The sound of a newspaper page turning.

"Ex-Marine Silver Blood (Y/N) Leaves Marine Forces in Disarray!"

Another turn of the page, accompanied with sounds of waves hitting the boat. A seagull cawing overhead, enjoying the clear blue sky.

"Grand Line Being Turned Upside Down in Manhunt for the Dangerous Traitor!"

Page turn.

"Ex-Marine Silver Blood Holds Confidential Information and Must Be Found Immediately Lest Innocents Will Suffer!"

Turn.

"Confusion Abound As No Trace of Pirate Offspring Traitor Being Found After Being Spotted in Grand Line Island Famous For It's Towering and Thick Palm Trees—Gaising."

You let out a puff of air out your mouth.

"They're really hammering in the traitor part," you sigh, throwing the newspaper behind you as you laid on the floor of your boat. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised. I am one..." You sighed again before focusing your gaze onto the sky above. Eyes lazily following some stray clouds. The sun making your swords leaning on the mast glint.

It seems they are mostly pushing that you are a risk due to the information you hold from being a Cipher Pol agent. The newspaper didn't speak of it so that means the World Government doesn't want anybody to know. And since you weren't even from Guanhao like the other agents in the first place and were the first being an outsider, it would look bad. You don't recall when you first accepted into being an agent any news outlets speaking of it, so perhaps even then the World Government kept tight wraps on it. So no one in the marines outwardly spoke of it either.

The only conclusion you have is that they are pushing you are a simple ex-marine that happens to be a pirate kid and that "knows" dangerous information.

Well. Perhaps not simple. They are calling you a "dangerous traitor".

Honestly, you can't tell if they genuinely think you'll spill some information or they just want to make sure others capture you. If it's the former, they're stupid. If it's the latter, you can understand.

Still, your distant (e/c) eyes turn towards a seagull circling overhead, frowning in thought. This isn't the best for me. I'm lucky they have no idea I'm in the East Blue. It also helps in general little to no Vice Admirals patrol in this sea.

Your brows furrowed deeply.

You need to get stronger.

You really need a teacher.

You're hoping that perhaps Shanks can show you a few things or maybe someone else in the crew like Building Snake. Even though he uses two sword style and their swords are vastly different...

"GAH! It doesn't even matter if I can't find him...!" You complain, stomping and hitting the floor below out of frustration.

It's been two weeks of nothing. No sign of Shanks each island you stop at to get some supplies or to just check.

Your injuries from Karé have been completely healed by now. You're not even wearing a bandage anymore on your left cheek either. Scar still looking fresh but healed from the corner of your left eye to a little below the left corner of your lips. Jagged and the skin darker in some places but you don't care frankly about how it looks.

It's supposed to be a promise.

You touched the scar half heartedly in thought, fingers grazing. You shook yourself, cursing under your breath and hand lifting from your cheek.

You have other stuff to think about than focusing on how you left or how the others are.

Like Shanks for example.

Yup! Focusing on that!

It wasn't like you weren't giving your all either. When you weren't stopping islands for trade with the spices from Karé or getting supplies, you would keep doing your training regime in or off your boat. Whether it was going through your sword katas or going through Rokushiki techniques, including Seimei Kikan. You're hoping to achieve something with that technique that Kumadori showed you all those years ago when you were first accepted into the group.

At the sense of nostalgia, you released a large huff out your nose.

Not focusing! You complained, brows deep. Focus!

Due to how busy you've been keeping yourself, you've been able to knock out at the end of the day easily. You haven't had a nightmare in...since Shanks saved you.

You haven't determined if it's from pushing your body to the point of exhaustion or it's because you're finally free to do what you want.

Either way, you hope it remains.

As hours passed however, and you looking at useless maps splayed across all over the floor of the boat, you've determined that perhaps you should stop by at an island you spotted with your spyglass. You saw other islands around it clustered together so you believe they're the Organ Islands. So no marine base.

Still, you donned the cloak you got from Loguetown and put the hood on. The length of the hood completely covering the top half of your face. You put your swords on your back and hip respectively and docked at a beach of the island. After checking it over and determining it won't go anywhere, you decided to have a walk around this calming and lush island. It's dark and the inner part of the island is most likely closed. Not even the moon is out to light the way. You were just walking aimlessly.

Besides, you stopped more to think than for supplies.

A lot has happened. Your combat boots stepped silently along the grass, a skill second nature to you now. You hardly recall your old self moving how you wanted, uncaring of noise and sound, of how loud you were. Well, I don't have to care anymore either. I don't have to hold my tongue ever again. Still. You walked and there was no sound.

You don't know why you're focusing on this. You just have to focus on Shanks. You don't want to think too much about anything. Because if you think then...then...

"...hah..." your lips lift pensively. "I'm...a little lost, aren't I...?"

From killing a whole island to not. To be saved and treated with kindness from a pirate—a pirate that is a Yonko candidate due to his recent actions. To becoming self aware you'll do what you must. To having a new opportunity laid in front of you. To finally being back in Marine HQ for the first time in years and spotting Kuzan-San. To feeling like yourself again and not worrying about keeping your mouth shut or orders. To hearing Smoker's voice...to saying an impromptu goodbye and then to punching that purple snot's jaw out to a vow on your skin. Meeting others, an old woman who's suffered with a granddaughter and a rabbit but willing to help. Of an island suffering from marines and you wondering once more about the person you are and who you want to be. To having your first taste of one's power once under a Yonko and how weak you still are.

To your mom. To Raoul.

To wondering how many people exactly feel like home or felt like it and how much you've messed up.

Despite everything...you don't feel like yourself yet. You're trying. But you feel like you're missing the mark. You wonder once more, just how much you've changed. What did Raoul see when he looked at you? What did he find?

What would Smoker see? You wonder about his reaction of reading that first newspaper. Did he feel at least a little thankful you gave him a heads up? What would Old Man Garp?

You bit your inner cheek, keeping your head down, eyes shadowed completely.

A muffled sniffle made your ears perk and head shoot up.

Where did that come from?

You strained your ears, your eyes doing the best they could despite the all encompassing darkness as you squinted. Your hand lifting the hood up so you can actually try to look around and not be blocked by cloth.

A mournful cry entangled with a sob was heard to your left within the woods.

You carefully followed the sound until you spotted a clearing, what looked like a boy sitting on the edge of a cliff. Trying and trying to no avail to stop his tears and snot and sobs. You remained hidden behind a tree, wondering what's best to do.

You can't exactly leave. He's by a cliff. Where's his parents?

You pressed your lips together only for your brows to furrow as the boy released another cry, this time calling his mother.

That's it. I'll just help him find his mom and I'll head on out.

You stepped from behind the tree, having a hand up in a wave and purposefully making sound.

"Hey—"

"GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

The boy practically jumped out of his skin, standing up and holding...something in his hands. You can't quite see. The hood is in your face and it's so dark!

Whatever it is, it can't be dangerous.

"I-It's a gh-ghost! De-Death! S-stay away! I—I know pirates! The-They're coming!"

What you didn't take into account, is that you are wearing a dark hood and cloak completely covering your face, having your huge sword behind you and it's night time. Within the woods. And walked up behind an already crying frightened boy.

I'm really not good with crying kids, you sweatdropped.

You splayed your hands out in front of you, trying to appear defenseless.

"Hey, relax. I'm not any of that. I just wanted to—"

"You're lying!" The kid interrupted, voice in a squeak and sounding he's about to cry again yet his words held force. "Y-You...you t-took my mom away fr-from m-m-me!"

Your eyes widened behind your hood, mouth loosening. The kid went on.

"Y-y-you took her...! You...I...Dad was...was supposed t-to be h-here b-before th-that happened! Because he's...he's a brave warrior of the sea! He—he'll beat you up! J-just watch! He's coming and—and—he'll get you!"

You stood there, arms long gone down to your sides, silent. You sat down on the grass, crossing your legs to the boy's confusion.

"W-wha—Hey! D-didn't you h-hear me! I know pirates! They'll come! And—and they'll get you!"

You hummed distantly, eyes closed.

"I heard. I thought I was Death? Can pirates kill Death?"

The kid seemed to falter, stuttering and stammering on nothing before you heard a pulling sound with rubber and a snap. You twitched as a pebble met your hooded forehead, dropping to the grass.

"I-I gotchu! If—If I can d-do s-so-something as e-ea-easy as that, than my dad can do s-something worse!"

You remained silent for a few moments. You not seeming to take into account that this only rose the boy's fear higher and higher. You can practically hear his muscles twitching and his knees bumping together from how much he's shaking. Still. You stayed silent.

"What happened to your mom?"

The boy flinched from the sudden sound. It seems everything you do makes him age ten years. A small part of you finds it funny but you're too focused on your concern for him.

"W-Wha—?! W-Wh-why are y-you asking?! You took her!"

"I didn't. But what did?"

You heard a stomp against the ground.

"DON'T LIE!" He wailed so loudly, so brokenly, it made your heart pang out of empathy. When you stayed silent, you heard movement and it seems he went back to sitting down and overlooking the cliffs edge. "...she's gone. No matter what I did...I-I...I tried to te-tell her dad was coming. To make her stay...j-just a l-little while longer. It was working...! But then...then..." he sniffed, stopping and broke down crying again.

"Then it didn't." You say, steady.

"No," he answered, all warbled and between sniffs. "It...it didn't."

