liked it, but didn’t love it. Not much desire to watch it again save for maybe a few scenes.

However, I definitely want it to keep going.

It has so much potential, and they can develop these characters more over time. A first season is often tough. Also, Alabasta is an excellent arc to adapt. It’s self-contained, lots of interesting enemies. Live action Crocodile has the potential to be amazing. And Robin!!

I hope this strike gets settled in favor of the workers and Netflix invests in more of the show. The roots are decent and can grow into something great. Please watch it to help that happen.

[wesleysniperking]

All mainly one shots. Archive of Our Own and FanFiction.net. I think about 4 of the rec’d fics have more than one chapter. Each fic is good nonetheless. All completed. I can recommend non-completed if anyone is interested.

I really recommend the following:

Unexpected Relief by TianaBlackwell123

This fic showcases how hard Usopp is on himself, and how he struggles with asking for help. A lot of self-blame and low-self esteem is internalized. It portrays how much of a good friend (and captain) Luffy is to Usopp. You can really feel how Usopp feels. Luffy’s emotional intelligence shines here.

Regret by Kazima Kuwabara

This fic depicts how Usopp still feels extremely bad about what happened during Water 7, and is willing to sacrifice himself (for the crew) to pay for his past hiccups. Further showcases how much of a family the Strawhats are to each other–especially Usopp. (The author is really good at writing an empathetic portrayal of Usopp).

Among Monsters by Pixi04

This fic showcases Usopp’s insecurities, and how he hasn’t “kept up” with his crew mates. But he comes to find that he isn’t right at all. Depicts the use of Usopp’s bad a$$ observation haki.

He’s a Wonderful Sniper by Chandlure

This fic is like a Christmas special. It’s sort of a “what-if Usopp never joined the crew” take on A Christmas Carol.

History Repeats Itself by Chandlure

Some good ol’ father-son reuniting. Yasopp and the Red Hair Pirates come across the Strawhats, and Usopp has fallen ill.

Let It Out by Kazima Kuwabara

Usopp is almost harmed (in a not so great, hard to think about way), and after the crew save him, he struggles to reconcile with how scared he was; in utter denial. Nakama-is-family vibes.

Pages of Love & Loss by Chandlure

This author is great at Usopp family-lore AND at emphasizing Usopp’s strengths.

What if Yasopp isn’t Usopp’s dad?

The Love Life of Lady Longnose by crackerjackermackeral

A female-Usopp is so cute to read about. Various one shots that depict female-Usopp and her potential male admirers. Each chapter is a stand-alone one shot, with a specific pairing. (Re-imagines some of Usopp’s character defining moments like Dressrosa).

Ace’s Memento by Anonymous

Ace falls head over heels for a specific sniper. There’s a twist.

Blame Me by HelloThere3306

Nami-Usopp BFF-ship is super real here. But Nakama-is-family vibes are a nice touch as well. The East Blue 5 dynamic is sweet here. Usopp gets injured due to Nami’s negligence, and she’s torn up about it.

Familiar Fear by CBM_NotWeedGuys

I love this author’s writing style. Very much their own, and they write the Usopp-Yasopp dynamic well. This fic is funny and hilarious because it depicts how maybe, very much maybe, Usopp gets his fear from the pirate whom he calls Dad.

The Truth in Our Lies by CaptainJoJo

This fic made me legit cry. Usopp is so hard on himself, and just wonders what the heck he’s even doing anymore when he’s on board with his not-so-normally-human crewmates, and he, himself, is just…some guy. The monster trio rock here. The ending is so sweet.

It’s kinda like a “we didn’t handle Usopp and Luffy’s argument at Water 7 right the first time, so we’ll be the pillar’s of strength that we truly are for the crew, instead of doing nothing” do-over for Sanji and Zoro.

To sail the end of the sea (with you) by alliumnoblade

Not necessarily Usopp-focused. But he’s in the fic, and seen through the eyes of a low ranking marine. I love it when marines look at Usopp like the bad-a$$ he really is. Also depicts that rare Nakama-ship I never knew I needed more of until now.

On Tools and Friends by xiwiO1

Robin and Usopp have a unique friendship/relationship. Their dynamic is showcased wonderfully here. Post -Water 7. Robin is so caring. Dressrosa got something right…hmmm?

i swear i’m not sad anymore by PapyrusAdvance

Usopp comes back to Syrup Village (along with the crew), and reunites with his old friends. Very hilarious and warm. The way Kaya interacts with everyone (the crew) is very significant. I love everyone here. Especially Luffy and Sanji. Usopp is the center of attention like always (and as it should be).

The Story Teller by moonbird

A nice little one shot that showcases Usopp’s knack for storytelling, and the crew watches. The writing may be a little juvenile. But its heart is in the right place, and tbh, I actually like this author’s portrayal of Usopp and his friendship with the others. Read more by them. The author gets better.

Showdown! Twelve Shots to the Sniper King by Aemillia

A lovely one shot. The setting and descriptions are very vivid. And some of you might get what you want: Usopp with a gun!

But seriously. It explores a Nakama-dynamic I never knew I needed until now. Still Usopp-POV though. Set Post-Thriller Bark.

Usopp Breaks into Impel Down & Tries to Not Have a Mental Breakdown by Chandlure

The title explains itself. Another Yasopp-Usopp reunion. Usopp-POV. Explores Usopp’s probable bouts with PTSD.

A Sniper’s Challenge by Smudgeandfrank

The writing may be a bit juvenile. But there’s nothing too glaring, nor does it take away from the story.

Basically, Usopp joins a shooting competition so the crew can earn money. As proven again, Usopp’s an even better shot with a gun. And some people are just sore losers. After all, no one knows he’s the son of Yasopp. Nice little cameos, baby.

This is what I thought I wanted (Why am I afraid?) by LoserLife592

This hits me right in the heart. But in a good way. The summary is so sweet. And the introspection is so lovely. People often wonder what Luffy sees in Usopp, and the answer is right here. A tear jerker but in a good way. It’s a happy and uplifting one shot.

This is my go-to tag on AO3.

Ignore this if you've already made a post about it but do you have any recommendations for Usopp-centric fics? Ive read some truly amazing fics from Usopp's pov but id love to find more. Honestly one of my favorite characters to read about. Ship or non-ship honestly any recommendations if you have them please and thank you

People always ask me for my fic recommendations and I am really sad to tell you all that I read fics at 2 am and I only like and comment but I never really bookmark? So I remember fics really clearly but I always forget their names 😭 This post rn is a free space for anybody that wants to recommend Usopp-centric fics tho feel free to do so

[mooshs-crack-headcanons]

Hi! Could I ask for Shanks and Benn Beckman and JQY?

Also, happy Valentine! I hope you are comfy and having nice day!

Please, dont forget to drink water and eat some yummy food!

Take care~

Hello, I hope your having a nice day as well my apologies this is late but I finally managed to finish this! I hope you like it!

Edit: I made a mistake and write A instead of J, so I wrote J in this reblog that you can read here.

Shanks 

A :  AFFECTION.  How does your s/o show affection?

