Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The clearing was dark, pitch black even, but Shanks and Buggy made their way through the darkness without much hassle. The problem was sneaking Buggy away from his new 'Buggy's Delivery' organisation. He had a lot of fans.

“Do you know how hard it is to sneak away from my crew now?” Buggy huffed.

Shanks grinned. “You seem to have found a loyal bunch.”

“They all seem to think I'm some insanely strong freak,” Buggy groaned. “It's useful for me, but I swear they're going to get me killed with their overconfidence of me.”

“You do have an escape route already sorted though, right?” Shanks asked.

“Duh, I'm not crazy,” Buggy huffed.

“And if you ever need help I'll always come-”

Buggy sighed. “I know, Shanks.”

“Your situation has gotten a lot more complicated, Buggy,” Shanks said, his brow furrowing. “If any of them find out you're a head witch they'll stop at nothing from abusing your powers at best, at worst, you'll be enslaved or get a one way ticket to Mariejois.”

Buggy winced. “I know. It's only those I trust who know. Cabaji, Mohji and Richie.”

“Just please be careful,” Shanks pleaded.

“That's coming from you? Wonders will never cease.” Buggy snorted, as they arrived at the end of the clearing, where the ritual stones had been set up.

Sanji was sat in the centre of them, meditating, while Hakuto stood by his side. They were all on Tomoboshi island, almost two years after Marineford. The kid had grown up a lot, Buggy could feel that his magical energy had grown a lot since then. It had been years since he had seen Sanji. He used to see him all the time in East Blue when he visited the Baratie for dinner, but then Buggy had left East Blue, apparently at the exact same time as Zeff's little Eggplant did.

Not so little now though.

“Hello, Buggy,” Sanji greeted, opening his eyes. “I wasn't sure if you'd get here in time.”

“Thankfully I had some help,” Buggy said, nodding to Shanks.

Sanji startled. “You're-”

Shanks smiled. “Don't mind me. I was never here.”

Sanji and Hakuto shared a look, but nodded.

“Alright, well we know what we're both here for,” Sanji sighed. “I'm finally ready to help you bring Rouge-san back from the dead. My magic has grown over the years.”

“I felt it,” Buggy said. “For somebody who rarely used spells before, you've gotten pretty far in your grimoire now, haven't you?”

Sanji grinned. “I haven't been wasting these two years doing nothing. I've learned a lot of spells, and how to improve my cooking through them.”

“Good to hear.” Buggy smiled, then approached one side of the ritual stones, while Sanji headed for the other. “Alright, I'll lead the spell, can you follow my lead?”

Sanji nodded. “Ready whenever you are.”

Buggy raised his hands and tapped deep into his magic. It flowed through him gently, as familiar as the back of his hands. “I summon the ghost of Portgas D. Rouge, bound to this earth by the blood of her son. Come to us, and fight once more, to save Portgas D. Ace, as you have done before.”

Sanji's magic flowed into the ritual stones, following the path Buggy's had already formed. The air was heavy, and warm, and Buggy could see the ritual stones beginning to glow. The clouds above them darkened, and Buggy could feel a storm brewing. He caught Shanks' grinning out of the corner of his eye as rain began to pour down, the wind picking up.

It looked like the weather was just as excited to see Rouge was they were then. Buggy couldn't help but snort at that. Bloody Portgas' and their elements. Storms just couldn't help but love them.

“We summon you, Portgas D. Rouge, and I know you're there, I can feel you, so hurry up and get yourself over here,” Buggy complained. “I'm getting soaked here.”

The stones flashed, blinding them all, and Buggy grinned.

It worked.

“Yeah, yeah, hold your horses.” Rouge's voice complained. “I had a bunch of nosy old ghost witches telling me not to be too reckless this time.”

The blinding lights died down, and Buggy's and Sanji's magic slipped away from the ritual stones, settling back within themselves. The skies kept raining down on them, but the winds gradually eased off, and the rain became pleasant once more.

“Apparently I'm not supposed to have over a hundred nature witches trying to revive me.” Rouge rolled her eyes. “Just because nobody has done it before, doesn't mean we can't attempt it. Jeez, bunch of whiners.”

Buggy grinned. “Good to see you again.”

“It's good to see you, Blue, and you too, Red.” Rouge grinned, then smiled warmly at Sanji. “And thank you, brother, for all your help.”

“It was no problem at all, Rouge-san.” Sanji beamed.

“So, who wants to catch me up on what happened these past two years?” Rouge asked.

“As soon as you tell us what happened to you.” Buggy crossed his arms.

Rouge grimaced. “That is a little bit more complicated to explain, but let's just say somebody banished me to the afterlife.”

“Someone?”

Rouge's frown deepened. “The shadow from our dreams.”

Both Sanji and Buggy paled.

“It's real?” Buggy cried.

“And it's in Mariejois?” Sanji gasped.

“And Ace is with it,” Rouge said sharply.

Shanks frowned. “The same shadow you've all kept seeing in your visions is actually real and with Ace in Mariejois right now?”

“I'd assume so, unless Ace is out of Mariejois?” Rouge tilted her head.

“Not that we've heard of.” Sanji shook his head.

“Dammit.”

“Let's go have a catch up, Rouge,” Shanks said. “We have a lot to talk about.”

“Yeah. I'd love to hear what I've missed.”

Chapter Text

The past two years had been a strange time for the Heart Pirates. Penguin had been so relieved that they had managed to reunite with Law a month after Marineford and find out how he had been officially declared as a Warlord. Law hadn't been allowed to leave Marineford (the new one in the New World) for six months, and was ordered to make daily reports when he had been allowed to leave afterwards. The Rocky Port incident had gotten them into a fair bit of trouble sadly, but Law handed over one hundred pirate hearts in order to ease that tension out, and stayed in Marineford for another six months. It had been such a pain in the ass, but at least it meant Law got to spend time with Rosinante, Kuzan and Sengoku. Rosinante was a great guy, and now that Sengoku was retired, he was pretty good too. Kuzan however had gotten a bit more cranky now as the Fleet Admiral.

Not that Penguin entirely blamed him.

Akainu had a lot of followers of Absolute Justice, who were pretty pissed that Lazy Justice had 'taken over', but there wasn't much they could do about it after Portgas D. Rouge had planted her swords in Akainu's face when he tried to murder Monkey D. Luffy. A tragedy, really.

Penguin knocked on the door to Law's room, where he was once again on the snail, looking annoyed.

“Ice-ya, these daily reports are getting tedious at best,” Law complained. “I don't have much to report today other than sailing on the sea, which is what I did yesterday, and the day before that. The only interesting thing is that we made land, but that's about it.”

“Well we both know what your contract says,” Kuzan sighed. “If you don't follow it to the letter, you're going to get into trouble with the World Government, have your title as a Warlord revoked, and then we'll be back to hunting you down again.”

Penguin sat the coffee down and frowned when he caught sight of more snow on his jacket. Penguin brushed it off.

“Don't put snow on my floor,” Law complained.

“Snow?” Kuzan asked.

“We're somewhere frozen right now,” Law said. “I'm not entirely sure what island it is, but-”

“Captain!” Shachi screeched. “A samurai is attacking us!”

“A samurai?”

“And now I've got to go,” Law said. “What the fuck is a samurai doing on a frozen island?”

“Be careful, Law,” Kuzan said.

“I'll be fine,” Law reassured, then hung up. He grabbed his coffee on the way, along with his jacket. Penguin followed after his heels.

“This island is insane, Bepo said the skies were different,” Penguin said.

“Different how?” Law frowned.

“The skies are split in half, one looks like it's hot in temperature, while the other cold,” Penguin explained as they left the Polar Tang.

Huh, there really was a samurai attacking them. Ikkaku just stabbed him from behind.

“A woman stabbed me?!” the samurai cried. “How shameful!”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean, you shithead!” Shachi snarled.

Law raised his hand. “Room.”

He then proceeded to cut the man to pieces and send his body parts across the island.

“What a weirdo,” Penguin complained.

“It's too cold, Captain!” Shachi whined.

“Yeah, why couldn't we go to a resort?” Ikkaku huffed. “We're no longer wanted criminals after all. We should be able to go somewhere nice where I can have a spa day.”

“Yeah!” Shachi agreed.

“I didn't think it was that cold. I thought it was kinda nice here. It reminds me of North Blue,” Bepo said.

“You're a polar bear!” Shachi yelled. “Of course you'd be fine!”

“I'm sorry.” Bepo hung his head.

“Too weak willed!” Penguin and Shachi yelled.

Law smirked. “Bepo, you wanted to check out why this island was so strange, right?”

“That's why we're here?” Shachi groaned. “Can't we just leave this as a mystery island and go somewhere nice?”

“There's a large building in all that snow,” Jean Bart said, his brow furrowed. “It looks like a factory.”

“Maybe it's warm in there!” Shachi crossed his arms, shivering.

Law sighed. “Yeah, my coffee froze over.”

That was a shame.

“Why did you bring it out with you anyway?” Penguin raised a brow.

“I really wanted some coffee...”

“Let's go raid the factory then,” Ikkaku said. “Maybe we'll get lucky.”

They, in fact, did not get lucky.

.::.

“How did this end with you fighting Vice Admiral Smoker?” Ikkaku groaned.

“I don't know. I just wanted coffee!” Law yelled.

“I'm just here for Straw Hat!” Smoker snapped.

“Fuck off then!” Shachi screamed. “Law swapped some them about and they ran off!”

“Why did you swap them?” Penguin asked.

“...Revenge...”

“For two years ago?!” Shachi cried.

“Every time I see them more marines get involved!” Law complained.

“He's got a point...” Penguin admitted.

“If you don't want them getting in your way anymore, then let me arrest them,” Smoker growled. “You know how much trouble you'll be in for going against me, Trafalgar. You're a Warlord, that status protects you from being sent straight to Mariejois, but if Aokiji catches on that your being disobedient he'll have you recaptured again and sent there for good this time.”

Law rolled his eyes. “Your problem is that you don't know how much the Straw Hats have grown over the last two years. They wouldn't have come back unless they made a lot of progress, not after Straw Hat lost his older brother to Blackbeard then Mariejois.”

“Your crew was the one who rescued Straw Hat when he was dying!” Smoker snapped.

“We were held hostage by Marco the Phoenix,” Shachi lied.

“Yeah, it wasn't like we were going to tell him 'no',” Penguin said.

“I literally heard you tell him to take Straw Hat to your ship!” Smoker bristled.

“You need to clean your ears,” Shachi insisted. “We never said that.”

“Liars!”

Law smirked. “Should I check out your hearing, Smoker-ya? I'm a doctor after all.”

“Shut it, Trafalgar!”

“GAAAAAHHHHH!”

Law paused, then cursed and ducked beneath Smoker's jitte. “Why are Clione and Bepo screaming? Where did they go?”

“Inside!” Shachi yelped, scrambling from the door as Clione and Bepo came charging out, tears in their eyes.

“They have frozen dead people in there!” Clione sobbed. “It so gross!”

“We have organs aboard our ship and that is what freaks you out?” Penguin groaned.

“I'm sorry.” Bepo deflated.

“And where exactly did Ikkaku and Uni go?” Law complained. “Jeez, you guys need to stop rushing off!”

“They went the other way past the creepy dead bodies!” Clinoe wailed.

Law groaned.

“Well, Trafalgar?” Smoker smirked. “Going to keep fighting me?”

“No, I'm just going to swap out your heart instead.”

“What-”

.::.

Okay, Penguin had to admit, the base was creepy. No wonder the Straw Hats and the kids had been screaming hysterically. If Penguin didn't live with Law, he would think the dead bodies in ice were terrifying too. Bepo and Clione were clinging to each other, or well, Clione was clinging to Bepo's back, while Bepo tried to cower beneath him. Shachi was poking at the ice thoughtfully.

“Wonder how long these guys have been here for?” Shachi mused.

“Who knows?” Penguin shrugged. “I'm more worried that we're on Punk Hazard. Shouldn't we all be poisoned right about now by that deadly gas?”

“It looks like something else is happening instead,” Law said, tilting his head when Ikkaku and Uni finally returned to them, Ikkaku holding a bunch of files.

“We swiped them,” she said cheerfully, handing them over.

Law began to read through them and couldn't help but chuckle.

“Interesting. Caesar Clown is here, and he's a subordinate of Joker.” Law grinned sharply.

“Uh oh,” Shachi groaned. “Doflamingo is involved in this?”

“What are you plotting, Law?” Jean Bart raised a brow.

“Doflamingo needs to be dealt with sooner or later, otherwise I'll be his prisoner soon enough. He wants me for both my abilities as a witch head, and for my devil fruit,” Law said. “We all know in New World you either have to join a powerful ally, or become powerful and take the fight to them. So how about we ally with Straw Hat-ya and use Caesar to take down Doflamingo and bring Kaido's wrath upon him?”

“You thought of that way too fast.” Ikkaku shook her head.

“It's just a rough idea for now to be honest,” Law admitted. “And I'm worried about all of you. If Doflamingo gets a hold of any of you and uses you against me, I'd have no choice but to obey him-”

“Don't even start.” Penguin scowled, jabbing him in the chest with his finger. “We're not leaving you alone, especially not with the Straw Hats.”

“We grew up during our teens in Luffy's company too,” Shachi said. “And we all know what he's like. He'll do whatever he wants, no matter the consequences. Hell, we've been in their company only a few times, and it's almost gotten you taken from us forever!”

“I-” Law tried.

“We lost you for a month,” Ikkaku said, her face dark. “After Marineford. We didn't know if we would ever see you again, Law, and that was all because of the Straw Hat's actions back in Sabaody.”

Law grimaced. “I choose to go with him to Impel Down.”

“Which you spent half the time unconscious and suffering from a witch fever,” Ikkaku said sharply, her eyes burning. “You could have died down there, and none of would have known what happened to you.”

“And when we finally saw you again in Marineford, Kuzan took you from us while you were healing Luffy, because he tried to go back for Ace instead of continuing to run,” Penguin said softly, not looking at him.

“And we could only watch helplessly as Kuzan froze you.” Shachi's fists clenched.

“Cora-san said you were unconscious for three weeks after that...” Bepo said, lowering his head.

“So don't ask us to leave you again,” Penguin said sharply. “We won't. I like Luffy, he's always been a good kid, but I can't trust him with our safety after all the reckless crap he's done. Ally with him all you want, Law, but we'll be there to make sure you return to the Polar Tang safely afterwards.”

Law didn't know what to say to any of that. He had known they had all been upset, especially after a month apart, but Law had to admit, he didn't know it was this bad.

“I don't want to lose any of you...” Law said weakly. “Not after what happened in Flevance... I don't know if I could take it...”

“And we can't take losing you,” Ikkaku said mournfully. “That month without you was hell for us. So please, never make us go through that again.”

“You're our friend, Law, mine, Bepo's and Shachi's oldest friend,” Penguin said. “You've saved us all from horrible situations in the past, because you're strong, so let us be strong for you too.”

Law sighed, defeated. Everyone was staring so determinedly at him, and Law knew he would have a mutiny on his hands if he kept protesting their help. He'd actually be held hostage by his own crew.

Law sighed and smiled. “Alright, you all win.”

Of course the dorks all started cheering at that.

Chapter Text

Marco stared blankly, as did all the other Whitebeard Pirates at Portgas D. Rouge. Yes, they had been told by Shanks that he had gathered some head witches together to try bring back Rouge's ghost a month ago. But Marco hadn't exactly expected her to come strolling out of her bedroom at the start of lunch, yawning into her hand.

She must have teleported into her bedroom without anyone noticing.

“Y'know, glad you kept my ritual summons about in my room,” Rouge said, without even a word of greeting to them. “It made it so much handier to get back here.”

“Guarararara, you brat!” Pops threw his head back and laughed.

Rouge grinned. “It's good to see you're still kicking about, Eddy.”

“That Trafalgar brat healed a lot of the damage my body had taken throughout the years during the war to get Thatch back home,” Pops said as Thatch came sprinting out the kitchen.

“Rouge?!” Thatch yelled.

“Hey-” she began, but yelped when he yanked her into a hug. Rouge stared wide eyed at him for a long while, then softened and wrapped her arms around him. “Hello, Thatch,” she greeted more softly.

“I'm sorry-” he choked out.

“Don't you dare,” she chided gently, lightly smacking the back of his head, which for her was surprisingly very gentle. “We were trying to save Ace together, remember? It's not your fault I couldn't help anymore.”

“We both know you did most of the fighting that day,” Thatch said weakly.

“Fuck off, you kept Ace away from me. I only had to hit him once and that was painful enough as it was,” Rouge argued. “And remember when you blew the Blackbeards up with your flour? That was fucking awesome.”

Thatch snorted weakly, but Marco saw the flash of a smile light up his face briefly. “Yeah, that was pretty cool.”

“And when you slashed Teach's back,” Rouge said, chuckling.

“I'm just glad I managed to pierce a lung before he absorbed me with his darkness,” Thatch said. “I was so close to stabbing his heart with my other sword, but he's surprisingly quick.”

“We'll gut him next time,” Rouge said, pulling back from the hug and holding out her hand. “Right, Thatch?”

Thatch nodded and shook her hand. “Count me in.”

Rouge's face faltered as she looked over Thatch, and Marco grimaced. His deal with Davy Jones had still not been fulfilled. Thatch had not rested properly, even now that he was home. He was pale, his hair limp and tied behind his back, no longer styled properly. There were shadows under his eyes, and he looked exhausted all the time.

Rouge grabbed his face and pulled him close, pressing a kiss against his forehead. Thatch startled, breathing in sharply, and Marco saw a healing spell glow gently over Thatch, before the magic sunk into him.

“Ace has gotten stronger in his magical capabilities,” Rouge mused as she stepped back, grinning. “I shouldn't have been able to heal you so easily bound to him again.”

Thatch bit his lip and Marco saw the tears spring to his eyes. “Ace...”

Haruta sobbed softly from beside Marco, her lips trembling. “He's okay?” she asked shakily.

Rouge shrugged. “How should I know?”

“WHY WOULD YOU SAY THAT THEN?” Haruta screeched. “I THOUGHT YOU KNEW WHAT HE WAS GOING THROUGH!”

“Rahahahahaha!”

“WHY ARE YOU LAUGHING?!” Haruta shook her shoulders. “WHAT THE HELL, ROUGE?!”

Pops eyed her oddly, and Rouge glanced back at him and grinned.

“I met Roger again,” Rouge said. “He told me a lot.”

Pops' eyes widened. “You...”

“Joy Boy will be back soon enough,” Rouge sang teasingly, her eyes bright. “And I'm excited for it.”

“Who is Joy Boy?” Thatch cried. “What about Ace?”

“Ace will be fine,” Rouge said, stretching out her arms lazily. “Besides, there's a plan going on that will lead us to getting him back.” She smiled as she turned on her heel to face Pops properly, and then smirked. “I know about your alliance with Dragon.”

“Guarararara, you visited him first, you cheeky brat!”

Rouge laughed. “I did indeed.”

Marco smirked. “We've been looking forward to the Reverie for a long time, Rouge, ever since you gave us that idea two years ago yoi.”

“Rahahahaha, I'm so glad I was brought back in time,” Rouge said. “So, wanna tell me what's been going on with your lot? I can feel there's a lot less Whitebeard Pirates on this ship.”

Marco shared a grimace with Pops. “Teach,” Marco offered.

Rouge frowned. “Well, guess you better start from the beginning.”

.::.

Ikkaku glowered at Law. Law grimaced. She did not want to ally with these dumb assholes with five second attention spans. Like Luffy and Nami (in Franky's body) even almost forgot to bring the raccoon thing back with him to the Straw Hat encampment. Law was the one who picked him up!

Well, on the bright side, at least most of the Straw Hats were themselves again. Poor Nami was crying because she was now in Sanji's body, much to Ikkaku's and Penguin's amusement. Penguin, Ikkaku and Bepo had remained by Law's side while the others fished for information inside the base.

“Isn't there anything you could do about this?” Nami pleaded to Law.

“Sorry, but without your body here I can't switch you back,” Law said.

Nami hung her head and groaned. Ikkaku had to admit, she was actually being pretty reasonable about this. Ikkaku would probably have tried to strangle Law by now.

“So what's up with all these kids?” Penguin asked, jerking his head at them.

Yeah, why did the Straw Hats have a bunch of giant, chained up children sleeping in their camp? It was kind of weird, even for them.

“They've been drugged by Caesar Clown,” Chopper said from his spot on the ground, lying there limply.

“Shit, Captain-” Ikkaku began.

Law sighed. “Can't we just forget about them for now?”

“No!” Ikkaku scowled.

“Fine, we'll see what information we can find out about them,” Law said.

“I just want to take them back to their homes, but they are still recovering from the drug withdrawals, and they are so big...” Chopper said, frowning heavily.

“So the drug is to turn them into giants,” Penguin mused. “That's been a project the government have been working on for a very long time now.”

“The government?” Robin startled. “Why?”

“Military might, possibly,” Law replied.

“Yeah, imagine what having hundreds of giants on your side can do for you.” Penguin shivered. “Scary thought.”

Law sighed. “I knew the moment I started this alliance things were going to turn out this way, still, I was hoping I wouldn't be dragged into your troubles so soon, Luffy-ya.”

“Then why do we have to do it?” Ikkaku grumbled.

“So we can beat up the flamingo!” Luffy grinned. “Right, Law?”

“A flamingo?” the Straw Hats echoed.

“Doflamingo!” Law snapped, earning a yelp. “And yes, he is apart of the plan.”

“Finally!” Luffy cheered. “I've been waiting for this for years. Shishishishi, we'll kick his ass, Traffy!”

“How do you two even know each other?” Usopp asked. “Aren't you from North Blue, Law?”

“We never actually really asked much about that back in Water 7, did we?” Nami mused.

“Yeah, Luffy was raised with us for a time when they ran away from East Blue,” Penguin explained. “We found him in the middle of the ocean tied to a flamingo float.”

“WHAT?!” Usopp choked.

“Rouge's form of training him,” Penguin sighed. “I think she just got fed up of being pestered by him to be honest.”

Luffy grinned.

“That's not something to be proud of!” Penguin complained.

“As in Hibiscus Rouge?” Usopp gulped. “The crazy woman who invaded Mariejois? She was terrifying back in Alabasta!”

“Shishishishi, yeah, she raised us! Ace's mum is great.” Luffy beamed.

“Chopper is the ship's doctor right?” Law eyed him, then grimaced. “And you can't move right now...”

“We could tie him to your hat-” Usopp suggested.

Law rolled his eyes, and instead put Chopper in a backpack that he handed over to Ikkaku.

“That feels like kidnapping,” Usopp admitted.

“It's either that or I'm tying him to my sword,” Law said. “Caesar will end up coming to look for these kids, since they seem to be apart of some giant experiment he's working on. According to the files my crew found earlier, Caesar is a logia user of the gas gas fruit with a three hundred million beli bounty on his head. He will stop at nothing to kill us all to keep this island a secret, so be careful. Any without haki shouldn't go up against him.”

“The ones with haki on my crew are me, Zoro and Sanji,” Luffy said. “And then there is you, the bear, Penguin and whale right?”

“Ikkaku and Jean Bart too, but he's guarding the ship,” Law said. “The others aren't yet. Ikkaku also uses seastone daggers, so I'm not worried about her too much.”

“Damn right.” Ikkaku grinned.

“So we're going to kidnap the clown while you go look for a way to cure the kids?” Luffy asked.

“Yeah.” Law nodded.

“Why are we kidnapping him though?” Franky asked.

“Money?” Usopp offered.

“But I thought this guy was the boss here.” Nami frowned.

“We're not doing it for money,” Law said. “Just to raise some havoc.”

“But there's no point in figuring out the rest of the details until we've got him,” Penguin said. “Our plans will be useless without him after all, and then we'll have to figure out something else.”

“But be warned, as soon as Caesar Clown is kidnapped, things will begin to move, whether we like it or not,” Law warned. “There will be no turning back. Luffy, this is your last chance to reconsider.”

Luffy grinned. “That's okay. We're with you.”

“Then we'll help each other out,” Law said. “You'll need to convince the rest of your crew.”

“Will do.” Luffy nodded, his grin brightening. “I'm so excited! We'll get the flamingo for sure!”

“What flamingo are you talking about?” Usopp cried.

“Why are we beating up a flamingo?” Nami groaned. “What did this bird do to you, Luffy?”

.::.

“I have to admit, I can see why Sanji gets distracted so easily now,” Nami admitted, shaking her head. “Every time it grows quiet, I can feel this calling in my head.”

Usopp frowned. “Is it really that bad?”

Nami nodded. “I don't know how he can think through it all the time.”

“I'm honestly surprised he doesn't have a fever,” Penguin said. “You guys couldn't have been out of Sabaody that long.”

“Thankfully the witches he was with for the past two years managed to give him potions to counteract that,” Nami said. “Chopper said he had been waiting for it too, but Sanji never collapsed. He did feel ill and tired, but it wasn't as bad as what we were told Ace went through.”

Bepo and Penguin had stayed behind to help Nami and Usopp with the kids, and to protect them from Caesar if he showed up. Hopefully not since Luffy's group should be handling him, but Penguin hadn't wanted to take any chances with these poor kids. Ikkaku had Law's back anyway. She'd gut an asshole with her seastone daggers if they tried to hurt him.

“What's even more confusing though is that Robin and Brook weren't affected at all...” Nami admitted, her brow furrowing, or well, Sanji's brow. “Only Sanji. He had brought spare potions for them too, but neither of them felt ill at all.”

Usopp frowned. “But they are both witches, Robin's was of the Death Clan, which is so creepy, and Brook was of the Illusion Clan. Brook was a head witch too when he died.”

“Maybe it is because he died?” Penguin offered. “As for Robin though, I have no answers there. She should have collapsed with a fever, right? Unless it doesn't happen to head witches? What age is she now? Over thirty?”

“Could be that then, she's thirty exactly,” Usopp said.

“Um, the kids...” Bepo said warily.

Shit, they were awake and squirming again. Penguin grimaced. Usopp's sleep attack wasn't working anymore either.

“I really don't want to have to hit some kids,” Penguin complained.

“What do you mean hit them?” Nami (in Sanji's body) hissed.

“I'm sorry...” Bepo hung his head.

The kids started backing them up into a corner of their hide out. Penguin grimaced. This wasn't good. Their whimpers of pain were starting to turn angry too. Not that Penguin blamed them, they had been drugged after all and were going through withdrawal. It was like taking coffee away from Law.

Not a pretty sight.

“Bepo, I think we're going to have to knock them out,” Penguin said. “But be gentle.”

“Aye, aye!”

“What do you mean knock them out?!” Nami cried. “We can't hurt them.”

“It's for their own good!” Penguin snapped. “They big ones are breaking their chains, and the others are already throwing shit at us! If we get caught by them, we'll be murdered!”

“Shirororororo.”

Penguin froze, horrified, as he turned around. Shit, Caesar Clown was here. Where the fuck was Luffy? Was he okay? The kids began cheering for their Master, all delighted, while Caesar Clown smirked at them, holding a bag of 'candy'.

“It's time to come home, kids,” Caesar said. “Come and get your candy.”

Chapter Text

Okay, it had been so far so good. Law and Ikkaku had dropped Chopper off in the labs to search it, while Law and Ikkaku gathered more information on the base. The others were still sneaking around, according to their last call, trying to find out more information on SAD and the drugs the kids were taking, but so far not much yet. It was hard sneaking around with all these guards patrolling about.

Now the problem was Law and Ikkaku had ran into someone deadly. Very deadly.

“It's been years. You have grown up a lot, Law.”

Law grimaced. “Vergo...”

“Vergo-san,” Vergo corrected.

Law drew Kikoku from her sheath.

“Do not be reckless, Law.” Vergo raised his hand from behind his back. “Observe.”

Law could see a man being pulled out from the shadows. Law inhaled sharply. Uni hung limply from Vergo's hand by his boiler suit, bloodied and beaten. Shit, he was unconscious.

No. No. No. No. No. This was what Law had been terrified of. He knew they were going to get killed following him like this.

“Shit,” Ikkaku hissed beside him.

“Your crew mate is still alive, and you can keep it that way by behaving yourself,” Vergo said. “Honestly, Law, did you really think he would have no idea that you had arrived here?”

“When did you get here, Vergo?” Law frowned, lowering Kikoku.

He had to do something. Anything to get Uni out of this. Ikkaku bit her lip but lowered her daggers too. They needed to be careful here. Any wrong move could lead to Uni's execution by Vergo's hands, and Law knew how bloody that would be. He knew how ruthless Vergo was...

“I just arrived from Dressrosa. I got a ride in a SAD Tanker that was about to leave. It was the right move.”

“The right move?” Law scowled. “How did I cause you guys any harm? I just arrived here today!”

“No, if you had all your crew mates would be dead right now, and you would have been punished severely,” Vergo said. “You can't fool grown ups, Law.”

“Then I guess I should just finish you off now!” Law swung Kikoku the same time he said it.

Vergo caught her and winced at the wave of anger flooding from her blade. Ikkaku dived in, tearing Uni from his grasp. Law opened up a room and teleported them both away, but before he could get out of there himself Vergo's haki covered bamboo stick slammed right against the side of his head. Law yelped and stumbled, his vision blurring as his room dropped. Fuck-

He tried to keep himself awake, but everything began to black out as he hit the floor. Dammit, he forgot Vergo could swing that hard. He could feel blood already trailing down his head.

“I thought I already told you,” Vergo said. “It's Vergo-san to you, Law.”

Law lost consciousness after that.

.::.

Vergo knelt down and picked up Law, slinging him over his shoulder. He'd get the brat chained up and ready to deliver back to Doffy. The boy was lucky. He should feel honoured that Doffy still wanted him returned to him instead of executed for his betrayal. Law was Doffy's witch, and belonged at his side, and would have been there today if it hadn't been for that traitorous bastard Rosinante.

If they were lucky, Law's capture would be the perfect bait the lure in that traitorous fool. That way he could finally be dealt with.

.::.

Robin watched as a tall suited man laid Law down on the couch across from their prison cell. Law was unconscious too. So far she was the only one awake, the others were still unconscious and they were all chained with seastone. Although she had gotten it even worse. There was a gag in her mouth, probably because she was a head witch. That was annoying, but they were smart enough to stop her from using any spells, so Robin could applaud them for that. She remained still and quiet, hoping nobody would notice she was awake just yet. She might be able to learn some information.

“So he is our runaway witch?” a green haired woman mused, walking up to the suited man.

“Yes, Trafalgar Law. He will be returned home soon enough,” the man said. “And punished for running away.”

Robin frowned. Running away?

The green woman smiled. “How scary, Vergo-san.”

“For now we'll be keeping him here until I'm ready to go,” Vergo said. “We've just got to make sure all the loose ends are tied off first.”

The green haired woman chuckled. “What will the Young Master do with our troublemaker?”

“Make sure he'll never be able to leave again.” Vergo glanced down at Law, but he was still out, slumped against the couch. “And perhaps if we're lucky, he will lure in that traitorous former Corazon.”

A traitorous Corazon? Robin tried to recall the name, but she couldn't think of it. Whatever was going on here, it looked like Law had quite a few deep ties to it. Robin frowned thoughtfully. Was this all to do with that flamingo Luffy kept going on about? The one he wanted to beat up with Law?

She didn't know. The last time she had seen Law as a child, they had been in Flevance. He had been under the protection of Portgas D. Rouge. None of these people had been with him. Was he under her protection from more than just the World Government? Had she been protecting him from this flamingo too?

Robin supposed Rouge didn't really matter now in this case. She wasn't here. Portgas D. Rouge hadn't been seen since she had set fire to Mariejois and set over a hundred slaves free. Sabo had screeched something fierce at the newspaper when they had all seen that article.

“I bet the Young Master would love to see the traitor,” the woman chuckled.

“Yes, especially if he can kill him in front of Law, that would be the perfect punishment for them both,” Vergo said, heading out the room. The green haired woman followed him out.

Their voices grew further and further away until Robin couldn't hear them anymore. Robin grimaced and shifted her legs, letting Franky's head rest in her lap easier. Smoker (in Tashigi's body) was beginning to come around, as was Tashigi (in Smoker's body). Luffy and Franky were both still out.

“Nico, you've been gagged?” Smoker frowned, cursing as he sat up, leaning up against the wall. “Tsk, that would make sense. A shame they were smart enough to do that, but it doesn't look like they gagged Trafalgar. We might get lucky if he wakes up before anybody comes back.”

Luffy stirred, groaning softly as he shook his head. “We're all captured?” he moaned, looking around. “Ah, Robin, they gagged you? They're mean!” Luffy huffed, then grinned when he spotted Smoker. “Smokey, you're here too?”

“Tsk.” Smoker scowled.

Luffy's eyes widened when he saw Law, still unconscious on the couch. “Ah, and Traffy's here too! Traffy, wake up!”

Law didn't move, not even so much as stirred. Robin's attention was on the doorway, where the woman stood, giggling. Vergo approached from behind her, eyeing them all.

“You all look better than I thought,” Vergo said.

“The traitorous Vergo,” Smoker growled. “You used to be the head of G-5 until it was found out that you were a spy. You escaped before we could apprehend you.”

Vergo ignored him and sat down next to Law's feet, who laid still on the couch. Luffy frowned, watching him closely, but Vergo didn't do anything to Law. Probably because he was still out for now. The green haired woman sat out a cup and poured some tea into it, serving it to Vergo as she answered the den den mushi.

“All the shutters are closed!” a man reported.

“Okay.” The woman nodded, and hung up. “It looks like they are moving ahead with the preparations. Poor Navy soldiers.”

“What is Caesar up to, Monet?” Vergo asked.

“Well, I don't know exactly, but he woke up his pet Smiley so I think he must be planning something big.” Monet smiled. “It looks like it'll be a dangerous one.” She tilted her head. “By the way, Vergo-san, did you eat a hamburger this morning?”

Vergo paused, lowering his cup. “How did you know? It's my favourite.”

“You have some leftover on the side of your mouth,” Monet chuckled.

Much to Robin's surprise, Vergo actually plucked it off his cheek and began munching on it.

“I would like to see this experiment before I take Law and go,” Vergo said. “Everyone will die out there?”

“You're not allowed to take Traffy anywhere!” Luffy protested. “Don't steal my friend!”

“Probably, but you will be safe in here,” Monet said, ignoring Luffy.

“Oi, Vergo!” Smoker yelled. “They are all Navy soldiers of G-5 out there! Your old subordinates! Are you just going to leave them to die out there?”

“Yeah, I think so. It's not like any of them ever meant a thing to me,” Vergo said, as he stood up and approached their cell. “Anyway, I can't believe there are such big names all packed in one cell. I like the view.”

It did bring back some memories of when Luffy and Smoker had been Robin's prisoners back in Alabasta. A shame she couldn't comment on it with the stupid gag in her mouth though. They were spoiling the fun.

“Smoker-san, I don't know what to do with this feeling right now...” Tashigi said, shaking on the floor.

Smoker's face hardened. “You were right and it is the worst case scenario. Caesar abducted those kids, and then Vergo must still have a connection that covered it up as accidents at sea. I'm livid, to think I didn't smell a traitor working so close to me all this time,” Smoker bristled.

“Don't be so negative. You should praise the rat that eluded the eyes of the great 'White Chase',” Vergo said. “My poor subordinate has been on high alert since you transferred to G-5. It will be good to relieve him of that stress. Vice Admiral Smoker, Captain Tashigi, you two will die here to keep your mouths shut forever, while Caesar handles the soldiers outside. It is inevitable. This is Joker's precious territory. I can't let those who learn things about his place walk freely. Don't worry, it will be processed accordingly. You will all die by an accident at sea.”

“Vergo!” Smoker snarled.

“Who is Joker?” Luffy tilted his head. “That's not the flamingo.”

Robin paused, seeing a slight tension in Vergo's figure. Huh, maybe it was. It was minute, but Smoker had caught on to it too, his eyes narrowing.

“Flamingo?” Smoker frowned. “Or do you mean Doflamingo?”

Vergo's frown deepened. “I suppose it doesn't entirely matter to you if you know now. You're going to die anyway.”

“Not until I beat up that flamingo!” Luffy snapped. “Oi, Traffy! Wake up already! We gotta beat up that flamingo!”

Vergo scoffed. “You? Defeat Doflamingo? Don't speak so disrespectfully. Law is just as helpless. He will be returned to Doflamingo shortly. You will never see him again.”

“Traffy!”

“There's no point in causing a fuss,” Vergo scolded. “He's been sedated for the journey home. It's a good way to keep troublesome witches from being disobedient.”

Luffy gritted his teeth. Robin grimaced at the thought. Luffy was probably thinking of Ace being taken away by Blackbeard and the World Government. Of her taken to Enies Lobby, along with Law too.

He was probably furious with how their freedom kept getting stolen away.

Chapter Text

Penguin grimaced. The kids had broken their chains and Usopp just tried to shoot a gas gas logia man with a flaming bird bullet. Not the worst idea, but it turned out that Ceasar could rip the oxygen from the air and weaken fire. Shit, Penguin hadn't expected him to be able to do that. Now they were all struggling to even breathe. They couldn't fight the bastard. Penguin dropped to his knees, as Bepo whimpered beside him. He must have done the same thing to Luffy too. They had all suffocated before they could defeat Caesar! Now Ceasar was ordering the kids to kill them for candy.

Oh great, now the kids were going to kill them. Penguin cursed, wheezing. He was going to gut the gas fucker. He swore to the seas. He'd borrow one of Ikkaku's seastone daggers and cut out Caesar's organs for this. Penguin went for his teleportation amulet, but Brownbeard started attacking Caesar out of nowhere, distracting him.

Penguin coughed and hacked, gulping down fresh air desperately and grabbed the amulet, cutting his fingers over it. Smearing his blood. Bepo grabbed a kid running by, one of the smaller ones, thank the seas for that. Ceasar hadn't noticed, too busy mocking Brownbeard about his subordinates. Nami and Usopp were running, just about to pass them, but it wouldn't work. Ceasar was going to kill them all. Penguin couldn't do anything against him ripping the oxygen out of the air like that.

He raised the amulet and teleported them all back to the Polar Tang's deck, just as Brownbeard exploded.

“What?” Nami gasped.

“That was close!” Usopp cried.

“Don't struggle!” Bepo yelled, holding the screaming child tight. “Jean Bart!”

“I'm here,” Jean Bart said, grabbing the kid.

Thank the seas they had sent him back to guard the ship with Hakugan.

“Get a sedative!” Penguin ordered Bepo sharply.

“Aye, aye!” Bepo rushed back into the ship.

They were lucky. So damn lucky.

“Where are we?” Nami frowned.

“On the Polar Tang,” Penguin said, tucking the amulet back into his pocket. It wouldn't be much use now, not after teleporting five people. “I used Law's teleportation amulet to bring us back here. It's just a shame we couldn't grab more kids, but I suppose then we wouldn't have been able to teleport them anyway.”

“Why not?” Usopp asked.

“That kind of magic has a limitation,” Nami said softly, sighing. “I guess Law's is five people with teleportation magic?”

“Eight at the most, but it also depends on the size of the person,” Penguin admitted, as Bepo returned, injecting the struggling girl with sedatives. “I'm going to get blood samples off the girl and see where we can go from there. Bepo, try get into contact with Captain. We've got to warn him about Caesar Clown. If what he said was true, Straw Hat was beaten, but if we're lucky, Luffy's been captured and can be rescued with his other crew members instead of outright murdered.”

The Straw Hats sobbed at that. Penguin threw them a sympathetic smile, because well, they all knew something like that wouldn't kill Luffy. If a bloody Admiral of the Navy couldn't two years ago, there was no way a creepy clown would manage it.

“I'm sorry, I'll go contact Captain now.”

That was when they learned from Ikkaku that Law had been captured. Again. For fucks sake. Why did witches keep having to get kidnapped all the time? Law especially! What? Were he and Ace trying to make it a competition or something? Because right now it seemed like they were at a draw!

“What the fuck...?” Ikkaku suddenly muttered. “Oi, you lot better stay on the ship. There's some poisonous giant jelly flopping around out there.”

“Jelly?” Usopp blinked.

“If any of you are coming back, you better do it now, otherwise get in the Polar Tang and sink beneath the ocean again. I'm teleporting Uni to you now. That burger bastard who took Law used Uni as a hostage against Law and I, and he's badly hurt.”

“Okay, send him here now, and tell the others to come back too if they're still running about,” Penguin ordered, glancing over at the Straw Hats. “You two better make a decision and fast. I'm going back in for my Captain.”

“Same!” Bepo yelled, then deflated. “I'm sorry...”

“We're going back in for the kids!” Nami said. “And your Captain needs to give me my body back!”

.::.

Law's head was pounding. He could hear Luffy yelling something about running? Law winced. There was some annoying guy's voice too, laughing, but Law's head was still fuzzy and it was hard to make out the words. That was some annoying laugh though. Law was lying on his side on a couch, and he could feel the chains binding his arms to his sides, and tying his wrists together. He shifted them carefully, but they didn't budge even an inch. Law paused when he heard footsteps approach him, and groaned in protest when a cloth was forced into his mouth and tied behind his head.

“You were not supposed to be awake yet. The sedatives should have kept you out longer than that, but I suppose it is noisy in here,” Vergo grumbled into his ear. “Be good and wait patiently. I'll deal with you soon enough.”

Of course, sedatives, no wonder Law felt so weak.

The room was getting cold, and from what Law could see through his blurry vision, there were people in a cage leaving the building. Weird, but maybe they were getting away from the weird screechy guy. Law didn't blame them. Law laid his head back on the couch and closed his eyes. He just needed to rest for a bit longer. Just a bit...

Everything slowly went quiet again, and Law drifted off to sleep once more.

.::.

“You are so lucky I decided to climb down this chain and into your cage. It's bloody cold out here,” Shachi sighed, lock picking the seastone chains binding everyone in the cage. He got Robin and Franky free first, then Smoker and Tashigi, much to Luffy's complaint. “You shut it! I know you'll run off as soon as my back is turned!”

“But, Shachi!” Luffy whined. “We gotta save Law!”

“I know that! Give me a second. Jeez!” Shachi complained. “You guys are so lucky I didn't go back to the Polar Tang with the others.”

“The Hearts withdrew?” Smoker frowned.

“Most of us,” Shachi said. “The haki users stayed behind to rescue our Captain.” Shachi grinned wolfishly. “And if we don't come back with our Captain, those who remained on the ship can report the situation to Fleet Admiral Kuzan and he can freeze everyone here after Rosinante goes nuts.”

“That's not the worst idea I've heard,” Smoker grunted. “Dammit, we need to find Trafalgar too. We're still stuck in each other's bodies!”

Shachi grimaced. “Yeah, I can't fix that. The best I can do is teleport all of us back inside with Law's teleportation amulet.”

“I'd rather go back to the Sunny and protect her,” Franky said.

“Fair enough.” Shachi nodded.

“Whale...” Luffy groaned.

“Don't 'whale' me, you squirt! I'll free you now. Jeez, you impatient asshole.”

“So slow!” Luffy complained.

“I'M WORKING ON IT, LUFFY!” Shachi yelled.

“WORK FASTER!” Luffy yelled back, then groaned and slumped again. “Too much energy...”

Shachi sighed heavily. “Ally ourselves with the Straw Hats, Law said, they would be good at causing chaos and helping us defeat Doflamingo. Yeah, good idea, Law, it wasn't like we've had constant headaches from this lot for years now.”

“Shishishi, I think Whale is losing his mind.” Luffy grinned at him.

Shachi had to resist the urge to punch that grin off his face. The little shit.

“YOU'RE THE CAUSE OF IT!” Shachi yelled.

.::.

Law startled awake again when he heard screaming.

“With the pirate Straw Hat Luffy in the lead, all of our enemies are in Building A and advancing fast!” Someone shouted over a den den mushi.

“WHAAAAATTT?! THEY GOT INSIDE?!” Caesar screeched.

The noisy bastard.

“How did they break out of the cage? And get through the shutters?!”

Law blinked tiredly. That brief nap had helped though. His head wasn't pounding as hard, nor was everything blurring as badly. He was still finding it hard to focus, but hopefully if he rested here for a bit longer he'd be fine. The seastone chains sapping his strength weren't helping though. They made Law feel even more exhausted.

“Close the gate between buildings A and B. We'll trap everyone in there,” Caesar ordered. “And find out where those damnable Heart Pirates are. We haven't heard a thing about them since Vergo had beaten up that one, but he escaped along with a female.” Caesar paused. “What will you be doing, Vergo?”

“I cannot risk Smoker sniffing out my subordinate in G-5,” Vergo said. “So I shall go deal with him personally. He won't be fooled by such an obvious trap. I will leave Law here under your supervision. If he causes a fuss, give him another sedative.”

“Will do,” Monet said.

Law winced when Vergo grabbed his jaw, forcing their eyes to meet. “Stay here and behave, Law. You're in enough trouble as it is.”

Law let himself blink heavily, and had to thank his luck when Vergo let him go without giving him another sedative again. He wouldn't be able to fight off another round of them. He'd pass out again.

“The sedatives I've given Law are still keeping him drowsy,” Vergo said, walking away. “As I said before, if he makes a fuss, sedate him again. I'll come collect him after I'm done with Smoker and Tashigi.”

Shit, Smoker and Tashigi were still in the wrong bodies. Law needed to get out these chains, but if he struggled too much Monet would probably sedate him again and he'd be unconscious for who knows how long. This was bad, Tashigi and Smoker would be murdered in their current state by Vergo. Vergo left, and Law carefully tested the chains binding his hands once his footsteps had faded away, but they didn't budge, not even a little. He needed something to distract Monet. Caesar wasn't the problem here. He was an arrogant ass, even if Law started trouble, he doubted that Caesar would bother knocking him back out. He'd just insult him.

Monet on the other hand would. She was the one Law had to watch out for.

That was when Luffy happened. Luffy who was a blessing when a distraction was needed. He was very good at those. He came in with a yell and attacked Caesar. Monet was completely focused on Luffy, an amused smile on her face. So distracted that she didn't notice Shachi slip into the room and approach Law's side.

“I'm here,” Shachi whispered, already picking at the lock. “Just hang on, I'll have you out of these in a sec while the squirt causes some chaos.”

The moment the chains loosened off Law opened up a room and teleported him and Shachi away. They landed in a hallway, tucked into the shadows of it. Shachi undid the gag, and Law rubbed his jaw and his aching wrists, massaging them gently.

“Are you alright?” Shachi asked.

“I'm good, thanks for the rescue,” Law said, patting his shoulder. “Will you be okay by yourself for a bit? I'm going to go save Smoker and Tashigi from Vergo while Luffy beats up Caesar.”

“Yeah, I bet they're pretty desperate to get back into their own bodies,” Shachi chuckled.

Law smirked and teleported away. He needed to hurry up and save Smoker and Tashigi. Kuzan and Rosinante would complain a lot if either of them got killed by Vergo. They would also tear Vergo limb from limb, which would be amusing to see, but Law didn't want to see Kuzan or Rosinante snap.

That wouldn't be a pretty sight.

.::.

“Law's heading for Tashigi and Smoker,” Penguin groaned. “Shachi is in Building B, yelling at a den den mushi, or more like being yelled at?”

“He looks terrified,” Bepo said.

“Oh yeah, that's his panicked face,” Penguin chuckled. “You can see the sweat.”

They had hacked into the security network as Penguin, Bepo, Nami and Usopp headed for SAD in Building D, so now they could see through all the cameras in their handheld screen, but they were surprised to see Shachi looking stressed out in a corner in a hallway, talking to a den den mushi.

Who in the world was he talking to?

“I'm glad the others got in safely too!” Nami beamed over his shoulder, pointing at the camera in the lower screen where the other Straw Hats were gathered up. “Right, we're going to split off from you two now. Thanks for all the help!”

“Yeah, thanks!” Usopp grinned, and the Straw Hats headed for the biscuit room.

“No problem, remember where you need to take the kids!” Penguin yelled.

So the only one's whereabouts he didn't know now was Ikkaku. Where in the devil was she?

.::.

“FINALLY ONE OF YOU PICKED UP! WHY THE HELL ARE YOU IN PUNK HAZARD?! AND DON'T YOU DARE THINK ABOUT LYING TO ME, SHACHI! WE HAVE A TRACKER ON YOUR SHIP!”

Shachi paled. Not now. Why did he have to call now of all times? Rosinante had picked the worst timing! He shouldn't have answered the snail, but he thought it might have been Penguin calling.

But no it was Rosinante calling him to yell at him.

“Of course you put a tracker on the Polar Tang!” Shachi groaned. “Look, we didn't realise we where in Punk Hazard until it was too late. Now Law's got a plan and- Eeep!”

“WHAT PLAN?! I SWEAR IF IT HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH DOFLAMINGO-”

“Stop screaming at me! I'm scared already!” Shachi sobbed.

“Put Law on.”

Shachi paled further. “I can't.”

“What do you mean you can't? Get him on the call now!”

“He got kidnapped by Vergo!” Shachi blurted out, then choked.

He shouldn't have said that!

“KIDNAPPED! MY SON HAS BEEN KIDNAPPED BY VERGO?!”

Shachi cried. “I'm sorry! We've rescued him-”

“HE'S GOING AFTER DOFLAMINGO, ISN'T HE?! I SWEAR WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON HIM I'LL DRAG HIM SCREAMING BACK TO MARINEFORD. HE'S IN SO MUCH TROUBLE! I PROMISE YOU RIGHT NOW HE WON'T KNOW WHAT'S COMING FOR HIM! I'M HIS FATHER DAMMIT! HE'S NOT ALLOWED TO GIVE ME A HEART ATTACK LIKE THIS!”

Shachi winced. He breathed out a cry of relief when Law teleported in next to him and shoved the den den mushi into his hands.

“You deal with this!”

“Shachi?” Law startled.

“TRAFALGAR D. WATER LAW-”

Law went pale. “C-Cora-san?!”

Shachi choked. That was the full name drop.

“JUST YOU WAIT UNTIL I GET MY HANDS ON YOU! YOU'RE IN SO MUCH TROUBLE, YOUNG MAN! VERGO KIDNAPPED YOU! YOU GET OFF THAT ISLAND RIGHT NOW WHILE YOU'RE FREE AGAIN! OH AND TO HEAR THAT YOU'RE GOING AFTER DOFLAMINGO. I'M FURIOUS!”

“I didn't even tell him anything!” Shachi hissed.

“I-”

“IF THOSE WORDS AREN'T 'I'M SORRY, I'M GETTING OFF THE ISLAND' THEN I DON'T WANT TO HEAR IT, YOU TROUBLEMAKER!”

Law threw him a terrified look. Shachi threw and equally terrified one back. He had never heard Rosinante sound so angry before, and it was scary.

“I'M ON MY WAY! YOU BETTER NOT GO ANYWHERE NEAR DOFLAMINGO AND HIS MEN-”

“No, don't you dare come here when Vergo is on the island!” Law protested. “He'll kill you!”

“HOW DO YOU THINK I FEEL KNOWING YOU'RE ON THE SAME ISLAND AS HIM?!"

“If nobody stops Doflamingo soon I am going to be captured by him one day,” Law said, his face heavy. “I can't avoid him forever, Cora-san. You know that. We both know that. I'm not going at this alone. I promise you. I have help-”

“I don't care if God himself is helping you, Law. If you do this you'll be going against your Warlord contract. We will arrest you.”

Law winced.

“I already said it to Shachi, but I am going to drag you back to Marineford, and this time you won't get to leave so easily. Last time you got to leave after six months for the stunt you pulled at The Rocky Port Incident. This time I won't be letting you leave at all.”

Chapter Text

“So Rosinante is pissed then,” Penguin sighed.

“Yeah,” Law groaned.

They had caught up to Penguin and Bepo at the SAD manufacturing room, although Ikkaku still wasn't around oddly enough. It was worrying that none of them knew where she had slipped off too, but hopefully she was safe. Maybe she was sneaking through the ventilation system again. She had done that before.

Shachi and Law told Penguin and Bepo about the call from hell. How furious Cora-san was, but now Bepo looked petrified, while Penguin just looked done with the entire situation. Law didn't blame him. They hadn't been out of Kuzan's sight for that long and now all this had to happen at once.

But when stars align and there is an opportunity to defeat Doflamingo... Law kind of had to take it.. What he said to Cora-san was true. Doflamingo would never let Law be.

Law sighed. “If we're captured by Cora-san, we'll never leave Marineford again, or at least I won't be. He'll probably lock me up.”

“Or just never let you out of his sight,” Shachi said.

“Fuck.” Penguin shivered. “That bad, huh?”

“Cora-san can be scary,” Bepo said.

.::.

“All of you abandon Punk Hazard and return to Dressrosa,” Doflamingo ordered, much to Vergo's confusion. “As long as we have Caesar, everything will be fine. We'll simply build him another laboratory. Lock down the entire lab, except the SAD manufacturing room where Law is, and let the Straw Hats and G-5 be poisoned to death.”

“Alright, Joker!” Caesar said. “A shame about the children, but I suppose I can just restart that project again.”

“Okay.” Monet agreed. “I'll be there soon.”

“Very well, Doffy.” Vergo only spoke after Monet's and Caesar's den den mushis were hung up. “Are you sure you don't simply wish for me to bring Law to you now?”

“Fufufufufu, after the Straw Hats are dead along with the marines, you can take your time to secure Law. He and his crew will be the only ones left alive on that island out of our enemies, and the Heart Pirates excluding Law shouldn't pose much of a threat to you.”

“Then I shall be sure to capture Law first. I already took some sea stone chains from Caesar's collection with me to restrain him, and another batch of sedatives to knock him out should he cause too much of a fuss.”

“Very good, Vergo. Once he's brought home I'll deal with the little troublemaker. I can handle him after that. Fufufufufu, Rosinante had his chance to keep Law and failed to take it. So now I'll be finally taking him back.”

.::.

“Anyone else worried that Monet and Vergo just left?” Penguin asked.

They were both leaving on the security footage. The hand held pad showed them exiting the base through a back entrance, and heading for the docks. Law didn't like this. They were up to something. There was no way Vergo would leave without Doflamingo's 'precious witch', nor would he leave without making sure the Marines and Straw Hats were all dead.

Law frowned. “Okay, that stinks of a trap.”

“They went off to the docks,” Penguin explained. “The clown hasn't left though. I think he's still trying to cause some trouble.”

“Typical. Is Luffy-ya with him yet?” Law asked.

“I'm not even sure where he is,” Penguin admitted. “He's no longer on any of Punk Hazard's security feeds.”

Law sighed. “Of course not...”

“Shit, if they are at the docks then Franky might be in danger,” Shachi hissed. “I'm going to give him a heads up. He'd better hide out.”

“Uh... Yeah... about that?” Penguin winced.

“He's attacking a Snow Snow Logia and a former Vice Admiral, isn't he?” Law sighed.

“Yep.”

“I hate the Straw Hats so much,” Law groaned. “Go grab an SAD Tanker and get it ready to leave. We've got to hurry up. I'll destroy this lab, and try find out where Ikkaku got to, would you?”

“Aye, aye!” Bepo nodded.

.::.

“Luffy just sent Caesar flying.”

“DAMMIT!” Law cursed.

.::.

Caesar could hear Vergo and Monet fighting that Pacifista reject. It wouldn't be too long until they were done with him, then they would come collect him and they'd escape to Dressrosa. That damn Straw Hat would pay dearly for all this. Joker would kill the little brat slowly and Caesar would watch gleefully.

He paused at the sound of heavy boots trudging across the thick patches of snow and startled at seeing a familiar yellow suited figure. They stared down at him from their mask, breathing into the suit, and Caesar couldn't help but grin. Good, one of his gullible minions was here. They would bring Caesar to safety.

“Oh thank goodness you're safe!” Caesar cried out. “You're such an amazing subordinate!”

He smiled brighter when they knelt down by his side.

“Thank you, I'm so glad to see you here. Please, hurry and get me to a ship. We both need to get to somewhere safe.”

“I will, Caesar,” a woman's voice said. “I'll bring you straight to my Captain's ship.”

Caesar frowned. “Your Captain's?”

He gasped, crying out when a dagger jammed into his stomach. An overwhelming wave of exhaustion hit him and he couldn't help but go completely limp in the snow.

“Don't worry, I'll make sure you stay alive,” the woman said cheerfully. “I just don't want you poisoning me. It's a seastone dagger so that'll keep those pesky abilities at bay.”

“What-” Caesar groaned out.

“I kind of feel like it's a bit of revenge for what that asshole did to my friend earlier, y'know, the tall suited bastard with food on his face,” the woman continued, digging into her pockets. She pulled out some kind of amulet. “I'm so glad I kept Uni's amulet. Now we get to teleport together. How fun is that?”

Teleport? Where? Who was this woman?!

She grabbed him and they disappeared in a burst of light, only to reappear somewhere dark and warm. She tossed off her mask, and Caesar paled.

That was the woman who had been with Trafalgar Law earlier!

“Whoa, you weren't kidding when you said you'd bring Ceasar in,” a giant man chuckled from his chair. “Good job, Ikkaku.”

This bitch-

Ikkaku grinned. “I knew Straw Hat would send this fucker flying, so I made sure to stick around just in case. Captain will be so happy.”

.::.

“Vergo's defeated Franky,” Penguin said.

“WHAAAATT?!” Luffy cried out, shaking his shoulder.

They were on the Tanker, trying to avoid being poisoned and/or crushed to death. The whole factory was falling apart now and they were trying to get out as quickly as possible.

“Yeah,” Penguin said, ignoring Luffy. “He just got thrown into the ocean. That sucks.”

“DON'T SAY IT SO EASILY!” Luffy yelled. “FRANKY!”

“Is he a devil fruit user?” Penguin asked, although he already knew the answer.

Franky was a cyborg, which was bloody awesome if anybody asked Penguin.

“Well, no-”

“Then stop screaming in my ear before I spill all your secrets to your friends,” Penguin threatened.

Luffy winced and held up his hands. “Sorry, birdy!”

“How do you do that?!” Usopp cried.

“I've known him since he was about nine?” Penguin offered. “I know all his secrets.” He smiled sharply at Luffy, who went paler. “I might not be able to kick your ass, but I can certainly blackmail it.” Penguin grinned. “And it's Penguin. I know you know my name, because you used it earlier!”

Shachi frowned. “It looks like Monet and Vergo are taking off on some weird yellow guy with a maid on his back?”

Penguin paused. “Caesar isn't there.”

“This is definitely a trap,” Law sighed.

“Unless they can't find him? Did Luffy punch him into the ocean or something?” Penguin wondered.

“I hope not,” Law groaned.

Thankfully Franky was fine once they arrived at the docks. He swam back up, looking annoyed, and ranted about his Iron General or whatever. Law ignored him in favour of the Polar Tang slipping out of the ocean, and Ikkaku walking out with a very smug smile.

What had she done?

.::.

“Marry me!” Penguin instantly was down on one knee.

Ikkaku laughed. Law was so relieved. She had captured Caesar and delivered him to the Polar Tang before he could escape. He could actually kiss her right now. What an angel.

“Yeah, good job fixing this blunder head's mess.” Shachi jerked his thumb at Luffy.

Luffy huffed. “Caesar sucks! I don't see why we have to kidnap him, Traffy!”

“It'll annoying Doflamingo,” Law offered.

“Flamingo!” Luffy scowled.

“Why are you so angry every time you hear his name?” Law sighed.

“Because he's trying to kidnap you!” Luffy snapped. “You're my brother, not his!”

“I don't remember ever agreeing to becoming your brother,” Law mused.

“You call Ace your brother and he's my brother,” Luffy said.

“That's because we're both head witches,” Law complained.

“Doesn't matter. Shadow Lady raised us all together!”

“Still not calling her Rouge?” Law smirked.

“Shishishishi, Shadow Lady is the Shadow Lady.” Luffy grinned.

“Okay, so you, Ace, Sabo, Law, Penguin, Shachi and Bepo were all raised together by this Shadow Lady?” Usopp clarified.

Luffy tilted his head. “Well Ace was with the Shadow Lady and the bandits first-”

“Bandits?” Nami startled.

“Yeah! Then they met Sabo, then grandpa dumped me on them after Shanks left me with his hat, and I met Ace too, and Sabo, but Ace was really grumpy back then. Then Sabo tried to sail away and got almost blown up, and people found out that Ace was a witch, so we had to leave the island. Shadow Lady wanted to kill everyone, but Dragon stopped her-”

“A dragon?” Usopp choked.

“Yeah, then we sailed on the dragon to North Blue and I was tied to a flamingo float and Bepo saved me!” Luffy grinned. “Then we met Traffy, Penguin and the whale and Shadow Lady raised us while Sabo left with Dragon.”

“You sailed on Dragon's ship,” Law corrected.

“The dragon had a ship?” Usopp gasped.

“A pirate dragon!” Chopper beamed.

“Wait, you left your brother with the pirate dragon?” Usopp paused.

Law groaned.

“And where did the bandits go?” Nami raised a brow. “And how did you end up back in East Blue? That's where we met you!”

“Shadow Lady brought us back there when Ace went to sail off and start his adventure as a pirate,” Luffy said, then deflated. “Ace... I miss Ace...”

Law patted his head. “If we're lucky he's terrorising the World Nobles.”

“What the hell was that entire story?” Smoker groaned.

“I don't know...” Tashigi shook her head. “I'm honestly not sure if I want to know...”

Robin chuckled. “Everyone, I believe Luffy was talking about his father, Dragon.”

“Ah, right, the Revolutionary...” Usopp sighed, then yelped. “THE REVOLUTIONARY DRAGON HAD A DRAGON ON HIS SHIP?!”

Law groaned. He was going to murder these people.

Chapter Text

“Fleet Admiral, should you really be here?” Isuka asked.

“It'll be fine,” Rosinante huffed.

Kuzan had slipped aboard their ship when Rosinante left Marineford hours ago. Nobody had noticed apart from Rosinante, but he hadn't really cared to complain either. It felt like more insurance if they did run into Doffy. They were now heading towards Dressorsa after Smoker's latest report. The Straw Hats and Heart Pirates had sailed off to go to Green Bit, much to Rosinante's fury. He swore when he got a hold of Law, Law would be grounded for years to come. He was going to drag him back to Marineford and that problem child would be put on a time out. The brat had gotten rid of the big on the Polar Tang too, which boiled Rosinante's blood.

He was going to strangle Law.

“I'm just visiting Punk Hazard to check on Smoker and the rest of G-5,” Aokiji said. “Fujitora will join you on Dressrosa, depending on what Law's next move is.” Aokiji eyed him. “But if Smoker is mistaken, and Law is somehow still on Punk Hazard, I'll freeze his ass and capture him immediately.”

“Thank you,” Rosinante said through gritted teeth.

.::.