You hummed, tapping against your knee. Kuroi ten'nosabaki behind you with its large hunk of metal, gleaming almost mournfully. Karasu stayed silent.

"Sometimes, no matter what you do, nothing you say or do will work. Take it from me." You moved your gaze up, hood being pulled back slightly from the movement and you could actually see the dark sky above. "But...you can try to do what your loved one wished or loved. From before."

The boy, even now you can't see so you're just going to stay looking at the sky, turned his head slightly towards your direction.

"Loved?"

"Ah. To remember. Something that each time you'll do or say it, you can remember it was from them. For them. I...really like this one song personally."

Silence washed over them once more. A breeze passed by, moving your cloak and some wisps of hair in front of your face. Still, you kept your gaze up.

"I..." the boy's voice was so thin and quiet, you didn't realize he started speaking until he spoke a little louder. "She...s-she always liked stories. She...loved them. It made me...want to say some of my o-own...when s-she was...when she was—" His voice broke, him trying to take a steadying breath and failing. You let him take his time. "...I told her stories...some people in t-town thought t-they were just li-lies but...b-but...she was smiling when I did it. It was...t-the only t-ti-time she would."

"...Hmph," your lips lifted into a thin thing. "Then tell stories. And remember."

"I—I...y-yeah!" A strong sniffle to hide snot before he said more strongly. "Yes! W-wait, what are y-you doing?"

You now stood, fixing yourself by brushing off some nonexistent dust, eyes still shadowed from your hood.

"I'm going. I just stopped to check on you. I wasn't really doing much before either but...I don't know. Us meeting here..." You chuckle. "It's a little funny."

It's like fate.

"Anyways...see ya, kid." You turned towards back the woods before pausing. "Hey." The boy blinked wide eyes behind you. "...do you love your dad?"

"W-what?! W-why wouldn't I?! He's a brave warrior of the sea! I-I want to be like him someday! But w-why...are you asking?"

You shrugged noncommittally.

"No reason. Besides, I'm sure you can do it." You turned your head towards him over your shoulder, showcasing a grin so sharp it may as well have been a smirk. The boy thought he would faint and felt awe all at once at that. "You were able to handle Death after all."

"W-WHA—?!"

And you used Kamisori back to your boat, you couldn't help but snort at how high the boy's voice went.

Maybe it was a little mean, but maybe he can use this as one of his stories. And it'll give him some character. The kid needs some scary experience to help him out with his dream. And you don't mind helping out.

Or perhaps you just traumatized him.

You pause, hand on chin as you stood in the sand in front of your boat.

...

"Eh." You shrug, going into your boat and prepping to sail to whatever other island you'll see. Your buster sword holding a sweatdrop along with Karasu. "He'll be fine."

Besides, it was an interesting conversation. It was like looking in a mirror. Strange how similar the two of you sounded from what little you can get from that child. But hey...I think he helped me out find my answer.

You release your boat and get back into the sea, lowering your hood as your gaze went upwards.

I'll just keep going like this. And try to remember. Before when I felt like Death.

Too bad you never got the kid's name to tell him thanks. You didn't even get a good look at him.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

A boy with an olive green bandana and a long nose lied and lied and lied for years.

At first it was to remember, but than, a young beautiful girl also fell sick and started smiling for his lies. Just like his mother.

And it was like he didn't have to force himself anymore. It just came and he let it, and the girl would laugh and smile and giggle. It was everything.

Still, he wished everyone would at least believe he met the grim reaper. That was actually true!

Hopefully they stay away. Forever.

(And yet, he wanted to see them again. Because it sounded like they understood.)

Unbeknownst to you and the boy, you will meet again. Only in different circumstances and as different people than who they first met.

For such is Fate.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Island Located in the Grand Line and Holding Marine Headquarters—Marineford: Four Weeks Since Silver Blood Defection

"Hey, hey! Has there been any updates yet?"

"About that traitor? No. The Fleet Admiral hasn't said anything more about it."

"I still can't believe this is happening..."

"Why? She's always been a pirate spawn. That was no secret. It's in the blood I tell you!"

"I don't know...so, did the news release just who's her parent?"

"No. That's not something we want to say yet. Publicly anyways. I heard the idiot bitch just said it all proudly right in the middle of a Shichibukai meeting!"

"What?! No!"

"Yes!" The marine exclaimed, offended. "I swear, if they just let me in on capturing her too I'll—"

"Be quiet!" A passerby soldier hissed. The other two shrinking back as the soldier leaned forward with narrowed eyes. "Do you want someone like Vice Admiral Garp or Vice Admiral Kuzan to hear you?"

One scoffed.

"What does it matter? They're clearly the minority. They should've known better than to get close to someone like that."

"You fool." The marine insulted quietly, grabbing the others collar as their eyes widened. "Keep quiet about such things. Garp the Hero has had a short fuse ever since the news has been released. He hears you say such things, you'll first be demolished into a coma and wake up with a demotion. If you're lucky."

"Th-Then?" The one being held up choked.

"It's best to just...just stay quiet isn't it?" The other, more meek and quiet, suggested. "He practically raised the girl. And the others too...I hear even Vice Admiral Borsalino had his moments with her."

"Tch," the marine that held the other dropped them down, frown heavy in their face although their hood hid the rest of his expression. The marine that was released landed with an "Oof!", eyes wide as he stared up at his superior, feeling heated pressure in the air. "They're all fools for being fooled. They should've expected it...they're all the same after all."

All pirates should be eliminated from this world.

"W-Wait," the marine on the floor, holding his neck stuttered. "So y-you agree with us? I thought you were making sure we kept quiet because you were on their side—"

The hooded marine turned his back towards the marines, face severe underneath the hood and cap that held the words "MARINE". "Leave to your duties. That's an order." Eyes flashed beneath the cap and hood as he turned his head over his shoulder. The two marines jumped with fear at the cold look. "And don't suggest a thing towards me or towards anyone again. Or else you'll have to worry about what I would do to you instead of Vice Admiral Garp."

The two scrambled up, hands in a salute although shaking. Practically yelling with their chests even though the hooded marine walked off ahead of them. The heat seeming to follow him.

"Y-Yes, Vice Admiral Sakazuki!"

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Nothing.

Absolutely positively mind boggling and mind numbingly nothing.

You want to tear your hair out and scream. You're sick of thinking and trying to ignore said thinking or memories but you feel like just charging into the Calm Belt again and just hope a Sea King throws you into the island Shanks is in.

You're going crazy.

Or maybe it's because you need fresh water and should probably stop.

But! It's definitely because of searching everywhere only to find nothing!

...perhaps fresh water is the best way to go.

Thankfully, you spotted an island already and are heading in that direction. The sun high and heat radiating down on you, only a few clouds up in the sky with a stray breeze flowing at times. As you prep your boat to dock, you go over the supplies you need in your head.

Water is needed. Some extra wood will help, you note, tightening your rope and stepping off the boat into land and aimlessly started walking in a direction. My boat has done alright so far but extra wood on hand can help. You went through the jungle, picking up some stray coconuts and placing it in your knapsack before moving on. Moving foliage as you went. Perhaps I can add some coconuts as well as an extra resource for food and water too...to...?

You blinked as you walked out into a clearing, meeting blinking eyes on barrels and rocks around the shore of the island.

You blinked twice.

Blinking eyes belonging to various familiar faces, some frozen from moving supplies onto the shore. A Jolly Roger with three scars across its left eye flying in the air.

Your jaw dropped to the floor, eyes bogging out your head as others did the same.

"Guys?!"

"(Y/N)?!"

"You're here!" You cheer, dropping your knapsack to get closer just as the others did the same, starting to crowd around you. "Do you know how long I've been scouring the East Blue?"

Monster the monkey moved from Bonk Punch's shoulders to jump onto you. You catching him with a laugh as he sat on your shoulders and started to groom you. He was careful with you before when you were still healing with them, but now he doesn't have a care in the world. You didn't mind it.

You were used to another animal doing the same—albiet with pecks.

"To be fair," Yasopp said with a grin, "you never told us exactly what you were going to do. Just wanted us to drop you off back with the marines like nothing happened. How were we supposed to know you were trying to find us after the stunt you did?"

Lucky Roo nodded, tearing off a piece of meat as he spoke between chews.

"You took all of us by surprise! A lot of people are after you now from what we've read."

You paused from petting Monster, a sheepish smile playing on your lips as you scratched the back of your head.

"Heh, trouble just seems to like me." The crew laughed, adding their own two cents in that they didn't expect this from you. But to be fair, they didn't know what you were planning. You glanced around, questioning. "Hey, where's Shanks? I don't see him anywhere."

The light jovial mood seemed to disappear as the crew member's turned somber. Others even looking hesitant to even answer you. Monster stopping from grooming you altogether and making a sad noise.

Your stomach dropped.

Benn, who was the only one who looked the same with his expression, cooly blew smoke from his cigarette.

"He's doing a checkup with Hongo on the ship. You'll see him soon."

Despite how relaxed Benn stated it, your worry didn't dissipate. It only made it grow.

"What happened?" You demanded, form tense as you stared up at Benn who had a hard to read expression. Your gaze travelled to the others who avoided your gaze or met your own with carefully blank looks. You tsked, gaze turning towards their docked ship and taking a step towards it. "I'm going to go see him so he can tell me himself—"

Limejuice, with his platinum blond hair hidden within his beanie, and Benn stepped up to block your way.