It's Shanks, he's a very physically/touchy touchy kind of guy, when he's anywhere he's always going to have some kind of touch on you whether it be his surviving hand entangled with yours or placed on your shoulder or head or your ass, his chin tucked either on your shoulder while you sit on his lap at the loud bar or/and if he taller than you the top of your head while you stand out together on deck, and most commonly his arm around your waist so he can hold you close, thinking it's absolutely adorable when you lay your head on his chest or shoulders depending on your height. 

All forms of physical affection he absolutely craves and it keeps him grounded and constantly reminds him what's important, you two live in a dangerous world and with both his occupation as an Emperor and the Era shattering times you both currently live in the targets on his back grow larger every day endangering the lives of you and the rest of the Red Haired Crew - something even when he's the most wasted ass on this side of the Grandline he's actively aware and he is more than ready to defend and fight for his family when the need be. 

Q   :  QUESTION. How would your s/o ask the big question?

Well, to many factors (most of them tied to the World Government) 'real' weddings and marriages are often viewed as pointless in most pirate's eyes (unless you're Big Mom who does it for every other reason except love) If you love someone, you love someone and you have their backs until death and there's no 'official' step to get to that, the pirate life is dangerous and especially given recent years you'll never know when you'll see the next sunrise with someone again and that's why you fight and make each one count. Shanks loves you and thinks there's no point in it if the two of you already love each other and came this far and going strong and his mind doesn't change until he finds out that you're interested in getting married and that he stands back and looks at it from a different point. 

Well for starters, this is something you're interested in so doing it would make you happy which he always loves to see. Next, it might be 'pointless' but hell out of everything the crew has fought it deserves a handing of pointless fun (Shanks your crew literally drinks out a whole bar every time you go to a new island) and you know that wedding ceremony is going to be one hell of a party, one that'll get even Hawk eyes sloshed under the table. Finally and most majorly, what really gets his heart to rattle in his chest is thinking and imagining you be walked down the island clad in your fancy wedding attire tailored specifically just for you with his connections and how breathtakingly stunning you look, an image he daydreams for weeks a he debates with himself if he should ask you or not - a daydream that in the end finalizes that decision. 

Y   :   YOURS.   does your s/o get protective/possessive easily?

Yes, but not in the 'jealous' sense. Again from his occupation, connections to Roger, and all sorts of various knowledge and causing like I said in A many targets on his back so he kind of has to. Every person on his ship is there for a reason even if you can defend yourself with no problem and he knows it, hell not even with just you even with Benn or Yasopp who are masters with observation to see when danger is coming he can't help but to be aware and on standby in case that anything unpleasant rolls in, something that's clearly too much to handle and he can be ready to quickly jump in and get you out of there or to use a conquerors blast to knock out the threat. Occurrences like these are very rare to happen given the fact that majority of his crew can handle themselves and most people know not to actively with a Yonko crew unless your dumb enough you have a death wish or want to lose a limb (*cough cough* Kid *cough cough*) 

So whether you're at bars or just chilling out on any islands in the New World that's why your spot is either on his lap or in the spot next to him for reassurance which might come in the form of lots of grab ass and kisses. 

Benn Beckman 

A :  AFFECTION.  How does your s/o show affection?

Benn isn't really that much of an openly expressive individual so he isn't the type to openly initiate affection. He doesn't hate it, absolutely not he just rather be on the receiving end so that you can do what you feel comfortable with doing and he's just happy you're with him and that you keep him company. When in private he might open up a little bit by holding and kissing the palms of your hands before holding them up to his old worn face whispering the sweetest words imaginable and letting you lay on his chest and play with his graying hair before falling asleep together ready for another day on these dangerous seas. 

Q   :  QUESTION. How would your s/o ask the big question?

Same logic as with Shanks' part, 'real' weddings and marriages are viewed as pointless in the pirate world and like with Shanks it's only when he overhears that you're interested in getting married that he considers it and thinks it over for about a month or so and talks to Shanks to get in his opinion on the matter as both his captain and friend and opens about any worries he might have if this wedding would cause any unwanted attention that might ruin the day for you. Of course Shanks is supportive and excited for his first mate (as well for the wild party the wedding will bring) and he clears his mind of his worries, they're a Yonko crew if anyone is going to want to cause trouble they'll be more than ready to take care of it and continue the party like nothing happened before you know it. 

So, shortly after that discussion it isn't long before Benn has a ring box tucked in his back pocket and standing in front of your door, gathering himself together and the words he's going to say before giving the wood a couple of knocks before hearing your muffled response from the other side that you'll be there in a second. With a deep calming exhale from his nose, the first mate drops to one knee ring in hand and waits for the door of fate to swing open. 

Y   :   YOURS.   does your s/o get protective/possessive easily?

Again, being on a Yonko crew in the most dangerous waters in world he kind of has too always keep an eye out for any off guard catching dangers coming your way and greet them with a bullet (or rifle butt swing if he's feeling generous) Unlike with Shanks, Benn doesn't get too worried about any targets on his, yours, and the rest of the crews heads. Of course he isn't ignorant to them and he can clearly recognize the look in someone's eyes when they want him and the rest of the crew dead, but he has confidence that whatever threat can come that the crew can and will take care of it - even with a threat with someone like Teach and the evil his captain told about him, he might be powerful but as long as the crew can be careful when dealing with him together they can bring him down. 

But in the meanwhile Ben is fully confident in your abilities and he does trust your thinking but still that won't stop him from keeping his attention on you from the back of his mind, ready to jump in whenever necessary to help you out of harm's way. 

If you like what you read please consider reblogging! It means the world for writers and artists!

Tagging list

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How to be added the tagging list + additional info

[akaiamedama]

Of crocodiles and rings and a possible connection to a teased weakness

Crocodile is a guy that is real extra and dresses sharp and loves his bling bling, right? He’s a man of high standards, so of course, he’s gotta wear bling to show that. Other bling loving characters are Capone Bege and Blackbeard for example. All three of them like to show off that bling. Now why do I mention the other two? Coz look at these three bling loving gentlemen, wearing rings on every finger and tell me where the difference lies. I’ll wait.

Exactly!

As opposed to Bege and Blackbeard, Crocodile doesn’t wear a ring on every finger. Obviously he cannot wear 10 rings coz he only got one hand with 5 fingers but he also never wears 5 rings. No, no. This guy, ladies and gentlemen, kinda makes it a point to always leave out one finger and that’s the ring finger. Ha- interesting.

Now, of course this could be mere coincidence. But let’s be realistic here, it’s Oda. He clearly has a reason for it as he’s been true to this detail ever since Crocodile was introduced over a decade ago and the only real question is ‘why’?

Why would Crocodile do that? He clearly loves wearing rings so why not wear them on every finger? Why leave out the ring finger for crying out loud? If one wanted to leave a finger without a ring, one would probably leave out the pinky or the thumb but who puts rings on every finger and leaves out the ring finger? I tell you who.

Crocodile. That’s who.

If you’re one who believes in symbolism and all that stuff, then you’d probably find it interesting that the ring finger symbolises releationships with others especially romantical ones as it is seen closest to the heart and therefore or because of it is the finger a wedding ring is worn on. In most cultures the engagement ring is worn on the right hand and the wedding ring on the left as the right hand is often the ‘physical’ one and has a greater visibility. It’s probably interesting to note that the left hand is considered to represent your character and beliefs. Ha. Interesting that Crocodile is missing that one, huh? Anyhow, in Crocodile’s case left or right hand doesn’t really matter as he only has one left (duh) so an argument can be made that sides don’t matter and the importance lies on the finger itself.