“We have five Emperors of the Sea now?” Rouge frowned.

“Ever since the Payback War ended in a tie Teach has been called the fifth Emperor yoi,” Marco sighed.

“Even with you there, Eddy?” Rouge startled.

“I had been shot by seastone and didn't have enough time to fish out the bullet,” Eddy grumbled. “But I did manage to stop Teach from absorbing us all with his darkness. It ended in a stalemate and we had to end the battle before both of us died, which I would have been fine with, but my children are persistent-”

“Of course we are, you psycho!” Haruta snapped.

“Yeah, stop trying to die, you old fart!” Fossa scowled.

“You can't die before we get Ace back and ground him,” Izo agreed. “That was the deal, Pops!”

“You're all demanding brats!” Eddy snapped back.

Rouge sighed. “If Law finds out your abusing his healing gifts he's going to come back and take a lung, or a heart like he did with Ace.”

“How has Ace survived all these years without a heart yoi?” Marco groaned. “That should be impossible!”

Rouge shrugged. “Devil fruits are weird.”

.::.

“What are they doing over there?” Nami raised a brow.

Luffy and Law were sitting on the floor, staring at each other. Law felt relaxed and at ease with the game, and he knew his slouch looked lazy, all while Luffy was squirming, boredom kicking in. He was struggling to maintain his gaze, to the point sweat was gathering on his brow.

Law had won. He knew it. Luffy probably knew it. But Luffy was stubborn. He'd try to win, and it was all in vain.

Luffy had never won a staring contest in his life.

Law really didn't know why Luffy kept challenging people to them.

“Staring match,” Shachi offered.

“Huh? Why?” Nami groaned.

“Law got bored and Luffy was bugging him,” Penguin said.

Law smirked. “I saw that, Luffy-ya.”

“No!” Luffy was twitching, struggling to keep his eyes open.

“You're going to blink any minute now,” Law teased.

“No!”

“Right about...” Law's grin widened. “Now.”

“GAH!” Luffy threw himself back on the grass. “I LOST!”

Law chuckled. “I don't know why you keep challenging me.”

“I'll beat you one day! Then it will be Ace, because he was supposed to be first, but he's got to be last now!” Luffy huffed. “So next it will be Sabo.”

Law snorted. “The champion of staring contests? Good luck.”

Sabo was the winner of all staring contest games. By two matches, but the last one was way too freaky and Law wasn't sure if it should count.

Luffy had slammed (being booted by Rouge during training) into Sabo during that last staring contest- it had been before Law had left Rouge's protection- and yet Sabo had still stared at him even after being knocked over by Luffy. It had been impressive enough to startle a blink out of Law, and Sabo had crowed that victory ever since.

The ass.

“So, we're going to call Doflamingo then?” Sanji asked. “Since he went and resigned?”

“Surprised he did to be honest,” Penguin scoffed.

“Guess that shows how important this asshole is to him.” Shachi jerked his thumb at Caesar.

Law frowned. “I don't doubt that this is all just a trap and that Doflamingo will pull something sneaky. He must have ratted out our alliance to the newspapers to cause some trouble between the marines and I.”

“Not that you weren't already in a bit of trouble after Rosinante found out our plans.” Shachi shuddered.

Law grimaced.

“You do seem to have quite the history with him,” Robin mused. “But I haven't figured out what it is yet.”

“What do you mean?”

“Vergo and Monet called you a 'runaway',” Robin revealed.

“What?” Luffy bristled. “Cora saved him!”

Law supposed he could reveal a bit more about himself. This was Luffy's crew after all, and he did trust Luffy. He didn't want to risk Doflamingo lying about a situation to make himself more in a favourable light in the Straw Hat's eyes and Law and Rosinante more like enemies. Best to just give the Straw Hats a brief history review.

Law grimaced. “I suppose they aren't wrong about that. I was apart of the Donquixote Family a long time ago, until my adopted father, Vice Admiral Rosinante, whom you met back in Water 7, Robin, rescued me from them,” Law explained. “Ever since then I have been on the run from them. Rosinante and I were separated trying to escape them, and it almost got him killed. Thankfully he survived, but not without my intervention.”

“Your healing magic?” Robin frowned.

Law nodded. “Ever since then I have been running from both the Donquixote Family and the marines. I hid out in North Blue with Bepo, Penguin and Shachi until Rouge-ya and her rabid children came along and ruined the peace and quiet, and well, you know the rest really. I set sail with the Heart Pirates and trouble ended up following us several years after that.” He jerked his thumb at Luffy.

Luffy beamed.

“That makes so much more sense with Luffy's story added to it,” Usopp mused.

“Even the part with the dragon?” Nami asked dryly.

“Did you meet the dragon, Law?” Chopper asked.

“I met Dragon a few times.”

“WHOA!” Chopper's and Usopp's eyes beamed.

“He met a dragon!” Chopper whispered in awe.

Law stared at Luffy, who blinked and tilted his head curiously. “You do know your father is Dragon, right?”

“Shishishi, yep! Gramps told me back at Water 7,” Luffy said. “I had no idea before that though. I never would have guessed.”

“Yeah, he's so much taller and serious than you,” Shachi said. “And has an IQ.”

“I'm not that small!” Luffy protested.

“Shorty.” Shachi stuck out his tongue.

“I like how it's the short part he's offended by and not the lack of IQ,” Penguin muttered. “Shachi, you're picking a fight with a twelve year old.”

“I'm not twelve!” Luffy protested.

Penguin gasped, and it actually sounded pretty genuine despite that shit eating grin on his face. “Wait, really? I thought because you were so short-”

“Not you too! I'll beat you both up!”

Law sighed and picked up his den den mushi. “I guess we better get this over with.”

“Just give me the signal, Law, and I'll stab Caesar again,” Ikkaku said as Law called up Doflamingo.

“NO!” Caesar wailed.

“Stop stabbing him!” Chopper cried out. “It just gives me more work to do!”

“Why are half of you Heart Pirates even on our ship anyway?” Zoro asked.

“We're bored and Captain's here,” Penguin said. “Besides, he seems to get into more trouble with you lot than he's ever done before, so we'd like to keep an eye on him.”

Law twitched. “I'm not some absent minded two year old...”

“You just had a staring contest with one.” Shachi smirked at Luffy.

Luffy blinked, before it dawned on him. “Oi! I'm not two either!”

The snail's ringing went silent, as did they all. The tension was heavy in the air, as the other end of the snail clicked, and Law swore he saw Usopp gulped.

“Hello, Law. I've resigned from the Warlords.”

“He picked up!” Franky and Chopper both cried out.

“Doflamingo?!” Luffy bristled.

“Shhh!” Usopp shushed. “He'll hear you!”

Luffy snatched Law's hand and brought the speaker up to his face. “I'm Monkey D. Luffy! I'm gonna become the King of the Pirates!”

“I told you to shut up!” Usopp screeched, whacking Luffy over the head.

Of course that did nothing to stop him. If that had worked, Law, Ace and Sabo would have gotten Luffy to shut up plenty of times over the years.

“Hey, Mingo! Are you that jerk Caesar's boss?” Luffy ignored Usopp, even as Usopp tried to drag him away from the snail. “He gave Brownbeard and the children hell! We're going to give him back, but if you do that again I'll beat the crap out of you!”

“Straw Hat Luffy.” Doflamingo smirked. “You disappeared for two years after the war. Fufufufufufu, where did you go and what were you doing?”

“I shouldn't tell anyone about that,” Luffy insisted.

“Fufufufufu, I wanted to see you.” That made them all pause. “I have information you want very badly. In fact, you might be interested in it too, Law, and perhaps a prize you might both value.”

Law frowned.

“Information that I want...?” Luffy blinked, then his eyes lit up and Law grimaced when he began to drool. “Hey... is it the location of an island of meat? How much meat is there...?”

“Luffy-ya, don't get drawn into his pace!”

“But, Law, there could be so much meat!” Luffy drooled, even as Law tried to free the speaker from his hands.

“Luffy! Keep yourself together! This is his special attack called 'his pace'!” Usopp screamed, shaking Luffy.

Law had been trying to shake braincells into that one for years now. It hadn't worked so far.

“It's about Portgas D. Ace.”

Both Law and Luffy froze at that.

“The first time you saw him in years was during the war, wasn't it? And then he got snatched away by Kizaru in the blink of an eye! Fufufufufufu!” Doflamingo laughed, a deep, cutting laugh. “Do you want to know what became of him? I can tell you.”

Law didn't know what to say to that, nor did Luffy. Luffy who stared down at the den den mushi with wide, terrified eyes. Law cursed.

“Joker! Cut the crap!” Law snarled, snatching the speaker off of Luffy.

“Fufufufufu! There's no need to spoil the fun, little Law.”

Law scowled. “We'll hand Caesar over to you as promised-”

“Well that's for your own good. If you try to run away with him, you know what will happen to you guys. Fufufufufufu!” Doflamingo's grin sharpened. “Now, can I hear my precious business partners voice?”

Law held out the speaker towards Caesar, who shuffled over. “Joker! You resigned from the Warlords for me-” He tried to grab the speaker, but Law pulled it away.

“Did you hear him?” Law asked.

“Yeah.” Doflamingo sounded cheerful. “He sounds fine.”

“Eight hours from now, on the Southeast side of Green Bit, the solitary island north of Dressrosa, we'll leave Caesar there at three in the afternoon. You can pick him up, and this will all be finished.”

“That's too bad. I wanted to have a drink with you, Law-”

“Just hang up!” Luffy yelled, grabbing Law's hand and forcing him to end the call by hanging up the snail's speaker. Luffy sighed in relief. “That was close... You almost got dragged into his pace...”

“Like you did earlier?” Law frowned, looking away. “...I will admit, he took me by surprise too...”

Luffy scowled. “We'll beat him up and get him to cough up the information on Ace!”

“I doubt it'll be as simple as that,” Law sighed.

“We'll do it anyway!”

Chapter Text

“So the rest of you will be guarding your ship?” Nami said, eyeing Penguin.

“Yeah, Ikkaku, Shachi and I will be staying near Law, while the others look after the Polar Tang and back you guys up if there is a trap,” Penguin said.

“I'll go see if I can track down the other Straw Hats, damn that Luffy,” Shachi groaned. “That squirt always has to wander off.”

Law sighed. “We'll go to Green Bit and trade Caesar off then. Good luck, all of you.”

“See you later!” Ikkaku said cheerfully. “Hey, Law, how about we go get some drinks and food before the exchange? Lunch would be nice.”

“Really?” Law groaned.

“Yeah, c'mon, treat me to lunch!” Ikkaku insisted. “The cafes look cute here.”

Penguin smiled. “Yeah, maybe they'll have some nice snacks too.”

“Fine, fine,” Law sighed.

.::.

Shachi had managed to catch up to Luffy. It had taken a while, but he had found Luffy and Franky interrogating one of Doflamingo's subordinates, but what he said... it couldn't be true... it couldn't be...

“The prize is the Mera Mera no Mi...” Luffy said shakily.

“But that means...” Franky gasped.

Shachi went pale. Ace... Ace couldn't be dead... That wasn't right... Wouldn't they have heard something? Anything? Ace couldn't be dead!

“The prize is to get Ace's devil fruit,” Luffy said coldly. “I'm going to enter that contest and win. I'll make Doflamingo tell me everything about Ace afterwards.”

Shachi bit his lip. He couldn't help but think of Ace. A kid Ace with Rouge and Luffy and Law, Penguin and Bepo. They had all been there together in North Blue and now Ace might be dead?

Luffy squeezed his shoulder. “I'm going in, Shachi.”

Shachi swallowed back the tears. This wasn't the right time. Law needed help, but this was Ace... Shit, he didn't know what to do...

.::.

Thatch appeared beside Sabo in a flash of light. He stumbled, but steadied himself from the teleportation and groaned while Cornelia collapsed to her knees, trembling. “Shit, I hate teleporting,” he complained.

“It's horrible...” Cornelia whined.

“It was the best way to get you both here in time,” Sabo said, grimacing as he pocketed an amulet, one Rouge had made for him, connected to Thatch's. “Ace's devil fruit-”

“Pops is livid,” Thatch hissed. “Between him and Rouge, the sky has been torn apart again and there have been several tsunamis around the Moby Dick ongoing. It's why we're bloody soaked.”

“I'm surprised Rouge isn't here,” Sabo admitted.

“Pops refused to let her. She would have butchered everyone here, including the civilians to get to that devil fruit,” Cornelia said, squeezing the water out of her hair.

“Which is why we're both here instead,” Thatch said, holding out his hand. Cornelia took it and pulled herself up, brushing off her knees.

“We'll enter the contest, Sabo. Between us two we'll get Ace's devil fruit back and find out some answers. Doflamingo must know something if he has Ace's devil fruit,” Cornelia insisted.

“Luffy is entering too,” Sabo said.

“Then we'll win this easy peasy.” Thatch grinned. “C'mon, Cornelia. Let's go sign up.”

“You not going to disguise yourselves?” Sabo asked dryly.

“Nah, we're going to reminded Doflamingo that he's messing with the wrong fucking people,” Thatch said wolfishly. “Let's go kick some ass, Cornelia!”

“Right, Commander.”

.::.

Sabo couldn't wait for Reverie. He needed to get in there and find out what the fuck happened to Ace. This had gone on for too long.

Sabo was going to get his brother back.

He refused to believe Ace was dead. He couldn't believe it. He had seen the black dot on Thatch's hand too. It was still there. His promise to Davy Jones was still valid. It would have disappeared if Ace was dead, and Thatch would be dead too, his soul lost to the seas if legends were correct.

Ace had to be alive.

.::.

Ikkaku munched at her chocolate cake happily. She had even managed to convince Law to buy some lunch too. He would need all the energy he could get after all. The problem was the location point. The fish around these parts were insanely dangerous according to the locals. She hoped the others were safe in the Polar Tang.

“Traffy, it's going to be too dangerous going over there with those angry fish,” Usopp pleaded. “Please change the hand over location.”

“Yes! I don't think it's suitable either!” Caesar begged.

“I'm not going to change it. We're already here,” Law said, sipping at his coffee. “Anyway, I'm more concerned about the people's reaction here. Their king just suddenly abdicated the throne, yet no one looks panicked at all.”

“Yeah it is pretty weird,” Ikkaku began, then paused when Robin suddenly dragged her hat further down across her head.

“Robin?” Usopp startled.

“Shhh!” she shushed.

“CP-0,” Law whispered, his brow furrowing.

“CP?” Usopp gulped. “Don't tell me they're related to CP-9.”

“They're the strongest out of all the Cipher Pol agents,” Robin revealed.

“Jeez, CP-9 was strong enough already!” Usopp cried.

“When they are on the move nothing good ever happens,” Robin said softly, frowning heavily.

“Indeed...” Law frowned.

Penguin leaned closer to him, whispering. “You don't think it is to do with that little secret Cora-san told you about?”

Law grimaced. “That's what I'm worried about.”

“Secret?” Robin tilted her head.

Ikkaku eyed Law who sighed. “I was told some interesting information about Doflamingo by my adopted father a year back. He told me that the Donquixote Family were originally Celestial Dragons.”

Robin's, Usopp's and Caesar's jaws all dropped.

.::.

“Bellamy seems to be quite the popular one,” Monet chuckled.

She was sat down with her sisters, watching the coliseum together. Monet, Sugar and Baby-5 were relaxing over the couches, munching on snacks. While Doffy dealt with that troublesome child Law. She smirked at the thought and leaned further back on the couch. She could hear Russian lecturing her daughter in the hallway though, while Gimlet and Dellinger protested.

“Margarita is far too young to watch such things,” Russian huffed.

“But, mother!” Gimlet whined. “It's just a bit of blood sport.”

“No means no, young man.”

“Did Rebecca not come back yet?” Baby-5 frowned. “I thought she was sitting the fight out today. I made tea!”

“Oh, sorry, Baby-5, I was going to tell you earlier, but she's helping supervise the contestants today,” Monet said. “She's already broken up a few fights before the matches even started.”

“Aww, and I was hoping we could do our nails together. I bought more colours I thought she would have liked,” Baby-5 pouted.

Monet smiled fondly at that. She had captured Rebecca during their takeover of Dressrosa. They had gotten lucky that day. Scarlett had been buying food in the streets, so while Diamante-san had executed her mother there, Monet took a starving and cold Rebecca from the flower fields and into a nice, warm castle with plenty of food. The girl had of course asked about her mother a hundred times over, but slowly, surrounded by her new family, the girl lost her focus on her mother and joined their family instead. That was when Monet solemnly told her of her mother's fate.

Rebecca believed her mother had been killed by angry mobs of Dressrosa's people. Monet had sobbed, revealing how angry they were at Rebecca's family after what Riku had done to his people, and they had taken their rage out on her mother and murdered her in the streets.

Rebecca had screamed and cried away that entire night.

Doflamingo had consoled her the entire time.

It's not like it mattered that they had lied about it. They had raised Rebecca after all. Rebecca was their family member. The people of Dressrosa had never treated her kindly, not when they had heard she was the old King Riku's granddaughter. They had booed her, threatened her, yelled death threats and mocked her. It was their family who protected Rebecca from all that, they who told off the raging crowds threatening murder upon her.

Rebecca was theirs. It was as simple as that.

.::.

“Of course it was a trap,” Ikkaku groaned, raising her seastone dagger.

Caesar screeched.

Law grabbed her hand. “Don't just gut Caesar!”

“Oh c'mon!” Ikkaku scowled. “He hurt those kids a lot, Law. Just one little stab-”

“No.”

“What's going to happen to my handover now?” Caesar sobbed.

“It's not happening,” Penguin snorted, drawing his spear.

“Nico-ya, get Long Nose-ya and get off of Green Bit-” Law began.

“The problem is that we're underground,” Robin admitted, wincing. “Both Usopp and I are safe, but we can't help you.”

“That's fucking helpful,” Ikkaku scoffed. “This damn alliance, Law-”

“It's fine,” Law said. “Let's unite at the harbour where we agreed to meet up-”

Law gasped and stiffened up, much to Ikkaku's alarm. She followed his gaze and paled. There were a lot of marines on the beach now, emerging from the forest, but none of them worried her more than the giant towering over his men.

“Oh boy...” she groaned.

It was Fujitora.

“That is you, isn't it, Law-san?” Fujitora asked.

“Can we say no?” Ikkaku whispered to Law, but he ignored her.

“It's been a while, Fujitora-ya,” Law greeted.

At least it was the nice polite Admiral here, even if he was terrifying. Ikkaku had only seen him a few times in passing in Marineford reporting to Fleet Admiral Aokiji, but he was so overwhelmingly strong that it was scary. He had been so polite to her the one time they spoke in passing, when Ikkaku was lost in Marineford and trying to find Law's room, but he still terrified the living daylights out of her.

A shadow passed above them, and much to Ikkaku's despair it was Doflamingo who landed across the beach from them, grinning wickedly.

Caesar's face lit up with a massive grin. “Joker!”

“That's one way to give away his name...” Penguin muttered.

Ikkaku had to stifle a giggle.

“Hey, Law! Well done, I didn't except to see a Marine Admiral here. I'm scared as hell since I just lost my status as a Warlord!” Doflamingo grinned.

“Cut the crap!” Law snapped. “You used your connections to the World Government, didn't you? It must have been handy, considering where you used to be from all those years ago.”

Doflamingo tilted his head. “Oh? What has Rosinante told you, little Law?”

“A lot, which is why I'm surprised you would use that connection to trade in such a favour just to fool a few of us for a few hours,” Law admitted. “I have to admit, I'm touched.”

“Fufufufufu, I've told you before, the more spectacular the magic, the simpler the trick.”

“The only thing I can't quite understand is why they would bother doing you a favour.” Law frowned.

“Maybe I'll tell you later,” Doflamingo chuckled.

“Joker!” Caesar yelled. “Kick this guy's ass already!”

Ikkaku yanked his scarf, dragging him back, earning a choked protest. She jabbed her dagger against his back, just pressing the tip of the blade against him to keep him still.

“The deal is off, Doflamingo!” Law snapped. “You didn't do a single thing I told you.”

“Now, now, Law, don't be like that.” Doflamingo smirked, holding out a hand. “You've lost already and you know it. Come with me and we'll move past this nasty rebellion of yours. It's time to come home. Behave yourself and hand back my subordinate too while you're at it.”

Law scowled. “No thanks.”

Doflamingo looked amused, but looked over towards Fujitora instead. “You're Fujitoa, appointed as a Marine Admiral through the world military draft. I've heard a lot about you! They say you're a monster who has unquestionable power, just like Ryokugyu.”

“Why thank you.” Fujitora nodded his head.

“Don't play dumb,” Doflamingo chuckled.

“I'm still new to the Marines, so it's hard for me to understand what you are doing. I don't have enough evidence yet, but I have some information about you doing things that goes against the rules of the Seven Warlords. That man right there, your subordinate, was calling you 'Joker'. Is that a nickname?”

Ikkaku shared a smirk with Penguin. She knew Fujitora would pick up on that.

Caesar choked.

“Fufufufufu, if you want to investigate me, you must be really determined and collect plenty of evidence.” Doflamingo smirked. “Now, what's the Marine's decision on Law's punishment?”

Fujitora remained silent for a painfully long time. Ikkaku had to fight the urge to squirm. She didn't like this. She really didn't like this.

“Regarding the news about you and the pirates, the Straw Hats,” Fujitora began, facing Law. “If you're allying with them as they say in the news, then you are guilty. If however, they have become your subordinates, Law-san, then you're not guilty.”

Please say subordinates. Please say subordinates.

“Our mission depends on your response,” Fujitora continued. “We may have to arrest you, your crew, and the Straw Hats. You will be brought back to Marineford to await your punishment, Law-san, while the others will go to Impel Down.”

Ikkaku wouldn't survive Impel Down.

But no, she could see Law's thought process. They needed to buy time for the Straw Hats to destroy the factory. Those assholes so far hadn't been much help to be honest, but this involved breaking something. They were good at breaking things. Please let them break the factory.

Law raised his hand. “Room!”

It expanded out, right towards the Polar Tang that hid beneath the ocean waves. They had made sure their ship had been sailing close by enough, but still far out, just in case anything like this happened.

“Shambles!” Law switched out Caesar with a barrel.

“Law-” Doflamingo snarled.

“It's as you read in the newspaper!” Law yelled. “The Straw Hats and the Heart Pirates are in an alliance!”

“Unfortunately,” Ikkaku sighed.

Penguin grimaced.

“What a clumsy man,” Doflamingo chuckled.

“Then we have to strip you of your title. It would be nice if the story ended there, but...” Fujitora drew his blade, and a strange purple circle appeared above him and shot up into the sky.

“A meteorite?!” Ikkaku screamed. “Dammit!”

“Ikkaku, take Penguin and go!” Law yelled.

Ikkaku yanked off the chained dagger off her belt and swung it, throwing the blade across the beach into the far end. It plunged deep into the ground beside a tree. “Law, will you be okay?”

“Go!”

She grabbed Penguin and pressed the button. The chain began to shorten rapidly, and she and Penguin were yanked off their feet and across the beach in seconds as the meteorite fell, then crashed down on top of Law, Doflamingo and Fujitora as she and Penguin landed on the ground. They were forced to cling to the tree as a gush of wind hit them, threatening to send them flying off their feet. Ikkaku got up slowly, while Penguin stood there, scowling at the dust cloud that hid Law from their view.

She could feel them though. All three of them were alive and well.

Damn, she had hoped at least Doflamingo might have been squashed. That would have been handy.

Law, Doflamingo and Fujitora stood on three pillars in the middle of a huge crater. Ikkaku paled at the sight. Yeah, Fujitora was a kind, but scary man. Her gut hadn't been wrong at all.

Doflamingo snarled. “How did the Fleet Admiral train you? You damn stray dog!”

“It certainly doesn't matter if he can't see or not, he's extremely powerful,” Law said.

“Why thank you. I just wanted to test your skills,” Fujitora admitted.

THAT WAS A TEST?!

“Now, I'm going to arrest you, Law-san. I hope that is okay.”

NO IT WASN'T!

“Don't think you can get away from me, Law,” Doflamingo said. “You have nowhere to run.”

DAMN IT ALL TO HELL!

Chapter Text

Penguin frowned. “Law's lead them all away.”

“At least we took out the marine fodder before they could follow,” Ikkaku said, gently nudging an unconscious marine with her boot. They all lay on the ground, all out cold thanks to her and Penguin. “But this is problematic. Law's alone with both Fujitora and Doflamingo.”

“If we go in there Doflamingo might just puppet us to attack Law,” Penguin said, scowling.

“This is a pain in the ass,” Ikkaku groaned. “And all those explosions are going off in the forest. I hope Law's alright.”

“I'd be less worried about him and more about yourselves.”

A full gale of cold air hit them as snow began to swirl round. Ikkaku scowled and spun on her heel, throwing her dagger. Monet dodged it, smirking. The dagger sunk harmlessly into the sand beside her, much to Ikkaku's amusement.

“I know about your seastone daggers, little Heart!”

“Good for you,” Ikkaku scoffed. “And I know you're a snow logia and that the dagger I just threw wasn't seastone.”

She clicked the remote in her pocket, and the dagger sunk into the sand beside Monet exploded into flames.

“It was a fire one!” Ikkaku grinned.

Of course, because of that, Monet unleashed a nasty snow storm, but what that woman didn't get was that they were children of North Blue. They grew up in the cold.

A little bit of snow wasn't much of a bother to them at all.

.::.

“Well that is a bad disguise,” Cornelia chuckled.

Thatch followed her gaze and grinned at 'Lucy'. “Jeez, Ace's little brother is as reckless as ever.”

“Well we're in D block, so we better win,” Cornelia said. “For Ace, right?”

Thatch nodded. “For Ace.”

He didn't believe Ace was dead yet. Thatch opened up his palm and frowned thoughtfully at the black spot on it. Davy Jones hadn't come for his soul yet. He should have if Ace was dead. It meant that Thatch would never bring him home. That there wouldn't be a chance.

Ace had to be alive, somehow, they just needed to find out how and rescue him.

He couldn't wait for the Reverie to finally begin.

.::.

“There's no place I can get comfortable,” Luffy complained.

“You could come this way, Lucy,” Rebecca called out from the opposite hallway, where she was pushing a cart full of food, bandages, bottles of water and blankets. “You have a lot of enemies today.”

“Oh, thanks! You're that supervisor girl...” Luffy trailed off, tilting his head. “Um...”

“Rebecca,” she introduced herself, smiling, as they walked down the corridors. “I was about to deliver a cart of supplies to the gladiators. You could join me if you like. It's always quiet down there.”

“Is all of that food?” Luffy drooled.

“I'll get you some, so please don't eat this cart,” Rebecca laughed, but they both paused at the sight of Burgess.

“Oh, hang on a sec, Captain. Straw Hat is here,” Burgess said gleefully, eyes sharp, as he turned the snail in his hand towards Luffy.

Rebecca remained silent.

“Oh? Straw Hat is here?”

“Blackbeard,” Luffy growled.

“Zehahahaha, yes, it's me! It's been a while. I heard you were fighting in the competition, Lucy, but my man Burgess is gonna bring me home Ace's Mera Mera no Mi. I can't wait. It'll be just like having Ace back home by my side again.”

“You guys are the last people I want to have Ace's power!” Luffy snapped.

“Wihahahaha! I can't wait to fight you!” Burgess laughed, standing up and walking away. “See you in the final match, Straw Hat!”

Rebecca frowned. It looked like Luffy was about to go fight him regardless with it was a match or not.

“Lucy, you can't fight him out here. You have to wait to beat him up,” Rebecca said softly.

She could understand the urge though. This was Luffy's brother's devil fruit after all, and some creep like that wanted it. It would be like if someone tried to steal one of family member's devil fruit, like Doffy, Jora or Pica. Rebecca would want nobody else trying to steal it from their family. Luffy looked reluctant, but he did walk off with her thankfully.

Doflamingo needed Luffy distracted while he dealt with Law. Viola should have captured Black Leg, and the rest of the Straw Hats and Hearts were hopefully all split up across Dressrosa now.

Rebecca was forced to buy Luffy lunch after he started trying to wolf away a food stall's supply of lunch boxes, but finally she arrived at the imprisoned gladiators cells.

“Rebecca!” they all started crying out.

“Hi, everyone!” she greeted warmly. “I've brought food, water, bandages and blankets. I hope it helps.”

“Where are we?” Luffy asked, blinking as he wolfed down his lunch box.

“This is where the gladiators of the coliseum live,” Rebecca explained. “I come in with supplies since I'm a supervisor-”

“Nobody else who is a supervisor does it, Rebecca-chan!”

“Yeah, you're the only nice one.”

“The others would leave us to starve to death if you weren't here.”

“Or bleed out.”

.::.

Starve to death? Bleed out? Rebecca was the only one helping them too? Jeez, she really was nice, wasn't she? She had already bought Luffy lunch with all the money in her purse too. Rebecca was awesome.

Luffy frowned. “They look like mummies.”

“We're not! We're convicted gladiators!” they protested.

Rebecca sighed and began passing out food and water, unlocking the cell doors to help redress bandages.

“We protested against the Donquixote Family so they locked us up here to die-”

“Unless you win a thousand battles,” Rebecca said quietly.

Luffy paused. A thousand didn't seem that bad. He, Ace and Sabo probably did way more than that as kids.

“We all know that is impossible, Rebecca-chan,” the prisoner protested. “Rebecca is the only kind one out of that family-”

“You're apart of the Donquixote Family?” Luffy startled.

Oh no! His disguise! Did she know? No, wait, she had only called him 'Lucy' this entire time. She must not have realised it yet. Good, that meant his disguise still worked on her at least...

Rebecca smiled. “Yeah, they found me on the streets when I was a girl and saved me. I probably would have been killed by a violent mob otherwise.”

“What do you mean?” Luffy frowned.

“I'm the granddaughter of the former king of this country,” Rebecca said slowly, hesitantly, edging away from him, as if he was going to hit her.

Luffy's brow furrowed at that. Why did she look worried?

“The old king Riku burned down towns and tried to steal all our hard earned money ten years ago, and so a lot of people hated Rebecca for it, despite how she had only been six years old at the time, but I still think something was fishy about that, Rebecca,” a prisoner insisted. “You've seen both the dark side and light side of this country. You've been helping us for years since Diamante started training you here-”

“Diamante-san,” Rebecca corrected softly.

“Wait!” Luffy cut in. “I don't get it. You didn't do any of that stuff, so why do people blame you?”

“Because I'm his granddaughter.”

All Luffy could see for a moment was Ace, angry and ashamed of Roger, and it made Luffy grit his teeth.

“But what he did has nothing to do with you!” Luffy insisted.

“I know that!” Rebecca snapped. “But not everyone else sees it that way. They can't take their anger out on the old king, so I'm their best target. At least all they can do is yell, since I'm a Donquixote, but if I hadn't been with them they would have all killed me long ago.”

Rebecca bit her lip. “Well, that or they have me fighting permanently in here. That way they could make a blood sport out of it. Or set me on fire. I am the shame of Dressrosa after all.” Rebecca shook her head and laughed bitterly.

Luffy gritted his teeth. How could they say that to her? Rebecca was kind! Very kind! She was caring for all these guys when, if what they said was true, nobody else did. There wasn't a reason for Rebecca to do that. She wasn't getting anything out of it. She even bought Luffy food and she didn't even know him!

Rebecca just wanted to help.

“Who the hell is saying that to you?” Luffy seethed.

“Most of the people of the country.”

“Then I'll beat them up!”

Rebecca laughed softly. “That would be a funny sight, but I'm used to it. Diamante-san makes sure to let them yell at me for a while whenever I'm in the coliseum matches to toughen me up and harden my heart, so I'm getting better at ignoring them.”

“That's horrible!”

“So is the world,” Rebecca said, smiling as she left the cells, locking them up behind her. “I'll need to cut my visit short, but good luck on your next match, Lucy. You can stay in the prison until it begins. I won't lock the main door, but I can't leave the cells unlocked.”

Luffy watched her leave and quickly finished up his food. That was it. He was going to beat the crap out of that Mingo for upsetting Law, for tormenting them with Ace, and now for Rebecca. Rebecca didn't deserve any of this! If he really cared about her, Mingo would make these assholes stop saying nasty things about her when it was her grandfather that caused all that trouble.

Chapter Text

Law hit the tree with a choked gasp. Immediately more string wrapped around him, pinning him to the tree bark. Shit, he had been caught. Law managed to keep Kikoku against the string, but that only gave Law a bit of room to squirm.

“It's no use, Law.” Doflamingo said, approaching him. “You can't buy any more time. Your alliance was a waste of your energy.”

Law gritted his teeth as Doflamingo shadowed him, towering over him. “How so?”

“I already have Straw Hat right where I want him. He's currently fighting in my coliseum to get the Mera Mera no Mi,” Doflamingo said.

Law froze. “What?”

Doflamingo grinned sharply. “Yes. I have the Mera Mera no Mi. Portgas D. Ace's devil fruit.”

Law felt the blood drain from his face. No way. Ace was dead? He couldn't be... not like this... Law gritted his teeth. He couldn't wallow in despair right now. Not when it would only amuse Doflamingo. Law had to be strong.

“You-” Law scowled, grimacing when Doflamingo grabbed his neck, squeezing warningly.

“Shh. Y'know, before I took his devil fruit, I made sure to get a photograph of Portgas D. Ace. I haven't showed it to Straw Hat yet of course, but I'll let you see your old friend one last time.” Doflamingo reached into his pocket with his free hand, and pulled out a photograph.

Ace was walking beside one of the Five Elders in Mariejois, the pair in full conversation. Law gasped softly, staring at the photo. Ace looked healthy. He looked safe even. There was no anger on his face, nor any chain from what Law could see binding him.

Ace looked like he was there willingly.

It must be to do with whatever called the clan witches up there. Ace must have seen whoever or whatever it was.

But that was then. If Ace no longer had his devil fruit then what had happened to him between this photograph and now? What had gone so wrong?

Law paused when Doflamingo's thumb brushed over his neck, right over his pulse. He didn't press his thumb in or anything thankfully, but Law was surprised at how gentle his touch was.

“When Straw Hat loses, it will be a one way ticket to hell for him,” Doflamingo said. “He will never come out alive from the coliseum. He will die. It's the end of your alliance.” Doflamingo's grin widened. “And do you want to know something else, little Law?”

Law scowled. “What?”

“My men, led by Vergo, ambushed a certain Vice Admiral's ship at three o'clock this afternoon,” Doflamingo said gleefully. “I wonder what Vergo will do to Rosinante once he sees him. Fufufufufu, probably beat him into a bloody mess!”

“You bastard-” Law gasped when Doflamingo squeezed his hand, cutting him off.

Law coughed and gasped the moment Doflamingo loosened his grip around his neck, his thumb brushing reassuringly over it again.

“Mind your manners,” Doflamingo chided. “Now, you stay here like a good child while I go retrieve Caesar. When you wake up, you might even see Rosinante for one final time, until I shoot him in the head in front of you.”

Law felt Doflamingo's hand tighten again, intent on choking him unconscious, but Law opened up a room and managed to croak out a shambles. He landed on the beach's outskirts, coughing and gasping, rubbing his throat. There was a snow storm going on across the beach, but he could see that Ikkaku and Penguin were working together on that problem.

The next unfortunate problem was that Doflamingo went after the Straw Hats on the Thousand Sunny and the Heart Pirates on the Polar Tang that was now sailing beside them. Dammit, they still hadn't sailed away yet!

“I'm just going to go ahead and massacre the Straw Hats over there and take back Caesar! You stay there and watch, Law!” Doflamingo laughed, racing towards the ships, far faster than Law could keep up.

“Leave them alone, Doflamingo! They have nothing to do with this!” Law yelled.

Thankfully Sanji swooped in and saved the day. Just in time too.

.::.

“That damn Jora distracted us for too long,” Jean Bart cursed. “Hurry, Straw Hats! Let's set sail!”

“Right!”

“I've given you a piece of my vivre card, just make sure you follow me,” Bepo said.

Bepo frowned over at the beach side where he could see the snow storm where Ikkaku and Penguin were fighting, while Law distracted Doflamingo once again by the bridge, having driven him back from Sanji by taking Jora hostage.

“Please be careful,” Bepo pleaded. “Make sure you all come back home.”

He didn't want to lose his family.

.::.

Luffy startled when something crashed into the ground outside the coliseum. A huge column of smoke rose in the air, but Luffy could feel the hakis. It was Law, Penguin and Ikkaku. They were all here. The smoke finally cleared, and Luffy gasped. Traffy, Ikkaku and Penguin laid in a crater, all bloodied and bruised and all collapsed in the middle. Law was over the pair of them too. He had tried to protect them.

“Traffy!” he yelled

“Law! Penguin! Ikkaku!” Shachi screamed. He stood beside Zoro and Kin'emon, his eyes with horror. He began to run forward, but Zoro yanked him back, and string crashed into the place Shachi had stepped on to a second later, cutting deep into the ground. Doflamingo landed right before the crater, face cold. That green haired woman from Punk Hazard flew down on a gush of snow behind him, frowning.

“Shit!” Zoro cursed.

Luffy yelled. “What! Mingo-”

Surprisingly it was Ikkaku who was up first, and she threw a dagger right at Doflamingo's head. Doflamingo knocked it out the way with his fist and aimed a gun at her head. Ikkaku went pale as the shots fired off.

Luffy screamed. “TRAFFY!”

Law had threw himself in front of her and Luffy froze when he saw blood splatter.

“NO!” Ikkaku screamed as Law hit the ground.

“Law-” Penguin reached for him.

Doflamingo kicked them both across the street and Penguin and Ikkaku went crashing through a wall, the pair both going limp. No way, their haki was quiet, too quiet. Luffy gritted his teeth. Shachi looked devastated, then gritted his teeth and raised his gun and fired a shot at Doflamingo's head. Doflamingo tilted his head aside and smirked as the bullets went flying by.

“Fufufufu! Such feisty things Law's crew mates are.”

“Get the fuck away from my Captain,” Shachi said coldly.

“Fufufufu, I'm sorry to bother you all,” Doflamingo said suddenly to the gathered crowd, while Shachi's face darkened even further. “He's a Warlord and pirate, Trafalgar Law, who was responsible for those false reports this morning about my abdication.”

The crowd cheered at that, but Luffy ignored them.

“Hey, Mingo!” Luffy yelled. “How dare you shoot Traffy!”

“Straw Hat, it's none of your business-” Doflamingo cursed when Shachi shot at his feet this time to try drive him back from Law. “Enough, you brat!” He threw a bolt of string at Shachi, but thankfully Zoro dragged him aside in time and it went crashing into the ground just before the coliseum wall, only ripping through Shachi's shoulder instead of his chest, earning a pained scream. “Stop causing such a fuss. Law was my subordinate long before he was your Captain. I'm just punishing my witch for being disobedient.”

Zoro and Kin'emon raced into action. “Kin, grab Traffy!” Zoro ordered, heading straight for Doflamingo.

.::.

Shachi's mind was racing. Law was down. Ikkaku was down. Penguin was down. This couldn't be happening. Law had just been shot! He tried to get up, to move, but his shoulder was bleeding fast and it made his hands slippery on the ground and his head dizzy. Shachi was forced to put pressure on his wounds instead and do his best to shuffle forward.

Those three had done their best to distract Doflamingo and yet the Straw Hats hadn't destroyed the factory. Luffy had thrown himself into an entirely separate event, (yes, he knew it was for Ace, but Law could be dying right now) and Franky outright stated that he didn't trust Law and refused to go along with the plan. They never should have made this alliance. It was a mistake.

Doflamingo kicked Kin'emon away with a smirk, then knelt down beside Law and scooped him up.

“I'm coming!” Luffy said, then gripped the bars of the coliseum and went limp. “Nooooo... Seastone...”

Shachi bit back a curse. Luffy had gotten himself trapped.

If Law, Penguin or Ikkaku died here Shachi would never forgive Luffy, no matter how long he had known the kid for. He wouldn't forgive him, nor would Shachi forgive himself. Luffy knew how important it was to defeat Doflamingo here. They had all seen Law fall apart when Doflamingo had taken over Dressrosa all those years ago, back when Dragon-san had visited them as kids. Luffy had no excuses. Being a reckless dumbass wasn't good enough. Not now. Not in this situation. Shachi ignored the pain and forced himself to stand up and stumble towards Ikkaku and Penguin, even as everything span. He landed on his knees next to them after what felt like hours. He could see hundreds of white blurs, some heading his way, and a lot of shouting, but Shachi ignored it in favour of bringing out a teleportation amulet. They were only in the way here now. None of them could move fast. They would be surrounded by marines.

He teleported himself, Ikkaku and Penguin away. He needed to heal them with one of Law's potions. They needed to heal then regroup and fight back.

They would get Law back.

They had to.

Chapter Text

Isuka stumbled up to the beach, dragging two of her men out of the ocean with her. A team of men in black outfits had attacked their ship. There had been no way to identify them either, none of them had used any devil fruits. They had attacked and sunk their ship, and the one with a blackened bamboo stick got up close to her sniper wielding Vice Admiral and beat the shit out of him before any of them could do anything.

Rosinante of course managed to land a few hits of his own, but the bamboo guy distracted him somehow. It had made Rosinante freeze for a split second, and of course the bastard knocked her Vice Admiral out cold.

Their ship had then been blown up as the twenty men escaped with Rosinante's unconscious body. Isuka had managed to get her men evacuated off the ship, but it forced them to swim to shore. Not all of her men were the best swimmers, so Isuka booted people out of the ocean and on to land then dragged the last two weaker swimmers with her.

“Someone make a report to Admiral Fujitora!” Isuka ordered. “Vice Admiral Rosinante has been kidnapped, and his kidnappers were dressed all in black covert outfits. We don't know where he's been taken.”

Isuka had a feeling she knew though. Rosinante must have been taken by Donquixote Doflamingo's men.

Those damn pirates.

.::.

It was far too tempting to beat Rosinante into an early grave, but Vergo refrained from doing so. He dumped Rosinante's unconscious, limp form on the Heart Seat and chained him to it with seastone shackles, binding both his hands and feet. Vergo grimaced at the bullet wounds, they were throbbing, and Vergo swore he was feeling dizzy.

He hadn't lost that much blood.

“I put some poison on those bullets I shot you with,” Rosinante said, chuckling wearily as he looked up, spitting out a mouthful of blood. “It looks like it's taken affect.”

Vergo growled. “You little rat...”

Rosinante smirked. “You went after me first. I was just here for Law.”

Vergo managed a cold laugh. “Doffy's witch?”

Rosinante's smirk fell, his face turning murderous. “Law is my son. Not Doffy's witch.”

“He was Doflamingo's first until you stole him,” Vergo said, groaning when the room swayed. He stumbled back and leaned against the wall. “What did you poison me with?”

“That would be telling.” Rosinante's voice sounded further away, but he sounded amused.

Vergo's feet slipped out from beneath him, but before he lost consciousness a familiar arm caught him. Vergo slumped against Doflamingo, he tried to meet his gaze, but his head was growing heavier and heavier, and everything went black.

.::.

“What did you do to Vergo?” Doflamingo asked sharply, gently lowering Vergo to the floor.

He still had Law in his free arm, he was still unconscious, breathing softly. Rosinante must have noticed, because he went still, his haki spiking agitatedly.

Rosinante looked livid. “Why the hell would I care about Vergo? What the hell did you do to Law?!” Rosinante's breath hitched. “There's blood. You shot my son! When I get out of these chains, Doflamingo, I swear-”

“You'll what?” Doflamingo scoffed, laying Law on the carpet beside Vergo. He took both their wrists and felt their pulses, relieved that both were steady, before cuffing Law's hands with seastone shackles. “Nevertheless, the bullets weren't real. They were merely sedatives I shot him with. Law will simply sleep for a while.”

Doflamingo wiped away the 'blood' on Law's chest with a brush of his thumb. There were no wounds, except for a few small puncture marks were the needles dug into Law. He didn't want to cause Law harm, he was his witch after all, but the brat was stubborn and kept fighting him. It was getting tedious. So a time out would do Law some good.

Rosinante had been pale, but slumped against the Heart Seat, relieved at the sight. Doflamingo scowled at him.

“What poison did you use on Vergo?” Doflamingo demanded.

“I'll tell you what, you get me out of these chains, let me take Law, and I'll tell you when Law and I are far away from here,” Rosinante ordered sharply, glaring.

“Fufufufu, or I could use you against Law,” Doflamingo said, standing up to approach Rosinante. “I bet he'll be more than willing to heal Vergo once he wakes up, and sees you chained to the Heart Seat, with my gun pressed to your forehead.”

“You bastard-” Rosinante bristled.

“You, little brother, have been a thorn at my side for years now, and what was even worse is that you kidnapped my witch and turned him against me. You might not know how important he is to our family, but he is very important.”

“Because he's a clan witch-”

“He's a Trafalgar witch,” Doflamingo corrected.

“So what?” Rosinante's brow furrowed.

Doflamingo smirked. “For a spy, you really don't know much, do you, Rosinante?” Doflamingo walked away towards Law again. “Not that it matters right now. I want Vergo healed.”

“Get away from Law!” Rosinante hissed.

Doflamingo ignored him and knelt down, shaking Law firmly. It did help the kid stir a bit, and Doflamingo left just enough space at his side so that Law could see Rosinante clearly enough.

“Wake up, Law,” Doflamingo ordered, watching his eyes struggle open, they were foggy and he was barely awake, but it would do for now. “You can see Rosinante, can't you?”

A bit of awareness returned to Law's eyes at that, he blinked heavily again and frowned, his brow furrowing.

“Cora-” Law mumbled drowsily, but Doflamingo cut him off.

“If you don't want me to put a bullet in his brain, then I need you to heal Vergo,” Doflamingo said firmly, helping Law sit up to face Vergo, he even laid Law's hand on Vergo's arm. “Do that, and I won't put a bullet in Rosinante's head.”

“Law, no, don't-” Rosinante began, then flinched when Doflamingo fired a shot just above his head. Law flinched in his arms, but Doflamingo didn't let him turn back. “Shit!” Rosinante cursed.

“Heal him now,” Doflamingo ordered. “Or the next one won't miss.”

“Leave him alone, Doflamingo. He doesn't have to do a thing you say!” Rosinante bristled.

“Seastone...” Law complained.

“You don't need the cuffs off to use your magic, so don't even bother protesting against those,” Doflamingo chided. “You've got three seconds, Law, or I'll plant a bullet in my traitorous brother's head and then we can watch him bleed. One-”

Law shakily sat up a bit more, leaning heavily against Doflamingo's free arm. He did steady Law as he pressed his hand more firmly on Vergo's arm, and Doflamingo watched Law's magic steadily slip into Vergo. Doflamingo could see the white magic slipping from Law's hands and into Vergo's body, purifying the poison.

Most people wouldn't be able to see that unless Law was using a powerful form of healing magic. Not unless they were a head witch themselves, and a strong witch at that, but Doflamingo was a Donquixote, and their bloodline would always see a Trafalgar's magic.

Doflamingo smirked at the thought. He was surprised Rosinante never had thought to question that before, but maybe he had never noticed that nobody else could see Law's magic flowing through his body. A few minutes went by, Rosinante's protests finally growing quiet, as Vergo began to stir.

The magic abruptly left Law's hands and his eyes drifted shut. He slumped against Doflamingo's arm, on the verge of passing out again. That had exhausted whatever energy Law had left then. Doflamingo laid Law against his chest and caressed his hair.

“Good boy,” Doflamingo praised. “You just won Rosinante's safety for a bit longer.”

Law mumbled something, but it was unclear, and he slipped back into unconsciousness again, just as Vergo sat up, grimacing.

“Feeling better? Not very often I have to save you from a fainting spell, fufufufufufu!” Doflamingo teased.

“Thank you, Doffy,” Vergo said. “I don't feel weak anymore. I'm not sure if Law purified all of the poison out of me just yet though.”

“We'll work on that again later after Law's rested for a bit,” Doflamingo offered, laying Law back down on the carpet. “For now we best let him sleep off the exhaustion.”

A knock at the doors made them both pause, and Doflamingo smiled when Rebecca entered the room with two guards. The men had the old king Riku with them. Doflamingo's grin sharpened at that.

“Hello, Rebecca,” Doflamingo greeted.

“Hi, Young Master.” Rebecca smiled warmly. “I brought the old king with me like you asked.”

“Rebecca, please,” Riku begged. “You're my granddaughter, Scarlett was your mother! Diamante murdered her-”

Rebecca scowled. “Which is all your fault. You're the one who tried to steal everyone's money, and set their homes on fire. Besides, it was the angry mobs of people that killed her, so don't go blaming someone else.”

“Dressrosa's people wouldn't do such a horrible thing. Rebecca, they all loved your mother very much. They are kind people-”

“I wouldn't call them that,” Rebecca scoffed, crossing her arms. “Considering all the death threats I've had over the years by those so called 'kind' people for something that happened when I was six years old.”

“Thank you, Rebecca,” Doflamingo said, approaching her to ruffle her hair. She beamed at him. Riku looked livid, but he was all bark and no bite.

“It was no problem, Young Master.”

“As a reward I think we should get you a new sword,” Doflamingo chuckled. “How does the legendary blade Shusui sound?”

Rebecca pouted. “That's a cheat present, Doffy!”

Doflamingo cackled. “Fufufufufu! How?”

“You're not buying it for me, you're just stealing it off Roronoa's corpse!”

“Oh? So you don't want it then?” Doflamingo teased.

“I do! I do!” Rebecca laughed. “Thank you, Doffy.”

“Fufufufufu, no problem at all. Now run along. Go hang out with Baby-5 and try keep her from marrying herself off to someone else.”

“I think I'll need another sword for that-” Rebecca began, much to Doflamingo's amusement.

“Shoo.”

“Yes, Young Master,” Rebecca laughed softly, then walked out the suit chamber as her men chained Riku to a pillar and left after her.

Doflamingo made sure she was far away with his haki before grinning at King Riku. “Your granddaughter has grown into a beautiful young lady, hasn't she? Thanks for the edition to my family. She's been a jewel to us.”

King Riku bristled. “If I could have saved her from you I would have. Damn you, you executed her mother in the streets and stole Rebecca.”

“Monet found Rebecca cold and starving in a field,” Doflamingo chuckled. “You say stole? I say saved. If nobody had found that poor girl, she would have died then and there, withering away into nothing but skin and bone.”

“I hope you don't blame yourself, King Riku,” Rosinante said, glowering at Doflamingo. “That's what Doflamingo does. He takes them in young and brainwashes them. The younger the better, they're more easier to control and manipulate. I was lucky because I took Law away before he could be entirely brainwashed, but unfortunately Rebecca never stood a chance, along with half these children Doflamingo's stolen.”

Rosinante winced when Vergo smacked his head. “Don't disrespect Doffy.”

Doflamingo smirked. “Now here is the real thief.” Doflamingo circled Rosinante's chair. “This one kidnapped Law from me when he was a child, and turned him against me.” He approached Law's limp form, still asleep on the floor. “Law was supposed to be my right hand man. My witch, yet Rosinante took him from his home and brainwashed him.”

“Don't you dare try to turn this around on me, you ass,” Rosinante scoffed.

Vergo whacked him again, much to Doflamingo's amusement.

“I think I preferred it when you didn't talk,” Doflamingo admitted, and walked over to grip Rosinante's jaw. “I'd advise you stay still, but I don't care either way. This is going to sting.”

Rosinante gritted his teeth, but to his credit he didn't so much as hiss painfully as Doflamingo stitched his lips shut, nor tear up. He looked murderous instead. It was a funny look on him. They both knew Rosinante couldn't do anything about this. He was as weak as their father.

“Now, I'm more curious about you,” Doflamingo admitted, turning to Riku once he was finished stitching Rosinante's lips shut. “You entered the competition today to get the fruit, just as your tramp of a daughter betrayed me too. You probably joined in some emotional state because of what happened this morning right? I bet you felt like all your hopes and dreams had been dashed. Fufufufufu! Well you can thank Law and his alliance with the Straw Hats for that one. I needed to trick him for a while. I bet your bitch of a daughter is hoping Trafalgar Law and Monkey D. Luffy's alliance will defeat me.”

Doflamingo smirked down at Law. “But Law is captured now, at my mercy, and Straw Hat will never leave the coliseum as a human again. As for the others, the Heart Pirates, Penguin, Shachi and Ikkaku are all down, even if they escaped capture, while the Straw Hats... Cyborg Franky is fighting alone at the Toy House, but I don't think he can beat the executives of my family. The rest are still unaccounted for, but I doubt they can reach the underground level. All my pain in the asses have been taken care of. It's over now.”

He knelt down and scooped Law back up into his arm, hoisting him over his shoulder. “Vergo, I'm going to go take care of this problematic child for now. Call me if it's an emergency.”

“Of course, Doffy.”

Rosinante struggled against the shackles, protests muffled, but Doflamingo ignored him. He was of no threat after all. He'd be dealt with once he watched everything crumble down around him. It would be pretty amusing to watch all his failures come to bite him all at the same time. He never saved Dressrosa from him, and now Law was home, right by Doflamingo's side again. It was the perfect punishment for the traitorous rat.

.::.

Thatch kept an eye on Cornelia as she was led to medical. Someone screaming in absolute pain caused everyone to startle though and look at the man. Thatch eyed Cornelia, and she nodded and disappeared the moment everyone was distracted.

He didn't like any of this. He hadn't felt any of the other contestants leave this place through the front doors they all entered. Where the hell did they go?

He supposed it didn't matter right now. Cornelia had hidden herself, much to the staff's confusion. They were all now looking for her. Thatch only shrugged when they asked him where she had went too.

“The little girl's room?” he offered.

He grinned once they were away walked off. Thatch was a little excited for the next match. Not only was it the finals, but it was also his chance to gut Burgess and carve out his organs. Maybe he'd cook them too and feed them to Teach.

Chapter Text

Ikkaku had to admit, if she had been told that she'd be helping a marine a week ago, she would have been sceptical. Penguin, Shachi and Ikkaku were running along the streets with Nailing Isuka, the marine who hunted down Ace for years, trying to covert him into a marine. It never worked, but Ikkaku always thought it was amusing how persistent she was. They had used all their healing potions up to recover from their last fight, but Ikkaku still felt every ache in her bones. No doubts Penguin felt the same way, and Shachi's shoulder looked rough, even after stitches and bandages.

“So they kidnapped Cora-san too?” Penguin frowned.

“Yes, but I can't outright blame them without proof,” Isuka sighed. “Fujitora has already said he didn't hear Rosinante when he was in the palace, and that his haki hadn't picked him up either. I'll eat my left boot if it wasn't the Donquixote Family who took Rosinante though.”

“And the reason you're running with us is...?” Ikkaku raised a brow.

“You're working with the Straw Hats,” Isuka said. “Straw Hat already broke in to Impel Down once, and they destroyed Enies Lobby, so I'm quite hopeful that they'll break into the palace too.”

“The beautiful lady has got a point,” Shachi mused.

“Not the time, Shachi!” Ikkaku scolded.

“What? Can you blame me?” Shachi complained.

“She is very pretty!” Penguin agreed.

Isuka blushed.

“Our Captain has been kidnapped and you two are going to just admire a beautiful woman instead?” Ikkaku scowled.

“You're very pretty too-”

“THAT IS NOT THE PROBLEM HERE!”

.::.

Doflamingo bit into this thumb and smeared his blood over the brick wall before him. It glowed white briefly, white lines spreading over the wall, forming into the shape of a heart. The doors formed into the wall, and the heart slowly began to open up, revealing a secret passageway. It was right at the back of the castle gardens, hidden safely among the plants and palm trees. Doflamingo climbed the stairs down as the doors shut behind them, hiding the entrance once more. The stairs spiralled deep underground, right until Doflamingo was stopped by another door.

Law remained asleep against his shoulder, as Doflamingo smeared his bloodied thumb across the door. It did the same as before, a glowing white heart outline spread across the door and it opened up. This time it revealed a chamber. It was a wide, circular room, with pillars that had runes carved into it surface. White lines ran through the walls of the circular room, crossing behind bookcases filled with books and scrolls. Somehow, despite being deep underground, the ceiling still brightened the chamber with sunlight. The floor was covered in grass and flowers ran across the edge of the chamber. Doflamingo smirked and brought Law inside, the door sealing shut behind him. Good, nobody would disturb them.

He laid Law down on the grass right at the centre of the circular room then sat down across from him, leaning against one of the runic pillars, setting his den den mushi beside him. He had told everyone not to disturb him unless it was an emergency, after all, he and Law had a lot to talk about.

.::.

Rosinante didn't like any of this. Doflamingo had taken away Law, and Rosinante couldn't do anything about it, not chained up like this at least. He couldn't even protest with his mouth sewn shut. The bastard. If he hurt Law there would be hell to pay. Doflamingo wouldn't be shown any mercy.

The Suit Chamber was certainly getting busier. Vergo sat across from him now, on a chair, while Monet served him coffee. Baby-5 and Buffalo stood beside Monet too, and it pained Rosinante to see that they were still here. That he hadn't been able to save those two from Doflamingo. The girl from earlier, Riku's granddaughter, Rebecca, stood beside Vergo, watching the projection from the den den mushi of the coliseum match.

“Lucy doesn't have black hair anymore,” Rebecca murmured thoughtfully.

Vergo frowned. “What do you mean?”

“I can see some strands peaking out his helmet. It's blonde hair now,” Rebecca said. “And the scar isn't the same. It's colours are too bright.”

“Now that you have mentioned it...” Vergo scowled. “Then who is that fighting as Lucy in place of Straw Hat?”

Monet smiled warmly. “Your observational skills are as strong as ever, Rebecca.”

Rebecca grinned. “Thanks, Monet.”

“I suppose it doesn't matter either way,” Vergo mused. “Diamante will beat him.” Vergo turned to Riku and his scowl deepened. “And that traitorous Violet will be dealt with too. Doffy might forgive a mischievous child like Law because he's Doffy's witch, but he will not forgive Violet. I will beat her into down into a bloodied mess and then crush her skull beneath my boot for what she has done to Doffy today.”

Damn it all. Rosinante needed to get out of these cuffs! If Doffy hurt his son, Rosinante swore to God, he'd kill him. Mother forgive him, he would actually kill Doflamingo if he harmed Law.

.::.

Law blinked heavily. Everything was quiet. He felt soothed and relaxed, despite the exhaustion nagging at him. Doflamingo was sat on the grass across from him, leaning against some kind of pillar with runes carved into it. A witch's ritual pillar? Law groaned and rubbed his forehead. Shit, it was hard to think. Those sedatives he had been shot with were making his head woozy.

“Do you recognise this room, Law?” Doflamingo asked.

Law pushed himself up to sit with shaky hands. “It makes it harder to do anything when you drug me...” Law complained warily, but eyed the room, his brow furrowing.

It felt... safe? Law frowned at the thought. He could feel his ancestors stirring, their magic fluttering through him. They all recognised this place, as he did too, but Law had never been here before. He knew that for certain.

“Fufufufu, you'll be fine,” Doflamingo said, surprisingly softly. “I just wanted to keep you from fussing for a little while.”

Law frowned. “I've never been here before,” he finally answered. “But I do recognise it...”

Doflamingo smirked. “Of course you would. Do you remember the words 'Witch Sanctuary'?”

Law gasped, flinching. That had sent a jolt of magical energy right through him.

“I thought you would, even subconsciously,” Doflamingo mused. “Long ago when an witch heir was born, they would be born in here, among these stone runes, and they would later on come back here when they were twelve, with their grimoire, then once again in their thirties when they became a head witch. It was apart of their ageing process to become a proper head of their clan, but many of them were lost over the years. They are filled with books your ancestors have gathered over the years, and the runes were said to be able to help enhance any spell that you cast in this room.”

“And you knew it was here?” Law frowned.

“This one, yes.” Doflamingo chuckled. “These sanctuaries have been under certain people's protection for hundreds of years. The Nicos was hidden on Ohara, under the scholar's protection, while your one was hidden here in Dressrosa by the royal family that had ran the kingdom before the Rikus.”

Law tensed. “Your family.”

“Exactly.” Doflamingo smirked “Our connection runs much deeper than you think, Law. Marshall D. Teach once tried to copy this idea by spilling his blood on Portgas D. Ace's grimoire, to take control of him. The Donquixote King and the Trafalgar head of hundreds of years ago bound our blood together with the same technique. This ritual was set out to protect the Trafalgar Sanctuary, only one of us can access this room.”

Law grimaced. “What's the point in telling me this?”

“The point is that we're bound together by blood,” Doflamingo said. “You will always be my witch.”

“As fascinating as this all is, I'm more concerned about what you've done with Rosinante,” Law admitted.

“He's fine. I left him on the heart chair.”

“Isn't that rude to Vergo?” Law grumbled.

“He put Rosinante there.” Doflamingo smirked.

“But you're petty enough to suggest it.”

“Rude,” Doflamingo chuckled. “Fufufufufu, but I brought you in here for more than just a history lesson, Law. You would have known all this had Rosinante not kidnapped you, but still, I suppose now is a better time than any.”

Law tested his chains, but they held him fast and kept draining him of his energy. There was no way he was going to be able to break out of them alone. Law gasped when Doflamingo grabbed his shoulders and pushed him down to lie on the grass, and flinched when the pillars glowed.

What was he doing? How was Doflamingo tapping into the magic in here?

“Your devil fruit-” Doflamingo began.

Law narrowed his eyes. “Let me guess, you want me to give you eternal life?”

“Fufufufu, indeed-”

“That sucks for you then. I'm not killing myself to give it to you,” Law snapped.

Doflamingo smirked. “If you stopped interrupting me, I could tell you, Law.” He raised his hand, and Law frowned and tried to twist his head away, but Doflamingo's hand covered his eyes. “Shh, hush now. Listen.”

A wave of magical energy jolted through Law, and a gasp tore out of him. The darkness of Doflamingo's hand slowly disappeared, and Law found himself standing at a beach instead. Those two from one of his older visions, Levi and Ann, stood before him, at the edge of the beach, talking to a shadowy figure in the ocean.

“So you're creating devil fruits?” Levi chuckled. “How interesting.”

Ann laughed. “That sounds awesome!”

“Yes, but those who consume it will have the sea turn against them,” the shadow said.

“Boo,” Ann complained.

“It makes them less overpowered I suppose,” Levi mused.

“Boo!” Ann continued.

“Oh shut up, Portgas,” Levi scoffed, crossing his arms.

“I want them to be apart of people's hopes and desires. A way for people's dreams to come true!” the shadow continued, they sounded delighted.

“I think it sounds like great fun.” Ann grinned, and all Law could see was Ace for a second. His grin lighting up his face. “Here.” She lit her finger on fire and held it out. “Can you use my fire? I think a fire fruit would be great!”