"That is a bad idea, (Y/N)." Benn advised, carefully looking at you.

"Just wait for the Captain to come out," Limejuice added, smile looking flaky.

You paused, staring up at Benn and your gaze moving from him towards the rest of the crew. Even Monster left to go back to Bink's shoulders, him still making sad sounds.

They're nervous, you realize, eyes widening and your teeth gritting. Shanks is vulnerable, he has to be. And here I come out all of a sudden with what the news is stating about me. I didn't tell anyone any details besides me telling Shanks that I'm going to leave the World Government. I could still be an enemy. They, you clench your fists on your sides before releasing them, your eyes shadowed behind your cap, don't trust me.

You can't blame them. No matter how friendly and kind they are now, they saw what you did.

You're alive due to Shanks. Shanks and his mercy.

No matter the hunting competitions with Yasopp. The races with the kids of the island and you with Monster and Bonk. You teasing Benn you know a better smoker. Howling Gab showing off his laser by tearing down trees for wood while you stared, awed. Hongo's concerned yells and shouts for you to take it easy. Building Snake showing off his tattoo and the reason he got it, orange shades glinting. Limejuice showing off his bad hair under his beanie, embarrassed yet very confident he'll have it under control once it gets longer.

"I...see..." you say, eyes still shadowed and jaw tight.

Benn rose a brow at your strained tone, before sighing internally.

She's completely reading our intentions wrong. Benn thought with a hand to the bridge of his nose. We must protect his pride as his crew.

"Why is everybody looking glum? We're supposed to have a party!"

Your head snaps up so quick you cracked it but you didn't care. Shanks walked down the makeshift plank between his ship and the shore, a black cloak covering his shoulders and an easy smile on his lips. Hongo following behind him, eyes tight and analyzing on his captain but you only stared at the red head as he came up to where everyone was.

"(Y/N)! I thought it was you!" Shanks stated, eyes gleaming bright like always. You stood rooted to the spot, your mind trying to make sense what you're seeing. Shanks rose an exaggerated brow at you. "What? Don't tell me you came all the way out here to not say hi?"

"Shanks..." you managed to finally say, although it sounded far to your own ears. "Your hat...where...and your sword is in the wrong side..."

Don't tell me...!

Shanks kept his easy smile, as if you didn't say anything. Only tilted his head, right arm moving from beneath his black cloak to lay on his hip. Your eyes zoned in on the movement, eyes narrowed at his left side. Analyzing.

"I just wanted to change some thing's up. Nothing wrong with a change, right?" At your doubtful expression and seeing how your eyes didn't stray from his left side, Shanks let out a small sigh from his nose. "Ma...you don't have to worry. I'm perfectly fine. I'm not crippled, (Y/N). I simply..." your eyes followed as his right arm strayed to his left shoulder, your ears perking at the quiet yet prideful undertone of his voice. It made your hair rise. "...bet on a boy of the next generation."

Before you could take in those words, your eyes widened as Shanks put a hand to his shoulder, only for his coat to move with it to be against his side. As if his left arm wasn't there...!

His arm is gone...! Your eyes trembled in pure shock, your mind trying to make sense of what you're seeing. What could've happened while you were away?! Shanks isn't someone weak. He wouldn't be considered a potential Yonko if he was. And his treasure...!

You recall a moment when you were still bedridden in the ship. Before you begged forgiveness from the islanders, one of the times you and Shanks spoke. Your eyes couldn't help but stray to the straw hat atop his head as he sat on the chair next to your bed. You have never seen him without it. Outside of when he laid it on your own head to help hide your tears and what you saw as comforting. Your own cap was on your side on the bed, there for you if needed.

"I can't help but notice you never take that off," You interrupt Shanks from his story of his younger years and how his first mate Benn was quite short-tempered at first. Shanks blinked at you from the interruption. You couldn't help but compare that to how Lucci would glower at you when you interrupted or how he would give a kick or chokehold and throw to others. The innocent curious blink making you get a funny feeling again. Your cheeks felt slightly heated in embarrassment but you moved to point at his straw hat. "What's the story there?"

"Oh. This?" Shanks easily smiled, taking off his hat and holding it in his hand. Eyes the color of autumn appearing distant in memory as he stared in nostalgia at the straw hat. "This has quite a story of it's own. Although," Shanks threw his hat slightly up, managing to catch it with his finger as the hat spun. You couldn't help but have your eyes sparkle and make a noise of awe as Shanks threw you a playful grin. "It's quite a long story. I don't know all of it myself but I do know this." He caught the hat within his hand, leaning forward on his knees as he stared at it, wistful. "The man who gave me this is the greatest man I've ever known. And I hope I can even be an inch like him. This hat...is really important to me. I've had it ever since I could remember. It's..." Shanks released a low knowing chuckle. "You could say it's a moving treasure of mine."

Your eyes widened. You glanced at your side to your cap, looking at in a new light.

That's like my hat too.

Shanks, catching where your gaze was, made a questioning hum.

"You haven't let that out your sight either. Although, you haven't put it on your head each time I've come."

You poked slightly at your MARINE cap, eyes and fingers tracing the rim and the words.

"I...I guess you can call it my own treasure." You smile lightly, the sight making Shanks blink and stare. "If a marine could have such a thing. I've also had this for quite a long time. As to why I'm not having it on besides the reason of me always laying down," your smile widened as Shanks chuckled before you sobered. "...there has been times where the hat...it becomes heavy. It's mostly when I act in a way that may have been...well, just not the right way. Right now, I'm trying to think what I'm going to do for the future. I'm...I'm a bit lost right now. I don't know how to explain it but...it's like..."

"Like you're not worthy of it." Your eyes darted to Shanks. His eyes held understanding as they met your own, lips an iota quirked. "I get it. It's like you're letting it down. Or maybe not it. The legacy behind it."

The legacy...you looked back down at your hat, the memory of when you first got it placed on your head, all rough with your hair deeply ruffled and yet...Yeah. You could say that.

How Shanks seemed to understand you made a question come up once more as you turned towards him, serious.

"If it's so precious to you than why did you..." You swallowed your apprehension of your words. Shanks just waiting patiently as he sat by your side, hat still in his hand. "Why did you put it on my head? When I was..." You stopped. You couldn't say the words.

Even now, you're in disbelief of this man before you.

"Maa, is it really so crazy?" Shanks asked easily. The casualness of his words making your eyes widen. "I saw what you needed. And letting you borrow my hat for awhile, it's no skin off my nose." He scratched his nose with a wink as if to highlight his point. He lowered it as he gave you a soft smile. "Sometimes, there's nothing to say."

He gave me his treasure...to comfort me...? The mere memory and realization of this made tears come to your eyes. Even I've never done that.

Shanks eyes widened comically, hands waving dramatically in front of him.

"H-Hey, hey! Now, now. It really was nothing!"

You couldn't help but laugh, a little broken yes but a laugh. You looked up as you rubbed a stray tear from the corner of your eye, smiling in a mix of exasperation and incredulity.

"Only you can say something like that was nothing." You point out. Shanks raising a brow at you in innocent confusion. The look made your heart warm at the sight. What a kind yet childish man. "I've never done such a thing. I guess you could call me selfish." You release a bitter chuckle as your head bowed. Shanks stare sobering as he gazed at you. "I don't let people touch it...and those I did..." You internally shook your head from the memory. No. Don't think about it. Only Smoker and Garp did. No one else. No one. "Well. It doesn't matter anymore. I guess you could say...I'm... I'm scared of those who do."

You felt the tightness in your throat release at the confession. When was the last time you threw your pride away? To confess something as vulnerable as that?

And yet, for some reason, you don't feel as if Shanks would judge you.

It was quiet for a moment. You carefully looked up through your eyelashes, only for them to widen.

Shanks, with his eyes the color of autumn and promising a new season, gazed at you with respect and understanding. Your heart fluttered at the soft look.

"I'm sure you have your reasons. You don't have to explain anything to me." His eyes closed as he put his treasure back on his head, before he opened them up again, half-lidded. "And who knows? Perhaps your feelings will change one day."

Perhaps you'll trust others one day with your treasure, he seemed to say.

He doesn't want to push you. He won't barrage you with questions. Even without the whole story, he seems to truthfully and wholeheartedly understand.

And you understand him too. Perhaps not fully yet, but both of you know of legacies and heaviness of the treasures they hold. The burdens yet treasured memories within such a simple things as an old cap and a weary straw hat. Others can have their gold and jewels. You two, you both carry something much more precious than mere money.

I want to know more about you, Shanks.

You didn't say that. You only gave an acquiescing nod and a careful smile.

"Perhaps it will." You say quietly, (e/c) eyes connecting with half-lidded fall. As the moment lengthened with none of you breaking eye contact, Shanks seemed to search your face as he rose a brow. Only to let out a smooth chuckle. Your brows furrowed at the sound, it tickled your ears. "Something wrong?"

"Hmm?" He observed your expression, seeing your sincerity. He couldn't help but laugh, shaking his head even as his cheeks slightly reddened due to your look. "Maa, it's nothing important. Just my imagination." Your brows only deepened further at that, your confusion evident. You were even frowning. How cute, Shanks thought to himself, endeared.