The way it looks right now is that he’s making a statement leaving out the ring finger and there are a few possibilites here. Of course it could be a family ring and he could be from an important family but really, not only would that be a bit to similar to Doflamingo, it would also not make sense to not just replace the family ring on the occations he’s not wearing it. But he never wears a ring on that finger so one can only come to the conclusion that there’s some sentimental thought behind that.

The most logical would be that there is a ring he believes should be on that finger. Either he’s keeping it free for a future event coz he doesn’t have the ring yet (which I doubt) or he’s keeping it free coz technically there already is a ring for the finger. This could be a ring he doesn’t have anymore and regrets it (like he lost it with his left hand or threw it away) or a ring he does have but decides not to wear for his own reasons. Whichever it is, it clearly has such an important value that he doesn’t just covers it up or replaces it. 

Now, given the ring finger and it’s symbolism the thought of a wedding ring isn’t too far fetched. We don’t know enough about his past to say that he could never have been married so I think it’s worth looking into.

Let’s just imagine for a second, that the ring missing is indeed a wedding ring, what could that mean?

He could have had a wife but she died and even though he’d technically not be married anymore, people who lost their partner almost always keep their wedding ring as a memento. If they move on, they don’t wear it anymore but they often keep it. This could give another perspective to the ‘wounds’ Daz was referring to after Marineford as he was clearly not talking about Luffy’s physical wounds but about the emotional wounds that came with losing a loved one.

Crocodile could have had a wife but she betrayed him and he took the ring off as to break the relationship and connection. Then the choice to not wear a ring on that finger in the future could serve as a reminder to himself not to trust people, not even those close to you. This could possibly explain his huge trust issues.

However, these two scenarios, while possible, don’t strike me as the most likely simply due to the two following scenes:

“If you want to protect something, do it right!!” 

This could be totally random and only refer to the moment at hand but it could also indicate that he knows a thing or two about how to successfully protect someone. Which leads us to the infamous

“I know one of his weaknesses ...!! But if he cooperates with us ... then I won’t say anything about it!!”

Think about it, the biggest weakness ANY pirate of Crocodiles caliber could have is a loved one or people they care about and their identity and location to be known by the public or enemies (marines, pirates etc.) because no matter how powerful a pirate you are, if information like that was to spread and reach the wrong ears, this could have catastrophic consequences for you and the people you care about. It’s used over and over in OP stories like when the marines hunted down Gol D. Rogers offspring and slaughtered all newborn who could potentially have been Roger’s child or when the marines swore to kill Luffy for being Dragon’s son or when Zeff was used as leverage to force Sanji to comply. I doubt anyone knows Usopp is Yasopp’s son or that he had a woman and child in Syrup village otherwise someone would have probably attacked them to get back at Yasopp. Maybe that’s one of the reasons he left them. As to protect them.

Ivankov and Croc met years ago when Croc was still considered a rookie, so in his early/mid twenties. If there is indeed a ring to that finger and the person is still alive, Ivankov could know her identity or location and this could totally be the weakness Ivankov was refering to. Of course this only works if the person is still alive. 

Now I know, you’re probably scratching your head, thinking I might be a bit nuts going this direction considering it’s Crocodile we’re talking about but really, think about it. His choice of jewelry is mega weird so what could be the reaaon for it? Also it’s hardly the weirdest theory out there (looking at you femCroc theorists).

This would also tie in neatly with why he decided to have his Baroque agents working in teams of two with male/female. I mean, unlike other characters, he clearly doesn't seem to see women as the weaker sex and him having his agents work in pairs has to be grounded somewhere. Maybe he was raised like that and his parents where a good example of how well men and women complement each other or maybe he made the experience himself. If so, I tend to think that he wasn't betrayed by the woman... or maybe he was and that's one of the reasons why he was so paranoid and basically expected Robin to betray him. All possible, really.

It’s also apparent that Oda incorporates marriages a lot more often nowadays than he did in the early years of One Piece. Mr 9 and Mrs Mondey got married on a cover page and have a baby, Capone got married and his henchman Gotty married too, Sai and Baby 5 married, Sanji and Pudding were meant to marry and let’s not forget poor Senior Pink’s backstory. 

Last but not least, I’d like to point out a seemingly random fan question Oda answered in an SBS which seems just kinda odd once you consider everything I said above.

Now the question focuses on “they never had a child” and “I wonder what faces their children would have”, yet Oda starts with “They’ve been to weddings before ...” ... WOW. Really? Why would he say that? XD No one even asked about weddings. Funny. So they’ve been to weddings, huh? As what? Guests? Grooms? You know? It doesn’t seem to mean anything but if you consider Crocodile’s rings and such imo it’s just a weird thing to say. Then the mysterious “I wouldn’t say whether they had children or not ...” ..... 

Note: Especially during Alabasta Oda often forgets to draw Croc’s rings at all or accidentally leaves out the wrong finger but he is consistent with the rings since Impel Down. He still forgets them from time to time but he doesn’t switch the fingers anymore so one could reason that he had a vague idea of Crocodile’s reasons behind the rings when he introduced him but only solidified it or gave it more details once Croc showed back up. The anime and games however often just leave out the wrong ring probably thinking that it doesn’t matter.

[kazimakuwabara]

33.  Replace

Summary: A conversation between Shanks an Yasopp

***

Shanks finds him sitting by himself below deck. He would never have thought he’d have this conversation he’s about to have... but well... there’s a first time for everything.

Pulling a flask from his belt, Shanks sets it in front of Yasopp and sits across the glum man quietly. Silence is heavy below deck, the sounds of his crew echoing down to them below.

Eventually, Yasopp takes the flask, takes a swig, and then slowly, raises his sad eyes to his Captain.

Breathing through his teeth, Yasopp whispers, “I never thought it would happen...”

Shanks considers what he needs to say.

What should be said.

He’s not sure if he knows. A question does pop into his head, one he feels he shouldn’t need to ask, but still... “Yasopp... did you write home?”

“What?” Yasopp asks, not yet angry, but voice defensive.

Shanks runs a hand over his hair, “Your kid. Your wife. You talk about them all the time, like they’re the light of your world... but after...” Shanks doesn’t put into words what just happened.

He’s sure, with that welt on his face, Yasopp remembers the fact that his own son, who Yasopp was aware had even gone out to sea, just clocked him one, and then told him to fuck off.

“Look Yasopp... your kid was upset. That wasn't the happy reunion between a father and son I've always imagined. And you seemed pretty surprised to see him out here. Have you written to him at all since all this? Since coming with me?” Shanks asks, expecting Yasopp to get mad. To shout, that, of course, he'd written home, of course! To have some other explanation for... whatever the hell just happened a moment ago. Shanks is trying to understand, so if Yasopp gets mad, so be it.

What Shanks doesn’t expect, is the absolute silence coming from the other end of the table.

“...You didn’t write?” Shanks asks, baffled.

Yasopp takes a swig out of the flask.

With a swipe, Shanks knocks it from Yasopp’s mouth, and grabs him by his collar. He pulls until their foreheads collide and then barks, “Did you not write your fucking wife and kid? Did you send them money? Anything?”

“I... I always... I sent money. I didn’t always... remember to attach a letter. We were always on the move, we were busy...” Yasopp tries to deflect, avoiding his Captain’s furious gaze.

Shanks pushes him away in disgust, “Are you fucking kidding me?! Is that your sorry excuse!?”

Yasopp growls, and his anger pushed him to meet his Captain’s gaze.

Shank’s is happy to see a response.

“You had a fucking responsibility to your family!”

“You’re the one who asked me to come with you! She... she wanted me to go! To live my dream!”

“But I’m sure she expected you to write! You just... expected one day to return to your family, after years of silence, and thought you wouldn’t be replaced?”

Yasopp smashes a fist into the table, and closes his eyes. 

“I wasn’t replaced!” He shouts, but it feels like a lie.

After he’d been hit, he’d tried to follow Usopp, tried to ask what the hell that hit had been about. But he’d been stopped.

That man, that huge guy with the blue hair had stopped Yasopp. His glare and icy snarl still bounces around in Yasopp’s head even now.

“You think you’ve got the right to speak with him? After leaving him alone... with nothing? If the first words you want to say to your son isn’t a fucking apology, don’t bother going after him. If you’re not going to be a man about it, I’ll keep looking after him. He’s a great fuckin’ kid, and a great fuckin’ pirate, and an even better fuckin’ man... and you... you missed out!” 

The large man had then thrown Yasopp to the ground, and he is the one to follow after Usopp.

He is the one... to go console Yasopp's angry son.

And Yasopp did...

And Yasopp retreated below the deck of his ship... and hid.

Shanks’ angry, frustrated sigh brings Yasopp back to the present.

“Yasopp... there’s no fixing the past. If you did something stupid, go fucking make up for it! Luffy’s ship is still docked nearby where your boy is!” Shanks snarls, gesturing with his arm where Yasopp should be going.

“Don’t be a fucking coward and stay here! Face your boy. Accept his wrath, apologize, beg for forgiveness... and deal with the damage you’ve done,” Shanks says, his words firm and expectant. “Don’t you sit here like a coward... or do. But if you do the latter... you’ve lost that kid for good!”

Shanks and Yasopp hold each other’s gaze for a long time. 

Shanks eventually sighs with disappointment, shakes his head, and heads back upstairs.

Yasopp sits alone, deciding if he’s a coward or not.

[midnightluck]

home is where i grew my wings

this is old and messy but have another take on my favorite scenario~

~@~

There’s something familiar about the kid trailing after Luffy, Marco thinks, squinting at him. There’s something about the line of his jaw and the color of his eyes that Marco could swear he knows.

“Mister Pineapple!” Luffy calls, bouncing up to him. “Hello again!”

“Hello, Luffy,” Marco says, and smiles in the face of the rubber boy’s enthusiasm. “It’s good to see you again, yoi. Keeping busy?”

“Yeah!” Luffy says. “We’ve been lots of places! I made some new friends!”

“I see,” Marco says, and looks up to catch the other kid’s eyes. He’s grumpy, obviously, and stands with one hand on his sword hilt. To Marco’s Big Brother senses, it reads more like a security blanket than a threat, though. “Good to meet you,” he says. “Any friend of Luffy’s…”

“I’m not his friend,” Luffy’s new friend says, twitching. “We’re in an alliance.”

Marco can’t help but pity the poor guy. “They did tell you, right? That--”

“--it’s the same thing? I’ve been told,” the kid says, and Marco bites back on his smile and gives the kid full marks for both stubbornness and spite.

“Marco,” he says instead of any of that, and offers his hand.

“This is Traffy!” Luffy says, bouncing between them. “Traffy, meet Pineapple! He’s a mystery bird!”

“My name,” the kid says, glaring daggers at Luffy, “is Trafalgar, not--”

Marco loses the rest of the complaint in a rush of memory that deafens him, of a kid who’s sixfivethreeone, with endless curiosity and those same gold eyes, and the name, when it comes, tumbles from his lips like it’s been punched out of him. “Law?”

The kid jerks and looks up at him with narrow eyes and it’s so familiar; he does know that look, just not on that face. “Do I know you?”

“You--” Marco stops, swallows on that hurt, and makes a sound that’s almost a laugh. “You probably don’t remember me,” he says, dropping his hand and clenching it into a fist at his side. “You used to hide in my office, sometimes, at the hospital.”

And Law--little Lawsie, who’s tall now, all grown up--he goes entirely, utterly still. “The hospital,” he says. There’s discoloration on his skin, now that Marco’s looking closely, and fire in his eyes.

“I worked with the doctors Trafalgar,” he says, and what used to be a point of pride now cuts on the way out. “Pediatrics, two floors down. I kept textbooks on the bottom shelf for you and--”

“--and candy in your bottom drawer,” Law finishes blankly. “Lollipops.”

“Yeah,” Marco says, then swallows. “Yes, yoi. You only ate the blue ones.”

“You know him, Traffy?” Luffy says, grabbing onto one of Law’s arms. 

“Yeah,” Law says, but his eyes are still narrow and his jaw is still set. “Yes, I do. We’re...from the same place.”

“I thought you were from Flevance?” the curly haired one says. Marco can’t remember his name, but he’s Yasopp’s boy, isn’t he?

“Yeah,” Marco agrees and shoots him a quelling look. “We were.”

“But--” the kid says.

Law talks right over him, saying, “But there were no survivors.”

“I--” Marco has to stop to take a breath because this is still his biggest regret--or, well, one of them, these days. “I wasn’t there.”

Law growls. It’s not an accusation but it hits like one anyway.

“I already had my fruit by then, yoi.” He lights up one hand with blue. “Phoenix, you know? Burnt all the Amber Lead right out of me. But they wouldn’t let me go back in.”

“The quarantine,” Law says.

Marco nods and echoes, “The quarantine. I did try.”

Law’s fingers clench convulsively on his sword and he frowns deeper. “You didn’t--”

The blond guy, the cook, makes a noise and then leans in, interrupting the brewing fight. “Does that mean you have embarrassing baby stories about tall dark and grumpy here?”

Law growls again but it startles a laugh out of Marco. “Of course,” he says. “The whole hospital knew them; the troublesome Trafalgars. Always getting in the way and falling asleep in odd places, yoi. One time, they stole all the extra scrubs and made a little nest in the janitor closet--”

“It wasn’t my idea,” Law growls, the exact same way he had back then, so many years ago.

“You never could say no to little Lami, could you?” Marco asks, and then looks around. “Where is she, by the way?”

Law looks down and Marco waits for a second, then another, and then realizes that is his answer. “Oh,” he says, and it’s instinct, probably; it’s years of pediatrics and letting Law and Lami climb on his desk and pull at his hair and being a big brother. It’s all of that and none of it when he opens his arms to offer a hug. 

Law stares at him and doesn’t move.

Marco smiles, small and raw, and drops his arms. “I’m sorry, yoi,” he says instead.

“Who’s Lami?” Luffy asks, and Law’s hand tightens around his sword’s sheathe as he flinches. It’s small but noticeable

“We’ll handle this,” the blond guy says and hooks a hand in the back of Luffy’s shirt collar. “C’mon, Captain; Robin’s gonna tell you a story.”

“A story?” Luffy says, and Law sighs. His shoulders drop and he lets his sword fall to his side again.

Marco takes a tiny step forward. “You’re a doctor, aren’t you?” he asks. “You still practice, yoi.”

Law’s chin goes up and it’s the same gesture of defiance as his mother used to make. “I am,” he says. “A surgeon.”

“Of course,” Marco murmurs.

In the distance, a calm female voice says, “Once upon a time, there was a kingdom called Flevance…”

Marco has so many questions. How did Law get out? Where has he been all these years? How hasn’t he been chased down for surviving? How did he survive? Has he been okay? Is he happy?

“It was a beautiful kingdom,” Robin says from far away, “and a center for learning and medicine...”

He has so many questions, but that’s not what little Law needs right now, not with his chin up and his eyes blazing, and Marco makes himself smile and finds it doesn’t even hurt. “They’d be so proud of you,” he says.

“Everyone who lived there was happy,” Robin says, “for a time.”

Law closes his eyes, grabs tight to his sword, and sways in place. There’s no one left nearby but his voice is lower than a whisper when he says, “Thank you.”

“I miss them too, yoi.”

“Uwaa!” Luffy shouts, staggering them both out of it. “Sounds like a really cool place!”

And Marco can’t help the little bark of laughter because, “It was, yoi. It really, really was.”

“Did you go there too, Mister Pineapple?!”

Marco meets Luffy’s eyes over Law’s shoulder and shrugs. “It was home.”

[wesleysniperking]

usopp positivity post #8

Usopp’s father is a pirate!

Yasopp aka Chaser.

(I really like his most recent character design).

Despite Yasopp leaving, and whatever choice words I/we/you have about the guy. That doesn’t mean he isn’t bada**!

I always find it interesting how when we’re first introduced to Usopp (depending on the manga or anime) we soon after find out who his dad is. It’s like Luffy just drops it on us. I remember thinking, “Woah, woah! His dad was in that flashback when Luffy introduced Shanks”. Usopp had increasingly started to become my favorite character at that point.

For some reason I find it incredibly cool that Usopp already had a bit of credibility given that his dad was already a bonafide pirate. And now that we’ve seen Captain Usopp with a slingshot (in the first or second chapter of the Syrup Village arc), we immediately pick up on the fact that there’s certainly someone he gets his sniping prowess from. If not from Yasopp, then who else?

Yasopp definitely made Usopp a much more interesting character too. Not that Usopp can’t stand on his personality and character alone, but with Yasopp, we definitely know Usopp has more to offer. We can always expect that “something” in the future. We can rest assured with the fact that he’ll one day acquire advanced observation haki or future sight (which he already has 👀).

When the Red Hair Pirates are brought up, we don’t only think of Shanks (and even Luffy), but we think of Yasopp too. Because Yasopp also serves as that reminder letting us fans know and see how far Usopp’s come as a pirate and young man.

I even hope that one day Daddy Masterson (it’s always been disputed if he’s canon—it’s likely a no) can make a cameo in the anime or cover art in the future where it showcases him reacting to another major sniper feat from Usopp. It’d be nostalgic and rewarding to see. ☺️

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Usopp fan club (join if you want)

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[victorie552onepiecespeedrun]

Reading One Piece pt 276: Hancock/Luffy And Holy Shit, This is Intense

Chapter 523

Thoughts:

- “Volume 54: Impel Down!” I… I have no idea what’s happening on that cover. It’s a lot

- ohhhh, but that one is nice

- nice

- Fpos/cs: Guys, guys, it’s Spandam! He’s in intensive care unit! He looks like sh*t. That’s what you get for being a jerk, Spandam :D

- ohhh, Hancock has a cruuuuush :D

- no, seriously, she doesn’t know what’s happening

- Grandma will explain. Oh, I feel the bullsh*t coming

- “I agreed to go to the Central Zone without even thinking it over. But I don’t mind!” it’s because Luffy asked you to. You and Zoro would have a lot to talk about I think :D

- oh no, just look at that

- *sign* ok, let’s do this

- „By choosing to go with that man, you’ve saved your own life.” I’m offended by the concept here, you know, The “Woman Needs A Man” Thing but in the context it actually holds. Hancock really needed to go to Capital with Marines as Warlord to keep her people safe. But as we see, she would never do this without her “sudden love insanity” thing. In that aspect, Luffy, or more likely her Love for Luffy saved the day here. (And let’s be real, everyone in One Piece needs Freedom that Luffy represents) And Hancock’s crush on Luffy makes perfect sense! Luffy was really great for her and all over this arc! It was way too fast for Big Feelings to develop but. This is a shounen manga about FRIENDSHIP made by an old Japanese man and if ‘kinda fast’ and ‘why did a whole-ass adult woman fell for a teenager’ is all that’s wrong… we’re good here, guys (if that teenager was or looked like Zoro, NO ONE would complain and you know it).    

- as a ship, I think it holds too, at least for me, especially in the future when the age gap and life experience aren’t that much to think about (also she’s not coming onto him). He helped her! And she will help him! Mutual aid and respect! They’re both strong and silly! Pirate King and Empress! And, well, at this point it’s one-sided much and Luffy is more or less clueless when it comes to romantic relationships (aroace. He’s aroace in my eyes) but that doesn’t mean he can’t be happy with someone or that he can’t make someone happy, everything can work out in the world, especially a fictional one

- (One Piece is short at couples. All I can remember now is Yasopp/Usopp’s Mom [where she went and died when he was away], Usopp/Kaya [strongly implied but not ACTUALLY canon goddammit also they’re both 17 come on] and whatever Rayleigh and Shakky have going on [because COME ON]. Not a stellar record if you ask me but they make it work and even are happy)

- The point. I had a point

- oh right. What I’m saying is that Oda is absolutely using a cheap plot device to give Luffy a much needed help and allies AND girlfriend, BUT (and that’s the annoying part) he’s using said cheap plot device Masterfully and I’m both in Awe and mad about it. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk

- ok, in the chapter they are leaving the island. Damn, Luffy really charmed everyone

- Hancock is here. She just kicked a puppy and a baby seal to illustrate she’s still That B*tch, mushy feelings aside. I deeply disapprove but it’s a nice touch. Damn you Oda, damn you

- “Just call me Hancock.” “Okay, Hammock.” Godammit, Luffy

- bye, Amazon Lily! You were a nice place when you didn’t try to kill us!

- onto Marine Ship they go. (And they will stop at Impel Down!)

- all marines are un-stoned now :D (I think that made Badass Marine Captain really happy. It couldn’t be a nice two days for him, alone and not even knowing if his crew is gone for good or not)

- lol, Luffy is literary hiding under Hancock’s coat :D

- to Impel Down!

- At Navy Headquarters. Hey, Sengoku

- So he know Boa will cooperate. Six out of Seven Warlords will in fact. Who’s the odd one out?

- Jimbei?

- There are problems at Sabaody Archipelago (they mention labor camps and god, WG just keeps getting more awful, it’s like they don’t how to stop) but Sengoku doesn’t want to hear anything that isn’t about Whitebeard. I feel your pain, man

- (I like him, sue me)

- oh. Grandpa Garp went to Impel Down. Probably to talk to Ace… oww, that will be a hard conversation

- Whitebeard’s on the move! And destroying marines’ spying network!

- “Tell everyone to be ready for attack on Impel Down!” oh no

- everything is so INTENSE now

- Impel Down

- with Garp and Ace

- …that does not look good…

- oh for the LOVE OF… stop jumping places, manga!

- !!!! NAMI !!!!

- weather magic

- “This is a small Sky Island called Weatheria. We study the science of weather here” ohhhhhh!!! Power-up arcs begin!!!

- with Franky, he’s on some winter island

- “This is mechanical Island! It was created by a genius!”

- “Peachy Island – Island of Dreams” oh, I don’t like where this is going

- “This is the famous second Island of Women. All the plants and animals here are pink” huh. You know, I never had a pink phase when I was a kid, wonder why

- “And the people on this island… all have the hearts of maidens.” Cool. Why is that so ominous

- HOLY SHIT IT’S SANJI. God, what is happening to him

“Right now… I’m in hell.” From the look of it, accurate. Jesus, what is happening to that guy.

rOP 275 rOP 277

[deepmagician]

Chapter 41: To The Sea

This is a nice cover, featuring a good look at young Luffy, Shanks, and his Red Hair Pirates. Now that we finally found out the name of one of the crew members, being Yasopp there in the corner, let’s have a look at the other names that haven’t been told to us yet.

The big guy eating the meat, who shot one of Higuma’s men back in chapter 1, is Lucky Roux. I remember it being Lucky Roo, but apparently all official sources after the first translation go with Roux. Roux is an ingredient, and he certainly likes food, so that seems to check out. The man with the cigarette and rifle behind Luffy is Ben Beckman, who took out all the rest of Higuma’s men single-handedly in chapter 1. He’s Shank’s first mate.

And that’s it. None of the rest of them have been named. Hard luck, but also maybe they should’ve done anything and maybe they’d deserve it.

So Luffy seems to be recovering well from his injury, as he almost eats an entire fish skeleton. He’s just sucking plates into his mouth whole, I guess. Zoro implies that he could’ve eaten the skeleton better, and Nami reminds them that they’re crazy people. So all is well with Luffy and friends, but it’s about to be better.

Kaya shows up looking better than ever, now that her mean ol’ butler Klahadore isn’t abusing her trust any more. And she’s got a ship? Anything’s an upgrade from two small boats. Meanwhile, Usopp’s finished packing up his life, having moved literally everything that’s not furniture into his backpack.

Turns out this makes his bag comically large, and he breaks the front wall of his little house and rolls down a hill in the process of leaving.

Life is great, he says with double exclamation marks. Definitely no brain damage from the roll or being crushed here! Usopp’s as durable as Zoro and Luffy, turns out.

Ah, and here she is! Complete with thematic sheep figurehead. birds for scale, and Merry’s personal Jolly Roger on the mast, it’s the ship Kaya’s giving to Luffy: The Going Merry! 

...Oh? The Viz translation calls it the Merry Go? Nah, I’m ignoring that one like I did with the Nyabans. Going Merry is the name of the boat, and if you said Merry Go I and other One Piece fans would be pretty confused.

Merry says he thought Luffy would be taller as he explains some traits of the ship, which he designed himself. It’s true that heights tend to be pretty exaggerated in One Piece- Luffy’s 5′7″, and Shanks is 6′6″ and not even the tallest of his crew. Kuro was 6′9″!

The ship is a type called a Caravel, apparently a sort of faster, lighter sailing ship from the 15th century. It was favoured by merchants due to speed and manoeuvrability. Seeing as Luffy’s shown no desire for a huge crew like the Black Cats, this should be perfect for them.

Usopp rolls in for his comedy approach- does he stick the landing?

Perfectly! I love his long nose sticking out between their feet, it’s a good gag. Usopp promises Kaya that he’ll return one day with better stories than ever- and they’ll all be true.

Why? says Luffy? Why would Usopp act like they might cross paths one day? Because they’re going to be sharing a path- Usopp is of course going to join the crew!

This chapter came out May 25th 1998, almost 23 years ago. Of course people reading these recaps 100% knew Usopp would join the crew, along with any future member’s identity. Still, imagine what it would be like for people reading this as it originally came out, the excitement of a new crew member joinging the main cast. A joyous occasion.

As the Going Merry sails off into the horizon, the Children Formally Known As The Usopp Pirates watch and wonder what they’re gonna do now. As well, Kaya and Merry watch from their own cliff, and Kaya confesses that she did want Usopp to stay. Merry decides to tell her a story about Usopp in response.

Yes, every crew member has a tragic backstory. Usopp’s father left to be a pirate, and shortly after his mother died, so he had to take care of himself. As she lay sick in bed, young Usopp burst in, yelling that his father’s ship had returned to take them away once she was well again.

Usopp was desperately scrabbling for any hope, and as his mother weakened, his lies and wishes and dreams were where he found them. Yes, he shouted every day that a pirate ship was coming, but he secretly wished it would really happen, so that he could see his father again and have a family.

It’s legitimately a sad story, but it inspires Kaya to carry on Usopp’s strength of heart.

As the children take up Usopp’s mantle, Kaya declares that she’s going to become a doctor. Syrup Village is in good hands.

And with that, the arc is over. Kuro is defeated, Usopp has joined Luffy’s crew, and they finally have a proper ship. There’s still so much ahead for us, though- let’s see where we’re going!

[genogenocrazycatman]

Heed the Siren's Call

Rumours on the tide say he's got a girl in every port, but sea-sayings tend to exaggerate. There was only ever one port—and the one girl.

Pre-series. Bookish and wilful, Makino is not even twenty when her legal guardian leaves her on her own, and with a bar to boot. And it figures he'd choose the greatest personal upheaval in her life to make his entrance. After all, he's that kind of guy.

Sailor's Folly

There's a sea, and a port, and a girl. And there's him, who wasn't prepared for either, especially the last one—that wide-open heart and gentle stubbornness pulling him in, soft as a siren's song and just as compelling. And he doesn't know if it's fate's doing, but even if it isn't, Shanks knows his own is sealed the moment she looks at him, lovely frown in place, and tells him to order his drink or get out of her doorway.

Companion fic to Siren's Call, wherein a cheerful scoundrel sweeps a village barmaid off her feet. Or was it the other way around?

Sea Songs

The world has its long-awaited King, but there’s an island where an Emperor still reigns; a sovereignty of retired pirates that answer to no one else, and a peace left undisturbed—at least if you know what's good for you. There's a bar there, the seat of an Empress of gentle things, of homely comforts and good liquor, no crown on her head but her authority an undisputed fact.

Sequel to Siren's Call. It’s the end of a voyage, but not the end of their story—not by a long shot. There are many verses still left to sing, sweet and bitter, of the love that endured a long decade and then some; of the marriage that came of it, and the partnership that didn’t flinch at war and separation and distance. And lastly, of the new life it made, conceived in the sun-warmed surf at the junction between two worlds that had once been separate.

Penelope

She’d waited ten years for him to come back, like he’d promised. And it hadn’t been without its hurdles, or with her heart free of doubts. Ten years is, after all, a long time. But...some things are worth the wait.

Companion to Sea Songs. There's been waiting, and ten years of it. Now there's peace, and long-earned at that; the culmination of a crew-wide betting pool, and a wedding at sunset, flowers in her hair and across the deck of his ship. And there's drinking, and a lot of it, but of course that's no surprise to anyone. Their Captain is getting married—it only figures they’d throw one hell of a party to celebrate.

Charybdis

Being an Emperor’s wife didn’t come without risks, but she hadn’t been prepared for what the sea would ask of her for choosing him, and the ways it would touch her quiet life, in her peaceful corner of the sea. Her little port, which had never been anything but safe.

Sea Songs AU. Fuschia is gone, and the man she loves thinks she’s dead. The sea is dark and vast and terrible, and has no more kindness to spare her than those seeking to use her for their own gain; a pawn in a game she never asked to play, and one they didn’t think she would.

Makino doesn’t blame them. She is, after all, just a girl in a port. But like the sea, appearances deceive, and every sailor knows this truth, and to fear it: that however still and beautiful the surface, the unknown depths should never be taken lightly.

Scylla

They say she's as terrifying as her husband, Red-Haired Shanks' wife (she's a sea witch, a siren; she took his arm as payment, as punishment, for kicks), but for all the names they gave her, and all the rumours to them, they did get one thing right.

She's a pirate.

Married the Sea 

Not all couples spend their 10-year wedding anniversary behind bars for indecent exposure.

Companion fic to Scylla, depicting the marriage of a certain illustrious pirate and the woman who stole his heart (figuratively speaking—at least unless you believe the rumours).

Tethered to Kinder Shores

She’s part of the crew, always has been. A pirate on land, no sea legs to speak of and no bounty to her name, and no crime committed except loving them for who they are.

Makino and the Red-Hair Pirates. Oh—and their Captain, of course.

Whose Heart is a Safe Harbour

She's more than a port of call and a parting glass, and even the sea couldn't hope to compete with all that love.

Makino, and twelve very different birthdays.

Some Things Even Whiskey Won't Fix

It's a humble request, and a promise that will bind all three of them beyond death:

"Tell him I said 'hello'."

Love In Good Liquor 

Their marriage is like an old vintage—enduring, sweet on the tongue, brewed with laughter, and liable to get you cheerfully drunk.

A Scallywag's Checklist for a Rousing Seduction

An honest and hard-working tavern owner's impeccable work ethic is put to the test.

The Wilfulness of Water

Navigating the many straits of parenthood isn't always easy, especially when your kids become old enough to chart their own course. And it's never smooth sailing when it comes to matters of the heart.

“Not to be dramatic,” Shanks announced, with a sigh that contradicted the whole statement, even before he’d added, “but this is probably what kills me.”

Rivers Running to the Same Sea

It's a different port, and a different bar; a different sea altogether, and different circumstances for their first meeting.

But it's the same girl, and the same pirate. And it'll be their story, in the end.

Mnemosyne

She doesn’t remember her life before the human market, or before Amazon Lily. The only clues she has is her name, and the silver anchor around her neck.

And that her daughter has red hair.

Andromeda Unbound

She's never set foot off the docks.

It's a truth she's shaped her life around. Often she'll say it with a chuckle, to soften the ruthless fact of her sheltered upbringing. Sometimes it's an excuse, so she won't have to deal with what it might mean to change it. Many times she's wondered if she would ever dare, and more times still she's imagined herself doing it, bold, brave, pirate. But most often, it's said with the knowledge that it will remain that way; that there's no reason to challenge it.

Her husband's execution changes things.

Bind Me to the Tide

She was thirteen the day it happened, old enough to know what a soul-bond was, but not to fully understand what it meant, to bind two souls so thoroughly as the Fates were said to do. Every new thread they measured was tied to another; a knot that ensured their paths would cross, somewhere along the line of their lives. It was the stuff of romances. Or it would have been, if it hadn’t been for an unfortunate side-effect.

For as long as Makino could remember, she’d been feeling the pain of another as her own.

Verses Not Fit for Singing in Public

It started, innocently enough, with a comment.

“Hey, how did you lose your v-card, Yasopp?”

[emperor-of-blood]

Usopp, the marksman of the pirates. His story starts of in a normal village. His grandfather didn't throw him to the wolves to toughen him up and he wasnt a biologically engineered super soldier gone wrong. Usopp was the son of a pirate, though he never knew his father as Yasopp left for the seas when Ussop was still a young child. He spent his childhood doing normal kid things. He did meet a girl named Kaya who he began telling stories to. As he didnt really have any exciting stories to tell he just made stuff up. He spun his tales of legend, usually with him as the main character, even when he was getting chased out of her home by her guards. He also took up the habit of lying to the other villagers, who appreciated it much less. Eventually one of Kayas servants plotted to kill her and take over the fortune left to her by her parents. Usopp found out about this and tried to warn the villagers who didnt believe him, in a sort of "Boy who cried wolf" fashion. Then the Straw hat pirates show up, help him and Kaya out, and recruit Usopp. The crew sails out on a ship commissioned by Kaya for them.

Throughout the adventure, Usopp is regularly thrown into situations well over his head. One of his first big fights is against a fish person who can shoot water like canonballs from his mouth and superhuman strength to boot. But he's still just a normal guy with a slingshot. And yet, he still wins. It's the theme of most of his fights, he's always the underdog. As his journey continues he learns as he goes. He invents new ways to fight, helping Nami by making her her own weapon. He upgrades his own and is pretty much always doing something. Though his body might be that of a normal person, his willpower stands alongside the rest of the Strawhats. He's taken some serious beating and still stood back up, knowing that he's powerless to stop his enemies from beating him back down. The fight against Mr. 4 and Mrs. Merry Christmas is a really good example. He's also the only Strawhat to quit the crew by standing up to the captain for his own beliefs (Don't @ me about Sanji, it's different). He's probably the strawhat character that, despite specifically being a funnyman character, is the one played the most straight. That is to say, he's the most seriously written crew member. Ussop isn't there just to be another gag, he's an actual character written with a purpose in mind regarding the story.

Now, that all being said, Usopp is a...

Page of Mind

One who creates [Mind]/provides others with [Mind]

The specifics of the Mind aspect are still shrouded in mystery but I think I have a decent grasp of what it entails. The first thing I’d like to mention is how the aspect in question starts off absent in the Page. Just as Jake was hopeless, Usopp began his journey mindless. Not to say that he was a zombie wandering aimlessly or that he never thought about anything (Though both of those would make a pretty strong case for Page of Mind). Usopp spent most of his time just, doing whatever. Pranking the townsfolk and lying to Kaya without regard to any consequences, are the initial signs of his Mindlessness. When we look at a more normal Mind player we can see how completely opposite that really is. Terezi thought about everything to an abnormal degree. Most obvious in her crime games but also apparent in many of the choices she made throughout the story. Chasing after his father’s dreams without much of a second thought is another perfect example. Not that Usopp couldn’t want to be a pirate, but he just wanted to do it because he thought his dad was cool. 

But as the Page realizes themselves and their journey continues they become much more of a ‘normal’ player. Usopp quickly learns that he needs to change. He’s outmatched in every field and has to win by having one hell of a plan. Most of his victories can be partially attributed to his enemies underestimating him, allowing Usopp to get off lucky hits. He starts showing up to fights with more than just his dinky little slingshot. He adds weapons and tools to his kit and refines them even more. Eventually, he’s even able to stand up to Luffy. The guy who’s been out monster-ing the monsters Ussop has been struggling to defeat the whole journey. He doesn’t win, but it’s a hell of a fight. It’s probably the most character development we see in all of One Piece honestly. His actions start really making waves. In the Dressrosa arc Ussop ends up screaming in someone’s face earning the title “God Usopp” and getting a bounty 200,000,000 million more that Luffy’s. He’s no longer someone you can ignore.

As for the creating [Mind] And providing others with it, you don’t have to look very hard. He outfits Nami with her personal weapon of his own design, allowing her to actually get up off the sidelines. Being another normal person just like Usopp, she’s also got to use her head to win her fights but now she can. His actions also light a fire underneath Kaya, pushing her to become a doctor as quick as she can. The final example of this category is Merry Herself. The ship ends up gaining sentience, in no small part to Usopp's love and care. The rest of the crew is a part of it obviously but it’s not a stretch of the imagination to say Usopp had the biggest role.

In the Strawhat session, Usopp is definitely one of the more vulnerable members. He’s not exactly the most capable, as is typical of early Pages. I wouldn’t count him out though. I feel like his strength would be in figuring out some sick alchemy business. Never underestimate someone who can actually make stuff outside of alchemy. Combining the two leads to a sure path to making some real broken stuff. Ussop’s personal quest would likely involve something similar to the revelation he has in the Boin Archipelago (Timeskip island) where he realizes not being able to do stuff isn’t an excuse for not doing things. There’s always time to learn. Old dogs can learn new tricks, and sometimes, they need to.

[missmungoe]

Are you implying that Shanks took a nice picture of himself and sent it to the marines so that it could be his bounty picture?!

(credit to the lovely @winterwitchery for supplementing this idea by suggesting they had a navy photographer, er, “assist” them)

“I just don’t feel like this angle does me justice.”

The sighing remark was accompanied by raking his fingers through his hair, before he stopped, an idea having struck, and, “Does my hair look better this way?” Shanks asked. “I’m going for ‘roguishly unkempt’, like I’ve just woken up and I’m a bit bashful for looking so good, but I also can’t help it? Do you see where I’m going with this?”

The navy photographer holding the camera shot him an imploring glance, before nervously side-eyeing the pirates around him. Even the Den Den Mushi in his hands looked like it would rather be elsewhere. “Look, I just want to go ho―”

“I think you should go for a profile shot,” Yasopp said, clapping a hand on the lad’s shoulder, making him jump, and nearly fumble his camera in the process.

“But that would only feature half of my face!” Shanks pointed out with a pout, and a furious gesture at the face in question.

“Then do a full headshot, from the neck and up. Eye-level, no fuss.”

“No fuss?” Shanks asked, visibly offended, before whispering, “Do you know me at all?”

“A low angle?” Ben suggested, smiling around his cigarette at the look his captain shot him.

“Wash your mouth, you mutinous heathen. No one looks good from a low angle.”

“Here I’d think you’d just take that as a challenge, Boss,” Yasopp chirped. Shanks just pointed a finger at him.

Then, “What do you think?” Shanks asked the photographer, who seized up when all the faces in his crew turned to look at him. For a brief moment, he regretted not having taken over the family farm like his mother had wanted.

“I think I’m not being paid enough for this,” he muttered.

“No one is keeping you,” Shanks said breezily. He wore his most innocent expression; the one that usually got his wife to cave whenever he pushed the limits of her endless patience. “You’re free to leave whenever, if you feel like you’re proud of the work you’ve done today. Can you look at these photos and say ‘this is a reflection of my true skill’?”

The photographer stared at him, then at the crew around them, observing with grins that usually sent most rookies running in the opposite direction. Shanks had to hand it to the lad: he’d lasted much longer than the last guy who’d shown up asking to take his photograph, whose patience had run out after his third request for a re-shoot.

Then, and with a fearlessness that ought to at least warrant a pay raise, “Fine,” he said fiercely, lifting the camera, before announcing to his crew, “We’re doing some more headshots. Someone crank up the wind machine!”

Shanks beamed. “That’s the spirit! Oh, and try not to make it look like a mugshot? I’m a pirate, not some common delinquent.”

“This is for your wanted poster, Boss,” Yasopp pointed out.

“Exactly, and I want it to look like I’m wanted for being so criminally good-looking. Did you see Kaidou’s latest? He just looks tired and angry. Then again, that’s like the full range of emotion that guy has, so maybe it’s spot on.”

“Focus!” snapped the photographer, and Shanks snapped to attention.

“Jeez,” he muttered, even as he straightened. “You’ve got moxie, I’ll give you that. Hey, wanna join my crew? Also, is this sufficiently rakish or should I amp up the heat a bit? I was once described as ‘sex on two legs’, and I’d really like that to transfer. If they’re going to be slapping this one a noticeboard in New Marineford, I’d like to make everyone attending that meeting uncomfortably turned on. Which reminds me―how are my lips? I want them to be pouty but not too pouty.”

“A bit more pout. And keep your chin level, but look down. Like that, but a little more to the side. Like you’re thinking about something.”

“Anything in particular?”

“I don’t know, what’s on your mind most often these days?”

It was a feat keeping his mouth from stretching in a smile, but the shift in his eyes didn’t go unnoticed.

“Might want to tone down the bedroom eyes, Boss,” Yasopp remarked with a grin, followed by a wolf whistle from someone in the crowd. The photographer glanced up, visibly confused. “Unless you really want to make those meetings uncomfortable. Garp attends those, I hope you remember.”

Flipping him off, Shanks kept his gaze lowered, angled slightly to the left. “I want them to wonder ‘how does his hair look so dastardly good?’ Speaking of―Yasopp?”

“I don’t think I’m being paid enough for this,” Yasopp sighed, but still complied, flipping the switch on the wind machine. Two of the others moved in to keep his cloak from flapping in his face. A third sprinkled water on his chest.

Ben considered the spectacle, then said to the photographer, “You can still make a run for it. Saying you narrowly escaped with your life wouldn’t be far from the truth.”

Shanks ignored him. “Should I lose the shirt? My pecs are responsible for adding a whole zero to my bounty. Would be a shame to leave them out.”

The photographer looked up from behind his camera. “I thought that was just a rumour.”

Brows raised, Shanks just gestured to his chest, as though to say rumour? please.

Ben shook his head, although didn’t deny the claim.

“I know someone who’d love a photograph of you with your shirt off, Boss,” Yasopp said then, grinning. “And isn’t your anniversary coming up?”

His whole face alighted at the mention, shattering the pensive expression he’d been maintaining, and his grin so wide it almost made the photographer take a step back.

“Hey, before we finish up, I just have one last request.”

.

.

The envelope arrived on her doorstep first thing in the morning, unmarked and with no return address.

Perplexed but admittedly curious, she pulled the straps off the heavy manila folder, withdrawing the contents, a series of glossy photographs, which had her brows lifting, before she turned them over, her eyes drawn first to the rumpled sheets of a familiar bunk, then an even more familiar trail of dark hair, before she promptly choked on her tongue, causing every patron in her bar to look towards her.

“What’s that you’ve got there, Makino?” asked one curiously, as she scrambled to keep the raunchy photographs from scattering across the floor.

“N-nothing!”