“Or perhaps some kind of healing fruit?” Levi mused. “It would need to be like an operation room where a doctor could work on people with all types of medical difficulties.”

Ann's face scrunched up. “Sounds so complicated.”

“Just go back to your fire, you cavewoman.”

“Rude! I could do lightning too, or sand, or water-”

“These are such great ideas, you two,” the shadow laughed. “I'm sure Joy Boy will get a kick out of this!”

Levi smirked. “He'll bite the first one he sees.”

“Oh yeah,” Ann laughed.

“I should copyright this as your work,” the shadow chuckled. “The elemental fruits created by Portgas D. Ann, and the Operation Room created by Trafalgar D. Water Levi. Yes! It's perfect!”

The skies darkened and lightning flashed, the ocean waves crashing around behind the shadow figure.

“I can picture it now! A person turning into flames. A room opening up to heal others and treat their pain. Lightning, sand, light, darkness, the possibilities are endless!”

Levi sighed. “Well that's you busy now.”

“When the time comes, I'll deliver them to you both.”

“Huh?” Levi blinked.

Ann beamed. “Really?!”

“But you'll only be allowed to choose one fruit!” the shadow insisted. “You can't have all of them, Ann! I'm only doing this because these amplify your witch clan abilities. Ann will literally become one of her elements with this fruit, while you, Levi, will be able to treat anyone in the world and cure them of anything. No disease will hurt you, nor any injury for long. You can cure them all!”

Law inhaled sharply at the thought.

Amber Lead. The Ope Ope no Mi had cured his Amber Lead Disease.

“I'm in love with this idea already. I should create one for all the witch clans as a tribute to them all. Something to help their magical abilities!” the shadow cheered. “I'm so excited!”

“And immortality?” a voice asked from behind them all.

Law flinched. A wave of comfort and safety wrapped around him, like a warm blanket. All Law could see was another shadow behind him, tall and strong, with red eyes. But Law felt safe. He didn't feel like he was in danger.

“Anyone could do it with this fruit, but the cost will be their life,” the shadow from the ocean said. “Except for the Trafalgar's. I will make it that they can do it once, because it is their devil fruit, and then they cannot access that ability again.”

“Is that something you're interested in, Imu?” Levi asked. “Immortality?”

“I think so.”

Law gasped softly as Doflamingo removed his hand, staring down at him with a thoughtful frown. He could see the Witch Sanctuary again. There was no more beach.

“You saw, didn't you?” Doflamingo said softly, ruffling his hair. “The sea devil and the clan heads made the devil fruits together, or at least some of them. They had specific ones that belonged to each of the clans. Yours was the Ope Ope no Mi.”

Law frowned. “You want me to give you immortality, yet somehow you knew that it wouldn't cost me my life?”

“Back when I was in Mariejois, I was taught quite a bit of this as a child,” Doflamingo revealed. “The knowledge about our connection to the Trafalgar Clan was passed down in a journal, made by the last Donquixote King before me, the one who helped protect this sanctuary for the Trafalgar Clan, and I discovered your devil fruit's connection when I first accessed this sanctuary. Rosinante was too young to learn about it, and didn't get to after our father dragged us out of Mariejois and cast us down to this hell. So I am the only one out of us who knew about all this.”

Doflamingo's face darkened. “It's why you're my witch, Law. I'm the one who knows everything about our history. You're mine.”

Law closed his eyes and rested his head against the grass. Doflamingo was still caressing his hair, but he remained silent too now. Law didn't know what to do about this. This was too much information at once. But he knew one thing. Doflamingo would use Rosinante against him. He would make sure Law had no choice but to perform the eternal operation on him. However, now Law knew his life wouldn't be at risk. If he did this though, he'd be Doflamingo's prisoner forever. Doflamingo would never let him go.

Dammit. He didn't know what to do.

Chapter Text

Levi walked through the main doors into the throne room, staring up at a tall man with blonde hair. He wore a dark blue suit with a long cloak and had a golden crown upon his head, which was close to falling off with the way the man lounged on the throne he pretty much laid on. He had his legs swung over the armrest, and had one of the Tontatta Tribe in his hands. He was tossing the dwarf between his hands, smirking as Levi approached.

“You terrorising people again?” Levi scoffed. “You have problems, Donquixote Mancha.”

“Trafalgar Levi!” Mancha greeted warmly. “My favourite witch.”

Levi scoffed. “Too much enthusiasm.”

“Don't be such a grump. I'm just bored.” Mancha chuckled, tossing the dwarf at a wall.

Levi winced when the poor dwarf hit the wall with a splat, and automatically went to go help them, but Mancha was quicker. Levi choked when he was picked up by the back of his jacket and dumped down on the armrest of the throne. Levi scowled and shuffled his coat back on properly, glowering at Mancha who grinned and sat back down on his throne.

“What are you plotting?” Levi asked.

“Hm?” Mancha tilted his head.

“You have someone ready to stab Joy Boy in the back, don't you?” Levi hissed.

“Never mind that, Levi.” Mancha smirked. “We should be celebrating instead. Step father is going to protect your sanctuary-”

“Mancha-” Levi scowled.

“Imu already helped me seal it with my blood and yours, so your sanctuary can only be opened by one of us now,” Mancha continued. “That should keep you safe.”

With Mancha's blood and his? But Levi didn't remember taking part in that ritual. Had Imu taken some of Levi's blood without him realising it? That was a troubling thought.

“Or bind me to your bloodline,” Levi bristled. “That's what Imu is doing, right? Making sure to bind all the clan witch bloodlines to people he trusts. He himself personally did it for Lili. Her sanctuary was moved to Mariejois. Now you're doing it for me? I'll always be influenced by you because of it. We both know that, and it won't just be me either. All of my heirs will be bound to your bloodline.”

“Is that so bad? We'd always protect you that way, Levi.” Mancha smirked. “I think it sounds perfect. I've looked after you since you were a child, I was always good friends with your parents. Very good friends...”

“Ew.” Levi wrinkled his nose.

“Fefefefefefefe, don't be a child. I loved them both very much.”

“I don't want to hear about you trying to flirt with both of them, Mancha!” Levi protested.

“Why not? Hey, you should be delighted, if we did have an active sexual relationship there would be more little Trafalgar's running around-”

“Gross, no! Shut up!”

“Fefefefefefe, you're such a child.”

Law startled awake at the sound of Doflamingo yelling.

“Is this some kind of joke?!” Doflamingo snarled.

Law eyed Doflamingo as he sat up carefully, the seastone chains brushing against his back. He must have fallen asleep at some point during Doflamingo's talk about Law being his witch. The thought made him grimace. Mancha? That must have been the last Donquixote King of Dressrosa, before the World Government became a thing. Doflamingo was sat beside him, glaring at the den den mushi. Law frowned. He swore he could hear Trebol wailing from the den den mushi.

“The servants we've been collecting for a decade are turning back into humans! The spell of the Hobi Hobi no Mi is being removed!” Trebol cried.

“Vergo-san!” Buffalo yelled. “Look at the coliseum!”

“No way!” Baby-5 gasped. “What happened to Sugar?”

Doflamingo's teeth ground so hard together that Law could actually hear them. Doflamingo's head looked just about ready to explode. Law squirmed when Doflamingo dug a cloth out from his pocket and gagged Law with it.

“That'll keep you from using any spells,” Doflamingo growled and picked him up. He quickly marched out the sanctuary, livid, and flew up towards the palace again. Immediately Doflamingo headed for the suit chamber and rushed into it, throwing open the doors to the room.

“Vergo!” Doflamingo yelled. “What the hell happened?”

“The Straw Hats knocked out Sugar,” Vergo said, growling. “All the toys are turning back into humans.”

Law was sat down on the carpet as Doflamingo went to fling open the windows. There was a lot of screaming, and the den den mushis were all going off. Law met Rosinante's gaze and let out a muffled cursed when he saw his mouth stitched up. Rosinante shook his head, eyeing the doorway, but Law ignored him. He was not going to try and escape without Rosinante. Not like this. Besides it wasn't like he was going to get very far. He was chained and gagged in the middle of Doflamingo's home.

Rebecca gasped, whirling round to stare at the coliseum, eyes wide. “No way... Kyros... he's...” she whispered.

Monet grabbed her arm, squeezing gently. “Rebecca-”

“Get away from my daughter!” a man yelled, charging out of nowhere.

“You're Kyros, aren't you?” the chained man sitting on the floor cried out.

Law had no idea who half these people were.

“Yes, sir!” Kyros swung his sword towards Doflamingo's head. “I'm sorry to keep you waiting for a decade! I'm here to save you now!”

And with a heavy swing he cut off Doflamingo's head.

Law let out a muffled gasped. He saw Rosinante flinch in the heart seat, eyes wide. Baby-5 screamed, as did Monet and Buffalo. Rebecca looked terrified and unsure. Vergo's face darkened. He looked murderous.

.::.

“Eh? Toys?!” Isuka screamed.

The toys were turning into people! Well, not just people, there were animals too!

“Why is that one a giant snake?!” Ikkaku screeched.

“I don't know, but just run!” Shachi yelled.

“This is ridiculous!” Penguin cursed. “We just want to get Law back and go home!”

.::.

“Well this is weird,” Thatch mused. “I bet Pops would be laughing his ass off right now.”

Cornelia landed beside him in the arena. “Hey, don't mind me, just interrupting the game.”

“You're one of Ace's original crew mates!” Burgess laughed. “How does it feel to know he's dead?”

Cornelia smiled sharply. “As good as it's gonna feel when I shoot you in the balls.”

“Open fire, little sister.” Thatch grinned.

Instantly she fired her sniper rifle. Burgess dodged the first round of bullets, but Cornelia was nothing if not persistent. She kept aiming for his balls.

Thatch attacked Burgess from behind, swinging his twin blades at his head. Burgess barely dodged in time. He tried to attack Thatch, but Cornelia's bullet pierced his fist, tearing right through it.

“Looks like we drew first blood,” Thatch said gleefully.

“Thatch, Cornelia, watch your backs!” Sabo yelled. “I'm going to use it! Ace's devil fruit!”

Thatch jumped back away from the arena and into the stands with Cornelia as Sabo used fire fist for the very first time. Thatch wanted to feel happy at the sight, but honestly he just felt bittersweet. He was so worried about Ace. Thatch paused when he heard Cornelia lift her sniper rifle again, blinking tears out of her eyes. Her face, which had been distressed, turned to pure ice.

“Got you.”

She fired off another round, and Thatch watched as it went sailing through the air, and shot into Burgess' crotch.

That scream was beautiful.

Now if only she could do that to Teach next.

.::.

“How dare you kill the Young Master!” Buffalo howled, lunging for Kyros. “Prepare to be blown away!”

Said Kyros broke Buffalo's neck and tossed him out the window. Law winced at the sight, then frowned at Doflamingo's body.

There was no blood.

He just had his head cut off. Why wasn't there any blood?

What the hell was going on? Rosinante noticed it too, because he looked terrified, yanking at the cuffs around his wrists and ankles.

“Buffalo!” Baby-5 screamed. “You asshole-”

Rebecca tackled her out of the way of Kyros next attack, and he hesitated. Of course he would, his daughter was still siding with Doflamingo's family. It was all she knew growing up. Law understood that perfectly well.

“Rebecca-” Kyros' voice wobbled.

Rebecca trembled, eyes burning with tears. “I can't... I don't know what to do...” she admitted.

Vergo attacked him from behind, which Kyros only just managed to block in time.

“She doesn't know you,” Vergo growled. “You're a stranger to that girl.”

“Vergo-san is right, Rebecca,” Monet said, approaching her side, eyes staring coldly at Kyros. “I'm the one who found you starving in the flower fields. I brought you home and we raised you. You might have known this man for six years of your life, but you've known us for ten. We made you into the young lady you've become today.”

“You murdered her mother and stole her from me!” Kyros snarled. “I'm taking her back!”

“Wait, Straw Hat, Violet!” Gladius' voice yelled from the corridor Luffy and another woman jumped from. “I won't let you hurt the Young Master-” Gladius choked, eyes wide and face growing paler as he stared at Doflamingo's beheaded form.

“I'll go set my father free! You help your friend, Luffy!” Violet said, rushing by where Vergo and Kyros traded blows.

“Rebecca is apart of our family,” Vergo said. “Not yours. Not when you couldn't protect her in the first place, you failure.”

“You scum!” Kyros roared. “You murdered my wife and kidnapped my daughter! I'll have your head!”

Law startled when Luffy paused next to Rosinante. “Hey, you're the guy who tried to kidnap Traffy back at Enies Lobby! Cora-san, right? Law likes you a lot, shishishishi!” Luffy's eyes bludged. “Ah! Your mouth's been stitched shut! Who did that to you?!”

Law sighed into the gag.

“Fufufufufufu!”

Everyone froze at that. Everyone except Vergo who smirked. An actual smirk? Law had never seen that man's face do anything but a frown. What the fuck? That was horrifying!

The floor slammed up and knocked Luffy away from Rosinante. His chair landed on its back, and Law winced sympathetically. That was going to give Rosinante quite the bruise later on.

“Stone guy!” Luffy yelled.

“Pica!” Violet gasped.

“I never thought it would turn out like this,” Doflamingo's head said. “How annoying. The whole country has been thrown into chaos after the toys were freed, and for whatever reason, the Revolutionary Army is here. The royal palace is a mess too.” Doflamingo growled. “It's a difficult situation. I have no choice but to use the 'Birdcage'.”

Law gasped. He swore he heard Rosinante shiver, his chains clattering.

“Right, Law?”

Law could feel Doflamingo's smirk right now.

“Creepy!” Kyros snarled and leapt at Doflamingo again. “What is dead should just stay dead!”

Except that wasn't the real Doflamingo. The real one appeared right behind Kyros mid leap, already swinging his leg. Shit, Doflamingo could make clones! He must have kept that a close secret, because Baby-5 obviously didn't know about it either. Nor Gladius. They both looked shocked!

“Do you want me to teach you how to kill someone?” Doflamingo taunted.

“Soldier!” Luffy yelled, lunging forward.

“Brother Kyros!” Violet cried.

“This is how you do it,” Doflamingo said gleefully.

Luffy only tackled Kyros down just in time as Doflamingo's kick cut through the entire palace walls and the surrounding floors, right where Kyros head would have been a mere second ago. Doflamingo and his clone both then attacked at the same time.

“There are two Young Masters?” Baby-5 gasped.

Law shivered at the thought. Yeah, that was horrifying.

The two Doflamingos were tag teaming Luffy. Shit. Law tested his restraints, but he still hadn't loosened them at all, no matter how much he struggled. He let out a muffled protest when Vergo grabbed his arm and forced him to the ground.

“Don't bother struggling, Law,” Vergo scolded. “Doffy isn't done with you.”

“Luffyland!” Kyros yelled. “What the hell is that clone?”

“It's like a marionette made of strings,” Violet breathed out. “I've never seen him use that before!”

She had gotten her father free, and looked torn between going to Rebecca or staying by her father's side. Monet looked ready to strangle Violet though, so that seemed to make Violet hesitate.

“King Riku, do you remember that night ten years ago?” Doflamingo asked. “Where you sliced up your dear citizens and burned down peaceful towns?

Riku froze up, then gritted his teeth. “I still have nightmares of it every night. So yes, of course I do! What of it?”

“The tragedy that will unfold next will not be small scale like that.” Doflamingo smirked.

“What are you saying?” Riku gasped. “No! Whatever you're planning to do, don't do it! I can't watch another tragedy unfold on these people-”

“Now it's time to let you guys go,” Doflamingo said, much to Law's surprise. “Pica! Throw these nuisances out!”

The room began to tremble all around them and Luffy, Violet, Riku and Kyros were all thrown out by Pica's hands. Law scowled. A shame he hadn't been counted among the nuisances then. Dammit. Law shared a desperate look with Rosinante. He hadn't been thrown out either. Doflamingo wasn't letting either of them go now.

The clone dropped to its knees while Doflamingo raised his hand.

“Now, let's bring everything to an end, shall we?”

Law shuddered as the clone's strings began to fly up into the air, and began to form a cage. Before the truth could be exposed to anyone else in the world, Doflamingo would kill everyone on the island.

Luffy, Ikkaku, Penguin, Shachi.

They would all be murdered.

Chapter Text

“Hey! The royal palace is going somewhere! Law's still up there!” Luffy yelled. “Stop, royal palace! Bring him back!”

He needed to get Law back, and Law's dad too, and Rebecca, because Rebecca was nice and gave him food! Doflamingo couldn't keep them. Law was not his witch, he was a free man, and Luffy was going to make sure he stayed that way.

Ace, Robin, Sanji, Law, these guys kept trying to steal away their freedom and make them 'their witch'. Crocodile had been interested in Vivi too. Luffy remembered him threatening to keep her as his witch.

Luffy wouldn't let this happen again. He wouldn't let Law lose his freedom like Ace had. He had to save Law.

.::.

The whole landscape had changed. Law didn't bother to get up and check where they were, it wasn't like he could with Vergo still holding him down. The bastard. Monet handed Doflamingo over a den den mushi as another one began to project his face across the entire island. Vergo finally let him sit back up, now that all the 'troublemakers' were away, but not without a grumbled warning to stay put.

“Citizens and guests of Dressrosa,” Doflamingo began. “I could have reigned over you all with terror from the start. After finding out the truth, I bet a great number of you wish to kill me now. That's why I prepared a game for you.” Doflamingo grinned wolfishly. “It's a game to kill me.”

Could Law compete in it? He'd love to strangle the fucker.

“I'm in the royal palace,” Doflamingo continued. “I won't run or hide. If you can take my life, the game ends there, but there is another way you can finish the game too. Here is how. You kill all the people I'm going to name now. As an award, I'll give you a big prize for killing each one of them.”

Doflamingo's grin was almost savage. “Kill or be killed. Everyone in this country will be hunters! The only way for you to survive will be to kill somebody!”

Law shared a look with Rosinante, who looked disgusted and horrified. Law rolled his eyes at the sight. What? Was he surprised that Doflamingo did actually do something like this? Rosinante must have caught on to his meaning, because he just pouted, as best as he could as a fully grown man with his mouth stitched shut. The sight of that boiled Law's blood too.

“Fufufufu, nobody's going to escape, and nobody is going to come and help you. You can't make contact with anyone out there. You're all going to die, and no one will know. Your neighbours are going to keep running wild and kill people. It doesn't matter if it's their close friend or beloved family, or citizens they swore to protect. Fufufufufu, even if you run or hide, there is no safe place in this Birdcage. The terror of the Birdcage will go on for days. It's a matter of which happens sooner, you die, or you finish the game!”

The crazy bastard. He was so damn unpredictable that it was ridiculous.

“Just think about it. You either come to kill us, or you side with us, the Donquixote Family, and punish the fools who rebelled against me, putting you through all this misery!” Doflamingo grinned. “I'll pay one hundred million beli for each star rating.”

Huh, that was generous.

Law grimaced. The One Stars were Robin, Kin'emon, Violet, Cornelia (that was the woman Ikkaku had been with during the Paramount War? What the hell? How did she get here?) and Franky.

Two Stars were Kyros, Thatch (when the hell did he get here?) and Zoro.

Three Stars were Sabo (where was everyone even coming from?), Luffy (of course, although Law kinda expected higher from him) and King Riku.

Law paused. Wait. Where were the Heart Pirates and Usopp?

“Plus, there's the man who has pissed me off the most today!” Doflamingo yelled.

Oh no.

“It's his fault that you people have to play such a terrible and bloody game! The one who kills him will get... Five millions belis!”

Law choked.

Usopp was a Five Star!

By the seas he would never survive that!

“There's no time to think about what to do. People are dying and towns are burning. It's either kill me, or all those criminals! The game is on!” Doflamingo cackled.

.::.

“I'm glad you got the fruit, Sabo.”

Sabo frowned. Everything was frozen in time. He had taken one bite of Ace's fruit and time had stopped. Now there was a fiery figure below him, sitting on the rubble. Sabo dropped down in front of the figure as the fire continued to form into a shape of a human.

In a quick flash the fire then turned into Ace.

Sabo bit his lip. “Ace...”

Ace softened. “Sorry I'm not there to see you use it personally, but I doubt I'll be free for a long time. It's taking me all my strength and willpower to even talk to you like this.”

Tears burned at Sabo's eyes and his lower lip wobbled. Fuck, was Ace really dead? Was Sabo really too late?

“I had no more need of a devil fruit so I was taught a spell that could let me release it, so to speak,” Ace said. “Thankfully it didn't require my life, because apparently the element devil fruits belong to the Portgas' to begin with.”

Sabo startled. “What?”

Ace grinned. “Weird, right? I've been learning a fair bit up here. I've gotta as a witch heir. I need to help them.”

Them?

Ace smiled warmly, his voice growing lighter. “I want to make them happy. It's all I want to do.”

Sabo gritted his teeth. Was this what Ace had suffered through with Teach as well? How many bastards were taking control over his brother dammit?

Ace let out a pained cry and shook his head. “Dammit! No! I need to think! Just a bit more time before I stop again,” he gasped. “I'm sorry, Sabo. I can't tell you anything, I can barely bring myself to do this, let alone warn you of anything that is to come. I'm sorry for that, but please, give everyone my last goodbyes. Tell them I love you all. That's all I can do now. Live your best lives. I hope...” Ace shook his head again, and grimaced. “Dammit... I'm sorry... I can't... I love you all so much, goodbye, Sabo.”

“This isn't goodbye, Ace!” Sabo yelled. “I'm coming for you. I don't care if that's today, or tomorrow, or even ten years for now. I'm coming to get you and set you free!”

Ace smiled tiredly. “I don't want you to come for me. I want you, Law and Luffy to be free, okay? I'll be okay, so don't worry about me anymore. I'm safe. I hope the Mera Mera no Mi protects you. It did so for me plenty of times.”

Sabo gritted his teeth. “I don't believe you. How is being brainwashed safe, Ace? None of this is right!”

“Try and keep Law away from Mariejois.” Ace's voice was wobbly. “I miss him too, but he'll lose his freedom if he comes here... I need to go now... They need me...”

“Who is they?” Sabo cried out.

“Goodbye.”

Sabo gritted his teeth. He had left Koala to go investigate the underground, but now that he didn't have her or Hack with him, Sabo was starting to think about that damn vision. Ace. They had him caged up. Those bastards up in Mariejois were going to pay for this.

Damn it all.

Sabo was pissed.

.::.

Rosinante scowled as Doflamingo's foot slammed down onto his chair, forcing his chair back up. Rosinante winced when his head hit the back of the chair, but it wasn't like he could rub it better now. Doflamingo smirked at him then walked over to Law, who lay asleep on the floor. He had been sedated again. Dammit, Doflamingo wasn't giving Law a chance to stay coherent for long, was he? Doflamingo picked Law up and placed him on the couch next to where Sugar lay unconscious.

“Hey, Doffy, shouldn't we protect the factory?” Trebol frowned.

“Yeah, aren't Law and the other brats after it?” Diamanate said, eyeing Law.

“They can't open the doors,” Doflamingo reassured. “They are made of seastone, and I have the keys right here.” He dug into his pocket and pulled them out, then slashed them to pieces.

“Young Master!” Baby-5 protested.

“Don't we need those to get back in?” Trebol cried.

“Our enemies don't need hope,” Doflamingo said.

“I can't believe you couldn't even protect this little girl, Trebol,” Lao G complained.

“Shut up, 'g'eezer! She's not really a little girl,” Trebol huffed. “Hey, hey, Doffy. I'm so sorry about Sugar! I didn't expect a guy with his hands and feet bound to actually manage to knock her out.”

“The same can be said of that fire fruit. I didn't expect the second in command of the Revolutionary Army to snatch it from me,” Diamante protested.

“Don't make excuses!” Lao G scolded. “So ungrateful! There's the 'g'!”

Rosinante did not miss this. God he hated these people so much.

“Let bygones be bygones, Lao G,” Doflamingo said. “Even if I blame those two, we can't change the past.”

“Thank you, Doffy!” Trebol beamed. “Nice try, Lao G!”

“I'll let you forgive me if you insist!” Diamante grinned. “But Doffy, the Navy will be a pain in the ass, like this traitorous bastard here. What should we do with Fujitora and this little rat here?”

“That rat will be taken care of once Sugar wakes up,” Doflamingo said.

Rosinante stilled. No. He wouldn't.

Doflamingo smirked at him. “Yeah, I think you got the idea, little brother of mine. I'm going to have Sugar turn you into a toy, and make everyone forget your existence. Law might cause less of a fuss once you're gone from his memories, and I certainly won't have to think about my traitorous blood ever again.” Doflamingo chuckled. “As for Fujitora, I've already spoken with him. The Navy won't come after us, but once we're done using Fujitora, he needs to be taken out.”

That's why Doflamingo hadn't added the Heart Pirates to the kill list. He would capture them to keep Law under control if he wasn't willing to work with Doflamingo after Rosinante was turned into a toy. Shit, he had to do something, but he was powerless right now and surrounded by all of Doflamingo's executives and minions. The only one who looked even remotely wavering right now was Rebecca, but that wouldn't even be about what was happening to the people of Dressrosa. It would be about her blood family vs the Donquixote Family.

“Young Master! Straw Hat Luffy and Zoro are clashing with Fujitora and the Navy right now!” a minion reported.

FUCK! Rosinante hated this!

“Is that so?” Doflamingo smirked. “Let them fight.”

“The navy and the pirates,” Pica began, his voice squeaking away.

Fuck, Rosinante forgot how funny that was.

“If you allow me to create havoc, I can take care of them myself!”

“Fufufufu, we're in no hurry, Pica. You see, this game is like an election to select their king. I asked the citizens of Dressrosa, who is more fit to be their king? The Riku family, or the Donquixote family? People choose their king. It is their legitimate right.”

“It's bothersome!” Pica protested. “We should just get rid of all the pests!”

Yeah that was how to deal with an entire country. Just crush them. Rosinante rolled his eyes. He could see how Pica's intelligence had improved over the years.

“All we have to do is repel the ones who come here to fight us, and sit back and watch as the others kill each other,” Doflamingo said.

“Doffy, I-”

There was the sound of a smothered laughed. Barely audible, but there. Of course Doflamingo and his family took that instantly to heart. They all looked murderous, but before any of them could do anything, Baby-5 murdered the subordinate and threw the man off the palace walls.

“If you handle it you'll destroy his body completely, Pica-san,” Baby-5 huffed. “Then his family can't bury him.”

“Thank you, Baby-5,” Pica said.

Everything went silent for a long time after that, a heavy, tense silence. It was only broken by Doflamingo who asked his subordinates if they had a family or not, his voice cold as ice.

“I lost my mother when I was eight, and killed my father when I was ten,” Doflamingo said.

Rosinante clenched his fists so tightly that they shook against the heart seat.

“The members who are ranked executive and above are my family who I have been through thick and thin with,” Doflamingo growled. “They are all I've got. I won't forgive anyone who laughs at my family. Got it?”

Rosinante hated Trebol and Diamante so much. They were the ones who poisoned and twisted Doffy's mind the most. He might not have been this bad if those two bastards hadn't gotten to him.

Rosinante saw Law's eyes blink open heavily. They were foggy and dull, and Rosinante couldn't do anything to help him, not even smile reassuringly. Not with his damn mouth stitched shut like this. Law's eyes drifted shut again and passed out once more.

He needed to get Law out of here. Rosinante needed to save his son from Doflamingo.

He hadn't felt this helpless in years. Dammit. This was awful.

Chapter Text

“I really would suggest staying out of Luffy's way right now,” Sabo said coldly, crushing the vice admiral's mask in his hand. “I'm in a really bad mood.”

He would try not to kill the marines, but his patience was at its limit, he wasn't going to coddle them for long. They had taken Ace from him. From his family. And right now anything involving Ace's capture was putting him in a murderous mood after that vision he had earlier of Ace.

It certainly hadn't made Sabo feel kind at all.

.::.

“Eh, I really wasn't expecting to run into Doflamingo's right hand man here,” Thatch sighed. “But I guess that's what I get for coming up to the sunflower field too early, right, Cornelia?”

“Dammit, Thatch! I wanted to stay out of the way! I'm a sniper, not a swordswoman! Why did you drag me up here to fight the pink haired kid?” Cornelia complained, dodging Rebecca's sword swipe.

“I wanted to get Law back!” Thatch said cheerfully.

“Did you honestly think you could go straight to Doffy?” Vergo asked coldly. “A weakling such as you who has not only been stabbed in the back, but was also handed over to the marines on a silver platter by the very same person who backstabbed you?”

“Would it help if I said 'please'?” Thatch grinned.

Rebecca offered a small smile. “Probably not.”

“I like her. She's got a sense of humour,” Thatch chuckled. “Unlike pancake over here. Why the hell is there food on your face? Did nobody teach you how to use a fork?”

.::.

Law thrashed against Doflamingo, but he had him pinned to the floor as Sugar approached Rosinante. Rosinante looked furious, but he couldn't say anything with his mouth stitched shut like that. Damn Doflamingo!

“You woke up early from your nap, Law,” Doflamingo chuckled lightly. “I guess you figured out exactly what was going on the moment I mentioned Sugar?”

“You're really going to turn Cora-san into a toy?” Law hissed, squirming, but Doflamingo didn't budge, he kept him pressed down to the floor.

“I think it's a great idea.” Diamante grinned. “We'll finally be rid of this idiot.”

“Bastard-” Law cursed, but gasped when Doflamingo clamped a hand over his mouth.

“Mind your manners, Law, before I gag you again,” Doflamingo warned. “I was trying to be nice, by letting you talk again, but I guess that was a mistake on my part. You will respect the executives of my family.”

“Heh, not that the kid did much before,” Diamante snorted.

“Fufufufufu, that's true, but he was a child back then. You'd think the brat would have learned some manners by now.” Doflamingo smirked. “This will be beneficial to us all, Law. We can all move on once this traitor is out of our lives forever.”

Law met Rosinante's eyes desperately. He was struggling in the chair, still furious, but Law could see the fear in his eyes. That was the big issue. They didn't know how Law forgetting Rosinante would affect him. Would he go back to being that angry child who had been ruined by what the world had done to him? A mini Doflamingo?

Shit. He hoped not.

After Rosinante he had Bepo, Penguin and Shachi.

Then Luffy, Ace, Rouge and Sabo.

Ikkaku, Uni, Clione, Jean Bart.

His whole crew.

Law gritted his teeth. He needed to hold on to them. He didn't want to change. He didn't want to go back. Law didn't want to lose all he had gained.

“Say goodbye to Rosinante, Law,” Doflamingo chuckled. “It will be the last time any of us ever remember him for good. Do it, Sugar.”

Law watched until the last possible moment. He watched as Sugar's hand reached up and tapped Rosinante's leg-

Law scowled and kicked, making a muffled complaint against Doflamingo's hand. The ass, why was Doflamingo pinning him to the floor? He hadn't been making a fuss. Doflamingo released him and shrugged as Law sat up, stretching his arms as best as he could while still chained.

“Not quite sure why I was pinning you there, but I guess I had my reasons,” Doflamingo chuckled.

“Ass,” Law complained.

“Ah, that's why,” Doflamingo huffed, lightly smacking the back of Law's head. “Your bad manners.”

Doflamingo eyed the toy horse sitting on the heart seat and frowned. Law tilted his head.

“A horse?”

“Yep,” the horse sighed. “I hate this.”

Law saw Doflamingo search his pockets and pull out a notepad. He quickly read off it, and his face kept going from enraged to hurt to confusion. What was he reading?

“I see. I understand the situation now,” Doflamingo said darkly, roughly ruffling Law's hair as he stood up.

Law scowled, trying to reach up to sort out his hair. The seastone chains made it difficult, but he managed well enough though.

“You have been quite the thorn at my side, Rosinante,” Doflamingo growled lowly, approaching the toy horse.

There were empty chains lying on the arms of the chair and on the floor by the base of it. Law frowned. There must have been someone there before, but that Sugar girl turned them into a toy?

This Rosinante person?

Law didn't recognise that name.

“But I guess that's over now. You won't ever trouble me again,” Doflamingo chuckled darkly. “Soon enough my family will be safe. We'll turn Kyros back into a toy, to keep Rebecca from faltering in her loyalties to her family too, but this time make sure he's enslaved properly, and that way, my family will be complete.”

Footsteps approaching made Doflamingo pause. Law watched as a blonde guy walked in through the doorway, his face solemn.

“What did you come here for, Bellamy?” Doflamingo asked, turning away from the horse toy.

Diamante and Trebol were watching Bellamy too, both of them looked highly amused.

“Did you kill Straw Hat?” Doflamingo asked, smirking. He looked so amused.

Who was this guy? Why were they all making that smug expression?

By the seas Law hoped this guy hadn't killed Luffy. Rouge would be pissed.

“Why did you send Dellinger to kill me?” Bellamy asked. “Was it really your order?”

“Sounds about right for him,” Law grumbled.

“Hush you,” Doflamingo chided. “Jeez, what rubbish.”

Bellamy gritted his teeth. “Isn't there any hope for me?”

“Fufufufu, don't make me say it straight, Bellamy,” Doflamingo mocked. “Your purpose was different from mine from long ago. You always wanted to become a pirate, but not me. Anything was fine with me.”

“Maybe you could become a real flamingo and fly away with your flock,” Law grumbled.

He winced when Doflamingo smacked the back of his head again. Fucker.

“Anything?” Bellamy frowned.

“As long as I could destroy this world!” Doflamingo grinned savagely.

Law shivered at the memory. He knew the exact urge. The urge he kept trying to resist every day. If Ace was dead though it would become even harder to ignore it. He still hadn't discovered what had happened to him, and why his devil fruit was back in circulation, but it was making Law really worried. He also didn't know what happened to Penguin, Shachi and Ikkaku. Why had Doflamingo not put them up in his kill list?

If it was because they were already dead then Law would murder him. He'd stop at nothing the carve the bastard's heart out.

.::.

Rosinante was lucky. So lucky that blonde guy had shown up. He had distracted Doflamingo for long enough that Rosinante could escape. He hated leaving Law behind, but he had no choice. He had to get help. Fujitora wouldn't remember him, nor would anyone for that matter, so he needed to find a person who would go to any length to save Law, and was strong enough to.

He needed Straw Hat Luffy.

.::.

“Okay, none of this is right,” Isuka mused, tapping her foot. “Obviously I was working with you for a reason.”

“Because I'm handsome?” Shachi grinned.

“Because you have good taste in men?” Penguin teased.

Ikkaku slapped both their heads. “Morons! Stop fooling around. I know Law's vivre card isn't burning, but jeez, take this seriously! Honestly, you're just mucking around because she's a marine and you want to look tough.”

“Ikkaku...” Shachi whined.

“Stop it,” Ikkaku ordered. “We were obviously going to the palace for the same reason. The devil fruit that was turning people into toys must be in effect again and turned someone you cared about into a toy-”

“Thus making us all forget about them.” Isuka grimaced.

“So if we find out who the toymaker is, or the toy, we might be able to fix your memories,” Ikkaku said. “I bet they might be near Law.”

“Or you're just saying that so we'll go rescue your Captain,” Isuka huffed.

“Either way let's go there!” Ikkaku grinned.

“Really?” Isuka groaned. “Fine, you win. Let's get moving and-”

Shachi yelled as a toy crashed into his head, sending him falling into the grass. Ikkaku paused, as did Isuka and Penguin, and they all stared down at the toy horse groaning painfully, as was Shachi.

“Sorry, I tripped down the wall,” the horse complained. “That was my fault, Shachi.”

“...Why does the toy horse know my name?” Shachi groaned.

“Huh, well I guess this is your friend then, Isuka,” Penguin said. “That was handy.”

“Isuka? Isuka!” the toy horse cheered. “I'm so glad you're here. Listen, I know you don't remember me right now-”

Isuka stared blankly at the toy. “This is weird...”

“I know, but-”

“Way too weird,” Ikkaku muttered, poking the toy horse stitched on mouth as she scooped him up into her free hand. “How does it even talk when it has no real mouth?”

“Don't poke me, Ikkaku! Just listen-”

“It's kinda cute.”

“I'm not an it!”

.::.

“Okay, that is quite the predicament,” Cornelia admitted. “Your father has been a toy for the past ten years of your life give or take, and now he's back and on the opposite side of your adopted family?”

“Exactly!” Rebecca cried.

They had ended up separated from Thatch's fight a while back and now were far away in the sunflower field. There was a grave in a clearing that they both stood in front of. Cornelia had no idea how she managed to turn their fight into a therapy session, but between Rebecca's weak sword strikes and how desperate she slowly became, and Cornelia's dislike of fighting a bloody child, it had somehow managed to turn into a talk instead of a fight. Honestly, she preferred this outcome. Rebecca was only just growing up. Hell, she wasn't even at the age where Cornelia had met Ace yet.

By the seas, she really missed her Captain.

“Monet found me in this flower field, starving and cold, and took me in,” Rebecca said, shivering at the memory. She gripped her elbows and squeezed her eyes shut. “I grew up with a large family of different people, but it was good. We always helped each other, even if we teased each other endlessly-”

Cornelia bit her lip. Yeah, that sounded familiar. The Piece of Spadille. Ace, Deuce, Kotatsu, Barry, Banshee, Finamore-

That precious time they had together themselves, then with the Whitebeard Pirates. Ace had grown up so much with them. He had grown into a young man, then Teach had ruined it all.

“Monet and Baby-5 even taught me how to put on make up, and style my hair, and do my nails for the first time,” Rebecca laughed weakly. “All silly girly stuff. Diamante-san taught me how to use my first sword. He made sure I knew how to hold it properly, what size I should use, how to angle the blade, and Doffy, he used to read to me every night when I was a girl, and made sure I got the best teachers to educate me in all sorts of subjects.” Rebecca's bottom lip wobbled. “But now I remember more about my parents since my memories of Kyros came back. I remember being happy and safe and they had been good people. My mother wasn't really murdered by a mob, right?”

Rebecca wept into her hands. “Diamante-san really murdered her... didn't he?”

“I did.”

Cornelia's blood froze at that. She whirled round, and across the field, slowly emerging from the flowers, Diamante appeared with a wide, manic grin. Rebecca choked on a soft sob as she followed Cornelia's gaze.

“Your soft heart will be the death of you, sweet Rebecca,” Diamante chided, his voice surprisingly gentle. “I've told you a million times that you need to harden that heart of yours.”

Cornelia scowled. “Don't bother with the soft sympathetic tone. You sounded very gleeful a minute ago admitting you murdered her mother.”

“I did shoot Scarlett down in cold blood,” Diamante chuckled. “I watched right until the end, as that pathetic loser Kyros, turned toy, sobbed over her dying body, bleeding into the gutter like the rat she was.”

Rebecca collapsed to her knees, gagging.

“Monet then brought little Rebecca to us, her new family, and I'll be taking her back now,” Diamante said.

“After you just told her all that?” Cornelia hissed.

“Uhahahahaha, she'll forgive me, won't you, Rebecca? We're family after all! I spared you the knowledge all these years, because Doffy thought it would break your heart, but you had to know I murdered your mother one day, especially when I do the exact same thing to your father-” Diamante flinched when Cornelia's bullet cut right across his cheek. “Whitebeard bitch-”

“Fuck you, you dirty piece of shit!” Cornelia spat. “You think you're so tough, tormenting a child? I'll cut off your dick and stuff it down your throat, you nasty shite. You're the kind of man my Captain hates the most, and while Ace might not be here to kill you, you can sure as hell count on me to see you put down.”

“Not before I carve you to pieces-” Diamante threatened.

“Good luck with that.” Cornelia smirked.

“And why is that-” Diamante began, but then gasped when he was stabbed in the back.

“Because I'm here to make sure you won't touch another member of my family!” Kyros roared.

Rebecca gasped, eyes going wide, she looked both terrified and amazed at the same time.

Cornelia didn't waste a second. She shot another round into Diamante's leg, right into his kneecap. He screamed.

“Good luck fighting on that,” Cornelia sneered. “Piece of shit. It would have been a head shot, but Kyros deserves to gut you instead.”

Chapter Text

Law tested the cuffs again, but they still didn't give him any leeway. He grimaced when Doflamingo suddenly approached him and knelt down in front of him, his face oddly serious.

“Why are you against me anyway, Law?” Doflamingo asked. “You now know giving me eternal life won't do you any harm. So why continue with it?”

“Because I refuse to become your witch for the rest of my life, if I ever do have a family of my own they would just be enslaved by you too,” Law bristled. “Rouge-ya taught me that I was worth more than that.”

“Portgas D. Rouge hm?” Doflamingo hummed.

“What about her?” Law glowered.

“A beautiful and dangerous woman,” Doflamingo chuckled. “But right now of no threat to me. If her son had still been around then I would feel a bit more wary, but as of right now? She won't be able to come after me after what happened to her back in Mariejois.”

Law smirked. “Then you don't know?”

Doflamingo frowned. “Know what?”

“She's back,” Law teased.

Doflamingo scowled. “How annoying.”

“Speaking of which...” Law frowned, his brow furrowing. “What happened to Ace?”

Doflamingo tilted his head.

“Don't give me that look,” Law scolded. “I know damn well you have had some involvement in what's happened to him considering you had his devil fruit.”

“I asked to borrow it.”

“Who did you ask?” Law insisted.

“The Five Elders,” Doflamingo said. “They were happy to hand it over when they learned I had planned to trap Straw Hat with it. What I didn't expect was for a Revolutionary and two Whitebeards to show up and steal it from me while Straw Hat escaped the coliseum. I suppose that was something to do with Bellamy. The stupid boy.”

“You said borrow it,” Law said thoughtfully. “But how? Once a devil fruit is attached to a user they would have to die in order for it to be used again, but if Rouge is back, then Ace can't be dead.”

“Unless they were apart of the witch clan who originally created the idea of it, as the Trafalgar's did with yours,” Doflamingo said. “You too could also let your devil fruit go if you knew what to do.”

Law frowned. “And Ace did so willingly?”

“Of course. The Five Elders asked him to, and he complied,” Doflamingo chuckled. “He said he didn't need it anymore.”

Law grimaced. “Why do they want us head witches so badly?”

Doflamingo's smile disappeared and he stared at Law thoughtfully, then grinned sharply. “You don't need to worry about that. You're my witch.”

“Doflamingo-” Law protested, but Doflamingo ruffled his hair, cutting him off.

“What would you have done if Portgas D. Ace was dead?” Doflamingo asked him thoughtfully, tilting his head, a frown on his lips.

Law went still. He saw flashes of memories. The Sister and his classmates, shot dead on the ground. His mother and father, collapsed on the floor, blood pooling from them, holding each other with their last breathes. Not moving no matter how much Law begged and shook them. The hospital (his home) on fire. Lami trapped inside.

Kid Ace with kid Luffy and Rouge.

A grown adult Ace with that big stupid grin.

Law felt cold and enraged when he thought of Ace dead and gone. Dead and gone like his entire home was.

.::.

Doflamingo smiled sharply. The hatred was burning inside Law's eyes. Cold, hard, murderous fury flickering in them.

“I think we both know that would only give me more of a reason to see the World Government burn alive,” Law hissed.

Doflamingo smirked. Good, from what his notes had said, Rosinante had made Law soft. It was good to see that it wasn't entirely the case anymore, even despite the fact that Portgas D. Rouge had raised Law for several years too.

Although, that woman wasn't by any means soft towards her enemies. She had murdered Akainu in a blink of an eye after all, her blades slicing right through his head back in Marineford.

“Why bother with that question?” Law scowled.

“Fufufufu, I was worried your alliance with Straw Hat had made you soft,” Doflamingo chuckled warmly. “Good to see it hasn't. Now, Law, do me a favour and summon your grimoire. You've been a bit too free willed for my liking. I think some of my blood should sort out that problem.”

Law's face went oddly blank at that, and when he spoke there was hundreds of voices behind his own, as if he was casting a spell. Doflamingo had been ready to clamp his hand over Law's mouth, but he paused when he registered the words.

“We cannot.”

Doflamingo frowned. “I was expecting a bit of defiance, but not this exactly. Why not, Law? My bloodline is tied to yours. You should listen to me.”

“We cannot because one has already forbidden us from doing so. A Donquixote already shed his blood into our grimoire and forbade us from handing it over to Donquixote Doflamingo, and any of his descendants,” Law continued, face still blank, voice echoing with his ancestors.

It took Doflamingo a moment to catch on.

No.

No fucking way.

“We do not remember the person who gave us this order,” Law said, he squeezed his eyes shut and shook his head, his voice going back to normal. “How do I not remember that?”

Law's eyes landed on the heart seat and widened. “That toy horse. That had been a person before...”

“D-Doffy-” Trebol gasped.

Doflamingo's teeth ground together so hard that he swore he felt one of them break. His fingers were twitching, cracking in their joints. That bastard. That piece of shit. He was going to murder him. He had been in the way for far too long now.

“Rosinante!” Doflamingo growled.

.::.

Law barely repressed a flinch as Doflamingo's haki washed over them all, heavy and angry. Doflamingo looked outright murderous. He didn't know who this Rosinante was, but he obviously had a bigger part in all this than Law was aware, or at least remembered. Doflamingo seemed to think that he had something to do with blocking off Law's grimoire to him too. Dammit, who was Rosinante?

“Trebol, has that toy been found yet?” Doflamingo growled lowly, glancing at him.

Trebol looked very nervous, staring wide eyed at Doflamingo. “S-Still no sign of it, Doffy.”

Doflamingo snarled. “That little bastard has ruined enough of my plans. We're going to find him, drag him back here, give him back his real body, and then have him undo what he did to Law before Sugar turns him into a toy again, then rip him limb from bloody limb.”

“Yes, Doffy!” Trebol nodded quickly. “We'll get that toy back in no time!”

“Then hurry up and do it!” Doflamingo barked. “I don't want to tolerate anymore failures because of that little shit. And Straw Hat, when I get a hold of him, I'll hammer nails into his skin and spread him across a wall as a mantel piece. They will all pay for messing with me today.”

.::.

“So you're our Captain's adopted dad? Rosinante?” Shachi gasped, staring at the toy horse on Ikkaku's palm. “I really don't recognise that name.”

“Me neither,” Ikkaku admitted, still prodding the toy's cheek. “And his adopted dad is a marine. That's even stranger.”

“Enough of that, Ikkaku!” Rosinante protested, wriggling away.

“If Law has forgotten you of all people, then what in the world did that do to him?” Penguin's frown deepened. “Ikkaku, Shachi, we've got no more time to mess around. We've got to save Law. If his personality has been altered, who knows how he feels about Doflamingo right now? He might even...” Penguin trailed off pointedly, eyeing Isuka who tilted her head.

Ikkaku cursed. “I've been telling you two to stop goofing off for ages!”

“Captain's vivre card is still fine for now,” Shachi said. “But yeah, you're both right. Let's get going.”

“If you can knock out Sugar I can help you,” Rosinante insisted as they all ran, Rosinante carried in Ikkaku's hand. “She's a little girl with turquoise hair.”

“I'm not sure how I feel about knocking out a kid,” Shachi complained.

“She's not really a kid, her physical appearance was halted when she eat the hobi hobi fruit,” Rosinanate revealed.

“That'll be fine,” Penguin said. “We'll beat up anyone who gets in between us and our Captain, then hope Luffy is there by the time we get up top to fight Doflamingo.”

“Law might be sedated again too,” Rosinante revealed. “Doflamingo keeps knocking him out to keep him quiet.”

“That asshole.” Ikkaku scowled.

.::.

“This is stupid!” Rouge scowled as she and Marco walked through the forest. “I should be with Thatch and Cornelia right now, not on Eddy's island.”

“Well we wouldn't be on Sphinx if you and Pops hadn't rocked the ship with your haki and caused those tsunamis yoi,” Marco said. “And Sabo is working with Thatch and Cornelia to get Ace's fruit and find out what happened to him.”

Rouge frowned. “I could have beaten the information out of Doflamingo.”

“After murdering an entire country full of people because you can't control your temper yoi.”

“I was in control of it in Marineford!” Rouge complained.

“Until Akainu made comments about Ace,” Marco reminded her. “Then you tore a giant hole through Marineford.”

Rouge laughed sheepishly. “Okay, yeah, but that wasn't a problem, right? I helped Thatch.”

“You're crazy,” Marco sighed. “Jeez, you know Pops needs to rest after trying to stop you going on a rampage yoi.”

“That old fart.”

“Oi!” Marco scolded.

“Don't whine, he has gotten even older now-” Rouge stopped mid step, her ancestors all stirring within her.

“Rouge?” Marco frowned.

“There's something here...” Rouge's brow furrowed, and she followed the pull within her.

She heard Marco follow after her, but didn't pay him any mind. Rouge headed for the rocky cliff side wall and felt the urge to press her hand against it.

“What's wrong yoi?”

“Something's here,” Rouge said softly, and pressed her hand against the wall.

Nothing happened, but the urge was still there. Rouge automatically bit into her thumb and spread her blood across the wall, smearing it in. She hadn't given it a second thought either, much to her surprise once she realised that.

Being a witch was too damn complicated sometimes.

A door formed with a bright flare of orange. She felt fire crackle over her, and she took in a sharp breath as lines forming the door gathered up and formed a fire in the centre of it. The very centre began to open, cutting the fire in half, revealing a tunnel.

Rouge frowned. “What the fuck?”

Marco shook his head, his brow furrowed.. “I didn't know this was here.”

“Me neither.” Rouge grinned. “Wanna go check it out?”

Marco snorted. “I certainly know where Ace gets his personality from.”

“Rahahahaha, he's his mother's son alright.”

Chapter Text

Penguin stared blankly at the imprint of a weird long nose guy on the wall. What kind of monstrosity had just flown by Luffy and terrified Sugar into passing out again? What-

Ikkaku yelped and dropped the toy horse on the ground as it let out a cheer, transforming back into a human. It sounded slightly muffled though, as the horse- No, not a toy horse, Rosinante, Cora-san, Law's adopted dad. The adopted marine dad who had tried to kidnap Law.

Yeah, it was a weird thought.

Penguin frowned at the stitches clamping Rosinante's mouth shut. “Glad as I am to have you back to help us save Law, we better get that outta your mouth first,” Penguin said.

“He can't eat like that!” Luffy cried.

“Not the biggest issue here,” Shachi sighed, as Rosinante knelt down so Penguin could cut away the string. “You can feel it, right, Luffy? Law is up there.”

Luffy frowned. “Yeah.” He nodded. “With Mingo. I'll get him back.”

“We'll get him back,” Rosinante corrected, rubbing his mouth, wincing. “Or, more so you, Ikkaku and I will.”

“Me?” Ikkaku startled.

“I need your fire daggers to help us out,” Rosinante said. “Ikkaku, you're going to kill Trebol. He's with Doflamingo right now. He'll no doubt do everything possible to get in the way.”

“Surprised to hear a marine say they are willing to kill without trying to justify it,” Ikkaku admitted.

“He's a monster,” Rosinante said. “That's my justification. I'll take the blame for it all.”

“Not that it means much to me, I'm already a wanted woman,” Ikkaku said.

Rosinante flashed her a smile. “But still. Anyway, Luffy, we'll go up together, while Ikkaku sneaks around. Trebol's snot is flammable-”

Ikkaku grinned sharply. “Oh yes.”

Shachi paled. “Oh no.”

“Just be careful, Ikkaku,” Penguin ordered, his brow furrowing. “If something happened to you-”

“Then you can blame this guy.” Ikkaku jerked her thumb at Rosinante, smiling cheerfully.

“Eh?” Rosinante gasped.

“And Luffy too. Law will hate them both forever!” she added.

“EH?!” they both screeched.

“No! I don't want Traffy to hate me!” Luffy sobbed.

“But he's my son!” Rosinante whined.

Whoa, they really were far too alike. No wonder Law liked them both in his awkward way. Luffy had grown on Law surprisingly fast all those years ago after all.

“Then don't let me get so much as a single bruise, got it?” Ikkaku ordered.

Penguin sweat dropped. Okay, maybe he shouldn't have been so worried about her then. She was willing to blackmail a Vice Admiral and Captain of the Straw Hats without even so much as a bit of hesitation.

“I'll be using my devil fruit on you, so you won't make any noise. How it works is-”

“I know, Law told us about you,” Ikkaku giggled. “He loves you very much.”

Rosinante beamed. “I love him too!”

“Then let's go save him. Rosinante, I'm ready. Let's do this.”

“Let's go kick Mingo's ass and save Traffy!”

“We're counting on you, squirt, get Law back from that pink bastard,” Shachi said. “And keep Ikkaku safe. That's our Queen of Hearts!”

“Damn straight.” Ikkaku grinned.

“Good luck.” Penguin nodded. “Make sure you give Doflamingo some bruises from us too.”

Luffy grinned. “Will do.”

“So that's Ace's little brother...” Isuka said softly, her brow furrowed, as Luffy wrapped an arm around Rosinante and flung them up towards the top of the palace.

“And next Pirate King if he has his way,” Penguin said. “Now let's go find an ass and kick it. Doflamingo's executives down there are getting some good fights in, and it would be a shame if all the Heart Pirates missed out on that action.”

“Sure, but, how do we get down there?” Shachi asked. “I'm not climbing again!”

Penguin groaned. “Maybe we could throw something at them?” he suggested.

.::.

Law slumped tiredly against the floor while Doflamingo dumped himself on the chair Trebol had sat out for him. Bellamy lay at his feet, bleeding on the floor, whimpering quietly. The memories of Cora-san had finally returned to him, but instead of feeling relieved, Law just felt exhausted. If he had known all this was going to happen back on Punk Hazard, he wouldn't have done this. Law would have taken more time to plan, to make sure his crew was safe, that Rosinante was safe.

“I'm going to force Rosinante to give me your grimoire, Law, and then we'll have you sorted out once and for all,” Doflamingo finally said, eyeing him.

“We both know it won't be that easy.” Law scowled. “We're talking about the guy who burnt down hospitals because some asshole doctors hurt my feelings.”

“Like the World Government burned down your family's?” Doflamingo asked.

Law sneered. “As if you wouldn't have done the same.”

“Fufufufufu, maybe, maybe not. We don't know since Rosinante kidnapped you and brought you to all those hospitals. He probably made your condition even worse.”

Law rolled his eyes. “Right, the mind games. I'm too tired to deal with that shit right now, Doflamingo.”

Doflamingo smirked. “But that's the best time to play them-”

They both paused when Luffy and Rosinante leapt above the suit chamber and landed on the stone floor. Luffy managed to land on his feet, but of course Rosinante face planted the ground with a groan.

“Ah! Are you okay?” Luffy cried.

Law sighed.

“Fine, fine!” Rosinante sat up, then beamed when he saw Law. “Law! You're alright, thank goodness.”

“Traffy! We're here to free you!” Luffy grinned.

Idiots and their inability to focus on the enemy right in front of them. Dammit, but it was a relief to see Rosinante again, especially after having just forgot about him. Law was about to reply, but grimaced when Doflamingo stood up and stepped in front of Law, smirking sharply.

“You have something I want, Rosinante.”

Rosinante tilted his head and pointed at himself, as if to say 'who me', but that only made Doflamingo's fingers twitch angrily.

“I don't know when you did it, but you made Law unable to give me his grimoire-”

“Oh that! I did that when he was a kid while we were travelling together,” Rosinante said, smiling sharply. “I'm glad to know it kept him safe from you, even after all these years.”

“I might have gotten my memories back of you now, but I still don't remember you doing that!” Law protested.

“...You were asleep?”

Law twitched. That must have been later on in their journey when Law started to trust Rosinante enough to look after his grimoire. He must have put his blood into it when Law wasn't looking and ordered the book not to let Doflamingo have it.

“What else have you done to my grimoire without me knowing about it?” Law bristled.

“I'm sorry, Law!” Rosinante cried, putting up his hands. “I just wanted to protect you from Doflamingo!”

“Because that's worked out well,” Law said flatly, eyeing Doflamingo.

“You're the one who came here!”

“He was coming after me eventually-”

“Eventually, not right now-”

Doflamingo rolled his eyes. “As amusing as your squabble is, I'm too pissed off to enjoy it right now. You've made me very mad, Rosinante. You and the Straw Hats. Law too, but I can forgive him as my witch, and when he gives me immortality-”

Luffy looked murderous, his face heavy and dark.

“Like hell I'll let you kill him-” Rosinante snarled.

Law opened his mouth, but Doflamingo knelt down by him and clamped his hand over it, pulling Law close with a large smirk. “No? And you think you can stop me? Law's life is mine. It always has been, and it always will be.”

Bastard, he was trying to make them do something reckless-

“LIKE HELL!” Luffy screamed, and launched a punch at Doflamingo.

Doflamingo grabbed Bellamy and held him up like a meat shield.

.::.

Luffy just punched Bellamy in the face. Ouch, but Ikkaku didn't feel too much remorse, not when he had tried to kidnap Law all those years ago to hand over to Doflamingo. Ikkaku had almost reached Trebol's back, daggers at the ready.

Trebol who was so bloody annoying.

“Hey, hey! Rosinante, are you going to cry at Law's funeral? I'm sure you can lay down some flowers for him! It'll be a good thing, letting this squirt die for Doffy's immortality. Your son will do something useful! Hey, hey, aren't you going to say anything-”

Ikkaku scowled. The bastard!

“SHUT THE FUCK UP ALREADY!” Rosinante screeched.

“GAHHH, I'M SORRY, BELLAMY!” Luffy continued to scream.

Doflamingo cackled. “What a noisy bunch, huh, Law?”

“You say you're going to kill, Law?” Rosinante snarled. “Well not before I set you on fucking fire!”

Ikkaku struck at that moment, digging her fire exploding dagger right into Trebol's slime. It might not have stabbed into him, but that wasn't the point. The point was the fire.

“What the-” Trebol cried.

“Trebol!” Doflamingo yelled, lunging.

She knew she wouldn't have time to get away, but fuck it. This was for Law! Ikkaku pressed the button on her remote and the dagger exploded, right in front of her.

Chapter Text

“IKKAKU!” Law screamed, even as Rosinante's arms wrapped around him, protecting him from the blast.

“Shit, I didn't expect him to explode that much!” Rosinante cursed.

Rosinante leapt from the flames, Law held protectively in his arms, but Law was too busy searching for Ikkaku. Doflamingo leapt out too from the other side of the fire, his face murderous. Across from him, Law saw Luffy fly out the smoke with a figure in his arms.

Law let out a breath of relief. Ikkaku was in Luffy's arms screaming. She looked unharmed, just terrified.

.::.

Luffy had grabbed Ikkaku the moment the explosion went off, dragging her out of the fire. His arms were wrapped protectively around her, hugging her close to his chest.

“Shishishi, you did it, Ikka!” Luffy grinned down at her. “And you weren't hurt. Traffy won't be upset!”

“He's still chained up down there!” Ikkaku cried.

Luffy grimaced. “We'll get him out-”

“Luffy! Throw her down here!” Penguin yelled from down below, Shachi right by his side.

“Will do, thanks!” Luffy grinned. “Catch her!”

“Oh no...” Ikkaku whined. “I'm about to go flying, aren't I?”

“Shishishishi!”

.::.

Rosinante dropped down to his knees with a pained cry. Doflamingo had shot his strings into Rosinante's chest multiple times. Doflamingo was livid, his face twisted with rage. Law looked horrified, but Rosinante kept a protective arm around him despite the pain.

Doflamingo could have Law over his dead body.

“I know that was your plot, Rosinante,” Doflamingo growled lowly. “You had the little Heart girl go after Trebol.”

“Yeah.” Rosinante spat out a mouthful of blood, grinning. “Not a bad idea, huh? Wish I did that to him years ago.”

“You got one of my executives killed,” Doflamingo said coldly. “You know the price for that.”

Rosinante scoffed. “Don't go about pretending you haven't been after my life for years now.”

“True enough,” Doflamingo said, chuckling darkly. “Although I could have spare Law some pain by making him forget you-”

Rosinante glowered. “You were trying to force him to become that angry lonely child again, not spare him, but he doesn't just have me anymore, Doflamingo. Law is free and loved by many people, even if you kill me here, Law has other people who won't let him fall down the path you've fell.”

He scowled when Doflamingo pulled out that gun-

The gun he executed their father with. The one he tried to execute Rosinante with years ago-

Doflamingo fired the bullet without another word. Rosinante braced himself for the pain, but the bullet shattered off of a shield- Wait, a shield? A magic shield that shimmered with golden light, but cracked and shattered as the bullet did.

Rosinante laughed. No wonder Law had been so quiet this entire time. He had been casting a spell, hidden in Rosinante's arm.

“Room!”

Law reappeared behind Doflamingo, and instantly attacked with Kikoku. Doflamingo blocked the blow with a snarl. Rosinante watched, shocked, as the pair blocked each others blows and parried, as he put pressure on his wounds to slow the bleeding.

When had Law gotten so quick on his feet?

“How did you get free?” Doflamingo growled.

“While you and Rosinante argued I was free to cast a few spells,” Law said. “Thanks for knocking me out so many times with those sedatives. It really helped me regain some energy!”

“Traffy!” Luffy dived in, but yelped and had to dodge a clone of Doflamingo. “Not a clone again!”

That blonde guy from earlier, Bellamy, Luffy had called him, was also forced to attack Luffy by Doflamingo's strings. The clone Doffy then left Luffy to Bellamy and headed straight for Rosinante.

Shit.

.::.

Cornelia was freezing cold! Rebecca shivered beside her. They had been trapped in a ball of snow, frozen all around them. Cornelia normally would have just shot the logia, but the damn woman was hiding in all this snow out of sight. The bitch.

“Monet!” Rebecca yelled, her back pressed against Cornelia's. “Let us out!”

“I'm not going to do that, Rebecca. Diamante-san is going to defeat the toy soldier, then we're going to have Sugar change him back into a toy-”

“So I'll just forget about him again?!” Rebecca snarled. “No, I refuse! Diamante murdered my mother-”

“Is that why you're sad?” Monet chuckled. “She abandoned you, Rebecca-”

“She was trying to protect me!” Rebecca snapped. “And Diamante murdered her!”

“You've been with us for years, Rebecca,” Monet said. “Do you really think the Rikus will want you now? You're ours-”

“I think the man out there is making a pretty good argument on why Rebecca is his daughter,” Cornelia chuckled, smirking sharply. “Can you feel it? Diamante's weakening.”

“Liar.” Monet scowled.

Cornelia opened her mouth to speak, but paused when the frozen prison around them was torn right through, Thatch falling in with a yell. He slammed into the ground right at their feet with a groan, rubbing his head.

“Ouch, that Corazon guy is really tough,” Thatch complained. “He threw me in here. Guess he had somewhere he wanted to go.”

Cornelia sweat dropped, or would have, IF IT WASN'T SO DAMN COLD!