Huh, you thought tilting your head only to take note that Shanks eyes seemed to twinkle more along with his smile curving a bit at your action, his eyes look odd.

You let it go, instead focusing on his straw hat in his head once more. You wonder if he's like you in another way.

"So, you would protect that with your all than?"

Shanks grinned, tapping his hat and holding the brim of it.

"Maa, I'll fight wars to get this back. Wouldn't be much of a treasure if I don't at least do that, right?"

You nod, pleased.

"Right. I agree."

"I figure you would," Shanks winked.

Your cheeks heated at his playful look, for whatever reason. It was just a wink after all! That only made you more embarrassed as you turned your face away, hoping to play it off. You're just looking out the window. Nothing happened.

Shanks staring at the back of your head, hand to his cheek, intrigued and bemused as you kept your face firmly away from his.

Embarrassed by an innocent wink and not what happened just before? How cute indeed. His amused eyes fell back into understanding as he assessed you. You hold more emotions than you let on. I have a weakness for sad eyes but...you were never meant to have them, were you? Such is life. I wonder...if I'll see you open up even more.

Soon after, Shanks left with a soft and encouraging "You're doing good." Your eyes snapping to his form only to his back as he made his exit, that he should check on the others. The echo of his words bouncing around in your head, not just the encouragement, but of understanding. Of treasures and what to do for them.

That's why I can't...! You grit your teeth, jaw tight as your gaze never left the sight of Shanks absent left dominant arm. Not even taking heed of the dark intent flowing out of you, Shanks eyes calmly staring at your expression unbeknownst to you with a frown. The crew doing their own reactions from frowns to concerned to shock at the aura you're releasing. No. You only cared about who did this. Who defeated this man?! And how dare they, how dare they take his treasure...! I can't accept this! I must make this right! Your eyes darkened, glinting in determination of what you're willing to do. Karasu seeming to glint to match your ire. The darkness stirred within. I'll kill them—

"(Y/N)." You blink at the hand on your shoulder, firm yet not tight. You looked up to see Shanks, his brows slightly furrowed but holding a calm smile that could even make the darkest of storms still. "It's alright. Did you hear me? I chose this. It was for a boy of the next generation, Luffy. We've told you stories about him, remember?"

Your eyes shifted, recollection coming back.

"Luffy...? The boy who always pesters you to let you in the crew?" Shanks brows relaxed, as he nodded, yet his hand on your shoulder did not fall. You moved your own hand automatically atop his, doing your own confused squeeze as your mind tried to catch up to the words being said. "But...your hat...your treasure..."

Shanks calm smile twitched and it seemed more somber. Yet, you could see his eyes that flickered with pride. You didn't move your gaze from that.

"He's going to hold onto it for me. Until the time comes where he can be greater than I." Shanks chuckled, low and rumbling, excitement and yet you couldn't help but see that his gaze may be ahead but his mind was somewhere else. "It's truly a moving treasure."

Your brows furrowed in confusion.

He said that weirdly again. But...

Your stormed gaze calmed, along with the darkened intent that was flowing out of you subconsciously. The crew seeming to relax around you, but you paid no mind. Only stared up at your savior who's gaze met yours.

"So...you're okay?" You asked, squeezing his sun kissed hand that was still atop your shoulder as if to confirm. "And that boy...Luffy...he's okay too?"

Shanks gaze softened at you, squeezing your shoulder back as an answer itself. You relaxed before he opened his mouth.

"Yes."

You nodded, lips in a set line with only the ends slightly up.

"Good."

The both of you kept your gazes on each other before you took notice you were still holding onto his hand atop your shoulder. The tips of your ears felt hot before you released him and stepped back, your gaze fluttering away. Shanks raising a brow, eyes amused mixed with that softness but he released his hold on you as well. You turned your gaze back towards him, peering up at him curiously and pretending that nothing happened.

"That boy, Luffy. He must be greater than what any of you guys shared before."

That's the conclusion you came to. You still can't fathom someone holding onto your treasure for a short while, but for years? And a whole limb...well...you do have a protective streak. You don't know what you would do to stop from someone close to you dying. You already know what you would do if someone hurt another you cared for. Your mind going straight to killing out of vengeance. But a limb...? Than again, Luffy is a young boy. No child should die so early.

Your jaw ticked, eyes tightening as you thought of what you did in that mission. You shook the memories away.

Never again.

Shanks released a rambunctious laugh. The crew doing their own laughs and chuckles and reminiscing about this boy, Luffy.

"He's a handful," Shanks admits.

"And easily angered," Benn adds with amusement.

"Same age as my young boy Usopp," Yasopp intercedes with a fond grin, no doubt thinking of his family back in his island like he always seems to do. "But I imagine more fiery."

"Always pestering the captain with pulls and climbing atop his body like a monkey," Lucky stated in between laughs and making the others follow. "Stubborn. Maybe to others annoying."

"Tries to fight no matter how big or bad the other opponent is."  Hongo continued, half admiration half annoyance as he scoffed. "And tries to prove a point too by adding a scar I had to stitch up."

"Quite selfish!" Bonk Punch guffawed, Monster on his shoulder and making his own chittering noise to add on to it. "Won't take no as no. But also seems to know about how to be a man." Bonk glanced at Benn knowingly. Benn catching it and only doing a casual shrug as he inhaled his cigarette.

"Not afraid," Howling Gabb interjected, his sharp teeth out to be seen as he grinned: "Will go inside a rumored abandoned haunted shack if told to. Albeit with a promise of mouth watering grub afterwords."

"Has big dreams, bigger than his tiny little body can handle." Limejuice added wisely, but the platinum blond was also smiling like everyone else.

"Will not stop to achieve it. Won't stop. Because that stubbornness and childishness won't let him." Building Snake said, and the crew nodded. Adding a few "Hear, Hear!" or "You go that right!" here and there.

Shanks grinned widened, his smile turning into a close eyed one that always seems to make you squint from its brightness like the sun.

"And he'll become greater than our crew one day and become the King of the Pirates! Dahahahaha!"

Your eyes widened, more balls than eyes due to how popped out they were.

"Wha—?! Pirate King?!" Based on how they described him just now, you admit he kinda sounded like you when you were younger but—"Y-You really think so?"

Shanks calmed, autumn eyes twinkling.

"I know so. He just needs to step it up the next few years. The world by then should be ready for another shift."

He sounded confident you observed. He already looked proud and the boy didn't even truly do anything yet.

Huh...Luffy... You heard the crew giving yells and shouts of agreement as your eyes were shadowed beneath your cap. But not quite paying attention as Shanks called for a party, to get the barrels. Lost in thought at what the crew stated to you before when you were still healing with them, about the rambunctious boy named Luffy. And now with all that's happened since last time you saw Shanks. I...want to meet you even more now. I want to see for myself what kind of person you are, Luffy. Wait...

You blinked. Your thoughts seeming to repeat the name Luffy over and over again. Your mind seeming to make an audible click as Lucky's words about comparing Luffy to a monkey.

Monkey D....Luffy?!

"GARP'S GRANDSON?!" You shouted in shock, hands to cheeks.

Everyone's snapped towards your form, pausing from holding barrels.

Shanks blinked himself at you. His hand than moving to his chin.

"Ah. Yes. Goa Kingdom is under Garp's jurisdiction." Shanks rubbed the back of his head, laughing easily. "Dahahaha! Fortunately we planned accordingly if we suspected he was on his way and just left for supplies before coincidentally coming back when he would leave."

He knew?!

"But you—" you stopped, sputtering before releasing a snort in disbelief because there's no way. "Pfft! You knew Luffy was the Old Man's grandson?!" You felt pity for the boy. Garp is going to give him a lot of Fist of Love's if Luffy constantly spouted he'll become a pirate.

You put a hand to your own head as if to remember, lips an iota up.

How nostalgic.

Shanks spotted your smile, however small it was, and relaxed slightly. He's glad you're out of the rump you seem to keep falling into. But that Old Man comment, and your casual tone of saying it, confirmed what he suspected. All the rumors had truth in it after all.

Shanks shrugged at your question with his uninjured shoulder.

"Blood won't stop Luffy's dream. He's too stubborn and has a similar spirit as the sea itself with the need for freedom and adventures."

You thought of your own stubbornness to accept Cipher Pol's offer. Despite Garp's warnings, no matter how, you didn't listen yourself. Even if Garp constantly beat you with his Fists of Love, he would've let you crawl to Enies Lobby yourself. Never chained you or willing to. Because despite Garp's job, despite him being a marine and therefore seen as a rule follower, a law enforcer—your Old Man has a free, adventurous spirit himself.

"Where are we going?" You ask at nine years old. Kuroi ten'nosabaki dwarfing your small form, you having to completely angle it so it won't scrape on the ground. Your small marine clothes scuffed along with your skin due to the harsh training you had at Marineford from Garp and Bogard. But your cap still proudly on your head, albeit loosely because you still need to grow a bit. You having to hold it as a wave jostled their ship so it doesn't fly away as you and the Old Man stood by the bow of the ship. "I thought we had to wait for an assignment to go somewhere."

Garp scoffed, all crossed arms over his large chest as he glanced down at you.

"Who told you a stupid thing like that?" You shrugged, but stopped due to how your Buster sword scrapped the deck at the action. You threw Garp a sheepish look. Garp shaking his head and releasing a huff as he stared straight ahead at the open sea. The deep blue waters shimmering in the bright sunlight, with waves coming up to try to splash them but all they got were little drops. "I don't know why you're pretending you weren't itching to get out of there like I was, brat."

"Hey! I'm not pretending, stupid old man!" You were ready to fight, until your eyes widened at how easily Garp grabbed you by the back of your collar as if you were a pup and he the tired parent. He set you atop the railing of the ship, steadily holding onto you by the legs. You were about to ask him why he did this before you looked, your breath catching in your throat as you stared. "Wow."

At the railing, you felt like you were above the ocean when you stared down. And when you stared ahead, with the wind gusting at you and Garp moving your arms to be up at your sides, you felt like a bird flying.

You laughed, excited and fascinated at the waves and the wind. Garp joining in with that mighty guffaw of his. You not complaining, for once, at how loud that laugh of his is. His laugh only seeming to increase your joy and wonder, as you leaned forward, knowing the Old Man will keep you from falling with his grip on your legs and your sword won't cut him.

"Wahahahahaha! Amazing, right?! I don't know who told you that but know this. No one is going to control what I do, no matter what others say! And that goes for you too!"  You felt more than saw Garp's sharp grin, his head still above yours despite your added height from the railing. The wind no doubt playing against his black and grey locks upon his head. "As for where we're going...what's the fun in that?! We'll stop where we need to and go where we need to! The greatest..." Garp stopped, seeming to gather his thoughts or maybe he was being dramatic. Yet, unbeknownst to you, Monkey D. Garp thought of a dear dead friend who did what he must for his crew. And was the sea himself. Garp gathered his resolve, and what he knows is true. "The greatest destination is one you don't know yet!"

I wonder, you think with expression lost in sentimental nostalgia, in another life, would you have become a pirate? You met Shanks eyes.

"You're right. If he's as stubborn as you say, Old Man Garp won't stop him." Do I wish he stopped me though? You moved on from that quickly as you glanced around. "What's the party for though?"

"Why!" Shanks put his arm around your shoulders, steering you towards the others who already have everything set up on the sand and near the base of the palm trees. "You're here aren't you? You're free to do what you want! That's a perfect reason to celebrate! Right, men?"

The crew lifted their cups and cheered.

"Hai, Hai! To (Y/N)!"

For me...?

Your eyes widened, letting him move you to sit down beside him on a base of a tree, uncaring of the sand. Your heart doing a funny little thing as you felt yourself relax and warmth spread.

"You guys..." Your endeared smile widened as you laughed, closing your eyes as you did so with a hand to your neck. "Thank you!"

The crew stared as you practically had soft sparkles all around you.

Cute, they thought before glancing at their captain to spot his tender gaze looking down at you, smile soft and twitching to widen at your brightness, cheeks slightly flushed where one might have to squint. Oh.

Benn Beckmann analyzed his captain, cigarette loosely on his lips as Shanks moved to ask you just how you did it from your own lips. The others wishing to hear it too as they all sat down but not before giving you your (favorite juice) they happened to have on hand after they found about it last time. And since you seem to be stubborn in not drinking a drop. Shanks wanting to know the story there too. You only stuttering and stumbling in a flustered state that made Shanks brows rise along with an interested smile that Benn learned to mean his captain smells blood in the water and wishes to know. Yet, interestingly holding back and acquiesces to you. Again. Not teasing as much as he usually does.

Benn hummed to himself as he observed how close Shanks was to you, thighs touching as they both sat and leaned against the base of a bent palm tree. Shanks seeming to do well with ignoring the phantom pain Hongo warned him about, only listening attentively to how you interrupted a meeting when you arrived to Marineford to you punching the CP9 director to the jaw.

This might be different than a roll in the sheets. Benn inhaled deeply, his cigarette turning an amber red from the force before dispelling as Benn blew smoke for the ocean breeze to catch. This is a beginning of something. Something tugged along Benn's senses, Observation Haki seeming to itch. Benn frowned. And yet...

Benn's frown deepened as his gaze turned to the right, far and towards the sea.

"Ohhhhhh, so that's how you got that?" Shanks didn't have to point for you to know what he meant.

You nodded, touching your scarred left cheek that's still rough and messy. You left out the main reason why you let Lucci do such a thing. Despite Shanks seeming to understand you on a deep level, you're not sure if he would understand this like you and Lucci do.

"Yeah. Became a...parting gift you could say."

You had a contemplative expression at that. Huh.  It is a parting gift now that you've stated it out loud. Although, it's more of a gift you gave yourself. You let him give it to you, so is it really a gift if you didn't give it to him? Should you have gave him one back? Question marks appeared in your mind as you internally frowned in thought.

Wait no. You gave the lotion as his gift. But the scar was also like a gift. Not just a promise.

...

Right?

GAHHHHHH! Whatever! Who cares?!

You seem to, the narrator pointed out blandly.

Shanks took in your expression that seemed to be a mix of troubled, contemplation, annoyance, and yet also deep in your (e/c) eyes...you look lost.

Ah. (Y/N), Shanks maintained his composure when he spotted it, mouth covered by his cup of ale, so no one could spot his mouth in a line. Only his eyes holding sympathy. I can't control this for you. You've already denied being with us. But, there's no issue in helping you find where you wish to go. You're free.

A familiar itch came within Shanks senses, but he ignored it as he kept his focus on you. The only evidence he gave that he felt it was a twitch of his mouth.

"So," you turn towards Shanks, who set his cup down atop his lap as he tilted his head at you curiously. "You seemed to have gone around trying to find us after you left the World Government behind. Have you changed your mind?"

"I know this may be a little late but," Shanks put his hand down, and leaned down next to you on the ship's edge, warm eyes on you with a close eyed soft smile that made your cheeks warm, "since you're already here, why don't you join my crew?"

You bit your inner lip, throat getting a little tight.

Again. He's offering again.

Will you really deny him again?

You finished what you were set out to do. The original reason for your denial has passed. You're free to do anything. Go anywhere and be anyone and be anything.

But...does that mean including to be a pirate? Under Red-Haired Shanks? Right now, you're a mere drifter. A deserter. Just traveling the seas and going where it takes you. You don't have a title to really be called, besides what others say.

That you left. A traitor.

You haven't found a place yet. A title you could proudly call your own and not one that's been stamped on you.

But Shanks is opening a spot for you to get under. Allowing you, a misplaced puzzle piece, to be a part of a grand piece of art. Go as far to say as a home.

And yet...even now as you sit next to your savior, that is as bright as the sun with his smiles as sunbeams and the feeling of warmth that can burn if you get too close—you feel unworthy of it.

He's miles better than you.

And you haven't come close to achieving your dream. To defeat Big Mom. Maybe...maybe then...

Then...will I be worthy of you?

You formed a casual smile that you even felt was empty as you shook your head. Your eyes staring down at your cup on your lap.

"No. No, I haven't. I think...I need to find my own way. B-But—" You sneakily peered up at Shanks, shy as your hands tightened around your cup. "Can I...is your other offer still available? Will that...will that be okay?"

"You are always welcomed on this ship. Always."

Shanks kept his expression carefully blank outside that calm smile. The intensity in the air rose as he chuckled, tipping your chin up and you felt your breath stop as his eyes glittered, tone low yet earnest.

"Why, I did say always. Not much of an offer if I take it back, (Y/N)." Too close! Your head screamed, hand still holding your chin as he teased you. You're positive he can feel how inflamed your skin is right now. He seemed to give you mercy, since he released you with a laugh. Your hand going to your released chin, covering it along with your mouth as you felt flushed as you glanced up at him as his body shook. "I'm sorry! Couldn't resist. Try not to think so much. And I'm here if you ever need a helping hand. Now that I have just the one," he added with a wink.

He...tried to distract you? Did he know your thoughts? No way... You thought in awe, mouth agape. And joking about a limb he just lost?!

You couldn't help it. You snorted in surprise. Trying to muffle it only for you to laugh out loud.

Yasopp groaned.

"That was horrible, Shanks."

"What?" Shanks stated with a grin, pointing a thumb at you and looking prideful. "(Y/N)'s laughing!"

"Someone has to." Hongo interjected with a huff. "Your jokes are awful. Especially with what you did! You almost made me get a heart attack when you walked through the bar with blood spurting everywhere from your bitten off arm!"

"Maa, Maa." Shanks scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "I was outside the bar. I wouldn't stain Makino's bar like that."

"DOENST EXCUSE IT!" Hongo shouted with sharp teeth. The scene only making you laugh harder.

You wiped the tears from your eyes and hardened your resolve as to the reason you came. Well. One of the reasons.

"Actually, Shanks." Shanks focused onto you. "I mostly came because I had a battle with someone. I would've lost if I didn't get outside help. I was wondering..."

Wait.

Your eyes glanced at his lost arm, covered by his black cloak.

You wilted.

I can't ask that of him. He's still recovering.

Shanks spotted your glance, and with your words he came to the obvious conclusion as he brightened.

"Oh? You need training?" You nodded, but still glancing to his arm worriedly. "What do you know about Haki?"

"Not much." You admit, hand moving to Karasu's hilt. Recalling your hesitance of using either of your swords or else they would break from that captain obsessed with salt. "I know of it. But I don't think I've ever achieved it. Well... I did have this sense the last second of his attacks."

You didn't mention you first felt this back in the island with the villagers. You rather keep that a secret.