.::.

This was turning into a nightmare. Vergo was now here too! Law cursed and blocked another blow from Doflamingo, one of his strings slicing his arm. Vergo and the clone were both attacking Cora. Law raised a finger and sent all the rubble towards Vergo and the clone, forcing them back, giving Rosinante some space. He barely managed to block another blow from Doflamingo again, and winced when string sliced across his upper arms.

“You're not focused on our fight at all, Law,” Doflamingo chuckled. “Are you scared Rosinante is going to die? That Vergo will beat him into a bloody pulp again?”

Law scowled, but frowned when he caught sight of the birdcage moving. Law stiffened up, alarmed, then cursed.

“You're shrinking the birdcage?”

Doflamingo's smirk widened.

Rosinante cursed. “He's going to kill everyone in one go!”

“What? No way!” Luffy gasped.

“So either they'll be sliced to pieces or crushed to death by the rubble!” Law hissed.

“That's horrible, Traffy!” Luffy cried out. “Bellamy, get out of my way!”

“Fufufufufu, if only you were as loyal as Bellamy is, Law,” Doflamingo purred.

Law frowned. “I doubt I'd make a good lapdog like he does-”

“Law, look out!” Rosinante suddenly yelled.

Law barely dodged the butt of Rosinante's rifle. It had nearly slammed right into the back of his head. Shit, Doflamingo was puppeteering him! Law blocked a blow from Vergo's haki covered bamboo stick, but winced when Doflamingo's strings cut into the back of his knees. The only reason Law didn't buckle was because he just managed to teleport out of the way of taking the full blow. Fuck, if he hadn't moved, he would have collapsed. Doflamingo would have immobilised him. Those strings would have torn right through the back of his knees and into his knee caps.

Doflamingo grinned sharply. “Well at least you can finally be useful to me, Rosinante. Be a dear and capture Law for me, would you?”

“Damn you!” Rosinante cursed.

Law yelled. “Luffy-ya, look out!”

The clone went for Luffy, right at his back, and the strings cut in deep. Luffy screamed, then yelled as he was booted off the palace and went flying across the sky. Law was about to shamble him back in, but Vergo's bamboo stick crashed into the back of his head, knocking Law to the floor. Rosinante sat on his back, pinning Law's hands down, capturing his fingers too in his grasp. His room disappeared, much to Law's annoyance, but it was better to save energy he supposed when he couldn't use it right now, not with his fingers pinned.

“Shit, I'm sorry, Law-” Rosinante hissed.

“Don't be, I thought Vergo was distracted,” Law admitted. “I wasn't expecting him to just show up to this fight.”

Fuck, Law's head was throbbing! Stupid haki bamboo stick. Fucking Vergo.

“You would think you would stop causing a fuss, Law,” Vergo scolded as Luffy was dragged back by the strings wrapped around his wrists.

He was sent flying into Bellamy who cut him down, screaming and crying for Luffy to get away.

“I told you before, the adults always win,” Vergo continued.

“You squirts thought you could take me out?” Doflamingo scoffed. “How conceited of you. You should know better, Law. Rosinante told you of our noble bloodline, the bloodline of Gods! I was a Celestial Dragon, a fallen god, so I have no time to play with you brats when I was bigger things ahead of me!”

Law grimaced, then winced when Luffy yelled.

“WHAAAAATTT?! A DRAGON-”

“Celestial Dragon!” Law cut him off.

“Oh. Like the guy I punched?” Luffy blinked.

“Yes,” Law sighed.

“Hey, my dad's name has a dragon in it-”

“Don't even start on that,” Law groaned. “Your grandpa was just bad at picking names!”

“Law, can you squirm free?” Rosinante whispered to him.

“No, you're too heavy.”

Rosinante huffed. “I'm just tall.” His eyes narrowed. “Vergo's grabbed those seastone cuffs again. They're going to restrain you if you can't get free.”

Law scowled. “I'm trying.”

Doflamingo headed towards Luffy, raising his foot. “Guess we can begin the execution now-”

“Eh!” Luffy's eyes bludged. “W-Wait-”

“Fufufufufu, I'll be sure to give your brother your best regards in Mariejois,” Doflamingo mocked.

Luffy stiffened. “Wait, that means he's still alive!”

“And you'll never get a chance to see him again!” Doflamingo stomped down hard, but Luffy managed to push his feet against the floor and swing himself away from the blow. Doflamingo broke through the floor, shattering the centre to pieces. The floor below Law trembled at the aftershock, and Rosinante, of course, tripped and fell over due to it. Law instantly opened up a room. His hands were free!

“Law!” Vergo lunged at him.

He teleported Rosinante out of the palace and blocked Vergo's next blow with Kikoku.

“I'm not going to let you two use him against me!” Law snapped.

He swapped Vergo out with Luffy and cut Luffy's hands free from the string.

“Thanks, Traffy!” Luffy grinned, then stared hard at Doflamingo. “I'm going to end this. I need answers about Ace.”

Law frowned. “End this? You've got a plan?”

“Can you get Bellamy out of here?” Luffy asked.

Law shrugged and switched Bellamy with some rubble. “Done.”

“Then I'm going to use Gear Fourth.”

Chapter Text

Gear Fourth was weird.

Luffy's devil fruit in general was weird, but Gear Fourth took it to a new level. It had taken Law a while, but he had managed to beat Doflamingo's clone and Vergo, the problem was now the birdcage was shrinking in fast. Law could feel a few familiar hakis at the cage bars, trying to hold them back, but that wouldn't last forever.

Law went to leap off the palace to follow after Luffy and Doflamingo down town, but froze mid step as his vision blurred.

Levi sighed. “Why do you always have to look so weird?”

“What? I'm not weird!” the white glowing figure protested.

“I've never known someone's eyes to pop out their head quite the way yours does. It makes me want to dissect you.”

“EEEHHHH?!”

“Yes, exactly like that, Joy Boy!”

.::.

“I'm going to try help Joy Boy,” Ann said.

“Imu would never allow it,” Levi sighed, his brow furrowing. “He'll have you brought back to him, either by whoever he picked to protect your Sanctuary, or by himself-”

Ann grinned. “What he doesn't know is that the one who was supposed to protect my Sanctuary is dead already.”

“Huh?”

“Newgate killed him and took the blood oath on to himself.”

“Wait, it can be passed on?” Levi gasped.

“Yeah.”

Levi frowned. “Then you need to cast a spell on me so that Imu can't make me tell him I know about this.”

“Can't we just get someone strong to kill Donquixote?”

“That won't be easy, we both know that, even if Newgate did it again, and it would have to be someone with the intent to kill.”

“Joy Boy would never go for it then...” Ann sighed. “He always just knocks people out cold with his punches!”

Levi rolled his eyes. “His punches as fast as pistols.”

Law paused. Where had he heard that before?

Ann laughed. “Yeah!” Her laughter died off though, and her face turned hard. “I'm going to do what I can to help Joy Boy.”

“Then erase my memory of this, Ann, so that Imu never finds out that the Sanctuary blood protection can be passed on,” Levi insisted. “I don't need to know about Newgate protecting yours.”

“Or that it's moved,” Ann added in cheerfully.

Levi groaned. “Yes, or that.”

Law startled awake with a gasp. He was lying on the ground of the remains of the palace's suit chamber. A vaguely familiar woman wearing a lot of pink sitting beside him.

“You're lucky I saved you from Burgess,” she said softly.

It took Law a moment to click on why he recognised her. “Sabo-ya's girlfriend?”

She blushed. “It's Koala!” she protested.

“Burgess is here?” Law sat up carefully, realising they were hiding behind a bunch of rubble in the suit chambers. How lucky.

“Was,” she corrected. “I got here first, but felt him coming, so I pulled you into cover. He's fighting Sabo now. Luffy's down for the moment, but it seems like he's due to get back up soon-”

“How long was I unconscious for?” Law cursed. “Last time I was awake Luffy had almost beaten Doflamingo.”

“I don't know, but I couldn't wake up no matter how hard I yelled or shook you,” Koala admitted.

“I'm going to go help Luffy,” Law said. “Thanks for watching out for me.”

“No problem. You're one of Sabo's brothers after all.” Koala smiled.

Law groaned. “Not him too.”

.::.

Ikkaku's hands were aching, but she kept her daggers pressed tight to the strings. Her haki was doing its best, but it wasn't anything like Zoro's. Penguin had the blade of his spear against the string too, and Shachi's sword was up against it too, but it hardly felt like they were slowing it down at all, even with the samurai and marines here to help.

“Law, Luffy, kick Doflamingo's ass already!” Ikkaku screamed.

.::.

Cornelia had knocked Monet out from behind with a whack of her sniper rifle when she had tried to snatch up Rebecca and escape, just as Diamante's head knocked off of the grave in the sunflower field with a sickening crack.

He still wasn't dead yet.

Kyros hesitantly approached Rebecca who watched him with wide eyes. Cornelia ignored the pair and headed for Diamante. His flintlock laid on the ground beside him. The one he had apparently killed Rebecca's mother with, and was going to kill her father with.

“Kyros is far too kind. He gave you a chance to live,” Cornelia huffed, circling Diamante's unconscious body. “But I'm not.” She grabbed Diamante's flintlock handgun from the ground and shot him in the head, twice for good measure. “I go for the execution.”

His haki snapped, gone, and the feeling of it blink out made her smile coldly. Kyros startled, staring at her, but Cornelia emptied the flintlock, dumped it beside Diamante and headed after Thatch.

“What are you going to do now?” Cornelia asked.

“I can feel Luffy's haki starting to return, but he's not had enough time to recover just yet,” Thatch said, then stared up at the birdcage and grimaced. “But that thing is coming in fast.”

Cornelia looked around with the scope of her sniper rifle and hissed. “There's a woman trying to fight Doflamingo. That Violet woman, right?”

Kyros paled. “She's fighting Doflamingo?”

Rebecca frowned. “She won't win. Doffy's too strong.”

Cornelia scowled. Rebecca was right about that. Violet was about to be impaled on several threads of strings, all sharp and waiting to strike below her. A blue sphere lit up the area, and Violet was teleported out of the way, replaced with some rubble as the threads impaled it, shattering the rubble to pieces.

Cornelia gasped. “Law just saved her.”

“Shit, he's fighting Doflamingo alone?” Thatch cursed.

“No, he's not there. He's with Luffy on a rooftop, healing him.”

“Have they got this?” Thatch asked.

Cornelia watched for a bit longer, then nodded. “It's Ace's little brother. I have full faith that he's got this. All of you, let's go hold back the birdcage, you too, Rebecca. Stay with us.”

“R-Right...” Rebecca threw her father a hesitant look, and he looked just as awkward.

Cornelia groaned. They did not have time for this. “Move it!” she ordered.

.::.

“There you are,” Doflamingo said, looking up at where Law sat, Luffy's head pillowed in his lap.

Violet paled. “I'm sorry. You had to save me. I gave your position away.”

“It's fine,” Law said, ignoring her, concentrating on reviving Luffy's haki.

Doflamingo launched himself their way, but a magical shield lit up, blocking his path. It only bought Law a few extra seconds. It shattered, then the next one behind it, and the third and last one behind that.

“Your shields can't hold me back anymore!” Doflamingo cut through the last one, and lunged at him and Luffy.

One last push of healing magic. Luffy was awake. He just needed some energy.

“Watch closely, Law, as your hope gets crushed!” Doflamingo laughed, raising his hand, the white strings rising up behind him, ready to plunge.

Law shambled them one last time, across the road and into the streets. They all landed roughly on the broken pavement, Violet gasping as she caught herself on her hands and knees. Law slumped against someone's house, watching as Luffy shakily stood up.

“You ready?” Law asked.

Luffy grinned warily. “I've got this.”

“L-L-LUCY APPEARED!”

Dressrosa's citizens began cheering loudly.

“Finally! Finally! Lucy came back!”

The cheering turned into chants of 'Lucy'.

“Now please, Lucy, knock him out with a single blow!”

Doflamingo flew down and smirked. “You're lucky Law saved you just there, but he looks too tired out to do much else. As do you. You've only just gotten your haki back, haven't you, Straw Hat? You're barely able to stand.”

“I know you're in the same boat!” Luffy snapped.

Doflamingo's grin sharpened, and instantly those white threads struck Luffy's stomach. Luffy who barely managed to block off the stabs with haki in time.

“Everwhite!”

Shit, that turned the ground itself into strings. Strings that wrapped around Law's wrist and fingers, pinning them above his head, and bound his legs to the ground. Violet yelped as she was yanked to the ground too, strings binding her and Luffy too. The strings around Luffy raised him up, ready to be a target practise. Luffy thrashed, struggling, but they didn't budge.

“Fufufufu, it's no use,” Doflamingo mocked, raising his hands. “Thousand arrows flapping thread!”

All those threads behind Doflamingo lunged forward towards Luffy, striking him in the stomach. Luffy tried to protect himself with armament haki, but that didn't last long. He still hadn't built up enough haki just yet to go back to Gear Fourth. One of the threads stabbed deep into Luffy's gut, earning a breathless gasp.

“What's wrong? I thought you were making your comeback,” Doflamingo laughed darkly as the strings kept bashing into Luffy repeatedly. “Did you really gain your haki back, Lucy?”

The strings carried on relentlessly, until Luffy was thrown into the plateau's cliff side. The string didn't stop there though. They all raised themselves up high, and crashed into Luffy again.

“Straw Hat!” Violet cried.

Law grimaced as Doflamingo puppeteered Luffy back out of the cliff side. Luffy tried to fight it off, but he was well and truly caught.

“Fufufufu, you're my puppet now,” Doflamingo chuckled. “I can manipulate you as I please. Now, come here!”

Law struggled against the strings, but it was no use, they wouldn't budge.

“I can't believe you're still alive! How should I kill you? Should I impale you? Skin you alive and make you listen as everyone around you dies to my birdcage? Or make you and your friends kill each other?”

Luffy looked like he was deep in thought, but Doflamingo brought him back out of it quickly enough.

“You know what's funny? All those fools calling your name earlier. They should have stayed in my cage and submitted to my manipulations.”

“Cage?” Luffy growled. “Manipulation?”

“Humans are scum. They only deserve to live when I, who possesses divine power, decree it. But you guys cut those puppet strings, so this is what it comes to! If you guys hadn't interfered, I wouldn't have to carry out such a massacre.”

Luffy snarled. “Enough already!”

Luffy activated his Gear Fourth again, and shattered Doflamingo's strings in the process.

“He cut the strings?” Doflamingo frowned.

Luffy was breathing very heavily. This was bad. He really didn't have much time. Luffy took to the skies, pushing himself up high, and Doflamingo followed him up.

“GOD THREAD!”

“KING KONG GUN!”

The attacks collided into each other, and Law felt their Conqueror's Haki clash. The crowd began to cheer for Lucy again.

“Nika!”

“Joy Boy!”

“Sun God!”

Law startled at those names. The name Nika made him feel warm and safe. Happy even.

So happy that he almost missed Luffy's fist slamming into Doflamingo's face. The strings binding Law disappeared, setting him free, and the same happened for Violet who let out a sob of relief.

Doflamingo had been sent crashing into the ground, the down town crumbling in around him, breaking in half. Law managed to just open up one more room to catch Luffy, who he teleported right beside him. Law let out a sigh of relief and leaned heavier against the wall, his eyes falling shut.

The birdcage was gone.

Chapter Text

Rosinante followed the army of marines down into the underground with Isuka at his side. Doflamingo lay limp, unconscious, as Rosinante approached, watching his subordinates prepare the seastone chains. Isuka barking out orders.

Rosinante looked down when he heard Doflamingo stir, and kept his rifle aimed at his head.

Doflamingo gave a weak chuckle. “You're going to arrest me, Rosinante?” he asked, voice thick and heavy with exhaustion.

Rosinante scowled. “And throw you in Impel Down to rot along with most of your executives. Yes.”

“Most?” Doflamingo raised a brow.

“We'll try rehabilitate those who can be saved,” Rosinante said sharply.

“Fufufufu, wonderful idea, but I won't let you take my family from me that easily, Rosinante.”

“You've been beaten, Doffy,” Rosinante spat. “Just accept it already. You're going away for a long time.”

“Ayuda, Trafalgar Law.”

Rosinante went pale. “NO!”

Doflamingo was gone in a burst of light. There were cries from the other marines. Isuka looked horrified, as Rosinante's heart pounded in his chest. Not again. This can't be happening again. He had escaped! He couldn't just keep escaping!

“The Donquixote Pirates, all their hakis are disappearing,” Isuka gasped.

Rosinante cursed. “Law...” He felt all the blood drain from his face, and he stumbled, whirling around. “We need to find out where Law is!”

.::.

“Law, what are you doing?” Violet frowned.

Law had shakily gotten up to his feet, his face oddly blank. Violet gasped when a flicker of white energy glowed through him as his grimoire appeared in his hands, already open. Violet paled when she saw the names on the page. It was all the Donquixote Family! Excluding her, but including Rebecca and his own name. What was Law doing? Law who raised his hand up towards the sky. His voice, heavy with hundreds of others behind it.

“Descendent of King Mancha, I have heard and heed your call. By the blood that binds us I shall aid you. I teleport all of those living you have claimed as family to your ship. Donquixote Doflamingo, Vergo, Pica, Sugar, Monet, Gladius, Senor Pink, Gimlet, Jora, Dellinger, Lao G, Machvise, Buffalo, Bab-”

“Tres Fleurs!”

Three arms appeared on Law, grabbing his wrists, and one clamping over his mouth. Nico Robin caught the grimoire before it could fall to the ground and stared at the page, eyes widening in horror. Violet had no idea why she looked so horrified, but it was highly concerning that Violet couldn't see any of the Donquixote Pirates on Dressrosa anymore. All the marines looked panicked. Rebecca was still with her father, thank goodness. Baby-5 was with Sai.

Trebol's and Diamante's bodies were all that were left.

“I'm so sorry, Law...” Robin whispered, closing the book, cradling it carefully in her arm.

“Robin, what happened?” Zoro rushed up to her, staring at Law, who struggled against her arms.

“What the hell are you doing to our Captain?” Penguin snarled, rushing their way, Ikkaku and Shachi right on his heels.

“I'm sorry, he was casting a spell-”

“Why was Law casting a spell?” Usopp frowned.

“His grimoire has been blood bound by the Donquixote bloodline...” Robin's frown deepened. “He had no choice but to listen to this command. It says Ayuda. It means 'help'. Doflamingo must have said the word, and Law had no choice but to obey the command. He's teleported nearly all the Donquixote Family away.”

“No way! Poor Traffy!” Franky cried.

Violet frowned. It looked like all the Straw Hats and Heart Pirates were here then, at least the ones on Dressrosa.

“His name and Rebecca's are both in it,” Robin said, alarmed, which Violet didn't blame her. This was bad. Very bad. “We need to snap him out of the spell before he teleports Rebecca and himself to right to Doflamingo!”

“How?” Usopp cried.

Ikkaku sighed. “Usually by taking him by surprise.”

Violet was about to speak up, but they all paused when they saw Shachi spray his mouth with some kind of mint spray? What? What was he going to do?

“I got this.” Shachi cracked his fingers.

Ikkaku blushed. “Y-You're not actually doing the joke option, are you?”

Penguin cackled. “He's going to murder you!”

“If only this was female Law,” Shachi sighed longingly. “It would have been completely worth it.”

“Captain was a cutey as a female,” Penguin admitted.

“Yeah...” Ikkaku agreed, smiling blissfully.

“Wait, that's why there is a photograph of a female Law hanging around? He was actually a she?” Franky gasped.

“Ivankov got to him by accident at Marineford,” Ikkaku explained.

“Anyway.” Shachu grabbed Law, just as Robin removed her hands, and yanked him into a kiss before he could say another word.

The blankness slowly left Law's face, he looked dazed for a moment, then flushed and let out a muffled yelp and punched Shachi across the back of his head.

“What the fuck, Shachi?!” Law yelled, then blinked heavily and stumbled.

Shachi caught him, shaking his head as he braced him. “You might not remember it,” Shachi said. “But you were teleporting out the Donquixote Family-”

“What-” Law went pale.

“Your grimoire, Law,” Robin said softly, holding it out, but Penguin was the one who took it, his brow furrowed. “There's a page on it, the word 'Ayuga' is a trigger word for a spell for a Donquixote.”

“Help or aid,” Law muttered, then cursed. “Fuck! Doflamingo was going to use that the entire time.”

“It was for a teleportation spell,” Robin explained. “That was what it triggered. He made you teleport everyone he counted as family out of Dressrosa to somewhere safe. Your name was on the list too, Law. It's why your magic is drained. You've exhausted it during the spell.”

Law went pale. “I would have handed myself to him on a silver platter...”

“I've found them!” Violet gasped. “They're on the Numanica Flamingo. Russian and Margarita took it out to sail as a back up plan! They're taking everyone away now.”

“Law...” Ikkaku reached for his shoulder.

Law's face hardened. “I'll be back.”

“What?” Penguin startled. “Where the hell are you going?”

“To my sanctuary.”

Robin inhaled sharply.

Law teleported away without another word.

.::.

“That jerk.” Ikkaku pouted, crossing her arms. “We're sitting here worried about him and he goes all mysterious on us.”

“So this sanctuary belongs to a head witch?” Penguin asked Robin.

They had all settled in Kyro's house to rest after the battle. Penguin was relieved, sure the wood was sore against his back, but at least it was something other than the pavement.

“The head witch clans all had a sanctuary. Long ago, when a witch heir was born to the clan, they would be born in their sanctuary, safe among their clan's magic within its ancient stone walls. The heir would return again once they were twelve, at the start of their journey as a witch, with their grimoire, then again once more in their thirties, when an heir becomes a head witch. It was a traditional ageing process for the heirs to become proper head witches,” Robin explained.

“But they don't use that anymore?” Usopp asked.

“No. They were all lost after the Void Century, or at least most of them were. The Nico bloodline still had one in Ohara, but we lost that during the Buster Call.”

Franky paused. “I've never seen you with your grimoire before, now that you mentioned it, Robin.”

Robin frowned. “I've actually never had one.”

“EH?!” the Heart Pirates shrieked.

“Is it that big of a deal?” Usopp startled.

“Surprisingly yes,” Robin admitted. “All the heirs have one to learn their magic, but mine was destroyed before I was even born. Brook lost his when he died, despite being revived, so-”

“Only Sanji has one out of us?” Usopp frowned. “And he rarely uses it.”

“Law is the same. Witches tend to keep their grimoires hidden, to keep them safe, and only let those they trust extremely well to hold them,” Penguin explained.

“Luffy said something about that when we learned Blackbeard spilled his blood on Ace's grimoire, back in Alabasta-” Usopp began.

Robin shivered. “Just like with Law.”

“Except Law didn't blindly obey Doflamingo like Ace did with Blackbeard,” Penguin mused. “What is the difference between them?”

“Violet said something about Law,” Robin mused. “That Law said the words 'descendant of Donquixote Mancha'. It might be that Doflamingo told Law years ago to add that spell to his grimoire, or added it in himself if he had the grimoire in his care, and Law reacted to the spell alone because Doflamingo is a Donquixote, rather than Marshall D. Teach, whose blood was in Ace's grimoire, right then and there.”

“So because it's Teach's blood directly in Ace, it put him under Teach's complete control, while with Doflamingo, Law is only reacting to his bloodline because this Mancha guy put his blood in the Trafalgar Grimoire years ago?” Shachi frowned.

“That's the only thing I can think of, but it is hard without a grimoire of my own to tell, or without looking deeply into Law's grimoire,” Robin admitted. “But I did not wish to look through it when it makes Law uncomfortable.”

Penguin was the one who had it on his lap now, holding it carefully.

“Hopefully since Law doesn't have it, Doflamingo can't affect him again,” Penguin said softly.

.::.

Law's eyes felt so heavy, but he tried to force himself to wake up. He was warm and comfortable, and he could feel an arm wrapped around him, gentle fingers caressing through his hair. Law startled awake at that, stiffening up, but he saw it was Rosinante and slumped in against him.

“How did you find my sanctuary?” Law mumbled tiredly, yawning into his palm.

He checked that he was still in there with one eye, and yeah, Rosinante hadn't carried him off into a prison cell yet.

“I placed a tracker in your pocket when we were fighting Doflamingo,” Rosinante offered.

Law yawned again. “Sounds about right.”

“I got an explanation off of Penguin,” Rosinante said softly. “I didn't know Doflamingo had wrote a spell in your grimoire.”

“I used to let him hold it regularly when I was a kid, so it makes sense,” Law mumbled. “I'm going to need to try check the whole thing and see if there are anymore spells hidden in there.”

“I've been doing it while you slept,” Rosinante admitted, and Law blinked his eye back open again to see his grimoire was resting on Rosinante's leg. “Penguin gave it to me when we talked. I've not had much luck finding anything Doflamingo did to it however.”

“He must have only added so many in,” Law said drowsily, eyeing his grimoire. “Like you did before to protect my grimoire from him.”

“At least he never thought to add more of his blood to it back when you were a kid,” Rosinante said, frowning heavily. “Otherwise you would never have left him.”

“Exactly. He never needed to,” Law yawned, shaking his head. “I was loyal to him until you kidnapped me, remember?”

Rosinante stroked his hair again. “Go back to sleep, Law. You're exhausted.”

“...Will I wake up in a cell?”

“No. We'll be here, in your sanctuary.”

Law yawned again, and closed his eyes, laying his head against Rosinante once more. “Kay... Thank you, Cora-san...”

“Love you, Law.”

“Love you too...” Law slurred.

He dozed off once more, comfortable and secure. The last thing he felt was a kiss being pressed against his hair, before Law slipped off into a deep sleep.

Chapter Text

They had been resting for about three days. Law and Rosinante had been going over spell books in the sanctuary's bookshelves. They were trying to see if there was a way to get rid of the blood bindings, but so far there was nothing. Law had tried to let his crew in to help research, but for whatever reason, the sanctuary rejected them. The doors never opened when they were around. Just for him and Rosinante. Even more oddly enough though, Law felt fully recovered. He swore it should have taken longer, but all his injuries were gone, as were Rosinante's. Rosinante had said the pillars had been glowing white while Law had slept, so maybe they had been casting their own healing spells on them both?

Witch magic was complicated, even more so when adding a bloody sanctuary to it. Law so far hadn't been pulled into anymore visions like he had with Doflamingo, but he had been waiting for it to happen just in case.

“The best I can do right now is shield my grimoire,” Law muttered, scowling, lowering the spell book in his hands. “But that will only last for so long, and those things take damage so easily.”

“This book just shows you how to change the colour of things,” Rosinante sighed, putting the spell book away. “And this one is how to bake apple pie. Why is that in here?”

“Of course it does,” Law groaned.

“Traffy!”

Law and Rosinante both jumped when the door to the sanctuary banged open. Luffy skidded to a stop, and grinned when he saw him.

“We've gotta go, the marines are getting ready to come after us-” Luffy began, then screeched when he saw Rosinante. “AH! Your dad's here already! You can't take Law-”

“I'm not here to arrest him, we've been researching,” Rosinante reassured.

“How did you even get in here, Luffy-ya?” Law frowned.

“What do you mean? I just went through the door.” Luffy blinked.

“The doors nobody has been able to access but Doflamingo, Rosinante and I?” Law raised a brow.

Luffy tilted his head. “A mystery door?”

Law sighed. “Yes. A mystery door.” He groaned and shook his head. “I'm so tired of mysteries...”

Rosinante leaned over and ruffled his hair. “Sorry, Law. I guess this one will have to be left for another day. Want to come with me to see Sengoku before we go?”

Law raised a brow. “Really?”

“A quick coffee break before you go,” Rosinante insisted.

Law sighed. “If this is a trap-”

“I promise it's not,” Rosinante said desperately. “I just... Before you're gone again, I want to savour this...”

Law eyed Luffy. “How much longer are you going to be around?”

“I'm going to talk to Rebecca before I leave. Kyros wants her to be a princess, but Rebecca hates Dressrosa's people after they kept threatening her. The jerks!” Luffy scowled. “She needs to beat them all up.”

“Alright, let's make this a quick break,” Law said, putting away the books. “I suppose my sanctuary will just remain here then.”

He was reluctant to leave it.

Rosinante wrapped an arm around his shoulders comfortingly when Law hesitated to leave. Law settled against him and followed him and Luffy out. Law trailed his hand over the doors one last time, before letting them shut behind him. The magic seeped back into the sanctuary, and it was shut off to the world once more.

It would wait for a Trafalgar, a Donquixote, or Monkey D. Luffy, to return again.

.::.

Sengoku was waiting at the tea shop. He had already ordered a selection of snacks, coffee and tea. Law took one of the coffee cups, black as his soul, just the way he liked it, while Sengoku sipped at the tea. Rosinante of course almost choked to death on his coffee, but they were all used to that.

“Want some rice crackers?” Sengoku asked, offering the packet to Law.

“No thanks.” Law sipped at his coffee, then sighed. “Why am I here?”

“I was hoping to convince you to betray the Straw Hats-”

“Not happening,” Law cut him off.

“And remain a Warlord,” Sengoku continued stubbornly. “But I had a feeling you would refuse. You know the repercussions of this. You're at risk of being sent to Mariejois now.”

“Are you going to arrest me?” Law frowned.

“No, I'm no longer on active duty,” Sengoku said. “But we are worried about you, Law. Rosinante told me what happened with you being forced to teleport Doflamingo and his men out. We also now know that the Eternal Operation won't kill you, specifically if you use it, which is a relief for us, but also troubling if that news got out. It would be for the best if you just came back with us quietly and place you under our protection.”

“Doffy is still out there, Law,” Rosinante said, frowning heavily. “And now that he's on the move after what happened in Dressrosa, he's going to be furious.”

“I actually do have a question about that,” Law admitted. “Cora-san, how did you know to put your blood in my grimoire?”

Rosinante blushed.

Law narrowed his eyes, as Sengoku paused thoughtfully, then groaned.

“Ah, that was why you called me panicking...” Sengoku muttered. “I was wondering why you were worried about blood staining a book...”

Law raised a brow.

“Okay, so I tripped when I was looking at your grimoire while you were sleeping, cut my hand, and got my blood stained on it,” Rosinante admitted. “And I called Sengoku, asking how to get a blood stain out of it without damaging a book, but then it absorbed into the page, and asked for a command, and then I knew how obsessed Doflamingo was getting with you... so I took advantage of the situation and made sure you wouldn't give him your grimoire ever again?”

Sengoku sighed.

“It was an accident!” Rosinante cried out.

“Until the order part.” Law glowered. “What else did you write in there?”

“...um... well...”

“Cora-san,” Law growled.

“It wasn't anything bad!” Rosinante cried. “Just for you to try get a good night sleep, brush your teeth, keep good hygiene-”

“For fucks sake,” Law grumbled.

“Not use bad language,” Rosinante continued, rolling his eyes. “I see some of those things didn't work anyway.”

Sengoku shook his head. “Anyway, we don't know what will happen now with whatever Doflamingo is black mailing the Celestial Dragons with,” Sengoku admitted.

“So he could just become a Warlord again?” Law frowned.

“I'm not sure how it will be handled after the information Fujitora leaked to the world,” Sengoku admitted.

“Hopefully-” Rosinante began, but they all paused when they saw all the rubble began to rise to the sky.

“Oh, looks like Fujitora is on the move,” Sengoku mused.

“Dammit,” Law groaned.

“It's a shame that while I was talking to my father, I didn't see my son sneak away,” Rosinante said idly.

“Thank you.” Law smiled, getting out of his chair. “And thanks for the coffee.”

“Stay safe, Law.” Sengoku nodded. “If you change your mind-”

“Not happening.”

Law smiled when Rosinante gave him a quick hug and pressed a kiss to his forehead before letting him go. Law rushed off after that, heading straight for the meeting point.

.::.

“You don't know how tempting it was to cuff him with seastone and haul him to the ship,” Rosinante groaned, laying his head on the table.

“How did you think I felt when you got almost murdered by Doflamingo all those years ago?” Sengoku sighed, sipping at his tea. “I'm very thankful my grandson is a doctor and healer who saved you back then, even if he is a no good pirate.”

“Law is the best, isn't he?” Rosinante grinned.

“Better than Garp's brats.”

.::.

“Fathers and sons?” Luffy tilted his head curiously.

“They wanna be your subordinates, kinda like what Whitebeard-ya has going on with his allies, except they really are his kids,” Law offered, sipping his coffee as he walked past.

“Then I don't wanna!” Luffy looked disgusted.

“What? Why not?” Bartolomeo cried.

“I'd become the grand captain of the fleet right?” Luffy frowned. “I need my space!”

Penguin smothered a cackle as Law choked on his coffee. Zoro patted his back, as Law spluttered and gasped.

“Since when did you need your space?” Law hissed. “You've always been clingy!”

“Shishishishi!”

.::.

“This turned into quite the feast,” Ikkaku chuckled, leaning against Law's back.

“Penguin and Shachi are dancing too,” Law groaned.

“It's done though,” Ikkaku said. “Doflamingo's ass was finally kicked. How do you feel?”

Law closed his eyes and sighed. “Like I have a little more room to breathe.”

“Hey, Law, Ikkaku!” Zoro greeted them warmly, they both startled when his arm wrapped around them both, pulling Law (plus Ikkaku) against his side. “Come here! Don't sit in the corner!”

“Dammit, Zoro-ya!” Law complained, but he didn't try fight him off, much to Ikkaku's amusement.

She stood up, stretching her arms. “I'm going to go dance with the boys. Keep an eye on my Captain for me, yeah, Zoro?”

“Got it!”

“Seriously?” Law scowled, but she was off, joining Penguin and Shachi with a bright laugh.

It took a while for Law to get away from the party. Yes, he had enjoyed the food and drinks, and Zoro had been comfortable to lean against, but he couldn't help but go look at where Dressrosa had been, now long replaced by ocean waves.

They had all made it out of Dressrosa alive.

But Doflamingo hadn't been quite defeated just yet. He had used Law to escape.

He startled when a familiar hand landed on his shoulder and whirled round.

Rouge smiled at him. “Hey.”

Law chuckled quietly. “I haven't seen you in ages, and that's all you have to say?”

“I missed you.” Rouge grinned.

Her arms wrapped around him, and Law hugged her back. He relaxed into her embrace, and breathed in the scent of hibiscus. He hadn't realised how much he had missed her until now. Dammit, he was supposed to be an adult, but he couldn't help but feel safe.

“Doflamingo got away-”

“Rosinante called me,” Rouge admitted. “He told me what happened. Doflamingo's a sneaky fucker, and witch magic and grimoires are complicated enough as it is. He took advantage of that back when you were a kid.” Rouge pulled back and cupped his face with her hands, smiling shakily. “I'm just glad you remained free, Law. Thank you.”

Law offered a light smile. “I had Luffy-ya and Sabo-ya kicking around.” Law paused, frowning. “Ace's devil fruit...”

Rouge grimaced. “I had a vision on that.”

“What?” Law startled.

“I found my sanctuary-”

“You too?” Law gasped.

“What?” Rouge's brow furrowed.

“Mine is in Dressrosa. Doflamingo took me to it when he captured me,” Law said.

“I found mine in Sphinx. It turned out it was under Eddy's bloodline's care all this time,” Rouge laughed.

“Imu would never allow it,” Levi sighed, his brow furrowing. “He'll have you brought back to him, either by whoever he picked to protect your Sanctuary, or by himself-”

Ann grinned. “What he doesn't know is that the one who was supposed to protect my Sanctuary is dead already.”

Law frowned. “What do you know about Portgas D. Ann?”

Rouge startled. “Only that I wanted to name Ace, 'Ann' if he had been born a girl.”

“I've been having more visions lately,” Law admitted. “Of a Trafalgar Levi, and Portgas D. Ann.”

“Guess you better tell me what you've seen then,” Rouge said softly, leaning against the railing. Law leaned next to her, their arms brushing together.

Law told her everything.

.::.

“Kyros and Rebecca left Dressrosa,” Viola said softly, her brow furrowed at she read the letter.

“No way, really?” King Riku startled.

“Kyros said that Rebecca was struggling with everything that had happened here between the Donquixote Family, and what the people of Dressrosa did to her all these years...” Violet sighed, shaking her head. “I don't blame her. Every single time they saw her, they would threaten her, bully her, told her to kill herself. That she was scum.” Viola bit her lip. “She's barely even a woman yet and she had to go through all that for years. I was fine because the Donquixote Family tried to hide me as 'Violet', but they never tried to hide Rebecca. They let everyone hate her to keep Rebecca in their family.”

They made her only feel safe with them.

“Do we know where they went off to?” King Riku asked.

“Apparently they have joined the Whitebeard Pirates,” Viola said.

King Riku choked on his drink. “WHAT?!”

.::.

“Pops! You've got a granddaughter!” Thatch beamed, showing off Rebecca with stars in his eyes.

“Hi?” Rebecca waved awkwardly.

Kyros bowed his head. “Thank you for taking us aboard your ship.”

“Eh?” Pops blinked.

“I didn't adopt her! Jeez!” Cornelia huffed. “Oi, Pops, she's gonna be in Ace's division with me, Kyros too, even if he can't navigate for shit. He's here for his daughter's sake.”

“Don't just bring random people on board the Moby Dick yoi!” Marco protested.

“Why do you lot keep finding me more kids?” Pops complained. “I'm still trying to get my youngest one back!”

“Well now there is a baby girl,” Cornelia offered.

“I'm not a baby!” Rebecca protested.

“You're like fourteen-”

“I'm sixteen!”

“She really is a baby yoi.” Marco groaned. “This is just like recruiting Ace all over again.”

“Except you lot didn't kidnap this one,” Cornelia said.

“What?” Kyros stared blankly at them.

“Yeah, this lot kidnapped my Captain and our crew,” Cornelia said, her voice oozing with cheer. “So welcome aboard!”

“You didn't even ask Pops,” Marco pointed out.

“Sorry Pops, she has pink hair and is cool, and Kyros is awkward, but trying to be a good dad to her,” Thatch said, shrugging. “So by that logic, they are awesome and we're keeping them.”

“My children are having a mutiny,” Pops grumbled. “Where did I go wrong?”

“You grabbed too many of us,” Corenlia said dryly.

Chapter Text

“P-P-PORTGAS D. ROUGE!” Bartolomeo screamed.

“Oops, looks like you lot noticed I was here.” Rouge smiled, plucking a bottle from Bartolomeo's hand. “Thanks for the drink.” She winked.

Bartolomeo squealed and fell over.

She took a sip out of it and handed the bottle to Law, letting him sip at it too.

“Shadow Lady!” Luffy cheered, waving.

“Hey, kiddo, I heard you and Law kicked Doflamingo's ass together.” Rouge grinned, reaching over to ruffle Luffy's hair.

“Yeah we did!” Luffy grinned. “I sent Doflamingo flying with my last attack!”

“Hell yeah!” Rouge cheered.

“T-The rival of the Pirate King and Whitebeard, and the mother of Portgas D. Ace and maybe mother of Portgas D. Sabo! She's the lone pirate who sailed the seas, the pirate thief, Hibiscus Rouge!” Bartolomeo squealed. “She raised Ace senpai, Luffy senpai, Sabo senpai and Law senpai!”

“When did I become a senpai?” Law grumbled.

“How did you even know all that?” Rouge blinked. “My name was erased from a lot of records. Still hard to find shit on me, even after Marineford.”

“I noticed the world government were starting to try erase Ace's deeds as well,” Law said, his brow furrowing. “It's hard to track down old newspapers of him.”

“Unfortunately.” Rouge grimaced, then smiled sweetly at Bartolomeo “I hope you don't mind me sailing on your ship for a bit. I wanted to catch up with my kids.”

“It's not even his ship!” Cavendish complained.

“Of course, Rouge-sama!”

.::.

Bartolomeo's ship was an oddity... A kind of creepy oddity... Luffy seemed to love it though, much to Rouge's amusement.

Rouge paused at the mention of Luffy's vivre card, made by Sabo, then frowned.

“So Ace just let go of his devil fruit?” Rouge said weakly, sitting down across from Sabo, slumping into her chair. “He loved that devil fruit... to know he gave it up and that someone like Burgess was trying to snatch it up boils my blood...”

Sabo's face hardened. “It's why I took it at the end of the day. Thatch was trying to get it, but I wasn't letting Burgess get a single chance. If he had bitten into it-”

“The fucker would have had Ace's power,” Rouge hissed. “I would have had to hunt him down and gut him.”

Sabo smirked. “I gave him a good burning.”

“Atta boy.”

“And Cornelia shot him in the dick.”

“Holy shit! Atta girl!” Rouge cackled.

“It won't be long now, Rouge,” Sabo said, smiling sharply. “Reverie will begin soon enough.”

Rouge grinned. “I can't wait.” She stood up, then paused. “And I'm glad it was you who got it, Sabo. You're Ace's first friend in this world.”

Sabo blushed, then laughed. “I wouldn't have it any other way.”

Rouge eyed Law who sat on the couch across from her, leaning against Penguin this time. Penguin was looking through Law's grimoire again, looking for any pages Doflamingo had written into the book. The thought made her frown. Doflamingo had actually put certain trigger words in the grimoire to activate Law's spells. That was insane.

“Sanji's bounty is 'Only Alive' now?” Robin frowned.

“Just like mine.” Law raised a brow. “It doesn't say his second name though... you don't think...?”

“I'm unsure,” Robin admitted, shaking her head.

“I bet somebody is holding a grudge against Sanji about some woman and wants to do the honour of killing him themselves,” Usopp teased.

“You're right.” Franky grinned.

The others laughed, even Robin looked amused, but Rouge eyed Law who looked concerned. Rouge scowled.

“Oi, remember the story I told you all in Alabasta,” Rouge said sharply.

Luffy, Zoro and Usopp stiffened up.

“Story?” Franky frowned.

“Oi, you don't think...” Luffy faltered.

“If this is to do with them,” Rouge continued, watching her wording around Bartolomeo's crew. “Then Sanji is in grave danger.”

“Sanji senpai is in danger?” Bartolomeo cried.

“Maybe.” Rouge stood up. “I'll try gather up some information. Law, you're probably in the most danger too right now. Your bounty has gone up and everyone will be hunting you again. Doflamingo is also sailing about too. We don't know where he even went, so be very careful.”

“We'll be with him,” Penguin said.

“Yeah, we'll look after Traffy!” Luffy insisted.

“I can look after myself,” Law sighed. “I just seem to have bad luck around your lot, Luffy-ya.”

“Shishishishi!”

“I'll return once I have information, or call your den den mushi,” Rouge said. “Have fun, and stay safe! You've all made some pretty bad enemies, your lot especially, Luffy, since you stepped into the New World. I hope you're ready for it.”

“We are.” Luffy nodded.

Rouge smiled and disappeared in a flash of lighting.

She needed to talk to Shakki about Sanji.

.::.

“RYUNOSUKE!”

Law stood beside Zoro and Ikkaku, watching the others cry and wail into the dawn about Ryunosuke who had turned back into a drawing. Shachi had fallen to his knees beside Usopp, their pair clinging to each other, sobbing.

“This is absurd,” Law grunted.

“It's just a bad drawing,” Zoro scoffed.

“Hold on, you bastards!” Usopp ranted. “Is that how you show you're thankful for him bringing you up here!”

“Thank you!” Ikkaku said cheerfully. “Now can we go?”

“We're in unknown territory,” Zoro said. “We shouldn't look back.”

He began to walk off, so Law and Ikkaku followed after him.

“Always pay attention to what lies ahead,” Zoro said. “Look.”

Law frowned. “Somebody has destroyed the gates...”

Ikkaku grimaced. “Shit, are the others okay?”

“Bepo's vivre card is fine,” Law said.

“Guess we better head in deeper then,” Ikkaku mused.

.::.

It turned out they really were fine. Nami and Chopper at the very least. They were running their way with bright smiles. Ikkaku searched the crowds for Bepo and the others, but she couldn't see any signs of them yet.

“Nami! Chopper!” Usopp beamed.

Chopper leapt up into Usopp's arms, snuggling in happily.

“So Sanji, Brook and Momo are alright too!” Luffy laughed.

Nami's face faltered. Zoro had seen it the exact same time Law had, because Zoro's smile fell instantly. Nami grabbed Luffy, hugging him hard, her face scrunched up in despair.

“I'm sorry!” Nami choked out, trembling against Luffy.

Everyone froze at that.

“Sanji!” she sobbed.

.::.

Law left the Straw Hats to it. They seemed nonchalant about the news on Sanji, but it was all a bit more concerning to him after that only alive bounty. Law however had more important business to attend to now. He followed Bepo's vivre card, Ikkaku, Penguin and Shachi right beside him, deeper into the forest.

The bushes around them rustled, and finally he got the see the others again. Law smiled when everyone emerged from the bushes, and Bepo outright charged him, tackling him into an embrace.

“CAPTAIN!” Bepo cried hard against him, clutching him tight.

Bepo nuzzled him, and Law couldn't help but relax in his arms, relieved. By the seas, he had missed having his entire crew around.

“We've got a lot to catch up on,” Jean Bart said, patting Penguin's back gently. “But it's so good to see your four again. Good job watching Captain's back.”

“Anywhere we can sit?” Ikkaku asked. “It's been a long day.”

“Yeah, we've got food and water too,” Bepo said.

“Then let's catch up.” Law smiled. “We've missed you all a lot.”

“Yeah, why are you all so beaten up?” Shachi frowned. “Tell us everything!”

“As long as you tell us all how it went down at Dressrosa!” Uni insisted.

.::.

“Luffy.” Zoro's face hardened. “Rouge's story about the Vinsmokes all these years ago concerns me. If they want to do what they did to the last head and heir witch all those years ago to Sanji, then we're going to have to go there and get him back before the Vinsmokes kill him.”

Luffy frowned. “You're coming then?”

“Yeah. I'm coming with you.”

Chapter Text

Rouge stared blankly at the wedding invitation in her hand. Sanji Vinsmoke was the groom. Vinsmoke. Rouge twitched.

“R-Rouge?” Thatch winced away from her.

Rebecca squeaked. Kyros instantly pulled her away from Rouge, eyes wide with fear.

Good to know the great Kyros feared her. What a smart guy. Not that she'd ever hurt Rebecca. She was just a kid after all.

Rouge had been training Rebecca (while waiting for Haruta and Shakki to dig up some information on Sanji) when the bird had flown overhead with the invitation. A wedding invitation from Linlin. Rouge had been curious about it at first, but now she was just pissed off.

“I told those fools to make sure to keep Sanji safe from that stupid name,” Rouge hissed. “SO WHY THE FUCK DOES LINLIN KNOW ABOUT IT?!”

“What are you doing?” Whitebeard frowned, watching as Rouge summoned a wardrobe right in the middle of the deck of the Moby Dick, rummaging through it.

She had never been able to do that before. Guess Ace's magic was getting stronger then.

“Looking for a fucking dress!” Rouge bristled. “Izo, get over here!”

“You're going?” Izo blinked, already digging into her wardrobe.

“I haven't seen Linlin in ages and I've got some time to kill before the Reverie,” Rouge grunted.

“You're also worried about the Vinsmoke brat,” Eddy said.

Rouge scowled. “You know the stories, Eddy. If this is the Vinsmokes, and they've discovered he's a witch, Sanji's life could be in a lot of danger right now.”

“So you're going to declare war on both Linlin and her alliance with the Vinsmokes yoi?” Marco frowned.

“You know how dangerous that is, Rouge,” Eddy warned her. “You're being reckless again.”

“I'm kicking asses and taking names,” Rouge said. “And none of you are going to stop me.”

Thatch reached for Rebecca. Not that she saw it, but she could feel it.

“Not even if you set the kid on me.” Rouge pointed at Thatch without even looking at him.

“C'mon, doesn't mama Rouge want a cute girl to add to her collection of kids?” Thatch asked.

“What?” Rebecca startled.

“Yes, she is adorable, but I'll kick your ass, Thatch.”

Thatch sighed. “Was worth a try.”

.::.

“Katakuri-san?” Baron Tamago startled.

Some giant guy just landed on the ship. Everyone looked stunned to see him, and Sanji had to admit, he felt even more nervous because of that. Shit, he had barely slept, tossing and turning in his guest room, thinking about the Vinsmokes and Big Mom, worrying about just what exactly they knew and what they were going to do. So far it didn't seem like the Vinsmokes knew that Sanji was a witch, considering they weren't burning him at the stake to try gain themselves more power, but Sanji was still terrified that something else was at play here.

He needed to keep Zeff safe. He didn't want anyone to die because Sanji was stubborn.

“There has been a change of plans,” Katakuri said, approaching Sanji. “You will be coming with me, Vinsmoke heir, instead of being returned to your family.”

Sanji paled.

“Heir?” Bege stared wide eyed at him.

“Yes. Vinsmoke Sanji is the witch heir to the Vinsmoke Clan, the only heir in three hundred years,” Katakuri said, still staring down at him. “Minks can smell your magical energy, which Pekoms already did when he first met you back in Fishman Island.”

No way... they've known that Sanji was a witch since all the way back then?

“Your family just only now realised it and are trying to get you back by swapping you out with another Vinsmoke son, but Big Mom has refused,” Katakuri said. “They've already set up the pyre, Vinsmoke Sanji.”

Sanji dropped to his knees, gasping and wheezing. His chest felt tight. So tight. It was hard to breathe. Why couldn't he breathe? Why did it feel like he was choking on smoke? He didn't want to die.

Luffy... Zoro... Nami... Usopp...

A wave of overwhelming heat hit him. It felt like he was on fire. It felt like he was burning.

Chopper... Robin... Franky... Brook...

It felt like he was suffocating.

Help...someone... anyone... Zeff... Dad...

He didn't want to die.

He wanted to go back to the Sunny.

He wanted to go home.

A heavy cloak draped around him, cutting off all sunlight, shrouding him in darkness, and he felt a warm weight hold on to him, grounding him as something clicked around his neck and bit into the back of his neck.

“You remember your ancestors burning,” Katakuri said, his voice grave. “I'm sorry for the reminder, but I need you to calm down. You're not burning. You can breathe.”

Sanji's hammering heart began to calm and ease back down. He could feel the cool ocean breeze beneath the cloak, the hand on his back, steadying him. He wasn't on fire. He wasn't tied to a stake. He was alive. He was safe.

Safe? How the hell was he safe? He had been blackmailed into letting these guys take him to Big Mom. He had been pretty much bloody hell kidnapped.

The cloak slipped away from him once Sanji's breathing calmed down. The deck had been cleared out, with only him, Katakuri, Baron Tamago and Bege left. Sanji flinched when firm hands grasped his wrists, and something clicked into place around them, the locks pinching into his skin. Bracelets? Wait, something had been clicked around his neck too... Sanji reached up to touch his neck, to find some kind of necklace brushing low against his upper chest. It had an amulet at the end of it with Big Mom's jolly roger stamped on to it.

Sanji paled at the sight. He tried to unclasp it, but he realised the clasp was embedded into the back of his neck. What the hell?

The bracelets clasps were also digging in beneath his skin, like some kind of needle, now that Sanji looked at them closely.

“What are these?” Sanji asked shakily, unable to stop his voice wobbling.

Fuck, he had just had some kind of panic attack in front of his enemies. Shame burned in his cheeks, or it tried to, but he felt pale and light headed.

“They are draining you of your magic, so you won't be able to cast any spells,” Katakuri said. “So do try and ignored the exhaustion. That will last until you get used to it. It also has Mama's blood in it, and you can feel it, can't you? The locks are digging into your neck, releasing her blood into your bloodstream. That means my blood too.”

Sanji paled in realisation. They had found a way around not having his grimoire to put their blood into. The grimoire he had teleported back on to the Sunny when Bege had taken him.

“So, Vinsmoke Sanji, you will not run, you will not fight, you will not try to hide or escape. You will be marrying Charlotte Pudding, and you will obey my orders without a second thought.”

Sanji felt a jolt of his magic rush through him. No way. That meant he would follow all Katakuri's orders without hesitation? This was bullshit! As long as the stupid collar and cuffs were on, Sanji was helpless against them.

“These were made based off of the idea of what Blackbeard did to Portgas D. Ace,” Katakuri said. “He had Portgas under his control for months, right up until Marineford when the marines captured him. We're hoping this will do the very same thing to witches, even without having access to their grimoires.”

Sanji wanted to scream.

“You won't escape this wedding. You will become Mama's witch.”

.::.

“Why the fuck are we in a field?” Rouge tilted her head.

“Shadow Lady!” Luffy beamed.

“We've been trying to get Sanji back, but he attacked us and called us peasants before getting back in his carriage!” Nami yelled.

“It wasn't him!” Luffy insisted.

“Luffy-” Nami protested.

“No, he's right,” Zoro said. “Whoever that was didn't have the same haki as Sanji.”

“Was there a red haired, a blue haired, and a green haired guy in the carriage that looked like Sanji?” Rouge asked.

“The green haired one was missing!” Nami gasped.

“He probably dyed his hair and pretended to be Sanji,” Rouge said. “Watch the eyebrows, they are the opposite of Sanji's because of the genetic modification they've went through-”

“Modification?” Nami frowned.

“I managed to find out a lot more than I liked to hear about Vinsmoke Judge.” Rouge gritted her teeth. “It turns out Vinsmoke Judge, Sanji's sperm donor, experimented on his wife to turn their sons, Ichiji, Niji, Sanji and Yonji into 'elite military commanders' by removing their emotions and strengthening their bodies before they were even born,” Rouge explained coldly.

“What the hell?!” Nami screamed. “It's like those children back on Punk Hazard!”

“Ichiji, Niji, Sanji and Yonji?” Zoro scowled. “They were named after fucking numbers?”

Luffy and Nami paled at the realisation.

“Yeah, turns out Caesar used to work with Judge, go figure,” Rouge scoffed. “All those fuckers should be shot in the head. Anyway, Vinsmoke Sora, Sanji's mother, tried to stop Judge by counter drugging herself, which only saved Sanji from Judge's experimentation.”

“So Sanji was okay?” Luffy breathed out, relieved.

“Apart from an awful rotten father who abused him constantly, then yes,” Rouge said darkly. “Either way, that family is fucked up. The brothers are pieces of shit because they have no emotions, and the sister is hardly much better. They also learned that Sanji is a witch-”

Luffy went pale, but Rouge grabbed him before he could run.

“Big Mom knows about it to, so she's keeping Sanji under guard,” Rouge said. “Judge tried to trade Sanji out, but thankfully Linlin wants a clan witch badly and refused, but there is a fucking pyre in the Germa Kingdom being set up-”

Zoro snarled. “What the hell? They're going to burn Sanji alive!”

“I warned you all years ago that if they ever showed up to take Sanji and run,” Rouge reminded them sharply. “They haven't gotten any better throughout the years. Sanji is under Katakuri's protection right now. That's Big Mom's strongest Sweet General.”

“So he gotta beat him up to get Sanji back?” Luffy frowned.

“Well, good news is I dealt with the assassins who had set up at the Baratie, so Zeff and the other chefs are safe-” Rouge began.

“Thank you, Rouge. That's a big relief!” Nami breathed out.

“And set up some protection there from Mihawk,” Rouge continued, twitching. “Apparently he likes to eat there every so often so that's convenient for me.”

Zoro scowled. “Of course Mihawk would show up at some point...”

“Shishishishi, you're the best, Shadow Lady!” Luffy grinned. “So we just gotta get Sanji-”

“Still not done,” Rouge sighed.

“What now?” Nami groaned. “Aren't there enough obstacles in our way?”

“I told you, Big Mom wants a witch badly,” Rouge said. “Where is Sanji's grimoire right now? He doesn't have it.”

“Sanji managed to hide it on the Sunny, so I gave it to Zoro, since he's the least likely to lose it out of our two strongest,” Nami said. “I put a spell on it so he could carry it undetected.”

“Nice job, I can't sense it either,” Rouge praised her.

Nami flushed. “Coming from you that is a lot of praise...”

“Nami's an awesome witch.” Luffy grinned.

“You might need that magic in order to free Sanji,” Rouge admitted. “Linlin copied Blackbeard-”

Luffy stiffened up.

“But since she didn't have access to Sanji's grimoire to put her blood into, she's forced it into his bloodstream-”

“What?!” they all screeched.

“Ow.” Rouge rubbed her ears. “They put some kind of collar and cuffs on him. They hold Big Mom's blood and are injecting him with it constantly. I don't think he's in the same state Ace was with Teach, following him blindly, but Sanji can't ignore their orders either. He's just aware that he doesn't want to do it, which I'm not sure if better or worse, to be honest. They all have key holes, so I assume Big Mom has the keys to them.”

“Can't he just use a spell to throw them off?” Nami asked desperately.

“I guess they already told him that he wasn't allowed to do that.” Rouge shrugged, then frowned. “Why are all Big Mom's children marching towards us?”

“EHHH?!” Nami screeched.

“We bet up Cracker,” Luffy said.

Rouge's brow furrowed. “Alright, I'll handle them-”

“What? All of them?” Nami's jaw dropped.

“You three have someone more important to see,” Rouge said. “Go find Sanji. I'll take care of these losers.” Then her grin sharpened, turning hungry. “Rahahahaha, it'll make it even more amusing when I go to the wedding tomorrow! Can't wait to mock Linlin after I kick her kids' asses.”

“You're insane!” Nami sobbed.

“C'mon, Zoro, Nami, let's go get Sanji back!” Luffy yelled, running the other way. “Thanks, Shadow Lady!”

“Fuck you! I know you know my name, you little shit!”

“Shishishishi!”

Chapter Text

Sanji sipped at his tea while Pudding laughed. Reiju was bleeding, shot in the leg, and pinned to her chair by the weird jelly thing, but Sanji had no words of complaint in him. Pudding had told him that he wasn't allowed to care about Reiju and their plans to kill all the Vinsmokes. That it was fine because only he would be left to carry on the clan name.

That his power would now go to the Charlotte family and they would have witches in their bloodline now.

Sanji wanted to care. He knew he would have any other time, but he couldn't resist the damn orders. Reiju didn't deserve this. She had been the one to set Sanji free of his prison cell all those years ago in the first place. Rejiu was the reason he got to sail free now.

He wanted to save her.

“I can't believe you naïve people are the evil army Germa 66!” Pudding mocked. “How pathetic. Stay in your fantasy world, you dumbasses!”

Reiju was actually bleeding. There was blood dripping on the floor. It was a strange, but horrifying sight.

“Mama's aim was to get your army of clone soldiers scientific technology from the start, and when she heard that Sanji, your witch, was being offered up to us?” Pudding laughed. “It was a field day for her!”

“How obnoxious.” Reiju looked away from Pudding, frowning.

“My, you are defiant,” Pudding mocked, approaching Sanji's seat on the couch. He poured her a cup of tea and handed it over. “Thank you, Sanji,” she said, sitting down beside him. “Sanji's not been defiant at all, not since big brother Katakuri put the restraints on him. It's been giving him drops of Mama's blood, so he's got no choice but to listen to us now. However, that won't work on the rest of you, since you're not witches. The moment you lot heard Sanji was your witch, after all these years, your father desperately tried to trade his sons out, but we'll be keeping him. Jeez, I heard one of the boys were disguised as Sanji to try swap him out too. It was so funny! But why in the world would we ever take our eyes off Sanji? We would never give you that chance.”

Pudding smirked. “And the rest of you Vinsmokes will die at the wedding tomorrow. Five Vinsmokes will be riddled with bullets. The hall will be covered in red. But do me a favour and try not to get your blood on the wedding cake. Mama will be upset and she'll destroy the place.”

Pudding shot a bullet into the wall. A bullet that could pierce Reiju's hardened skin.

.::.

Zoro grimaced. That bullet almost got him. Fuck.

Nami was trembling beside him, her eyes wide, eyeing the bullet hole in the wall. Luffy was screeching against Zoro, but he had him pinned at the moment, and a hand clamped over his mouth.

That had been way too fucking close.

But that didn't matter. What pissed Zoro off even more was the necklace and bracelets on Sanji. Those must be the collar and cuffs Rouge had mentioned. The crazy bitch in there looked amused by them too.

Pudding really was quite the actress, acting all sweet one minute, then crazy psycho the next.

“So Sanji can't ignore any of your orders?” Reiju scowled.

“Not Mama's or Katakuri's so far, and they ordered Sanji to obey me too,” Pudding said, and smiled fondly at Sanji. “Which is nice, considering how kind he is.”

Zoro startled when Pudding blushed. That idiot, of course Sanji was still being kind, even in this situation. Luffy didn't care about any of that, he was livid, and it was taking every ounce of strength Zoro had to hold him back.

They needed more information dammit!

“He said my third eye was beautiful,” Pudding giggled shyly, her blush brightening. “Nobody has ever said that to me before. It wasn't like I ordered him to either... right, Sanji-san?”

“You didn't no,” Sanji agreed, but his tone was blank, there was no excitement there. “I like your third eye.”

Zoro scowled. They needed to get the collar and cuffs off the idiot.

Nami's fists tightened around her staff thingy.

Yeah, Zoro had no idea how that thing worked, only that it was actually a pretty cool staff.

“Just be patient, Luffy,” Nami said, her voice darkening. “We'll get Sanji back...”

Luffy scowled at them both.

“Don't worry, we'll make sure Sanji stays safe and sound with us,” Pudding said gleefully, stepping up to Rejiu. “You lot won't get to burn him alive, and we'll get to keep him as our witch, Mama's witch, until the end of his days.”

Luffy finally snapped at that. He broke free of Zoro's grasp and smashed through the window, much to Zoro's frustration, and Nami's horror.

“No, Luffy!” Nami cried.

“LIKE HELL!” Luffy snarled.

Rejiu gasped. “You're-”

He aimed a punch right at Pudding, but Sanji kicked his fist aside, and Luffy's fist smashed into the wall instead. Zoro jumped in through the window, swinging his sword at Pudding, but a magical shield sprung into place between him and Pudding, taking the blow instead.

Dammit, Sanji!

Pudding was immediately teary eyed, her bottom lip trembling. “Y-You're attacking me-”

“Don't bother with that crap now!” Nami yelled, climbing through the window. “We know you're faking all your emotions, Pudding! You've been tricking us this entire time.”

Immediately the sadness left Pudding's face, and she huffed. “You only caught on because you spied on me. How annoying.”

Luffy snarled and threw another punch, but Sanji blocked the blow again, kicking Luffy back.

“Sanji!” Luffy hissed. “Stay out of it. I'm beating her up!”

“I'm not letting either of you hurt Pudding,” Sanji said, but there was no passion in his voice like there usually would be when he was defending a woman. It was lifeless, devoid of anything, and that boiled Zoro's blood more than anything.

He might not like how stupid love cook got over women, but there was no way in hell he'd rather have Sanji be this blank faced bastard instead.

“We're going to free you from this, Sanji!” Nami said, holding out her hand. “Just come to me, okay? It's going to be fine!”

Normally the sight of Nami holding out her hand for Sanji would have had the idiot explode into hearts and melt, but he didn't even blink at the sight. He remained blank faced.

Zoro gritted his teeth. Fucking Big Mom.

“There is nothing to free me from,” Sanji said. “I'm fine.”

“LIKE HELL!” Luffy roared, getting ready to throw another punch, but he suddenly went still, all the anger leaving his face. Luffy stumbled, his fist lowering. “I... what...?”

“Luffy?” Nami frowned. “What's wrong?”

“See?” Sanji crossed his arms. “There's no need to be angry. Nothing's wrong.”

Zoro cursed. Sanji's damn empathy. He must have taken Luffy's anger away.

Zoro changed targets. He thought if he knocked out Pudding, Sanji would regain some control over himself, but now Sanji was using their emotions against them-

An overwhelming wave of sadness hit Zoro, and he cursed as he dropped his swords. His hands were shaking, there was tears in his eye, and Zoro tried to choke down his sobs.

It felt like he had just lost something great, and that there would be nothing else good in his life ever again. Zoro knew that wasn't the case, but fuck, he couldn't stop crying, and the urge to curl up and sob was almost overwhelming.

It was taking everything he had to stay up on his feet.

“Damn it, Sanji!” Zoro hissed.

Fuck, he had once asked Sanji why he didn't use his empathy abilities more often and take control of other people's emotions. Sanji said it always felt awful to change someone's emotions on a whim. That he could make people crumble under the weight of their feelings.

No wonder the cook didn't like to do it. It was overpowering as hell, and Sanji was a kind man at heart. He didn't like hurting people like that. Zoro needed to calm down, mediate his way out of this and focus.

Nami started giggling hysterically.

Shit, Luffy was devoid of all emotions. He wasn't angry, excited or happy, Zoro was a wreck, and Nami couldn't stop laughing. She was laughing so hard that she hit the floor, crying. Pudding smirked at them, her expression smug, and Sanji's face was blank. It boiled Zoro's blood, but not enough to break through the despair hitting him.

By the time the overwhelming sadness finally left him, Zoro, Nami and Luffy were in prison, in some fucking book, and Sanji was gone.

Pudding stood in front of their prison, still smirking smugly, and Zoro couldn't wait to wipe that damn smile off her damn face.

“I have to admit, I didn't realise how powerful a Vinsmoke witch was,” Pudding admitted. “The empathy magic is surprisingly hard to face against.”

“Damn you, Pudding!” Nami yelled. “You were tricking us all this time!”

“I'm an amazing actress,” Pudding gloated. “I even have most of my siblings fooled, but there is no need to worry about that. You will all be dead soon enough.”

“LIKE HELL!” Luffy snarled.

“I'll take good care of Sanji,” Pudding mocked them, turning on her heel and heading for the door. “Don't worry anymore about him. He'll be a good head witch for Mama.”

“PUDDING!” Nami screamed, desperate, but full of fury.

Zoro scowled. They had to get out of this.

“Nami, is there a way to stop Sanji from hijacking our emotions again?” Zoro asked.

Nami grimaced. “I don't know... that's not a magic I'm familiar with, and he couldn't do it a few years ago... at least not so easily...”

“We've got to get Sanji back!” Luffy yelled.

Yeah, definitely, even if they had to rip off their arms to do it. Zoro just needed to free one arm after all.

.::.

Nami was so glad Jinbei arrived when he did.

Thank the Seas for Jinbei!

Zoro and Luffy had both been about to take off their arms! And she had been about to get tortured too.

.::.

Zoro followed after Luffy out into the gardens, but before they could go anywhere else, Rouge leapt down out of nowhere, and they were swept away in a gust of wind. They reappeared in a bedroom, Sanji's rooms in fact, because there he stood at the kitchen, preparing food. Really good smelling food, but Zoro ignored that in favour of knocking out the tiny guy with the odd hat guarding the suite.

Thankfully the Sweet General wasn't here. But they still had to deal with Sanji. Sanji who Luffy tackled, wrapping up tight in his arms, drooling over his shoulder at the food.

“Sanji, it looks so good!” Luffy beamed.

“Here.” Sanji held it up, and Luffy instantly let go of him to devour the box.

Zoro caught a quick glimpse of it, and realised it was all their favourite foods in the lunch box.

Zoro smirked at the thought, then eyed Sanji again. “Looks like you aren't completely lost in your head then. Good.”

“Why are you here?”

“We're bringing you back home,” Zoro said, turning Sanji around, and it was telling that Sanji didn't even protest. Zoro examined the clasp of the collar. “Fuck, that thing really is digging into your neck.”

Rouge grimaced. “It looks bad.”

Luffy finished gulping down his meal and stood up. “Does it hurt, Sanji?”

“I'm fine.”

“Like hell you are,” Zoro scoffed, grabbing his wrist, trying to tug him back towards the window Rouge had brought them through. “C'mon, let's go.”

“I'm not allowed to leave,” Sanji said, planting his feet.

“Yeah, yeah,” Zoro grumbled. “And you aren't about to fuck with our emotions again, are you? Because that sucked.”

“No. You aren't trying to hit anyone in my crew.”

Luffy stiffened. “They are not your crew!” he snapped.

“I'm marrying into it,” Sanji said.

“I don't care!” Luffy snapped, marching up to Sanji. “I'm your Captain. You're my chef. You're our Sanji!”

Sanji didn't react at all to that. He just stared blankly at Luffy, to the point Luffy snarled and grabbed Sanji, hoisting him over his shoulder.

“We're just kidnapping him, huh?” Zoro smirked.

“Yep!” Luffy marched for the window.

The odd thing was that Sanji wasn't struggling, he just laid limp.

“You not squirming?” Zoro raised a brow.

“I'm not allowed to fight,” Sanji said.

“You kicked me earlier!” Luffy protested.

“You were hitting Pudding.”

Zoro shrugged. “Well if he's not struggling then that makes our life easier.”

“You should put the unconscious guy on my bed...” Sanji mumbled.

“Hm?” Zoro raised a brow.

“If the guards check on me they'll think I'm just sleeping,” Sanji explained. “It won't alert anyone that I'm missing.”

Zoro smirked. “Looks like your brain is working still. Heh, maybe even better than before.”

Much to Zoro's disappointment, Sanji didn't react to that. Zoro sighed and walked back over, dumping the guy on the bed (not Sanji's bed. That was back on the Sunny) dumped the blankets on the guard, then headed for the window again. He climbed out after Luffy, Sanji protesting quietly over his shoulder, but they ignored his fussing.

Rouge grabbed both their shoulders again, and they were off in another swirl of wind.

.::.

Rouge had Sanji sit down in the centre of a drawn rune circle with candles lit around it. There was an umbrella made of wind hoovering over them, keeping the rain from snuffing out the candles. Rouge held his hands, studying the bracelets and necklace, with a furrowed brow. Sanji should be swooning right now, but he hadn't said a word.

He hadn't even batted an eye.

Zoro loathed the sight.

“So was he like this when you first found him?” Rouge asked, waving her hand in front of Sanji's face.

Sanji gently caught her hand and lowered it, but he didn't do anything like flirt or compliment her hand.

“No, Cook has been acting pretty emotionless,” Zoro admitted. “He did erase Luffy's emotions, then made me overwhelming sad, and Nami overwhelmingly happy, and that gave Pudding enough time to lock us up, but otherwise he did nothing else.”

“In my visions of Ace, he was the same way during his first week with Teach,” Rouge said, a growl in the back of her throat. “He was able to offer Teach suggestions and such, but any emotions Ace would normally have felt were blocked off until Teach's blood settled into the grimoire.”

Luffy's fists clenched.

“Visions?” Zoro tilted his head.

“I've been doing a lot of meditation to try see the things that I've missed during Ace's kidnapping by Teach. Ace's reaction to Teach's blood in his grimoire was one of them,” Rouge sighed, turning Sanji's hands around. “Are these cuffs hurting you, Sanji?”

“A little uncomfortable,” Sanji admitted. “They're digging into my wrists, the same with the necklace.”

“Really? But the chain is so long,” Rouge murmured, touching the necklace, then she gasped. “It's not just the lock, the entire chain is digging into your skin.”

Zoro frowned. “What?” He took a closer look and scowled. She was right. The chain links of the necklace were digging into Sanji's skin. It was the same on his wrists. The bracelets were trying to sink into his skin. There was blood-

Big Mom was hurting Sanji's hands. Sanji's cooking hands.

Luffy's face turned murderous. He must have had the same exact thoughts.

Rouge went pale. “Big Mom must be trying to make sure we can't get it off him. Shit, Zoro, Luffy, if that melds in too far we won't be able to remove them, not without risking Sanji's hands, or ruining his neck-”

Zoro gritted his teeth. “How the fuck do we get them off?”

“I'm not allowed to take them off,” Sanji said mildly.

Zoro ignored him.

Rouge shook her head. “This isn't my expertise, Zoro. I've been searching for ways to try get Teach's blood out of Ace's grimoire for two years and I've still not found anything.”

“So he's just stuck like this?!” Zoro snapped.

“I don't know!” Rouge bristled. “If we bring him to Law, he might be able to operate on him with his devil fruit, but I don't know how much time Sanji has before this shit sinks in too deep. The magic on these things are complicated. I don't how how Linlin managed this!”

“It's fine,” Sanji said softly, startling them.

Zoro gritted his teeth. “She's hurting your hands, Sanji!”

Sanji shrugged. “It's fine.”

Zoro froze. Fine? How was that fine? Zoro growled lowly and grasped Wado, before forcing himself to take a deep breath.

That was when Luffy's conqueror's haki exploded.

.::.

A wave of conqueror's haki blasted out of Luffy, but Rouge felt it carefully wrap around Zoro and Sanji, even around herself. It screamed- Mine. Friends. Crew. Protect- Rouge couldn't help but smile fondly at that.

He was far too much like Roger sometimes, or well, Shanks really.

Luffy stood up, his hat shadowing his eyes, even as he gently took Sanji's hands into his own, checking over his wrists.

“They're bleeding,” Luffy growled out lowly.

“It's fine, Luffy,” Sanji insisted, his voice still soft.

“Like hell it is!” Luffy snapped. “And you...” Luffy gritted his teeth. “You're hands, Sanji... you always make sure they are safe because you're a chef... your dad taught you to keep them safe...” He gritted his teeth. “We're going to free you from this. I swear it, Sanji, on Davy Jones!”

Rouge stiffened. “Luffy-”

But it was too late. She heard the the seagull's cry, and saw the black mark form on Luffy's hand, the same mark that was on Thatch's hand.

Damn, reckless idiot. Idiots in fact, all her kids.

Sabo and Ace would have done the exact same thing.

The little shits.

Luffy must have learned that off of Thatch. Dammit, it could have been Rayleigh too. Rouge would strangle those idiots.

Zoro smirked. “Swearing on Davy Jones, huh? Well then, I-”

“Nope!” Rouge smacked his head, knocking him flat on his face, earning a strangled yelp.

“What? Why not?” Zoro scowled, rubbing the back of his head.

“Swearing to Davy is stupid as fuck, you don't get any peace until you fulfil that bargain, or until you die, and if you die without fulfilling it, then your soul is forever lost to Davy Jone's service,” Rouge complained. “Besides, Luffy already made it, so you can't.”

“That's a thing? Someone already did it, so you can't?” Zoro scowled. “That's annoying.”

“First come first served as far as Jones is concerned,” Rouge chuckled.

Rouge closed her eyes and murmured something, and the necklace and bracelets glowed briefly with orange magic and a charge of lightning flickered over them.

“I've slowed down the connection magic trying to bind the restraints to Sanji,” Rouge said, then reached down to her side, the side Zoro hadn't looked at, to pull up a den den mushi that was wide awake. “Okay, so did you hear all that?”

“I heard.” A vaguely familiar voice answered, his voice hard. “How do we save my Eggplant, Rouge?”

Zoro stiffened. It was Zeff on the other end of the call. Sanji barely reacted to the sound, only tilted his head curiously. Luffy blinked at the mushi, then grinned.

“Sanji's dad!” Luffy beamed.

“The best thing I can think of right now is robbing Big Mom of the keys during the wedding,” Rouge said. “I'm not as strong as I was when I was alive though, even in Marineford I still wasn't as powerful as I used to be-”

Zoro twitched. The woman had torn a hole right through Marineford and blown apart two armies with gale force winds, yet that hadn't been her best? What the hell?!

“There is a crowd coming in...” Sanji said softly.

Rouge paused. “Jeez, you've got some good observational haki there, Sanji. Yeah, it looks like we've got some people chasing after us.”

“We'll deal with it.” Luffy stood up, but he took off his hat and shoved it on to Sanji's head. “Look after Sanji for me, Shadow Lady.”

“Will do.”

“C'mon, Zoro!”

Zoro nodded at Luffy and the pair went off to fight the brats who had tracked them down.

Chapter Text

“We're alone now,” Rouge said softly, placing the den den mushi on Sanji's lap. “If you wanna talk to your kid now without an audience.”

She could feel Zoro and Luffy charging at their targets, him and Luffy fighting who Rouge thought was Charlotte Counter, but she wasn't one hundred percent sure.

“Hey Eggplant, think you can talk to me?” Zeff asked.

“Hello.” Sanji's greeting was subdued, and he didn't even crack a smile.

“That's a lacklustre greeting for your old man, Eggplant,” Zeff complained, but his tone was light. “I thought I told you not to go and get a cold, Sanji.”

“I don't have a cold,” Sanji said, looking over himself. He lifted his wrists, then dropped them back in his lap. “Just restrained.”

“And they're sinking into your skin. You must be worried about your hands.”

“Not really.”

“I know you were worried about us being taken hostage. Rouge took care of it. The assassins are dead and feeding the fishes, and now we're being protected by Mihawk until the Vinsmokes are dealt with,” Zeff said.

“That's good.”

“I wish I was there right now to go murder someone,” Zeff grumbled. “But right now all I can do is yell at your Captain to do that for me.”

Rouge chuckled. “I'm happy to help.”

“Luffy didn't do anything wrong,” Sanji said. “Except for come here. He should go. I can't leave, but they all can.”

“You'll be leaving with them if they know what's good for them, Eggplant,” Zeff scoffed. “I'm not above giving Mihawk free alcohol to go and terrorise your crew if they don't save you.”

“I'll be fine anyway, they aren't going to kill me,” Sanji said. “Just my biological family.”

“Linlin had a plot going,” Rouge snorted. “Why am I not surprised? Can you tell us about it, Sanji?”

“You're not a Vinsmoke, so yes, I can tell you,” Sanji muttered. “They want Germa 66's army of clones and myself since I'm the Vinsmoke witch heir. The wedding was originally a lure to bring the clones here and Germa's technology, but then Judge decided to use me as the groom so that he didn't have to sacrifice one of his precious sons, only for them to realise that I was a witch and try to swap me out. They already have a pyre built for me-”

Zeff's breath hitched.

“But Big Mom refused, so the Vinsmokes have been forced to go along with her to save their partnership with her. The Vinsmokes, except for me, will all be shot dead tomorrow. I'll be kept to further Big Mom's bloodline and give her a witch clan bloodline that she's always craved, and the clones will become hers too,” Sanji explained.

Luffy and Zoro returned shortly. Zoro moved around to stand at Sanji's back, while Luffy sat down in front of Sanji again, being careful to avoid the rune circle Rouge had drawn into the ground. So far none of the runes had helped release Sanji's restraints, but at least Rouge had slowed down the process of them binding themselves to Sanji permanently.

“THEY BUILT A PYRE!” Zeff yelled, startling them all.

Luffy stiffened.

Sanji blinked at the den den mushi and nodded. “Yeah.”

“I'LL FUCKING KILL THEM!”

Zoro huffed. “Not if we get there first.”

“Straw Hat! You better break that fucking pyre to smithereens if you see it!” Zeff demanded. “And free my son from those damn restraints. Fucking- Mihawk!” Zeff yelled, and they could hear his foot and peg storming down a corridor. “Mihawk, you'll get free drinks here for the rest of your life if you murder the Vinsmokes! Judge, Ichiji, Niji and Yonji! I want you to destroy them!”

Zoro twitched. “Mihawk?”

“Free drinks you said?” Mihawk drawled.

“I'll add in dinner too if you really make them Big Mom's crew and Vinsmoke Reiju suffer too!”

“Might I ask why? Rouge didn't really tell me what was going on.”

“Sanji is my kid, the Vinsmokes want him back because he's a Vinsmoke witch and have set up a pyre to burn him alive on, like in those old tales about the Vinsmoke witches-”

“I'm aware of them.”

“Good, then you know why they're doing it. The problem is- THAT'S MY FUCKING KID!”

“I see.”

“Oi, Straw Hat Luffy, I'm trusting in you to look after Sanji,” Zeff said. “But you've never killed in any of your fights, and I want these guys dead-”

“And you're usually the compassionate one,” Rouge teased.

“There's a time for compassion and now is not it. The Vinsmokes want to kill my son, and the Big Mom Pirates want to enslave him, so I want to mount all their heads in my restaurant!”

“Roger that.” Rouge grinned wolfishly. “There's no need to hoist any colours for this, Captain Zeff. I'm all ready to kill.”

“Do save some for me, Hibiscus,” Mihawk drawled. “There are a few meals I have planned now that I will have drinks and dinner here for free.”

Rouge smirked.

“Sanji, you stay with your crew, you hear me?” Zeff ordered. “They'll keep you safe from from Big Mom-”

“I was already safe...” Sanji muttered. “I'm marrying into her family...”

Luffy seethed. “Like hell!”

“When you've snapped my son out of this mind control you better have him call me again,” Zeff demanded. “And if you don't snap him out of it, I'm not above giving Mihawk free desert in order to hunt you all down and terrorize you lot too.”

“We'll look after the cook,” Zoro scoffed.

“It sounds like you've done a fantastic job of that already,” Mihawk mocked.

Zoro twitched. “Damn you!”

“Don't worry. I can come clean up your mess once I've finished my meal-”

“You stay the hell away!” Zoro hissed.

“We're going to set Sanji free,” Luffy said sharply, his eyes burning with fury, grabbing Sanji's upper arms. “You hear me, Sanji? I'm bringing you home to the Sunny!”

Sanji tilted his head. “I'm not allowed-”

“Shut up!” Luffy ordered. “We're kidnapping you to bring you back home!”

“I'm going to try steal the keys for the restraints at the wedding tomorrow,” Rouge said. “I've slowed the progression on the binding of them to Sanji, so for now he's as safe as I can make him in that regard.”

“Thank you, Rouge.”

“No problem, Zeff. I'll call you back later when I have more to update you on,” Rouge said. “Sanji, want you say bye to your dad?”

“Bye.”

.::.

Sanji didn't look sad or disappointed saying goodbye to his father, his face just looked blank, void of all emotion. Zoro grimaced at the sight, but paused when he heard Chopper's voice.

“Eh? Chopper?” Luffy startled, then beamed. “Chopper!”

He rushed off, searching the grass. Rouge put the den den mushi away and stood up, stretching her arms. Zoro remained by Sanji's side, keeping an eye on the love cook, but he hadn't moved from his seat in the runes.

“Can I go back to my room now?” Sanji asked.

Zoro shook his head. “Nope, you mopey bastard.”

Sanji still didn't complain about the insult.

Zoro sighed. “It's not the same when you don't respond.”

“Sorry.”

.::.

“So Sanji is completely under their control right now?” Nami frowned, staring intently at Sanji, who remained quietly seated in the hallway as they waited for the others to finish dressing up for Bege's meeting.

Zoro scowled. “Yeah, he's emotionless at the moment. Rouge said the same thing happened to Ace.”

“I've slowed the progression as best as I possibly could on the restraints trying to bind themselves into him,” Rouge said. “But we need to get the keys off of Big Mom. I was an amazing thief, although I know you're very good at stealing too, Nami. However I probably have the better chance of getting to Big Mom than you do.”

“How so?” Zoro asked.

“Not that I'm complaining, but won't you have to fight your way to get through to her?” Nami asked.

“Nah.” Rouge grinned, holding up a wedding invitation. “I've got an invite.”

“Why?” Nami gasped.

“I've known Linlin for years,” Rouge huffed. “I think this is her trying to gloat about finally getting a head witch in her family. She's been trying for years. Katakuri and I did have an interesting relationship because of that, but I was in love with the sea.”

First she fell in love with the sea, then Roger, then Ace the moment she knew she was pregnant with him. Her bundle of joy. Her little life.

She didn't regret a moment of it.

“Anyway, you lot go in and plan. I'll look after Sanji.” Rouge smiled, but Zoro saw her stiffen, blinking hard, when Sanji leaned in and whispered into her ear. A smirk curled up on her lips, and she chuckled. “You really are a clever child, Sanji. Actually, I need to talk to Brook first.”

“What? Sanji, what did you say?” Nami frowned, staring at him.

Sanji didn't even react to the compliment. He just leaned back in his seat, staring at the floor.

“Please send Brook my way.” Rouge grinned.

“What are you plotting?” Zoro grimaced.

“Something interesting just came to mind.” Rouge ruffled Sanji's hair. “Thanks for the help, Sanji. It's good to know you're trying to fight back somewhere in there. Ace tried his best too. So thank you.”

Chapter Text

“Make sure you keep Sanji locked up in here, okay?”

Rouge had insisted on keeping Sanji out of the way, so despite all of Sanji's protests and complaints about them not letting him go, they kept him in Bege's castle. Luffy had literally wrapped his arms and legs around Sanji and cuddled into him for a nap, and with Sanji being unable to fight due to the stupid commands on him, he had no choice but to surrender to Luffy's hug.

Zoro leaned against the wall, watching the others sleep. Jinbei was the only one still awake, and normally while Zoro would have slept, he didn't want to leave the love cook unsupervised by anyone who might underestimate him. Jinbei didn't know how sneaky he could be. The amount of times Sanji's disappeared to do something to help them out after all was ridiculous. Twice alone during the Enies Lobby stuff.

Brook was meditating across from them, a green glow fluttering over his body. Zoro had no idea what kind of spell he was casting. None of them did except for Brook and Rouge. Brook who had been quite eager to start casting the moment Rouge left.

Zoro had to admit. He was pretty curious as to what Rouge and Brook were up to, and even more curious as to what the hell Luffy was up to.

Portgas D. Rouge and Monkey D. Luffy.

Those two seemed as crazy as each other.

.::.

Rouge smiled as she walked up to the main door. “Katakuri, Daifuku, Oven, you three I swear have grown even taller than before.”

They had just murdered a whole bunch of organ dealers too. How cute. Rouge made her way through the bodies, chuckling. “But couldn't you gentlemen have left a path for a beautiful lady such as myself?”

“Purple suits you,” Katakuri complimented, jumping down from the wall. He approached her side and offered his hand.

“Of course it's only you that's the gentleman out of you brothers,” Rouge teased, taking his hand.

Izo had picked out a short purple dress with a ruffled skirt and tight bodice for her to wear, with purple heels and silver jewellery. Rouge had to admit, it was pretty on her. Izo had taken his time to pick out something nice. Her hair was braided into a crown at the back of her back, with the rest of it flowing down in waves.

Roger would have loved the outfit.

And damn, if that thought didn't send a mournful pang through her.

“You have your swords,” Katakuri noted.

“Going to ask me to leave them behind?” Rouge grinned.

Katakuri huffed. “You never have before.”

“Rahahahaha, as smart as ever!”

.::.

Bege stared blankly at Portgas D. Rouge, who just walked in with her swords visibly clipped to her belt.

“I...” He stared.

“Don't worry about that one,” Oven sighed. “She's been doing whatever she wants for years now. Mama will tell her off if she doesn't like it.”

.::.

Rouge had a strange relationship with Linlin. They were sort of friends, but more like rivals. They held a lot of respect for one another, and saw each other quite frequently because of it. It also meant Rouge saw her kids often too. Hells, Linlin had kept trying to marry her off to Katakuri for years. It had meant that Rouge had gotten to know him pretty well over the years, but she hadn't fallen in love with him, not like with Roger, who even then had admittedly taken a few years for her to fall for him.

“Mama thought you would arrive the moment you saw the groom's name on the invitation,” Katakuri said, leading her to Smoothie.

“Yeah, he's of interest to me,” Rouge admitted. “One of my brothers.”

“So you do know he's a witch,” Katakuri mused.

“Don't play dumb. We both know that Linlin knows I raised Luffy for a time,” Rouge chuckled. “Of course I'd know who the members of his crew are too.”

“Rouge-san!” Smoothie greeted warmly. “You look lovely.”

“Smoothie!” Rouge beamed. “You've grown into a beautiful young lady.”

“While you've barely aged a day.”

“It turns out you don't really age when you're dead.” Rouge shrugged.

“Here, try a drink from this beautiful woman who killed over a thousand men,” Smoothie insisted, squeezing the woman who gasped and writhed, before handing Rouge over the glass.

“I've said it before, and I'll say it again,” Rouge laughed. “Devil fruits are weird.”

The time was going by fast. She was starting to feel a bit tired now, magic was a pain to keep up, but Rouge held it back by eating and drinking plenty. Katakuri stayed right by her side and eventually led her to Linlin.

“Hello, Rouge.” Linlin grinned.

“Long time no see, Linlin,” Rouge greeted.

“You didn't bring a gift,” Linlin tsked.

“Is my presence not enough?” Rouge teased, but summoned a rum bottle from Baterilla into her hands and tossed it over. Linlin caught it with a puzzled frown. “Rum from my home. You remember where, right?”

“Baterilla,” Linlin said, eyes narrowing. “Have you been back there since you died?”

“One day maybe,” Rouge muttered, sitting down next to Katakuri.

“So this is Portgas D. Rouge?” Judge Vinsmoke's eyes roamed over her.

“Looking at me like that makes me want to vomit on you, Vinsmoke,” Rouge sneered, smirking sharply. “You think we've forgotten or forgiven yet?”

“Now, Rouge! Witch business doesn't belong at my table,” Linlin tutted.

“Then get his disgusting face away from mine,” Rouge ordered.

“How insolent-” Judge scowled.

“Your face is insolent. How dare you show it in my presence,” Rouge mocked.

“H-Hibiscus Rouge!” Morgans' squawked.

That distracted her. “Hello, Morgans,” she greeted him, chuckling as he took photographs of her. “It's been a long time.”

“The beautiful Portgas D. Rouge! Here in the flesh!” Morgans beamed.

Rouge smiled. She supposed so.

.::.

“Zoro, look after Sanji!” Luffy yelled.

Zoro scoffed. “Yeah, yeah, I've got the love cook.”

.::.

Bege paled. How was that Vinsmoke Sanji up there with Pudding? Sanji was trapped inside his castle. Bege quickly checked again, but yeah, he was still asleep on the floor, Roronoa Zoro sitting next to him.

What the hell was going on?

.::.

“I can't wait to eat it!” Linlin drooled at the reveal of the cake.

The giant, ridiculous cake that towered over them all. That Bege prayed did not topple on top of him (but if it could take out Big Mom...)

“It looks so good...” Rouge drooled right along side her.

Bege sweat dropped. His allies were all fools!

.::.

Pudding smiled, leaning forward. This was it. Sanji was about to marry her and become Mama's witch. They would kiss, and the rest of the Vinsmokes would all die. She cupped his face with her hands, as he held her waist, and they both leaned in.

Then his forehead slammed into his, making her scream in pain. She collapsed to the top of the cake, whimpering and clutching her third eye, while Sanji shimmered in front of her.

“Oops, yeah I forgot about the eye part, sorry about that, kiddo.” Sanji's voice had turned feminine, and he continued to shimmer. He began to shrink down in size. His white suit turning into a purple dress. Pudding stared with wide, horrified eyes, as Vinsmoke Sanji turned into Portgas D. Rouge.

The crowd gasped.

“Look likes we're here to crash the wedding!” Rouge laughed.

That was when a hundred Luffy's came crashing out of the wedding cake, tearing it to shreds, all amidst Rouge's laughter.

.::.

Bege smirked.

They were bloody insane.

.::.

Katakuri lunged at the Rouge sitting at their table, and his hand went right through her. The hell? She was an illusion?!

Rouge reformed, winked, blew him a kiss, then disappeared, with a pair of keys swinging at the end of her fingertips.

How? He had held her hand earlier on his arm. She had been living and breathing. He could feel her haki! That illusion had been alive!

.::.

Morgans looked like he was about to explode from happiness. Rouge chuckled as she dumped Pudding on the ground as the cake collapsed. Rouge munched at it, packing some up for later. Sanji would probably love a taste when he was feeling back to normal. It was delicious.

Rouge cackled when she saw Brook. Instead of creating another illusion he had put on a balloon mask with Luffy's face drawn on it! Sanji had been the one to tell her to get Brook to use his illusion magic. Sanji who had been doing his best to fight off the control Big Mom had on him. Well, not that it would last much longer now. Her illusion that Brook had made had stolen the keys from Linlin.

“You're insane!” Pudding screamed, shooting at her, but Rouge caught the bullet and cackled again. “Where is Sanji? Bring him back! He's our witch!”

“Hush now, squirt. You're too young to play fight with me,” Rouge chuckled.

Rouge barely held back another laugh when Linlin couldn't kill Jinbei with her stay or life nonsense either. In fact Rouge failed and almost ended up falling over laughing after Jinbei said he couldn't be intimidated by a mere Emperor of the Sea.

Rouge dodged Oven's fist a second later. “Oooooh, it's been a while since you took me on, Oven. You sure you wanna mess with fire?”

She then ducked beneath a genie? What the hell?

Rouge grinned. “Damn, Daifuku you got a weird devil fruit too, huh?”

“Don't get in our way, Rouge-san,” Daifuku growled lowly.

“We should have known you were up to something when you attacked our siblings the other night when they tried to hunt down the Straw Hats,” Oven sneered. “But you're impossible to predict sometimes.”

“Pfft, impossible? You should have guessed that the moment you took one of my witchy siblings was the moment you fucked up,” Rouge mocked.

That was when Vinsmoke Judge screamed.

Then cried at the betrayal. He and his kids were frozen in candy and had guns aimed at the back of their heads.

Rouge watched the scene coldly. “I would love to feel amused right now,” she admitted. “But this is pathetic. This is the fucker wanted to put Sanji on a pyre and burn him alive?”

“So you know about that?” Daifuku grunted.

“Yeah, I-” Rouge cursed when Linlin finally started screaming.

She shoved the earbuds in immediately, even as Daifuku and Oven crumbled to their knees. Not that she blamed them. Fuck, Rouge had forgotten how bad Linlin's tantrums were.

That was when the assassination failed.

The launchers were destroyed by her screams.

FOR FUCK SAKE!!!

And the mirror to help the brats all escape shattered into pieces.

FUCK!!!!

Chapter Text

Zoro let out a strangled yelp when a freaking lizard appeared from nowhere! It dropped a pouch in his hand and screeched at him, before it disappeared again in a puff of smoke.

“What the hell?!” Zoro yelled.

“There's a letter with the pouch,” Sanji muttered.

Sanji had woken up not too long ago, quiet and distant. Zoro didn't bother trying to get the love cook to make conversation either, not in this state at any rate. He just kept an eye on Sanji to make sure he stayed put until a freaking lizard showed up out nowhere to give him a heart attack.

Zoro frowned but opened up the letter. It just said 'keys' on the sheet of paper. Nothing more. Zoro shook the keys out of the pouch into his palm, then eyed Sanji's restraints. Rouge must have pick pocketed Big Mom for these. Who knows when, but Rouge had said she used to be the best thief in the world.

Best thief and best swordsman. That was terrifying collection of titles she had been gathering when Rouge had been alive.

“C'mere, love cook,” Zoro said, turning Sanji around.

Sanji squirmed away. “I'm not allowed to take them off.”

“And you're also not allowed to fight,” Zoro snapped. “So just hold still!”

“I'm not allowed-” Sanji insisted, but Zoro tackled him, shoving him to the floor. “Zoro-”

“You'll thank me for this later, Sanji!” Zoro hissed.

He quickly inserted the larger key into the lock on the joint of the necklace, the piece digging the deepest into Sanji's neck. Sanji went still with a quiet, choked gasp. Zoro tested the key, it unlocked the necklace. Zoro carefully pulled it the lock off Sanji's neck, and scowled.

There was a thick bruise at the back of Sanji's neck, and blood trailing down where the necklace had sunk in. Zoro hesitated, but Sanji's eyes were squeezed shut, and he was beginning to shake, so Zoro began to pull off the rest of the necklace before it sunk in any deeper. Some of it was already sunk into Sanji's skin, and Sanji shook harder when Zoro had to tug them out like splinters. Zoro hated seeing the blood trails down Sanji's chest, and how sweaty and pained he looked, and it made Zoro hesitate at Sanji's wrists.

“Sanji-” Zoro began, when Sanji managed to crack an eye open.

“Do it,” Sanji hissed through gritted teeth. “I won't be free until they're both off too.”

“Your hands-”

“I'll heal them when I'm free.” Sanji's eyes hardened, burning with determination as he sat up, holding his wrists out to Zoro. “I trust you. Free me.”

Zoro paused for only a second at that, then nodded and quickly unlocked both of the cuffs. He peeled the first one off, grimacing at the bruises and blood, and how hard Sanji's hands shook. Chopper was going to freak. Zoro quickly did the same for Sanji's other wrist, and hated how Sanji's blood was dripping on the floor.

Big Mom would pay for this.

Sanji immediately held his right wrist and a white glow enveloped it. Sanji let out shaky breaths, but they slowly calmed as the wounds began to heal, the bruises looking less swollen and angry. Sanji then did the same to his other wrist, his brow furrowed.

“Thankfully Rouge-san managed to keep those restraints from digging too much more into me,” Sanji said softly, staring up at him. “Thanks for getting them off, Zoro.”

“Are you going to be okay, Love cook?” Zoro growled. “Your hands-”

Sanji smiled tiredly. “I'm healing my wrists as much as I can for now. Chopper can look at them once this whole mess is over, my neck and chest too.”

Sanji reached up to his neck and began healing that too, his shoulders slumping. Zoro remained silent, watching the open wounds slowly heal over, leaving only nasty, deep, purple bruising on Sanji's skin. Luffy was going to hate seeing that. Nami would lose her mind. Zoro stood up with a scowl.

“Don't you ever go and do anything like this again,” Zoro ordered sharply.

Sanji startled. “Zoro-”

“You could have died,” Zoro cut him off. “Died to the Vinsmokes, or been enslaved by the Big Mom Pirates, and let your dreams of finding All Blue go to dust-”

Sanji flinched.

“Because you didn't trust us to protect you and your family,” Zoro continued.

“I trusted you!” Sanji protested. “I just didn't want to-”

“Burden us with it?” Zoro scoffed. “Like we'd give two shits about that, stupid cook. We literally followed Robin into Enies Lobby to rescue her. Luffy broke into Impel Down to save Thatch, a man he barely knew-”

“But we weren't already in the middle of a fight with an Emperor at the time,” Sanji said miserably. “And the Vinsmokes were never supposed to be a problem in the first place... we disowned each other long ago... for them I was too weak, and to me they were monsters... they were never supposed to come back into my life.”

“Don't worry, when your old man gets a hold of them they probably won't be around for much longer,” Zoro snorted. “You-”

They both paused when they heard Bege's men yelling. Sanji stood up as Zoro did, frowning at the doorway.

“We'll continue this later,” Zoro warned him.

Sanji nodded grimly, and they headed for the commotion. Everyone was gathered by the entrance, but before Sanji or Zoro could say a word, Bege spoke up first.

“I have an announcement for everyone in the castle.” Bege's voice was a forced calm. “The assassination of Big Mom has failed. We can't even move now. We'll be surrounded by the Big Mom Pirates in a matter of moments and forced to fight under siege.”

Luffy met Sanji's eyes and grinned. “Sanji!” He rushed over to his side, gently grabbing his hands and searching them. “Zoro got the cuffs off!”

“You're okay!” Nami beamed, rushing up to Sanji.

Sanji couldn't help but grin. “Nami-chan!”

“But you're covered in bruises!” Chopper cried. “Let me look at you, Sanji!”

“Thanks for the keys,” Zoro said to Rouge.

“No problem.” Rouge nodded. “And right now isn't the time to celebrate. Sanji isn't safe yet.” She jerked her head towards the Vinsmokes, who were all staring at Sanji.

“Well, well, well, if it isn't Sanji,” Niji laughed. “I'm surprised you're still alive after all these years. I thought you would have been murdered the moment you stepped foot away from us.”

“Yeah, never thought a weakling like you could become a pirate,” Yonji scoffed.

“Who are these rainbow coloured losers?” Zoro jerked his thumb at them.

“Bitch Number 1, then his bitchy kids,” Rouge said. “Say hello to the Vinsmokes.”

“Oi you-” Yonji growled.

“Oi you back,” Rouge snorted. “You wanna go? I'll slice you to pieces.”

“The ones who want to burn the cook?” Zoro bristled.

Luffy growled and Nami's hands clenched into fists.

“You're really a cook?” Ichiji huffed. “You're supposed to be a member of our royal family, Sanji. How disappointing.”

“I've always been a disappointment to you lot, so I doubt me being a chef changes much,” Sanji scoffed.

“Yeah, weren't you about to be murdered a few minutes ago?” Rouge mocked. “They-” She pointed at Nami and Chopper. “Had to save your asses while your father cried because Big Mom betrayed him. I mean seriously? Aren't you supposed to be some kind of genius? How did you not see that coming?”

“Shishishi, he's dumb.”

“This is not the time!” Bege protested. “Dammit. The assassination plot we had been working on for over a year has failed. This is the first time we've failed to kill someone.”

“It was a good attempt though,” Rouge admitted. “Most people wouldn't have been able to come up with it, so kudos to you, Bege, you ballsy fuck.”

“In the end, an Emperor of the Sea proved to be out of our league,” Brook said mildly, sipping at his tea. “I am glad to see we accomplished our goal though. Welcome back, Sanji-san.”

“Thanks, Brook.” Sanji smiled tiredly.

“Don't get comfortable,” Judge growled. “We have business to take care of, Sanji. You are the Vinsmoke witch. You belong to our family-”

“Like hell!” Luffy snarled, throwing himself in front of Sanji. “Nobody steals my chef and gets away with it!”

“Yeah!” Nami and Chopper yelled.

“We don't have much time,” Bege cut in. “And I'll tell you why-”

Rouge inhaled sharply. “Linlin's snapped out of it.”

Bege paled then gasped breathlessly and doubled over, clutching his stomach.

“Shit!” Rouge cursed.

“Father!” Bege's men yelled.

“Bege, what is it?” Luffy gasped.

“Honey, are you okay?” Chiffon cried.

Sanji cursed. “Big Mom is pretty much beating up your body right now! If she keeps this up-”

“Yeah. I'll die and you'll all be ejected from here,” Bege groaned, coughing out a mouthful of blood.

Chiffon handed her son over to Vito and rushed for the window, shoving it open. “Mama, wait!Bege and I are married, we have a son together! Please forgive him and let it go!” Chiffon pleaded.

“Chiffon!” Big Mon sounded even more furious and offended. “You look exactly like Lola as always!”

Sanji rushed forward, reaching out for Chiffon. He needed to drag her back. Big Mom was about to attack-

“Mama, please!” Chiffon screamed.

A rush of purple sped past him and was out the window in seconds. Chiffon yelled as she was thrown back, but Luffy caught her in time, his eyes wide. Sanji stopped, shocked, and saw Rouge's swords collided with Big Mom's fist right outside Bege's castle.

“Shadow Lady!” Luffy yelled.

“She's no longer in here!” Nami cried.

“Rouge!” Big Mom screamed. “Stop interfering!”

“That's supposed to be your daughter, you fucking hag!” Rouge growled, then spun her swords, the force of the blow sending Big Mom flying back. “How dare you try hurt your kid!”

Sanji watched as Rouge lightly stepped on the ground as Big Mom hit the ground with a yell. Rouge who was surrounded by all Big Mom's kids.

Rouge who grinned sharply.

“She was conspiring with Bege to kill me!” Big Mom snarled.

“And who told you that?” Rouge asked, smirking. “Or as you just assuming things again with that dumbass brain of yours? Although I wouldn't blame her for wanting you dead. You've always been a bitch after all.”

“And you've always been such a little slut!” Linlin snapped. “I'll wring that pathetic little neck of yours.”

“Rahahahaha! I'm the slut? How many men have you opened your legs for?” Rouge mocked.

Katakuri was rubbing the bridge of his nose, as were several of the other older children of Big Mom's.

“I'll go help Shadow Lady!” Luffy rushed for the window, but Chopper grabbed him before he could escape.

“Wait, Luffy!” Nami ran his way. “Don't get carried away! We came here to get back Sanji, which we did. We even got a copy of the Poneglyph. If you have time to fight back, then think about how we can all escape instead.”

“She's right,” Zoro grunted. “It's why we didn't bring the entire crew here, remember?”

“Nami-san is right,” Brook agreed. “We only made it this far because there was a small number of us. Let's go to the Land of Wano where the others are waiting for us, Luffy!”

“There is only one way for everyone to survive this,” Bege said, startling to them. There was blood trailing down his face, and he was panting heavily, but he looked determined. “Hibiscus can only buy us so much time before she's defeated, she's already starting to look worn down, so we need to hurry!”

.::.

Germa were out and fighting now and the castle was gone. Rouge grimaced and wiped a trail of blood that spilled out her mouth. She supposed that was a little handy. She was getting pretty exhausted and beat up, but the fact she was getting helped by those Vinsmoke bastards made her blood boil.

Shit, but all the Charlotte kids were chasing after Bege!

Rouge threw an air attack after them. “Pocket Swipe!”

The air blade attack got a lot of the little shits from behind, even if it earned her a punch in the back from Linlin that sent her flying and crashing into some tables. Rouge groaned, sitting up shakily from the rubble.

“Ouch.” Rouge rubbed her back, walking out the dust. “Fuck you, Linlin! That was sore.” She scowled when Linlin ignored her to attack the Germa girl, so Rouge struck Linlin from behind, earning a shriek. “You started it, Linlin!”

“Damn you, Rouge! You're being a pain in the ass!” Linlin snarled, grabbing her cloud, but the lightning strike went right through Rouge.

It didn't hurt at all.

“Linlin...” Rouge sighed. “Elements can't hurt me, remember?”

Linlin scowled. “That reminds me. Where is my witch?!”

.::.

A shiver ran up Sanji's spine at that.

.::.

Smoothie, Oven and Daifuku attacked Rejiu, which brought out Luffy and Sanji, much to Rouge's annoyance. Why the fuck was Sanji out here? Zoro came out right after them, attacking Smoothie (probably because she had a sword and Sanji couldn't hit women).

Judge came flying in to interrupt Rouge's fight with Big Mom, yelling something about ghosts and not being able to face them, some shit she really didn't care about. Linlin easily destroyed his spear with her teeth and caught him in her hand.

Rouge paused. Did any of the Vinsmokes even know haki? Or were they that reliant on their fancy suits? Rouge stifled a giggle as Linlin crushed Judge into the ground with a crash of lightning in her hands.

Was he finally dead?

Chapter Text

The Vinsmokes were fucking posing. Rouge groaned. They were posing before going to fight Katakuri (on Ichiji's part) and Linlin (on Niji and Yonji's parts) Rouge shrugged and left them to it, or was going to, when she found her legs covered in Perospero's candy.

“Fuck,” Rouge groaned. “Perospero, don't make me want to eat my own legs. That's a dangerous thing to do to a D.”

“I just need you to stay put at the moment, Rouge-san,” Perospero chuckled.

Rouge snarled when the candy latched on to her arms, binding them too. This was bad. The poison Germa girl was getting beaten up by Daifuku's genie (right, poison wouldn't work on the genie, it wasn't even real to begin with), and Sanji seemed to care about her too because it was distracting him from his fight with Oven. Smoothie wasn't much of a swordswoman in comparison to Zoro, but Zoro had to stay out of her grasp and not get squeezed by her.

Galette captured Luffy though, who yelped, startled when he tripped up over his own feet, her Bata Bata no Mi then pinning his arms to his side. Sanji got distracted by his yelp, then Galette caught him and Reiju next.

“You'd better focus,” Galette warned them.

“Idiots!” Zoro yelled, but he was caught next, getting whacked from behind by Daifuku's genie. Galete restrained him too, and the Charlottes dumped them all next to each other.

“Why is it so sticky?” Luffy whined, squirming, then beamed when Zoro was dumped on top of him. “Hi, Zoro!”

“Shit...” Rouge breathed out.

Everyone had been caught. Bege and Caesar had been stopped by Brulee, Katakuri had captured Ichiji, and Big Mom held Yonji and Niji in her hands like they were dolls.

“Alright.” Linlin grinned. “Let's start the executions.”

Rouge was about to burn her way through the candy, magic exhaustion or not, when suddenly an explosion went off from down below and the world began to tilt.

“What the?” Linlin gasped.

Perospero tripped and slid by Rouge, so she quickly burned through the candy restraining her and ran for Luffy's group, panting hard. Fuck, this was getting tiring. The chateau was tilting too fast though, so she caught a gust of wind and flew up into the sky.

Sanji was carrying both Luffy and Zoro- Hey, he knew how to Sky Walk! That was so cool! Rouge cut her way through the debris and joined them as they made their way to Caesar and Bege.

“That's so cool you know how to Sky Walk!” Rouge laughed.

Sanji gushed. “Thank you, Rouge-san! To hear such a thing from a beautiful lady really warms my heart!”

Zoro sighed. “And he's back.”

But his voice was warm and full of fondness.

“Shishishishi, it's great to see!” Luffy grinned.

They jumped back into Bege's castle and made their escape.

.::.

“If Bege wasn't a married man I would have asked him out on a date for that entire show,” Rouge admitted as Bege retreated with his family and crew.

Luffy made gagging noises behind her.

Rouge smirked at the sound.

.::.

“The wedding cake was a chocolate chiffon cake,” Pudding mused. “I can make as good a chocolate flavour as the head chef, if not better, and big sis Chiffon is an expert in chiffon cake. Sanji is also an amazing chef in his own right, one that might be able to even impress Mama. We need to recapture him anyway, since he's our witch. Together we can all make the cake!”

“Are you sure, Pudding?” Perospero cried.

“But Chiffon is married to that traitorous Bege now.” Oven scowled, then startled when Pudding fired her gun.

Pudding smirked. “Then I'll make her do it.” She blew out the smoke leaving the gun barrel and smirked. “And Sanji too. I'm not about to let our witch go that easily.”

“The truth is; the special ingredients were gathered together in Chocolat Town in Cacao Island. So there were extra supplies of them stocked there.” Pudding frowned. “Big brother, Peros, once Mama has finished dealing with the Straw Hats, lead her to my town. I'll end the matter!”

“Are you sure? That's helpful, Pudding!” Perospero cried out.

.::.

Rouge gasped. “Incoming!”

“We know about the army-” Nami began.

“No, Linlin!” Rouge yelled, staring up at the sky. “She's coming full speed ahead!”

“WEDDING CAKE!”

“BIG MOM!” Luffy screamed.

“She's having a hunger pang now?” Rouge cursed.

“Taste the spear of Elbaph!” Big Mom yelled.

“Shit, watch out!” Zoro screamed.

“Ikoku Sovereignty!”

“Divine Departure!”

Rouge swung her sword just in time. Their haki both crashing into each other as their attacks did. The Straw Hats were getting blown away, as was the wildlife around them, and the big tree they rode on was beginning to smash to smithereens. Rouge gritted her teeth and just managed to redirect the attack. Their attacks tore right through the forest and into the sea, and Rouge panted and gasped for breath.

“Fuck, haven't done that in years,” Rouge groaned.

“Wedding... Cake...!”

“That was like the giants attack...” Luffy frowned. “Why is that?”

Rouge grimaced, but thankfully the tree was on the run again.

“I can't block another attack like that...” Rouge admitted, eyeing Luffy. “Ace might be getting stronger, but I'm still not back in my prime living days just yet.”

Luffy frowned at that. “Is Ace okay?”

“Yeah, he'll be fine,” Rouge said softly. “Worry more about yourself right now.”

Rouge paused when Nami walked past her and Luffy, raising her staff, thing? Rouge wasn't quite sure what that was to be honest. It did look pretty cool though.

Holy shit, she just distracted Zeus with her thunder clouds.

“Hell yeah!” Rouge cheered. “Go, Nami, that was awesome!”

Nami blushed and rubbed the back of her head. “Hearing you say that is kind of amazing, Rouge.”

“Rahahahaha!”

The problem was of course Linlin, and the giant angry sun quickly filling the skies.

“Okay, yeah I definitely can't block that...” Rouge admitted.

.::.

Holy shit. Nami just used Zeus to make a powerful blast.

HOLY SHIT! SHE WAS SO COOL!

“My navigator is awesome, isn't she?” Luffy beamed.

“Hell yeah, she is!” Rouge grinned.

Nami blushed, but looked very pleased nonetheless.

.::.

Zoro immediately had his hands on his swords, ready to pull them out, when Pudding (and Chiffon?) flew down next to them on that weird flying carpet. Zoro made sure he and Luffy were in front of Sanji, to keep him from getting any stupid heart shaped ideas, as they ran.

“Pudding!” Luffy scowled. “You tricked us! What are you doing here?”

“To stop Mama's hunger pangs-” Pudding began.

“Tricked you?” Sanji blinked.

“She said she'd bring you to us here in these woods, but she lured us into a trap instead!” Nami snarled.

“See? We should have tied her up in the first place!” Pedro scowled.

“I can just cut her down now,” Zoro offered.

“To stop Mama's-” Pudding tried again.

“But Chiffon is with her!” Nami frowned. “I thought she was escaping with Bege.”

“You wanna fight?” Luffy snarled.

“Do I don't!” Pudding snapped. “Just listen to me!”

“Well I'm glad you're okay, Pudding-chan!” Sanji beamed. “You too, Chiffon-san!”

Pudding gasped, her face flushing. She looked shy, but stiffened up when she heard her mother screaming.

“P...P....”

Zoro raised a brow as Sanji tilted his head, curious.

“Pudding-chan?” Sanji called.

“Pathetic!” Pudding sneered. “You fools, you're not going to make it! Even if you escape by your ship Mama will chase you to the ends of the earth!”

“What did you say, you bastard?” Luffy bristled.

Zoro growled.

“That is not what we wanted to say, Pudding!” Chiffon yelled. “What are you talking about?”

“You're right! What am I saying?” Pudding gasped.

“Listen! Mama believes you stole her Wedding Cake that she really wanted to eat-” Chiffon began.

“Fuck!” Rouge groaned.

“But we don't have it!” Luffy protested.

“I know, but she won't believe you,” Chiffon sighed. “Mama will chase you across the seas until she gets that cake-”

“That's right!” Pudding laughed. “So, Sanji, come here! Watch as your friends are killed by Mama and go through hell! You'll be safe as Mama's witch!”

“What the hell is wrong with this woman?” Zoro scowled.

“If that's what you wanted to say, then go away, you fools!” Luffy hissed. “We're not letting you take Sanji!”

“Yeah, get lost you crazy girl!” Nami snarled. “And take Chiffon back to Bege safely or else!”

“Wait that wasn't it!” Chiffon protested. “Black Leg Sanji, Pudding told me you're good at making sweets as well.”

“Yeah, I'm excellent at any kind of cooking,” Sanji said.

“Okay, then help us bake the cake!” Chiffon said. “We're planning to make the cake, the only thing that can stop Mama, and help you guys escape.”

“Chiffon, why?” Nami frowned.

“I wanna pay my debt for you all saving Lola. I'm willing to risk my life to do it!”

“Even if it means you'll never see your son again?” Rouge asked sharply, her eyes narrowed.

“This is me protecting him too. Mama's hunger pang will mean we're all going to be hunted down until she gets what she craves!” Chiffon said determinedly.

Rouge grinned. “Atta girl, you're already hundred times better than Linlin.”

Pudding immediately went on some kind of rant about not being here to save them, before squealing and blushing at Sanji's name. Zoro sweat dropped. This woman was insane. All Sanji did was compliment her third eye. It was just a third eye for Davy Jones sake!

“That's good! Where can we bake this cake?” Sanji asked.

“We've got extra supplies at Chocolat Town!” Chiffon said. “We'll bake it as you Straw Hats sail our way, and we'll meet you halfway on another ship to deliver it. Mama will stop on the ship with the cake to eat it, and we'll all get away.

Nami frowned at that. “Hold on, Sanji, we just got you back! You were wearing a collar and cuffs not that long ago. What is to stop Pudding from putting them on you again?”

Luffy nodded at Zoro. “Zoro, go with Sanji.”

Zoro nodded. “Right!”

“Wait, you'll need him here with you to fight off Big Mom's army-” Sanji protested.

“Shut it, love cook. I'm coming with you,” Zoro said. “Captain's orders!”

“Yeah, Captain's order, Sanji. You're taking Zoro with you!” Luffy said sharply, eyeing Sanji's wrists and neck. “We're not risking you being restrained again. Not when you're still covered in bruises from those restraints.”

Sanji winced.

“The cake you guys bake will be the only way to stop Big Mom,” Jinbei said.

Sanji nodded. “Alright, everyone, I'm going to leave you for now, but Zoro and I will be back soon. I promise!”

“Keep him safe, Zoro!” Nami insisted.

“Love cook will be fine with me!” Zoro said.

“Luffy, see you at sea!”

“We're counting on you, Sanji! Good luck!” Luffy grinned.

“Wait!” Rouge yelled, and summoned a box to her hand. “Catch this, Sanji! It's apart of the cake!”

“Thank you, Rouge-san!” Sanji beamed.

Chapter Text

Rouge began to melt the candy off of Chopper's and Brook's bodies with a scowl, she made sure to start with their mouths, working on melting the candy choking them from the inside. She had no idea what the Straw Hats were going to do now. Luffy was trying to force Katakuri off the Sunny, but Linlin was coming in fast.

Pedro had tried to defeat Perospero when he covered their ship in candy, but Perospero captured him. Shit, Rouge should have been able to sort this out easily if she had still been alive. She could have fought off Linlin.

But none of that mattered. Rouge was dead and she had died with no regrets because she could never regret bringing Ace into this world. Not her treasure.

But dammit this was an annoying situation to be in. Rouge did not want to tell Ace, Law and Sabo that Luffy and his crew had gotten murdered by an angry food craving bitch.

“I've freed their mouths so that they can breathe,” Rouge said, heading for the railings. “I'll do my best to beat Perospero-”

“Roger said 'everyone has their own turn'!” Pedro yelled.

Rouge inhaled sharply. She saw briefly a flash of Roger, his back for the last time, leaving her home, their home, on Baterilla.

“This is my turn!” Pedro yelled, latching on to Perospero's foot with one hand, with the other opened up his coat to reveal bombs.

Rouge froze. “NO!” she screamed.

“PEDRO!” Carrot screamed.

“Goodbye.”

Pedro exploded himself.

.::.

Zoro laid on the floor, out of the way of the chefs. Pudding had messed around with their memories, making it seem like she and Sanji were married, so that they didn't cause a fuss. It had been hours now, and the kitchen smelled amazing. So far Pudding hadn't tried to do anything to Sanji, but Zoro would remain close by and watch closely. Luffy had ordered him to keep the stupid cook safe, so Zoro would.

“Oi, mosshead, wake up.” Sanji lightly tapped his leg with his foot. “We're getting ready to go to the ship now.”

Zoro eyed the cake. “I wasn't sleeping,” he said quietly. “I don't trust this lot around you.”

Sanji nodded. “I know. I don't either, well except for Chiffon.”

“Our alliance with Bege is over.” Zoro snorted. “So don't go trusting any of them. Not when they all know you're a witch now. This might just be like the events on Dressrosa with Law. We gotta be careful.”

Sanji nodded. “We'll handle it.”

“Good. So this is the cake you're gonna beat Big Mom with?”

Sanji grinned. “Yeah it is.”

“Then let's go kick her ass, love cook.”

.::.

Fuck. That Oven guy was going to kill Chiffon. Zoro gripped his swords grimly. If they were caught here, the consequences would be terrible, but they couldn't let Chiffon die either. He had to move fast-

Zoro stopped and released his swords. Never mind. Sanji had it. He used the random pink haired guy as a cover to kick Oven across the street, grab Chiffon, and retreat back to them. Pudding went bright red and had a nose bleed, while Zoro smirked.

“Nice job, love cook,” Zoro chuckled, once Sanji landed beside him.

Sanji grinned.

They tried to hide Chiffon, but Oven was relentless. Fuck, it looked like Zoro was just going to have to kill him. He was going to burn Chiffon's face-

No, instead Oven stopped, because Bege was coming for his wife. Zoro grinned at the thought. Good on him. Oven did hit Chiffon though when she tried to stop Bege from coming to port, and Zoro had to grab Sanji's wrist to stop him from leaving their hiding spot.

The earned a pained wince.

Shit- His wrists-

Zoro's blood boiled and he lifted Sanji's hands. Sanji went pale and shook his head, but he ignored that and forced Sanji's sleeves down. His wrists were bleeding again, and his hands were red and trembling. Fuck, he had been overusing his hands after having just been freed of those cuffs that had been sinking into his skin. Of course Sanji's hands were weak right now.

“I'll be fine,” Sanji said softly.

“I thought you healed them,” Zoro muttered.

“I did, but it was only a temporarily relief. Healing magic is difficult at the best of times. I don't know how Law does it,” Sanji admitted. “It doesn't help that I didn't rest them straight afterwards, but I have to make this cake. You know that, Zoro.”

Zoro gritted his teeth. “Chopper is going to be pissed.”

Sanji smiled weakly. “I'll let him take care of them once we're safe. I promise, but right now we have to do something. Chiffon's in danger-”

“Little sister, while we wait for Bege, I brought these.” Oven reached into his pocket and tossed something into Pudding's hands. “A gift for your future husband. It's better to keep him under control.”

Sanji went pale when he saw what was in her hands. It was the same necklace and cuffs as before. Zoro gritted his teeth. Fuck, they must have made multiples of them.

“I can't put those on again...” Sanji breathed out shakily, and Zoro hated the fear in his voice- his crew wasn't supposed to be that scared, never again- and readied himself to start cutting down their enemies. “I-I can't-”

“You won't,” Zoro growled.

He'd cut everyone on board this ship to pieces before those went near Sanji again.

“You go put those on him while I deal with Chiffon and Bege,” Oven ordered.

Pudding looked hesitant, throwing Sanji a worried look his way, but Oven didn't notice that, he grinned sadistically at Chiffon.

“Your husband will never take to the seas again!” Oven gloated.

That was when a bullet hit Oven and exploded, throwing him off the carriage.

Pudding beamed, turning to face Sanji, but Zoro already had the tip of his sword in her face before she could take a step closer. The chefs of course panicked, but Zoro ignored them all. He wasn't taking a risk. Sanji was not about to be restrained by those things again.

“Mosshead-” Sanji gasped, about to protest.

“Shut up, love cook!” Zoro barked. “You toss that shit overboard right now, girl. I won't say that a second time. I'm not playing around. Those stay the hell away from my crew mate.”

Pudding immediately tossed the cuffs and necklaces over the carriage rails.

Zoro lowered his sword once the restraints were gone.

“P-Pudding-sama, this ruffian-” a chef began to protest.

“Ignore him,” Pudding ordered sharply. “Focus your full attention on the cake! We've got to settle mama's craving with this.”

.::.

Sanji booted the barrel of poison right off Bege's ship, and Zoro couldn't help but smirk when Bege almost fainted at the taste of Sanji's food. That's what he got for underestimating their chef.

“Listen, Bege. Feel free to assassinate Big Mom after I've fed her. I feed anyone who wants to eat! That's what a chef does!” Sanji declared.

Jeez, even some of the chefs were fainting to the sweet smell. Zoro smirked and laid down, getting comfortable in a corner.

Sanji was going to win this fight against Big Mom easily.

.::.

Rouge paled. She had never seen Linlin so thin and starved looking before. What the hell?!

“Where's my wedding cake?” Linlin growled, searching over the ship.

“Stay back you guys!” Jinbei warned. “Get ready to abandon ship!”

Linlin was already trying to tear apart the ship, looking for her damn cake.

“How can we stop such a monster?” Brook asked shakily.

“Linlin!” Rouge yelled, pushing past the Straw Hats to get down below and approach her. “Enough of this!”

“Rouge!” Linlin scowled. “Give me my cake!”

“We don't have it!” Jinbei yelled.

“Liar!”

“Fine, then I ate your fucking cake!” Rouge snarled.

“R-ROUGE?!” the Straw Hats screamed.

“So bring it on, you nasty bitch!” Rouge baited her.

Rouge didn't manage to bring up her swords in time to block the entire blow. Fuck, she hadn't realised Linlin would be faster like this! She had never seen her in this state in the first place- Rouge screamed as she slammed through several walls of the Sunny, crashing into the girl's bedroom. She only just managed to avoid hitting Carrot who was lying unconscious on a bed.

“Dammit, Rouge!” Jinbei yelled. “Big Mom, I swear, we don't have your cake!”

“My son told me it's here!” Linlin barked. “If that's not true, then I have to kill my eldest!”

“You bitch!” Rouge snarled, trying to get up, then groaned and fell back down, clutching her side. “Fuck. I think she shattered all my ribs...”

“Are you saying my son is a liar?” Linlin growled.

He is a fucking liar... ouch, dammit. It was a good thing Rouge was dead and didn't need to breathe, because those ribs were fucked at the moment. The pain was almost blinding.

.::.

“That's right... So can I at least see your panties?” Brook asked Big Mom.

Rouge cackled, then groaned and clutched her sides. “Don't make me laugh, Brook...” she gasped, collapsing back down to the Sunny's grass again. “Ow...”

“Why did you come back out here if all your ribs are shattered?!” Chopper yelled.

“Gotta fight...”

“YOU'RE WAY TOO MUCH LIKE LUFFY!” Chopper screeched.

.::.

Zoro dropped down on to the Sunny with Sanji. Bege was sailing away with the cake, distracting Big Mom and leading her away, which thank fuck for that because Franky was going to have a meltdown when he saw the Sunny's condition.

Sanji was immediately jumped by Nami and Brook (with Chopper on his head), the pair squeezing him into a tight hug.

“We were hanging by a hair! I thought we were done for. Thank you, Sanji!” Nami cried.

“I'm glad that you're okay!” Brook beamed. “Good job, Zoro. You did it! We've finally got Sanji back!”

“Yey!” Rouge cheered from her place on the grass.

“Eh? Rouge-san!” Sanji cried. “What happened to you?”

“Big Mom punched me in the ribs,” Rouge groaned.

“By the way, Sanji-san, why were you on Bege's ship?” Brook asked.