Shanks hummed, hand to chin as he leaned forward, elbow to knee.

"Observation Haki sounds like. But say, you can ask."

At your confusion, Shanks motioned his hand towards you kindly.

"Come on. You can be selfish. Ask. You're a pirate, aren't you?"

"I...I don't know yet, really."

"Well, whatever you are," Shanks joked, hand atop your shoulder. "Ask. You're free to do so. Take it if you wish." Shanks added softly yet with meaning that bypassed your head.

A part of your mind clicked. You don't have to take orders anymore in silence. Or be silent.

You're free. Shanks reminded you. Take. Do. Say. No holding back.

Don't hold back.

You tightened your hold on your cup before placing it on the ground, turning to fully face Shanks, fists atop your black pants. Shanks observing this, charmed at your determined expression and formality.

Cute, he repeated in his head. The word that keeps automatically popping in his head when it comes to you. Which he doesn't mind. If only you realize this. How admirable you already are.

"I want to get stronger and need a proper teacher of the sword so can—"

"Ignoring my presence for this long..." A figure stepped out in front of everyone as the air stilled. "...Akagami?"

You stiffened, eyes darting at the low smooth voice. Hand automatically to your buster sword behind you as your mind caught up to who you're seeing.

Dracule Hawkeyes Mihawk! Pulse hammered in your neck, as his golden gaze spared you a glance before moving towards the man next to you. Alarm shot through you. Their rivals! But Shanks is recently injured...! I can't let them fight!

You shifted to stand, at the ready only for your hand around Kuroi ten'nosabaki'a hilt to be covered. You glanced at Shanks underneath your cap, keeping you in place as Shanks only smiled towards the World's Greatest Swordsman.

"Hello, Takanome! You sure know how to track me down! I must say, you caught me at a bad time. Can we have a go another time? You interrupted our party!"

How's he being so casual? You carefully watched the swordsman, who was completely relaxed despite how the crew were staring daggers at him. Tense just as you were for a fight to break out. He didn't even seem to care as his eyes only observed Shanks blankly, lips in a line that shows no evidence of moving. You swallowed, sweat going down your temple as your blood pumped, the atmosphere thick. He hasn't even done anything and I'm already full of adrenaline.

You clearly didn't feel this when you interrupted the Warlord meeting a month ago. To be fair, you were on a high so you didn't focus too much on anyone. Besides Kuzan. You didn't care for the Warlords there.

But, now that you see the World's Greatest Swordsman in front of you, his coat behind him along with the legendary Yoru that glints in the light along with that piercing gaze, you briefly wondered if you're air headed. His presence beheld power. This man was a swordsman of swordsmen and famous(or infamous to others) for his grace and strength with each strike, all precision and skill. If you weren't in this position, you're sure you would feel awe.

The golden gaze that could cut others with a look, settled onto where Shanks injured arm was hidden before moving to where Shanks sword now was. They narrowed.

"Someone got the best of you, Akagami." The stoic man stated more than questioned, tone low and dry as his gaze roved to meet yours. You tensed. "The newly free dog bit you?"

And just like that, caution went to the wind.

What?!

You glared, (e/c) eyes sharp and tone cutting. Kuroi ten'nosabaki and Karasu glinting in tandem.

"What did—" You paused when Shanks squeezed your hand, a question in your eyes. Shanks gave you a quick comforting glance before turning his intense gaze onto the swordsman. You frowned but you acquiesced, relaxing automatically as you leaned back against the tree, hand loosening around your sword.

Dracule Mihawk rose an internal brow at the exchange.

"Maa~, Dracule. Don't be rude! Come! Join the party! It's been some time since we caught up." At the stoic man's silence, Shanks added, "I got this wine that you'll like!"

Your frown deepened, giving a spare glance to Shanks before your eyes moved back and forth between the two men.

Are they...friends...?

Your brain turned completely blank as you took in each man as your eyes darted from one to the other.

One infamous for his cold detachment, his face not faltering not once even when you were in the meeting and you spouted those words to him. Assessing and analytical with that golden gaze that gave him his namesake, with pale skin and a sharp jawline that practically screamed elegance. Without even speaking of his style of clothes. Voice quiet yet demanding for others to listen each times he speaks, if his presence won't make others cower first.

The other, all easygoing and casual since you've met him. Not only in personality but in how he dresses, open to comfortability more than making a fashion statement like this one over here. Roguishness from him and all smiles, whether calm or blinding you in their brilliance. Laughing comes easy and the sound of it is euphonious with a kindness that can make anyone falter.

Your eyes darted around the both of them, taking note how one is a ravanette, perfect to hide in the shadows. And the other is a bright head of scarlet hair that demands to be seen.

They're complete opposites! There's no way!

The swordsman held his gaze with Shanks, before glancing to the red haired's head to roving his gaze around the crew. An arm covered with maroon sleeves moved.

He was seeing how many to take out! You panic, but stay because Shanks's hold on you hasn't left and he's not tense at all. But...but...!

The swordsman crossed his arms across his chest, tilting his head down in a semblance of a nod.

"...very well."

THAT EASY?!

Your mouth went slack as you heavily leaned completely back the tree, hat askew on your head. Shanks only laughing next to you and just like that the atmosphere from both the crew and the swordsman dissipated.

Shanks patted your hand twice before giving a comforting squeeze.

"Why, (Y/N), no need to be so tense!" Shanks let go of you and motioned for the stoic man to be sat across from him atop a log as a crew member handed the visitor a cup that the swordsman immediately studied to see the insides as he sat. "Despite whatever you've heard, we're actually good friends. We've known each other for years."

Friends don't have that kind of tension! You wanted to scream that, but settled to try to steady your heart as you kept your focus on the swordsman.

"Don't spread lies, Akagami." Hawkeyes toned, before taking a sip of his cup. He stared down at it before he took another sip in approval of the taste.

Shanks kept his grin, laughing all the while as he pointed at Hawkeyes as if to prove.

"See! We tease! Don't mind his words. Takanome is actually quite a jokester once you get to know him."

"Fool."

Shanks grin only widened, his person practically sparkling.

"See."

Hawkeyes ignored him, deciding to finish his drink and lifted his cup slightly to the side in silent request for another which a crew member did immediately.

You sweatdropped.

You don't think you've ever been more bewildered than you are at this moment.

But, you took a breath, fixing your cap appropriately as you settled languidly against the tree as you took a sip of your drink while your shadowed eyes studied the Warlord. If Shanks trusts him, that's all I need.

You stayed quiet as the party truly begun, crew members starting drinking games with Shanks even challenging Hawkeyes to one. Which Hawkeyes surprisingly accepted. Shanks not leaving your side as he just had crew members bring barrels.

You kept your eyes focused on the swordsman under your cap, expression carefully blank as you watched him. Assessing each movement and his detached reactions if Shanks got close or bumped the man's knee or loudly guffawed. Your mind recalling of every story you've heard or read when it came to the Warlord. Trying to match what you're seeing now.

But also, recalling you never truly got an answer back in Marineford. It was a joke but...

Your eyes glanced towards Shanks side which was covered by his cloak, lips pressing together.

Phantom pain isn't to be laughed at. No matter how Shanks is acting, you've seen how excruciating it could be back when you were a marine.

And...(E/C) eyes glinted, sharp and determined. I did ask him first.

"Mind your eyes, stray." You blinked as yellow eyes managed to meet yours even shadowed under your cap, his own gaze shadowed by his feathered hat. "Unless you wish to openly challenge me instead of pointlessly glaring."

He noticed.

You tsked before your brows furrowed as you sat up.

Wait. Stray...?

You clenched your jaw before huffing out your nose.

"Not what you're thinking. But say, since you're a Shichibukai and all, you won't happen to rat out to others where I am, right?"

The swordsman eyes sharpened.

"I'm not interested in being a puppet. Nor did you it seems, stray." Hawkeyes observed idly, assessing. "You had the others fooled that you were a cowed dog with a collar."

Your eyes rounded before you released a surprised short laugh followed by a sharp grin.

"Pfft! You noticed? Your eyes really are sharp." Hawkeyes didn't comment, only stared down at you. Your grin fell to a frown. "Hey, can you stop calling me stray though? Not cool."

"That's what you are." You bristled at how calmly he said it. As if it was fact. "And your collar is what you cling to. You haven't thrown it off your head."

Is he calling my hat my collar?

Shanks, who has kept quiet till now, decided to interject as he gave Hawkeyes a reproving look.

"Takanome. She's not a marine anymore. You read the papers. They've publicly announced her a deserter. Wait," Shanks blinked. "Have you two met before?"

Hawkeyes, once again, ignored him as the eyes of amber that can make a man cower pierced through you.

You stubbornly met it, eyes still holding that glint.

"Why should I believe rumors when it can be muddled. Your tie to your collar that you cling to, might actually reveal you're with a sword hidden in the shadows."

Your brows furrowed in confusion at where he's getting at.

He's accusing you of something.

Wait...there was a rumor in the marine ranks somewhere...of something like Cipher Pol.

You audibly scoffed at the Worlds Greatest Swordsman. Benn, behind a few feet away to observe and listen despite the rambunctiousness of the others, chuckled at your gall.

"You're not making sense. You said it yourself how I looked. You think I'll stay in the place I was?"

Hawkeyes moved his gaze from you towards Shanks, and glanced around the crew once more. His head moving towards the crews ship, focused on searching for something. What, you're not sure.