“It's a long story. Bege still hasn't quite given up on assassinating her just yet-”

Zoro cut them off. “Oi, Chopper, we need bandages for Sanji.”

“Eh?!” Chopper cried. “We need a doctor! Sanji, your wrists! Your neck!”

“I'll be fine!” Sanji protested. “We need to get out of here first.”

“Yeah, before the ship takes anymore damage.” Zoro grimaced.

“Sorry. I should have done better...” Jinbei said softly.

“Sorry...” Rouge groaned.

“What are you talking about?” Chopper scowled. “Without you both we would have been sunk ages ago!”

“Now ain't the time!” Zoro snapped, coming out Chopper's room with his emergency kit.

“Yeah, let's talk later,” Sanji said. “I'm just glad you're all alright.” Sanji paused. “By the way. Where are Pedro and Carrot-chan?”

The others stiffened. Sanji shared a worried look with Zoro, but Zoro ignored him and grabbed his wrists, beginning to clean and bandage them since Chopper couldn't do it right now. He was lying limp on Brook's head, even after knowing about Sanji's injuries.

“T-They're both sleeping inside, exhausted! We best leave them be!” Brook insisted.

Zoro frowned. They were lying about something, but now wasn't the time. Sanji must have agreed too, because the love cook remained silent.

Chapter Text

“Zoro went off with Sanji again...” Nami groaned. “Why do they have to keep leaving?”

Rouge was trying to heal her ribs, but so far she wasn't having much luck. “His Captain gave him an order, remember? He's gotta keep Sanji safe, and Sanji is probably the only one who can get Luffy out of the trap he's heading for. We also still can't trust Pudding. Sure, she's crazy for Sanji right now, but she might still try to lead him into a trap and get him recaptured by Big Mom's kids.”

Nami scowled. “We can't let that happen again!”

“Exactly.” Rouge nodded.

.::.

Sanji, Zoro and Pudding were hiding out in a nearby building, hiding within its shadows. Sanji hadn't even tried to protest Zoro coming along this time. The cook could actually learn. Zoro had an order from Luffy. There was no way in hell he was going to fail now.

“When Luffy comes out that will be our farewell then, Pudding-ch-” Sanji said, glancing up at Pudding, but she was hiding across the room from them, staring wide eyed at Sanji with a flushed face.

God she had fallen hard. She was like a love cook 2.0, except only in love with Sanji.

“Um, can you hear me from there, Pudding-chan?” Sanji asked, laughing sheepishly.

“D-D-Don't look at me like that!” Pudding protested. “I am listening to you, Sanji-san!”

Sanji grinned. “Looking back at it now, we met in such an odd way.”

Zoro scowled. “Yeah, with the kidnapping and the restraints and trying to marry you-”

Sanji ignored him. “I had so much fun being with you, Pudding-chan,” Sanji admitted. “Regardless of all that the marimo just said.”

Zoro rolled his eyes. “Idiot.”

Sanji was too soft hearted... but better that than what his dickhead siblings and sperm donor were like.

Zoro really wanted to cut them all the pieces.

“But I'm still a Straw Hat at the end of the day, and I'm going home with them,” Sanji continued, still ignoring him, but Zoro could see his foot twitching, tempted to kick him. “So thanks for everything.”

Fucking softy.

Pudding looked devastated. She shakily began to approach, and Zoro was ready in case she did anything stupid. Her hands remained empty though. It didn't look like she was going to try and yell either and gain any attention.

“Shut up!” Pudding scowled, then paled and shook her head. “No! I did it again!” she cried.

Sanji laughed. “You're right! We're enemies after all. To you, our marriage was just a way to lock me up into the Charlotte family so that I would become Big Mom's witch, and a way to lure in the Vinsmokes to their deaths, maybe it was unpleasant for you, Pudding-chan, but I'm glad that it was you who was my fiancee.”

Pudding started sobbing through gritted teeth, trying to stay quiet. Zoro watched, amused as Sanji panicked and apologised.

“H-Hey, Sanji-san... can you do me a favour?” Pudding asked shakily.

Zoro watched closely.

Pudding snatched the cigarette out of his mouth, much to Zoro's confusion. What was she doing? Why his cigarette? Did she want to smoke-

Zoro choked when Pudding dragged Sanji into a kiss, and took away his memories of said kiss. Zoro had been about to act, but that was all she took, her face flushed, and eyes streaming with tears.

She really had fallen in love with Sanji. All because he complimented her eyes? Bloody hell...

Pudding took off the moment Sanji's memory of the kiss was gone, clutching the memory tight in her hands. Sanji was baffled, but Zoro didn't bother telling him what just happened.

Luffy was about to arrive.

Besides, Sanji really could do without that baggage. Pudding was the crazy woman who had been happy to force him into a loveless marriage.

They didn't need Sanji falling head over heels for her too.

.::.

Rouge frowned. “I've healed myself as best as I can.”

“Good timing, because we've arrived,” Jinbei said gravely.

.::.

“Luffy's out!” Zoro yelled.

Sanji attacked the guy in the sky about to stab Luffy and grabbed him.

“It's the Vinsmoke witch!” Oven yelled. “Capture Mama's witch!”

Zoro followed Sanji on the rooftops, sending flying sword attacks down into the crowd below.

“I'll try keep these assholes off you!” Zoro yelled. “You keep Luffy safe!”

“Got it!”

.::.

“I'm going in.”

“Rouge, what-” Nami gasped.

Rouge took off with a leap into the sky.

Pekoms was going to die.

.::.

Sanji saw all the spears in Pekoms, pinning him to the ground, and heard the Big Mom Pirates yell to tear out his eyes.

“No, Pekoms!” Sanji yelled.

A blur raced past him, and he saw Rouge swing her swords.

“Pick Pocket!”

A rain of smaller sword swings flew into the air, cutting right through all the spears and into the Big Mom Pirates. Rouge landed in front of Pekom's limp body, her face dark and cold.

“Back off,” she ordered, and a wave of haki came crashing out of her into the surrounding Big Mom Pirates.

Zoro lunged in and attacked the man with the giant hammer trying to whack Sanji from behind.

“Don't get distracted, love cook!” Zoro yelled. “Rouge will handle the main crowd!”

“Shit, but Pekoms-” Sanji hissed.

“We can't do anything. Focus on Luffy!” Zoro insisted.

“What a coincidence, Sanji.”

Both Sanji and Zoro startled at that, and watched as the Vinsmokes began to attack the Big Mom Pirates. Ichiji had stopped on the rooftop beside Zoro, standing across from him with a frown.

“We were here to pay back the Big Mom Pirates,” Ichiji said. “You can take your injured and go. We're dealing with them now.”

Zoro scowled. “And Sanji?”

“He can go too,” Ichiji said. “We're Vinsmokes. We don't need failures like him. Burning him alive at a pyre will only make us weaker.”

Sanji fought back the panic that stirred in his ancestors, but only just. He had to force himself to breathe through the terror.

“Judge seemed quite intent on doing that to me,” Sanji said coldly.

“Father is dead.”

Sanji stiffened up.

“Portgas D. Ace assassinated him.”

Rouge froze, then rapidly ducked to dodge an attack, but her face was now livid.

Sanji and Zoro both paled.

“A-Ace?” Sanji stuttered.

“Yes. He left with one warning,” Ichiji said. “That what happened three hundred years ago was not to happen again, otherwise he'd burn us all alive instead.”

“Now go, Sanji!” Reiju yelled.

“She's right. Get out of here,” Ichiji agreed. “We'll handle this now. We don't want to owe you a debt.”

“Owe me a debt?” Sanji's brow furrowed.

“The woman, your navigator, she said she only saved us because you wanted it, because you are kind.” Ichiji spat out the word 'kind' like it was disgusting. “If it had been her choice, she would have left us to die. She said that last part rather gleefully too.”

Sanji startled at that.

“So we do this and whatever has happened between us all is done,” Ichiji insisted.

“Like hell-” Zoro scowled but Sanji tugged him into action.

“Let's go, Marimo!”

“Seriously?” Zoro frowned at him.

“Yeah, it's fine.”

“Let hell it is,” Zoro grumbled, but obeyed.

They both ran. Brulee screamed that Luffy had defeated Katakuri. That they couldn't let him escape. It shocked the Charlotte family for a bit, giving Sanji and Zoro more time to put some distance between them, but then the Big Mom Pirates grew pissed.

.::.

Rouge paled. “Fuck.”

Luffy had just made a whole bunch of enemies for life.

.::.

Zoro was doing his best, but there were so damn many of them and all of those assholes were aiming for Sanji and Luffy! Even the ones Rouge knocked out with her Conqueror's Haki were up and fighting through sheer anger. That was bullshit!

Rouge blocked off Oven's path to them, but she seemed to have her hands full with that. Honestly, Rouge looked like a wreck, a beaten, battered wreck.

“Get out of my way, Rouge!” Oven screamed, flames pouring out from him.

“If you really think a bit of heat bothers me, then you're barking up the wrong tree, Oven!” Rouge snarled. “I won't let you hurt one of my kids!”

A bullet hit Sanji in the arm. Zoro snarled and cut down the one who did that. The fucker!

“Bastard!” Zoro growled. “Don't shoot my crew mates!”

“Marimo, you're outta rooftops!” Sanji yelled, grabbing him around the waist and taking off into the sky.

.::.

“Your wrists are fucked after this,” Zoro complained, but thankfully he didn't squirm.

Sanji laughed sheepishly. Zoro was right though, his arms felt like they were on fire, and his wrist was pulsing, shooting stabbing pains up into his hands and deep into the joints. He didn't think that the cuffs had did that much damage, but sadly it seemed they had.

Sanji couldn't afford to have those things go back on his precious hands again.

“Shoot! They're above the rooftops!”

“Fuck!” Zoro cursed in his ears. “One sword-”

Somebody grabbed them though and the world went speeding by as an explosion went off somewhere behind them. Sanji yelped, as did Zoro.

“You're too slow. You'll be filled with bullets!” Niji said. “You're still alive, right, failure?”

“Damn you!” Sanji cursed.

“Fucking blue asshole!” Zoro sneered.

“You give us nothing but trouble,” Niji complained.

“Then don't kidnap our chef to marry him off in the first place, you blue wannabe dartbrow!” Zoro snapped.

“Blue wannabe dartbrow?” Niji scowled. “I'm superior to Sanji!”

“Says the guy who needs an ugly suit to do literally anything,” Zoro mocked.

“You're the ones who started all this up in the first place,” Sanji complained. “So don't start with that 'you give us nothing but trouble' when you're the one dragging me into it!”

“Yeah, yeah,” Niji scoffed. “Goodbye, failure!”

Niji flung them and sent them all flying across the sky. Sanji and Zoro both screaming.

“I'll cut him to pieces!” Zoro screamed in his ear.

“At least we're not getting hit like Luffy usually does to us!” Sanji yelled back.

“Fuck him anyway!”

Chapter Text

Oven growled. “I won't let you get away, you damn fishman!”

He dug his hands into the ocean and heated it up to boiling temperature. The fishman was trying to get away with the Straw Hats in its mouth. There was no way Oven would allow that. Not after Straw Hat Luffy had beaten Katakuri.

Straw Hat was a dead man.

“Sorry, but I can't let you do that.”

Oven startled. He didn't recognise that voice. He turned around, but was too late, the shorter man booted him off the paddle ship. Off the paddle ship and into the sea. Oven couldn't swim. Not with his Devil Fruit.

He kept sinking down into the darkness of the ocean.

.::.

“Sanji is on that ship,” Ace said, chewing on some of the leftover wedding cake from the wedding this morning. “And so is my mum and little brother. So don't bother them when they're trying to escape.”

.::.

Rouge inhaled sharply.

“Shadow Lady?” Luffy tilted his head.

“Rouge, what's wrong?” Nami frowned.

Rouge could feel Ace's haki and magical energy. He was so close.

“I need to go,” Rouge said, and teleported herself out.

.::.

“Rouge went really pale just there,” Nami said softly. “Is she alright?”

Luffy frowned. “She felt someone's haki...”

It felt familiar, but Luffy couldn't place it. It wasn't one he really recognise, although he did know it. Luffy scrunched up his face.

“Luffy?” Zoro raised a brow.

“I know that haki.” Luffy scowled. “But who is it?”

.::.

“Oh boy, Luffy sure did cause a lot of chaos!” Ace laughed.

Rouge could hear his laughter from down the street. She ran, despite the aches and pain through her body, her ribs throbbing angrily, but she ignored them all.

“Ace!” Rouge yelled, stopping to pant when she finally could see him.

He stood at the opposite end of the street, watching her curiously. He was eating some chocolate off of someone's house, and tossed her some. Rouge caught it automatically, but she didn't pay it any attention in favour of memorising her son's figure. He looked healthy. Thank the seas. His hair was a bit longer and now tied back in a low pony tail, and he had some scruff on his jaw now.

“Hello, Mum.”

“I'm surprised you're out of Mariejois,” Rouge admitted, slowly approaching Ace.

He crossed his arms. “The Elders were complaining about the Vinsmokes trying to kill Sanji and getting themselves murdered again, so I decided to come down and deal with it.”

“Again?”

“Yeah, the last time they killed the Vinsmoke witch, Imu came down and slaughtered them all except one,” Ace explained, holding up a single finger. “And don't ask about Imu, I really can't tell you anything.”

“And now?” Rouge frowned.

“I'm going back home.”

“Home?” Rouge scowled.

“To Mariejois.”

“I was hoping since you were further away from Mariejois, some of the effects might have lessened on you,” Rouge sighed. “Is Imu really that strong, Ace?”

Ace frowned thoughtfully. “Well Imu did banish you into the afterlife for two years.”

“True.” Rouge grimaced. “We all miss you a lot, Ace...”

“I miss you all too,” Ace said softly, closing the gap between them, and Rouge bit her lip when he pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I love you, Mum.”

“I love you more, Ace.” Rouge traced her hands over his cheeks, brushing her thumbs against them. “Please don't leave...”

Ace hugged her tight. “I have to.”

Rouge clutched him even tighter. “Can't I stop you?”

“No. You can't. Imu's magic is ready to teleport me back,” Ace said. “Imu prepared the spell on me already.” Ace laughed sheepishly. “I mean the Elders did tell me not to leave, but Imu was upset, I had to do something!”

Rouge let out a wet laugh. “Of course you did.”

There was a shimmer of magic over Ace, and Ace sighed and pulled back, smiling softly.

“Sorry, Mum. I've got to go.”

Rouge shook her head. “Your father is going to be sad you only saw me, y'know, Ace. Eddy's going to seriously ground you when we get you back home.”

Ace laughed. “Tell them all that I love them, okay?”

“I will.”

Ace disappeared in a flash of light, and Rouge sobbed into her hands. He was gone again.

Ace was gone and she had only seen him for mere seconds.

Her son.

Her son was gone again.

She allowed herself to cry for a good few minutes, then swallowed back the tears and gritted her teeth. Rouge grabbed her den den mushi and called Sabo.

“Hey, Rouge-”

“I saw Ace.”

“WHAT?!” Sabo screamed.

“He was just in Big Mom's territory assassinating Vinsmoke Judge,” Rouge revealed. “I...” Her voice wobbled. “I got a hug...”

Sabo remained silent for a few minutes after that, but Rouge could hear him taking in a deep breath, trying to calm himself. “Are you going to be okay, Rouge?”

“Not really...” she admitted. “Seeing Ace only to lose him in less than five minutes feels like I've just been stabbed in the heart.”

“Can you come to me?” Sabo asked.

Rouge bit her lip and leaned against a wall. “I'll make sure Luffy and his crew get out of Big Mom's territory first...”

“Why the hell are they even there?”

“A long story. I'll tell you when I see you, but first I'm going to make sure they're okay...” Rouge said softly.

“We're going to Reverie soon, Rouge.”

“Good, because I can't take this for much longer,” Rouge admitted.

It was taking every ounce of her being not to go to Mariejois again and murder everything she could get a hold of to vent her rage. It wouldn't free Ace. No, it would probably just earn her another banishment from the living world.

“Hold on for just a bit longer for me,” Sabo pleaded.

“You've got me. I'll be there for Reverie with you,” Rouge promised. “I swear it.”

.::.

Luffy's voice wobbled. “M-My bounty has decreased...”

Rouge choked.

“It's went down to one hundred and fifty beli!” Luffy sobbed.

Rouge paused at that. Ah, right, he probably wasn't reading it correctly. Rouge picked up the wanted poster Luffy dropped to the deck and read it.

“Luffy, you read it wrong,” Rouge sighed. “To be fair though, numbers were never really your strong point.”

“Huh?” Luffy blinked up at her hopefully.

“It's one point five billion belis now.”

“EH?!” all the Straw Hats screamed.

Rouge smirked. “You're beginning to catch up to Roger. His was in the five billions.”

“EEEEHHHHHH?!”

“W-What was yours, Rouge?” Nami asked shakily.

“Four point five billion beli,” Rouge said, ignoring the screams. “I wasn't as destructive as Roger since I was mostly a thieving pirate, instead of fighting everything that so much as looked at me like that lunatic did.”

“YOU SAY THAT AS IF YOURS IS STILL A SMALL THING!” Nami screeched.

“In comparison to most of my friends it kinda was,” Rouge mused. “Linlin is a bit off mine, while Kaido is a bit higher, but then again those assholes from the World Government still haven't put me as active again, those fuckers...”

“Anyway,” Rouge continued. “I saw Ace by the way-”

“WHY DIDN'T YOU SAY THAT FIRST!” Luffy screamed. “WHERE? WHEN?”

“On Cacao Island,” Rouge said. “Ichiji said that Ace had assassinated Judge, remember? He was still lingering around. I think he killed Oven to help us escape.”

“Ace assassinated Judge?!” Nami gasped.

“Good riddance,” Zoro scoffed.

“I'm not sure what will happen to Germa now after his death, but I assume Reiju or Ichiji will be in charge now,” Sanji mused. “As long as they leave me alone, I don't care.”

“Was Ace alright?” Luffy began.

“Yes, he looked healthy,” Rouge sighed. “But he was teleported back to Mariejois before I could really speak to him to be honest. I got a hug, and that was about it.”

Luffy bit his lip. “Ace...”

“I'm going to the Revolutionary Army to try help them out on a project to get Ace back that they and the Whitebeards have been working on for a while now,” Rouge said. “I'll make sure to let you know if we have any luck.”

“What are you going to do?” Nami asked.

“Break in during the Reverie.” Rouge grinned sharply.

“EHHHH?!”

“So bye!” Rouge waved.

“Wait, you're going right now?” Nami cried out.

“Yeah, you guys are outta Linlin's territory. I'm excited to see what chaos you lot cause in Wano next. Rahahahaha!”

Luffy startled her though by pulling her into a hug.

“Luffy?” Rouge blinked down at him.

“Stay safe.”

Rouge softened and lowered her arms, hugging him back just as tightly. “I'll do my best.”

“And bring Ace home.”

“With Sabo and I working together?” Rouge grinned sharply. “We will.”

They had to.

“Shishishishi, of course you will. You two can't be beat, especially when you work together.” Luffy grinned brightly up at her.

Chapter Text

Rouge cackled at Garp's 'introduction' to King Stelly. Sabo smirked at her, amused, but otherwise he didn't comment. Thatch looked gleeful.

Rouge and Thatch had met up with Sabo's group at Sabaody hours ago. It had taken quite a bit of magic on Rouge's part to get to Thatch, then bring him to Sabaody, after having just fought in Linlin's territory, but there was no way in hell she was missing out on this, nor was she letting Thatch down either by not bringing him.

They had both been waiting for this day for a long time coming.

“Stelly is your adopted brother, right, Sabo?” Lindbergh asked.

“I can see the family resemblance,” Thatch teased Sabo.

Sabo twitched and whacked him across the head, earning a choked yelp.

“You kinda deserved that one,” Rouge chuckled, petting Thatch's hair.

“Ouchie...” Thatch groaned.

“The way I see it Portgas D. Rouge is my mother-” Sabo said.

Rouge flushed, but couldn't help the warmth that grew in her chest, lifting her spirits, and she definitely couldn't resist a smile.

Sabo grinned wolfishly. “Since she raised me and kept me safe back in Goa for many years.”

“My kids are brats,” Rouge complained. “Although I don't think your whole 'Portgas D. Sabo' thing really worked.”

“Yeah, guess the Elders know who really is a witch and who isn't...” Sabo muttered, eyeing her.

“I'm sorry, I do know why, but I can't say it,” Rouge admitted.

She had tried to tell Sabo and Dragon about Imu, but she actually couldn't. She couldn't even say his name, nor even write it down. It was very annoying. Sabo patted her shoulder reassuringly.

“Now I'm gonna go steal us some uniforms. Stay here, Thatch,” Sabo said, dropping down into an alley.

“Does it come in pink?” Thatch asked.

“I think it's blue,” Lindbergh said. “Maybe silver.”

“Boo.”

.::.

Garp munched on some more rice crackers as he got into the bondola. There would be some complaints. He wasn't supposed to go up to Mariejois to be honest, but he didn't give a damn. He was finally here and nothing would stop him now.

“You're coming up with us jamon?”

“There's a brat of mine I want to see who lives up here,” Garp said. “I haven't had the chance to check up on him since he arrived two years ago.”

“Is that Portgas D. Ace?” Neptune asked.

“Oh yeah, you would have known him from Newgates' crew!” Garp grinned.

“He misses Ace greatly jamon.” Neptune frowned. “He was brought up here because he's a witch heir, right?”

Garp sighed. “Aye, I bet he does. He's always been close to his family, and yeah, Ace was brought here because he's the Portgas Clan's witch heir. It was better for him in the long run. Ace had already been kidnapped from Newgate's crew before.”

“By Blackbeard jamon.” Neptune frowned.

“Yeah, that little shit.”

.::.

Thatch wanted to yell at Garp. How the hell was this better for Ace? He was imprisoned on Mariejois and under somebody's control. He wasn't in his right mind. Ace hadn't been in his right mind for years! It was pissing Thatch off like nobody's business!

At least Stelly's shrieking was amusing.

That was the only thing keeping Thatch focused, otherwise the rage coursing through him would have reached boiling point, and he'd have tried to murder Garp. Unsuccessfully of course, because that fucker was insane, but maybe if Thatch had been lucky he could have tackled Garp off the bondola.

.::.

Vivi felt a little disorientated, she had to admit. Karoo was helping her out a lot, nudging her whenever she blanked out and stared off into space, but it was starting to get annoying.

Although right now it was Karoo who was distracted by what looked like a fairy. Vivi held what was actually a dwarf carefully in her hands, but he didn't like to be called cute it seemed.

“Sorry, sorry,” Vivi laughed sheepishly. “You move so fast that I hardly noticed you. It was Karoo who spotted you.”

“I showed myself to you because I heard you were a friend of Luffyland. We're his subordinates!”

“Subordinates?” Vivi blinked.

Luffy really wasn't the type to have subordinates. Strange. Vivi wondered what happened to set that up.

“It's nice to see Luffy-san and the others found an amazing subordinate,” Vivi admitted, smiling warmly. “It's lovely to meet you, Leo-san.”

“Are you talking about Luffy-sama?”

Vivi let out a strangled yelp when the Mermaid Princess leaned down to smile at them. Her brother told her off, but Vivi offered her a small smile. She didn't answer just in case though.

“I'm indebted to Luffy-sama,” Princess Shirahoshi admitted, beaming.

Vivi sighed. “You might want to be more careful who you tell that to. Luffy-san is still a pirate.” She smiled. “But I am too, funnily enough. I really do miss them all.”

Of course Wapol had to spoil the mood, only for someone to walk past him, interrupting his speech. Vivi paused, then gasped.

“Wait, you're Ace!” Vivi cried out.

Luffy's big brother. The one who got kidnapped by Blackbeard. Luffy had been worried about him, Sabo, the Whitebeard Commander Thatch, and Rouge as well. They had all been searching for him.

“Hello, sister,” Ace greeted, halfway through eating a cake.

“Hello, brother,” Vivi said automatically, then shook her head. “You're Luffy's brother!”

“Ah! You were one of Blackbeard's minions!” Wapol cried.

“I seem to be getting recognised a lot today,” Ace chuckled, then looked over Wapol, Ace grinned brightly. “Oh yeah, we chased you off of Drum and robbed you of your treasure,” Ace mused. “Funny meeting you here.”

“You little brat!”

“I thought I heard a nasty voice here.”

Vivi startled at that voice, and beamed.

“I can't believe you became the king of another poor country.” Dalton scowled.

“The government must be in decline,” Dr. Kureha chuckled. “Why do they want to associate themselves with this fool?”

“Dalton-san!” Vivi greeted warmly. “Dr. Kureha! It's nice to see you both again!”

“Hello, Vivi-chan. You've became even more dignified.” Dalton smiled warmly.

“Too crowded...” Ace groaned, trying to slip away, but Dr. Kureha caught him by his shirt, earning a strangled yelp.

“Not so fast you,” Dr. Kureha huffed. “You look well.”

Ace eyed Vivi, much to her confusion, then Dr. Kureha, but Dr. Kureha shook her head, so Ace whispered quietly to her instead.

Vivi wondered what that was about.

.::.

“She doesn't know you're a witch?” Ace whispered.

“No, I didn't tell her,” Dr. Kureha said. “The only reason you ever knew was because of that Rouge girl. Now, how have you been doing up here?”

“I'm good.”

“You've not tried to escape?” Dr. Kureha raised a brow. “I know your family misses you a lot.”

“I can't explain it to you right now, but I'm happy here.”

“So whatever calls us here-”

“I can't tell you,” Ace said, slipping out her grasp. He could see a server leaving with the meat tray. He wanted that meat tray. There was food still left on it.

He ignored Dr. Kureha's huff. There was something more important he had to deal with. His dinner was getting away.

.::.

“Ace-sama, this is supposed to be for the guests!” a server complained.

Garp froze the moment he heard that name and whirled around. Ace was hassling a server, piling up his plate from the server's tray.

“It's fine. I'm hungry-”

“You live here, Ace-sama-”

“Ace!” Garp yelled, rushing his way.

“Hey, Gramps.”

“Grandpa!” Garp demanded, but yanked Ace into a hug, earning a startled yelp. He searched over Ace, and breathed out a sigh of relief when he couldn't see any restraints or people guarding him.

Senny had told him Ace was fine, and even showed him photographs, but it wasn't the same thing as seeing his grandson physically. He was so relieved Ace hadn't been locked up in some kind of cell.

Ace patted his back. “It's good to see you too, Grandpa.”

“I'm glad they didn't lock you up,” Garp breathed out, holding Ace back by his shoulders to get a good look at his grandson.

Ace's hair was a bit longer, tied now into a low ponytail, and he had a bit of scruff on his face. He wore trousers and a loose shirt, nothing like what he used to wear as a pirate. In fact, Garp had never seen his grandson wear anything remotely formal. He looked healthy and relaxed, and the sight soothed Garp.

“You're okay?” Garp asked softly.

Ace grinned. “Yep! I live here in Pangaea Castle.”

“Really?” Garp startled.

“Yeah. My suite is so fancy, so I've messed it up a few times!” Ace laughed.

“And you haven't tried to run away?” Garp frowned.

“No.” Ace shook his head. “I'm happy here, Gramps. I don't want to leave.”

That didn't sound right. He had expected Ace to try climb down the mountain or steal a bondola, or anything. Not this calm obedience. He had expected Ace to fight tooth and nail to get back to the Whitebeards.

Garp frowned thoughtfully. “You don't want to go back to the Whitebeard Pirates?”

“I miss them,” Ace admitted. “Mum, Luffy, Sabo and Law too. I wish I could let them know I'm fine here. That I'm actually happy.”

“And is this happiness to do with whatever you've been looking for all this time?” Garp asked warily.

Ace smiled warmly. “Yeah. I can't explain it, Gramps, but I'm satisfied. I belong here.”

Garp softened. “I'm glad you're safe from Teach at the very least.”

“Yeah, I heard he was giving Pops a lot of hassle,” Ace huffed. “We still haven't been able to get rid of his blood from my grimoire either, so that's been annoying.”

“You've been trying to get rid of it?”

“Yeah, but nothing has worked so far. I was told it would have been easier before Teach's blood had settled into my grimoire, but now that it's in there we're having a lot of trouble getting it out again,” Ace sighed. “It's such a pain-”

A scream startled them both.

“That's Shirahoshi!” Garp scowled.

Ace frowned. “The mermaid princess? Dammit, it was such a bad idea to bring her here.”

“Ace-” Garp's brow furrowed.

“If any of the Celestial Dragons saw her, they'll want her,” Ace sighed. “It's not like slavery ain't a thing.” Ace walked towards the commotion, Garp right on his heels.

A slave was trying to restrain Shirahoshi, and Ace could see the tension in the square escalating, but he didn't really care to be honest. He remembered Shirahoshi. How shy and timid she was. How much her brothers and father wanted to protect her, he even remembered how kind they all were, especially to the Whitebeard Pirates...

Ace even remembered having dinner with them in the palace with the Whitebeards, how fun it had been. How nervous Marco was, eyeing all the water around them, not daring to transform into his phoenix form in such a place. How Ace and Izo kept him constantly distracted to try keep his mind off it.

Although Thatch would then proceed to ruin that by mentioning how deep under water they were and how Marco's feathers would start to fall off if he kept fretting so much.

But that all felt like a different lifetime ago...

“This is going to be a pain, but I'll handle it,” Garp grumbled, clenching his fist.

Ace arched a brow. “Going to murder a Celestial Dragon?” he chuckled dryly. “How amusing.”

“No, no, just beat some sense into him-” Garp began.

But Mjsogard bet him to it.

“Well, that's one way to handle it,” Ace chuckled. “Another Celestial Dragon hitting the other.”

“Yeah. Bwahahahahaha, I thought I was gonna have to punch him there!” Garp laughed, then paused. “Oops. Forget I said that!”

Ace snorted, while everyone around them stared at Garp, horrified.

.::.

Gramps had to leave, which was a shame, he had gotten a call from his fellow Vice Admirals, lecturing him about being in Mariejois and not guarding the entrance to it and the ships like they were supposed to. The problem was Ace was already forgetting about missing his grandpa's presence, just as he had with his mum back on Cacao Island. Instead Ace sat down in the almost empty plaza and smiled.

“You're certainly being bold, Mjsogard,” Ace chuckled.

“Ace-san!” Mjsogard startled. “I didn't know you were out here.”

“I was getting food,” Ace admitted.

“It's been a long time jamon, Ace,” Neptune greeted.

“Yeah, long time no see, sorry what that asshole tried to do to Shirahoshi,” Ace huffed. “The jerk. You think he would have learned by now after the last time Luffy punched him.”

“You know Luffy-sama?” Shirohoshi asked softly.

“He and Ace are brothers,” Vivi said. “Everyone was looking for you in Alabasta. We met Thatch, Rouge and Sabo there.”

“Huh, cool,” Ace mused.

Vivi frowned, but thankfully said nothing in response to that.

“I didn't think one of the Celestial Dragons would come out here in a crowd of royals,” Fukaboshi admitted.

“It is a bit more uncommon, but honestly the only people safe from slavery here are the head witches,” Ace sighed, pointing at Vivi who nodded grimly. “A Celestial Dragon could even take a member of a royal family as their slave if they so wished to, and they still wouldn't be stopped, except as of now, by a fellow Celestial Dragon.”

He got up and stretched. “It seems like this Reverie will be eventful.”

“You think so?” Dr. Kureha tilted her head.

“Yeah. Just hopefully it will be a good kind of eventful,” Ace mused.

But something had Imu and the Elders tense. Whatever it was couldn't be good.

Chapter Text

Law stepped out of the rain and into the temple deep in town. Ikkaku wringing the rain out of her hair with a huff. They had been checking up on the Straw Hats as best as they could in their undercover missions, but now they had to take shelter from the storm.

The Straw Hats didn't worry Law at the moment though. What was worrying Law was the rumours of Doflamingo and the Donquixote Pirates being spotted in Wano. He really didn't like that thought of that.

“You don't really think he is here, do you?” Ikkaku said quietly.

“He did have a good deal running with Kaido, so it is a possibility,” Law murmured, they were keeping their voices low, not that it was particularly busy in here, but there were some people praying at old shrines. “Hopefully not, but the rumours are worrying.”

“Worrying? Worrying is when you think you forgot to place a bookmark in your book and can't remember what page you're on,” Ikkaku scoffed. “This is terrifying. I don't want to go up against that psycho again, especially not after he almost captured you through your magic.”

“We will just have to be vigilant,” Law said, then grimaced. “And hope nobody attracts any attention.”

Ikkaku threw him a bemused look. “You can count on our side of the alliance to keep out of the spotlight, but the samurai's we've got are terrible at disguises, and that ninja bitch-” Ikkaku's face soured.

Oh yeah, she hated Shinobu with a vengeance. It was unusual to see that from Ikkaku, but she actually disliked outright rude people, and Shinobu had been against the Heart Pirates in this alliance the moment she met them.

“Then there's the Straw Hats,” Ikkaku muttered. “Sure, Robin is great at infiltration, and Usopp and Franky are doing pretty nicely too, but the moment Luffy gets here...”

Law shivered.

Yeah, all infiltrating bets were off, but at least with Luffy away they could gather information.

Law's thoughts cut off abruptly when he saw a shrine at the back of the temple. There was no one there, except him and Ikkaku, but Law could hear hundreds of voices echoing from it.

“Law?” Ikkaku frowned as he walked past her.

The shrine itself was carved in the shape of a grimoire, and all the names of the head clans had been written on it. Some he could barely read anymore, most were faded, but some looked almost freshly written.

There were hundred of names written under each clan, and Law traced over his one, the Trafalgar Clan, and saw his name was there, as was Lami's.

His stomach sank at that.

Lami would have been a witch... she just hadn't gotten the chance to access her magic...

She had been so young...

“I see the Boa sisters are on here too, and Sanji, Robin, Ace and Rouge,” Ikkaku's voice startled him out his thoughts. “How in the world does this shrine know every single name of every single clan witch?”

“And then records them... it even highlights the heads of the clan too...” Law frowned, spotting Levi Trafalgar's name closer to the top of the grimoire. “It certainly is one way to keep track of us, but I can't see the World Government getting to use it if this is on Wano.”

The Portgas bloodline was rather thinned out too, as was now Law's of course, and Robin's. But the worst of them all was Sanji's. The Vinsmoke line was so far back in comparison to the other clan's that it was unreal.

“I didn't realise Wano found the witch clans important enough to keep track of them...” Ikkaku admitted.

“I didn't either.” Law shrugged. “There's a lot I still don't know about the clans to be honest. I only recently found out about the sanctuary after all.”

“It's so annoying!” Ikkaku complained.

“How do you think I feel?” Law said dryly, then winced when he accidentally cut his finger on the edge of the shrine, spilling blood on it.

“Shit, you okay-” Ikkaku cursed, then yelped when a double door glowed on to the wall behind the grimoire. “What the fuck? That's like your sanctuary.”

Law frowned curiously at the sight. “I wonder if you can go in this time.”

“Let's find out before someone comes back here and has a heart attack seeing a random door in the middle of their wall,” Ikkaku said nervously.

Law nodded and quickly opened the doors, and this time it even allowed Ikkaku through, but not without him grabbing her wrist to pull her through first. The doors closed and sealed themselves shut behind them, and Law and Ikkaku wearily walked deeper through the hallway, until they reached a large circular room.

There were thirteen pedestals circling the room.

“This looks like some kind of meeting room...” Ikkaku murmured, then stopped, staring at the pedestal in front of her. “Law, your names are on the pedestals... this one has Brook's name carved on it.”

She was right. Law could see his name staring back at him on one pedestal. Ace was on another, so was Buggy's and Paulie's. This must have been some kind of head witch's meeting room.

But why was it in Wano?

The were only two difference between the pedestals. Robin's had flowers all around the bottom of it, as if it was a place of mourning, and the other difference was that one pedestal had a large crack through it, with no name. He knelt down in front of Robin's, and his eyes widened when he saw what was carved into the rock.

For all the sacrifices you made. Thank you. We shall be free again.

Sacrifices? Law's brow furrowed. What the hell?

Law brushed away some of the dust on the pedestal, then flinched when he was pulled into a vision.

“I'm going to set us free,” a dark haired man insisted, his hair tied in a ponytail, staring at the Nico pedestal in front of him.

There was no one else at the other pedestals except for Levi, Law noticed. Levi who leaned against his pedestal like it was a wall with his arms crossed. Levi stared silently at the man, before he sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping.

“I don't know how you'll manage that,” Levi admitted. “The blood bindings on our grimoires are difficult to ignore ever since Imu spilled his blood on all of ours.”

“I don't care.” The man's eyes rose up to meet Levi's gaze, and Law startled.

They were an exact replica of Robin's eyes.

“I will free myself and my sister. I will free all of us from this curse,” the man insisted. “Joy Boy deserved better. We deserved better, and I will see that we get that, no matter the cost.”

Levi's eyes narrowed. “Imu would hunt you down if you did managed to escape the bond. He'd hunt us all down.”

“And that scares you?”

“Yes.” Levi didn't even hesitate to say it.

The other witch remained silent.

“And if that doesn't scare you, then you're either stupid or insane.” Levi scowled. “And I know you aren't stupid, Nico-ya.” Levi grimaced as he looked around the room. “Nobody else is here.”

Nico's face fell. “No...”

“Lili has her own plot going on, Sora is a inconsolable mess after all the death and suffering that happened. Ann is...” Levi winced. “The head witches are at a stand point right now.”

“That is why I need to do this,” Nico said firmly. “I need to try fix this. Imu bound us to him, but we're witches. We're supposed to be free. It's just as Joy Boy said, and I will not ignore his words. It can take days, months, years, but I will figure this out.”

“When you do let me know,” Levi sighed heavily, but smirked at Nico. “And I'll join you when Imu slaughters us both for our insubordination.”

Law startled awake when he felt hands dragging him down, and winced when his back collided with a pillar. Ikkaku looked absolutely terrified, pressing a finger to her lips, warning him to be quiet. Law grimaced, then flinched when he heard voices whispering to each other.

“I've told you a hundred times already that we can't be down here, Hiyori,” a man said.

“I know.” Hiyori's sigh was heavy. “But I just... I always have this urge to come here as father did. It feels like a place to meet an old friend...”

The man tsked. “I understand the urge to do some of the things your father did, but you need to be careful regardless. We're in a dangerous position. We need to be patient.”

“It's just...” Hiyori whispered, a mournful tone in her voice. “The head witches make me feel safe. I always like to come here when I can. It gives me hope that we can save Wano.”

“...I remember your mother's tales about the witches of her time. She knew a few, but not all of them. They were her friends though,” the man said.

“Legends say they appear where big events will happen,” Hiyori said. “I just hope that they come here, to give us a sign, that things will change for the better.” Her sigh was tired, but Law heard her footsteps marching away, now firm and ready. “Let's go. I've got a meeting to prepare for.”

“Of course, and you remembered the blood?”

“I always carry it with me.”

Law and Ikkaku remained completely silent until their footsteps were gone. Ikkaku was pale, staring at him with wide eyes, while Law peered round cautiously.

The meeting room was empty again.

“That was too close,” Ikkaku whispered.

Law nodded. “Let's get out of here. I'll tell the others about it later.”

“Yeah, Robin, Brook, Sanji, they'd want to know more,” Ikkaku agreed.

They quickly retreated from the temple and headed back for the others. They took the longest way possible, trying to leave as little tracks behind them as possible, the problems of course started once they arrived in Bakura Town. There seemed to be a lot of ruckus, and automatically Law and Ikkaku shared a look.

“Straw Hat?” she asked.

“Straw Hat.”

“Welcome to Wano, Trafalgar Law,” a vaguely familiar voice called out, and both Law and Ikkaku turned around at the sound of Hawkins, who sat on... okay, Law wasn't entirely sure what that creature was to be honest.

What the hell had Hawkins found exactly? Was that a reindeer?

Law counted the henchmen behind Hawkins, but dismissed them quickly. They weren't going to be a problem thankfully. Just Hawkins.

“The last time we saw each other was back in Sabaody,” Hawkins mused. “You don't seem to be a tourist though. Why are you and your alliance here, Trafalgar Law?”

“It's been a while, Hawkins,” Law said. “I still owe you for outing me as a head witch.”

Hawkins grimaced. “I do apologise for that. It was rather careless of me.”

“And what do you mean by 'my alliance'?” Law scowled.

“I saw Straw Hat with Roronoa earlier,” Hawkins said. “They've been causing quite the ruckus.” He jerked his head back, towards the sounds of yelling and buildings smashing.

Law barely fought off the urge to scream.

Ikkaku groaned. “I knew it.”

“Then maybe we should silence you before you reveal anymore of my secrets,” Law said, summoning his room and drawing Kikoku, as Ikkaku drew her daggers.

Ikkaku swung her daggers the moment his room was up, tearing through the henchmen, earning loads of panicked screams as their bodies floated apart in Law's room, while Law cut through Hawkin's shoulder, but the blow appeared on one of the henchmen instead as his arm popped off.

“I forgot how weird that devil fruit of his was,” Ikkaku huffed. “The blows always land on his henchmen instead, right?”

Law grimaced. That was an annoying ability.

“You speak of strange abilities, but I always found yours to be curious, Trafalgar,” Hawkins said, just as his den den mushi began to ring, although it looked stranger than the usual ones.

“The thieves have defeated Master Holdem and are currently on the run! We've already reported to Master Jack.”

Hawkins smirked, even as he hung up the call. “As you can see you are no longer hidden. If Jack knows the Straw Hats are here, then Kaido will now know as well. It's over.”

Law cursed.

“Hey, you guys over there!” another familiar voice yelled. “Move out the way!”

“Excuse us, please!” a woman called out.

There was a giant carriage full of food charging towards them. Zoro was standing on it, and the sight boiled Law's blood.

Seriously, they couldn't go a single day without causing problems?

Law grabbed Ikkaku and teleported them both away on to the carriage with hundreds of fresh food on top of it. He was going to kill those morons. He swore on his ancestors. He'd strangle them all with his bare hands.

.::.

“You've only just arrived here and already you're causing trouble!” Law ranted, while Ikkaku munched on an banana, watching with glee.

Law actually had a hold of Zoro's collar, about ready to shake him in his fury, and Ikkaku loved to watch it. It was so rare to see Law so pissed off. Zoro might actually get cursed for this one.

“But not only are you a wanted man, not even a day since arriving here, but you also brought Jack down upon us!” Law yelled. “He knows we're here!”

“Sorry,” Zoro apologised, looking away, but he didn't look sheepish or anything, he just looked bored.

“U-Um, Zorojuro, who is this?” the tall woman asked. “Is everything alright?”

“No, it's not!” Law bristled.

“S-Sorry!” the woman yelped.

“I had no choice,” Zoro insisted. “I was with Luffy, and we had to rescue the kid.”

“Kid?” Law frowned over at the girl, and blinked at the Headliner with her. “Why is a Headliner here?”

“Luffy seemed to have won her over when rescuing the girl.” Zoro shrugged, as Law released him. Ikkaku immediately shoved an apple into his hand, much to Law's annoyance, but she ignored his glare and poked at his hand until he started eating.

“He's doing as he likes...” Law grumbled.

“Doesn't he always?” Ikkaku sighed.

“Hey, kid, where is Luffy-ya? I thought he was with you,” Law called out.

The girl smiled. “He said he'd be back soon. That he had to grab something important.”

“Something important?” Law frowned, eyeing Zoro, but he shrugged again.

“I take it you got your chef back alright?” Ikkaku whispered.

“Yeah, love cook's back,” Zoro said. “But we got separated from them on the way here. I ended up washed up on the beach with the Sunny and Luffy.”

“Hopefully they're alright,” Ikkaku murmured. “I trust them to stay hidden, unlike you two-” She ignored Zoro's protest. “But they won't know everything in the area is poisoned and not the eat it.”

Hopefully the others were safe.

Chapter Text

Luffy just crushed a bunch of Kaido's henchmen to death with a giant bucket of water. Law never would have dreamed that he'd have that thought in his head, but now it was there and it was stuck there.

Luffy hadn't even noticed. He was too busy making sure the villagers knew who to say brought them the food if anyone came asking. He also chatted to the girl for a bit, but then grinned when he spotted Law. Instantly arms snaked around Law, and Luffy yanked him into a hug.

“Traffy!” Luffy beamed. “It's been a while!”

“Get off me!” Law complained, shoving his palm into Luffy's face.

“But it's been ages-”

“It's not been that long!” Law snapped. “Put me down!”

Luffy did with a grin. “Did you get some food too, Traffy?”

Law sighed. “I know you wanted to help these people, Luffy, but what you are doing is rebelling against the Land of Wano.”

“Rebelling?” Luffy titled his head. “That's not what this is about!” he protested, then grinned and handed an apple to the girl. “Here!”

The girl gasped, and took it with a bright smile, one that sent a painful pang through Law. It only served to remind him of Lami, and that was still a painful wound no matter how many years had passed.

“This is me repaying the food you gave me, Tama.” Luffy grinned, placing his hand gently on her head, his eyes warm. “And this is just the start of it.”

“Hey, look at this meat!”

“Meat?” Luffy was instantly standing up straight, and sprinted over. “Hey, save some meat for me! Meat! Meat! Meat!”

“Pirates doing nice things...” Law grumbled. “It makes me sick...”

“This is going to cause a lot of trouble for us,” Zoro said.

“You don't get to say that!” Law bristled.

Ikkaku snorted. “We should move on. We've been hiding out at the mountaintop near the ruins of Oden's castle.”

“You'll want to meet the ghosts of Wano,” Law said.

Luffy blinked as he walked back over, an assortment of meats in his hands, snaked between fingers. “Ghosts?”

“They've got quite the story to tell,” Law said.

Ikkaku shuddered, atta girl. “Yeah, they really spooked me.”

Zoro and Luffy shared a look, and Luffy looked a bit nervous.

“There you will learn a horrifying truth,” Law said, trying to hold back the glee that threatened to enter his voice.

.::.

Ikkaku fell into hysterics when Luffy started screaming. Law barely managed to hold back his smile. Ah, that was perfect, perfect revenge for all the shit Luffy kept putting him through. Luffy had thought Kin'emon was dead and about to haunt them as a ghost, but thankfully Kin'emon just has a bad stomach.

Ikkaku collapsed, still laughing hard, and Law barely braced her with his leg in time to keep her from falling into the dirt. Luffy looked horrified, then scowled.

“Traffy! He's alive!” Luffy bristled.

“When did I say he was dead?” Law asked, struggling to hold back a smirk. “I told you that he might appear at night from the bathroom.”

“You misled me!” Luffy scowled.

Law was about to comment, then that Kiku woman went and tackled Kin'emon, and then the others Straw Hats arrived, as did Penguin and Shachi. Law quickly checked up on Bepo, before getting a hold of Sanji to heal the bruises on his neck, chest and wrists while Kin'emon explained everything to the last of the Straw Hats.

But Law really didn't like what Sanji told him about the necklace and bracelet Big Mom made Sanji wear. That was foreboding at best.

If something could make jewellery that bound them to their will, instead of putting blood into their grimoire, then all bets were off. They couldn't just hide their grimoires anymore to keep safe.

Law gritted his teeth. “This is bad.”

“Yeah,” Sanji sighed. “Hopefully Big Mom keeps it to herself, but if anyone else finds out...”

“We're doomed,” Law said gravely.

“Uh, Captain?” Penguin called out.

Law frowned and looked outside, and grimaced when he saw the sky was rapidly darkening. He walked outside, as did Sanji, and they both shared a look.

Something big was coming. Something powerful.

“Is it about to rain?” Shachi asked, his brow furrowed.

“No,” Law said grimly. “Hey, Luffy-ya! Get over here now!”

Luffy frowned curiously, but he listened, hurrying over with the others. “What's wrong, Traffy?”

“Traffy?” Nami called out, but then looked at the skies, and her face went pale. “That isn't the weather doing that...” she whispered hoarsely.

Zoro scowled. “This is bad.”

Lightning flashed, and Law swore he saw the silhouette of a dragon in the skies. Momonosuke turned into his dragon form, whimpering and shaking, even as Kin'emon grabbed him, trying to comfort him.

“We're in trouble, Luffy-ya,” Law hissed.

“A dragon?” Luffy gasped.

“Things can't get any worse.” Law gritted his teeth. “Dammit! It's Kaido.”

“T-That's Kaido?” Ikkaku paled rapidly.

“Why would Kaido appear here without warning?” Kin'emon frowned.

“I'm sorry, Kin'emon. I'm afraid that is our fault,” Law sighed. “Zoro-ya, Luffy-ya and I were all recognised.”

“You what?” Kin'emon yelled.

“What kind of shoddy operation are you running, Law?” Sanji scowled.

“You don't get to criticise me. It was you Straw Hats!” Law scolded.

“Ah, Luffy?” Chopper winced.

“We are so sorry, Law,” Nami apologised.

Sanji grimaced. “Yeah, sorry about Luffy.”

“Kaido will be after Luffy and I-” Law said, and cursed when Luffy took off.

“Luffy, wait!” Nami yelled.

“I'll go after him!” Zoro shouted, already running off, but in the opposite direction.

The others tried to call him back, but he was already gone, and Law could feel a headache beginning to brew.

“Zoro-ya should be fine. He'll no doubt appear on the other side of Wano knowing him,” Law grumbled. “I'll go after Luffy-ya. Nobody knows the rest of you are here, so let's keep it that way.”

“Law, no, you'll get yourself killed-” Penguin's eyes widened.

“Kin'emon, your plan is still safe.” Law gritted his teeth. “Dammit, I wish I could just let that idiot go off on his own. Room!”

“Captain, you can't-” Shachi protested, even as Bepo reached out to grab him.

“Law!” Ikkaku yelled.

He ignored their pleads, and looked over each of his crew, memorising them, just in case.

Law couldn't promise anything after all.

This was an Emperor of the Seas.

“Shambles!”

.::.

Sanji cursed. Kaido was coming right for them. Nami went pale, her face full of fear, as did Chopper's and Carrot's.

“Run!” Ikkaku yelled, already tugging Bepo along, Penguin and Shachi on her heels.

Sanji grabbed Nami and dragged her away as well, but she was shaking hard and stumbling, absolutely terrified, and Carrot tripped as well. Sanji cursed, thinking frantically. He needed a spell. Any spell. What would save them from this?

He didn't have a shield potion strong enough to save them all from dragon's fire.

They were too late. Sanji could feel the heat on his back as Kaido blasted them all with a ball of fire.

.::.

Law stared in silent horror up at the ruins of Oden Castle. They had all... everyone had been up there... Bepo, Penguin, Shachi, Ikkaku... they were... they were gone...?

Something nagged at him though, something wasn't right, but he couldn't think what it was. He was missing something though, something important.

He got distracted by the sight of Luffy disappearing in a flash. A hot, red anger of haki almost blindly whacking Law as Luffy took off.

Luffy who punched Kaido from above with a murderous scream.

He actually... Luffy actually knocked Kaido out... it wouldn't last long, but Kaido was huge, he probably hadn't realised who did it... he also seemed to be a bit drunk too, considering how glazed his eyes were. They might actually have a chance to get away. Law just needed to get back to Luffy, who was gone again, and they could retreat back to the ruins and see if the others...

Law couldn't believe their crews were dead.

He just couldn't.

It would break him.

Law ran down into the village, searching the main street, only to spot Luffy standing over the horse woman who had taken the kid Luffy had been caring for away earlier. Why was she back here? She looked battered...

Fuck...

“Luffy, we need to go-” Law said desperately, but Luffy wasn't listening.

“He's got Tama...” Luffy's jaw tightened, and his fists were clenched so tightly that they were shaking. “We don't even know if Kin'emon's crew, or my crew, or yours are alive at the moment!”

Law gritted his teeth. “Luffy-”

“If I destroy him now, then it's all over!” Luffy rushed past him, much to Law's horror. “KAIDO! I'M RIGHT HERE!”

Law's stomach sank. Fuck... this wouldn't end well...

“Who are you...?” Kaido slurred.

He was still drunk... even after being knocked out by Luffy...

“I'm the man who will become the king of the pirates!” Luffy declared.

Kaido's eyes sharpened at that, and locked on to Luffy properly. “You-” he growled lowly. “So you finally came!”

Luffy didn't bother answering. He attacked, but Law realised that Luffy's attacks were only working because Kaido was that drunk at the moment. He wasn't thinking clearly. Dammit, if Sabo, Ace or Rouge ever found out about this, they would all wring Luffy's neck for his recklessness.

Well, maybe not Ace, hadn't Ace one point tried to challenge Kaido, only to find out Kaido hadn't even been here?

Law sighed. Rouge might just laugh in that case.

Sabo was literally the sane one in that family.

Law refused to count himself among them right now.

In the end Kaido ended up knocking Luffy out. Luffy who looked absolutely battered, much to Law's horror. At least now though he could teleport Luffy away without a struggle.

Law opened up a room, and was about to teleport Luffy out, when something sharp stabbed into his arm. He yelped, then gasped and collapsed to his knees, his energy suddenly drained. Law's eyes widened in realisation as his room disappeared.

Fuck. Seastone.

Hawkins rode over on that ridiculous deer thing along with some henchmen, his face grave.

“Don't do it, Trafalgar,” Hawkins said. “Surrender quietly.”

“You again,” Law hissed, shakily standing back up. “Not now.”

“The seastone prism used across the world originated from Wano,” Hawkins announced.

Law grabbed at his upper arm shakily, grimacing at the nail embedded in there.

“A seastone nail?” Law bristled.

“Only the Land of Wano has the artisans who refine it into something that small,” Hawkins explained, drawing his sword. “Straw sword!”

Law barely dodged the straw sword in time, and had to block another blow with Kikoku. He couldn't get to Luffy like this. Dammit. The seastone was draining him fast too. Law managed to knock the nail out with Kikoku, but he had ran out of time. He was already nearing exhaustion. Law opened up another room and reluctantly teleported himself away.

He mentally apologised to Luffy for abandoning him to Kaido.

Law had to drag himself out of town using Kikoku as a walking stick and deep into the forest. She wouldn't be too impressed about that, but Law didn't have much of a choice right now. The seastone and using his shambles had completely wiped him out again. Dammit, bloody seastone. He groaned and collapsed against a tree, resting Kikoku on his lap.

“I never heard of a seastone nail before,” Law scoffed, clutching his arm, it was still bleeding, thankfully sluggishly, but he'd need to clean it and wrap it up.

Law frowned. He needed to get back to the ruins. He had to check and see if the other were alive-

That was when it finally clicked.

He hadn't felt Sanji or Brook die.

He would have felt them die since they were all connected as head witches.

Law fought off the urge to scream.

If he had bloody well noticed that sooner-

No, Luffy still would have tried to beat up Kaido, but maybe he wouldn't have been as desperate to do so by that point.

Urgh, it was hard to say. Law was so damn tired at the moment. He needed to rest.

Chapter Text

The meeting room was silent, as Doflamingo had expected it to be. Kaido had been a mix of emotions, ranging from happy, to angry then upset, but Doflamingo managed to get him to finally focus. It took dangling a very nice treat in front of his face, but it would be the treat that would save Doflamingo and his crew from being destroyed.

Bringing Ceasar here had saved them from being murdered, but Doflamingo didn't fancy having any broken bones after the pummelling that Straw Hat brat gave him. He had recovered from those wounds thankfully now, but not all his crew had recovered from their injuries sadly.

Doflamingo needed to do what he could to protect them.

“Four witches are here in Wano...?” Kaido whispered, his eyes wide, staring at his sake bottle.

Doflamingo smirked. “You already knew about my witch. Law has certainly become quite the troublesome child, but as for the rest... well they are quite the interesting bunch.”

“Four witches?” Kaido repeated.

“Fufufufu, yes. Some of them I didn't know about until recently. I thought one was a dead clan, although it technically still is,” Doflamingo mused. “I'm not sure how that works to be honest.”

“Worororo, you've got me curious, Doflamingo,” Kaido admitted. “Who are these witches?”

Doflamingo smirked. He knew that would please Kaido. Yes, bringing back Caesar did help keep Kaido from beating him to death, but the witch knowledge was an added bonus. Kaido knew and admired the legends of Joy Boy after all, and the head witches were heavily involved in that, even if they didn't know that for themselves these days. Poor Law, if Rosinante hadn't kidnapped him all those years ago, Law would know so much more about himself, and about his clan. Rosinante certainly hadn't done Law any favours.

“My witch of course is from the Trafalgar Clan, the healers. Then there is Nico Robin, the clan who deals in death. The Vinsmokes, the empathy clan, after three hundred years, have finally regained their witch, who is now known to be Vinsmoke Sanji. Then lastly, we have Soul King Brook, from the Rose Clan, who deal in Illusions.”

They all either knew Straw Hat Luffy, or sailed with him.

Doflamingo didn't mention that last part though. He didn't know what reaction that would get from Kaido.

“The witches are beginning to unite,” Kaido mused. “At least some are. Portgas is still in Mariejois, as will Princess Vivi from the Nefetari Clan, the shapeshifters, be.”

“So the last ones missing are the Knowledge Clan, Foresight, Joy, Immortal, Love, but Boa will be hiding in her home as usual, and of course the Mind Reading Clan, whose line died out, although if they are anything like that skeleton...” Doflamingo said thoughtfully.

“How did you find out about the skeleton?”

Doflamingo grinned sharply. “He used his magic against Jora back in Dressrosa. It was hard to tell at first, but she realised it after giving it some thought, he uses his sword and music to create illusions. A skill that is not apart of his devil fruit. Nobody would have recognised it after all these years he's been missing in action, so it made sense that it took Jora a fair bit to catch on.”

“Worororo, four witches in one place? Interesting. I suppose you want your witch back?” Kaido asked.

“I would appreciate it.”

“Worororo, then I'll happily keep the rest!”

.::.

Law frowned. There was a crowd of them on a beach, one Law didn't recognise. There were lots of people, but many of them were shadows, some of giants, of mermaids in the ocean waves, of so many people that it was almost overwhelming.

But the one who caught Law's eye was the glowing white man staring up at the sky full of stars racing across the blackened night.

“Joy Boy!” Ann called out, waving to the glowing white figure. “Hey, come see the falling stars with us!”

“Falling stars? Count me in!”

Levi huffed. “Ann, you realise we can make stars fall too, right? It's a spell. A powerful one too-”

“Yeah but that kills people and this is just pretty!” Ann beamed.

“I love all those spells you can do.” Law could feel Joy Boy's grin, bright and cheerful. “It's amazing. I wish I could do that.”

“You bring the sound of freedom instead,” Ann said, smiling warmly.

“Or destruction,” Levi grumbled.

“I'm sorry I broke your favourite vase,” Joy Boy began, holding up his hands.

“It was more than that and you know it!” Levi bristled. “That 'vase' was a potion I had been brewing for months. Those ingredients are rare-”

“Traffy, please forgive me-”

“I'll kick your ass!”

Ann laughed. “Well we can't have a party without a fight first I suppose! Sora, can you hold off the food for a bit? Levi and Joy Boy are going to fight! Nico, let's join in!”

“I prefer to watch,” Nico huffed, burying his nose back in his book.

“Oi, don't you two start fighting! I just finished cooking dinner!” Sora protested.

Levi scowled. “You're lucky my favourite food is here, otherwise I'd have chopped your head off and thrown it.”

“But then I couldn't eat any of Sora's food!” Joy Boy pouted.

“Exactly.”

“Trafalgar Law! I am going to kill you!”

Ikkaku. Ikkaku was here. Law managed to force open his eyes when her hands grabbed his arm, already shoving up the sleeve. He winced, even as she began roughly cleaning his wound.

“Ikkaku, take it easy on him, he looks rough,” Shachi pleaded.

“Good! Maybe that will knock some of the stupidity out of him!” Ikkaku's eyes narrowed when she noticed he was awake, and Law winced when she twisted his ear. “You hear me, Law? You ever give me a heart attack like that again and I'll drown you!”

“Ikkaku-chan is so cute when she's angry!” Sanji gushed.

Bepo, Penguin, Shachi, Ikkaku and Sanji all stood before him, Ikkaku kneeling beside him, while Penguin paced in front of them. Sanji had his arms crossed, leaning against a tree, while Shachi and Bepo remained close by Law's and Ikkaku's sides

Law felt a lot of tension seep out of his shoulders at the sight of his crew. It might not be all of them, but still, it was a relief to know some of them were okay.

“Are you all okay?” Law asked quietly. “Kaido attacked you all.”

Penguin nodded. “We're fine-”

“Shinobu saved us,” Ikkaku growled lowly, and Law grimaced when the bandage was wrapped a bit too tight around his arm.

“Ikkaku, you're going to break his arm!” Shachi protested, raising his hands up. “Please, I know you don't like her, but Shinobu did save us.”

“She's a nasty bitch and I'll gut her one day if she keeps being rude to my crew,” Ikkaku hissed, but thankfully adjusted the bandage so that it stopped trying to strangle his arm. “What happened, Law?”

“I take it you couldn't catch up to our idiot captain?” Sanji sighed.

“I did, but unfortunately when he saw Kaido aim that blast bomb at all of you he attacked. I couldn't stop him in time, and he and Kaido fought.” Law grimaced. “It didn't last long either. Kaido was drunk, so Luffy got a few hits in, but then Kaido knocked him out. I tried to teleport Luffy-ya out, but Hawkins attacked me. He hit me with seastone nails.”

“Nails?” Sanji startled.

“Apparently the craftsmen of Wano can refine them into delicate objects, like nails unfortunately. He lodged it into my arm and I immediately started losing all my strength. I only just managed to escape capture,” Law sighed. “I passed out here in the forest afterwards.”

“We'll need to watch out for that in case they use it against any of the other devil fruit users,” Sanji said, grimacing. “Robin-chan could be in danger.”

“Agreed.” Law ran a hand over his face as he stood up. “Cook-ya, Ikkaku and I also found some kind of meeting room with pedestals in it in a temple.”

Sanji tilted his head curiously. “Alright...?”

“Each pedestal held our names,” Law continued. “Robin's was covered in flowers, thanking her for some kind of sacrifice her ancestor made. I don't know if you want to go in and see if you can spot anything I missed that might help us.”

Sanji frowned thoughtfully. “What in the world is a meeting room for the witch heads doing in Wano?”

Law sighed. “I wish I knew.”

“It's frustrating that there are so many mysteries behind our ancestors. Not even the more recent ones know what happened to us,” Sanji grumbled. “We should look into this meeting room, but I also don't want it to interfere with Kinemon's plan. He's relying on us.”

“Agreed. We could try see it after the battle, as long as we all survive it.”

“Law, that's so grim,” Shachi whined.