"I can admit I am trying to make sense of events." You blinked at his admittance, not expecting it. Hawkeyes turned his gaze back towards you, settling on your cap. "It does not change why you keep the collar. When you managed to bite the leash from it."

What's with all these dog metaphors? You think annoyed. I know what pirates call us but man, it's like he actually sees a tail and ears on my head.

"Dracule, it's her treasure. She won't get rid of it."

Hawkeyes cocked a brow, disbelieving as he glanced at Shanks.

"Its true," you say, hands tight on your lap as golden eyes met yours. You did not so much as twitch, Hawkeyes observed. "I don't care what you think, but this is my treasure. And I don't appreciate you demeaning it by calling it a collar. It's way more than that." You pointed behind the swordsman's back. "You value that right? Well I value this," you jutted a thumb to your cap, moving it slightly upwards by the brim. "And I'm not getting rid of it. I never will unless someone pries it from me from my dead body."

Hawkeyes briefly deliberated your words before sending Shanks a pointed glance.

"Funny. I heard something similar before."

Shanks shot the swordsman a look, them seeming to communicate with one another with nothing needing to be said.

The swordsman briefly closed his eyes, only to dart towards you when you wholeheartedly decided.

"I was serious back in HQ."

Shanks brows furrowed.

"What?"

Hawkeyes lips flattened. Well, flattened more.

"No."

"What?! Why?!" You complain, standing up with a fist to your chest. "I can handle it, master!"

Shanks and the crews eyes bogged out their skulls.

"WHAT??!!"

Hawkeyes stared down at his empty cup, appearing inconvenienced at where he was. And why he travelled all the way here to the East Blue with the vivre card only to be bothered with shouts and ridiculous requests.

Shanks stared at you, agape, hands to his cheeks in exclaimed confusion.

"M-Master?! When did this—wait, HQ?! Don't tell me..."

The crew seemed to finish his statement along with him as you just kept your fiery eyes on Hawkeyes form. Who seemed to just want his cup to suddenly have the power to swallow him whole and take him away from here.

"...THE MEETING YOU INTERRUPTED WAS A WARLORDS?!"

You flapped a hand uncaringly.

"It wasn't that important to mention."

Shanks jaw dropped while crew members fell to the floor at your indifference.

Hawkeyes glanced up at your words, gazes connecting. And you did not so much as flinch. Your fiery eyes only turning more ablaze as his penetrative critical eyes focused on yours. No evidence of cowering or wariness.

A stubborn stray, Hawkeyes concluded with a hint of amusement. Will not be cowed ever again to obey.

"No."

Hawkeyes reiterated, stronger than before and holding no evidence of being bent. But his gaze did not leave yours, observing your set expression from your lifted chin in defiance to your stubborn tense jaw to your slightly furrowed brows.

"Why not? Are you too busy with your Warlord duties to train somebody?" You dissed, in clear mockery yet foreknowledge that Hawkeyes rarely, if ever, attended a meeting. "Got a lot on your calendar?"

Molten golden eyes narrowed as Hawkeyes put his cup aside.

"Careful," Hawkeyes warned calmly, his intense presence adding onto the warning. "You may not be cowed with your newfound freedom, but I do not bend."

Interestingly enough, although he spotted your tense shoulders and sweat going down your temple at his quiet threat, it spurred you on more. A sharp grin appearing on your mouth, it appeared as if it could cut and you'll bite someone's throat out.

"Great! I don't want a master like that. And come on! I think the World's Greatest Swordsman teaching the future World's Strongest Woman has a nice ring to it."

Shanks blinked, finally deciding to observe and not squawk from the interaction in front of him. Assessing your expression. You glanced at him quickly, shooting a quick smile. But Shanks didn't miss your worry nor where you quickly glanced to before meeting Hawkeyes gaze once more, resolute.

That explains why. Truthfully, Shanks would've had to deny if you asked him. It wouldn't have gone well where he needs to train himself with his non dominant arm. And sword training can be perilous in a ship between two swordsman. Although, it would've been an excuse to stay with them in the ship as an honorary member for a short time. It would've helped somewhat. After everything that has happened in these last few months.

But...Shanks feels as if his old rival arrived at a good time.

Destiny? Shanks idly wondered with an inner knowing smile.

"Hardheaded," Hawkeyes said matter of factly at you, growing annoyed.

You only grinned, as if it was a compliment.

"I know! I got hit a lot!" What? The crew wondered but Shanks has some idea on what that could mean. You sobered. "But I never truly had a swordsman teach me. Not a master swordsman. Not like you. I had to figure it out on my own cause how unique my sword is. So," you pointed at him, unwavering and undaunted even at the swordsman's irritated glare, however subtle. "Teach me!"

Alarm shot through you, you using Kamisori to the left, stumbling at the speed you went as you fell back to the sand, skin scraping. Kuroi ten'nosabaki dull in concern while Karasu hissed.

Your eyes went towards where you were, your eyes rounding and heart stopping.

"Room for improvement," Hawkeyes cooly said, Yoru out in front of him that is blocked by another sword. Golden eyes above met yours below, the tension in your gut not being released, your jaw agape. "Lack of grace," he added as an afterthought.

"Takanome," Shanks hissed tensely, Gryphon tight on his non dominant hand as Gryphon and Yoru shook with the strength of their wielders, sparks stuttering out and wishing to add more light despite the sunbeams from above. "That was unnecessary."

Hawkeyes glanced at Shanks, passively observing their swords sparks before he made note of his rival's tense arm. He stepped back, sheathing Yoru and not caring for the guns aimed at him or swords out from sheaths.

"But it was." Hawkeyes turned his eyes towards you, your blood not seeming to slow down at all, your ear drums pounding yet your hearing unaffected. You saying nothing when Shanks called your name, you couldn't. Completely outmatched. Your hands shook on the sand as amber eyes that pierce meet wide (e/c). He could've killed me. Hawkeyes tilted his head down, lips frowning in a semblance of disappointment. "Are you cowed? Do you solely bark and hold no bite?"

Your chest was rising and falling, a pressure in your lungs and a bead of sweat going down your temple. You feel like if you tried to speak, it would be a breath more than words.

You touched your hair, seeing from your hand a few stray cut up strands.

He did it so effortlessly, you tightened your hand around the strands, shaking as you bowed your head and shadowed your expression with your cap. He held back. I would've been a kebab if he didn't. He was sitting all relaxed and sprung up just as easily in between the milliseconds of a blink. No. Nanoseconds. He...could've gone even faster than that...!

He's... You slowly peered up at the man, the sun's rays completely atop the swordsman, an awed yet shaky grin upon your lips as a bead of sweat fell from your chin...a swordsman of swordsmen...!

Excitement? Hawkeyes brow rose an iota before settling. A decision reached.

He settled back on the log, crossing his knees over another as he lightly clasped his hands together atop his lap. Indifferent to Shanks sheathing his sword and his intense Haki coming down on the swordsman as recompense due to Hawkeyes action. He will get his answers later as to what occurred between the stubborn stray and his rival. As well as everything in between.

"Find my island. Once you arrive, I will train you."

You blink. Once. Twice. Thrice.

You sat up, grin splitting your face, thrilled.

"Really?!"

"It is near where you were thrown off by a Sea King," Hawkeyes, your master, added. Ignoring your words but you don't care cause WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Shanks Conqueror's Haki relented at that, dissipating as he heard a sentence that once more made his brain stop.

"A Sea King?" Lucky seemed to ask out loud for him, pausing between bites.

"Thrown off?" Howling Gab added with a frown around his sharp teeth.

Shanks contemplated briefly to pull you aside and ask you for every single detail of what's happened since they last saw each other. And perhaps more. If all this can happen in a month, you must have some stories.

Before he even could, you dashed off in the direction of your boat. Shouting behind you, "SEE YOU LATER, GUYS! I HAVE SOMEWHERE TO GO! AND...THANK YOU!!!!"

"Safe travels!" Bonk Punch shouted, with Monster giving his own farewell.

"May the sea guide you well!" Yasopp yelled out too with a whoop.

Other crew members shouting their own farewells to you and that they'll see you next time.

"THANK YOU!!!" You shouted from the top of your lungs once, excitement clear as you found the first step to the path you wished to follow. A direction pointed you're eager to take to not stay adrift.

Shanks didn't have to wonder about the thanks. And you were rightfully excited.  But you could've given a hug to add to your goodbye.

Shanks felt himself pout, before furrowing his brows. Turning towards his rival to confirm his thoughts.

"Takanome. You didn't tell her the name of your island."

"She left before I could say," If Dracule was anyone else, they would've shrugged. But being who he is, Dracule's tone of cool indifference sufficed for Shanks to picture the shrug in his mind. Dracule's head rose, golden eyes narrow as the man tried to look through him. "What are you planning, Akagami?"

"Hmm? What do you mean?"

Mihawk was not amused and uninterested in playing games.

"You seem quite close to a recent ex-marine. I did not miss how the two of you sat, nor the needless protection she wished to provide you. And how you did the same."

Mihawk spotted the flash of Akagami's anger at the reminder before settling into a grim expression he rarely beheld. Akagami gave a glance to Beckmann and just like that, the crew left them alone. Akagami only spoke when the last crew member was out of earshot, sitting back against the bent tree behind him, uncaring for the sand.