“You should always expect casualties in a war, Shachi. The fields will be splattered red-”

“Captain!” Shachi cried. “Stop it! You're freaking me out!”

Law chuckled, but returned his attention to Sanji. “After the battle we'll grab Nico-ya and Bone-ya and go investigate this meeting room properly.”

“Sounds like a plan.”

.::.

Law forgot that while Sanji was usually one of the reasonable ones out of the Straw Hats, that reasonable thinking always went out the door in regards to women.

There was a crowd of women queuing up for his soba.

None of these women were warriors though. Law could already tell as he wandered along the road, with Penguin by his side. Penguin who suddenly went still.

“Ikkaku is in the queue,” Penguin sighed heavily.

“Maybe she'll get a free lunch,” Law grumbled, but frowned curiously.

He swore he recognised one of the women in the line, but where from?

“Law?”

Law tipped his head. “See the woman with the brown hair, blue eyes and freckles? Do you recognise her?”

Penguin's brow furrowed. “She rings a bell, but I'm not sure where from... Ikkaku's looking at her too, but she doesn't seem sure either...”

Law hated that. Where was she from? Was she a spy, and if so, whose spy? Law had seen so many different people during his time as a pirate. She could easily be a Marine spy, or an Animal Pirate spy, even a ninja Kin'emon told them about in passing?

They kept watching, just in case, but the woman got a bowl of Sanji's soba and gushed over it as the others did. She left too, chattering away to some other women about how good the food was, just as Ikkaku got her bowl, along with two others she paid for, and she brought it to them where they hid in the shadows of the buildings.

“You saw her too, right?” Ikkaku asked, pressing the bowls into their hands.

Penguin already began munching. “Yeah, but we can't think where we know her from.”

Ikkaku grimaced. “That's a pain, because I can't too, but she is nagging the back of my head somewhere.”

“If we see her again then we should be concerned, but for now let's concentrate on gathering allies for the fight ahead,” Penguin said.

Law frowned thoughtfully. “Uni is keeping an eye out, but getting information from him is difficult at the moment.”

“I can't believe he got a job in the palace,” Penguin snorted. “Insane.”

“He's certainly being risky,” Ikkaku murmured. “I hope he's alright.”

“Jean Bart's still guarding the Polar Tang with the others,” Penguin said. “It's only a handful of us out here, so at least that means we've only got to really worry about them.”

Law grimaced. Penguin, Shachi, Bepo, Ikkaku, Uni and Hakugan were all the ones who were currently travelling through Wano at the moment. He hoped they could all remain safe, but with the rumours of the Donquixote Pirates being around, and their alliance going against the Beast Pirates...

He had such a bad feeling about all of this.

Chapter Text

“I can't believe Sangoro is Stealth Black, he was always my favourite!” Ikkaku giggled, even as they ran down the street. “Don't tell him that though, Sanji will explode into hearts!”

“You two know way too much about Germa 66!” Usopp groaned.

“It was a huge comic series in the newspapers back in North Blue,” Ikkaku said. “All of us in the Heart Pirates would read them weekly.”

“I was a Sora fan,” Law grumbled.

“The villains are always the best!” Ikkaku insisted. “They get to do the cool stuff.”

“Going invisible is not that cool.”

“Are you two really arguing over a comic book?” Usopp's jaw dropped. “Now of all times?”

He pointed at the destruction of Sanji's- or well Soba Mask, and Ikkaku hated that name- and that Page One guy were causing in town.

“It's for a totally legit reason!” Ikkaku protested.

“Let's just get out of here,” Law said.

Ikkaku stuck out her tongue. “You just want to end the argument because I'm right, silly Captain!”

“I am not above opening a room right here and now and sticking you in some random person's body.” Law scowled.

“You'd know I'd find that funny.”

“What is wrong with you people?” Usopp cried.

“You should put me in Page One.” Ikkaku grinned. “I'd be a powerful dinosaur!”

“That would be pretty cool,” Franky admitted.

“Law-” Ikkaku beamed.

“No!”

“But it would just be for a bit of fun...” Ikkaku whined, the smile wiped off her face. “How could you give me that idea and then not do it? It's such a tease!”

“You're the one who came up with that idea,” Law huffed. “You also wouldn't even know how the properly use his abilities in the first place!”

“I could learn!”

“Wouldn't you miss your own body?” Usopp asked.

“Eh, Law could just stick my bits and bobs back on the new body.”

“IKKAKU!” Franky and Usopp both wailed.

“You're only encouraging her,” Law sighed. “But I mean it, we need to leave.”

“But what about Sangoro?” Usopp asked.

“He told us to go on ahead, remember?”

“He'll probably turn invisible again to retreat,” Ikkaku said. “Just like Stealth Black would.”

.::.

Law was thankful that they managed to retreat successfully, even if they didn't know where exactly the others were yet. The Oiran had been murdered last night at Orochi's feast, and they didn't know if Robin's team made it out successfully. Eustass-ya was also around, having escaped imprisonment. Law grimaced at the thought.

This war was getting more and more chaotic, and Law didn't even know if Doflamingo was actually here. The rumours were rather thin spread, everyone was too busy talking about the Oiran's death.

Law, Penguin, Shachi, Bepo and Ikkaku had all split off again this morning too. They were wandering around town, looking out for those with a crescent moon on their ankles. Ikkaku stuck nearby, which was getting a bit frustrating, but he had a feeling Penguin had ordered her to watch his back while they were in Wano.

She wasn't even trying to hide that she was following him around. Ikkaku had bought him herbal tea earlier, along with rice balls for lunch and handed them to him with that cheeky grin of hers. He had rolled his eyes, but accepted the food.

“Captain,” a familiar voice whispered behind him, and Law automatically relaxed when Uni's hand landed on his shoulder.

Ikkaku concealed her dagger again.

“Are you alright?” Law asked, glancing back over his shoulder.

“I'm fine, but I came here to warn you personally,” Uni said. “They are about to put out more wanted posters-”

Law grimaced. “Of Soba Mask?”

“Of Vinsmoke Sanji, Nico Robin, Rose Brook and Trafalgar Law,” Uni said gravely.

Law paled. “All the witches?”

“Shit,” Ikkaku cursed.

Uni nodded. “They know you are all here, or at least guessed it with Brook.”

“Probably when he was running around as a ghost terrorising people during the banquet.” Those had been quite the amusing rumours spreading about the castle being haunted, but now perhaps it wasn't such a good thing. “Dammit.”

“You have to get out of here,” Uni insisted. “They were distributing the posters when I slipped out. I can't risk going back either now, not when I left without notice.”

“I'll grab the others,” Ikkaku said. “Uni, Law, get out of here.”

Law grimaced. He didn't like the idea of one of them wandering off alone in town, but Ikkaku was right. They needed to get out of here fast.

“We'll see you soon,” Law said.

Ikkaku nodded, and headed off at a brisk walk. Law and Uni took off in the opposite direction, walking quickly through the back streets.

“I still don't know what happened to Nico-ya, Nami-ya and Bone-ya after the banquet,” Law admitted.

“They all escaped,” Uni reassured. “I-”

They heard screaming, and the pair of them cautiously peered out from behind the shadows of the building. Law's frown deepened. The guards had grabbed two men, pinning them down, and holding their ankles up-

The reversed crescent moon.

Law's stomach dropped.

Somebody had ratted out their plans.

They got back to Ebisu Town safely, but the moment Law stepped inside their borrowed house Shinobu was bristling at him, and they fell quickly into an argument when he was told that Bepo, Penguin and Shachi had been captured, and that he was not allowed to rescue them.

“Stop it you two!” Sanji said. “We're comrades, arguing will not resolve anything. Law, we're just worried that this is a trap to lure you in. Uni said there are now wanted posters of all the witches, right? We're being targetted.”

“I'll be careful about rescuing them, but I have to save them,” Law insisted. “They are my crew.”

“Are you out of your mind? That would be like turning yourself in!” Shinobu scolded.

Law gritted his teeth, and he could see Uni gripping his pole arm tightly, his eyes cold beneath locks of his hair.

“Our allies who want to take down Orochi and Kaido are getting captured one after another.” Shinobu glared dagger at Law. “Ever since your crew messed up!”

“Excuse me?” Uni growled lowly.

“What do you mean by that?” Law snarled.

“That little bear and his friends definitely told them about our plans!” Shinobu snarled.

“At least learn the names of your bloody allies.” Law bristled. “Bepo, Penguin and Shachi would die before they talked. Don't insult my crew!”

He turned around and marched for the door, Uni on his heels.

“Law, wait, this is what the enemy wants!” Sanji protested.

“Don't tell me what to do, Black leg-ya!” Law snapped.

“Are you trying to run?” Shinobu growled lowly. “You must eliminate those who got captured to silence them.”

“That's scary, Shinobu!” Usopp cried.

Law felt his face darken and he turned on his heel. “What did you just say?”

But that was when a dagger tore right through the door and sliced across Shinobu's cheek, planting into the wall behind her. The door slammed open afterwards, Ikkaku's face murderous as she walked in, but her walk remained surprisingly casual, there was no anger in it, and that threw Law off the most.

“Repeat that,” Ikkaku ordered, her voice full of fury. “I dare you. Say that again.”

“That's the way we do things in the ninja world!” Shinobu yelled back, tears gathering in her eyes. “This isn't a game-”

“MY FRIEND'S LIVES AREN'T A GAME EITHER! YOU WOULDN'T ASK THE STRAW HATS TO DO SUCH A THING, SO DON'T FUCK WITH MY CREW!” Ikkaku roared, punching her in the face, tossing her to the floor. “I don't give a damn about your tears. I wasn't for this alliance in the first place, I thought it wouldn't end well. The Straw Hats proved me wrong in Dressrosa in a round about way, but here and now? Right now I hate your guts.”

Sanji whined. “Ikkaku-chan...”

“T-That's a bit harsh, Ikkaku!” Nami protested. “We never said anything against Bepo, Penguin or Shachi. I wouldn't blame them for talking though. I wouldn't last three seconds being tortured.”

Law clamped a heavy hand on Ikkaku's shoulder, but he didn't pull her back, he glared daggers at everyone in the room. “Don't forget you are suspecting my crew. I didn't miss that you didn't deny that you wouldn't ask the Straw Hats to do what you would of me. How can people who don't trust each other expect to fight in a deadly battle together?”

“Traffy, wait!” Usopp pleaded.

Law ignored them all and marched off, Uni and Ikkaku right on his heels.

They were going to get their crew mates back.

.::.

Ikkaku punched a brick wall on the way out of town, much to Law's bemusement, considering she broke her hand doing it. He sighed and grabbed a hold of her wrist, running his healing magic over her knuckles and fingers first.

“Those bloody assholes!” Ikkaku seethed. “That ninja cow would never have dreamed of telling Straw Hat to do that. She would have offered to save any of his crew and wouldn't doubt them for a second, but we do so much work, some of us even infiltrating the palace-” She gestured at Uni. “And what do we get?” She laughed bitterly, and Law frowned when she took a hold of his hand, the one healing her. “You, and this crew, were the best things to ever happen to me, Law. You're my Captain. Uni, Bepo, Shachi, Penguin, everyone on the Polar Tang is my crew. You're all I've got. So nobody, and I mean nobody, gets to cast you all aside.”

Law couldn't help but see Rouge in her at that moment. Of course that would also mean Shinobu would have been dead right now. Rouge would not have let that insult pass in a heart beat. Shinobu's head would have been cut right off, regardless of the chaos it would cause among their allies.

It would have been horrifyingly amusing to see it all unfold.

But this was a serious situation, and there was no time to daydream.

Rouge wasn't here.

If she was, things probably would be a lot different, but she was hopefully getting Ace back from Mariejois.

“We're going to get them back, Ikkaku,” Law said firmly.

“Then afterwards?” Uni frowned. “They don't deserve our help.”

Law sighed. “Some perhaps do not, but we're not about to abandon our alliance now regardless of that. We are pirates of the seas, when we make alliances, we do not swear upon them lightly.”

Ikkaku grumbled. “I guess the seas would complain and give us a rubbish sailing.”

“I like the Straw Hats for taking out Doflamingo and helping you, Captain,” Uni said. “They will forever hold my gratitude for that, but I don't respect them since they don't respect us.”

“Uni-” Law frowned.

“They would never have allowed one of their own to remain imprisoned, and they wouldn't have allowed Shinobu to say any negative about their comrade either,” Uni insisted.

“Luffy is in prison-” Law began.

“He's apart of the plan,” Uni said. “He'll be broken out along with all the other warriors in that prison, but those being rounded up now in the capital? They don't stand a chance at escape, not unless we want an all out war then and there, our crew will be saved until last, and I refuse to let that stand. They'll be getting tortured for their silence right now when already our allies doubt them. That's cruel!”

“We're getting them out,” Law said firmly. “But we still need to be careful. We need something to draw the guards' attention. To keep them distracted while we get the others out.”

“Then let's go see what we can do,” Ikkaku said. “We're Heart Pirates. We don't let go of each other.”

“Not for a second,” Uni agreed.

Law couldn't help but smile fondly at that. These idiots... how did he find these amazing people?

.::.

Zoro and Sanji saved the girl at the execution grounds. Thank the seas for that. Ikkaku had been lining up a throwing dagger to plunge into Orochi's head, but she wasn't fast enough. He had fired off his gun before she could even throw it. She hadn't expected the asshole to go after a child. Law yanked her hand back down out of sight, back into the shadows of the building they were hiding behind close to the prison block.

They were so close to Penguin, Shachi and Bepo. They couldn't blow it now.

Law had a room already opened up, and in a blink of an eye Penguin, Shachi and Bepo were teleported out, replacing the three rocks. Uni, Ikkaku and Law immediately braced them. They were trembling, their body covered in blood and bruises.

“Dammit, are you three going to be okay?” Ikkaku hissed.

Law quickly got to treating their injuries, but Ikkaku startled when she heard Robin scream. Ikkaku flinched hard, and spun round, and gasped at the sight of a black leather clad man holding Robin up off the ground by her neck. There was a dark purple glow seeping out of her and into the man's hand, even as she struggled, and Ikkaku heard Law's breath hitch.

“He's stealing her magical energy,” Law whispered, eyes wide.

“ROBIN!” Nami screamed.

“Robin-chan!” Sanji yelled.

Uni paled. “T-That's King...”

Franky and Usopp attacked King, but they stood no chance either. He cut them down without mercy, tearing right through them, and looked straight at Brook, who shoved the woman next to him behind him, his face grave. Robin's struggles stopped and she went limp in King's hand, her eyes fluttering shut as she lost consciousness. The flames on his back burned brighter, with a hint of dark purple now glowing within them.

“Franky! Usopp!” Nami cried.

“I have no time for you pathetic lot,” King said, his eyes on Brook, then going to Sanji. “I have witches to hunt.”

Ikkaku realised the only reason Franky and Usopp were alive now was because they had a white glow around them. Law was healing them, but would that honestly keep them alive? King tore literally through them with that sword of his.

King's eyes landed on the shadows of the building they were hiding in, and Ikkaku felt her skin crawl.

“L-Law...” Uni breathed out.

“Grab Penguin, Ikkaku get Shachi up-” Law ordered, his voice nervous, but Ikkaku couldn't move.

She was frozen in fear, just as Nami was in the execution ground. Nami was shaking hard as King walked past her, heading for Brook. She raised her staff, her hands trembling, though eyes determined, but Brook shook his head.

“Stay out of this, Nami!” he yelled. “Otherwise you'll die!”

Ikkaku flinched, as Nami paled and stumbled back. She had never heard Brook yell before.

“Oi, get away from them!” Zoro shouted, but he had to block off Kyoshiro's attack.

“Now, now, you aren't finished with our fight already, are you?” Kyoshiro mocked. “You're the one who attacked Lord Orochi.”

“I don't have time for you!” Zoro snarled.

“You shouldn't have started this fight then, and looks like the tide has already turned.”

The ninjas were now here too. Ikkaku fought off the fear, even if her arms and legs felt heavy, and lifted Shachi up. “Law, we've got to go,” she said shakily, desperate, terrified.

This was bad.

This was so bad.

“I'll teleport you all away, then get Nico-ya, Long Nose-ya and Cyborg-ya out,” Law said, opening up a room over the entire execution area and prison. “I don't know who or what King is, but he's after the witches-”

“Fufufufu.” Ikkaku's blood ran cold. “He's a Lunarian, and they are born witch hunters.”

Ikkaku couldn't move. Law was struggling, trying to move his hand, but Ikkaku knew that the strings must have caught him too, and his room unfortunately died off, collapsing back into him. Doflamingo stood behind them on the other side of the alley they had hidden in, smirking as he leaned against the wall of the prison.

“Dammit, Doflamingo!” Law snarled. “So the rumours were true. You really were here.”

Doflamingo chuckled. “As soon as I heard that your men were spreading out in Wano I decided to hunker down and let my own people keep an eye out. Russian has been keeping an eye on you all for quite a while now.”

Ikkaku frowned. Russian? She recognised that name...

Law cursed. “Senor Pink's wife...”

Ikkaku grimaced. That was who the brunette they saw was at Sanji's soba booth. Russian had been there spying on them all.

They just hadn't realised whose spy she had been in time. It had allowed the Donquixote Pirates to hide from them so that they wouldn't see Doflamingo coming. Russian was a civilian, she had never been in a fight before according to their information, so they hadn't been too worried about her. They never saw her coming.

“You should be happy I've got you, Law,” Doflamingo chuckled. “Lunarian's feed on witch's magical energy. It makes them stronger. It's why they hunted witches down so fiercely. They normally just eat off of nature witches, but with so many clan ones here? Fufufufufufu! It's like a feast to him!”

“E-Eat?” Ikkaku breathed out, horrified, trying to glance over at Robin.

Was she still breathing?

“Fufufufufu, not their actual bodies thankfully. They would never want a witch to die, otherwise they'd never get to eat again. They feed on their magic, then once a witch regains their magical energy, they can eat it all over again.” Doflamingo smirked, then raised his hand, and Ikkaku saw strings flash into the sunlight, over her head, and heard Sanji curse. “We want to borrow all you head witches for a bit. So you will all be coming with us.”

Sanji screamed next, and Ikkaku felt her stomach churn.

The Straw Hats were being taken out too...

King, Doflamingo, the ninjas and all the guards... they couldn't handle them all for long... Ikkaku gritted her teeth... dammit. This was going horribly wrong-

A sword strike swept right by Ikkaku's face, tearing through Doflamingo's shoulder, and Ikkaku could move again. She tried to grab for her seastone dagger-

“Traffy!” Zoro yelled. “Get everyone out!”

Ikkaku gasped. Zoro had been the one to free them. Law raised his hand, another room opening up.

“Shambles!”

Ikkaku blinked, and one second she had been in the Flower Capital, and now she was in the outskirts, closer towards the Kuri area. Bepo, Penguin, Shachi and Uni were with her. Robin appeared seconds later with Brook and Usopp, but nobody else did.

Ikkaku's stomach sank.

Was Law safe?

Chapter Text

Buggy felt the blood drain from his face as a Magic Circle appeared right in the middle of Buggy's Delivery base. His men of course looked just as confused, and then tried to be aggressive, but Buggy's hands shook when he saw two God Knights step out of the Magic Circle.

The man looked exactly like Shanks.

“What the heck...?” Cabaji whispered, leaning over the railings of the upper floor where Buggy and his top ranking crew worked. “That looks like Red Haired Shanks...”

“But he's not acting like Shanks,” Mohiji said.

Galdino yelped. “G-God's Knights! What are they doing here?”

“God's Knights?” Alvida hissed. “We need to get out of here!”

“How dare you sneak in here, you rats?” one of his crew crowed. “Don't you know where you are?”

“Scum like you don't get to disturb the boss,” another laughed.

Buggy didn't get a chance to say a word, not that he could, there was a lump in his throat, silencing him, as his stomach rolled. Dread sinking heavy into his bones. The Shanks copy looked at the young woman beside him, and nodded, and she attacked instantly, painting the main hall red.

Hundreds of men slaughtered in seconds.

Buggy swallowed back a yelp when the Shanks lookalike disappeared, and then reappeared beside Buggy on the railings, kneeling on them.

He was fast.

Faster than Shanks.

That sent a cold chill down his spine.

“I think we both know why I'm here,” Shanks lookalike said, staring down at him, and it was unnerving to see Shank's eyes staring at him, with no warmth or amusement in them, or at least a drunken stupor.

He could feel Mohji's and Cabaji's absolute panic and terror. Alvida and Galdino were already fleeing, while Richie whimpered, cowering behind Mohji's heels.

“B-Buggy-” Cabaji breathed out.

“Leave,” Buggy ordered.

He hadn't taken his eyes off the God Knight. Buggy couldn't. One wrong move and his crew were dead.

“B-But-”

“Leave,” Buggy said firmly.

“You heard him,” the God Knight said. “Go. I'm only here to see your Captain.”

They were reluctant, but finally Cabaji, Mohji and Richie left. He watched out for their hakis, and they went straight for the teleporting crystals Buggy had set up years ago. The magic instantly teleported them all out, much to his relief. They at least would be safe. The upper floor only had Buggy and the God Knight left on it, while the female God Knight continued to tear through his screaming men.

He wasn't going to unhear their cries of pain and desperation for years, if he ever did.

“Imu-sama is waiting for you, Kimura Buggy.”

The name 'Imu' made a wave of warmth and comfort go through him, but 'Kimura' left a cold dread down his spine. Buggy grimaced. So they really did know who he was then. He had kept that part of his name hidden for many years. Kimura was the family name of the Knowledge Clan, and Buggy had only told a very small amount of people that name specifically.

Buggy shivered. “So he sent you for me then? Why now?”

“The Warlord system has been abolished. Your protection is gone now,” the God Knight explained.

“Abolished?” Buggy frowned. “Reverie?”

“Indeed. The vote was cast and not in your favour. The other Warlords are being hunted now. We however were sent to bring you in personally, since no one knows about your status as a head witch. The marines will be bringing in Boa Hancock. They know not to cause her any harm.”

“Sounds about right,” Buggy muttered. “When did you figure it out?”

The God Knight surprisingly softened. “It's not been a long time. You hid from us well. Imu-sama only found out when you became a Warlord.”

Buggy's blood ran cold. So being a Warlord hadn't been the protection Buggy had hoped it would have been. He had wanted to use that title to slip under the radar by remaining so close to the Marines that no one would suspect him. He had also wanted to see what their information was on the Sanctuary's, but unfortunately they didn't have much regarding those either.

Buggy had fucked up.

“But by that point the World Government had already made a deal with you, so he was satisfied that you were in the same position as Hancock. An ally. But now that alliance is over, and you are to be brought to him now.” The Shanks lookalike held out his hand. “Come along quietly. We both know you aren't able to escape us.”

Buggy's heart hammered in his chest, and he swallowed thickly. “You really do look like Shanks,” he said uneasily.

“I know.” He nodded. “I however am Figarland Shamrock.”

Buggy shakily raised his hand in the direction of Shamrock's. “I've never been particularly strong,” Buggy admitted. “In fact I am usually just very lucky, in strange, roundabout ways.”

Shamrock raised a brow curiously.

“But it looks like that luck has finally ran out...”

“You have no need to fear,” Shamrock reassured. “Imu-sama has no desire to harm you.”

“Who is Imu?” Buggy asked warily.

Shamrock smiled, clearly amused. “I guess even the Knowledge Clan doesn't know everything.”

“No, we unfortunately don't,” Buggy said. “But we do know a lot of spells, and not all of them need to be spoken aloud.”

Shamrock moved, lunging for his arm, but Buggy managed to teleport away just in time, his magic swallowing him up. He was spat out roughly on a familiar floor, the crystal on the desk glowing with Buggy's magic, as Buggy collapsed on to his back, panting and wheezing, his magic drained heavily.

By the Seas, how far away had Shanks' ship been to tire Buggy out this much?

He flinched when Shank's bedroom door was slammed open, Shanks' eyes wide as he threw himself to the floor beside Buggy. Benn Beckman was in the doorway, staring wide eyed at them, while Buggy shakily sat up.

“What happened?” Shanks asked, his face hardening. “Did they figure out that you're a witch? I'll kill them-”

“Calm it,” Buggy grunted. “I think my delivery service might be dead and gone already.” He eyed Shanks, whose brow furrowed. “A Magic Circle appeared in the middle of it, and two God Knights emerged from it.”

Shanks' eyes widened.

“One of them looked exactly like you.”

“Shit...”

“Yeah that is a good word to describe it,” Buggy huffed.

Shanks held up his hand. “I didn't think he'd come after you.”

“It was so weird seeing your face not actually in a drunken stupor.”

“Rude!” Shanks pouted, but then the pout went away and Shanks face grew more serious, his frown heavy. “Are you okay?”

“I'm fine, just drained of my magic,” Buggy said. “They were going to take me away to an...” Buggy's brow furrowed. “Huh... I can't say it...”

“Ace had that problem too,” Shanks murmured.

Buggy scowled. “I just assumed Ace was under a spell, but if none of the witches can say his name... fuck, did... Ace was calling him shadow man right? Did shadow man put a spell on our grimoires instead?”

Shanks' frown deepened.

Buggy sighed. “I was wary before after everything Rouge said, but the fact two God Knights used a Magic Circle to get into my base and kidnap me without so much as a warning was terrifying.”

Shanks scowled. “You're staying on my ship.”

“Don't just tell me what to do, you flashy bastard.”

“No arguing, Buggy, you're in danger.” Shanks crossed his arms. “I wouldn't have known you were captured until you missed our usual catch up call, and by that time you would have been locked up in Mariejois.”

“I've got to go find my sanctuary,” Buggy insisted. “It was said it has all the knowledge of the world, if I can find it I might be able to discover who or what this shadow man is.”

“You've been looking for it for years without any luck,” Shanks protested. “It's in none of the Blues, nor is it in Paradise.”

“Why do you think I came all the way out here?” Buggy huffed.

“Buggy, it could be in the skies or under the ocean for all we know,” Shanks said. “The last known sanctuary was in Ohara and it got destroyed during the Buster Call. Nobody else knows where their ones are anymore.”

“Rouge found the Portgas one,” Buggy revealed.

“What?” Shanks frowned.

“It was on Sphinx,” Buggy said. “She contacted me about it yesterday during our catch up call.”

Shanks' frown deepened, but Buggy could tell he was getting through to him. He had such a thoughtful look in his eyes.

“Fine!” Shanks scowled at him. “But you aren't seeking out your sanctuary alone. I refuse to let you when you have God Knights chasing after you. We'll be looking for it together.”

“Shanks-”

“Nope, besides I'm the elder brother out of us two, so you listen to me.” Shanks stuck out his tongue.

“That is not how this works!” Buggy bristled.

“It is when you're on my ship.” Shanks grinned.

Buggy glowered. “Ass.”

Shanks cackled.

.::.

Hawkins was not entirely pleased with the situation at hand. Most of the Straw Hats had gotten away because of Trafalgar Law. He had teleported his entire crew to safety, along with four Straw Hats, before he had been recaptured by Doflamingo, and had all his magical energy fed on by King.

Two of those Straw Hats had been witches...

But Doflamingo at least didn't seem to mind too much, nor did King.

The Beast Pirates had taken over the temple where the witches had built their meeting room. It was old and dusty, but King had ordered some of their men to clean it up. Now two of the witches were sitting on the floor, leaning against their podiums, their hands chained above their heads to the blocks.

Neither Law or Sanji had woken up yet. Both remained slumped in place, out cold. King cut both their arms and used their blood to scribble symbols on the ground, but Hawkins didn't know what any of those symbols meant.

He wished they could interrogate their captives, but apparently the witches had a more important job to do than be tortured for information.

.::.

“I saw you kill that dragon. Nice job.”

Ryuma startled, then yelped as a fruit basket was thrown into his arms from the trees above him. He flushed, staring up at Vinsmoke Sora who laughed and waved cheerfully at him.

“Hello,” Sora greeted him warmly.

“Where you just watching all that time?” Ryuma complained, but began to munch on the fruit. “Thank you for the food,” he added, smiling at her grin.

“Yeah, it was an amazing fight. Joy Boy would be impressed.”

Ryuma raised a brow. “Ain't he dead or something?”

Sora pouted. “He'll come back!”

“You seem awfully sure.”

“Maybe not today or tomorrow, but many years from now I feel like he'll come back again,” Sora admitted, jumping down from the tree. “Maybe even our own descendants will meet him! They could be friends.”

Ryuma rolled his eyes. “I doubt it.”

“Always so pessimistic,” Sora teased.

Ryuma munched his way through the fruit basket. “I owe you one, Sora.”

Sora laughed. “You owe me more than that! Jeez, I always have to feed you. You need to manage your money better, Ryuma.” Sora went quiet slowly, then frowned. “I hope our descendants meet, even just one time.”

“Sora?” Ryuma frowned, puzzled.

“The foresight witch showed me a future of my descendents...” Sora bit her lip. “They'll be burned alive at a pyre-”

Ryuma froze, then snarled and grabbed Sora's shoulders, shaking her firmly. “Who?!”

Sora's face darkened.

“Who did it to them? Tell me, Sora-”

“And what will you do about it?” Sora asked sharply.

“I'll kill them before they get a chance! That'll stop it, right?”

“Then you'll need to kill me right now,” Sora said coldly, jerking her chin up.

“What?” Ryuma startled.

“My own descendants did it. They set our witch head and heir to the flames,” Sora said, her voice still ice. “And it's going to take a long time for a Vinsmoke witch to ever come back, but I know he'll be there for Joy Boy. He'll one day be the light of my family. I have full faith in him.”

Sanji had no idea who Joy Boy was, but the name felt odd to him... it felt funny, fluttery even, but not in a sick way, more like an odd type of joy. Sanji couldn't describe it. All that he knew when he woke up was that he was chained to a podium of some kind, and Law was the same across from him, still unconscious. There were thirteen podiums in the room, each with their clan name on it, and Sanji grimaced.

This was supposed to be what they investigated after the battle.

Sanji winced when he tried to shift, realising his arm was aching, and frowned when he saw that his upper arm had been bandaged. Immediately Sanji saw the dried blood on the ground, all shaped into runes, ready to cast a spell. The blood was written up over the podiums too, but Sanji couldn't see what the top of them from his place on the floor.

Sanji did not recognise that spell. Not entirely anyway. Some parts of it looked like it was for seeking out and locating, but it was too large, and there were runes that he did not recognise woven into the spell.

Sanji did not like this at all. Law had a bandage on his arm too.

It was only them from what he could see. He checked again with his observation haki, and noted nobody else was in the room either.

“Traffy, wake up!” Sanji called out.

Law stirred, groaning softly, before stiffening up, but he instantly sighed and forced himself to relax, slumping back against his podium. “Seastone...” he grumbled. “And I can't access my magic after King ate it all.”

“Ate it?” Sanji startled.

But yeah, when the leather guy had grabbed him- when Sanji had been trapped in Doflamingo's damn string- it had felt like all his magic had been drained away. Sanji hadn't been able to remain conscious after that. He had passed out.

“Apparently his people, Lunarians, eat magic,” Law explained. “We might have been captured to be fed on for the rest of our lives in that case. I wonder if we'll be caged like poultry.”

“That's horrifying, Law!” Sanji scowled. “I don't see Robin-chan or Brook. They alright?”

“I managed to teleport them out after Zoro-ya freed me from Doflamingo's strings, but he quickly caught me again and then King drained me of all my magic,” Law said. “I don't know who else got out. My crew, Robin, Brook, Usopp and Franky should be safe-”

“What about Nami?”

“I don't know. I couldn't get to her or Zoro in time, nor the others with them.”

Sanji nodded. He knew who Law meant by the others. Shinobu and Kanjuro. Law probably didn't know about poor Otoko. Sanji hoped she was safe. He trusted the mosshead to get her out.

“Should have saved Nami-” Sanji complained anyway.

“I prioritised the injured and unconscious,” Law huffed, shifting against the cuffs. “Are you able to get loose?”

“I might be able to smash the podium with a kick,” Sanji said, twisting against the chains, raising his leg, but something halted him.

He didn't know why he hesitated, his legs were free, he could kick the podium to pieces, but he didn't want to break it.

“Can't break it?” Law asked, brow furrowed.

Sanji scowled as he lowered his leg. “Stupid witchy feelings...”

“This is problematic. I don't know what they want from us, but it can't be any good,” Law said, his eyes narrowing on the floor, almost glaring at the glyph. “They've already set up a spell with our blood. Seeking out and locating?”

“I got that part, but I don't know what the rest means.”

Law frowned thoughtfully. “If we could see it all properly we'd probably figure it out, but we're stuck on the floor.”

They both paused when they heard footsteps, and Law's frown deepened when Doflamingo sauntered in with King beside him.

“You made things more difficult for us, Trafalgar,” King huffed. “The spell would have been less taxing on both of you if you hadn't teleported two other head witches out.”

“What shitty spell are you trying to make us do here?” Sanji scowled.

“Fufufufufu, it's simple.” Doflamingo grinned. “You're going to track down all the other head witches for us.”

Chapter Text

“Track down the other head witches?” Law scowled. “We can't just point at a map and tell you where people are, Doflamingo.”

“Yes, not in usual circumstances, but you shouldn't underestimate the magic that happens when you bring witches together to make a spell,” Doflamingo teased, and Law grimaced when he roughly ruffled Law's hair.

Doflamingo stepped back to the wall of the room, out of the way, throwing Law another smirk. Law glowered, but there was nothing he could do right now. He was stuck. King stepped right into the centre of the blood spell on the floor and raised his hand. The dried blood on the floor glowed, much to Law's horror, and he felt his own magic within King burst into life. Law's own slowly building up magical energy stirred in response, and he could see a white glow flowing over his body.

Sanji was glowing a light blue.

The podium beside Sanji lit up first- Robin's- it began to glow with dark purple magic. Doflamingo walked over to it and smirked.

“Fufufufu, it's not very specific, King.”

“How unspecific?” King eyed Doflamingo.

“It says she is in Wano.”

Law saw Sanji pale, and their eyes met, and Law knew he must have looked just as horrified as Sanji, before they schooled their faces.

They were trying to get exact locations of each of the head or heirs of the clans.

Thankfully they had gotten lucky here. They didn't know Robin's exact location, but if King used their blood again and wrote down more detailed runes, he could have an exact location the next time he used Sanji and Law to track witches.

They had to get out of here.

King scowled. “I suppose the runes need more work, either that or our witches here don't have enough energy to give an exact location.”

The podium next to Robin's lit up with pink magic, fluttered, then dimmed again. Law sagged against the chains holding his wrists above his head, his magic fluttering weakly. If they had any luck, their magic would give out before they tried to reveal another witch's location.

King had drained them both of most of their magic.

It just needed to run dry and then the spell should break.

Silver magic lit up over the next podium. Law had no idea who had silver magic. He warily watched Doflamingo go to it, then tilt his head curiously.

“This is the location your spies believe Red Haired Shanks is at,” Doflamingo revealed.

King stiffened. “Does that mean Red Haired has a witch on his crew?”

Law mentally cursed. They were outing witches that had been hiding in other powerful crews. Law had no idea that Red Haired Shanks had a head witch. Sanji's eye had widened too. Looks like he hadn't known either then.

“Why are you looking for all the head witches?” Law asked, his voice strained, heavy with exhaustion, much to his frustration.

This spell was taking out his energy fast. There would be no way he could ever perform something like this on his own if he ever needed to, well actually, maybe he could if a certain damn Lunarian didn't eat his magic.

“Fufufufu, why not?”

“I know you have a reason... you always have reasons...” Law scowled.

Doflamingo flashed another grin at him, but remained silent.

Cryptic bastard.

“Kaido wants all the witches,” King said. “You are all important.”

That hardly answered Law's question either.

Green magic flowed over the next podium- Brook's- and Doflamingo crossed his arms and huffed.

“Wano again.”

“How annoying,” King grumbled.

The one beside that glowed with gold magic. Law didn't recognise it, but Sanji did, because his eye widened in absolute horror.

Doflamingo frowned curiously. “Princess Vivi's whereabouts are unknown.”

Sanji jerked in his chains. “What the hell does that mean?”

Law grimaced. “She might be using a spell to conceal her presence.”

“But why?” Sanji frowned. “Vivi has no reason too, her and her family have a deal with the World Government. She's protected.”

“Fufufufu, unless something happened at the Reverie.”

Sanji's face paled further.

“This spell is hardly going well at all,” King huffed, then paused at the next podium, the one next to Law, began to turn orange.

Shit. Ace.

That was Ace's podium.

It sparked with orange magic, but Law's sight began to blur, his vision darkening. Thank the seas, he was finally passing out. Ace was in Mariejois, sure, but that didn't mean Law wanted to reveal anyone else's location.

Law slumped down completely, just as a pink blur walked up to Ace's podium, and raised a brow.

“He's...” Doflamingo's words were fading out. “...Mariejois...”

Law blacked out after that.

.::.

Nami was very worried. Robin and Brook hadn't woken up yet, and Usopp and Franky were both bed ridden after their injuries. They were now whole thanks to Law, but their sword wounds that cut wide across their chests were huge, and it was only thanks to the Heart Pirates that they were recovering.

Bepo, Penguin and Shachi were resting too, but not in the same town as them. Ikkaku had coldly announced that the Heart Pirates would not be hiding with the rest of them, and refused to say which town they were all in. Shinobu tried to insist, arguing that they needed to be interrogated about what exactly happened, but Ikkaku threatened to kill her if she dared. Kanjuro only just barely kept the peace.

Nami had been terrified of Ikkaku's face at the time, there had been no bright smile, or cocky smirk like usual. The masked guy, Hakugan, and Uni had both been with her, both armed and closed off. There had been no warmth on any of their faces like there usually was.

Nami tried to beg them to stay, but Ikkaku reminded them that while they had tried to rescue a total stranger, they had been willing to leave members of the Heart Pirate to rot in prison. She had still treated Robin, Brook, Franky and Usopp's injuries, but that had been all.

Nami had not heard from them since.

She hated this. Sanji and Law were both captured. Luffy was still in prison too. Zoro wasn't here either, and the others were all hurt... Nami bit her lip. She didn't want to be alone.

She needed her friends back.

.::.

Ikkaku watched Bepo pace along the street, wringing his hands, while Penguin stepped out of the abandoned house they had taken over.

The entire village had been abandoned, but the Heart Pirates had taken shelter within it and made it as comfortable as they could to help Bepo, Penguin and Shachi recover. Not that they were resting well. They were blaming themselves for Law's capture. Bepo had yelled that they had failed Law.

Bepo never yelled.

Penguin and Shachi had both been close to tears.

Uni had been the one to ease the tension when Bepo demanded they all charged back in to rescue Law. He agreed with them rescuing Law of course, but that they needed to heal first, or Law would never forgive them as their doctor.

Shachi was now trying to rest, but Bepo was way too agitated, and Penguin had retreated to the outskirts of the village, taking a den den mushi with a hibiscus flower tucked in its ear with him, and several of Law's witch stuff. Ikkaku wasn't exactly sure what he had grabbed, but he had told Uni to leave him be when he tried to coax him to rest.

Ikkaku had reassured Uni that she'd check in on Penguin later, and since it was now later, she was doing that now. Ikkaku brought some food along too. It didn't take her long to catch up to Penguin, who was sitting on the ground, drawing runes, much to her surprise.

“Penguin?” she called out softly, not wanting to disturb him when he looked so focus, but she didn't want to startle him either by just appearing at his side.

There was chalk all over the pavement, and he was copying something from a scroll of Law's, no... wait that wasn't Law's handwriting. That was someone else's, and it did ring a bell, but Ikkaku couldn't quite pinpoint whose it was.

“You're trying to cast a spell?” Ikkaku frowned. “But you're not a witch.”

“No, but Rouge showed me this a long time ago,” Penguin said. “It should help me boost up her den den mushi's signal.”

“Is that even possible?” Ikkaku asked.

“I don't know, but I have to try something.” Penguin gritted his teeth. “Kaido, Doflamingo, they have our Captain. We have to get Law back, but I don't know if anyone in this alliance has the strength to do that.”

Ikkaku frowned thoughtfully. “We need more powerful allies...”

“We need a monster, and Rouge would be delighted to hear me call her that,” Penguin said, then bit his lip, his hands shaking. “I can't... we can't let them keep Law...”

“But wasn't she going after Ace?” Ikkaku asked.

“The Reverie should be over by now,” Penguin said. “She either already has him...”

Ikkaku grimaced. “Or she failed...”

“I have full faith in her,” Penguin said, shaking his head. “She's the most powerful person I know, and I've known her since I was a teenager. She made sure Law, Bepo, Shachi and I could survive Paradise at the very least when she found us in North Blue, and is probably the reason why we've survived the New World so far too. I trust her.”

Ikkaku sighed, but nodded. “It's worth giving it a shot either way, but remember, you need to rest.”

“I'm almost done,” Penguin reassured.

“Don't you need magic to activate it?” Ikkaku asked, curious.

“Rouge said this would allow me to counteract that problem if I place her talisman in it. The one Law carried two years ago to keep her safe from Blackbeard,” Penguin explained.

“Oh yeah, Law kept it in the Polar Tang even after she disappeared for two years,” Ikkaku mused.

“She deliberately left it with some of her magic in it for this kind situation. If we need to get into contact with her, but the den den mushi can't, then this should work,” Penguin said, a desperate note in his voice. “It has to work...”

He stepped out of the circle of runes, and took the talisman out of his pocket. Ikkaku and Penguin shared a look, then he sat the talisman down in the centre of the circle, and rang the den den mushi.

It rang.

It kept ringing.

Ikkaku's stomach was churning.

Nobody was picking up.

Penguin's hands were shaking hard, and his lips were trembling, he was struggling to hold back tears. “Rouge, please... Law needs help...”

It kept ringing.

Penguin choked back a sob and bowed down, almost curling up, his head on the grass. “Please... Rouge... we need your help...”

Ikkaku's shoulders slumped when it just kept ringing. She sighed heavily and placed her hand on Penguin's shoulder after five minutes went by.

“It didn't work, Pen...” Ikkaku said softly, trying to take the den den mushi off him, but he refused to let go. “Penguin-”

“We can't! We need Rouge for Law' sake-” Penguin cried out.

A bolt of lightning struck down behind them both, making them both scream. Ikkaku was on her feet, daggers drawn, planting herself in front of Penguin, who shakily stood up, his joints still stiff from the torture in prison he went through.

Ikkaku immediately lowered her daggers, smiling shakily, when she saw Portgas D. Rouge standing in front of them.

“I thought I should come in person,” Rouge said, then grinned. “And I didn't come alone either. I brought you an old friend, Penguin.”

Ikkaku's eyes widened when another lightning bolt struck down, and Penguin flung himself forward at the bolt that had begun to form.

Portgas D. Ace.

Ace caught Penguin in a warm embrace, wrapping his arms tight around him.

“Hey, Penguin,” Ace greeted him.

Ikkaku clamped a hand over her mouth to smother a sob. Ace was back. Law would be amazed... Shachi and Bepo would cry...

Ace was finally back after all these years.

Chapter Text

Ace yawned, stretching out lazily as he wandered the halls of the castle. He wasn't sure what he wanted to do to be honest. Imu was busy listening into a meeting with Cobra and the Five Elders, and the plaza had gotten very quiet after Mjosgard whacked Charlos. The memory still made Ace chuckle. It was amusing.

This entire Reverie was amusing.

That was when he felt a lot of hakis cry out in fear, and a loud alarm blared out in the streets. It was quite a fair distance away, muffled by the walls of the castle until Ace headed for a window.

“GAH!” Ace yelped. “THE FOOD STORAGE!”

It had been exploded! Why would anyone attack the food storage? That was just dirty! It had so much precious food in it!

.::.

Vivi grimaced when she saw Rob Lucci down at the bottom of the stairs... drat... he was here to stop her leaving Mariejois... that was annoying...

“You can leave me alone, CP0,” Vivi said firmly, stepping down the last of the stairs. “I'm going to go and ask Vice Admiral Garp for assistance.”

“But you have us to protect you,” Lucci insisted.

“Like how you protected Shirahoshi?” Vivi scowled, ignoring the cross look he threw back at her. “You're a member of CP0, I can assume you aren't stupid. We both know they'll come back to take her away again.”

Lucci's frown deepened. “Please return to your room, Princess Vivi, you are not supposed to leave until Reverie is over. That is an order from the Five Elders.”

Vivi's jaw locked at that. An order from the Five Elders? What in the world?

“Why are they being so insistent?” Vivi hissed through gritted teeth. “I haven't done anything wrong.”

“I didn't ask.” Lucci gestured back up the stairs. “Come, let me escort you back to your room.”

Vivi grimaced. They needed Vice Admiral Garp up here badly... Shirahoshi needed him desperately to be kept safe... but this was an order from the Five Elders. They were the ones who upheld her contract, if she refused an order...

She could lose her freedom as a witch...

.::.

Rouge waited for Sabo to return back into the castle. Bonney was no longer with him, the girl must be off to Egghead Island next then, while Sabo's men grabbed Kuma. Sabo leapt back in the window, landing silently in the shadows beside her. Thatch stood at the opposite corner of the hallway, keeping an eye out for around the bend.

“I still haven't seen Ace, or felt his haki,” Thatch complained.

“Three objectives are nearly done, but we still need to get Ace back,” Sabo said. “And I'm curious about this Lost Chamber those guards mentioned earlier.”

Rouge opened her mouth, but once again, nothing came out. Sabo's eyes narrowed in response.

“So it's to do with that person who banished you back to the afterlife...” he murmured.

Rouge groaned. “This is so annoying.”

“We still need to find Ace, but this person... if this chamber is to do with them...”

Rouge nodded. “It is.”

“Then let's go-” Sabo said, turning on his heel, just as Thatch yelled.

“Look out!” Thatch cursed, lunging for Sabo, whose fist was already on fire, twisting round.

The CP0 masked agent had leapt out of the shadows, dagger aimed right at Sabo's throat. Rouge had launched herself forward, trying to grab the dagger, but the man was now a statue of ice. Frozen in place.

Sabo and Thatch both looked at her, but she shook her head.

“Wasn't me,” she insisted.

“Yeah, I'm the one in trouble for doing that.”

They all flinched as one, and spun on their heels to look further down the hallway. Rouge couldn't help but smile, relieved, when she saw Ace. He stood at the end of the hallway, leaning against a pillar, watching them all with a bemused look.

“Ace!” Thatch beamed. “You saved Sabo!”

Sabo huffed. “I was about to save myself,” he grumbled, lowering his flaming fist. “But thank you, Ace. I appreciate it.”

“Sure, sure.” Ace waved a dismissive hand. “Shouldn't have done that for you considering you burned down the food storage. What the heck am I supposed to eat now, Sabo? The grass?”

Sabo chuckled, walking leisurely towards Ace, keeping his pace even. “Sorry about that. How about I treat you to some food back on the main land?”

“Tempting.” Ace grinned, but the grin fell, and he shook his head, sighing softly. “But we both know that can't happen.”

“Rouge said you still wanted to come back here, even after being separated from her back in Big Mom's territory,” Sabo said, stopping only a few feet from Ace.

Rouge and Thatch had followed him, and kept their pace the same as Sabo's, but it killed her to stop away from Ace. Just a mere few feet away. She wanted to hug Ace. She wanted to see her son properly again.

“Yeah, I'm happy here, even if the food supply being blown up is a pain in the ass,” Ace said, shrugging lightly, then his eyes narrowed. “You're going a bit far playing revolutionary, Sabo.” He eyed Thatch next. “And shouldn't you be staying close to Pops side right now? I hear the Whitebeards have hit a pretty rough patch.”

Thatch offered a grin. “Yeah, well once we get you home everything will be set right again.”

Ace chuckled. “That's a lot of faith in one person.” Their eyes met, and Rouge saw Ace softened, looking a little mournful. “And I think you know where you're supposed to be, Mum,” he said, not unkindly.

Rouge smirked. “Eh, it's never been that easy to get rid of me, even if I get banished to the afterlife.”

“Fair point,” Ace sighed. “You all came here for your own goals. Congratulations, you probably achieved a fair few as Revolutionaries, but now is your time to retreat.”

Sabo tilted his head. “And why would you say that?”

“You're not going to the Lost Chamber, Sabo,” Ace said coldly, his eyes ice. “Give up on that idea now.”

So Ace had been listening in on them.

“It wasn't one of my original goals, I will admit,” Sabo mused, then held up one finger. “I had three objectives while I was here. Firstly was to destroy the symbol of the Celestial Dragons in a declaration of war.”

“Annoying, but reasonable for your lot. I suppose the food storage was another.” Ace smirked, but there was still a coldness in his eyes, and Rouge did not like it.

Thatch looked worried too.

“Yeah, that was my third goal.” Sabo held up the third finger, leaving the middle one down.

“And the second?” Ace tilted his head.

“Second, free as many slaves as I could.” Sabo held up two fingers.

“Cute.”

“And take back Kuma.”

Ace raised an eyebrow. “And did you?”

“Partly,” Sabo said. “But I didn't finish listing that goal. I'm still on number two. Take back Kuma, and Portgas D. Ace.”

“I see,” Ace chuckled, but it was sharp and didn't have a hint of amusement in it at all. “Thanks for clarifying, but I'm quite happy where I am.”

“Ace, please, you're not under your own control,” Thatch pleaded. “Teach had you first, then whatever thing keeps drawing you witches here. We want to take you home, set you free, reunite you with your family. Please come home.”

“It is good seeing you three again, but I think completing two objectives, and then half of one is more than enough,” Ace said, and the hallway grew rapidly cold, and Rouge saw the frost gathering at the edges of it, freezing the walls and the floor at the corners of it.

She could see Thatch's breath puffing out in a cloud.

It looked like only Rouge and Sabo were immune to the rapid cold right now.

“Go home,” Ace ordered. “Go back to your revolution, and go back to the Whitebeard Pirates. We are done here.”

Rouge scoffed. “As if some frost is going to scare me off.”

“And you gave me your devil fruit,” Sabo reminded him.

“Uh... I might be a bit more susceptible then...” Thatch said uneasily. “If you freeze me like that guy back there, I will really not be happy with you, Ace.”

Ace threw him a sweet smile. “Alright. I won't freeze you, Thatch.” He clicked his fingers, and Rouge cursed at the explosion of magic that burst out from the ceiling above them.

Fuck! Tornado!

It sent Sabo and Thatch flying, and Thatch almost hit the wall, only for Sabo the catch him as hail began raining down.

“Ow!” Thatch yelped, as Sabo threw up a fire wall above their heads.

Only for a flash of lightning to strike at their backs.

.::.

Sabo startled when Rouge appeared in front of them, taking the bolt of lightning right through the head. She staggered back, teeth gritted, and much to Sabo's shock, her body went see through for a split second as it coursed through her. That was when three dark circles with runes all over them appeared at their feet-

Those were teleportation runes-

Sabo tackled Rouge out of the way just in time, just as Thatch's swords sliced through the runes below him, cancelling out the spell.

“Dammit, Ace, stop making this difficult,” Sabo scolded, as Rouge twitched in his arms, still recovering from the lightning strike.

“F-Fuck,” Rouge cursed, shaking her head. “You and Thatch can't afford to get hit by one of those lightning strikes,” she said through gritted teeth. “My hair is static now, ain't it?”

“That's what you're worried about?” Sabo snorted.

“I'd be worried too!” Thatch said. “Portgas D. Ace, you better not ruin my hair!”

Ace smirked, just as a loud boom crackled out from above them, then a downpour slammed down on top of them immediately. They were all soaked in seconds, and Thatch wailed as his hair flopped into his face.

“You shouldn't have said anything.” Sabo shook his head, just as the downpour ended.

Had Ace done that just to be petty?

Out of the corner of his eye Sabo saw Ace's hand spark with lightning- no, shit, the water- he was about to electrocute them!

Rouge froze the water beneath their feet all around Ace, but Ace leapt over it and stamped on it, shattering it to pieces. Sabo threw a fire fist, and got in close as Ace dodged the attack. He aimed his haki covered staff at Ace's head, which of course Ace ducked beneath the blow with wide eyes, just as Sabo had planned. He spun into a kick, slamming his leg into Ace's side, tossing him towards Thatch.

“Thatch, now!” Sabo yelled.

Thatch lunged for Ace, but Ace ducked beneath his hand and slid between his legs, escaping him. Dammit.

Rouge had drawn a teleportation rune on to Thatch's hand with her own blood. He just needed to press it against Ace and the two of them would return to her house in Sphinx. They just had to get a hold of Ace first.

“Jeez, I forgot how slippery my son could be,” Rouge groaned.

“I guess Thatch has some kind of teleportation rune then if he's the one trying to grab me,” Ace said, frowning.

“Good guess,” Thatch muttered.

“Yeah, a bit of a lesser version of what you had put on the floor,” Rouge said. “How did you manage that so fast?”

“You didn't notice it earlier, but I had tossed down three sheets of paper.” Sabo's eyes widened, and he searched the floor, but they weren't there anymore. Probably destroyed by the water, ice then his fire. “It had the runes on them. You would have all been sent back down to the Sabaody,” Ace said, shrugging lightly.

“Our one is better,” Thatch said, wriggling his fingers. “We get to go somewhere awesome.”

“Then how about you and Sabo go and use it to leave,” Ace said.

“Not me?” Rouge grinned.

Ace smiled. “You could leave anytime you like.”

“Rahahaha, true, but not without you. I-” Sabo saw her eyes widen, and Ace's at the same time.

Sabo spotted it too, a needle flying through the air, right at the small of Ace's back. He dodged it, but not fast enough, it struck his leg, biting deep into his thigh. Ace ripped it out, but he immediately buckled on that leg, eyes wide as he looked behind his shoulder. Thatch's jaw dropping.

Sabo followed his gaze, and startled when he saw an elderly woman in a tank top hiding in the shadows of the hallway, all the way back where Sabo had came from leaving Bonney.

“Kureha!” Rouge gasped.

Sabo stiffened. This was Doctor Kureha then. The Immortal witch. Sabo sprinted into action immediately, grabbing Ace's wrist, twisting it up behind his back. That earned a pained hiss, but Sabo ignored that and pressed his other arm up against Ace's throat, pinning him in place.

“Stay still, Ace,” Sabo ordered.

Ace gritted his teeth. “Dammit...”

“I thought I felt your haki, Rouge,” Kureha said. “Long time no see, girly.”

Ace grimaced, stiffly holding himself up, he was still leaning slightly against Sabo, he must have found balancing himself difficult with whatever Kureha did to his leg. “Four of you are getting involved now? Really?” Ace complained.

“I'm just a little curious, so I thought I'd make you stay still for a bit. It'll wear off soon enough,” Kureha admitted. “What have you told the person who has a hold on us up here? As far as I was aware, they didn't know I existed-”

“And now you're worried I've spilled the beans,” Ace said, a bite to his tone. “I didn't tell him. But he already knows.”

“How much exactly?”

“That the immortality witch is hiding from him,” Ace said. “He's watching out for you.”

Kureha looked a little paler. “I see.”

“No. You really don't.” Ace smiled, but it was another cold smile. “You think you can keep hiding, but you came here. He calls to us, as we call to him.”

“We're running out of time,” Sabo said gravely. “Thatch, it's time to go.”

Thatch frowned. “You sure...?”

“I am.” Sabo nodded. “Get Ace home.”

“Alright. I will.” Thatch approached, yanking off his glove, the one with the rune drawn on it. Ace tensed at the sight, but Sabo tightened his hold.

“Relax, Ace,” Sabo said softly. “Just relax... this is for your own good. You're going to go home, you'll see your family again.”

“Dammit... let me go, Sabo...” Ace hissed.

“I hope...” Sabo held Ace tighter, burying his head into Ace's shoulder. “I hope the next time we see each other you'll be free and happy...”

“Sabo, whatever you do, do not go into the Lost Chamber,” Ace pleaded. “Don't do it. You'll die.”

That only made Sabo more concerned about what was going on in there. He needed to check it out, just in case.

“I'll see you later, Ace,” Sabo promised.

He let go of Ace the moment Thatch's hand was inches away from him. Sabo saw Ace try to leap away, but his leg was still weighing him down just by a bit. Thatch and Ace disappeared in a flash of magic, Rouge's magic warm, caressing over them all lovingly.

They all remained silent for a few moments, before Kureha turned and walked away without another word. Rouge frowned after her, then grinned at Sabo.

“So... Lost Chamber then?” Rouge asked.

Sabo nodded. “Lost Chamber it is.”

Chapter Text

Vivi strained against the ropes, but they were tied tightly to the chair, not budging at all. Lucci had kidnapped her and dragged her into a private room with several other members of what she believed were also CP0, even after she had listened and went to return to her rooms- rather reluctantly, but even she knew better than to outright disobey the Five Elders, considering her status as a free witch. Lucci left once she was tied up. The other members relaxed in their chairs, some playing card games, while two of them kept an eye on her more closely.

“What do you think you are doing kidnapping me?” Vivi scowled. “Untie these ropes! Who even ordered this? I'll tell the entire world about what's happening here!”

“You're too honest for your own good,” the long moustache guy laughed. “Who would let you go after a threat like that? You stubborn lady!”

“I'm sorry, Princess,” the blonde woman said. “But nobody will help you here. Your witch contract has been cancelled. You are to stay here in Mariejois now.”

Vivi's stomach sank. “What in the world does that mean? Cancelled? I've never heard of such a thing! I didn't break my side of the contract!”

“All the witch contracts with the world government have now been cancelled,” the woman corrected. “There are none anymore. All the head witches are being brought in.”

Vivi grimaced. “Is Shirahoshi safe?”

She hadn't been able to get any help from Vice Admiral Garp after Lucci grabbed her, and she didn't know if Mjosgard was still with Shirahoshi either. Vivi hoped she was alright...

“Huh?” the long moustache guy startled. “You're worried about someone else right now?”

“Another incident did happen earlier, but long story short, she is fine now,” the woman said.

Vivi sighed in relief. “That's good to hear...”

The meetings would be over soon, so Shirahoshi and her family would probably leave immediately after that. They would be safe.

“Those that bet up the Celestial Dragon who tried to take the mermaid came out and announced that they were Straw Hat Luffy's followers, loud and proudly I might add,” the guy said, huffing in amusement. “The square's in a right riot after that. Then over in the Land of the Gods Fujitora and Ryokugyu are fighting each other now after Fujitora helped out the slaves. Man, this Reverie's been something else!”

Vivi grimaced. She had to do something... she couldn't just stay locked up in here... Whatever had control over Ace would take control over her too... She'd rather die than be someone's pet!

The sound of crashing startled her, as well as the CP0 agents. What surprised Vivi even more was that Wapol came bursting through the wall, crying, running around blindly.

“HELP ME!” he wailed. “I DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING!”

Vivi gasped. This was the right time! All the CP0 agents had backed away from her side of the room. None of them were watching her. She had a chance to escape.

She just needed to take it!

.::.

Mum's magic washed over Ace and Thatch. The hallway was replaced by a living room, with two couches, a small rug, and what Ace could see was mum's old jewellery that she stole from years ago set up on a table and one of her jackets tossed over one of the arms of a couch with a very familiar figure sitting there, but Ace ignored him. Ace jerked away from Thatch, horrified. Imu was gone. So were the Elders. He couldn't feel them. They weren't in Mariejois anymore. What the hell-

“Take me back!” Ace snapped, glaring at Thatch. “You idiot. Do you know what you've done? They'll kill Sabo if he goes in the Lost Chamber!”

“I have faith in him,” Thatch said. “Sabo said he'd see you again, so have some confidence in your brother.”

“He doesn't know what he is up again, and neither do you,” Ace said. “I'm needed too. He needs me. I can't just leave him-”

Ace's mind momentarily blanked, then he flinched, as that longing, that need to be by Imu's side. It was going away... it was just like with Teach...

Thatch was watching him carefully, as was Marco, who was still sat on the couch, his posture relaxed, but Ace could tell it was faked. Ace could also feel a very familiar haki outside too, but his head was foggy, and it was a struggle to think straight at the moment.

Pops was here though, just outside, an amused thought of how he probably couldn't fit in the house almost made him chuckle, but Ace wasn't entirely sure what he felt right now. He sat down beside Marco, his hands shaky, as he rubbed his forehead.

He was getting a headache.

“Rouge thought the control over you would weaken if you were far away from whoever has their blood in your grimoire, but it's also been two years, so I guess you're probably feeling rough either way yoi,” Marco said softly, and Ace blinked heavily when his hand landed in his hair, a caress of warmth brushing over Ace from his healing flames.

Ace blinked heavily at that, then felt the tension leave his shoulders as his eyes slid shut. That did feel nice actually.

Thatch knelt down in front of him, hand on Ace's knee, and Ace met his gaze, which looked hopeful. “How are you feeling? Any better?”

“I'll tell you when I know...” Ace sighed, shaking his head.

“It might take some time, but you're home yoi,” Marco said. “You've got as much time as you need now.”

Thatch gasped, startling both of them, and Ace looked up to see Thatch was staring at his hand, just as a seagull cawed outside. The black dot on his hand was fading. Thatch immediately grew teary eyed, then burst into happy tears.

“We did it!” Thatch laughed, patting Ace's knee, before collapsing on to the floor beside Ace's legs, his laugh a little more hysterical. “We did it...”

Ace threw him a small smile. “Congrats.”

Thatch softened, then threw him a big grin. “Welcome home, Ace.”

“Before I let either of you settle too much there is someone who needs to see you both first yoi,” Marco said, standing up, offering out a hand for Ace.

Right, Pops, he was still waiting... Ace didn't even know what to say to him after all this time... he wasn't even sure what he should say to Marco and Thatch... he had... he had handed Thatch over to the marines...

Fuck, how did he forget about that? Or just not care, because yeah, he had remembered. Ace just hadn't cared.

Thatch could have died. Many of their siblings had. The actions Ace took, it had led to Marineford...

“Thatch-” Ace began, lowering his head. “I-”

Thatch's hand settled on to his head, ruffling his hair. “Don't you dare,” he huffed. “I should be the one apologising since Teach caught me twice. That bastard.”

“I handed you over to the marines...” Ace said shakily, tears stinging his eyes. “You could have died... everyone could have... Marineford, all that fighting... if I hadn't been under Teach's control-”

“And there you said it,” Thatch cut in firmly. “You were under his control. You had no choice in any of this. I can't imagine the last time you had a choice to be perfectly honest, and that thought is horrifying to me.”

Thatch stood up too, tugging Ace's arm. “C'mon, now you really need to see Pops. He's always been able to get through to you, and birdy boy here too.”

Ace managed a smile. “You're not giving yourself enough credit, Thatch.”

Marco rolled his eyes. “Yeah, Ace would always listen to you and Haruta when it came to causing trouble.”

Thatch beamed. “It's because we're the cool kids.”

“Yeah, sure yoi.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Thatch pouted.

.::.

Whitebeard was sick of waiting. He had been struggling to wait outside Rouge's house in Sphnix (he had built it for her years ago, revealing it for whenever she needed a safe place to go- he wished she had used it and not went to Baterilla-), but it wasn't in his size. It was her size to make her feel more at home. Ace's house was just across from hers too, built by Fossa, sitting and waiting for Ace to come home. All his commanders had one each here, while the others sailed on their ships nearby the island, just an hour away or so. Most of his children knew the location of Sphinx, and that Whitebeard used it to rest in, but they didn't know how to get in, or that it was his childhood home, no, only the commanders really knew about it (Marco and Rouge knew the most about those old stories.)

He could feel Ace's haki now. All warm and bright, along with Thatch's softer, somehow sweeter, haki. Honestly, Whitebeard still hadn't managed to figure out how Thatch had sweeter haki. His strange children.

Marco had been waiting for them inside all this time, since the moment Rouge contacted them to say the operation was underway. It had been painfully long hours of all of them waiting. Marco had sent the others to work quickly, while Whitebeard and Marco waited by Rouge's house, where her teleportation glyph was written on the floor. The one Thatch and Ace should come through if the plan worked out correctly. Thankfully it seemed it had. It was such a relief to feel Ace's haki again. Now he just had to see his youngest son.

It took a painfully long time for them to come outside. Whitebeard understood why, Ace would have needed time to calm down, maybe even snap out of the control whatever being had over him up in Mariejois. But Whitebeard drank in the sight of his youngest the moment he stepped out the door.

Ace's hair had grown out into a low ponytail, and there was scruff on his face now. He had on a shirt with the sleeves pushed back up to his elbows, and black trousers with formal black shoes. It was the most dressed up Whitebeard had ever seen his son look. But he could see him. Ace's grey eyes, his mother's freckles, and Whitebeard felt so much tension leave his shoulders.

His son was finally home.

“Hello, Ace,” Whitebeard greeted him warmly. “Welcome home, son.”

Ace's eyes widened, and he was taking in the sight of him, probably just as much as Whitebeard was taking him in. He could see the tears burning up in Ace's eyes, and Whitebeard was about to yank him into a hug when Ace's eyes flashed with shame and he bowed down low. Marco shook his head, while Thatch grew teary eyed.

“I am so sorry-”

“You stupid child!” Whitebeard admonished immediately, yanking him up into a hug, earning a gasp. “What do you think you have to be sorry for?”

Ace shook his head, his voice choking up. “I obeyed every single one of Teach's orders. I gave Thatch over to the marines. I didn't help any of you out at Marineford and it nearly got Luffy killed-”

“The only thing you have to be sorry for is giving us all a heart attack when you destroyed your vivre card,” Whitebeard scolded, holding Ace tighter, running his hand over his back. “You were under Teach's control. You had no choice in everything you did apart from that damned vivre card.”

Ace snorted, he sounded more amused at least, rather than distraught. “Not like it even worked... Thatch still found me...”

Thatch threw them a grin. “I'm amazing.”

Marco rolled his eyes. “Uh huh.”

“You hush, mother hen!” Thatch pouted, then brightened when he looked back at Whitebeard, and it was even more soothing to see him so happy. “And I've got another surprise for you, Pops.”

“Guararara, it's not even my birthday, yet I'm being spoiled. Ace is home, safe and looking well, and you came home safely too, Thatch,” Whitebeard grinned, patting Ace's head. “What is it, son?”

Thatch held up his palm, his clear, empty palm-

It took Whitebeard a second longer than it should have to catch on.

The black mark was gone.

That was another heavy weight off his shoulders. He swore the stress his boys were giving him were causing half of his health problems (not the alcohol, definitely not, no matter what Marco said.)

“Guarararara, congratulations, son. You did it. Ace is home.” Whitebeard patted Thatch's back. “You're free again.”

Thatch threw him a tired smile. “Looks like I can finally rest properly now.”

Ace shook his head. “I still can't believe you did that... You said I gave you all heart attacks, but when Thatch took on that black mark...”

“You're both as reckless as each other,” Whitebeard chuckled, shaking his head fondly, but he was worried. There was no sign of Rouge. He didn't want to spoil the moment though, nor stress Ace out again. He still seemed so unsure and nervous, despite them trying to reassure him. “How are you feeling, Ace?”

“Head is still a bit foggy, but I don't have the urge to go back to Mariejois right now,” Ace said, grimacing. “Sorry for giving you, mum and Sabo so much hassle, Thatch.”

Thatch laughed. “I'd be more worried if you didn't.”

Ace grimaced. “I'm still worried about him and mum though. They stayed behind.” Ace opened his mouth up, but there was only silence, then his eyes widened. “Oh no...”

“What's wrong yoi?” Marco frowned.

“I can't say the name...” Ace frowned deeply. “I can't explain what happened...”

Marco shared an uneasy look with Whitebeard.

“You can't tell us who kept you, Ace?” Whitebeard asked.

“No...”

“Your mother couldn't either,” Whitebeard admitted. “I'd appreciate it if you could tell us as much as you can though.”

“It wasn't much to be honest. When Kizaru captured me back in Marineford he took me straight to Mariejois and directly to the castle where the Five Elders were waiting for me.” Ace crossed his arms. “As well as...” Ace scowled. “I'm just calling him 'shadow man' again to make this easier. It was the first time my head had been cleared from Teach. I could think for myself, but then the shadow man appeared and all my worries about all of you, Law, Sabo and Luffy were just gone. I didn't even think about any of you after that...” Ace's face fell, but Whitebeard stroked his hair in reassurance.

“That's not your fault, son. This shadow has control over you all, if he has been the one causing all of you to act so strangely around Mariejois.”

“He is...” Ace sighed. “Anyway, I stayed in Mariejois, learned more spells, let go of my devil fruit, yada, yada. Nothing noteworthy really happened I will admit.”

“Did anyone hurt you?” Whitebeard asked, his voice growing firm.

If they had hurt his son-

“No, I was safe.” Ace softened against him. “The Celestial Dragons treated me with respect too. Nobody tried to enslave or hurt me...” Ace shivered. “But shit... I didn't even care about the mistreatment of the slaves... that...” He shook his head, biting his lip.

Thatch shook his head. “Again that wasn't your fault, Ace, you've been under this shadow man's control. You didn't even have any choice over your own thoughts, just like with Teach.”

Ace's jaw locked. “I feel so pathetic...” he hissed through gritted teeth.

“None of that, Ace,” Whitebeard chided. “I won't let you say that about yourself. Not when I couldn't even save you.”

“Pops-” Ace's face fell. “You can't take responsibility for that-”

“Then you can't take responsibility for what other people did,” Whitebeard insisted. “Teach was the cause of all this mess with our crew, and what the Celestial Dragons did up in Mariejois wasn't your fault. If you hadn't been under someone's control, we all know what you would have done anyway.”

Marco snorted. “Punch them like his baby brother did.”

Thatch winced. “Yeah, then get arrested by the God Knights.”

Ace laughed shakily. “Okay, yeah, fair point. I'd get such a lecture from them too.” He groaned, covering his face. “By the Seas, that would be horrifying actually. Shamrock would never let me hear the end of it.”

“You knew the God Knights too?” Thatch asked.

“Yeah, two years stuck in the same place means you get to know the residents fairly well,” Ace mused. “Or at least the ones who could fight. I needed someone to train with, and not just in my magic.”

“I'm glad to know you weren't harmed, Ace,” Whitebeard said, then loosened his hug, releasing him. “But I think your brothers and sisters are going to want to know you're safe too.”

“Is everyone here?” Ace frowned, looking around. “Wherever here is...?”

“Do you remember when I told you what island I'm from?” Whitebeard asked.

Ace paused thoughtfully. “Sphinx, right?”

“Yeah, right now only the commanders and nurses are allowed on the island for security purposes yoi,” Marco said. “We all have our homes built here.”

Ace frowned. “I heard things have been getting worse for the Whitebeard Pirates...”

“Our forces are down, and so is the number of territories we could protect after Teach and his pests continued to attack us at our weak points,” Whitebeard admitted, reluctantly. “We were also taken by surprise when we found more traitors in our crew.”

Ace grimaced. “That explains why nobody else is on the island...”

“I hated to do it, but Marco insisted,” Whitebeard grumbled.

Marco twitched. “Of course I did, Pops! You needed somewhere to rest without any worries.” He shook his head, exasperated. “The others remained on the ships, still sailing, but we've been cut down by a lot of our men as Pops was saying. We're managing to hold on to our title as an Emperor crew, but the news is heavily holding out for Teach to rise up and take our spots.”

“That jerk Morgans loves causing drama,” Thatch grumbled.

“There was one exception though yoi,” Marco said, smiling warmly. “There is a certain someone waiting back at your house-”

Ace blinked. “My house?”

Whitebeard pointed across the field. “Fossa built yours near your mothers.”

“I thought I recognised some of those jewels in the living room,” Ace chuckled. “But you really-”

Whitebeard ruffled his hair. “Of course we had your house built too, son. We had hoped we could bring you home sooner than this, but Reverie unfortunately was the best chance to do so.”

Ace smiled softly. “Thank you, Pops.”

Ace wouldn't never have any idea how good it felt just to hear his son call him that again. He was home. Ace was finally home.

But the problem now was; where the hell was Rouge?

Chapter Text

Imu roared. A loud, horrifying thing, but Rouge's lightning storm was still striking down around him, holding him back, but barely. Sabo immediately grabbed King Cobra as he and Rouge bolted.

“This is bad!” Rouge cursed. “Last time they didn't all go into beast form like that!”

“You can escape on your own!” Cobra gasped out. “It's too late for me. Put me down!”

“No! I'm saving you!” Sabo vowed.

He had to get Cobra out. He was one of the good kings in the world. They needed him to help lead the new world into a kinder place to live.

Into freedom.

“I've realised something today...” Cobra breathed out. “You must not die here!” he said, determined. “Send a message to Luffy and Vivi!”

Sabo blinked. “Luffy and Princess Vivi...?”

“Tell them that we also bear the name of D!” Cobra said, shocking him, even as Cobra sagged against him, a sigh of relief escaping his lips. “...At last I see a way forward for Alabasta...”

Rouge looked troubled as they ran, then her eyes widened. “Sabo! Look out!” she yelled, lunging for him.

The arrow tore through all three of them, even though Rouge threw herself in the way. Another lightning storm crashed down on top of the Elders and the shadowy figure, even as Sabo choked and gasped, fighting not to black out as he hit the ground hard.

Holy shit that hurt... that hurt so much...

Rouge was already on her feet, murder in her eyes, burning fiercely, as Imu and the other monsters descended on her.

“Not my kid!” Rouge snarled.

Sabo's heart hammered in his chest.

Rouge who let out a battle cry, swinging her swords back. “THIEVES-”

He didn't heard the last of her attack, almost instantly the monsters swarmed her, and they fought. Blood splattering everywhere.

Crap... Cobra... Sabo forced himself back up, despite the white hot blinding pain tearing straight through his side. “King Cobra!” he called out, alarmed when Cobra stood up, placing himself in front of Sabo.

“The poneglyphs!”

Sabo's eyes widened. Cobra finished his message, the letter from Nefetari D. Lili, as Rouge slammed through the walls, making the entire building shake.

Rouge had brought them a precious few seconds. But that was all they had now.

“Go!” King Cobra yelled. “I'm counting on you, Sabo! Please!”

Sabo cursed, but turned and ran, shameful tears burning in his eyes. “King Cobra!” he cried out, regretful.

He was still so damned weak!

Sabo groaned, stirring awake, his head pillowed in Rouge's lap. Rouge was idly stroking his hair while he rested, but stopped when he shifted against her, blinking tiredly. Right... he had passed out outside the castle... he had remembered collapsing, only to be caught by Rouge's arms. A bloodied, battered Rouge.

Rouge who had smiled, and told him it would be alright. That he could rest.

He had black out immediately after that.

“Where are we?” Sabo asked hazily.

“We're heading to Lulusia Kingdom,” Rouge explained. “I managed to sneak us aboard their ship, so try to keep quiet since we're both stowaways.”

Sabo winced and clutched his wounds. Rouge grimaced at the sight, hating the helplessness that dug low into her gut, but she had to be realistic here. It was a miracle she had managed to heal Sabo as much as she had.

“I healed you as best as I could, but my magic is too depleted after fighting the Elders and shadow man.” Rouge frowned. “It's a good thing Ace has grown stronger, otherwise I'd be banished again...”

“Is Ace okay...?” Sabo asked, sitting up slowly, grimacing at each tug of his wounds.

Rouge did place a steadying hand on his shoulder, and helped him lean against the wall. “I managed to speak to Marco by den den mushi for an update. Ace is feeling pretty guilty, my silly self sacrificial child, about Thatch being captured and handed over back in Marineford, but Eddy and the others are sorting that out. The good news is that Ace is back in control over himself, and is reuniting with everyone. He is worried about you though.” Rouge pouted. “He told me off when he got a hold of the den den mushi.”

Sabo chuckled fondly. “For going to that chamber?”

“Yeah, he said I knew better too,” Rouge huffed. “Being told off by my son is so weird. I'm still used to him being a hot headed brat.”

Sabo snorted.

“He's grown up way too fast,” Rouge bemoaned, then eyed Sabo, looking over him fondly. “You all have.” She ruffled his hair gently. “You kids are brilliant.”

That was... she was... Sabo couldn't fight off the embarrassed flush to his cheeks, which made her grin and pinch them, much to his bemusement.

“Rouge!”

“You and Ace are always so easily embarrassed,” Rouge giggled. “Luffy always accepts my compliments happily.”

“Yeah, but it's Luffy.” Sabo smirked. “He's so short that he needs all the compliments he can get.”

“I dare you to say that to his face.”

“I'll try remember to do that the next time I see him.” Sabo grinned.

“That's my boy.”

.::.

It was funny. Ace had been told there was a house for him on Sphinx, very close to his mum's in fact, but he hadn't actually seen it for the first few days.

No, the first few days were spent reuniting with his fellow Commanders who were all on Sphinx, (with some apologies from him, which they quickly told him off for.) There was also a lot of drinking, and partying, and so much food. He had talked to them all, especially Pops, and together they had all caught him up on everything that had happened throughout the years.

It had been a lot to process...

He had slept over at Thatch's house mainly, because they had really needed to talk about everything... the night he had been stabbed, the night Ace handed over his grimoire, and everything after all...

There had been a lot of tears. A lot of exhaustion. A lot of late night cooking, and a lot of laughing.

Those late night chats with Thatch had been much needed, for both of them.

Ace hadn't expected to actually have a house made for him on Sphinx, or that Kotatsu would be there. It had been a beautiful reunion, full of tears (from him) and lots of purrs (from Kotatsu) as they had snuggled each other.

The house was amazing. Living room, kitchen, bathroom, then upstairs had his bedroom. And the bedroom, he had gotten used to the giant suite he had back in Mariejois, so to see a small room with all his personal affects from his days as a Spade Pirate and a Whitebeard Pirate made him feel all warm inside.

Especially when he saw his hat again.

Ace hadn't placed it back on yet, simply held it in his hand.

“I hope this hasn't been too overwhelming for you yoi,” Marco said softly from behind him.

Ace smiled over his shoulder at him, then turned around to lean against his desk, holding his hat in his hands. “A little,” he admitted. “My mind hasn't exactly been my own for years. I didn't miss a single one of you, I didn't even think about any of you...” he trailed off awkwardly. “I... I kind of hate myself a little for that after seeing the state all of you were in...”

Marco softened. “I wish you didn't. None of this was your fault, this shadow guy, and Teach are both one hundred percent at fault for all this. They caused all this yoi.”

“...Teach told me a lot of things... some about his past, and I...” Ace sighed, shaking his head as he summoned his grimoire to his hands. “This books holds both Teach's and the shadow man's blood. They can control me with it...” He grimaced. “The hold have on me is going to be a pain in the ass...”

“Do you feel the urge to go back to any of them yoi?” Marco frowned.

“No, thankfully not, but I am worried that if I ever ran into any of them, or heard their voices again, then I would.” Ace's jaw tightened, he couldn't let that happen again, those two controlling him, his thoughts, his feelings, and he never even really registered it in that state either.

It was so frustrating...

“I don't want it to happen again,” Ace admitted.

“You're safe here,” Marco said gently, and Ace smiled when Marco's hand squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. “They won't find you in Sphinx yoi.”

“I hope not, but I also can't underestimate shadow man or Teach,” Ace mused, then sighed, shaking his head, as he placed on his hat. “Teach hopefully won't realise that I'm out of Mariejois for a long time. If he does though... I will not let him attack Sphinx...”

“I'm not sure how much help it would be...” Marco murmured. “And I was going to give you more time to settle in first, but I think I'll show you this first yoi.”

“What first?” Ace tilted his head.

“Your Sanctuary.”

.::.

The Portgas Sanctuary was filled with books and scrolls, and had a smooth, stone floor, with a small grassy centre that had wild flowers throughout it. There were runic pillars, four of them, lining up just outside the grassy centre, but there were also four altars in between the bookshelves at each wall. The first altar burned with a flame. The second had rocks floating above it. The third had water lazily rolling like a snake, with little ice droplets hanging from the edges of the platform, frozen solid. The fourth had wind swirling around on top of it, faint traces of lightning flickering through the tiny storm.

Ace could feel his ancestors magic flow through him, and inhaled sharply when he suddenly saw a woman, about the same height as his mum, with long black hair, familiar grey eyes, very familiar freckles, and a very familiar grin.

Portgas D. Ann.

“I'm going to keep fighting until the end,” Ann said firmly, turning to face a glowing figure figure, right where they stood on the edge of a cliff, the wind breezing gently by them.

“Ann?” The figure tilted his head. “It's not going to be the end.”

Ann grinned. “You're damn right it won't be.”

One moment she was healthy and whole, then there was a hole in her chest, a huge, bloodied whole with her empty insides there, and her eyes lifeless despite her smile, before she was gone again, and he could see the sanctuary all around him again.

Ace inhaled sharply and rubbed his own chest anxiously. That had... what had...

Shit...

“Ace?” Marco called out.

Ace glanced over his shoulder. Marco hadn't seen her. Just him then.

“Sorry, I can feel my ancestors here,” Ace said softly, then tilted his head. “There's a lot of magic in here.”

He saw the familiar spark of lightning zap next to him, as mum emerged from the bolt, eyeing the chamber curiously.

“I just saw a vision of Ann...” she murmured, but Ace saw that she looked troubled.

Ace twitched. “You went and tried to fight like a moron!”

Mum laughed sheepishly. “I'm really not used to you lecturing me.”

“We both know how dangerous shadow man is,” Ace scolded. “He banished you once before, he could have done it again, and killed Sabo.”

“We both got out alive...” Mum trailed off. “Okay, Sabo got out alive. I'm already dead...”

Ace rolled his eyes, and winced when his mum pinched his cheeked.

“I saw that, you little shit,” Mum laughed, shaking her head.

“And I-”

Her den den mushi suddenly rang. Mum frowned, and tried to answer it, but nothing happened. Nobody spoke. But mum's frown deepened nonetheless, and eyed him.

“This is bad timing,” she murmured.

“But...?” Ace tilted his head.

“Penguin needs our help.”

.::.

Asking for permission (or being dragged back to Pops by Marco) got Ace a lot of 'nos' when he tried to explain the situation. Mum tried to of course, but she was told off too.

So... they may or may not have left without permission...

Pops was going to kill Ace, if Marco didn't beat him to it first...

Chapter Text

“So wait, you came here without permission from Whitebeard?” Shachi teased, poking Ace's suddenly blushing cheeks.

“He'll understand,” Ace said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head with a laugh.

Mum snorted. “He's gonna kick both our asses, even if I left him a note saying sorry.”

“He's so overprotective now,” Ace complained. “I'm in my twenties. I was also fine in Mariejois. It's not like I was ever harmed, just... mind controlled?”

Mum raised a brow.

“I was spoiled rotten,” Ace reminded her. “I lived in a castle and ate all the food I want.”

“Has the past two years been like a holiday for you?” Penguin huffed.

“Kinda!” Ace grimaced. “I still can't say the name out loud of the shadow who kept me there though. It's really annoying. I want to tell people what is going on up there, but I can't. Shamrock will be awfully amused, the jerk.”

That was one person he had to leave out when he told everything to the Heart Pirates. He had been forced to call Imu a shadow man, and hadn't been able to reveal any of his plans. Ace's tongue sat too heavy in his mouth whenever he tried, and he had never been able to form the words. It was the same for the Whitebeard Pirates too.

Ace couldn't talk about Imu to people who hadn't seen him.

He wondered if Imu had cursed him before Ace escaped Mariejois.

“Shamrock?” Bepo tilted his head.

“He's one of the God Knights,” Ace said. “But he was away on official business by the time Sabo's attack began on Mariejois.”

“I got word about that just before Penguin summoned us,” Mum said, her brow furrowed. “Ace... Shamrock was sent after Blue...”

Ace's eyes widened. “Is he okay?”

“He's with Red now, he's safe,” Mum soothed. “But it was a shocker, and it's spun his organisation into a right mess. It was a slaughterhouse.”

Ace grimaced. “They were Impel Down's criminals, but not even they deserved to be murdered like that. I like Shamrock, but when he's pissed... and Blue escaping would have pissed him off...”

“What's going on?” Penguin asked. “Who are Red and Blue?”

“Bad witch business,” Ace sighed. “But it's nothing we can do anything about now, and if Blue is with Red, then he'll be fine.” Ace grinned. “Now I need to know what you lot have been doing here. I've told you everything that happened to me these past two years, so c'mon! Gimme the gossip!”

Ikkaku laughed. “It's been crazy, that's for sure.”

“Do you know that Law was a Warlord?” Penguin asked.

“Yeah, he got a deal made to let him stay out of Mariejois,” Ace said. “Lucky jerk.”

“Let's get the brief version,” Mum said, her eyes darkening. “Because we need to go get Law and Sanji back.”

Ace nodded. “True. I hope they're alright.”

“If they aren't I will slaughter Kaido's little soldiers and bled them out on his front door,” Mum said darkly. “Penguin, you, Bepo and Shachi are injured-”

“But-” Bepo protested.

“Stay,” she ordered, her voice softening. “I'll get your Captain back. I promise. You know me...”

Penguin grinned tiredly. “Yeah. You'll destroy Wano if it means getting one of your kids back.”

Mum winked. “You, Shachi and Bepo are mine too, maybe not my kiddy kids, but I did train you three with Law, Ace and Luffy back in North Blue. So once I track down Hawkins I'll butcher him for torturing you three.”

“I like how the only sane one went with Dragon,” Shachi muttered.

Ace snorted. “Sabo is not sane. He directly attacked Mariejois.”

Shachi grimaced. “True.”

“Ikkaku, you're pretty sneaky,” Mum mused, then grinned, and grabbed her shoulder. “Let's go.”

“Eh?” Ikkaku startled.

But before she could say another word, mum disappeared in a flash of lightning with Ikkaku in tow. Ace threw Penguin a sheepish smile, who sighed, shaking his head tiredly, as the other Heart Pirates panicked.

“We'll be back soon, or you'll hear something interesting,” Ace laughed, then followed after his mum, disappearing into his own bolt of lightning to chase after her magical energy.

They didn't bother changing their clothes to fit in. Ace landed on a rooftop at the Flower Capital beside his mum, closed his eyes, and focused. Ace felt for Law's magic. He wouldn't recognise Sanji's sadly, he hadn't seen it in action before, but Law's he knew like the back of his hand.

He had grown up with him after all.

They knew each others magic.

It took a good few minutes to find it within the crowd of people, but he did. It was faint and weak, almost all used up, much to Ace's concern. The bigger concern was the two powerful hakis Ace could also feel with Law, and another weaker one.

That was probably Sanji, as drained and exhausted as Law was.

“Law is this way,” Ace said. “But there are two powerful hakis with him.”

“Yeah, I feel it,” Mum said. “It's Doflamingo and King. We'll need to be careful with King, his kind eat magic.”

“Eat magic?” Ace's jaw dropped. “How?”

Mum shrugged. “I have no idea, but while Ace and I distract King and Doflamingo, Ikkaku, you're going to free Law and Sanji and get them out.”

Ikkaku nodded. “Alright, if you can keep those two off my back that would be appreciated.”

“Will do. We ambushing or we going to try negotiate first?” Ace asked, grinning when his mum snorted.

“Since when do we negotiate?”

Ace laughed. “Let's break in and smash them up then.”

“Y'know this should be terrifying, but it is oddly comforting to know I have two big pirates backing me up,” Ikkaku admitted.

“Once you've got them get them outta there,” Mum said, then eyed Ace. “Also don't let King get a hold of you, Ace, remember that he'll eat your magic and drain you of all your energy.”

Ace nodded. “I'll go after Doflamingo.”

Mum drew her swords and grinned wolfishly. “This is going to be fun.”

.::.

Ikkaku had no idea how Ace or Rouge found this fun, but Ikkaku was relieved to know that Law and Sanji were in the temple with the witch meeting room, rather than being held with Kaido in Onigashima. That would have been even more terrifying for them to break into.

She would have done it for Law, but she would have been pissing herself the entire time doing it.

Thankfully it seemed like only King and Doflamingo were in the temple. Okay, yes, it was being guarded by a lot of Kaido's minions, but they all collapsed when Rouge used her Conqueror's Haki to knock them out cold. Ikkaku remained hidden in the shadows, as Ace cut himself on the shrine in the shape of a large grimoire, and waited quietly as Ace and Rouge sauntered in.

They actually sauntered.

They were insane.

“Well it looks like we're interrupting quite the party,” Rouge said.

“Portgas D. Rouge, Portgas D. Ace.” King was huge, massive even, and towered over the pair, as did Doflamingo.

But neither of them seemed to care.

“We're here for a few siblings of ours,” Rouge said. “We'll be taking them and going.”

“Fufufufufu, and why not join us in here?” Doflamingo smirked.

“No thanks.” Ace grinned, and waved his hand.

A tunnel of water came tearing out of the water fountain Ikkaku swore was in front of the building, swallowing up both Doflamingo and King. The tunnel tossed them both outside, and Rouge and Ace ran back out to meet them in the streets.

They weren't going to bother being stealthy then...

Dammit, but Kin'emon's plans meant nothing in comparison to saving her Captain. Ikkaku ran inside, and she cursed when she saw Law unconscious, chained with seastone to his podium. She lightly tapped his face, trying to wake him up.

“Law, you have to wake up!” Ikkaku hissed, working on the chains, picking at the locks, but seastone was a pain in the ass to pick at the best of times.

The explosions outside were doing nothing for her nerves either.

Law groaned, stirring, and she was so relieved when his eyes began to open. “Ikkaku...?” Law shook his head slowly, trying to wake himself back up. “What are you doing here...?”

“Breaking you out. I don't have much time though,” Ikkaku said, getting one hand free. “Rouge and Ace can't hold them off forever.”

Law startled awake at that. “Ace?”

Ikkaku grinned. “You missed a lot, Captain.”

She finally got both hands free, and headed for Sanji, while Law shakily stood up, clinging to his podium.

“Sanji, wake up-” She barely needed to speak when Sanji startled awake.

“A lady is calling me!” Sanji gasped, sitting up straight, then his eyes literally turned into hearts. “Ikkaku-chan! It's so good to see you!”

Ikkaku couldn't help but laugh at that as she worked on the shackles. These ones were far earlier, just normal cuffs thankfully.

“I'm glad it's that easy to wake you up,” Ikkaku chuckled, as she released the shackles.

Sanji stood up too, just as shaky as Law, but he stretched himself out, rubbing his wrists gently.

“You said Ace was here?” Law frowned at her.

“Ace?” Sanji startled. “But how?”

“Rouge, Thatch and Sabo rescued him from Mariejois during Reverie,” Ikkaku said. “A lot happened, but that's not something we can afford to worry about right now. They're distracting Doflamingo and King.”

The building shook when another loud explosion went off. Fuck, they must be wrecking the streets right now...

Law cursed. “They didn't even bother to hide their presence.”

“We did explain what we were doing here, but I don't think either of them really cared that much,” Ikkaku admitted. “Well Ace said it was great, and he needed to meet up with a few friends, but we needed to get you and Sanji back first.”

“I don't think I have the energy to teleport us out,” Law admitted.

“What were they even having you doing?” Ikkaku asked, even as Sanji looked over the podiums closet to him, but he looked relieved instead of worried, so that was a good sign.

They quickly made their way out, sneaking along the shadows as they headed for the exit.

“They were using us to find other witches,” Sanji said. “King could use our magic somehow with the blood on the floor, or because he ate it, I'm still not sure how that works.”

Law threw them both a helpless shrug.

“And it would say the named of where a witch was,” Sanji said regretfully. “We outed Red Haired Shank's witch.”

“He has a witch?” Ikkaku startled.

“Apparently so,” Law sighed.

They all winced at the utter destruction in the street. Debris laid everywhere, buildings were collapsed, and there were lots of flames. Ikkaku jumped down the stairs, Law and Sanji following her, as a fireball sent Doflamingo crashing into the building across the street. Ace landed in between them and Doflamingo, grinning.

“I know Luffy and Law already bet you up, but I always wanted to get a few hits in myself for everything you did to Law,” Ace said, cracking his knuckles.

“Fufufufufu, you might be a New World Pirate, but you haven't sailed the seas in quite some time, Fire Fist,” Doflamingo chuckled as he walked out the ruined shop, grinning wickedly. “But first, Law, you aren't going anywhere-”

Ikkaku saw the strings head straight for them, but gasped when they were all turned to ice and shattered to pieces, crumbling to the ground.

Ace's grin widened as Doflamingo's fell.

“I didn't spend all my time relaxing. I practised my clan's magic,” Ace said, snowflakes beginning to fall from the skies as the wind began to pick up. “I'm more than just a pirate or a devil fruit user.”

The wind twisted, harder and faster, and Ikkaku had to hold her hair back from her face as the wind turned into a whirlwind, then grew larger and larger until it was a tornado heading straight for Doflamingo.

“I'm a witch.”

Sanji's arm gently wrapped around her waist, and she saw he had grabbed Law too. “We've got to go,” Sanji insisted, his face worried, then he ran, climbing up into the sky.

Ikkaku gasped. She had forgotten that he could Sky Walk!

Then a bloody dinosaur came out of nowhere and tried to collide with them, only for Rouge to tackle it out of the sky with a victorious laugh. They went crashing back into the ground, Rouge standing on the dinosaur's back.

“That was King!” Law cursed.

“Are they all dinosaurs?” Sanji snarled.

“I don't know, but Kaido certainly seems to have a theme going here,” Ikkaku complained. “Aren't Big Mom's kids the same? They are all food themed, right?”

“Yeah, unfortunately,” Sanji sighed. “Did Rouge-san and Ace say where we would meet up?”

“We'll reunite with my crew,” Ikkaku said. “Ace and Rouge know where they are.”

“Are they safe?” Law asked.

“Yeah, they're all good. We've treated their wounds, and Usopp and Franky's too,” Ikkaku added in when she saw Sanji's worried look. “Brook and Robin were still recovering from having their magic taken, but they might be awake now if you both are.”

“Poor Robin-chan,” Sanji whined.

“How long where we captured for?” Law asked.

“Three days. I treated Nami's group then, then the Heart Pirates headed out-”

“Headed out?” Sanji raised a brow.

“Someone has been leaking information, and Shinobu still blames us,” Ikkaku scoffed. “We weren't sticking around. Anyway, we've got two days until the big battle.”

“Two days...” Sanji muttered. “Then let's reunite with our crews and get ready.”

“Yeah, our crew is very excited to have our Captain back home.” Ikkaku grinned. “We missed you.”

“I missed you all too,” Law offered, chuckling, much to her glee.

Chapter Text

It had taken a good bit of teleporting away to get rid of King and Doflamingo, but Ace and mum managed it. It took them almost half an hour to reunite with them again, but it was well worth it to keep Doflamingo and King off their tracks. Ace grinned. He found the Heart Pirates all pretty much trying to cling to Law, who looked bemused, but defeated. He hadn't even tried to escape them, at least at first, but it had been quite a good few minutes now. The sight made Ace laugh. Mum looked just as amused, while Sanji grinned.

“You comfy, Law?” Ace asked.

“I'm being squashed!” Law protested, trying to squirm free now, but the Heart literally had him surrounded, and they were all trying to hug him, Bepo being the first to grab him.

Law had nowhere to go, the poor soul, he would suffer their love.

Ace had already suffered his time with the Whitebeards after all. He knew Luffy would be next.

Tama and Yamato too, he needed to check on them, it was another reason why he had left Sphinx so quickly, despite being 'grounded'. Ace did feel a bit guilty about worrying them so soon, but he felt more guilty that he hadn't grabbed Izou and brought him here.

Hopefully he'd catch up...?

“I'm going to go reunite with my crew too,” Sanji said. “I'll tell them you're safe, alright, Traffy?”

“Thanks, I appreciate it,” Law said.

“Don't tell Luffy that we're here yet,” Ace pleaded.

Sanji blinked. “Really?”

Mum laughed. “Yeah, we wanna see him shit himself!”

Ace threw her an amused smile, but it softened back into a frown. “If I know anything about Luffy he'll be distracted the entire time about what happened to me if I explain any of it. I know a lot of the time he shrugs things off easily, but even I know when he hears I've been under someone's control for two years he'll freak out. And we don't know what happened to Sabo exactly after we separated... and then...” Ace shook his head. “A lot happened, and he can't afford a distraction right now, none of you can.”

Sanji grimaced. “I understand...”

“I'll tell him everything after the battle,” Ace said. “But for now, it's best he just focuses on kicking Kaido's ass.”

Ace really didn't want to tell the Straw Hats about what happened to Vivi's dad. Mum threw him a grim look too, while Ace sat down on a boulder, watching Sanji leave.

But not before Ikkaku made Sanji swear not to tell anyone where the Heart Pirates where currently. He had grown heart eyed at that of course, and swore himself to 'her cause' not to. Ace couldn't help but chuckle at that, even as mum sat down next to him.

“You sure you want to be the one to tell Luffy?” Mum asked.

Ace nodded. “Yeah. He needs to know. I can't tell him everything of course, I still can't say the shadow's name, but I can at least tell him some of the events at Reverie. Law too of course.” Law threw a grin over his shoulder. “Once he escapes.”

“Screw you, Ace-ya.”

Ace laughed, but then looked up at the sky, and sighed heavily. “I guess I can finally keep my promise to Yamato and Tama.”

Mum's hand landed on his hair, ruffling it. “We've got this.”

Ace grinned. “Just a shame Sabo isn't here to join in on the fight. We'd have all of us finally together again.” Ace grimaced. “Although considering the state he was in after what happened I doubt he'd be much help here.”

“Yeah, he's probably still recovering,” Mum agreed.

“I can't...” Ace sighed. “If that ever happens again... Sabo and Thatch were in so much danger trying to save me... you were too, but at least you can't be killed...”

“I could easily make a Brook joke right now.” Mum crossed her arms. “But I won't. Ace; Sabo and Thatch already drummed it into your head, we wanted to come and find you. We wanted you to be free. We refused to say goodbye to you.”

“And yet I think this is only the beginning of the end,” Ace said, his brow furrowed. “Now that he's lost one of his witches again I don't think he's going to sit still. He's going to go after us for real now, and I don't think he'll leave the Marines to sort it all out.”

“He did send two God Knights after Buggy...” Mum murmured.

“Exactly.” Ace frowned. “He's not playing it entirely quiet anymore. I think... no... I fear that he's going to remind the world that he existed again and that he won't take no for an answer.”

Mum breathed in deeply and deflated. “Roger had a lot to say when that shadow threw me back into the afterlife.”

Ace scoffed. “I bet.”

“We'll just have to be patient, Ace, and see if this world can be free,” Mum said softly. “There is hope.”

Ace grinned. “Of course there is. We're all still here right? That's got to count for something.”

Mum laughed, but it was wet and shaky. “I missed you.”

“I missed you too.” Ace smiled, and pressed a kiss to her cheek. “I'm happy to be back home again.”

He was excited to see Luffy again too.

The last time he had seen Luffy had been in Marineford, after Akainu's fist had torn through Luffy's chest.

He never wanted that to be his last memory of Luffy. Ace couldn't stand it. He could still hear Luffy's pained scream.

Mum's hand took his own, cutting off his thoughts. “We'll see him soon.”

“I can't wait.” Ace smiled shakily.

.::.

Rouge had to admit, it was nostalgic seeing three pirate Captains all posturing to each other. It reminded her of Roger, Eddy and herself. The seas were wild today, and the samurai had all been stranded on a fishing boat in the middle of the seas, about the be blasted to smithereens by Kaido's minions. Law had rescued them from the ocean, while Eustass Kidd and Luffy fired on the ship from the side, sailing over to line up with the Polar Tang. Rouge made sure to remain hidden in the shadows with Ace for now. No need to spoil the kids fun after all.

“It's a shame I didn't bring my Striker,” Ace pouted. “I could have just set sail and blasted all those ships all with a fire fist.”

Rouge chuckled. Those three ships of Kaido's would not stand a chance.

But the real curiosity was Kin'emon's traitor problem. Kanjuro was the one, huh? And he had Momonosuke. Rouge frowned. Oden would throw a fit if he knew about this.

What was really concerning though was that Big Mom and Kaido were forming an alliance. Rouge did step out of the shadows at that and walked up to Law.

“That's going to be a pain in the ass,” Rouge grumbled.

“Shadow lady!” Luffy greeted brightly, waving. “Hey!”

“Hi, Luffy!” Rouge grinned. “I've got a surprise for you!”

“You do?” Luffy beamed. “Let's me see! Let me see!”

“Rahahahaha, not just yet! I'll show you when we land,” Rouge laughed. “But first you kids better clear a way for your samurai friends.”

The Kaido pirates were still jeering over the pirate alliance of course. All gleeful and stupid. It made her chuckle when the kids all took offence to that.

“Why are you flunkies all acting high and mighty?” Luffy bristled. “I've heard enough! Everyone, stand back!”

“You stand back, idiot!” Law snapped, raising his fingers for a room.

“Don't you two dare get in my way!” Eustass snarled.

“First come first served!” Luffy yelled, throwing his arm across the sea, springing forward.

“Bastard!” Eustass yelled, pulling himself over with some metal bullshit Rouge did not understand at all.

Law smirked and summoned his room, then disappeared, landing a split second before the others. Luffy's and Eustass' screams made Rouge cackle.

“You can't compete against my room in the rain,” Law said.

“That power is unfair!” Luffy complained.

“You're not going over there, Rouge-san?” Dogstorm asked. “You could easily tear all those ships apart.”

“I'm surprised you remember me,” Rouge chuckled. “That was a long time ago. You were so small back then.”

“It's hard to forget someone like you,” Dogstorm admitted, a little sheepish. “You were terrifying.”

“What did you do, Mum?” Ace asked warily.

Rouge sniggered. “I freaked Oden out.”

“EH?!” the samurai all yelped.

Rouge grinned as the middle ship was torn apart by three blurs, said three blurs arguing over who were now actually destroyed the ship on some broken piece of ship floating on the seas.

Rouge grinned wolfishly. “Hey!” she yelled, gaining their attention. “Good teamwork, you three!”

“ARE YOU BLIND, WOMAN?” Eustass yelled. “WHAT TEAMWORK? THAT WAS ALL ME!”

“LIKE HELL IT WAS, EUSTASS-YA!”

“YEAH, IT WAS ME, JAGGY!”

“That was evil, Mum,” Ace laughed as the kids started arguing again, even more heated now.

“Rahahahaha!”

Rouge blinked when she saw the blue haired guy sailing their way with his men on their ship. Kaido's men seemed to think he was an ally, but she felt no ill intension from him oddly enough. His anger was directed at Kaido's men. How strange. Zoro seemed worried about him too. Was he not an ally?

Oh, it turned out he was. He was a sneaky ally. How clever playing the part of a villain for twenty years, kinda like Kanjuro actually...

Rouge probably shouldn't mention that out loud. She might actually get stabbed, and she wouldn't blame the guy for it either.

It turned out the blue haired guy trusted way too much though, or at least had way too much faith in Kin'emon, because he thought the accidental port switch had all been apart of Kin'emon's plan. Kin'emon who looked like he was about to shit himself.

Rouge cackled.

She cursed though when Kanjuro flew by with the kid. Usopp tried to shoot the bird down, but Kanjuro blocked the blow, then summoned some ink clouds, as Sanji raced through the sky, trying to get to the kid too. He was forced to retreat back down, taking shelter back on the Sunny when the heavy ink clouds rained down arrows upon them all.

Rouge readied a sword swing, and cut through the arrows, but the sword swing continued up into the clouds, ripping through them, and she grinned when Kanjuro screamed.

His entire shoulder had been cut through.

“Take that, bitch!” Rouge chuckled, then cursed when more arrows poured down from the sky.

“FIRE FIST!” Ace's flames tore through the sky, and she gasped, realising he had left the Polar Tang and went up into the air.

“ACE?!” Luffy yelled, his eyes bulging, jaw hanging open.

“...He doesn't even need to yell his attacks anymore...” Rouge muttered. “Did he forget he doesn't have a devil fruit?”

The flames burned away the ink clouds, but they were too late to go after Momonosuke again. Kanjuro had taken him too far out of reach with that blasted bird. If Rouge or Zoro tried to strike them down now, Momonosuke would drown in the seas.

“CAN YOU ALL HEAR ME?!” Momonosuke yelled. “DO NOT WORRY ABOUT ME! THAT IS WHAT THE ENEMY WANTS YOU TO DO! I WILL FIND A WAY TO ESCAPE ON MY OWN, JUST FOCUS ON DESTROYING KAIDO AND OROCHI! PROTECT WANO!”

What a brave kid, even if Luffy decided to bully him after saying that anyway. The ink skies were all clear now though thankfully, as Ace dropped back down on the the Polar Tang.

“ACE!” Luffy's scream tore through the sky, as a rubber arm landed on the railing of the Polar Tang.

Ace braced himself.

Good idea.

Luffy launched through the skies, slamming into Ace full force, his arms and legs both wrapping around Ace tightly. Luffy who was full on sobbing as Ace laughed as he hugged Luffy back. Rouge was impressed that Ace managed to keep his footing, and not damage the Polar Tang by doing so.

“I thought you were meant to be an adult now, Luffy?” Ace grinned. “What's up with the tears?”

“I hope you asked permission to board from Law,” Rouge chided gently, ruffling Luffy's damp hair. “You need to mind your manners with pirate ships, least they take offence.”

Law appeared back on Polar Tang with a quick shambles. “He did.” Law smirked.

“Luffy-dono?” an Izou lookalike startled. “Who is this man?”

Ace bowed low to them, or well as best as he could with Luffy clinging to him. “It's good to meet you all. I'm Portgas D. Ace. Luffy's older brother.” Ace grinned. “I hope he hasn't been causing you any trouble.”

“Oh! Luffy's older brother. It's good to meet you!” Kin'emon bowed too, as did the samurai.

Luffy grinned as he released Ace. “You've got to meet my crew!” Luffy beamed. “They are amazing! C'mon, let's go!”

Rouge watched Luffy's arm wrap around Ace's waist, the other now on the Sunny's railings, and the pair of them were yanked forward, and both landed on their feet on the Sunny. Rouge couldn't help but soften at the sight.

Her boys were sure growing up fast.

Law nudged her arm. “Happy?” he asked quietly.

“Very.” Rouge leaned her head against his shoulder. “I love you boys so much.”

Law smirked. “You're not going to love us as much after this mess.”

“Rahahahaha, are you kidding? This is prime entertainment! Eddy and Roger used to drag me into trouble like this all the time.” Rouge grinned.

She missed this so much.

Chapter Text

Luffy had been introducing Ace to his entire crew, and Ace had to admit, he was very impressed. He greeted them all warmly and thanked them for sticking by Luffy, before greeting Robin, Brook and Sanji properly as fellow witches.

“Yohohohoho, I was hoping we'd get the proper greetings in too,” Brook said. “It is strange not doing that immediately, brother.”

“Yeah, but I didn't want to interrupt Luffy,” Ace admitted. “And it was cool getting to meet everyone. You all sound amazing! And such big dreams too.” He couldn't help but grin. “You are no doubt Luffy's crew. That's for sure.”

“How many witches do you know, Luffy?” Nami groaned.

“Shishishishi!”

“It is strange that we are all meeting around you,” Robin mused. “You seem to be the centre point for something strange.”

Luffy shrugged. “I only know a few.”

“Ace, Law, Sanji, Vivi, Kureha, Robin, Brook, Paulie, Boa Hancock, Sharlary,” Nami began to list off. “That's already ten witches!”

Ace didn't mention Buggy. Obviously the Straw Hats didn't know about him then. He knew Buggy would not appreciate a mention at all. He'd start ranting, maybe explode something, and while it would be funny, Ace didn't want to betray his trust like that.

“Thanks for the rescue earlier, by the way,” Sanji said. “I appreciated it.”

“No problem.” Ace grinned. “I'm glad Doflamingo and King couldn't make you two track us all down. That would have sucked.”

Zoro scowled. “Love cook getting kidnapped again. Of course.”

Sanji scowled back. “At least I'm important enough to have people after me, marimo.”

“What the hell does that mean?”

“Can you not understand through that green head of yours?”

Ace laughed.

“Eh? It was Ace who rescued you both?” Luffy whined. “Why didn't you tell me earlier?”

“I asked Sanji not too,” Ace said. “I didn't want you to be distracted before the big battle.”

“That's understandable, you have been captured for two years,” Robin mused. “How did you escape Mariejois?”

“It's a long story, but to put it briefly for now, mum, Thatch and Sabo with a few of Sabo's head Revolutionaries attacked Reveire and broke me out along with a lot of slaves.”

“EHHHH?!” All the Straw Hats screeched.

“Attacked Mariejois?” Chopper's jaw dropped.

“I thought they were just going to sneak in!” Nami cried out.

“I'll tell you all about it after the battle,” Ace said. “But right now I'm more worried about this alliance between Big Mom and Kaido.” Ace frowned, glaring out at the last of Kaido's ships. “And that ship now firing at us... what the hell?”

“Those are some long ranged cannons!” Usopp cried out.

“They'll take out the samurai fast at this rate,” Zoro grunted.

Ace saw his mum step up on top of the railing of Law's ship, readying a stance with her sword arching back. She was going to take it out for them then. That was great-

He paused when she aborted motion and grinned just as a familiar haki tickled at Ace's senses. Ace beamed when he heard 'Spear Wave' and laughed.

“Jinbei!” Ace grinned.

“Jinbei?” Luffy perked up.

“Heh, so he finally made it.” Zoro smirked.

“Made it?” Ace blinked.

“Shishishishi, he's joining our crew!”

“EH?!” Ace yelped. “He wouldn't even join Pops!”

“Begging your pardon!” Jinbei called out.

Ace heard Law and Kidd startle at the fact that Jinbei was joining Luffy's crew too, but he didn't blame them. Jinbei was a very big time pirate after all. It was unusual for pirates with his kind of background to join one of the younger crews sailing about.

“Hey, Lu', if you're toasting him in now I'm going to head off,” Ace said quietly, and he noticed Zoro, Sanji and Robin all glance his way. Good observation skills there then. “It's rude to sit on another pirate crews toast when they are introducing someone into the crew.”

“It is?” Luffy blinked.

“Ace-san!” Jinbei called out, surprising him.

“Hey,” Ace greeted warmly. “Long time no see.”

“I'm glad you are safe and have escaped Mariejois. I was worried we would never see you again, old friend.”

“Old friend?” Nami blinked. “You two know each other?”

Ace and Jinbei shared a grin.

“We battled for three days and three nights,” Ace laughed.

“EH?!”

“My crew hated it, but mum thought it was great. Pops did too, but Marco nearly lost his mind,” Ace chuckled. “Now you lot go have fun with your toast. I'll chat later.”

“Aww...” Luffy deflated. “You've been captured for two years and even before that I didn't get to see you because of Blackbeard!”

Ace softened and ruffled his hair. “You've grown up well, Luffy.”

Luffy blinked, then grinned. “You think?”

“You gathered an amazing crew and have been leading them into constant battles. Sure, you've probably been driving Law crazy while doing so, but I saw the word on Doflamingo.” Ace grinned. “Good job beating his ass after everything he's done.”

Luffy nodded. “Of course! We promised to beat him up for upsetting Traffy.”

Ace smiled warmly. “I'm glad I get to see you again. We'll talk properly after the battle, alright?”

Luffy frowned, but then grinned. “Alright! Let's kick Kaido's and Big Mom's asses quickly then. Shishishishi!”

Ace smiled, then disappeared into a bolt of lightning, crashing back down on Law's ship.

“Where is Luffy-ya going?” Law groaned.

“I think he's off to find alcohol so they can toast Jinbei into the crew,” Ace said.

“I can't believe he actually got Jinbei into the Straw Hats of all people,” Law sighed, shaking his head. “I know they became friends during our fight in Marineford, but jeez.”

“If you didn't already have a crew he'd be dragging you in too,” Ace teased.

Law groaned in disgust. “My nightmare. Anyway I came up with a new plan, that Kin'emon decided to take credit for.” Law rolled his eyes. “We're going to let Luffy-ya and Eustass-ya play distraction by letting them do their usual and diving into the fighting. The others will split off into two groups and circle around, while I take this lot around the back and use my room to teleport them in from behind.”

“Alright, we'll go with you then if that's alright?” Ace tilted his head.

“Of course.”

“And maybe this time I'll get a chance to land a good few hits on Doflamingo.” Ace grinned.

“I'm still worried that he's here. He and King used Sanji-ya and I to find other witches,” Law grumbled. “They have to be planning something specific if they wish to find all of us. The last time all the witches were together was apparently during the Void Century.”

“I might have found something useful that could give us more answers,” Ace offered. “My sanctuary-”

“You found yours too?” Law blinked.

“Eh? It wasn't just me!” Ace startled, then laughed. “Now I feel a little less special. Mum found it not too long ago.”

“It was the same for me, with the exception of Rouge. I'll tell you about it properly later,” Law said. “Right now we better get going. Onigashima awaits us.”

Ace nodded. “Yeah, I have an old friend I need to meet up with there. I hope Yamato is alright. I haven't seen him in years.”

“Yamato?” Law blinked.

“Yeah, Kaido's son.”

“EH?!” The samurai wailed.

Ace grinned. “Yeah, while we head over to Onigashima, I'll tell you all about him!”

“Rahahahaha, he is an interesting kid for sure!” Mum laughed.

“I'm excited to see him, and Tama too,” Ace said. “I'll need to track her down after the battle.”

“Ah, yeah, I almost forgot you know Tama,” Law muttered.

Ace beamed. “You met her?”

“Luffy has been taking care of her.”

Ace startled, and couldn't help but smile warmly at that. “That's a relief.” He softened. “She'll be eight right now...” He laughed. “Not enough time for her to become a proper kunoichi now sadly, so she'll be furious for me for not accepting her into my crew just yet.”

Mum chuckled. “I'm sure she'll be happy just to see you again, Ace.”

“I'll need to thank Luffy for keeping her safe after this,” Ace said. “But first, let's go kick Kaido's ass. I've been wanting to go do that for a long time now, and this time Pops can't stop me!”

“Pfft, he's probably on a ship sailing after you now,” Mum mocked.

“Don't jinx this for me!” Ace cried.

“Ace, honey, son of mine, I would not be surprised if there were Whitebeard Pirates chasing after us right now to give us a lecture for rushing off after you just came back,” Mum said.

Law rolled his eyes. “Idiot. You should have warned them you were going.”

“Oops?” Ace laughed sheepishly. “We left a note?”

Chapter Text

It was snowing by the time they made it to Onigashima. It had been a bumpy ride, but Law's crew got them there safely in the end. Penguin, Bepo, Shachi and Ikkaku had joined them as well, while the rest of his crew sank back into the ocean's depths to keep the Polar Tang safe. Probably a good idea. They couldn't just leave the Polar Tang docked here after all. It was too dangerous for the poor girl with those rough currents in the ocean. Rouge frowned at the two entrances, as Law grimaced.

“There are two entrances,” he muttered. “Kaido will definitely be up there.”

“Hey, why can't you treat me a bit more nicely?”

Rouge blinked and looked up, then winced as Ace whined.

“I'm in trouble...” Ace whispered.

“Beggars can't be choosers! I can't believe this was your 'fine idea' yoi!”

Holy shit they really were in trouble... It was the Mama Bird himself...

Cat Viper was dumped down in the snow in front of them, and Rouge saw Ace wince when both Thatch and Izo landed on the snow in front of Cat.

“PORTGAS D. ACE!” Thatch yelled.

“I'M SORRY!” Ace cried out, yelping when Thatch grabbed his jacket, shaking him roughly.

“YOU'RE GIVING ME GREY HAIRS, BOY! I JUST GOT RID OF DAVY JONES' MARK! DON'T MAKE ME TAKE ANOTHER!”

“Pops is going to kick your ass when you get back home yoi,” Marco said, landing down beside them, transforming his arms and legs back into human form to smack Ace roughly over the head, earning a wince. “You too, Rouge, you're both lucky I talked him down from coming here.”

“By sedating him...” Thatch muttered. “He drugged Pops' breakfast before we left so he couldn't follow...”

Rouge snorted. “That old geezer can't kick a football now, never mind my ass.”

“I'd handle you right now, Ace, for your recklessness, but you're lucky I saw a suspicious shadow earlier that I need to go check out yoi,” Marco scolded. “But that doesn't mean you're off the hook. I'm going to lecture you after this, then you'll get one from Pops on the way back home, then another when we get back home.”

“But Marco...” Ace whined, dragging out his name like a five year old.

Marco smirked. “Brat.”

Ace grinned. “You know it.”

“Izo, you're in charge of these two. I would say three, but then Rouge would complain that she's not even a Whitebeard Pirate and try start an argument about technicalities yoi.”

Rouge grinned wolfishly. He wasn't wrong about that, but Izo was pretty distracted at the moment too, reuniting with his sister after all this time. He did look up from her though and waved.

“Sure, sure,” he said, a little more dismissively.

“Wait, why am I not in charge?” Thatch pouted.

“Because you're as reckless as Ace!” Marco scowled.

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“You just got rid of that black mark off your hand after suffering from its effects for two years-”

“But it's gone now and I kept my promise!”

Ace laughed, patting Thatch's back. “You're as bad as me.”

“I DON'T WANT TO HEAR THAT FROM YOU, ACE!” Thatch snarled, shaking him again.

“Either way, behave you lot,” Marco ordered. “Don't be reckless, you three, Pops will be pissed off if any of you don't come back from this battle yoi.”

Izo grimaced. “That sounds like its directed at me.”

Marco scowled, then turned to Rouge. “You're in charge.”

“DON'T JUST TAKE MY LEADERSHIP AWAY!” Izo bristled. “YOU SAID SHE'S NOT EVEN A WHITEBEARD!”

“Rahahahahahaha!”

“I'll be back soon yoi!” Marco said, then flew off into the skies.

Law walked over to his crew mates. “We're heading inside.”

“We're not going to fight with them?” Bepo asked.

“I have my own goals here,” Law admitted. “Besides Doflamingo is running around. He needs to be dealt with.”

“Flutter your haki if you need me, Law,” Rouge said.

“Will do.”

“I need to go find Yamato,” Ace said.

“What is a Yamato?” Thatch blinked.

“My friend!”

Thatch sighed. “Then I guess big brother is coming along to keep an eye on you.”

Ace stuck out his tongue, then followed after Law.

“Izo, if you need help flutter your haki too,” Rouge said. “I'll come running to beat down Kaido.”

“Thank you, Rouge,” Izo said softly.

“Can she really beat Kaido?” Kiku whispered warily to Izo.

“It depends how much energy Ace has to give her,” Izo said.

“I can still do some damage!” Rouge protested. “Jerk!”

.::.

“I haven't seen Yamato on the screen,” Ace said as he and Thatch ran through the hallways. “He must be running around here somewhere though, especially if Kaido's about to execute Oden's kid. He'd never forgive me if I try to kick Kaido's ass without him.”

“I still don't get it. Kaido's son?” Thatch frowned.

“Yeah, he wants to follow Oden's will. He found his journal as a child and it's pretty much Yamato's bible,” Ace explained. “I wonder if mum went to search for him on her own?”

Thatch choked just as an explosion echoed throughout the base. It was shaking hard, but they both didn't really care about that. No, the reason Thatch choked was because mum had landed on Momonosuke's execution platform. Nobody else had spotted her yet, thank the seas, but she was being very reckless here and that was coming from him!

“Oh hey, who is the hottie with your brother?” Thatch grinned.

Ace followed his gaze and grinned at the screen. “Yamato! Finally!”

“Eh? But that's a woman!”

“When he took on Oden's will he said he would become a man to be more like Oden.” Ace shrugged. “I didn't question it.”

“What kind of logic is that?!” Thatch wailed. “I'd love to become as strong as Marco, but that doesn't mean I want to turn into a flying blue chicken!”

Ace laughed. “C'mon, let's go join in. All the samurai are revealing themselves too now that Kaido's been hit. It looks like Law's plan worked.”

“That was Trafalgar Law's plan?”

“Yeah, but everyone thinks it was Kin'emon's. Law's letting him go with it for now.” Ace shrugged.

“That Law is a menace,” Thatch laughed. “You're not upset he used Luffy as bait?”

“Nope. I would probably have been one of the 'idiots' in Law's plan too if I had been with Luffy and Eustass Kidd,” Ace admitted.

“Sounds about right.”

Ace stuck out his tongue. “I bet you'd be right along with us.”

“I can be sneaky when I want to!”

“You challenged Teach when he was with me and his entire crew while you were alone,” Ace said dryly.

“I was with your mum.”

Ace snorted. “She wasn't even with you when you yelled at him.”

“Technicalities.” Thatch waved a dismissive hand. “She was in the area.”

.::.

Rouge frowned. “They didn't manage to land a good blow even despite their attack. That's a shame. Kaido was always a pain in the ass to fight though.”

Queen, King and Jack all whirled around to face her, much to her amusement.

“P-P-PORTGAS D. ROUGE?!” Queen screamed into his microphone.

Rouge grinned wolfishly. “You kiddos have all grown up.” She drew both her swords, slowly, letting them all hear the sound of steel ringing in the air. “It's been so much fun watching you all play, but I really want to soak my swords in blood now.”

“OH SHIT-” Queen screamed, but Rouge was faster, and her swords cut through King, Queen and Jack all at the same time.

It wasn't anywhere near a finishing blow, but it would damn well hurt the little shits.

“ROUGE!” King snarled, lunging for his sword, despite his bleeding chest, but she booted his sword off the balcony.

“You shouldn't have let Izo disarm you!” Rouge laughed, throwing down another sword strike, tearing through his shoulder, earning a pained snarl as she landed on the railings of the balcony. “C'mon, kids. I feel so much excitement in the air. This is just like old times with Eddy and Roger.” She grinned hungrily. “I want to get my blood pumping, but if you lot can't do it for me, then I guess I better go stick my swords in Kaido.”

Meanwhile one of the little shits down below could get Oden's battered kid on the execution stand away to safety while she distracted these three. The kid being beaten and bruised so badly boiled her blood, but she reigned in that anger for now.

Rouge was merely the distraction here.

“Why did you come here, Straw Hat?” Linlin yelled down below on the lower levels. “Don't tell jokes about beating Kaido!”

“No, that's not it!” Luffy protested.

Rouge grinned wolfishly.

“You, Kaido, Doflamingo, the officers, Orochi, and all of your subordinates!” Luffy snarled. “I'm here to kick all your asses!”

“Rahahahaha, that's my Luffy!” Rouge laughed at King's, Queen's and Jack's horrified faces.

“IT'S GONNA BE AN ALL OUT WAR!” Luffy bellowed.

“Mamamama, don't get ahead of yourself!” Linlin mocked. “You have what? A few hundred men?”

“Muhahahahaa, what a dope!” Queen laughed.

Rouge grinned sharply. “You all are just as dumb as each other, aren't you?”

King growled. “What did you do, Hibiscus?”

“I did nothing. It was the kids who planned this out.” Rouge chuckled darkly. “You underestimated them. You all thought you were the big bads of this world, with your fancy titles and big armies. But you didn't see the rats gathering. You didn't see the amount of shit they were about to leave in your house.”

Ring, ring, ring. Ring, ring, ring.

Rouge grinned. “You better answer that, Queen.”

Queen raised a brow at her, but obeyed.

“IT'S AN EMERGENCY! THOUSANDS OF TROOPS ARE ENTERING FROM THE BACK!”

“WHAT?!” Queen screeched.

“RAHAHAHAHAHA!” Rouge cackled.

But the curious one was that Marco was fighting alongside Perospero.

“Marco and Perospero teamed up?” Queen growled. “What the hell is going on?”

He grabbed his microphone again at the screens lit up. “Every drunken bastard across Onigashima, listen up! The party is over! Grab you wea- GAH!”

Rouge struck him down from behind, splattering blood all over the screen. “You turned your back to me. Not a good idea.”

King nor Jack were watching his back either. Jack had remained out of the way, watching her cautiously, while King flew off to find his sword.

None of these losers gave two shits about each other, did they?

“Wororororo! I heard you, Straw Hat!” Kaido flew out of the hole in the ground in dragon form. “I ACCEPT YOUR CHALLENGE! I'll show you the greatest army in the world!”

“Oi, Kaido! Your greatest army is shit!” Rouge heckled. “Jack is pissing himself, Queen's probably dying, and I launched King's sword!”

“ROUGE?!” Kaido yelled.

“LONG TIME NO SEE, JACKASS!”

“I'M BUSY, WOMAN! WE'LL DRINK LATER!”

Rouge pouted. “So rude! Not even one drink right now? I have plenty of insults for you, scales!”

“YOU'RE DRINKING BUDDIES?!” a samurai in the crowd yelled, some tiny blue haired guy, Rouge didn't know. She didn't really care either.

“I have plenty for you too, ghost, but again, I'm busy!” Kaido lowered his head to the balcony. “I can't believe you died to Marines by the way, how pathetic!”

“Go fuck yourself. Not all of us are immortal, asshole!” Rouge huffed. “I'll come beat your ass when the samurai are done with you.”

“Wororororo, bring it on!” Kaido grinned, then flew up, the samurai all clinging to his back.

“KIN'EMON! I'LL CATCH UP LATER!” Luffy yelled.

“MUCH APPRECIATED!” Kin'emon smiled.

Rouge eyed Jack who was backing up towards the door, trying to remain quiet, but her sword plunged into the wall beside his head, and she grinned hungrily.

“Where do you think you're going?” Rouge asked darkly. “You should stick around for the party. I hear it's going to be to die for.”