"That was uncalled for, Dracule. And you know it."

"No. What you did was a waste of energy. Yoru would not have cut her. Her senses did not fail her nor the speed she currently has." Mihawk did not hide his gaze towards Akagami's covered arm. Or lack thereof. Mihawk kept careful attention this whole time each time the man's cloak shifted. There is no lie. Akagami was bested. And lost more than an arm. "Is she the cause?"

A many layered question that Akagami can clear up.

But the man is stubborn. And determined to keep his secrets.

Akagami smiled in false amusement.

"Curious about her, are you? Sorry," Akagami winked, the playful mask up that Mihawk always loathes to tear down due to how tight it is. "Found her first. But no. She isn't."

Mihawk took the words in, crossing his arms and tapping his arm twice in thought.

"You're still hiding something. The papers blaming you for Elegia. What happened to a kingdom shadowing pirates with the World Government's response. And now, you in the East Blue with no arm, no straw hat, an ex-marine at your side and I haven't sensed or seen—"

"Do you see me as a great mastermind, Dracule?" Akagami teased, eyes crinkled at the ends. It did not hide his weighty gaze. "A ruggedly handsome copy of Vegapunk?"

A nerve was hit, Mihawk noted. Is it to one? To all?

Mihawk didn't have to ponder much on it. He knows what would be the main cause which confirms his suspicions. He'll leave it. For now.

"Don't be coy. This isn't a dalliance of yours. Your over reaction with Yoru with your Haoshoku trying to subdue me and your gaze proves it. But it still doesn't take away your plans with her. Unless this is a way for you to meet an old crewmate of yours." At Akagami's bewilderment, Mihawk decided to tiredly clarify. "That ex-marine with the moniker Silver Blood, daughter of Silver of the Molten Metal. Are you trying to locate him?"

"(Y/N)? (Y/N) isn't..." Akagami's jaw dropped to the ground, looking pale as his hands came to his cheeks, eyes bugged out. "SILVER'S DAUGHTER?!"

So he wasn't aware? Mihawk blankly watched Akagami mutter and shout to himself, putting himself into a panic. Is this the hand I was dealt with? A fool as a rival.

Akagami stopped shouting, only putting a palm to his face as he laughed humorlessly.

"Seriously? I'm so screwed...my word is practically broken. Maa...he's going to kill me...Daha...haha..."

Mihawk examined Akagami, expression in a mix of distraught, false humor, and self deprecating despite his hand stayed to cover the top half of his face.

It was a hindrance to stare at.

"Word? Did you make an oath to Silver? I've heard nothing of you meeting with an old crew member."

Akagami groaned behind his hand.

"It was...it was a long time ago. It was after a fight with Whitebeard and I was thirteen. Still recovering from what happened before he pulled me and Buggy aside for us to swear. Truthfully..." Akagami let his hand fall away but he bowed his head, Mihawk unable to tell his expression but he could hear the red haired's tone of grim bewilderment. "...I never understood as to why he'd go so far. Despite being his daughter, what he's asking is hard to control or hold tight. She should be free to choose...especially now...(Y/N) should stay free. No one should take that away..." Akagami added as an afterthought, and without Mihawk noticing, Shanks eyes widened as something clicked in his mind.

Mihawk stayed silent, contemplating the little information given to him by a willing Akagami. Whether it was due to the drinks or recent events, Mihawk doesn't care to know the reason.

An oath to not give the stray a choice, Mihawk concluded. To which choice, or rather possible choices, it can be anything. And after a recent battle with Shirohige? Did Akagami even take in all the words Silver stated?

"Why the worry?" Mihawk questioned instead, golden eyes studying Akagami who rose his head up and had a set expression on his face. "Your word is not entirely broken."

Akagami smiled dryly.

"No. Not entirely. There's a part in the promise I can still keep. As for the other," Akagami shrugged, as if to say what can you do? "There's a chance to correct it. With time. As to if it'll happen with (Y/N)..." Akagami's eyes tightened, appearing uncomfortable and pained at whatever thoughts is plaguing his mind. "...I worry for her."

Mihawk's brow rose when Akagami's gaze connected with his, a quiet smile along his lips despite the intensity.

"I must say, Dracule. Be careful with her."

"She wishes to be trained. And so I will push her to what's needed."

Akagami only shook his head, eyes crinkling in slight amusement but his intense gaze nor smirk faltered.

"No. (Y/N) has a tendency to...push quite far past the limit. Whether in apology or punishment towards herself. And quite devoted too."

"To you."

Akagami didn't say anything at that, only sighing from his nose, his mouth tilting up into a dry tired smile.

"Loyal to a heavy fault." Akagami commented. A comment that Mihawk gathered himself. You were willing to throw your life away once you spotted him. Willing to fight him despite the awareness of being outclassed even before he darted Yoru towards your general direction. All to protect the recently crippled Akagami. "But... I don't think you're understanding."

Mihawk's eyes narrowed at Akagami's shift of tone.

Showing your favor, Akagami?

Akagami grinned playfully, leaning in as if to tell a secret.

"You'll have a woman in your castle~! When was the last time that's happened? I hope you're ready for a whirlwind!"

If it was anyone else, the whiplash from the change of demeanor would've knocked someone down.

Mihawk's frown deepened.

"Nothing will happen. I'm not interested."

Akagami only hummed, a twinkle in his eyes that Mihawk always found it meant trouble.

"If you say so!"

Mihawk would've focused more on how Akagami's words of you were different before he discovered you were Silver's daughter compared to after. From playfulness possessiveness and protection to switching that Mihawk will have some issues with the stray in his castle. But Akagami moved to explain what occurred in the East Blue.

Starting with a boy that now bears a straw hat. Where Observation Haki saw no point to keep the boy alive without a sacrifice of a limb.

"A price to pay," Akagami said easily, taking a drink after.

And then, came Uta.

Akagami was quiet, contemplative. Before he had that casual smile of his once more towards his cup that Mihawk can spot as faulty from meters away.

"She wanted to learn to sing. A proper schooling. To achieve her dream. So we left her where she could."

Mihawk skimmed his eyes over Akagami, frowning.

"...is that so?"

"It's what is best." Akagami stated, a tone of finality.

Mihawk stared, before closing his eyes and taking a sip of his drink he managed to fill himself as they conversed.

"Than it is." Akagami shot him a grateful look that Mihawk didn't care for. The Worlds Greatest Swordsman knows when to accept words as they are. Even if he himself would never see the bright little girl with a powerful voice who would pout up at the swordsman to leave her family. Mihawk rose his cup above a hint. "A price to pay," Mihawk echoed Akagami's words.

Akagami smiled goodnaturedly, a flash of pain before grinning and tipping their cups together.

"A price to pay."

They both swung their cups back. It was silent for a moment before Akagami let out a whine.

"The East Blue sucks."

"Quite."

Akagami's jaw slacked at his dryness, before guffawing. Mihawk briefly contemplated to shut him up with Yoru. He sufficed with a glare of distaste that bounced off Akagami's head.

"You're such a jokester, Takanome!"

.

.

.

**Kamisori: literally meaning "Razor": A combination of Geppo and Soryu, where one uses Soryu in a zigzag motion in midair, allowing extremely fast movements in three dimensions. Other CP9 agents have also shown to use this technique or a similar one allowing them to move through the air at great speed. Can be used for Kamisori to cut through enemies while utilizing its high-speed movements.

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A lot happened!

SB still trying to become someone she can accept. Or someone that was like before CP9. (You keep thinking of them despite how much you seemed to "hate" them. 🧐)

SB couldn't see Usopp at all due to how dark it was and the hood was determined to block the majority of her vision due to how big it was. But I wrote in the edited version a throw away like that he seemed or senses familiar before SB got distracted from whatever was happening as she first met the Straw Hats.

Sakazuki is there. It means something.

I love Garp. A lot. 💗

Shanks has plans? 🧐 Mihawk suspicious or paranoid? Who knows?

Mihawk seems positive of what Shanks and SB's relationship is. Even if Shanks doesn't seem to agree with it...? 🤔 What's up with that promise anyways?

Also, you have a bad habit of getting excited and just doing things without pausing and having a plan.

The adventure of trying to find Mihawk's island without knowing the name starts next chapter!

In addition, thanks to RinkuKaur who conversed with me as to how a powerful man like Shanks with Haki could've lost his arm to a mere Sea King. Simply perhaps that his Observation Haki showed him ever possible future of where he would kill or injure the Sea King somehow resulting in Luffy's death so a sacrifice of an arm was the only way that Shanks had to quickly decide to stick with. 

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VOTES~

Main Pairings
Shanks: 191
Mihawk: 174
Crocodile:70
Doflamingo: 69
Smoker: 83
Lucci: 67

Side Pairings
Kaku: 18
Paulie: 8
Buggy: 14

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FANART CORNER

(AND FAN VIDEO CORNER?!?! AFKLJSKSJSKAAKJAKA!!!!)

By @Jo_h3e on Wattpad and Discord

By @Rad on Discord

Male! SB

By @Wonton on Discord

I can't show the three fan videos they made here!! 😭😭😭 Just believe they were amazing and fulfilled my dream of someone making an AMV for Strong.

By @Eat babies trust me on Discord

By @Gummy on Discord

By @Ect00 on Discord

By Hamfie

Also, another drawing based on this: