Chapter Text

Law found himself drifting back and forth into consciousness as he lay on the small boat adrift at sea, completely alone. He wasn’t normally alone in this boat; in fact, it was the first time he was now that Cora-san had… had…

I love you Law

He closed his eyes tighter trying to stop the tears from flowing but there was no point. It felt like a part of him that he had just gotten back had been ripped out of him again. Law wondered briefly through the grief if he would ever be whole?

When he had gotten in the boat in the beginning, he had tried to use his fruit to get some of the lead out. He wasn’t incredibly successful, as there was only an old nail available to scrape it out and he wasn't used to his powers, but he did manage to get some of it out of his body before the exhaustion took over. That would have to do for now, at least he would stay alive for a bit longer. He knew falling asleep at sea was a mistake, especially since he was an omega.

The sea wasn’t a safe place in general, least of all for a lone, currently helpless and sick, omega. Still there wasn’t much he could do about it though. He felt the darkness start to claim him, but it was weird it almost felt like he was being lifted up. He could still feel something below him so it must have just been his imagination. Even if it wasn’t he could no longer force his small body to stay awake.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Crocodile was pissed off as he was pacing across the deck of a small boat he had chartered. There was a bare bones crew, just him and a few sailors he paid to be quiet and navigate him around. He had been in the North to recruit some more associates to join Baroque works when he got the call.

It wasn’t the call itself that was pissing him off, more the fact that he had actually responded to it. That damn Rosinante had called him begging for his help stealing the ope-ope fruit and for some reason he found himself listening to his old… friend? Yeah, that was probably the safest thing to call him, well he listened to him talk about this young omega boy he had saved and about his sickness and his pain in the ass brother (Crocodile’s words) then Croc broke down and agreed to help. Provided that Rosi would leave his ridiculous marine position and come and join him. As a now warlord he could keep them both safe, and he definitely didn’t have any alternative motivations in wanting that tall and handsome man back by his side, none at all. 

He felt his heart sink when he saw the lone figure in the bottom of the rowboat. Judging by his spotted hat and face he knew this had to be the one he was talking about but where was Rosi? It wasn’t like the man was hard to miss.

Croc reached out with his powers enveloping the kid in sand before bringing him up onto the deck. He purposely angled his sand to keep prying eyes away. The last thing he needed was to cause a panic. The kid himself was light, not to mention smaller than a 13-year-old should be. It briefly reminded him of his own childhood before he pushed those feelings deep, deep back down where they belonged.

The last thing he needed was to grow attached to some stray child. He left him in his room, there was a spare cot in there, and walked back out onto the deck. He could see one of the sailors sniffing the air a bit, stupid alphas. Croc was next to him in a blink.

“No one goes near the kid. If you do, I will kill you.” Judging by the way the man flinched and stood up straighter Crocodile could tell he knew he wasn’t bluffing. Besides he would just have to find that dumb oaf and everything would be alright.

As he set foot on the winter island he cursed slightly at the cold. He easily preferred the warm climate of Alabasta to this type of frozen tundra. He reached out with his sand, thankfully it had stopped snowing, so it made his job easier. Unfortunately, when he located what he was looking for it was not what he expected. 

He continued walking until he came face to face with the cold and slightly snow-covered body of Donquixote Rosinante. 

Well shit. He thought, taking a drag on his cigar. He felt a small pang in his heart, but he was too old and jaded to let it show. What in the hell was he going to do now? He had that kid on board his ship and he would wake up soon and without Rosi there, he would probably freak out. Croc was very sure that he would not be the best person for this particular job. Hell, he had left his own child after he was born, it would be foolish to just pick up a stray one now. He used his sand to further bury the fallen man then he walked back to the boat. He tried to ignore the fact that he had taken that stupid hat off of him for some reason.

Maybe he should just get rid of the kid? He could just leave him in a neighboring town to fend for himself. Swallow island wasn’t far from here and it was a calm place, not a lot of pirate activity. The kid was an omega though, would it be right to just leave a newly presented omega alone in a town like that? Had he really become that heartless? He decided that he wasn’t sure and put those thoughts on the backburner. 

This whole situation was a mess, he had gotten into it because of the potential resources he had to gain, and now he was left here stuck with some sick child and no Rosi.

He stayed on deck for a moment longer taking a drag off of his cigar. It didn’t matter he would figure it out, he had other business to attend to anyway. He ordered his men to continue on with their journey before making his way below deck. He supposed it was time to find out exactly what kind of person he was dealing with. Knowing Rosi he would probably be some shy soft-spoken kid.

“Who the fuck are you!?” The kid asked as he opened the door. Crocodile looked at him amused as he stood behind his desk, a letter opener held in front of him. He had to give the kid credit it was probably the best weapon in the room, even if it wouldn’t work on him. Yeah, this kid was going to be a headache.

“Calm down brat, I am not going to kill you or anything right now.” This didn’t seem to calm him down and Croc had to admit calming down anyone, least of all a scared child was not really in his wheelhouse.

Before he could do much the kid charged at him stabbing the letter opener into his arm. That little asshole, it didn’t hurt but it was the principle of the thing. He used his sand to throw him back holding him against the wall.

“Your outmatched kid.” He said smirking cockily at him. The kid just struggled fruitlessly against him, his fiery eyes never leaving him. Maybe he wouldn’t be so useless after all. “Rosinante called me to help.”

He could feel the other stop struggling against him and instead of eyes full of fear and anger he saw confusion and some other emotion flash in his eyes.

“Cora-san did?” It sounded like he was going to believe him but then he was back to struggling. “Yeah right! Why should I believe you!?”

Croc just sighed, this kid was definitely going to be a handful. “I don’t care if you believe it, it's the truth.” He took a long drag from his cigar. “He asked me to help but judging by what I found on that island it was already too late.” He could see the other’s eyes start to water a bit with the mention of the dead marine. “Who killed him?”

It probably was insensitive to ask but he never really cared much about being sensitive. The kid clenched his jaw so tightly he thought that he wasn’t going to get an answer out of him but then he heard an angry, “Doflamingo.” come out of his mouth.

Croc felt his eyes widen slightly before he put the mask back on. He didn’t know why he was surprised that the pink asshole had shot his marine traitor of a brother, but he had hoped that maybe he still had some shred of decency left in him. Obviously that was too much to hope for.

“And do you want revenge?” He could see the kid’s eyes burning brighter. He saw the fire in them again, it reminded himself of a younger version of himself.

“Yes.” He answered unwaveringly, he had to admire those golden steeled eyes. 

Crocodile let the sand go, allowing the kid to stand on the floor. He looked over at him cautiously. “Stay with me then, if you prove useful, I will train you to be strong. Otherwise you can get off my ship at the next port. I have no use for an unloyal follower.”

The kid seemed to be studying him. “You would let me leave?” Ah he didn’t believe him.

“I don’t have time or energy to waste on a random child. I saved you because Rosi asked me to help, in return he was to take you and come join me and help my plans.” He was carefully studying him now, trying to get a read on the kid. “Clearly that will not be happening and judging by the energy you now possess despite your amber lead, I would assume that the idiot managed to get you the fruit.”

The kid looked surprised at how much he knew but he could see him start to relax just slightly, that is until the fruit was mentioned. He held the letter opener back up in front of him. “Is that what you want? You want the fruit?”

Croc just sighed, dealing with an untrusting child was really not how he saw his day going. “Look kid, I don’t care about that, but having a devil fruit could make you useful to me. I have bigger plans than something foolish like immortality.” It seemed he still didn’t trust him and Croc was getting bored of this conversation. “Stay, don't stay, it's your choice.” He turned to leave before he paused remembering what was in his pocket. He took it out throwing it over to him. He watched his eyes widen in recognition. “Do let me know what you choose.”

The kid held that hat close to him looking at it in disbelief. As Croc left he was sure he could hear the sound of sniffling behind him.

He took another long drag on his cigar. Great just what the hell did he get himself into?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Law grasped onto the hat tightly as he watched the door shut. He tried his best to hide his feelings, but he couldn't stop himself from crying as he held the hat close to his chest. He didn’t want to show weakness in the presence of this strange man, but he just couldn’t hold it together. He sat down on the floor grasping the only thing he would ever have remaining of Cora-san like a lifeline. In his crying he realized it smelled like his cigarettes, and it made him cry even harder. 

When he was finally able to get a hold of himself again, he sat against the man’s desk trying to catch his breath. He had to figure out what to do now, how was he going to survive in a world without Cora-san?

His first instinct was to get off the boat at the next stop, he didn’t know if he could trust this man or not, even if it seemed Cora-san did. He had trusted him enough to ask for help and to tell him about Law, something he didn’t think he had told to another soul. For him to have trusted the other man he couldn’t be all bad. He didn’t seem to care that Law was an Omega and the man smelled like a Beta to him. Just like Cora-san , he couldn't stop himself from thinking.

Law sighed, wiping away his tears. Maybe he should stay with him, going into a new place as a lone omega might not be the best decision, at least it seemed like here he would have some protection. Besides he could always just stick around until he cured himself, at the rate he was going it would take at least a few days to get the lead out, probably weeks or months until his body recovered. He could use this stranger just like he wanted to use him. The man was strong, and he offered Law his protection, something he desperately needed right now, even if he hated the idea.

He sighed again, this time there was more frustration present. He knew what he had to do. He took his spotted cap off of his head and put it down on the bed, putting Cora’s hat on. It was big on him but comforting, nonetheless. He found the smell of the man's cigarettes to be soothing, if he closed his eyes it was like he could pretend he was still there.

He shook off those thoughts. He had to be strong now, he had to so he could destroy Doflamingo. Law took a deep breath to steady himself before he opened the door. He looked around the hallway thankful he didn’t see anyone. He crept through the halls trying not to make any noise as he looked for the other man. He found him on deck alone, though there were a few others around doing various chores. He pulled Cora’s hat down to hide his face as he made his way to where the (pirate?) was standing. He didn’t move to acknowledge Law, still looking out into the sea smoking his cigar.

“I want to join you.” Law said after a moment.

The other seemed to mull this idea over before making a humming sound. “Fine kid, just don’t slow me down.”

Law wrinkled his nose. “My name is Trafalgar Law, not kid.”

The other man did turn to him now, he could see his critical eyes studying him. He must have liked what he saw because when he turned back he said. “Crocodile.” 

Law was confused at first but then he realized it must have been his name. What a weird thing to be named after. “You can sleep in the cot in my room for now.” He saw the man give an untrusting look to one of the alpha sailors who was inching suspiciously closer to where they were standing. 

Law was tired and didn’t need to be told twice, he scurried away leaving the man to smoke in peace. As Law lay in the bed he thought it would take him a while to fall asleep, his body however had other plans and soon he was drifting off to steady rocking of the boat and the familiar smell of Cora’s cigarettes. 

Chapter Text

Law spent the next few days cooped up in the room ridding his body of the amber lead. It was a hard and slow process but the relief he felt when he was done was immeasurable. His body was still sore but the white patches on his skin were fading fast. Soon you would never know just from looking at him about the disease that destroyed his life.

“We did it Cora-san.” he whispered to himself looking in the mirror. 

Just then the door to the cabin was thrown open making him jump then glare at the man responsible. “Good you're up.” He walked to his desk grabbing some papers then turning to Law. “We arrived at Swallow Island; we will be here for a day or so to stock up before leaving. If you want to leave, this is your chance.” Then he turned around without giving Law another glance and left.

He thought about the prospect of leaving again, staying wasn’t the most appealing option, especially with the way Crocodile acted towards him. Still the benefits outweighed the risks, if he stayed getting his revenge would be a lot easier. He hoped that with his sickness gone the man might even train him if he could convince him it would make him more useful.

Regardless of all that they would be docked for a few days and it would probably be a good idea to stretch his legs. It's not like anyone would run away from him in fear anymore. He took Cora’s hat off of his head and put it securely on the bed, not wanting anything to happen to it, before replacing it with his own spotted cap. Then he made his way out to the deck.

Swallow island was covered in snow, though most places were up here. Law decided looking out at the substance that he hated the snow, every bad thing that had happened to him had happened in the snow. It would be nice to be rid of it, Law didn’t know exactly where they would be going after this, but he had a feeling it wouldn’t be in the North Blue. 

Crocodile was standing by the exit plank saying something to one of the sailors, but Law didn’t care, going up and interrupting them instead. “I am going to go explore the island.” He announced, it's not that he really needed him to know or anything, but he didn’t want them to leave without him thinking he had run off.

Croc just waved him off with the same uncaring attitude as always. “Do what you want.”

Not needing to be told twice, Law went down the plank and into the town. It was on the smaller side and clearly not a huge hub for pirate or any activity, Law briefly wondered if that was why he stopped here. A place like this would certainly be off of a lot of people’s radar.

He got bored quickly walking through the town and instead decided to go up into the woods. He was never a huge fan of being around people anyway, maybe he could find something interesting in the forest. As he walked he could feel the cold biting at the exposed skin on his face but he trudged on uncaring. He was used to the feeling at this point after all, at least this time his body was feeling better.

Law paused as he heard a cry from just up ahead. Was there someone in trouble? Law creeped forward slowly peeking around some trees taking in the scene before him. There were two kids and they were kicking something and laughing. Law squinted, the thing had almost blended in in the snow, but he realized that it was a small poor polar bear. He clenched his fists watching the display of cruelty. Before he knew what he was doing he had picked up a tree branch and was walking into the clearing.

“Het idiots! Leave the bear alone!” The two of them turned to him and he could see them smirking.

“Oh and what is a small fry omega like you going to do about it?” The one with red hair taunted.

They were clearly underestimating him because of his size and presentation. Good . This would be the perfect opportunity to try out his devil fruit. As the two closed in on him Law shot them a smirk of his own activating his room.

When the two realized he had a devil fruit he saw them hesitate, but it was too late, and Law was attacking with the branch. It didn’t take long for him to make quick work of the two and soon they were running away trying to attach their arms again.

Idiots. He thought watching them scramble away.

“Uhhh thank you.” He heard a small voice call.

Law turned in shock and looked at the bear. Had he been the one to speak to him? “My name is Bepo… sorry.” He apologized to him. Law was confused as to what for but he brushed it off.

“Are you hurt? I can treat your injuries.” He offered without thinking, justifying that it would be a good test of his abilities.

“Uh yes thank you!” The bear agreed cautiously, coming over to stand by Law.

He activated his room again and scanned the bear's body. He would be okay, nothing serious just some bruises. He let him know as much before turning to leave. He had only gotten a few steps when he heard the crunch of snow behind him. When he turned he saw the bear was following him. “Why are you following me?” Law asked, probably a little grumpier than he needed to.

“Sorry but you uhh saved me. I have been lost and you're the first person who wasn’t umm mean to me so…” He let his voice trail off and looked up at Law with an extremely cute face.

Law wanted to tell him to turn around, that he didn’t need company but one look at that face shut him up, instead he just grumbled a small “Whatever” at him then left to go back to the ship. He had been wandering around for a while now and he was getting a bit tired and cold after exerting himself.

They walked in silence for a moment before Law broke it. “What's your name anyway?”

The other seemed shocked that he would ask. “B-Bepo!” He told him louder than necessary.

“Law.” He said back in acknowledgement. He was quiet for a moment before speaking again. “So how did you get here? Also how can you talk?” 

“Oh uhhh I am a mink and we all talk but I am not really sure how, we are just born that way! But uhh as to how I got here I was trying to find my brother, but I sort of fell into the ocean and then got lost and ended up here.”

“Wait, there are more of you?” He asked curiously. He was picturing a bunch of talking polar bears living on an island somewhere.

“Yeah there are a bunch of minks!” Law briefly realized that he had heard the term minks before though at the time talking animals sounded like something out of a children's book. Clearly though it wasn’t as the proof was standing in front of him.

When they made it back to the ship and Bepo was still there he paused. He wasn’t sure bringing him on board was the best idea. He didn’t have to wonder too long as soon a storm of sand was swirling next to him and Crocodile appeared out of it as it solidified.

“What is this?” He asked annoyed.

“This is Bepo.” Law said back not giving him the answer he was looking for.

He glared at Law before looking over at the mink. Law didn’t realize it, but he was now hiding behind him, it wasn’t very successful as Law was shorter than he was. 

“No.” Croc said simply yet firmly.

“I didn’t even ask you anything.” Law defended.

He looked at Law unamused. “The mink is not coming with us.”

Law frowned back at him; how could he say no to Bepo? Had he even seen how cute his face was? “Why not?!” He protested.

The man sighed, putting his hand on his face before leveling his eyes at Law. “Well for one, I am not running an orphanage or daycare, one child is already more than I want. Two our final destination is a very hot and dry climate, I doubt your little bear friend would like that too much.”

Law wanted to protest but he knew better than to argue with this man. Besides he could tell it wasn’t going to get him anywhere.

“Stupid sandy jerk.” Law mumbled before turning around to look at Bepo. “Sorry you heard him.”

He could see Bepo’s ears lower but he nodded nonetheless. Law couldn’t stand the display of cuteness. “We will be here for the next few days so, we can hang out again tomorrow if you want.”

The bear immediately perked back up at that. “Really you mean it?!” He asked excitedly.

Law felt his face heat up a bit, he didn’t think anyone had looked at him so excitedly before. “Uhh yeah.”

He smiled again. “Okay I will see you tomorrow then.” Law nodded before quickly running off and back onto the boat. He made sure to glare at that stupid lizard before going back into the room. 

Laying on the bed he quickly traded off his own hat for Cora’s, he just felt more comfortable with it on. He wouldn't admit it out loud, but the article was helping him to sleep. With his eyes closed it was sometimes like he was still there with him.

He didn’t sleep too well that night though, in fact he never really did, but it didn’t matter. He got up excited anyway, hoping that Bepo was waiting for him. He was surprised to see some soup next to his bed, it was lukewarm, so he assumed the stupid lizard had left it there for him. Law glared at the soup like it offended him but decided to eat it anyway, he would need something in his stomach before trudging through the snow.

He left the boat and to his relief found Bepo not too far away waiting for him in the snow. He smiled widely waving as he saw Law. Law didn’t bother looking for Crocodile as he left, it wasn’t his business what Law did anyway.

The two of them walked through the woods together, well Law was walking and Bepo was following behind him. He briefly debated starting a small fire when he heard it. It was an explosion, there was no doubt in his mind. Law felt his body freeze up for a moment, his breath catching, as his mind went back to the day his city burned, even though he tried to suppress those flashbacks. He remembered the sound of explosions and the heat from the fire despite the surrounding cold. Once again, his feet carried him forward without his brain registering what was going on. 

What he saw was a complete mess. He barely registered that he was looking at the two boys from yesterday because all he could focus on was the blood. He didn’t waste any more time, jumping immediately into action. He activated his room grabbing the amputated arm and got right to work. 

He zoned out everything around him, his entire concentration on the operation before him. He didn't owe these kids anything, but he wasn’t about to watch them die in front of him either, not when he could do something about it. He concentrated on reconnecting muscle tissue and bone, trying to negate the damage as much as possible. When he finally got both parties to a point when they were stable, he felt himself take a deep breath for the first time in maybe hours. His room flickering out around them.

He stood up an immediately felt dizzy almost falling over but he was held up by something, something coarse. His eyes opened wide as he looked around seeing Crocodile standing there looking at him with an unreadable expression.

Law just glared back, daring him to say something with his eyes. He expected him to tease him for wasting his energy or even admonish him for saving some stray kids. Instead, he smirked at him walking over and looking at the kids laying in the snow. “Impressive.”

Law felt his eyes widen at the complement, at least he assumed that's what it was, it was kind of hard to tell with him. “Come on, let's go back to the ship.” He turned to walk away, and Law felt the sand start to carry him.

“WAIT!” He yelled, surprising both of them. He then cleared his throat, calming himself down. “We can’t leave them in the snow; they will freeze.” He defended.

“And why should I care about that?”

“I don’t care about what you care about, but I just spent all this energy to heal them! Now you expect that to just go to waste? I don’t like to waste my time.” Law pat himself on the back as it seemed like a pretty logical argument.

“Fine,” Crocodile conceded, his sand picking up the two on the ground. “They aren’t coming back to the ship.” He said with a finality.

“Fine, there is a building up the hill there.” Law said pointing. “No one will see you helping, if that's what you're worried about.” 

The other pulled out a cigar lighting it as he made his way to where Law was pointing. “Should have left you in the boat.” He heard him mumble but it was weird, it didn’t sound like there was any real bite behind it. Law ignored his comment as he was dragged along, Bepo trailing behind them. 

When they got to the building Crocodile just walked right in not bothering to knock. There was an old man inside who seemed to be fiddling with something on the desk, he jumped as they entered throwing the contraption across the room. He looked like he was ready to fight but the sight of the children threw him off. Crocodile ignored him, setting the two down on a bed in the corner.

“What the hell? Who are you!?” The man asked, looking between them and the injured children they had just put in his house.

“Doesn’t matter, they are your problem now.” He took another drag off of his cigar looking completely uninterested at the old man.

Law rolled his eyes at his lack of explanation struggling out of the sand and standing in between them. “Those idiots got injured and they need a place to stay for a few days.” Law explained. 

The old man looked at Law now, seemingly studying him. “And what about the bear?” He heard Bepo squeak behind him.

“Bepo stays too.” He said firmly.

The man looked like he wanted to argue but he took another look at Crocodile and decided against it. “Fine whatever, gets pretty boring up here anyway.” He defended.

“I can stay?” Bepo asked unsure.

The man now turned to look at him. “You can stay if you're helpful.”

Bepo brightened up again. “I-I can be very helpful sir!” He insisted.

“Looks like we are done here then.” Crocodile turned to leave, and Law felt the sand close around him again, it felt like a giant hand picking him up and carrying him. A feeling he was unfortunately used to. 

He struggled at first but he soon realized that getting out of this was impossible, so he let himself relax as he was carried through the snow.

“Where did you learn to do that?” The man asked, breaking the silence.

Normally Law would have just told him to shut up, but he was proud of what he accomplished. “That was my first time using the fruit like that.”

He could feel the other looking at him, but Law stubbornly looked the other way. “And how did you know what to do?”

“It came naturally.” he defended, he felt the other stop and look at him skeptically. 

“How did you know the medical stuff?” He asked more specifically.

Law just huffed at him. “I am a doctor.”

He heard the other snort in disbelief as he continued walking.

“Fuck you it's true! My parents were doctors, and they taught me! Not only that but I have been studying for the past few years on my own!” He then cursed realizing that he may have revealed too much about himself at that moment.

“Hmmm, guess you are more useful than I thought.” Law decided that now was a good time to look at him and give him one of the dirtiest looks he could manage. The other was unfazed, though he thought he heard him mumble the words ‘feral gremlin’ under his breath.

When they got to the ship, he immediately took him to their room and finally the sand released him. Law brushed the residual sand off of him before getting into his bed and turning away from the other stubbornly. He felt himself start to drift off before Croc’s words brought him back to consciousness.

“We are leaving tonight.” he heard him say.

He immediately sat up in protest. “We can’t leave yet!” 

The man just brushed him off. “I have plans kid, and those plans don’t involve hanging out on this island and taking care of children.”

Law grit his teeth and tried to keep himself from yelling. “Just one more day.” He tried.

“No.” The other said firmly.

“One day won't ruin your plans!” He protested.

“If you want to stay so badly, then why don’t you stay here?”

To say Law hadn’t thought about it would be a lie, especially after finding Bepo. The idea of leaving him behind hurt but he too had plans he had to achieve. Staying here would be nice, comfortable even, but since when had Law’s life been either of those two things? Law bit the inside of his cheek so hard he could taste blood, but he knew what he had to do.

“Please.” He whispered but the fact that the other stopped what he was doing let Law know that he was listening. “I just need one more day to make sure they are going to live, please.” He tried again.

The other just sighed looking at him annoyed. “Fine, but if you are not here before the sun sets, we are leaving without you.”

Law nodded in acceptance before turning over in his bed. He hated having to beg but he hated needless death more. Funny, just a year ago he didn’t think he would have cared at all. It didn’t take long for sleep to claim him again, he dreamed of blue lights and performing surgery that night while Croc watched him sleep wondering just how much of a mess he had gotten himself into when he decided to save the kid. 

Chapter Text

When Law woke up, he hurriedly made his way off the ship. He noticed a few of the sailors eyeing him as he left but he ignored it, he didn’t have any time to waste with them. He trudged through the snow and up the familiar path to the weird man’s house. When he got there, he threw the door open similar to how he saw Crocodile do the day before causing the old man to jump once again.

He didn’t seem as annoyed with Law though. Bepo smiled bounding up to him excitedly. “Law your back!” He started to rub his face on Law causing him to half-heartedly shove him away.

“Yeah, yeah now let me see the idiots.” Bepo didn’t seem upset that Law tried to rebuke his affection and instead led him happily over to where the two were laying. Law cursed realizing that they were awake.

“No way! You're  the one who saved us?” The redhead asked.

Law crossed his arms. “What is that supposed to mean?”

He could see the other boy reaching out to try and stop him from speaking but he was ignored. “You're just an omega, there is no way that you saved us!”

Law frowned looking at the kid. “Not only did I save you, but I can just as easily kill you if I wanted.” He did his best to look scary and the other gulped a bit. “Now sit back and shut up, I need to check on my work.”

To his surprise the other did just that and allowed Law to expand his room and focus on healing the two. It was then that the other one spoke up.

“Thank you for saving us. My name is Penguin, and this is Shachi.” Law turned to him a bit surprised, he honestly wasn’t expecting to be thanked by these two.

“Yeah thanks or whatever.” He heard the other mumble as well.

Law tried to ignore the warm feeling it gave him and instead said “If you really want to thank me then watch out for Bepo.” he moved his focus to where the arm had been detached, focusing on connecting more of the muscles there.

“You're not staying?” Penguin asked in confusion.

“No, I am leaving today.” Law confirmed trying to ignore why the fact made him feel bad.

“But you can't just leave!” The redhead protested.

Law looked at him confused. “A minute ago you were insinuating I was a useless omega and now you want me to stick around?”

He saw the other blush, but he didn’t comment on it. “You can’t just… just show up and save us and then leave!”

The old man had walked over now. “You could stay here as well if you want. I don’t like the look of that fellow you were with, you would be safe here.”

Law took a deep breath glaring at the ground. Would he really be safe here? An image of pink flashed in his mind. No, he wasn’t safe anywhere, not from him. If he stayed here there was a chance that that bastard would find out and come for him. If he did… flashes of these people dying in front of him filled his head. No, he couldn’t let that happen.

“It’s not possible, sorry.” He stood up satisfied with his progress. He looked outside, the sun was about halfway across the sky, it had taken him longer to get up here with his tiny legs than it had when he had been carried down in the sand. 

“But why?” Bepo was protesting now and Law made sure not to look at his cute face. 

“There is something I need to do and… you will just get in the way.” he tried to sound as mean as possible. “I have to go now. Make sure you put some sort of salve on your injury or you will have some scarring.” With that he walked towards the door.

“Will we see you again?” This time Law did turn to look at Bepo, he could see him pouting and he couldn’t bring himself to dash his hopes.

“It's a big world out there, so who knows, maybe.” He looked one last time at his… friend? He shook off that thought, he didn’t have time for friendship, he had to focus on his revenge. 

“I hope we do!” Bepo said excitedly.

“Yeah us too!” Penguin agreed.

“Yeah you are pretty cool… for an omega.” Law just rolled his eyes at him before taking his leave.

“Take care of each other…. Idiots.” With that he was gone and back in the snow. He knew he had to leave then, or he might never leave this place. These kids were just too good, too innocent to have someone like Law here, he would only bring them down. 

When he made it back to the boat he was surprised to see Crocodile there seemingly looking for him. “You came back.” He said it as a statement, but he could hear a small hint of surprise in his tone.

“Of course I did.” Law grumbled. “Sticking with you is my best chance for revenge.” This seemed to appease the other man as he turned away and started giving the orders to set sail. For once Law didn’t go back inside, instead he sat on the side of the boat staring at the island as the boat started to sail away.

He silently hoped that the three of them would have a happy life there together. He hoped that the two kids would be nice to Bepo and maybe one day he would even find his way back to his own home. Law felt a pain in his heart at the thought.

Home… that was something so foreign to Law now. He wondered briefly if he could ever allow himself the luxury of such a thing again. Probably not, the word was a cruel place after all and had a habit of taking things away from him.

He sat there staring until the island became nothing but a small dot in the distance, even after it was gone, he couldn’t bring himself to move.

Crocodile came up beside him. “We will be at sea for a few more days until we reach our destination.” He nodded in acknowledgement but gave no sign that he was going to move.

“Come inside.” He heard the other say to him, he almost jumped figuring the man had left him alone.

“Why do you care?” Law bit back annoyed.

“You agreed to help me with my plans, it would be foolish to let you freeze to death out here.” Law turned to glare at him, but he saw him looking suspiciously at the deckhand who Law realized was swabbing the deck by him again.

“Fine whatever.” He relented, he was getting kind of cold anyway. He followed him back inside and to his surprise found another bowl of soup for him. Law wondered if that was what everyone was eating or if he thought that was all Law could eat since he was recovering from being sick. He didn’t feel like asking for clarification as he sat down to eat, giving the other a look that was daring him to make a comment.

He didn’t much to Law’s relief and he started instead to read through some documents. When Law had finished up, he walked over to a porthole staring out into the ocean. He wasn’t tired enough to sleep yet, but clearly the lizard didn’t want him alone on deck.

It was then he felt something nudge his side and he looked down to see sand next to him, he was about to snap at the man for being annoying when he noticed something in the sand. Carefully he reached over and pulled the object out. To his surprise it was a medical book. He looked at it in disbelief, it was a first edition too, not to mention published recently.

He chanced a glance up at him, but he seemed absorbed in whatever document he was reading. Law opened his mouth to thank him but then shut it again immediately. He was sure the other just did it to make him more useful anyway. 

Instead, he held on to the book going back over to his spot on the bed and opened it up starting to read it. He was surprised to find a lot of new information and studies he wasn’t familiar with inside. Needless to say he ended up reading until the other blew out the lamp to go to bed. 

The next morning, he began to read again, they were stuck at sea anyway there wasn’t much else to do. Croc seemed content to leave him reading in his room but there was just one problem. The room was suddenly becoming hot and stuffy to Law. He didn’t understand exactly why but he was craving the cool air on his skin.

He shut the book with a thud and decided that he would spend the rest of the day reading on the deck. Quietly he snuck out of the room and to the rear deck, not wanting to run into anyone. He even hid himself behind some barrels so as to not draw attention to himself. It was a lot nicer being on the deck, the cool air felt great on his skin, though he was still feeling hot for some reason. 

He shifted around again groaning at the feeling. What was wrong with him? Was he having a relapse from the lead?

“Mmmm do you smell that?” He heard someone ask close by.

Law froze behind the barrels. He could hear some sniffing nearby. “Smells like an omega in heat.” He heard the other mumble.

Law froze, cursing himself in his mind. Of course that's what this was, as a doctor he should have recognized the signs immediately! When he has presented before there was nothing normal about it with the lead in his body, in fact he had never experienced a true heat, that was until now. He held his breath trying to keep his scent in as much as possible. Maybe they would just go away and he could crawl back into the room. 

He jumped back suddenly seeing a face looking at him through the space in between the barrels. He recognized him as the alpha who kept trying to get near him on deck. “There you are my sweet little omega.” His voice sounded disgustingly fake sweet to Law. “Why don’t you come out here and let me take care of you.” The man started to pour his scent out at Law and he wrinkled his nose, despite his body's natural reaction to relax slightly.

“G-Go away!” He was trying to sound scary, but his head was starting to feel dizzy. He just knew he had to get away from this alpha.

“Oh don’t worry sweet little omega, I won't hurt you, I know just what you need right now.” Despite his words he could see the cruelty reflected in his eyes.

“Uhhh do you think this is a good idea?” He heard another voice call close to them.

The other turned away from Law for just a moment. “It will be fine, everyone knows what an omega’s purpose is anyway.” he turned back to Law. “Not only that he is unclaimed too! I think I may have found myself a real prize here.” He tried to reach back, and Law did his best to pull himself away, his legs were starting to feel like jelly and he knew if the other moved the barrel he wouldn’t be able to escape this alpha.

To his horror that is exactly what the alpha did. He moved the barrel out of the way, still looking hungrily at Law. “Come here omega, I promise I will be gentle.” the grip on his leg as he started to pull Law out said otherwise. He started to thrash around despite his instincts telling him to listen to the alpha. 

Then just when he thought he was screwed his vision was blocked with the now familiar sight of sand. He felt the hand on his leg release him and the alpha was raised up into the air encased in sand. “Just what do we have here?” He heard Crocodile snarl. “I thought I warned you that if you touched the boy I would kill you?”

The other was clearly trying to speak in his own defense but it was muffled by the sand. “Well, it appears you have made your choice.” Law looked up scared as the man’s skin suddenly became full of wrinkles, it looked like he had been completely dehydrated.

Law watched the scene in awe and saw the other alpha scramble back. Crocodile looked at the drained man before throwing him into the sea with an almost bored expression. “Did you touch him as well?”

Law could smell the scared alpha scent filling the air. “N-No sir, I told him not to, I would never, I-”

“Good, now get out of here and spread the word to the others about what happens when I am disobeyed.” Law had not been afraid of the man previously, and he still wasn't, but watching the scene before him he got an idea of just how dangerous he might be.

Law tried to haul himself up to drag his body back inside where it was safe, but he collapsed, his legs giving out from underneath him. To his surprise he didn’t hit the floor and was instead caught in sand, then he was brought up into his arms. He heard him grumbling under his breath about dumb bone headed alpha’s.

When he got back into the room he was deposited onto the bed with surprising care before he turned to him upset. “Why would you do something so incredibly stupid? You should know better than to go outside when you are in heat!? You are lucky I was there or that piece of shit alpha might have claimed you!” Law was surprised as he thought he was hearing worry through the anger, his head was just getting more and more foggy though so he couldn't really focus on it. 

“I did-idn’t know.” Law tried to defend himself.

“You're an omega, how could you not recognize your heat?” He snapped back.

“Fuck you I never ha-ad one before!” He tried to snap but his stomach was starting to cramp, he bent down trying to hold it.

This seemed to give the other pause, and he stared at Law wordlessly for a moment before sighing. “Stupid brat.” He mumbled before leaving the room. Law thought it was going to be the end of it but to his surprise he came back with an ice pack and a few bottles of water. “Here.” he grumbled practically throwing them at Law. 

Law looked at him confused through the haze but quickly took the ice pack enjoying the feeling of the cold on his face. “Do not leave this room until your heat is gone, do you understand?” He could hear the firmness in his voice.

Law just nodded as he felt his mind start to slip away. He vaguely thought he felt a hand on his head rubbing his hair somewhat soothingly, but it must have just been his imagination.

Chapter Text

To say he was relieved that his heat was over would be an understatement. Law was overjoyed that his body had stopped aching and cramping and stopped feeling like he was on fire. He was just thankful that he had the ice packs to help cool him off, though he wasn’t too sure how he kept getting them. Well, that wasn't exactly true, but he didn’t want to think about it.

Shakily he got to his feet making his way to the bathroom. All he wanted to do now was to shower, he was very thankful that the boat had a very small bathroom right next to the room he had been staying in. Carefully he opened the door, breathing a sigh of relief when he found it empty. He quickly shut and locked the door behind him before getting into the shower. It felt good to let the cool water run over him, washing away the sweat, even though the water itself was making him feel weak.

He pushed through it though before sneaking back into his room to put on his old clothes. He paused when he got in there noticing that there were new clothes laid out on the bed. It was just a simple black long sleeved shirt and tan pants, they honestly looked like they might even be a little big on him, but they were clothes nonetheless. He put them on and then looked for Cora’s hat to put on too, but he couldn’t find it. He could feel the panic start to rise as he looked under the bed and moved the blankets and pillows around. It was like it just disappeared.

Law started to look around the room in increasing panic as the door opened. He turned to Croc in anger and panic. “Where is it?!” 

“I can see your feeling better.” He seemed completely unphased.

Law didn’t have time for his sarcasm. “Where is Cora-san’s hat?!” He took another couple steps toward him though they both knew there was nothing Law could do to be threatening.

He heard the other chuckle lowly before going past Law and opening up a drawer in his desk and producing the hat handing it over. Law wasn’t proud of how fast he lunged towards the hat, but after thinking it might be lost, he was eager to have it back.

“Why would you take it? Stupid Lizard.” He mumbled the last part under his breath, but he was sure the other heard him.

“Oh so you wanted it to start smelling like an omega in heat?” He could hear a teasing tone in his voice as he asked, already knowing the answer.

Law just frowned and grumbled a small ‘no’ back. It was weird the other must have noticed that Law liked to smell the article, it was… weirdly considerate of him. No, maybe it was just weirdly observant of him? Yeah, he would go with that.

The other didn’t seem affected by his grumpy attitude, he appeared more amused by it then anything. “Tomorrow we will be at our destination, I was going to leave you on the boat, but after what happened I think it would be better to have you shadow me.”

Law perked up at this. The man was going to let him come with him? The prospect of that sounded kind of exciting, maybe he would even have a chance to test his combat ability. 

Then he thought about what he said, was Crocodile really worried about protecting him? He let his mind wander back to how he saved him during his heat, he did not hesitate to kill that alpha who was trying to claim him. It also seemed like maybe he had threatened him concerning Law before. Not only that but he was pretty sure the guy had taken care of him during his heat, from a distance but still. Law felt a guilty feeling start to build in his stomach, he didn’t want to have to rely on anyone, least of all this man but… well he had and Crocodile had protected and helped him.

He saw Crocodile go to leave again and before he registered it, he had yelled out. “Wait!” It seemed to have surprised both of them, but he did wait at the door looking at Law with curiosity. “Uhh I just… I wanted… just thanks or whatever.” Law was looking anywhere but at the person in front of him.

“Don’t mention it kid.” Law wasn’t sure if he was just dismissing him, or he really didn’t want him to mention it again but either way he wasn’t planning on saying it again.

He settled back into his bed deciding to read for the rest of the day, at least he could do something to distract his mind while his body recovered.

The next day Law was excited to go on this ‘mission’ with Crocodile, though he wouldn't say it out loud. He was pretty sure the other had picked up on it because he kept looking at him with this amused look that Law hated. Like he was just so smart and knew something that he didn’t. That look always infuriated him and thus only made him wear it more.

The other also wouldn’t tell him his plans or what they were doing there, all he could get out of him was that he was looking for someone and that was that. It was okay though, Law would just have to pay attention and figure it out, it was more fun that way anyway.

He followed the man off of the boat, noticing that none of the sailors so much as looked at him as he passed. 

Good , he thought smirking smugly as he passed them.

Much to Law’s surprise the first place that Crocodile led him when they got off the boat was a bar. He turned to Law before they entered. “Stay close to me and keep your mouth shut.” Law rolled his eyes but didn’t argue, he would have done that anyway, he didn’t need him to tell him that.

The bar itself was clearly shady, as were the patrons who were present. Though Law didn’t really expect anyone who would be drinking in a place like this in the early afternoon would be an upstanding citizen anyway. 

He definitely wasn’t nervous either being in a place like this, and he definitely didn’t start walking closer to Crocodile as he made his way to the bartender nor was he loosely holding onto his long black coat. Law wrinkled his nose at the overwhelming scent of alpha’s and alcohol in the establishment but said nothing, trying his best to stand tall and confidently.

Crocodile took his seat casually at the bar, his coat draping over the back of the chair and Law used it to shield himself from the other patrons, using his small size to his advantage as he stood next to him.

“Can I get you something?” He heard the bartender ask. The man looked to be in his 40’s though his skin was clearly scarred from some sort of fight. When he smiled flakily at Crocodile he noticed that he had a crooked gold tooth in his mouth. 

“Information.” And he saw the man take some berry out of his pocket and place them on the table. The bartender’s eyes lit up as he reached for it, but Crocodile pulled it away before he could grab it. “That's for if you're helpful, could be more in it for you depending on just how helpful you are.” 

“I have been known to be helpful.” Law snorted softly and he saw the guy's eyes wander to him for a moment before returning to the much more intimidating figure in front of him.

Crocodile pulled something out of his pocket sliding it across the bar. “Do you know where I can find this man?” Law tried his best to see what was on the paper, but he was too short to see much of anything from his vantage point.

The bartender’s face paled when he looked at it. “No deal, I doubt you have enough money on you for me to tell you about him, though…” his eyes trailed down to Law. “The danger might be worth it if you saw fit to part ways with the little omega you have there.”

Law tensed as he tightened his grip on the man’s coat. He wouldn’t sell Law, right? That couldn’t be why he had asked him to accompany him was it? Was this all just some elaborate plan to get him to drop his guard so he could sell Law to the highest bidder? 

Law didn’t have more time to spiral as in a flash Crocodile had leaned up looping his hook around the others neck, leveling the sharp point against the front. “The kid isn’t for sale, now tell me what you know? I think you will find that I am more of a threat than who I am looking for.”

Law smirked at the fear on the alpha’s face. He suddenly felt slightly guilty for doubting the man, but he shoved those feelings down very quickly, reminding himself that he would be foolish to trust so freely.

“Okay, okay I will tell you! just please just don't kill me!” The other patrons were looking over now but none of them made a move to help. “H-he lives off o-outside of town in the woods, real silent type, doesn’t like to be bothered!”

Seemingly bored Crocodile released him standing up. “Now was that so hard?” He moved as he turned to leave, Law following close behind though he glared at the bartender as hard as he could before they were out the door.

Neither of them mentioned what happened as Law continued to follow him down the street, and out of town. When they were in the woods by some trees he turned to him. “Stay here, I need to check something.” Law wanted to protest but before he could the man had turned into sand and had scattered in different directions. 

“Stupid lizard.” He grumbled under his breath as he kicked a few rocks into the snow. He didn’t like being left alone, he wanted to help. He wasn’t useless, he could do something to help. To his surprise the man was back a lot faster than Law had anticipated.

“This way.” He said in leu of an explanation and Law followed.

“You didn’t leave me.” Law didn’t mean to say his thoughts out loud again, but he had.

“Why would I have brought you if I was just going to leave you standing uselessly in the woods?”

Law trudged behind him in the snow confused about where they were going and his answer. He thought back to how Crocodile kept having to protect him. “You don’t… think I am a useless omega?”

He heard the other snort. “I saw you attach a kid's amputated arm, I wouldn’t exactly call that useless. Also, I don’t have useless pawns.”

Law stared at the cigar smoke rising above the man's back, a small amount of pride swelling in him. Every time someone looked at him now all they saw was that he was an omega, they never looked past it, but this man… he didn’t even seem to think about it at all.

He picked up his speed, following a bit closer. If he saw someone useful in him then Law would do his best to prove him right.

Their destination was apparently a small cabin in the woods, Law assumed that whoever they were looking for lived inside. He was proven right when as they were walking towards it the door opened, and a large man stepped out.

His skin was darker and his hair that was shaved pretty close to his head was white. Law thought it was strange that the shirt he was wearing was short sleeved and he didn’t seem to have a coat anywhere. The lack of sleeves shown off his muscles though and Law could see why the bartender had been so intimidated by him.

“Daz Bones correct?” Law looked at Crocodile in confusion but stayed quiet. Was that really this guy's name? It had to be some sort of nickname right?

“Sir Crocodile, what does a warlord want with me?”

Law felt himself tense up beside him, he was unaware that the man he had been traveling with was a warlord. If there was one thing that Law hated, besides Doflamingo, it was the government. Was the man beside him, the man who had been helping and protecting him really working for them? He felt his heart picking up speed and when he zoned back into the conversation, he realized that he must have missed a few things.

“You want me to… join you?” The man seemed extremely confused.

“I think I have a better use for your talents than hiding out here in the woods. Besides with me the government won’t be breathing down your neck anymore. Both parties would benefit greatly from such an arrangement.”

“And I will be paid?” The man asked skeptically.

Crocodile reached into his coat pocket producing a lot of berry, Law wondered just what else he was hiding in that coat. The man seemed pleased, and Law saw a small smile on his face, the first he had seen since he exited his house.

“I want you to be my number 1, and if you agree that will be what I refer to you as going forward.”

He trudged across the snow grabbing the money and counting it. “I don’t work for anyone weaker than me.” 

“Then this should be the perfect fit for you.” They studied each other for a moment and Law was sure that one of them was going to attack but instead Daz Bones just laughed.

“Alright, I accept.” Law looked surprised between the two not really understanding why they weren’t fighting. If this was Doflamingo he would have fought him for insinuating he was weak.

“Excellent, then let's go back to the ship. We have a long journey back to the Grandline.”

Both his and their new member’s eyes widened at the mention of the Grandline. Crocodile had definitely not told Law where they were going but he supposed he now had a clear picture. As they followed him back down the mountain, he could feel the guy's eyes looking at Law curiously but Law kept his eyes forward. The man smelled like a beta to Law, so he wasn’t worried about any pheromones, but he was sure it was still weird to see a small omega traveling with them to somewhere so dangerous. 

They took a different way back through the town, clearly not trying to advertise their presence. Law had been walking close to Crocodile, despite his recent revelation that the man was a warlord, when he stopped. Law felt almost a tugging sensation on his soul, it startled him a bit. He had never felt this sort of a pull before. He took a step towards it and realized it was coming from a sword vendor nearby.

Come to me

Law jumped feeling a large hand on his shoulder. “What's wrong?” It was Crocodile and he was looking at him skeptically.

Law turned back to the vendor still feeling the pull. “I… something is… calling to me?” Law wasn’t quite sure how to respond.

Crocodile seemed skeptical but Daz Bones interrupted. “Hmm a sword is calling out to you then, rare but not unheard of.” He looked at Law curiously then to the sword vender who was parked where he had been staring. “I would follow it.”

Law turned to Croc and he gave him a small nod so Law followed the pull. They walked over and the vendor perked up. “Ahhh are you lovely gentlemen looking for a sword.” He was clearly talking to the two beside him and seemed confused when Law was the one walking up to the display. 

“Umm was there anything that I could interest you in?” He was looking at Law confused.

“What's in the drawer?” Law asked. He pointed to where he felt the pull coming from. 

He saw the man pale at Law’s question. “That is not for sale, least of all for an omega. It's a cursed sword, I could not in good conscience sell that to anyone, least of all a child.”

Law glared at the man before reaching out towards the drawer, the pull was getting stronger now. “Hey kid, I just said don’t-” He moved to grab Law, but Crocodile was quicker seizing his arm.

“Get out the sword.” It was clearly a command, and the man said nothing else quickly complying and taking out a long box. 

When he opened it, Law felt the pull increase even more. The sword itself was long, very long, it was black with white cross like marks on it and to Law’s surprise it had fuzz around the handle.

Law reached out and he saw the owner pale. “Don’t touch that it's cursed you will die if you-”

He didn’t pay any attention to things like that, Law was already cursed to die once, things like that didn’t have any meaning to someone like him.

He felt like he could hear the sword screaming as he got closer and closer to it. When his hand finally grasped the handle, the screaming stopped. Instead, it felt like a low humming in Law’s hands. He grabbed it out of the box holding it close. The sword was clearly much too big for him, and it would be difficult to use at first but holding it now made Law feel complete.

“I hope you get taller, kid.” Was all he heard the warlord say. Law would have glared at him, but he was too busy looking at his new sword in awe.

“How much for the cursed blade?” The shop owner was looking between the two very intimidating men and the small omega holding the long-cursed blade.

“J-Just take it! I would be happy to get rid of it!” (and you) but that part was left unsaid. Law could see him getting paler as he noticed Croc’s hook appendage.

“Alright then.” And he saw the two turn to leave, Law trudged after them making sure not to let his new sword drag on the ground.

It was quiet as they walked and Law focused on the humming from the sword, it seemed very pleased that Law had come to claim it.

“You will need to learn how to use that ridiculous thing.” He could hear the other releasing his cigar smoke as he said it.

“I can teach him.” Law looked at the newcomer in confusion. “Blades are sort of my specialty.” He smirked at Law when he saw him looking, turning his arm into a blade. He felt his eyes widen in surprise, but it was honestly pretty cool. Not that he would say anything.

“Do what you want.” He could see him waving them off but Law could detect a hint of approval in his voice.

“Think you can put up a challenge kid?” He was clearly amused looking at Law.

“Just try me Bones-ya!” Law would not let this man defeat him so easily.

Chapter Text

Turns out Law was defeated by him… a lot. The man was practically a sword himself, and it was impossible to land a hit on him. Not to mention that Law was still sort of small and the sword was a bit awkward for him to use. It didn’t matter to him though, he was full of determination. 

There was something that had been bothering Law for the past few days, but he wasn’t really sure how to bring it up. He could feel it festering beneath the surface every time he looked at Crocodile, it wasn’t getting any better.

Finally one night when they were in their shared room Law blurted out his thoughts in anger. “You're a warlord!” 

The man in question was sitting at his desk writing something down, he paused looking up at Law in confusion. “Yes, and?”

Law stomped over to him angrily. “How could you work for the government!? They are-are complete assholes!”

“I don’t work for the government kid, I am just using them.” It seemed like his anger was just amusing him and it was only causing Law to get more angry. 

“How can you say that when you are one of their dogs!?” Law bit back.

He heard the other sigh and to Law’s surprise he got up and walked around the desk. “Listen kid,” He bent down so he was on his level. “I hate the government too, probably not as much as you, but believe me when I say the government can go fuck themselves.” Law was surprised by the sincerity in his tone. “That being said I have plans, goals to achieve and I will use any resource I have available, including the government. Being a warlord allows me certain privileges that I would not have otherwise, and it makes what I want to do… easier. Do you understand?”

Law nodded, though his eyes were still sharp. 

“Is this something you can deal with or not? I don’t have any room for disloyalty in my crew.”

Law thought about it for a moment. He hated the idea of working with the government or helping them with anything but that didn’t seem like what Crocodile was doing. He supposed he wasn’t against using the government to his own advantage, as long as they were getting more out of it than them. “Fine.” The man stood up seemingly pleased and went around to the other side of the desk. “But I won’t be nice to any marines.”

He heard the other chuckle at that. “Wouldn’t expect you to.” It was quiet and Law thought it was the end of the conversation, but he spoke up again. “You knew Rosi was a marine, didn’t you?”

Law felt himself stiffen up, they hadn’t talked about Cora-san since that first day, besides when they mentioned the hat. It was weird to hear him want to talk about it now.

“I knew.” he confirmed. Law had visions of marines gunning people down in the streets, chasing them out of hospitals, calling him a monster. “He was the only good one though.” 

He heard the other chuckle again. “You might be right about that.” He could tell his attention was now back on whatever work he was doing, and the conversation was over. Weirdly though he did feel better about it. 

Law sat on his bed opening up his medical book and started to read. Crocodile brought up a good point, maybe even someday Law could find use for the government for his own plans. It would serve them right if Law could somehow use them to further his own goals. Sort of like his own little version of revenge. He wondered briefly if that's what it was like for Crocodile as well. 

It took them a few weeks to get to their destination, which Law now knew was a country called Alabasta though he still wasn’t any surer of Crocodile’s plans concerning that place. It didn’t matter to him though, he was just concentrating on getting better with his sword. Not only that but he had started to grow in these past few weeks. He was at least an inch or maybe even two taller and he just hoped that it would continue.

When they did officially get to the country he was surprised that they didn’t go into the capital instead they sailed up a river to a town that was called Rainbase. When they got there Crocodile was treated almost like a celebrity. It was clear a lot of people in the town worked for him. Not only that but there was a huge building that they were constructing in the middle of town just for him. 

Much to Law's enjoyment no one here seemed to give him a second look, or even thought to question his presence there, they were all much too busy looking for just a fraction of Crocodile’s attention.

They walked up to the building and the foreman came over to update them on the progress. “Ahhh Sir Crocodile! Truly lovely to see you! We are ahead of schedule on the building! Should be done before the year is over.” He seemed rather proud of himself though he couldn’t tell if Crocodile was actually happy with the progress or not.

“Keep me updated.” He said walking by him.

“Yes sir, of course sir!” He then watched the man scramble back and yell at the workers to work faster.

It was interesting working with someone like Crocodile after being with Doflamingo for so long. Doflamingo ruled by fear, he was ruthless against anyone who he thought warranted it. Often using his cruelty to obtain people’s loyalty. Crocodile wasn’t like that, though people were still clearly afraid of him; he had only lashed out when it was necessary. He wasn’t someone who let his anger rule him, every move seemed calm and calculated. Law admired that in him, it was something that he wanted to emulate in himself.

There was one thing though that Law didn’t like about this new place and that was the heat. It was borderline unbearable. He never thought he would miss the cold and snow but he was sweating like when he was feverish with amber lead and that was just from being in the shade outside. He started to wear shorts and t-shirts after that. The pants and coats from before suffocating him, he kept his hat though. Both his and Cora’s, those were something he would never part with no matter how hot it was.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

True to his word before the end of the year the building was completed, and Law was a bit relieved to finally have his own room. Law had thought Crocodile was keeping him close just on the ship but when they stayed in the small hotel waiting for their main base to be built Law had stayed with him in his room. He wondered if it was because the beta was worried about him being attacked or something.

He could hear the other chuckle at the way Law lit up looking at his own room. It was huge, well it was probably just slightly larger than a normal room, but it had been so long since Law had had a space of his own to him it was perfect. He even had a small balcony that overlooked the town. Law walked out taking in the view, just below him was the moat that would soon be filled with banana gators. Law didn’t really understand why a devil fruit user would want to surround himself with water, but Crocodile seemed most excited about that idea. In fact the baby animals were supposed to get in later today and Law was going to be there to greet them. He tried not to let his excitement for that show.

He turned around setting his sword down as he flopped on his oversized bed. It was so big Cora-san could have easily fit on it. There was some other furniture lining the room, a few chairs and a dresser, also a very fuzzy white rug in the middle of the room that sort of reminded him of Bepo in both a comforting and uncomforting way. 

“Seems to your liking.” He heard the other comment as he leaned in the doorway.

“Is it… really mine?” Law asked carefully trying not to let his emotions through. 

“Of course kid. Bout time anyway, one would think you would have been sick of sharing a room with me by now.” He lit his cigar and Law wrinkled his nose.

“Yeah well, whatever, stupid lizard.” He mumbled under his breath trying not to let the other know just how pleased he was.

“Get settled in, Daz Bones won't be back until late so there is no training today.” He went to leave but paused. “I will come back when the shipment arrives.” Then he was gone, shutting the door behind him. He was thankful the cigar smoke was gone though he had unfortunately gotten used to the smell.

Law enjoyed his room as he got settled in. He took his time to explore it, surprised that there seemed to be a full wardrobe among other necessities in the drawers. This casino was a pretty good idea, such a smart way to scam the nobles and rich of this world. Due to that fact he had to make it look incredibly gaudy but he couldn't deny the genius of it. Not only that but since they had gotten there he had interviewed a new security force in order to help protect them. To Law's surprise most of them seemed to be betas. There were a few alphas here and there but Croc made sure that none of them worked inside the building. Law was curious if it was for his sake or for another reason entirely, though he didn’t ask. 

He was excited when the shipment arrived later that day, Law had always had kind of a soft spot for animals. There were several crates that were brought in, and Law could hear some quiet squeaking coming from them.

The man opened the first box allowing them to look in. There were two small banana gators inside. They looked up at them with wide fearful eyes and the chirping increased.

“Now we have both males and females so they should reproduce over time, their babies will be even more loyal than these ones.” The man kicked the box and Law saw the two shake. He glared at the man about to snap but Crocodile beat him to it.

“That will be all, then. My associate will get you your payment.” A man in a black suit who ran a lot of the everyday business for him suddenly appeared flashing some money to the handler and quickly getting his attention.

After he left Crocodile opened the remaining boxes then used his sand to reach across the room dragging another box close to them. Upon further inspection he saw it was filled with raw meat.

“Every day you will come down here and feed them with me.” He instructed, picking up some meat and giving it to the eager animals. Law watched them tear into the meat with much happier expressions than before. He thought they looked really cute doing so, even covered in blood. “Go ahead.” He encouraged holding a piece of meat out to him.

Law looked at it in disgust, but he picked it up anyway. He walked over to a crate and looked at the banana gator inside. He noticed that its banana was a bit more crooked than the others, and its eyes were a pretty shade of yellow. Law reached out the meat tentatively watching with curiosity as the reptile latched on.

Law reached in and picked her up as she happily chomped on the meat. When she was done she chirped happily at Law, surprisingly burrowing further into his arms.

“Can I name her?”

“Just one.” Crocodile confirmed. “Don’t get too attached, they are just guard dogs after all.” 

He looked at the lizard happily snuggling in his arms, particularly the yellow banana like thing on her head. “I am going to name her Tang.” he announced and as if Tang knew her name she started chirping happily again until Law gave her some more meat.

“Sure, now help me feed the rest.” Law didn’t want to put her down but he knew it was best to do what he said. It was clear he wanted them to get used to the two of them after all. Law obliged feeding the rest of the gators before putting them in a large tank in the side of the room. Eventually they would be patrolling the moat, but they were too small right now.

Law went over to the tank staring at Tang who had walked over to stare at him as well. “You like that one a lot.”

Law stood up feeling his face flush in embarrassment. “I don’t care.” He very badly lied.

The man lit another cigar as he chuckled at Law’s denial even though he was still stealing glances over at her. “If you want you can keep her in your room for a few months until she gets bigger.”

Law’s eyes widened and he tried to hide his excitement. “R-really?” 

“Sure, I can have someone bring up a smaller tank tonight you can-”

Law didn’t waste any time in activating a room and switching her for rock he had picked up that was supposed to go in the tank anyway. The gator seemed confused but happy to be in Law’s arms again.

He started to run back to his room carrying Tang who was still chirping happily. He stopped before leaving, looking at the Smoke wafting off of the cigar. Law frowned at him. “You know smoking is bad for you. If you want to actually live to carry out your plans you should probably stop.”

He saw his eyes widen for just a moment before his mask was securely back on his face. “Get out of here kid.”

Law just shrugged happily carrying his new pet away. If he wanted to kill himself with cancer that was his decision. Law supposed he could always just open him up and scrape out his lungs if it became a problem anyway.

When he got to his room much to his surprise the lizard didn’t want to explore, instead Tang was more than happy to be cuddled up in Law’s lap absorbing his warmth. It was nice to have a companion of sorts, he was surprised that the warlord had let me take one of the gators. 

Law looked down at her again. He knew he had only had Tang for ten minutes, but he would kill anyone who ever tried to mess with her. Law vowed that he would protect her and keep her safe.

That night when he put her in her aquarium to sleep he found himself sitting there and watching her for a little bit before going to bed himself. She seemed happy in her tank and Law was going to enjoy his time with her before she outgrew his room.

Chapter Text

A few months after the building was done and the casino had opened its doors to the public people started to pour in. At first it was just normal people and a few rich ones that were showing up but slowly the casino was earning a better and better reputation, and nobles began to visit as well. 

Law wasn’t too thrilled seeing those types of people but thankfully his training kept him very busy. The staff was also aware of who he was so he never had any problems sneaking in the back entrance or even a window on occasion. Law was doing that now as he had just been summoned to Crocodile’s office but hated to walk in the front. He was surprised that his training was being cut short today, the man had put a big emphasis on Law getting stronger and rarely pulled him away from it. He had been getting stronger, and he was getting a lot better at using his sword too, though he was truly no closer to beating Daz Bones despite his improvement and creative use of his devil fruit. He was still too short to use the sword effectively, but he had been growing pretty steadily since he had gotten all of the lead out.

When he got to the hallway outside of Crocodile’s office, he saw Daz Bones standing in front of the doors. Law smirked at him and was about to launch an attack when the man turned and looked at him with a strange look on his face. Law had been training with him a lot these past few months and while the man wasn’t too expressive, he had learned to read him pretty well, after all that is what happens when you train with someone so much, still he had not seen a look like that on the man’s face before.

Before Law could say anything, he broke from his post at the door walking over to him bending down so he could speak quietly in his ear. “There is someone in there asking for you specifically.” Law looked at him confused, there weren’t that many people who knew him let alone would ask for him. “I don’t know the details, but Sir Crocodile seems annoyed, and he said to tell you to… brace yourself.”

Law tilted his head in even more confusion, his mind running a mile a minute but he nodded nonetheless. Maybe it was that drunk rich bastard who tried to corner him behind the casino? He must have been able to put himself back together after Law was done with him. Who else would have the lizard so annoyed?

When Law opened the door nothing could have prepared him for what he saw. The first thing that hit him was the bright color of pink. The color instantly made his stomach drop. He appreciated Daz Bone’s attempt but there was nothing that could have made him ready to see this man. He stood there frozen as multiple emotions flashed through him, fear, anger, sadness, then anger again, in fact he should try to focus the most on that one.

“Ahhhh there you are my little Law fufufu, here I was worried you had been lost to your family forever.” He stood up opening his arms wide in a fake sense of welcome but Law could see through it easily.

He looked past him and to Crocodile, it was one of those times when he was wearing an unreadable expression, but he seemed entirely focused on the man in front of him. “What do you want?” Law found it in him to growl.

He saw the man’s smile slip for a moment before it was back in place. “Oh now, now, Law no need to be so hostile. I would think you would be happy that I found you again, after you were so rudely taken away from your family.”

Law felt his hands clench into fists, he was secretly thankful he was wearing his own spotted cap today instead of Cora’s. He took a deep breath. Doflamingo didn’t know he was there in the trunk that night, it would be better not to let him know about that.

“What do you want, Doflamingo?” He repeated again. He found it in him to move now, he was moving ever so slowly around towards Crocodile, he felt a weird sense of safety next to the man and he was really craving it right now. Especially since it felt like he was looking at a predator, one who wanted to eat him alive.

“When I heard about a boy with a spotted cap I hoped it would be you, and it looks like I was correct, though I am surprised to see you presented as an omega, it's of little consequence of course, though still surprising.” He waved off his own statement as if someone else had made it before he turned to Crocodile with fake gratitude. “I am truly thankful that Sir Crocodile here has taken care of you while you were lost, but it's time for you to come back to the family, little bird.” He turned back to Law now, his sunglasses gleaming eerily in the light. Law had made it to the other side of the desk now.

Law was sure that he had heard more than just that, he had probably heard that he was using the powers of the ope-ope-no-mi and that caused him to rush over. He grit his teeth hard to keep him from lashing out. He had to calm down, he couldn’t do anything to Doflamingo right now and if he let him know that he was after him it could ruin his plans for revenge before they even started. That was easier said than done as his blood was boiling from just looking at the man.

“I am perfectly fine here.” He grit out and he could see the other frown again at his response.

“Oh come now Law, don’t be like that. I looked for you everywhere you know? After I took care of that worthless traitor of course.” He said it like it was nothing, like killing his own brother meant nothing.

“Don’t call him that!” Law snapped, he could deal with a lot of things from Doflamingo, but him insulting Cora-san was not one of them. He didn’t care if he ruined anything anymore, he would not sit here and let him tarnish his memory.

“Fufufu oh come now Law, that's what he was after all, just a marine traitor. Don’t tell me you let him get into your head? Not after everything I have done for you?” He was standing tall over the desk now leering at him trying to be intimidating, but Law was standing tall too and did his best to glare back at him. “It’s time to come home where you belong, Law.”

“I refuse.” He said simply.

It looked like Doflamingo was going to say something else, but he felt Crocodile stand tall behind him. “You got your answer, now leave.”

Doflamingo turned his attention back to the warlord. “Oh come now Crocky, surely you aren’t really going to keep my protege from me?”

“I told you I would summon him so he could give you an answer himself, he did. I am sure you will survive without a teenager by your side or is there something else that would make it worth it to you to try to attack me in the middle of the desert?” Crocodile was smiling at him smugly as if daring Doffy to admit something.

The two of them stared at each other for another tense moment and Law swore he could feel an oppressive aurora fill the room before Doflamingo sighed dramatically and took a few steps toward his balcony. “Very well, as I said I didn’t come here to fight with you Crocky so I will leave with my answer for now.” He took a few more steps before turning to look at Law again. “This isn’t over little bird, I don’t know what lies that traitor filled your head with while you were with him, but you are mine, little omega.”

Law could feel his fingernails make his skin start to bleed with how hard he was clenching his fists. “Get out of here you oversized bird.” Crocodile admonished while seemingly casually smoking a cigar.

He gave Law one last look before he was on the balcony gracefully making his exit. Law stood there staring angrily at the place he had previously occupied until Crocodile went over and shut the balcony doors mumbling something about needing better locks on them.

Law stood there seething at Doflamingo’s words. When he heard the balcony doors shut it snapped him out of his trance. “How could you let him in here?!” Law yelled not holding back his anger anymore.

“The stupid bird just showed up on my balcony, as strong as I am, I really wasn’t looking for a fight if it could be avoided.” He seemed calm, way too calm for Law’s liking.

“How could you say that!? He killed Cora-san and you just let him in! You just sat there and didn’t do anything!?” Law was furious, he thought that Crocodile was like him, he thought that he had cared about Cora-san!

“Law, as much as I hate the pink bastard, it would be foolish to start a fight with someone so powerful for no reason.”

Maybe Law was being unfair but he didn’t care anymore. “No reason? NO REASON!?” He knew that Crocodile had protected him from Doflamingo but he still felt betrayed by the man. “How could you!? How could you just sit there calmly and do nothing while he just…” Law was pacing around now as he was fuming. “You just sat there and let him say those things!” 

“Law, you need to calm down.” 

“You need to be more angry!” Law could feel the anger guiding him now. “Did you even care about him at all? Why am I even here then, do you even care about me or is it just all for some stupid plan?!” He was breathing hard trying to wrap his mind around the last five minutes.

The other was quiet and Law assumed that was his answer. “Cora-san gave everything for me...How could you?” His anger was changing now, and he could feel his eyes getting hot. 

It looked like the other might say something but Law didn’t want to hear it, instead he took off running out of his office and down the hallway. He had to get away before his tears took control. He thought briefly about going outside but the last thing he wanted was to run into Doflamingo right now so instead he ran into his room slamming the door behind him. It may have been childish, but he didn’t care.

Tang immediately started to chirp when she saw him enter, though she was much bigger now and her chirps were deeper. She seemed rather upset that Law didn’t immediately come over to her and instead collapsed on his bed, so she took it upon herself to crawl clumsily out of her tank and over to him. 

Law grabbed a pillow holding it up to his face as he cried. He hadn’t let himself cry like this since Cora had died but after seeing Doflamingo and being so helpless in his presence, not to mention feeling betrayed by someone he thought he could trust, he just couldn’t hold it in anymore. He felt something nudge his leg and he looked down to see Tang’s curious wide eyes looking back at him. Law quickly pulled her up onto the bed and hugged her tight, ignoring the slight uncomfortable feeling of her harder leathery skin on his own.

He wasn’t sure how long he stayed like that until he heard the door to his room open. Law quickly tried to wipe the tears away before he turned to glare at the intruder. 

“Look kid, we need to talk.” It was Crocodile. 

“I have nothing to say to you.” Law bit back stubbornly.

“Good, then you can sit there and listen.” He came closer to him and Law heard Tang let out a sort of growling hissing sound. He petted her to tell her good job.

Crocodile seemed to be contemplating something as he took a drag of his cigar. “When I met Rosi we were both really young.” Law tensed, his eyes widening in shock. He didn’t know what he was expecting the man to say but it wasn’t this. “I met him in the beginning of his career, he was stationed on some no name ‘safe’ island in the East Blue. Probably trying to keep him out of trouble but he found me.” He heard him chuckle softly. “I met him because he would sneak away to the woods to feed the animals there, such a kindhearted fool.” It may have sounded like an insult but there was no malice behind it. Law actually almost smiled at the idea of Cora-san feeding animals, it sounded just like him. He remembered one time when they were traveling and low on food a stray dog came up to them begging and Cora-san had given him some of his food. Law lectured him on how it was wasteful and how he should have eaten it, but he just waved him off saying that he would be okay and that everyone deserved kindness once and awhile.

“He ended up saving me from an… unsavory situation and despite his… affiliations we became close. We both ended up staying on that island for a year or so until he was shipped off and it became time for me to leave.” He took another drag looking out into the distance. “We didn’t meet again until much later and at that point I was… different but that fool didn’t care. He just smiled that dumb smile and said he was happy for me.” He shook his head like he still couldn’t believe it. “When he told me about where he was headed and what he planned to do I… I tried to stop him. I just knew that Rosi was too kindhearted to take down someone like Doflamingo but he didn’t listen to me, he just said it was something he had to do, and I didn’t push. Maybe I should have but… well I suppose it matters very little now.”

Law wiped away his tears again, but they were still not stopping. He looked over at Crocodile. “Why tell me this?”

He sighed, still not looking at Law but taking a seat next to him on the bed. “Despite what you think I did care for that idiot. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have picked you up on that boat that day.” He took another drag. “I hate that fucking pink flamingo, I don’t want you to think otherwise, but I do not let my emotions rule me. Fighting with him here could have ruined everything I had built, and I wasn’t going to engage unless he instigated. It would have been foolish to pick a fight like that.”

Law sniffled and looked up at him. “If he had tried to take me, would you have fought him then?”

He heard the other sigh and he was quiet for a moment taking a few more drags. “I wouldn’t have let him take you.” He confirmed.

Law didn’t know why but him saying that caused a warmth to spread within him. This man before him really would have protected him, has protected him. Not only that but he had given Law a lot and asked him for really nothing in return. Law could tell from that story that he really did love Cora-san too, even if he knew the man was too prideful to admit such a thing. With tears streaming down his face Law then did something extremely risky, but his body sort of moved on its own. He leaned over and pushed his crying face against Crocodile’s side wrapping his small arms around him.

He felt the other tense up at the contact and Law honestly thought he was going to pull away but then he felt a large arm wrap around his shoulder and middle back, not too firmly but not loosely either. They stayed like that for a little bit as Law tried and failed to stop himself from crying. When he finally did manage to stop, he pulled himself away from the other man wiping his tears again. He noticed Tang had pulled her head into his lap again and was chirping looking up at him confused.

Law was about to apologize to the man for crying on his coat and for being weak, but he started talking first. “I think it's time that you knew about my plan here.” Law’s head whipped around his eyes wide, staring at the man in disbelief. He was the type to play his cards really close to his chest, he was pretty sure even Daz Bones didn’t know about Crocodile’s plan, he just followed orders. Him telling Law was a huge sign of trust, one that Law didn’t expect to receive. He was quiet as he listened making sure the man knew he had his full attention.

“What I want, in a simplistic sense, is to take over this country. I have several ways that I plan to undermine and create unrest with the current royalty here. The most important part going forward is to get the people on our side, we need to create an image of being heroes so when we do oust the current king the people accept us with open arms.” He took a drag again. “There is a lot more to it and I will explain it as it becomes more applicable, but that is my plan for this place.” He was now looking at Law, studying his face as if trying to see what he thought. “Will you help me achieve this goal?”

Law straightened his back looking at Crocodile with determination. “I will.”  He needed the other to know that he would help him with everything he had. He would help him, and he thinks it might be what Cora-san would have wanted. If he truly had his way, Law would have grown up in a boring life as a doctor in some small town but that was never a real possibility. He would like to think that if he could see him now, he would be happy that they were together. “Can I uhh ask you something?”

Crocodile didn’t confirm or deny simply staring at him and Law asked anyway. “Why here of all places? Is it just because of the sand or is there something else?”

He heard him chuckle as he stood up from the bed. “You're a smart kid.” He felt his hand on his head roughly messing up his hair. “There is something else here I want, something that only the king has access to.”

“I hate nobles.” Law grumbled  

“Me too kid.” He ruffled his hair one more time before Crocodile started to make his way out of Law’s room.

“You better be at training early tomorrow since you missed out on time today.”

Law just smirked at him as he watched him leave. He would be, he had a new goal after all. He would of course still take down Doflamingo but he had things he needed to help the Lizard with first. Besides, once he was strong enough to take over Alabasta he would be strong enough to take down Doflamingo. For now though, all he could do was to train. He held Tang a bit closer to him in his lap, and train he would. 

Chapter Text

A few years had passed, and Law had grown up quite a bit. He was 18 now and a lot taller than he was when he first arrived. He had been training with Daz Bones and some other associates pretty consistently and the progress was clear. One of the things he had been working on the most was his stamina. His fruit was tiring to use, and it relied heavily on his stamina. He was able to fight a lot longer in the heat now and he proudly was getting really close to beating Daz Bones though he still couldn’t quite get there.

Not only had he been training physically but he had been training his mind as well, doing what he could to increase his medical knowledge. The more knowledge he had the better he could utilize his fruit. As Crocodile had started to make his presence more known, saving towns from invading pirates and such, Law had started to help the citizens with his medical expertise, along with helping him to beat up pirates because that was just fun. He had earned himself quite the reputation around town and it only helped to increase their popularity. In fact, much to Law’s dismay they had just been summoned to the palace by the king himself to be thanked for all of their work.

Law honestly didn’t want to go, he hated royalty and didn’t see the point in this whole charade, but Crocodile made it clear if he didn’t go then he would replace all of his rice with bread, so he reluctantly agreed. He probably wouldn’t have done it, but he couldn't take the chance either way.

Law groaned as they traveled across the desert, why would anyone choose to live in this heat? He understood Crocodile because the man was literally made of sand and clearly was not affected by the temperature, not if his long heavy coat was anything to go by, but to Law it felt like they were traveling through sandy hell. It didn’t matter if he had been here for five years at this point, he still hated the heat with a passion. 

Law had started to wear Cora’s hat pretty much every day as he outgrew his old one. Crocodile offered to get him a new one, but he liked the idea of wearing Cora’s, it's not like it smelled like him anymore anyway, time had taken that from him as well. In contrast to the hat, he wore a white shirt with small black hearts on them. Normally he wore tank tops but he didn’t want his skin to burn off in the desert, so he settled for the long sleeve shirt today. 

When they arrived there, it was to an extremely warm welcome and Law smirked, happy to see that Crocodile’s plan was working. When they got outside the door to the king’s chamber Crocodile turned to him and gave him that look. “Behave while we are in there.”

Law rolled his eyes. “When do I not?”

“If you cut anyone open here, I swear I really will force you to eat sandwiches.”

Law glared and made sure to flip him off so the guards couldn’t see. He must be really nervous about this if he was bringing out the heavy threats.

“King Cobra will see you now.” The guard was dressed mostly in white but there were some black symbols on it. He also had some weird purple face paint around his eyes. Law briefly wondered if it was tattooed there.

The two of them were led in and Law saw the king sitting on his throne in the middle of the room. He felt himself frown at the sight which was in direct contrast to the friendly face Crocodile was putting on. “Ahhh welcome! I am so glad the two of you could make it! The kingdom of Alabasta owes you a great debt!” The king had a cylindrical black beard and long black curly hair. Law wondered why the man would have so much hair living in such a hot place. He was a bit surprised at the fact that he wasn’t wearing a crown and seemed to be dressed casually. He wasn’t one to be fooled though, all nobles were the same after all.

“It is truly our pleasure to be here, King Cobra.” Law had to resist the urge to roll his eyes at the level of fakeness Crocodile was giving off, the slight bow was already too much for him to deal with.

The king seemed pleased with it though, and soon he was laughing happily. “I must admit I did have a more selfish reason for calling you here, I have someone who wanted to meet you, you specifically, young man.”

Law frowned at the king and he felt Croc tense next to him. Great, was the king trying to marry him off to some alpha? He must have heard of Law’s medical prowess and wanted to keep him stuck in the capital. Before Law could say anything, he saw a small face peak around from behind his throne. Law tilted his head a bit confused, it was clearly a young girl, if her long blue hair was any indicator.

He then gestured to where she was peeking out. “This is my daughter Vivi.” The young girl took a few steps out from behind the throne, but she was staring nervously at Law. “She recently presented as an omega and has been having a hard time. I thought it would be good for someone like you to talk to her.”

Law opened his mouth to reject his offer. He wasn’t about to have some emotional talk with some royal brat he didn’t even know. Did this man think he was good with children or something because he was an omega? It was insulting if he was being honest. He was about to tell him so when Crocodile put a hand on his shoulder and spoke instead. “Law would be delighted to speak with your daughter, I am sure.” He squeezed his shoulder tightly as a warning when he heard Law grumbling under his breath.

“Sure.” He bit out though he was clearly not amused. The king didn’t seem to take offense, just laughing good naturedly. 

“Pell, why don't you take the two outside while I talk with Sir Crocodile here.” He gestured to the man with the face paint. Hmm so that was Pell the Falcon.

Law followed him and the young princess out into a courtyard a little bit away from the palace. Though he was a bit nervous being under the watchful eyes of one of the king's most trusted guards. He expected the girl to be shy and that he would have to think of something to say but to his surprise she turned to him with puffed out cheeks and an attitude.

“So, you're really an omega?” Law looked at her a bit confused before he nodded. “But you have a sword and fight pirates and stuff!”

Law let out a low grumble before he took a deep breath and reminded himself, he was dealing with royalty, not some annoying kid on the street. “What does that have to do with anything?” He was really trying not to glare.

“Well, everyone says that omegas can’t fight and that all they are good for is laying on their backs and making babies!” She said confidently.

Law felt his eyes widen hearing these words come out of a ten-year-old. He even heard Pell seemingly choking on air at the words. “Is… is that so?” Law thought he was getting a clearer picture of what was going on here. “And is that what you want to do?”  A bold question to ask a ten-year-old princess but this whole conversation was already weird as hell.

She wrinkled her nose. “No, I think it's stupid! I want to be strong and fight bad people!”

Law chuckled at her statement, and she puffed out her cheeks again at him about to get defensive. “Then what is stopping you?” This seemed to kill her angry momentum. 

“Wh-what?” She asked, confused looking up at him with wide eyes. 

“What's stopping you from doing those things?” He asked her again.

“People said that…”

“Screw people.” Law saw her eyes get wide as she looked up with him in awe. “People are always going to tell you, you can’t do things, but you don’t have to listen to them. Being an omega just means people are always going to underestimate you, but in a fight, you can use that to your advantage.”

“You think it can be an advantage?” She asked innocently.

“Of course, the only thing standing in your way is yourself. Fuck other people.”

“Yeah, fuck other people!” She yelled back enthusiastically. He could hear Pell groaning and he had forgotten he was there for a moment. He really hoped his words were not going to get a Crocodile in any trouble. “I will get really strong and then I will be the first omega to rule over a country!”

Law actually felt himself freeze up at that though he quickly forced himself to relax. An omega ruler huh? That was something he would like to see. It was unfortunate it wouldn’t be happening here though.

“Sure kid.” He said placatingly.

She jumped in front of him in excitement, grabbing his hands. “You're my friend now okay! That means that you can help me to get strong!” She seemed very determined if nothing else.

“I uhhh.” Law didn’t really know what to say, not only that he wasn’t really a fan of physical contact.

“Come on, I want to show you something.” She released one of his hands but held on tightly to the other as she dragged him away.  He looked to Pell for some help, but he just laughed and followed at a distance while she dragged him around. To his surprise she brought him out of the castle and dragged him down the street. Again, he looked back to Pell to stop her, but he was absolutely no help, and he resigned himself to being dragged along by a child.

Much to his mortification she dragged him into a courtyard filled with other children. Before he could run away like he wanted she stepped in front of him and yelled at the children at the top of her lungs. “This is Law, and he is an omega too and he is really awesome and strong, and he beats up pirates and saves people!”

Law was honestly stunned trying to wrap his mind about what was going on. “That's dumb Vivi I told you that I can protect you! It's my job as an alpha!” A young boy stepped forward, he had a similar hat to Pells but you couldn't see any of his hair.

“I don’t need you to protect me Koza! I can protect myself!” She protested, stomping her foot. “Law told me I can be strong, and I don't have to listen to you!”

The kid stepped forward glaring at Law now and he could see the fire in his eyes. “Oh yeah well I will just have to beat him up and then I will show you that you should let me protect you!”

“I did not come here to fight any children.” Law protested trying to take a step back.

“See he is just a scared omega!” The kid yelled and Law felt his small amount of self-control snap.

“Okay that's it, you want to fight kid? Try me!” Vivi was smiling happily, and she skipped to the side.

The kid lunged at him and Law easily moved to the side and happily watched him fall in the dirt. He wasn’t deterred though, and he got back up immediately trying his best to hit Law. He was enjoying dodging him, but he knew he had to do something to drive the point home to this snot nosed alpha. This time when Law stepped out of the way he brought his sword forward, sheathed of course, and smacked the kid hard in the stomach. He flew back and hit the side of the building. He coughed a bit, but he stood up trying to regain his balance. He stepped forward to strike again but this time Law easily tripped him with his sword then held the sheathed point to his stomach.

“Your dead kid.” He said, smirking at him, enjoying his anger. His enjoyment was short lived though as soon a cloud of sand was swirling around them and Law quickly put his sword back on his back.

“Are you seriously fighting with children?” He could tell the other was not amused at all.

“He started it.” Law defended weakly.

“Law.” He heard the sharp tone, and he realized he probably did take things too far. 

Vivi, ignoring Law’s inner turmoil, jumped in between him and Crocodile. “Wow, that was so cool!! You are really awesome!!” He could see her eyes sparkling at him. “Thank you for hanging out with me today and for showing me how strong an omega can be! I want to be just like you!”

He could hear the young alpha boy grumbling on the ground, but Law didn’t pay him any mind instead he was looking at Vivi in complete shock. She wanted to be like him? Why would anyone in their right mind want that? He was about to open his mouth to tell her as much, but Crocodile beat him to talking. 

“Well thank you little princess, I am glad you had fun with Law today.” She beamed up at him as well.

“Thanks for letting him hang out with me, please bring him back soon, okay?!”

Crocodile looked as surprised at the request as Law felt, though he was sure he was the only one who noticed. The change in his expressions were always so subtle Law could only tell because he had been staring at them for the past five years. “Sure, that could be arranged.” Law glared at him over the girl's head. He was not about to be some sort of royal babysitter. “Unfortunately, it is time for us to take our leave now.”

The princess frowned before turning to Law. “Bye Law, come back soon okay!?” She then launched herself at him, hugging him around the middle.

“Uhh sure.” He confirmed patting her a few times then trying to nicely get her off of him. Thankfully Pell did come to his rescue this time.

“Okay princess time to let him go.” She reluctantly listened and released Law and Law found himself taking a few steps behind Crocodile hoping to avoid that happening again.

“Don’t be too hard on him.” Pell leaned into whisper to Crocodile. “I haven’t seen the princess this happy since she presented. He did a good job today.”

“Yes, well, that's great to hear. Give the king my thanks again.” With that much to Law’s relief the two of them were soon leaving the city.

Law hoped what Crocodile had walked in on would be dropped but he wasn’t so lucky. “Really Law? fighting children?” He admonished though he seemed much more relaxed. 

“I hate bone headed alphas regardless of their age, especially when they start spouting off that stupid superior bullshit.” He defended.

He heard the other chuckle. “You did good today kid, the little princess seems to really like you.”

Law rolled his eyes. “As if I care what some royal thinks.”

“Still, it will be helpful to stay on the royal family's good side, well for now at least.” Law scoffed at the implications.

“Just please don’t make me babysit again.”

“No promises.” Law glared at him as hard as he could, not wanting to admit to himself or Crocodile that he may have had a little bit of fun today. “I think we should have onigiri for dinner tonight.”

Law smirked, onigiri was definitely a sign of a job well done. “Yeah whatever.”

As they walked back to their base his mind wandered to the little princess. He hoped that she would get strong one day so she could show up that alpha like Law had and stand on her own. It was a shame she would never get to rule but if she got strong enough Law was sure that she would end up okay.

Chapter Text

Law jumped to the right narrowly avoiding a strike, then back to the left. He noticed the man left himself open when he lunged; he just had to be patient and then…. NOW

Law lunged forward bringing his sword up and cut the man right in half. He was alright of course but the joy that flowed through Law was immeasurable. He had done it, he had finally beaten Daz Bones. Despite the surprise of being cut in half the man smiled up at Law.

“Look at you, you finally won.” Law was practically beaming as he put him back together. It had taken him five years but he had beaten him. He had finally beaten him! Law really wasn’t one to outwardly show a lot of emotions but he was smiling wider than he ever had at his feeling of accomplishment. 

The man walked over and pat Law on the back a bit rough, but he could tell he was proud. “You should go let him know.”

Law suddenly felt a little embarrassed about the prospect. “You-ah think I should?”

He nodded “I think he would be very interested.”

“Yeah… maybe I will then.” With that Law found himself wandering off towards the casino. He knew Crocodile would probably be in his downstairs office at this time. He liked to hang out surrounded by the banana gators when he had some spare time.

Much to his amusement he did find them down there, unfortunately when he entered another was more excited about it. Tang jumped out of the water and started waddling towards him, she was a lot bigger than Law was now, but it didn’t stop her from wanting to put her head on his lap. He smiled and allowed her to plow into him, knocking him over. He pet her as a hello, making sure to get that spot on the side of her head that she liked so much.

“Did you cut training just to come see your pet?” He heard the warlord call over to him teasingly.

Law didn’t know why but he felt a bit nervous. “No actually I uhh came to see you.” Crocodile looked up from where he was sitting reading in confusion.

“Why is something wrong?”

“No uhh nothing like that, it's just I wanted to tell you that I um beat Bones-ya in training today.” He tried his best to make it sound like it wasn’t a big deal.

He saw a wide smile stretch across the man’s face as he stood up and walked over to him. “That is fantastic to hear… now we can start the next phase.”

Law stopped petting Tang and stood back up. “The next phase?” 

“I want you to officially join Baroque works.”

Law felt his eyes widen, so far even though Law knew what Crocodile’s plans were, he had kept him pretty separate from their comings and goings. In fact besides Daz Bones, he wasn’t even sure of who was involved and who wasn't.

“You will need a code name though, I want all the men to be numbers so you could be-”

“Heart.” Law said confidently, throwing off the warlord.

“That's not a number.”

Law rolled his eyes. “I know that but,” He tugged on Cora’s hat. “That's what I want to be.”

The warlord sighed, though Law did detect some fondness hidden in there, and walked over putting his arm around Law. “Fine, fine, Heart then. I suppose that works since we don't have anyone for you to partner with yet anyway.”

“I would much rather work alone.”

“I am sure you would kid, but some missions will be better to have support.” he rolled his eyes but didn’t argue.

“We should celebrate tonight at dinner, I will break out the good wine.” He pat him on the back.

Law felt himself blush just a little, the man had never offered him a drink before. It was sort of like he finally saw him as an adult.

“Yeah, sounds good.” He tried his best to sound casual about it. Crocodile let him go and returned to his reading.

“Make sure you feed Tang before you go.” Law nodded though there was no future, regardless of what Croc asked of him, that Tang would let him get out of this room without giving her a snack. She was ‘spoiled and fat’ as Croc liked to tease him though he never did anything about it.

Law fed her much to her delight and made sure to give her some extra scratches before he left. When he did he felt different than before, though he knew nothing had physically changed about him. It was weird, right now Law felt like he could take on the world.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few more years passed and Law was becoming very effective at his job, in fact he was equally feared for his use of his sword as he was praised for his medical skills. He was doing his best to play the good doctor and continue to incur Crocodile’s favor with the people while he also kept up his skills as a Baroque works agent. He honestly enjoyed both tasks pretty equally, that was until…

“Ah good Heart you are back.” Crocodile greeted him as he got home from a mission. He handed over the item he had asked him to retrieve and his smirk grew even bigger. “I have someone I would like you to meet.”

He tilted his head over his shoulder and Law noticed there was a woman sitting there. She looked to be a few years older than Law, she had short black hair and piercing blue eyes which were directed curiously at him. “This is Miss All Sunday, she will be your partner.”

Law did his best not to roll his eyes in front of the woman, but it was hard. “I thought we agreed it was better if I worked alone.” He tried to argue politely.

“No, that was something you said but was not agreed upon.”

Law just frowned. “I don’t need a partner.”

“Everyone needs someone to watch their back.” He insisted.

“Then who is watching yours? I thought that was my job?” Law was really trying his best to get out of this.

“Not for right now, right now this is your job.” They were both staring at each other continuing their silent argument until one of them gave in.

“Fine.” It was Law.

“Good. The two of you can head out tomorrow. There is an island nearby that I think will be very useful for us. I will send you the report tonight to read over.” He reached into his pocket and brought a cigar to his mouth, lighting it.

“Fine whatever.” He wasn’t thrilled about it, but he knew further argument was useless. He started to leave the room when he smirked, having a small idea for revenge. He took a wanted poster he had picked up, folded it and rolled it up tightly before activating his room and switching it for his cigar.

“Brat!” He heard him call as Law put out the cigar on the wall. 

“Smoking kills Lizard-ya.” Then he smartly shambled himself away before he got caught up in the man's sand.

He made sure to go to the underground chamber to see Tang before going up to his room to relax. He had been away for a few days in a neighboring town taking care of some doctor business and Baroque Works business and he knew she had missed him. He made sure to spoil her just a bit extra because he knew he was about to be away for a few days again on this mission.

He honestly didn’t know why Crocodile was so insistent that he have a partner, he was strong enough without one. He had never had an issue before that he couldn’t handle on his own, why did he think he needed someone now? Also could he have come up with a shorter nickname for her? Miss All Sunday was such a mouth full. 

Tang now had her whole head on his lap as he fed her some very fine cuts of steak. He smirked a bit thinking that she definitely ate better than he had for most of his life. He was just scratching her behind her little banana the way she liked when he realized he was not alone in the room. He turned to glare at whoever had entered and he saw it was this Miss All Sunday person. She looked a little surprised to see him there and in such a position. Normally Law would have gotten up but with him finally scratching ‘the good spot’ there was no way he would be released anytime soon so instead he settled for glaring.

“What do you want?” Just because they were going to be partners didn’t mean Law had to be nice.

“Mr. 0 sent me down to retrieve some paperwork for him, I had no idea you would be down here.” Law studied her face, she didn’t seem to be lying so he turned away giving his attention back to the needy reptile in front of him. “She seems rather taken with you.”

Law looked back over, and the woman definitely had an amused look in her eye as she was looking at him. 

He frowned back. “She just likes me because I feed her.” Law tried to dismiss her acting like it was nothing.

“And scratch her I see.”

“Is there something you needed?” He glared back at her again but it didn’t seem to phase her.

“No nothing, nothing at all.” She looked at him with a smile that was too knowing for his liking before she grabbed her papers and disappeared back through the door.

As he watched her go he silently vowed that he was not going to like that woman.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next day came way too fast and it was already time for them to leave on their mission. Crocodile had essentially wanted them to employ the people of Whiskey Peek. It was an island on the Grandline before Alabasta, this way they could keep better track of who was coming and going and maybe even cash in on some pirate bounties. It was a really good plan and it helped to add a level of control to the Alabasta situation that he didn’t have before. If he knew one thing about Crocodile it was that he liked as much control over a situation as possible.

Law met the woman in the harbor on a small boat, they had a navigator and a cook on board but otherwise it was just the two of them. It was just as well because Law liked his time alone. If he couldn’t see them, he could just pretend he was alone on this mission.

For the first part of the day he sat at the bow of the boat enjoying the sea and a book he had picked up about ‘barbaric’ medical practices in the Grandline. So far it was a very good read, it was giving Law some ideas for some practical applications with his fighting.

It was all going well until a shadow fell over his book. He looked up to see Miss All Sunday. “Seems like an interesting read.”

Law narrowed his eyes. “It was.”

She laughed quietly, seemingly not offended. “We should discuss our tactics, don't you think?”

Law sighed, closing his book. “Do you honestly want to work together?”

“Oh I don't know, I don’t mind it so much”

Law was surprised at that, he hadn’t exactly been the nicest to her.  “Fine, whatever.” He gave her his attention.

“I reviewed the material and I think perhaps talking to the mayor there would be a good first move, though from the reports I don’t think he will be easily swayed.”

Law gave her an appraising look, he happened to agree with her. “I agree that it is worth a try, but I think removing him from power would probably be the smartest choice. Everyone else should fall in line pretty easily after that.”

“His bodyguards could be trouble.” Her eyes now drifted to the ocean momentarily.

Law snorted. “I think we should be fine.”

She looked at him curiously but didn’t comment on his confidence. “So why Heart? I thought all of the men were numbered.”

Law studied her carefully. “The hat.” He wasn’t lying really so he hoped it wouldn’t read as such. “Miss All Sunday sure is a mouthful.” He tried to redirect her attention.

“It most certainly is, wasn’t my first choice but I will survive.” She said politely. 

Law studied her carefully then he looked over his shoulder to make sure no one was close. “What's your real name then, since it's such a mouthful?”

He saw her stiffen up at that, her eyes becoming more critical. “I believe there are code names for a reason.”

“Sure, whatever.” He was no longer interested in the conversation, and he opened his book back up. He could just ask Crocodile when they got back anyway.

She seemed to have gotten the hint and she left him alone. Law was thankful for it, he preferred solitude. He also didn’t like the way she was asking him questions, it was almost like she wanted to get to know him or something, very suspicious.

Honestly he was still annoyed with her presence to begin with, it was like Crocodile didn’t trust him. Hadn’t he more than proved himself over the years? He wondered briefly if it was because he was an omega, but he shook that thought off, it had never mattered to the man before. It was then that a small voice spoke up in his mind. Maybe he was just worried about him? He almost wanted to scoff at that thought but something held him back. Maybe he wasn’t so far off the mark, the man was extremely paranoid, maybe he just wanted to make extra sure nothing happened to Law. Either way he was going to get to the bottom of it when he got back home.

That thought made him almost drop his book. Home… did he… consider what he had in Alabasta a home? I mean he had his own room, a very cute pet, some people who for the most part enjoyed his presence and he also had… whatever Crocodile was.

He almost audibly groaned at his thoughts, it really wasn't good to spiral like this before a mission. He opened his book back up in a huff, vowing to just focus on reading, he didn’t have time for any confusing thoughts he needed to focus on the task at hand. 

Chapter Text

When they arrived Law did his best to show his confidence, draping his sword over his shoulder seemingly casually. As an omega he always had to show he was strong, he couldn’t show any weakness, or it would be taken advantage of. Miss All Sunday was walking next to him, her eyes were on the crowd, just watching.

Law got the feeling that she was a lot smarter than she let on, he would have to be careful of that. 

As they got to the town hall Law noticed that there were a lot of expensive decorations around, especially when they got further into the building. To no one's surprise inside his office was the worst culprit, second to only to what Law assumed his home looked like. 

The mayor himself was a sight to see, he was dressed in all white, very round in the middle, and was covered in various types of jewelry. Clearly this man would be much easier to bribe than originally thought, but that in and of itself could be a problem. He pushed those thoughts to the side as they entered his office. Both of them electing to stand instead of to sit in the provided chairs. 

This seemed to give the man pause but only for a moment as a big fake political smile was soon on his face. The smile just made Law’s mood even worse, reminding him of the person he hated most in this world. “Well, I was excited to hear that Mr. 0 wanted to have this meeting with me. I too feel that we could both benefit from a partnership.”

He was talking directly to Law, completely ignoring the woman next to him. “Yes, well that is why we are here, to see if that's the case.” The more Law talked to him the more Law was sure there wouldn’t be a deal.

“Ahh splendid, splendid.” He walked around the desk to shake Law’s hand. “My name is Reginold Walters, and it is my pleasure to… to.” He started sniffing the air around Law in confusion. “You're an omega?” He dropped Law’s hand instantly.

“Is that a problem?” Law shifted his sword to his other shoulder menacingly, but it seemed this man was oblivious to the threat.

“You damn right it's a problem!” He walked back around to his side of the desk in a huff. “I thought Mr. 0 was taking this deal seriously! Instead, he sends a beta woman and a male omega to do the deal? How disrespectful!”

Law felt his grip on his sword tighten so much he was sure his knuckles were white from the strain. “Regardless of your uneducated and incorrect opinions, I am Mr. 0’s right hand man and I will be treated with respect, or you will regret it.”

The man snorted. “As if I would believe that. Omegas are only good for one thing, now if Mr. 0 sent you here to offer to warm my bed that is a different story.”

He did not like the way this man was looking at him. Law was actually going to kill him, fuck making this deal Law was going to slice him up without his room. He was about to pull out his sword when all of a sudden hands grew out of the man's chair pulling him down and holding menacingly onto his neck.

“Well, it seems that we won't be able to come to a deal after all. I don’t think Baroque Works would want to work with someone so vile anyway.” She said it so sweetly, but he could see the anger in her eyes. He paused looking at her in confusion for just a moment. Was that anger for him?

“Gu-ards!” He tried to yell out, but it was hard with the hands choking him. Suddenly two very big alpha men came in, each of them holding a barbed bat-like weapon. 

Robin looked a bit apprehensive but Law was smirking. God, he loved to cut up the big alpha men, the bigger the better. As typical the two charged in at him, expecting their strength to easily overwhelm him. Law just smirked, switching places with one of the alphas causing them to run into each other. As they fell to the floor Law cut them into several pieces with his sword, enjoying their surprised screams.

He then turned to the older alpha who was still restrained in the chair. His attitude seemed to have drastically changed as he took in the scene before him. “Please, please, I was kidding before! I didn’t mean it! Please spare my life!” 

Law scoffed at his begging, and omegas were supposed to be the pathetic ones. “You're disgusting.” Law spat glaring at him.

“Well Mr. Walters. It appears we are unable to come to an agreement. This can end in one of two ways. You can either die here right now, or you can run away to another island with your tail between your legs like the coward that you are. Your choice.” The smile she gave him made even Law shiver a bit.

“Please I will leave tonight! Just don’t kill me please!” He was crying so badly there was snot running down his nose. A truly pathetic sight. 

“Leave tonight, you better be long gone when we come back later.” Law said and she released him, and he fell to the floor.

“Thank you, thank you!” He was crawling to a safe in the corner of the room.

Law didn’t want to spend another moment in this place, and he turned to leave, stepping over the pieces of alpha that were laying on the floor. He didn’t check to see if Sunday was behind him, he weirdly trusted that she would be. 

When they got onto the street the two of them walked in silence for a few blocks. “Well, that was fun.” He said sarcastically, earning himself a small laugh.

“Sorry for losing my cool in there.” She offered back.

“Nah don’t worry about it, I was about to lose my own anyway and it would have led to a much bloodier outcome, so it was probably for the best.” He was watching the faces of the people in this town as he passed them. Most of them looked tired, overworked. Makes sense seeing as the one ruling them was wealthy and fat.

“We should figure out who would be the best to replace the mayor.” Law’s eyes were wandering to a group of young men gathered around in hushed voices behind a building.

“I think we should split up for a bit, gather some information. We can reconvene at the boat later before we go to clear out the mayor’s office of any pests.” It sounded like a good plan, Law could use some time on his own anyway. 

“Sure, meet up in a few hours then?” She nodded and he smirked at her. “I bet I find better information than you do anyway.” He didn’t know what came over him, but he just felt like teasing her a little bit.

“Hmm we will see.” She smiled at him before disappearing into the crowd. 

At least if he was going to be forced to have a partner, he was stuck with someone tolerable and competent. It could be worse. It was weird that she stood up for him. He tried not to let it mean anything but so few people had ever done such a thing for him. It was hard not to like her after that, even if only slightly. 

Law focused his information gathering efforts in the brothels but not in the way one might expect. Instead, he tried to talk to the omegas in these places. They were often forgotten and people let loose a lot of information when they didn’t realize who was listening. He always found that sex workers had the best information, they were usually very easy to bribe for it as well, especially being a fellow omega. It was, funnily enough, something that Crocodile had told him long ago.

He had gotten a few names from them, but he would have to see what he thought of these people when he met them. In the meantime he should get back to the boat to wait for Robin. He walked through the streets of the small town, just watching the citizens. Sometimes he wondered what he would have been like if he got to live a normal life. Who would he be now if it wasn’t for amber lead? Maybe his parents would have married him off to some alpha? He almost snorted at the thought. Law would never be interested in any alpha, ever! He didn’t care how bad his heat was, or how loud his instincts screamed at him he would never let an alpha claim him and he would never bond with anyone. Not if he had a choice in the matter.

He had never met a tolerable alpha in his life anyway and he truly didn’t think that one existed at this point. It didn’t matter if one did though, Law would never give up his freedom.

He got to the boat and looked around realizing he was first. That wasn't a problem, he leaned against the railing looking out into the sea as the sunset. He rested his hand on his hat, pulling it on a bit tighter. His mind ran to Cora-san, as it often did when he was alone. He wondered if they would still have come to Alabasta if he had survived, if his life would have been like this? Would Cora have stayed with Crocodile? Would he still be where he was now?

He shook his head. None of that mattered anyway, it was pointless to think of what if’s. Law lived in reality; it wasn’t a good idea to get too caught up in the world of fantasy. It wouldn’t bring any of them back, it didn’t change that Law was sitting here alone without them.

Law heard a noise and sighed. Hopefully the cook was back, Law was starving. He got up and turned the corner only to be met with a bat. He tried his best to get out of the way, but the other was ready for him, and he hit his torso sending him flying across the boat. He got to his feet quickly, but the other alpha was there waiting and he quickly grabbed Law holding him tightly and pulling his arms behind him.

Damn it! He was careless; he never should have let his guard down on a mission. He was an idiot. He tried to take some deep breaths forcing his mind to focus. He would be okay, he just needed to get a bit looser than he could use his room.

“Well, well, we meet again.” Law glared at the voice recognizing it immediately, he always remembered the voice of someone who pissed him off that badly. The mayor stepped onto the boat from the dock. “It appears that you are at my mercy this time.”

Law did not like the superior glint in his eye. He struggled more against the alpha holding him, but his grip seemed strong. He would need a distraction, just a moment or two then he could get his room up.

“Well now Mr. Heart was it? I think you might find it appropriate to renegotiate our deal from before, especially now that you find yourself in a… less than optimal position.”

“The moment I get out of here, and I will get out of here, I am going to remove your head from your shoulders.” Law hissed out at him, almost like a feral cat.

“See now, that doesn't seem too interesting to me. Dango if you would please?” Suddenly Law was moved to where he was hanging over the side of the boat now. He tried not to let the panic show in his face. If the alpha let go of him, he would drown, sure Crocodile would come back and slowly murder this man but more importantly he would be dead and at the hand of some stupid alpha. “I think you should at least hear me out.”

Law stared at him unamused but didn't say anything.

“Now then, I would like to not only remain in control of this town, but I would also like to retain 70-no 75% of the profits personally, your agents can split the rest.” He could see the greed reflected in his eyes as he smirked at him. “I also meant what I said earlier about you warming my bed. I think it's only appropriate you do to apologize for earlier.” There was no way he would ever agree to that deal. He could just lie and agree and then kill them the second he was released but he didn’t like the idea of letting this man think he had won, not even if just for a minute.

So instead of the smart thing Law looked him dead in the eye and spit on the ground between them. “Go to hell.” 

“Have it your way then, not surprised though, Omegas are rather emotional.” Law felt his eye twitch, he would show them just how emotional he could be when he slowly removed their organs one by one. He gestured to the alpha and he held him out further over the water. Law prepared himself, he wasn't in cuffs so if he could time it just right, he could probably open up a room and switch himself with one of them. It would have to be the quickest he had ever done it, he couldn't afford to hesitate for even half a second. 

He felt the hands release him and he immediately expanded his room. He tried his best, but the boat was small and he wasn’t far enough away from the water. Before he could get his room to expand enough he was almost face first into the water. He panicked and closed his eyes as he was about to hit the water, but he felt something grab him, holding him just above the surface.

His eyes shot open expecting to see the alpha from before but to his surprise he saw a pair of arms emerging out of the boat holding onto him. He barely took time to register what was happening before he continued to expand his room and switched himself with the larger alpha on board, he was extremely satisfied when he heard a splash below. 

He wasted no time in immediately cutting up the remaining alpha leaving his body parts strewn across the ground as he stepped over them towards the now shocked mayor. Law was practically seething in anger. He barely registered Miss Sunday hopping onto the boat cutting off his escape route. 

“Wait we-we can still talk about this we can-”

“I am afraid negotiations have concluded.” Law said, tilting his sword so it caught the moonlight. The coward quickly pulled out a gun and aimed it at his partner. “I will shoot her! I will-” Law didn’t give him time to finish as he was soon lunging at the man. The gun went off and Law switched the bullet with a pebble on the dock just in time causing it to go uselessly into the wood there. He continued his stroke down with his sword, separating the head from his body, the remaining of his limbs soon followed. 

He looked down at the writhing mass of limbs unamused, then he created a room and used tact to throw them overboard, not sparing them an extra glance. They would either pull themselves together or they would become fish food, either way it was of no concern to Law. If he had his way, he would never see any of them again. 

There was something however that was confusing him. He turned to look at Miss Sunday who was watching him from her spot across the boat. They stood there just studying each other for a moment. “You saved my life.” She remarked seemingly lacking emotion.

“You saved mine.” Law returned in equal measure. There was a quiet between the two of them, but not an uncomfortable one.

“Guess that makes us even then.” She offered.

“Yeah… something like that.” It wasn’t like that for Law though, the fact that she saved him made him feel… odd. There had only been a certain number of people who had cared about him in his life and even less who would have risked their lives for him, that's what she did though. Law had saved her too, if he had had a different devil fruit she could have ended up shot. In fact, she probably would have. She smiled softly back at him as if somehow knowing his thoughts

“I guess this whole partner thing could be worse.” He admitted softly.

“I would say so.”

Law turned and went into the cabin still a bit annoyed at their lack of a cook, but he grabbed a bottle of wine and two glasses from below. When he came back up, he could see a curious glint in her eye. “A drink to our partnership?” Law suddenly felt a bit silly, but he was pretty sure that was something you were supposed to do when you formed an alliance with someone.

She accepted pouring them both a drink and coming to sit on a barrel next to him. “How very classy of you.” Law could hear the amusement in her voice as she did so.

He accepted the glass and they both held it in front of them. “We are supposed to toast or something right?” Law thought back to when Crocodile had drunken wine with him the night he officially joined his organization. He had made a toast to Law and to their partnership, maybe he should do the same.

“I believe that is how it goes.” She was clearly content to wait for Law to speak first.

Law obliged, holding up his glass. “Well then cheers to this new partnership?”

“Cheers.” She echoed clinking her glass against his.

They sat there, each of them sipping on their drinks quietly for a moment before speaking. “So why did you save my life?” He wanted to know, her answer would be very telling.

She looked away from him and out over the horizon. “Oh, I don’t know, I just thought it would be a shame for someone like you to die is all.” It was an answer, and it wasn’t, truly Law didn’t expect anything less from the woman sitting next to him. “I could ask you the same thing.”

Law didn’t know what to say back, he hadn’t really thought about saving her, he had just acted on instinct. He was just doing what he could in the moment. “I was just reacting to the situation, saving you was simply a reflex.”

She laughed slightly as if she was enjoying her own joke. “Well, I am happy for your reflexes then.”

Law grumbled pretty sure she was making fun of him as he took another sip. “Forgive me for asking but I have been rather curious.” Law raised an eyebrow at her. “Are you… Sir Crocodile’s son?”

Law almost spit out the wine he was sipping, and he had to cough a few times to clear his airways. “What *cough* gave you that *cough* impression?”

She looked a bit unsure, but she pushed on. “Well it's just how he… reacts to you is different from the rest. He has a patience with you that I have not seen him use otherwise.“ Law took that into consideration, he supposed he did like to push the old lizard's boundaries every once and while. “Also, there is the peculiarity of your nickname.”

He felt his cheeks heat up. “I choose it, not him.” Law felt the need to clarify. He didn’t realize before that calling himself heart in relation to Crocodile might imply something deeper than he meant to.

“He still allowed you to keep it.”

Law fidgeted a little nervously before mentally stilling his hand. “Croc isn’t my dad, he is like my…” Law let himself trail off, but he really didn’t know how to finish that sentence, a part of him didn’t want to think about it too hard. “We have just been traveling together for a long time.”

She nodded and Law was relieved the line of questioning was over. “Can I ask you something now? You don’t have to answer, I suppose but…” She nodded. “What is your real name?” She looked at him quietly studying his face. “You don’t uhh have to tell me if it's some big secret or something or-.”

“Nico Robin.” Law could tell she was looking for recognition on his face and he was sure she found it. Of course Law knew who she was, thinking back even though her last wanted poster was her as a child he felt a bit foolish for not recognizing her, how could he not recognize another sole survivor of the world government.

“Is that a problem?” She asked hesitantly. 

“No! I- uh… no it's not.” He didn’t know what to say, you can’t just bring something like that up to someone. Ironically this may be the one person in the world who could understand him, but he just didn’t know where to start. 

He instead thought more about her presence here and about what Crocodile might be after, some more of the pieces started to slip into place. “Thanks for telling me, I hated that code name.”

She smiled at him, but Law could see that she appeared to be a bit more guarded than she had been. “Well, it has been a long day, let's get some sleep and deal with things in the morning.”

Law saw her walking away and he wanted to say something, but he wasn’t sure what. “I hate the world government too! Just uhh so you know.” Law was pleased to see a surprised look in her face as she looked at him less guarded than a few moments ago.

“Glad to see we have that in common.” She looked at him appraisingly once more before disappearing below deck.

Nico Robin huh? He found himself thinking as he finished the last little bit in his glass. If reading the poneglyphs was a part of Crocodiles plan well… Law couldn’t approve more. He loved the middle finger it sent to the world government. Things were about to get interesting around here, that was for sure.

Chapter Text

Things had been going much… smoother with Robin as his partner though he hated to admit it. Together they had easily chosen someone to insert as a puppet mayor and Whiskey peak was under their control. Law found he didn’t mind working with her as much as he thought he would, she was surprisingly competent and efficient. Not to mention she knew a lot about history and every once and awhile on missions she would indulge him and tell him some interesting facts or anecdotes about something she had been studying. History wasn’t really his forte, but he appreciated the knowledge she had on the subject, not to mention he always did like to learn. It was also good to have knowledge in areas besides just medicine. 

Despite this recent 'smoothness', Law had started to feel an itch under his skin. Especially when he thought about Cora-san. As time went on Law was starting to forget more and more about the man, he could barely remember what his voice sounded like now. He had already lost those memories of his own family, he didn’t want to lose his memories of Cora-san too. There was something he had been thinking about, something he wanted to do to have a permanent reminder. The hat had been enough at first but as time went on Law wanted something more, something etched into his skin so he couldn’t forget. He wanted the reminder every time he looked at himself, the reminder of all who had died for Law to get here, for what they had sacrificed for him.

It wasn’t hard for Law to find a place to do what he wanted, the casino had drawn in a wide array of people to their city, and he was going to take advantage of that fact.

As he walked into the shop the alpha behind the counter called a lazy greeting to him but when their eyes met, and he realized who Law was he stood up straight giving him his full attention and respect.

“Good morning Mr. Heart sir, what can I do for you?” Law could smell the nervousness coming off of this Alpha and he would be lying to say he didn’t enjoy it.

“This is a tattoo shop, yes? I think you can summarize the nature of my visit.” Law couldn’t help but to be a dick, being around alphas brought that out in him.

The man seemed taken aback by that response, but he soon gained his mental footing again. “Uh yes sir, you-uh that is to say you want a tattoo?” Law couldn’t blame him for his confusion, he supposed, an omega wanting a tattoo was sort of a strange request.

“I do, multiple in fact.” Law threw a wad of berry on the counter and saw the man’s eyes widen slightly before he tried to compose himself again.

“Uh wow that is quite generous.” He moved to grab it but Law put down Kikoku’s sheathed side just in front of him blocking his hand.

“Do a good job and maybe you will even get a tip, do a bad one and well….” Law purposely trailed off looking at his sword enjoying the smell of fear in the air again.

“Of course sir, I take great pride in my work! I will provide you the best service that-”

“Yeah, yeah, I am sure.” Law waved him off before producing some papers from his pockets with the drawings he had done and withdrawing his sword. The papers had the tattoos he wanted on them, but he had also drawn an anatomical model on it to indicate the size and position. “This is what I want, can you do it or not?”

To his credit Law could tell the man was studying the designs carefully. “Yes, not too complicated, I should be able to do these without much of a fuss. I am assuming you want black lines and no shading done?”

Law nodded his eyes studying the alpha.

“Okay well.” He gathered up the papers. “Something this big would take a few sessions, not to mention would be very painful… we should probably plan on 10-15 sessions just to space it out-”

“No.”

The man looked at him confused. “What do you mean?”

“I don’t want to wait; I want them done today.”

The alpha was starting to get nervous again. “Sir I-uh the pain from something like this would be… that is to say even grown alpha man can't take…” He let his sentence run off when he saw the way Law was looking at him. “Not to mention I will need time to make sure the line work is satisfactory and-”

“Pain won't be a problem,”

“But sir-”

“Believe me you don’t even know what true pain is.” Law did his best to show his annoyance in his eyes, but he soon calmed himself down. “Fine, 2-3 sessions, is that doable?”

“Y-Yes sir.”

“Good.” Law made his way to the back of the shop.

“Uh sir?” The man called in confusion.

“Well, we are stating today aren’t we?”

“Uh yes, yes, let me just uhhh.” He started to scramble around the shop looking for his supplies. Law was probably being a little mean to him, but it wasn’t like most alpha’s didn’t do the same to him. So all in all he didn’t spend too much of his time feeling guilty about it.

In the next three days the artist had finished, with tolerable pain Law might add, and when Law looked at himself in the mirror, he finally felt that itch go away. It was even better than he imagined, his skin was a beautiful canvas to all those he had loved and lost. He looked at the word death written across his knuckles; they were not only a warning sign but a promise. Death was the only thing that awaited the people who cared about him.

The giant heart tattooed on his chest might have been his favorite aesthetically out of all of them and he was thankful he put it on his front, it would look good peeking out through his tank tops. While the heart was an obvious tribute to Cora it was also a tribute to Crocodile. Law didn’t know what it was that truly possessed the warlord to save him back then, but he had. He had opened up his doors to a small angry omega child and given him the codename heart. He hoped that he would understand the meaning of the tattoos without Law having to say anything, neither of them were ever good with putting emotions into words.

Next he looked a bit cautiously at the one of his back, the one that represented Cora-san. He stared at it unmoving in the mirror, he could feel the artist shifting nervously next to him, probably taking his silence as a bad thing but it wasn’t. Law was just frozen staring at it, it was stupid and maybe a bit childish, but in a way, it was like he was still here, watching his back. It was… comforting.

Law I love you

“Is-s it alright Mr. Heart sir?” It appeared his nervousness had won, and he opened his mouth interrupting Law’s thoughts.

“Yeah it's…” Law felt emotions slipping into his voice and he quickly coughed to hide it. “Here.” He threw some more berries on the counter as he put his shirt back on and left. “You get to keep it and your life.” Though Law knew even if he had done a bad job, he would not have killed the man, still he didn’t need to know that.

“Thank you for your kindness sir!” He seemed actually genuine, and it surprised him. Law waved over his shoulder as he left, not giving that alpha another moment of his time.

While Law had thought a lot about getting the tattoos he hadn’t really thought of Crocodile’s reaction to him getting said tattoos. It's not like he had any say in what Law did to his own body nor would his opinion change anything but… well Law would be kidding himself if he said it didn’t matter to him at all, even if just a very tiny amount. 

He strutted into his office with confidence, though the stupid lizard barely looked up from his papers. “Is there something you need Brat?”

Law felt his eyebrow twitch in annoyance, there was no reason for Croc to call him brat anymore he was a grown man of 22 now after all. Though he knew there was no point in protesting. Whenever he did the man would just say “I will stop calling you that when you stop acting like one.” and Law would never stop what was clearly just his personality, so it appeared they were at a standstill.

“I have something to show you.”

The man still didn’t look up from his papers. “Oh, and what would that be?”

Law felt his confidence wane slightly at the disinterest in his tone. “I got something done.”

“And that is?” Law shifted a bit at the lack of interest, it almost felt like a dismissal.

“Never mind, I will come back at a better time.” He didn’t mean for him to sound pissed but maybe he was just a little. He took a few steps but then found sand blocking the door. 

“Stop being a brat and just come show me.” He was looking at Law now, though Law recognized the look from when he was a kid. There was an annoyance there but also a particular amusement, or maybe even fondness?

“I just got some stupid tattoos done, no big deal.” Law mumbled and with that the sand pushed him back over closer to Croc’s desk.

Crocodile was smirking at him as he took in his hands and forearms. “Death huh? Little edgy but I suppose it does suit someone like you.”

Law ignored the back sided compliment and took off his tank top. “Just shut up.” He gestured to his back. “I got this one for Cora-san.”

Crocodile looked at his back for a moment and Law thought he saw a flash of something in his eyes. “It does… look like him, in a way.”

Law smirked at the approval as he put his shirt back on, even if it wasn’t very obvious, he could tell approval was what it was.

“So, if the one on your back is just for Rosi who is the one on the front for I wonder?” By his knowing smile it appeared he had put the pieces together.

Law flushed and quickly pulled the rest of his shirt back on. “Sh-shut up! They are all for Cora-san, just for him! It’s just a coincidence that it's a heart and I am heart in your organization and… whatever!” Law activated his room and switched himself for something outside of the office. He groaned leaning against the wall thinking about his word vomit before making his way downstairs. He needed to be by someone that couldn't talk and Tang always made him feel better.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Crocodile had just been teasing him but seeing how he reacted he was at a loss for words. He was glad the kid had teleported out of his office because he didn’t know how to deal with this knowledge. The kid had went and gotten a tattoo for him? I mean he wasn’t surprised by the action of getting tattoos, they suited Law and were a taboo amongst omegas, so it only made sense that he would get them. It also made sense that he would get some to honor Rosinante, he had given his life to save the kid and in doing so Law held so incredibly tightly onto his memory, though he supposed he had done the same thing. Still, he didn’t understand why he would do something like that for him. Or maybe he did and just didn’t want to admit it.

Crocodile thought back to the scrappy small omega he found on the small rowboat that day, the person that Rosi had given his life for. He had come all that way to help Rosinante for something as foolish as love only to find ruin instead. He shouldn’t have been surprised though, when had a silly concept like love ever worked out for him? No, it was easier to bury such emotions, things like that were long lost for someone like him, his heart was nothing but sand now… and yet…

This scrawny kid who he watched struggle and grow over the past decade, the brat who would curse and fight anytime someone called him an useless omega. The kid who refused help and preferred to go in alone wanting to get strong, wanting his revenge. That kid, that kid had gotten a tattoo for him . Crocodile had been avoiding thinking about it for awhile, anytime he thought about Law for too long in a non-planning sense he quickly tried to distract himself, but it seemed there was no longer any point in doing so, as there was now a physical mark he would have to look at that would remind him.

It killed him to admit it but a small part of him, very small, possibly felt something akin to… fondness towards the other. It was different from the feelings he felt towards Rosi or he had felt in the past for… him, but he knew it to be that horrible emotion all the same. It was ironic that he was able to get rid of his own child so easily and yet when it came to this one his instincts had kicked in, instincts he thought he got rid of when he went through his change.

He cursed quietly reaching under his desk and pulled out a bottle of expensive scotch. There was no point in lamenting about it now he supposed, the feral gremlin had wormed his way into his heart, and it seemed that despite his efforts he had gotten into his as well. He took a big sip of his drink and tried to relax into his chair just hoping this miscalculation wouldn’t ruin his plans.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Law had been enjoying one of his rare days between missions when he got the message. Apparently, he had a visitor, a visitor of the royal variety. Princess Vivi had come to see him. Law hadn’t seen the princess since that day years ago when he had beat up her alpha friend and taught her to swear. He was a bit confused as to why she wanted to see him now after so much time. Regardless he would not ignore a summons from royalty, at least not when Crocodile was around.

Law walked slowly down the stairs as he racked his brain trying to think of exactly why the princess would want to talk to him. Had she figured out about the dance powder? No, it couldn’t be that, Robin and him had been very careful not to leave any traces behind.

As he rounded the corner he saw her standing there and it made him pause. She was clearly much older now, taller too. Her blue hair was much longer, and even though Law wasn’t into that sort of thing, he could see that she was becoming a beautiful woman. Her eyes lit up as she saw Law and rushed right over to him, throwing him into a huge hug. His body went rigid, and he froze, not used to this sort of affection least of all from someone he considered little more than a stranger to him. Much to his relief she didn’t hold on to him too long and he was soon released with the excited omega standing in front of him.

“Law! It's been so long! How have you been?!” It was strange, she seemed to really want to know.

“I -uh okay?” To say he was confused about what was happening was an understatement. Vivi didn’t seem deterred though.

“Glad to hear it! I have been training really hard, you know? Since that day!”

“That day?” Law echoed. Had his little talk really inspired her this much?

“Yeah! I mean I know it was a long time ago, but it really meant a lot! I have never met an omega like you before! Not to mention I still hear stories about you defeating pirates and ruffians all the time! So cool!!!” Her eyes were back to sparkling while looking at him.

“You think I am cool?” If you asked Law what he thought was going to happen to him today this was not on his list.

“Of course I do! I know maybe that day didn’t mean as much to you, but it meant a lot to me!”

“Uh well that's uh good?”  Law was starting to feel a weird sense of pride talking to her. Was he really cool? Did she really see him that way?

“I actually came here to ask you a favor!” Her excitement had still not left her. Law still didn’t understand what was so exciting about seeing him, but he let it go.

“Of course, Princess.” Law knew that he would have to abide by it, Crocodile would have his head otherwise.

“Fight me!” 

Law felt his brain malfunction. Fight her? Fight a princess? If he hurt the princess of this country there would no doubt be consequences, he couldn't fight her. But this was also a direct order from said princess so he couldn’t just ignore it either.

“Fight you?” He could hear the uncertainty in his own voice. Maybe he had heard it wrong, after all what kind of princess would want that sort of thing?

She nodded enthusiastically. “I have something… I need to do, and I need to be strong in order to do it so… please fight me!” Law could see the determination shining back at him in her eyes, the sheer veracity of it was making him pause.

“You can do what she says.”  Law looked across the room and noticed a familiar figure hanging in the shadows there. It was one of the king's aids, a large man with curled blonde hair.

“No offense but I don't think its a good idea to-”

“Please!” She had grabbed both of his hands holding them in front of her. “Just this once please!”

Law looked between the princess and her guard confused as to what to do. He was truly stuck between a rock and a hard place. “I guess we can-”

“Yayyy!” She seemed way too excited. “I can't wait to show you my skills and who knows, maybe I will even win!” She winked at him before taking a few steps away and got into a fighting stance. She had this yoyo looking type thing in her hands and Law wondered if that was her weapon. It had a big wheel on one side and the other looked to be very sharp, it was pretty colorful too, sort of resemble a peacock, definitely the weapon of royalty.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself there princess.” In no universe was Law going to let her win, he just needed to figure out a way to beat her without causing her any damage, or cutting her into pieces. Oh god if he cut her into pieces Crocodile might actually make him eat bread.

She went to strike at him and Law easily dodged it. He could tell that while she had clearly been training but she lacked in any real fighting experience, her body easily telegraphed what her next movements were. Law didn’t even need his devil fruit to dodge, instead after dodging a few times he decided to perry it with his sword.

He deflected it but then when she struck again he found the whip part of it wrapped around his sword. He smirked coming up with a plan to end this quickly. He allowed her to steal his sword from him, the whip carrying it back to land beside her. Law reached into his pocket grabbing one of the stones he kept there and opened a room.

She smiled proudly, clearly thinking she was close to victory when Law switched suddenly with his sword besides her. As soon as he had he switched the rock with his sword. He brought it up easily breaking through her defense as her weapon was far more useful at long range. He brought Kikoku right to her stomach then stopped. It was hard with his momentum but he managed to do it. “You lose princess.” He couldn’t help but to smirk cockily at her.

She frowned for a moment as she took in her defeat but then smiled so incredibly warmly up at him. A gesture which only confused him more. “Wow, that was awesome! You really are strong huh?”

“Uhhh yeah.” He took a step back, her warmness kept throwing him off, people didn’t just act like this, it had to be a trick.

“Thank you for that, I know it was unorthodox, but it was important.” She seemed really sincere, and Law didn’t know what prompted him to ask but he did anyway.

“Why is it so important for you to get strong?”

She looked at him again with that determination, then looked around making sure that it was only the three of them in the room. “Can I tell you something you have to keep a secret?”

Law was sure he wouldn’t keep it a secret but he agreed nonetheless. “I think… I think there is someone plotting against my father and this country. I have to help him but not only that I have to help our people. I can’t just sit back and do nothing while they suffer.”

Law felt his heartbeat quicken slightly. This girl was going to try to fight against them? There was no way she would win, not with what Law had witnessed. She would fail there was no doubt about it, but that was a good thing right? So why did the thought of her failing make him feel weird?

“That is…” stupid, idiotic, foolish , “a brave goal.” He looked at her warm smile and despite himself he said. “Just be careful, don’t be afraid to admit if it… is too much.”

He could see her eyes water and she threw her arms around him again. “Thanks Law!” 

Law still stiffened but not as much as last time. It was a shame what had to happen. As he watched Vivi go he did so with just a twinge of regret though it didn’t change anything. He knew what he had to do, and she was still a royal at the end of the day. He had to remember that. Still, he would keep this bit of information to himself for now, he was sure Crocodile would find out eventually anyway, might as well let her play hero for a little bit longer.

Chapter Text

“No.” Crocodile said firmly, doing his best to ignore the persistent man in front of him.

“Stop being stubborn and just let me do it.” Law continued ignoring his refusal.

“No, and stop using your powers on me.” He snapped, turning away from him in his chair.

“I just used it to scan you!” Law defended.

“I don’t care, what happens inside my body is my business brat not yours.” he puffed on another cigar just to prove his point, blowing the smoke at Law.

“Oh just let me scrape out your damn lungs!” Law truly didn’t understand what the big deal was. Did Crocodile really think Law was going to kill him? It was far more likely cancer was going to do that job in 10 or 20 years if he didn’t let him do what he wanted.

“I said no brat.” He could tell from his tone he wanted the conversation over.

“Do you really want to die from something stupid like lung disease? Such a weak way to go.” If talking to him logically wasn’t going to work then Law was going to try a different tactic.

“Shut up brat.”

“Defeated by your own body, I mean everyone would be talking about it.” He could hear him grinding on his cigar. “The Newscoo would have a field day with it. I can see it now: The great Sir Crocodile taken down by his own lungs, right in his prime! What great feats he could have accomplished we will never kno-”

He threw the cigar down on the ground stomping on it. “Fucking fine! If it will get you to shut up!”

“It will.” Law confirmed activating his room with a sense of triumph.

The other grumbled but leaned back in his chair. “Just make it quick.” Law had hoped he would maybe accompany him to a medical suite, but he should have known better.

Law took his sword out pausing making eye contact with Crocodile. Until this moment Law hadn’t realized exactly how much trust the other was giving him.

“Are you going to do it or what?”

Taking that as consent he didn't waste any more time cutting him a few times precisely with Kikoku and taking out his lungs. He could hear the man complaining but he zoned him out in favor of paying attention to what he was doing, it was important work after all, and with the way this man smoked he would probably have to do it again.

It was strange though, there was something just a bit off about the man’s body. Now that he was in Law’s room and especially with his focus on him, he noticed something he hadn’t before. His hormone levels were just a bit off for a beta. A bit too high, and he thought he was catching very faint traces of an omega hormone but that couldn’t be right. Crocodile was clearly a beta. It's not like there was something that could change that… was there?

Law finished his operation, quickly disposing of the medical waste in a nearby trash can and putting the warlord back together. He could feel his eyes on him, but he didn’t know what to say. It wasn’t something you just asked about and he would probably just sound crazy if he did.

“Your lungs are clear now.” He announced. “So you can keep smoking your gross cigars.”

“If you think I am going to thank you, you have another thing coming.” He grumbled shifting his coat further across himself.

Law scoffed as he exited the room. “Wouldn’t dream of it, you old lizard.” It didn’t have the bite in it, it normally did though. His mind was currently racing as he made his way down the hallway. It couldn't be possible right? You were dealt the biological cards you were dealt and there was no changing that. Still, he had definitely noticed traces of an omega hormone, and his room didn’t lie.

So now he supposed the question became if it was possible, if Crocodile had somehow escaped his fate as an omega, could Law escape it too? Was there a possibility that Law could just be normal?

He paused his walking at the thought. Normal sounded… oddly nice. No alphas jeering at him for just existing, no more heats, hell he might even be able to get some respect without having to fight tooth and nail. All of it seemed really appealing, much easier than the life he had now but… well when had Law’s life ever been easy? There was also something to be said about the look on a cocky alphas face when an omega beat them in battle, or the way it was much easier to manipulate people for information, being underestimated wasn't necessarily a bad thing. Getting stronger was also much more satisfying with the world betting against you.

Law shook his head trying to clear his thoughts. This was all just speculation anyway, there could be another reason for the presence of that hormone, one that Law just hadn’t thought about yet. There was no point in agonizing over something that he didn’t even know was possible. He just needed to put it behind him.

“You look troubled, did he still not let you do the surgery?”

He looked up surprised to see Robin standing there, she was smirking at him in that amused way she did. Law just rolled his eyes at her.

“He did actually, so you owe me 20 berries.” She just smiled at him reaching into her pocket and pulling it out.

“It seems you are full of surprises Heart.” Robin had taken to using his codename though occasionally she did let his real name slip through. Law just scoffed but accepted the money. “Seems the boss has a hard time saying no to you.”

He crossed his arms and tried to deflect. “Well, he would be a fool to ignore his health, besides I can be persistent.”

She laughed lowly at him and Law just rolled his eyes walking by her. He wasn’t surprised to find her following. “If he let you do the surgery though one does have to wonder what has gotten you in such a mood.”

He glared at the woman walking beside him. “I am not in a mood.” 

She just looked back at him smiling as if to say ‘I don’t believe you’ and she was right Law was full of shit, but he hated how she always seemed to know that. “Fine, maybe I am, but I don’t want to talk about it.”

He couldn't just talk about Crocodiles private business like that, he would feel like he was… betraying him or something like that. Even if it was just Robin.

“Ah well I was going to invite you to dinner, but it seems you would prefer your solitude?”

Law hadn’t really thought about food all day. What had he even eaten today besides coffee? His stomach chose that moment to growl, and he looked away from the woman embarrassed. “Yeah sure whatever.”

“Excellent, I had the cooks put something aside for us.” Law just rolled his eyes but followed her. It was weird, she never mentioned it or asked Law, but he had the feeling she noticed how bad he was at eating a balanced meal. Often times she would just bring over food without asking on missions or find Law and ask him to accompany her for a meal. It was odd to have someone think about him that way, but Law shrugged it off contributing it to them just being partners and her wanting to make sure he wasn't useless in battle. 

To her credit she didn’t try to push the topic again and Law did have a nice meal hearing about a book she had read recently on sky islands, something Law still didn't think was real, but he enjoyed it nonetheless. She helped to distract him from his thoughts and for that he was grateful, that was at least until later.

When Law laid down in his bed at night he couldn’t sleep. He found himself tossing and turning not able to drift off. He always had a hard time sleeping but he couldn’t get his mind off of what he had found earlier. He was stuck in this endless loop of thoughts, repeating themselves in the same cycle over and over. It all came down to one thing, Law needed to know if it was possible, he just needed to know then… then maybe he could sort his other thoughts out.

He got out of bed and quietly made his way to the door. It was late at night but odds were that the person he was seeking was awake. He was proven right when he saw a light coming out from the bottom of his closed study door. Law didn’t bother knocking, slowly opening the door instead. Across the room Crocodile looked up at him in confusion.

“What do you want at this time of night Brat?”

Law came in, shutting the door behind him and walking over and sitting in a chair in front of the desk. The man simply raised his eyebrow at the action but did not repeat his question, waiting for Law.

Law for his part was trying to figure out exactly what to say, his feet may have brought him here, but his mind still hadn’t quite caught up.

“I need to ask you something…” Crocodile studied him but still did not speak. Law cleared his throat pulling his eyes away from the man in front of him. “Is it… I was just wondering if you thought it was possible for… for an omega to… to not be that anymore?” Law cursed himself silently for the way that he put that, but it was out there nonetheless.

He could feel the others' eyes on him, but Law kept his gaze on the ground. It was tense for a moment before the warlord sighed pulling out his bottle of scotch and two glasses. He poured the liquid into each and then slid one over to Law while taking a sip of his.

Law wasn’t really one for liquor, but he accepted the invitation reaching down and bringing the strong liquid to his lips. Flinching at the harshness on his throat.

Crocodile then took a long drag of his cigar before speaking. “I take it when you did your little operation, you found something?”

Law nodded, his focus on the glass in front of him as he stirred the liquid around. “I found small traces of omega hormones.”

It was quiet again and Law took that as his answer. “So it is possible then?”

He heard the man sigh again leaning back in his chair. “Yes, I knew someone long ago with a particular devil fruit and it is possible.”

“Then could I?”

“No.” Crocodile said firmly.

Law's eyes met his for the first time since Law had started the conversation. “Why not?”

“A lot of reasons.” Crocodile defended cryptically.

“Bullshit. You get to walk around like that while I am stuck as an omega! And you won't even think about it?!” Law didn’t know if it was something he even wanted but he didn’t like being instantly dismissed.

“I said no.” He took a sip of his drink.

Law grumbled and took a sip of his in kind, this time relishing in the way it burned. “Tell me why.”

The warlord rubbed his face with his hand before speaking again. “Well for one it was a long time ago and I have no idea where this person even is anymore. Not only that but the process is dangerous to someone with a normal body but…”

Law narrowed his eyes, challenging him to continue.

“Are you really going to pretend being terminally ill had no effect on the way your body developed?” It was harsh, harsh but true and Law could admit that at least. Taking his small grumbling as agreement he continued. “Law the process probably took a lot off my life as is. It isn't worth it.”

“Did you hate being an omega that much?” It came out before he even realized. 

The warlord looked away from Law and out the window, it appeared his question had prompted him to retreat somewhere else in his mind for a moment. “No… no I didn’t.”

“Then why?” Law needed to know, he just wanted to understand.

“Something happened… something unexpected and I had to for ever- for my safety.” 

Law studied him listening to his words but searching for a deeper meaning as he often had to do with the man in front of him. “Okay.” Law nodded in acceptance.

“And what does that mean?”

Law looked down at the drink in his hand. “I think I understand.”

They both sat there and finished their drinks in a comfortable silence. When Law was done he stood up and put his glass back down on the other side of the desk. He paused looking at the man then turned away.

“Thanks.”

“Does this mean I still have your loyalty?”

Law felt the corners of his mouth curve up and he held back a snort at the ridiculousness of that statement. “Don’t be stupid.” He walked over to the door and opening it before pausing to look back at him for a moment. “You never treated me differently because of it so why should I?”

The man nodded at him once and Law took that as his dismissal though he could see something else in his eyes. There was a trust there between them that had been growing slowly all this time. He had trusted Law with his secret, he could have denied or made something up, but he didn't. He told him the truth, granted it was a vague version of the truth but that was a lot considering the man himself. 

The truth allowed Law some clarity, just knowing that somehow there was a way out there made him feel more… secure. Like being an omega was his choice and not something the universe had just thrust upon him. When he got back into his bed that night, he had no further problems falling asleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

Law was coming back from a healing assignment in Alabarna, when he ran into a familiar face. At first he had no idea who it was; he just felt someone following him. After a few inconspicuous glances behind him though it wasn't hard to figure out their identity. Law weighed his options and decided to make his way into a secluded alleyway then leaned against the wall looking at the entrance expectantly. 

As his follower turned the corner he could see the surprise in their face, it looked for a moment like they might flee but Law spoke first.

“Is there a reason you are following me princess?” It had been over a year since she had come into Rainbase and demanded that Law fight her, he sincerely hoped she wasn’t here for round two.

She looked around quickly before stepping into the alley with him and away from the prying eyes on the street. “You knew I was following you?”

Law chuckled. “You're not as stealthy as you think, your highness, now why are you following me?”

Vivi shifted around on her feet, Law could see she was having an internal argument with herself. When she looked at him, he could see the determination there but there was something else. “I wasn’t trying to stalk you or anything, I was undercover in town, and I saw you and I just…” She fidgeted with her hands and Law waited patiently for her to spit out whatever she needed to say. “Law, I need to ask you something!”

He nodded for her to continue, she had piqued his curiosity. “You heal the sick right? I have heard stories about it, I heard that you don’t even ask for money in most cases, especially when dealing with the poor and… and you helped to save the people of this country so many times. I have heard tales from so many about how you bravely stood up against pirates and thieves.” She was looking directly into his eyes now. “So if all that is true then… then why would you…?” Law could see some tears forming in her eyes and it caused him to feel a weird pain in his stomach. “Please just… tell me that… tell me it isn’t true!?

Law felt himself freeze staring at her, she must have figured out who was pulling the strings at the top. Still, it was probably best for Law to play dumb. “Tell you what isn't true?”

“That you're working with him to… to hurt this country.” Her eyes were looking at him desperately scanning his face.

Law sighed looking away from her. “That's not… it's not… my intention.”

he could see the hurt in her face. “I knew it had to be true but I didn’t want to believe it. How… how could you Law? I thought we were friends!”

Law snorted unamused. “Your royalty, would you really want to be friends with some commoner?”

“It's not like that!” She defended.

Law just shook his head. “Royals, the government, world nobles, it's all the same. They only care about themselves.”

“That's not true!” Vivi protested.

“It is and your… ill equipped for this fight. Go home princess, or maybe go somewhere safe and far away from all this. That's what royals are good at right fleeing when their country is in ruin?” Law cursed himself for getting too personal with her.

“You say you hate me and yet you're telling me to get to safety!” She grabbed onto his arm and Law took a step back. “Please stop this! I know you aren't a bad person! Please just stop and help me! Help this country!”

Law could tell she was pleading with all she had, it was a surprise coming from someone of her status. Law looked away from her, there was something about the hurt and hope in her eyes, he just couldn't stand to look at it. “I can’t Vivi.” 

He felt her grip loosen but it didn’t let go. “You didn’t tell him.” Law looked up in confusion. “You never told Crocodile that I was infiltrating Baroque works. You could have because there was no way I would have gotten this far if you had.”

“I didn’t.” Law confirmed.

“So then why? Why won't you help me?! Help me to save my people, my father! Please Law!”

Law pulled away from her clenching his hands into fists. “I am sorry to disappoint you princess, but I am not the person you thought I was. The term ‘monster’ isn't a foreign one to me.” He took a couple steps away. “I won’t say anything about today but rest assured next time we meet… we will be enemies.” With that Law used his room to teleport away from her into a nearby alley way. 

He leaned against the wall slowly lowering himself down to the ground taking a deep breath. He didn’t understand it, he knew what the plan was, he had known it for years. He never cared about the feelings of royalty or the fate of this country so why… why was he feeling like this? He brought his hand up to hover over his heart tattoo. He shook his head back and forth, it didn’t matter. He had a job to do, and he would do it. He did his best to push down these feelings where he didn’t have to think about them again.

Chapter Text

The first time Law saw the name Monkey D. Luffy was in a newscoo talking about some small upstart in the East Blue. Apparently, he had defeated a former Sun Pirate along with infiltrating some marine base there. Well, it didn’t say that exactly, but he could read between the lines. Law looked at the picture of this kid and it beamed back at him. He immediately threw the paper in the trash not bothering to read anymore, he didn’t want to look at that smile. Who even smiled with that much happiness anyway? 

It wasn't until he got word from Whiskey Peak that he started to really pay attention to the name. Not only had these Strawhats managed to beat up all of the agents, they had recruited the princess as well. Luckily he and Robin weren’t too far away from them. He had his own plan for Vivi. He knew Crocodile might be angry at him but Law wanted to give Vivi a chance to escape. He felt a certain level of guilt when it came to her, even if he would never say it out loud. He didn’t want her to die in Alabasta and more than that he didn’t want to have to be the one to do it.

They were approaching stealthily on one of their turtles, it was easy for them to approach unnoticed, especially with the fog. He and Robin shared a look and Law activated his room switching them with two tangerines on board.

“If I were you I would be careful with all this fog, you could hit a rock or something.” Robin had made herself comfortable sitting on the railing while Law glowered behind her.

They turned in confusion at the new voice, the swordsman was the first to react and he charged immediately. Law instinctively pulled out his blade blocking his progress and they made fierce eye contact. Law could smell his alpha hormones and he almost forgot the plan in favor of beating this green haired idiot right here and now.

“What are you two doing here!?” Vivi yelled. Law glanced over at her quickly seeing the panic in her eyes at the sight of them.

“We are not here to fight.” Robin informed them simply.

“Oh yeah and who are you exactly?” The swordsman growled at them.

“That is Miss All Sunday and her partner Heart.” Vivi was glaring particularly at Law.

“Wait no numbers?” The redhead asked, confused.

“They both work directly with the boss, Mr. 0.” Vivi confirmed

“Wait Crocodile?!” Now the red head seemed scared. Good, it would make their jobs easier.

Robin smiled at them politely but Law could see that she was analyzing them all. Law was doing his best to keep his eyes on the swordsman but it didn’t help that he could feel another pair of eyes on him, in fact maybe even two.

“Zorro stand down.” He heard a voice call. The swordsman seemed hesitant but he withdrew his sword and jumped back to stand by his crew. 

Law looked the lot of them over. They didn’t seem very impressive to be honest. There was some skinny red headed girl omega girl, a blonde omega in a suit standing next to a very scared beta man. The most intimidating one was easily the swordsman. Law recognized the captain from the paper, when their eyes met he flashed him a glimpse of that smile he remembered from the picture. It just made Law frown, especially when he caught wind of his alpha scent. It was weird but he thought it didn't smell too bad. He did his best to ignore that thought.   

Next to him, glaring up at Law specifically was Vivi. She looked much more confident than the last time he saw her, he was disappointed to see her still trying to fight against them, couldn't she see this was a pointless battle to be fighting?

“We thought you might be here, especially after our little run in with number 8.”

Vivi’s eyes got big at Robin’s revelation. It was true they had come across the princess bodyguard before they had gotten here and taken care of him. He was probably still alive though… probably. Well either way it was better for her to think that he was dead. “YOU KILLED HIM!! YOU BASTARDS!!!”

With that the swordsman jumped back into action followed by the previously nervous beta and the blonde. Law just activated his room, switching them easily away from them. The captain however just stood there with his eyes on Law. He made no move to fight, just standing there. 

Robin just laughed condescendingly at them. “Don't worry we didn’t come here to fight you.” Her eyes turned to Vivi. “Although it was bad luck for you all to pick up this wayward princess. So rare to see a royal fighting so hard for their country. Don't you agree Heart?”

“I have no sympathy for royals.” Law said, looking away from the princess. He was starting to feel a bit uncomfortable, their captain's gaze still on him. Why was this man staring at him like that?

At that moment Robin made a hand appear on the captain's head and threw his straw hat up to her. She caught it smirking and placed it on her own head on top of her cowboy hat. This finally got his attention away from Law. “HEY give it back!!!” He yelled but he stayed standing where he was.

She ignored him and continued with what she was saying. “That being said you do realize where you are headed?” Robin nodded to the red head. “That log pose is set to go to an island called Little Garden.” She laughed again. “If you all go there we won't even have to lift a finger to kill you the island will do it for us.” She reached into her pocket and took out the eternal pose, throwing it to Vivi.

She took it in her hands, stunned. “That is an eternal pose to an Island called Nanimonaishima, none of our agents know that course so you won't be followed. You would be a fool not to take it. There is no way a crew like this stands a chance at beating Baroque works.”

“Why… why are you giving this to us?” She was looking at Law though as if he had the answers.

“It has to be a trap.” The swordsman interjected.

“It doesn’t matter cause we don’t need it!” Luffy reached out grabbing the log pose and breaking it in his hand. Law, along with everyone else, stood there shocked at his action. What kind of a person just did things like that? The redhead kicked him right in the face breaking them all out of their stupor.

“YOU IDIOT!! Why would you do that!? Maybe it was a safer path and they were actually trying to help us get away!!”

The alpha to his credit just laid there seemingly unbothered that an omega and a member of his crew just struck him. He didn’t seem angry or even that his pride was hurt just taking it in stride looking at Robin and saying. “You're not the one in charge of where this ship goes.”

What a strange man, Law thought to himself as Robin smiled back at him, throwing his hat back down. 

“Well I suppose we will be leaving now.” That was Law’s que, he activated his room and was about to switch them when he heard Luffy yell “WAIT!” Law paused turning to look at the alpha curiously. “Will I see you again?”

He was looking at Law, projecting his voice at Law and yet Law still wasn’t sure that he was talking to him. He looked at him confused for a moment before regaining his composure. “If I see you again it will mean your death.” Law made sure the crew could see the words tattooed in his hands before he quickly switched the two of them back on their turtle, easily disappearing into the fog. 

“What a strange man.” Robin mused, looking over her shoulder into the fog in their general direction.

Law just scoffed, not deeming that with a response. That dumb alpha had destroyed Vivi’s chance at escape. Fighting was inevitable now and he knew just who to blame it on. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Vivi was so thankful for these random pirates, she still wasn’t sure if she could trust them fully, but they had already helped her so much and said they would continue to do so. She just had to hope that was true, for her country, her people, and her father.

“Don’t worry princess, your prince will protect you!” Sanji was looking at her with heart eyes again. She didn’t understand why he was so obsessed with women as an omega male, but she just shrugged it off. He was strong, and a fighter too, though looking at him for too long gave her a bit of sadness, making her think about another male omega she thought she had known. 

“So who was that Heart guy?” Luffy asked, leaning on the railing by Vivi trying to look casual.

“His real name is Trafalgar Law and like I said he works directly under Sir Crocodile.”

Luffy nodded, taking it in. “He was kind of cute.”

Vivi looked at him confused but it was nothing the way the others looked at him. “Cute? Luffy you can't be serious?! That guy was scary!” Nami complained.

“He had a hat with hearts on it.” Luffy tilted his head confused.

“AND TATTOOS THAT SAID DEATH! Someone like that is scary and strong, not cute!” Usopp yelled then hid behind the mast as if Law would pop out at any second.

“He is a very strong fighter.” Vivi agreed, thinking about the time he had actually agreed to fight her. He hadn’t even been taking her seriously at the time, yet he still won easily.

Luffy’s eyes got bigger. “Really?! You fought him? Tell me about him!”

Vivi looked around hesitantly, she didn’t know why but talking about Law to them sort of felt like she was betraying him. After all, even if he hadn’t said anything while they were here Vivi was sort of suspecting that giving her the eternal pose was his idea. The last time he had met her he had also tried to give her a way out. Still, he was the enemy now, even if he was a reluctant one.

“It would be good to know more about our enemy.” Nami agreed. 

Vivi took a deep breath. “I uh met Law when I was a kid.” she started. “Apparently he had come to Alabasta when he was young himself with Sir Crocodile.”

“Wait, so is he like his dad?” Sanji asked, lighting a cigarette. Zorro to his credit was napping but it also seemed like he might be listening.

“No, I don’t think so, but it is clear he has a very strong loyalty to him.” She thought back about how Law seemed like he hated to listen to anyone, but he was always so mindful of Sir Crocodile. “Like I said I met him when I was young. when I first presented as an omega I was upset, I thought that it was the end of the world.” Nami and Sanji looked over in understanding. “But Law was… he was strong. At 18 he was already fighting off pirates and saving lives. My father thought it would be good for me to meet him.”

“Was it?” Nami asked curiously.

“It was, he helped me to realize that I didn’t have to be what people perceived me as. I could be more than just an omega.” She smiled softly thinking about how much hope he had brought her. “I looked up to him, at least until I figured out that he was working with Baroque works behind the scenes. He is Crocodile’s right-hand man, his devil fruit power is a mystery and very formattable."

Luffy nodded thoughtfully. “I see, so he is a good person.” 

Nami slapped him on the head. “Idiot, weren't you listening? He is the enemy! He just did all of that to help that scummy Crocodile right Vivi?”

“Law is… hard to get a read on.” She admitted.

“Well, I like Torao, I hope I get to fight him soon! Especially if he is really strong!”

“Torao?” The princess asked confused.

“Yeah, that's what you said his last name was right?”

“Trafalgar.” She corrected.

“Yeah Torao!” He smiled happily. 

Vivi looked at the captain in disbelief, she didn’t know why but she was getting a funny feeling that Law would have his work cut out for him with this one. That thought made her smile, just slightly. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Honestly I wouldn’t even bother sending your men after them, I would just let them die on their own on that island.” Law was back at Rainbase sitting across from Crocodile looking unamused as they continued to discuss the pirates.

Crocodile seemed to consider his words. “Still, it's best not to take chances.” Law rolled his eyes, but he knew how paranoid the man was, it was pointless to argue. “Law.” He looked up surprised he was being addressed. “I want you to go to Nanohara. If somehow they do get off that island, they will land their first. Regardless of that I need to make sure that the rebels in that area get the… information that they need.” 

Law knew what he was talking about of course, it was his job to spread further misinformation about the king. Besides pirates turned up in that port a lot and it was always good to have a strong recognizable face there to stop any trouble. The extra good faith would be imperative at this stage in the plan.

“Fine, Robin and I will go tonight.”

“Actually, I would like Robin to stay here.” Law looked at him confused; this would be the first time Crocodile had sent him off on his own since he had paired the two of them up three years ago.

“You want me to go alone?” He asked for clarification.

“I recall a time when you would beg me to go alone on a mission.” He looked at the other skeptically. Something else was going on here, this was very unlike him.

Law continued to stare at him trying to read the man. “Why do you want me out of the base?”

Crocodile looked down at the papers in front of him and Law could tell he was purposely avoiding eye contact. “I have a last-minute shipment of weapons coming and I think it would be best for you not to be present for it.”

It took Law a moment, but he connected the dots. “ He is coming here, isn't he?” Law didn’t even want to dignify the pink bastard any respect by saying his name.

“I need his weapons to complete the plan.” Law looked at him unamused, but he was still pretending to be reading the document in front of him. 

Law stood up storming out of the room “Fine! I will gladly leave.” He made sure to slam the door behind him. He didn't waste any more time, packing a small bag and walking out the back door. Even if Crocodile hadn't waned him out, he would have left anyway, he had no desire to be anywhere near that pink fashion disaster. Not until he was driving his sword through his chest anyway.

“Going somewhere?” He jumped at the sound of Robin’s voice, but he tried to play it off.

“Special mission.” He grit out.

“By yourself?” Her eyes shone with curiosity.

Law snorted. “Basically just an excuse to get me out of his way so I don’t ruin his precious deal.” Robin tilted her head but didn’t press him. “Look I will be back when that bastard is gone just…” He looked at her not really knowing where this was coming from. “Don’t trust him and don’t be in a room alone with him.”

“And who are you talking about exactly?”

Law scoffed again. “You will know him when you see him, he is hard to miss.” With that Law shouldered his pack and went to find their turtle to take him down stream. Robin stood there watching him go with a strange look on her face, but Law was none the wiser.

Chapter Text

If there was one thing Law still hated about Alabasta it was the heat. You would think that he would have been used to it by now after living here for so long but his northern blood ran strong in his veins. Law was currently dying as he arrived at his final destination, he was wearing a long white coat that had Corazon written in black on the back along with a replica of the tattoo. He also had his signature heart hat, a white tank top and black capris on. After he had gotten his tattoo he couldn’t help but to get a few outfits made up with the design. His coat was supposed to help him stay cool in the heat, which is why it was white and not black, but Law could barely tell a difference.

He cursed the sun as he finally made it into town. He decided to get himself a room first, he wasn’t in a hurry, after all, he planned to be here for a few days to make sure he did not run into that asshole. 

He rented a room and decided to relax before doing his duties, his own little act of rebellion. Law was never one to be comfortable doing nothing though, so his rebellion didn’t last long. Soon he was back out on the streets discreetly helping the revolutionaries and publicly destroying pirates. He even traveled around to a few surrounding towns making sure that they were all protected. It was a good few days before the impending chaos ensued...

Law was looking around for some no name pirates to fight when he saw something that made him freeze. Due to Crocodile’s insistence, Law had memorized a lot of names and faces of the major players in the New World, and he happened to recognize one of them in front of him. A Whitebeard commander no less.

Silently and as stealthily as he could manage, Law followed him through the town. He wasn’t too hard to follow, him being shirtless and covered in tattoos made him easy to keep track of. To his relief it seemed like he was alone. He debated engaging him or continuing to observe from afar when the kid burst into flames then appeared in front of Law on the street.

“Hey, did you need something? I am getting a bit bored of you following me.”

Law narrowed his eyes at the cocky logia, his hand going to his sword. He was about to snap back when he paused for a moment. He expected that obnoxious alpha smell to invade his nose but instead of that it was a nice, sweet smell. The commander of the Whitebeard pirates was an omega? It seemed Law would have to reevaluate his opinion of the man. The other showed shock in his face as well, clearly expecting that it had been some alpha stalking him. Both of them regained composure very quickly.

“I apologize for my rudeness but it's not everyday we get such an important member of an emperor's crew in this territory.” Law looked at him sharply hoping he would read between the lines and understand what Law was really asking: What the hell are you doing here?

“Ohhhh you're that guy who works for that Alligator warlord!” Law felt his eyebrow twitch, but he didn’t correct him. He laughed a bit. “Don’t worry I ain't here to cause your boss any trouble.” He waved Law off like his concerns were unfounded.

“Then you should have no issue telling me exactly why you are here?” He was trying his best to be polite still.

He put his hands behind his head and casually leaned back against a nearby building. “Just looking for someone, not looking to start anything with your lot.” Law studied him for a moment, when he determined he was telling the truth he sighed and took his hand off of his sword.

“Fine then, just don’t cause trouble for me.” Law turned around to leave the stranger.

“Hey wait!” The commander started walking next to him. 

Law looked back at him unamused. “Can I help you?”

“Well, you're uh from here, right?” He asked, looking over at Law.

“No.” Law answered shortly hoping this guy would take the hint and leave.

“Oh well you have been here for a while though, right?” He didn't seem deterred at all.

“Technically.” he answered shortly again.

“Great, then you know what place around here serves the best food!”

Law actually paused in his walking. “The best food?” He questioned not believing he heard right.

“Yeah! I mean I am starving! There has got to be a good food joint around here!”

Law pointed down the road. “There is a bar two blocks that way.”

Law turned to walk away and to his surprise the man was still following him. He huffed to himself and tried to keep his temper under control, he did not want to start something with the Whitebeard’s. “Is there something you needed?” He tried to keep himself from snapping.

The man just laughed and smiled widely at him, his freckles very prominent in the sun. “You know when I first felt you following me, I thought you were some dumb alpha who wanted a piece of this, but it turns out you're just another kickass omega like me!” 

“Kickass?” Law echoed questioningly.

“Yeah exactly!” The other said either ignoring or not picking up on his questioning tone. “So while I am here we should hang out! It's so rare I get to meet another strong omega!”

Law must have been looking at him like he had three heads because he could not for the life of him understand what made this man want to hang out with him. Not only that, Law didn’t think he had ever just ‘hung out’ with anyone before. “You want to hang out with me?” He asked in clarification trying to get his mind around the idea.

The commander took that for confirmation, grabbing Law’s arm and dragging him down towards the bar he had pointed to. “Exactly, let's go!” Law was so stunned he allowed himself to be dragged down the road for a few seconds. “My name is Ace by the way! Or some people call me Fire Fist!” He made his other hand burst into flames for a moment. 

“Uh sure.” Law was regaining his composure and working on freeing his arm from the others grasp.

“You know you are supposed to introduce yourself too.” Law glared at him, the nerve of this man dragging Law down the street and then acting as if he was the rude one. 

“Trafalgar Law.” He responded as he finally pulled his arm free.

“Law huh? That's a cool name! It fits ya!” he walked a few paces turning when he realized Law was still standing there. “Well come on! I’m hungry.”

Law weighed his options but eventually followed this outgoing omega down the road. To say he wasn’t curious would be a lie, besides it's not like he had anything pressing to do right now. 

They both entered the bar and sat at a small table together. Law looked across at him trying to get a read on the man. He had never hung out with another 'strong' omega either and Law could tell from his confidence and title that that was indeed what he was.

“So are you like a sword fighter?” Ace gestured to Kikoku.

“Not primarily but it's… useful.”

“Cool, I am a devil fruit user too!” Law was doing his best not to give him any information on himself, but it seemed the other was pretty intuitive. The server came and Ace ordered them both a drink without asking.

“So how did you end up here?” He asked, taking a sip of his beverage.

Why was this guy trying to find out more about him? Was this some trick? Was he actually working against Crocodile? “It's a long story.”

The man just looked at him confused. “Sure, but your like happy here right?”

It was Law’s turn to be confused. “What are you talking about?” Happy? Was this stranger really asking him if he was happy?

“Well, I just mean you're here like willingly, right? I mean I don’t see a mating mark or any chains so that's always a good sign, but you never know.” He took another sip of his beverage.

“And if I were to say I wasn’t? That I was being held here against my will?” Law had to ask, trying to understand what exactly this man was getting at.

“Well then I would have to kick some ass!” He said simply, smiling. “But I get the feeling that isn't the case with you?”

Law snorted letting his guard down just slightly. “No, no it's not. Also, that is an insane thing to offer a stranger." He decided to take a sip of his own beverage though he scanned it first just to make sure it was safe.

“Maybe but I have never been quite so sane I guess.” The mischievous smile that he shot him made Law chuckle a little.

“I can tell.”

“Hey no fair!” He pouted though he didn’t stay upset for long. “I like your tattoos by the way! I don’t know if you saw mine?” Law rolled his eyes, as someone who walked around with no shirt on and a giant Whitebeard tattoo on his back, he had clearly seen it, not to mention the ones on his arms.

“I did… pretty cool.” The other lit up at his compliment even if it was spoken quietly.

“Yeah I think so too!” Ace took another sip of his drink. “So anyway, wanna hear about the time I spilled all of Marco’s herbs into the sea and almost set our boat on fire?” Law assumed he was talking about Marco the Phoenix and if so he did indeed want to hear this story.

Much to Law’s surprise he had spent the next hour sitting there listening to Ace’s tales. He found himself actually enjoying talking to the other male which was a rare thing for him. Law honestly didn’t want to leave but he did have to meet with the revolutionaries soon. 

“Well as fun as this has been I have to get going.” Ace looked at him sadly but as Law walked up to the bar and he followed behind him. Law leaned over to the person behind the counter. “He is with me, put his food on Sir Crocodile’s tab.” The man smiled right back at the omega.

“Yeah sure thing Doc, in fact no charge at all! I still owe you one for helping out Verma. I swear you can perform miracles kid, all the doctors had given up on her but not you.” Law shifted uncomfortably. Even though he had saved a lot of lives with his medicine he still never got used to the compliments and thankfulness of people.

“Uh sure thanks.” He shifted his sword to his other shoulder and turned to Ace who was looking at him with a sense of curiosity. “Eat as much as you like.”

With that the man perked up instantly. “Wow really you're the best!” He hit Law hard on the back and Law did his best to ignore the pain.

“Sure.” He said back sarcastically before turning to leave.

“I hope I see you again!” He heard the other call, but Law just waved over his back. He sort of did hope their paths would cross again one day. 

Law was minding his own business walking down the street when he heard someone yelling a strange name. “Torao!!!” It was getting closer and closer. He had no idea who was yelling running down the street but he was thankful it had nothing to do with him.

He took another step before his senses alerted him that something was barreling towards him, he ducked instinctually causing someone to fly over his head and into a nearby building. His attacker jumped right back up seemingly unaffected and Law recognized the face.

“Ahhh Strawhat, so you survived after all.”

“Shishi yeah, I sure did Torao! I am super strong!” he flexed a little bit, but his arms really weren't very muscular.

Law rolled his eyes at the statement, typical alpha. He drew his sword and pointed it at Luffy, but he didn’t seem bothered by it at all, in fact quite the opposite. “Wow you have a cool sword! It seems to be grumpy just like you shishishi!”

Law felt his mouth open slightly and his sword dipped down towards the ground. “Wha-what did you just say?” 

“Shishi don’t worry Torao I don’t mind that you're grumpy.” He jumped over to lean close to Law and Law. With him close like that Law could really smell his scent. It smelled salty like the sea and it somehow made Law think of… adventure? He jumped back immediately, his mind recoiling at the soothing sensation. He had thought him liking the scent before had just been a fluke but with it in his face like this he couldn't deny the appeal.

“Wow Torao you smell so good! I have never really liked how anyone smelled before, but I could smell you all day!” That was probably the worst pickup line Law had ever heard, and he had no idea why he was currently blushing. 

He swung his sword half-heartedly at him and he jumped out of the way laughing. “What is wrong with you?!” Law was definitely not flustered, no, he was still in control of this situation. “Also why are you calling me that stupid name?” It had just registered that Luffy was referring to him as Torao.

“That's your last name, Vivi told me.” He said proudly.

Law looked at him unamused. “You're an idiot.”

“Hey that's mean!” He protested pouting and not looking even a little bit cute, not at all. 

“But true.” Law couldn’t help but to smile just slightly. It seemed the action didn’t escape the pirate captain. He leaned up closer to Law looking at him with wide eyes.

“Torao is really pretty when he smiles.” Even though the words sounded like he was badly hitting on him there was something about his tone that gave Law pause.

“Are you seriously hitting on your enemy? What? You think because I am an omega I will just spread my legs for you and switch sides?” He snapped trying to put his walls firmly back in place.

Luffy just looked at him confused. “No way, I can tell that Torao is strong! I will probably have to fight you later but maybe when I win you can join my crew! Then we can have adventures together!” Law looked at him unamused.

“I could always just kill you now and save us both the trouble.” Law turned his sword, so it reflected the sunlight back at Luffy.

“Shishi nah right now, I want food!” As if on cue his stomach started growling. “I am sooo hungry!!!” The alpha started to complain. Law really didn’t have time to deal with this idiot. He was going over his options when he grinned, getting an idea.

“There is a bar back there, they have uhhh lots of food.” Law pointed to the establishment he had just come from.

“Really?” His mouth was watering and Law did his best not to roll his eyes.

“Yeah lots of uhh meat.” It seemed Law had said the magic word because he perked up and took a few steps away.

“Will Torao come with me?” He asked innocently.

Law tilted his head as he looked at the other in confusion. “Uh sure, I will catch right up with you.” He lied. Luffy seemed not to catch it though because he was soon bounding off happily in the other direction right towards the Whitebeard commander. Hopefully he would just take care of him for Law and save him the trouble.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Meeting with the revolutionaries was tedious as always. Crocodile normally had others do it since they were mostly alphas who were involved but since Law was being sent into what he was calling ‘temporary exile’ and would be here anyway it was better for him to just do it. He wrinkled his nose at the amount of alpha smell in the room, he would need a shower and some fresh air later. 

He had finished telling them about where they could find the weapons they had purchased and was about to leave when one of the revolutionaries stepped into his path. “You know an omega like you really shouldn’t be involved in all of this fighting nonsense. I could think of a much better place for you.” He grinned at him like he was making Law the offer of his life.

Law glared at him harshly and was about to tell him exactly where he could shove his offer when another voice spoke up. “I would leave him alone if I were you, that is if you want your limbs intact.”

Law turned to look at the new voice and it sounded oddly familiar, but he could not place the man’s face. 

“You threatening me Koza?” The man bared his teeth.

“Me? No, but believe me when I say that omega can stand up for himself just fine on his own.” The two of them shared a look before the posturing alpha grumbled annoyed but left all the same.

“If you expect me to thank you for that you will be disappointed.” Law bit back still studying the kid. His name sounded familiar, but he couldn't quite place it.

“I wasn’t, don't worry.” He rubbed the back of his head a bit sheepishly. “You don’t remember me, do you?” Law continued to look at him, his face unchanging. “Well, it was a long time ago, you were visiting the royal palace when I was a kid and I sort of challenged you to a fight. You beat me pretty easily.” Law felt a smirk creep onto his face. So this was the young alpha boy he had taught a lesson to all those years ago. “I wanted to uhh say sorry for that day. I realized a lot since then and I was a real jerk.”

“Seems you grew up to possess some sense at least.”

The alpha smiled at him at his acceptance. “Yeah, I hope so. Especially with all of this.” He gestured to the tent and supplies around him.

“Leading the revolutionaries huh? Thought you were all buddy buddy with the royalty.” Law didn’t really care but he was curious as to why this kid was now so against the current regime.

“I can’t sit back and watch the royals take advantage of these people for their own gain.” Law nodded in understanding, even though it technically wasn’t the royals who were causing the suffering. It didn’t matter in the end, he was sure given enough time they would. They were greedy by nature, or at least that's what he kept telling himself. Still, Crocodile’s plan must really be working if someone like Koza was on their side now, if it got him to turn against the omega he vowed to protect all those years ago.

“Well, I won't distract you then.” With that Law left he heard the man call goodbye but he ignored it. His mind was too busy thinking of a blue haired princess. He figured she was somewhere close, but he decided not to search for her. He should get back to Rainbase anyway, especially with this new information. Besides, that pink bastard should have definitely left by now. As Law left he heard a ruckus in town and even saw some flames over a few buildings. Knowing who was there he figured it was best to not get involved, so he continued on his way.

Chapter Text

Law had gotten back to his turtle and was just about to jump on when he felt like something was wrong. It was like the air itself got heavy for a moment. Instinctually he jumped backwards and saw something impact the ground where he was standing.

“My, my you have grown up so well my little omega.” Law felt himself tense at the voice, turning around quickly, he saw the object of his hatred coming down from the sky, landing effortlessly in front of him.

“What do you want?” Law drew his sword, he felt more comfortable with Kikoku in between them.

“Oh little Law won't you put that down? We are family after all.” He could see the glint of the light in his sunglasses as he said it.

“You just attacked me.” Law bit back dryly.

“Just a test my little bird.” He looked back unamused, test or not, he would never believe a word out of that bastard's mouth. Besides that, Law wasn’t in the mood for games.

“What do you want, Doflamingo?”

He sighed dramatically. “Straight to the point huh? It seems my dear Crocy has rubbed off on you after all.” Law continued to stare unmoving, he never knew when he would attack, he had to be ready. “I was very disappointed to have come all this way to deliver a product and not to even get to see my little protege.”

“Protege?” Snorted Law. “You're delusional.”

“What did I do to deserve all of this hostility my dear Law? Have I done nothing but care for you in the past? Accept you into my family and treat you like you were my own? Why would you repay my kindness this way?” To his credit he did a very good job at sounding hurt.

Words like that may have worked on Law in the past but he wasn’t an easily manipulated child anymore.

“You know what you did.” He bit back unamused, his eyes subconsciously darting to the heart tassels on his hat. 

The warlord frowned looking at Law more critically. His gaze lingered on the hat in recognition before he was moving slightly to see the back of his coat. “I see… your coat is for him too then? You are mine you know, not his! Rosi stole you from me . You were meant to be my omega from the day you walked into my hide out strapped with grenades hating the world!” Law could feel the heaviness in the silence that followed. He saw the other flex his hands and he tensed getting ready to fight but he aimed his string at a wispy cloud instead. “I will see you again, little bird, and soon. I would watch your back. Crocodile can’t protect you forever and you were destined to be mine. A god always gets what they want after all.” He shot him one last haunting smile then in a flash of pink he was gone and flying through the sky. 

He made sure to watch the man until he was out of sight before he let down his guard. Doflamingo was not the type of person that you turned your back on. When he was satisfied with the distance, Law turned back to the turtle and quickly made his way back to Rainbase. 

Though he tried not to let them, Doflamingo’s words had gotten under his skin. He hoped he wouldn’t have to see him again anytime soon, despite his parting words. Law knew one thing, he would die before he became that man’s omega.

When he did finally get back to the casino he was in a foul mood. He kept playing all of his interactions back in his head and it was making him exhausted. All he wanted to do was to go lay in bed, but he knew that he should make his report to Crocodile.

Much to his delight the man was in his basement office and that meant one thing: Tang. Law walked into the room completely ignoring Crocodile and going over to tap the water in a pattern she would recognize. Within moments the giant banana-gator was breaching the water and smothering the omega in front of him. Law was thankful he had his fruit because he was sure that she would suffocate him by accident one of these days without it.

“Still mad at me, I take it?” He heard the man's voice call across the room. Law wasn’t paying him any attention, focusing on the other needy lizard in the room. “Oh, come on brat I thought you would be happy to go on a mission on your own again. Not to mention you got to avoid dealing with him.” Law could tell he was trying to smooth it over, but he was still annoyed.

“He came to find me.” He could feel a weird energy in the air when he said that, but he didn’t bother to look over his shoulder at the man.

“What?” He must have been mistaken because he thought he heard a hint of panic in his tone.

“He found me on my way back here, tried to get me to go with him.” He did his best to sound casual.

“Is that all he did?” His voice sounded closer now, he turned his head and saw Crocodile was much closer and seemed to be inspecting him.

“Yeah.” He lied.

“Then why are you so shook up?” He hated how that man could see right through him.

“I am not ‘shook up’.” Law defended trying to dodge the issue. 

“Don’t lie to me kid, I know you better than anyone.” Law grit his teeth and bit back the urge to argue, knowing it was true. Crocodile did know him better than anyone else, well at least anyone currently living.

“He just… said some things, that's all. You know how he is, just trying to get under people's skin and be a general nuisance.” He tried his best to play it off, but judging by the look on Crocodile’s face and the way he was looking at Law’s neck he gathered he might have a slight idea as to what Doflamingo had said. 

“I will kill that bastard if he ever tries.” Law froze just for a moment surprised by the viciousness in the man’s voice but soon he found himself smiling softly. 

He could tell that Crocodile really meant it. The idea of Doflamingo taking Law away was getting to him. He couldn’t help but to feel a small bit of warmth inside him at the thought. “I will kill that bastard someday anyway, so you don't have to worry.” Law said, trying to calm him down.

He enjoyed the evil smile that stretched across the man’s face. “Of that I have no doubt.” He walked back over to his chair. “Now tell me how everything went.”

He explained to him how his meeting had gone, how he had run into the Whitebeard commander and also seen Luffy in town. “Yeah those damn pirates survived, took some more of our agents down with them.” He took a drag from his cigar. “After tracking their movements it looks like they are headed this way. They are crossing the desert on foot though, so we should have a day or two before they arrive. That being said, I have already made preparations.” He shifted and got a serious look on his face. “The real issue is the Navy is here right now as well, more specifically a man named Smoker, he has a real reputation for being a pain in the ass.”

“I have no problem taking care of some stupid marine if it comes to it.” Law may be conflicted about Vivi, but he would never feel conflicted about the marines. Cora-san was the only exception he would ever make in that department. 

“Good, I would like to avoid it, but it may come to that. Keeping my warlord title as far as the world government goes is very important right now.” Law nodded in understanding. It would be pointless for them to take over the country only to have the government take it all away from them.

Crocodile looked at him like he was studying him again. “Why don’t you get some rest before we have to deal with these pirates tomorrow. Besides, after this the plans will be set in motion and it will be time to make our move, it sounds like the revolutionary army is ready to strike.”

Law gave some last scratches to Tang before leaving to go to his room. He was really looking forward to shower right now. He got to his door, opening it, sighing in relief as he got inside, closing it behind him.

“Good your back, I thought your body might be dehydrating in the desert or being eaten by bugs.” Law jumped at the voice, but he knew it wasn’t an intruder.

“You have such little faith in me.” Law commented, going further into his room and taking his coat off. He turned to see she was sitting on his bed, book in hand. “Matter of fact, what are you even doing in here? Don’t you have your own room to fill with your positive thinking?” It was weird for her to be in here. What? Was she worried about him or something?

“You were right about that man; he was positively awful.” She said ignoring his question.

Law snorted. “Yeah, that he is.” Law crossed his room and sat on the bench below his window crossing his legs and looking at her expectantly. She was here for a reason he was sure. He could tell she was looking at him similarly to how Crocodile had just been. What the hell did Doflamingo say to make everyone on edge?

“He was trying to barter for you, you know.”

Law felt his eyes get wide for a moment, but he couldn’t say he was really surprised. Ahhh that explained it. Of course, Doflamingo would try to make a trade for him like he was some sort of farm animal.

“Crocodile put a stop to it obviously, wouldn’t even entertain it but…” He could tell her eyes were filled with worry. “I can’t say the thought didn’t cross my mind of him trying to take you anyway.”

Law looked away from her crossing his arms now as well, not knowing how to process the concern in her voice. “Yeah well, he did try sort of… He found me on my way back but even he isn’t bold enough to take me directly with Crocodile around. Especially since he had to have figured out that Crocodile is making a grab for the crown. Wouldn't do good to anger a fellow king.”

He could feel her gaze on him. “Doesn't mean he won't be biding his time and waiting to see the outcome.”

Law looked at her now trying to see through her mask but as usual he couldn’t quite understand what she was thinking. “I am sure he will but, Crocodile won’t lose, and I am not some weak omega, so we don’t have anything to worry about.” 

She continued to look at him, studying his face, searching for what exactly Law didn’t know. She must have been satisfied because she stood up taking her book with her. “Well, that is good to hear, don’t let me get in your way any further, I am sure you are tired.”

Law watched her walk to the door, and he felt words start to tumble out of his mouth before he realized he was saying them. “Uh thanks or whatever.” He didn’t know exactly what he was thanking her for, but he was sure she would understand. The warm smile she sent his way was proof of that.

“Goodnight Law.” And with that the door was shut behind her.

Law stared at the closed door for a moment before stripping the rest of the way and getting into the shower. He let the cool water cascade over him, and he tried to get his thoughts to calm down. The only thing he could do now is sleep, he was safe here and Doflamingo could not get to him. What he needed to do now was to get some rest so he could help Crocodile to succeed in his gambit. All that mattered now was that Crocodile won.

Law lay in bed that night and sleep came to him surprisingly easy. Despite everything he felt a sense of safety here he had never experienced anywhere else. He had people here to watch his back, a foreign concept for him but not an entirely unwelcome one. He had built a home for himself here in Alabasta, one that he hoped to keep. As he drifted off he didn't even realize his thoughts had wandered to the calming smell scent he had smelled earlier...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“What do you mean you got to hang out with Torao?!” Luffy whined in disbelief. It was so unfair! Apparently before Luffy came into town Ace and Torao had been hanging out and having drinks and everything! Not to mention Torao never showed back up before Luffy had to leave town like he said he would. 

“Sucks to be you, little brother!” Ace stuck his tongue out at him antagonistically. “Guess I am just cooler than you.”

Luffy jumped onto Ace tackling him into the sand, though there was no real aggression in his actions. “Ace, you're such a jerk! Torao is mine! You can't have him!”

Everybody froze and looked at Luffy for a moment. Luffy didn’t understand why though, he was just saying what he felt.

“Luffy, you can’t be serious!” Usopp yelled in disbelief, the first to break the silence.

“Yeah, I mean you don’t even know the guy and he is the enemy!” Nami tried to reason with him.

Luffy crossed his arms getting off of his brother and looking at his crew. “I don’t care! Torao smells good and Ace can’t have him!” He didn’t know what it was about him, but he just knew that he wanted Torao to be by his side. He had never felt something so strongly before, but he had learned to trust his instincts.

Sanji shook his head in disbelief at his captain. “Luffy do you even know what you're saying?” 

Zorro looked at Luffy skeptically “Yeah Luffy it's not like you have been interested in omegas before.” 

Ace however stood up and grabbed the straw hat off of Luffy's head and started to mess up his hair. “Awwww is this your first little crush on an omega?”

Luffy started to push back against him. “Stop it Ace!” The two of them ended up wrestling in the sand again.

“He is hopeless.” Nami said, looking at them.

Vivi however stood there quietly studying Luffy. She didn’t know why but she felt a small bit of hope building in her stomach at those words. Silently to herself she wished that this foolish alpha might actually be able to sway their stubborn omega enemy. She couldn’t help but to think of his code name: Heart. It was the only name that didn’t fit with the pattern. He had obviously chosen it for himself given the hat. Due to the nickname she just had to hope that somewhere in there, underneath the defensiveness and anger, there was still a heart that could be reached. 

Chapter Text

The next day Law was on edge waiting for the pirates and princess to arrive, not to mention Crocodile’s plan was so cartoonish there was no way it was actually going to work, and he had told the man as such. Who would look at a sign that said pirates this way and follow it and not expect a trap? You would have to be a complete moron to actually fall for something like that…

Law stood there in disbelief looking at the pirates and marine that had fallen into the cage. He didn’t understand how anyone could fall for that trap, it didn’t help that Crocodile was sitting there looking at him so incredibly smug. Law was never going to hear the end of this.

“That was a pretty clever trap.” He overheard Luffy say to his beta friend who instantly agreed. The captain then touched the sea stone cage and fell to the ground "Hey what gives? Why am I feeling so weak?" Law didn’t understand why Crocodile was worried about these idiots. They didn’t seem like they were going to be an issue to him.

He was still staring at them in disbelief when the marine hit Luffy pinning him down. All of them then started to argue amongst themselves. It seemed they were still unaware of their current company. It wasn’t long until Crocodile interjected, unsurprisingly pulling the attention to himself.

“You're all going to die together so why not make an effort to get along first?” Law could see the giant smirk on the man's face, he could tell just how much he was enjoying this.

They all turned their attention to him and Crocodile began taunting the Marine about how he knew he never believed that Crocodile was actually on the side of the World Government, and it was a part of the reason why he would have to get rid of him. To the Marines credit he didn’t look scared in the slightest.

“Wait your Crocodile!?” Luffy yelled, rushing up to the bars again. “Come fight me yourself then you big dumb…” His yelling trailed off as he touched the sea stone and fell to the ground.

“Pay attention stupid, don’t touch the bars!” The beta yelled and again the captain didn’t seem to take offense to his ‘lesser’ yelling at him like that. It was weird, he was oddly lenient for an alpha. 

“I will say I am impressed you made it this far Strawhat Luffy, however I promise to dispose of you quickly and efficiently, well that is once our guest of honor has arrived.” Law felt a bit of unease at Crocodiles words, but he knew that they would have to deal with Vivi eventually. “Why even as we speak my partner is on her way to fetch her.” He should have been with Robin, but he had chosen to remain behind instead.

The smell of angry alpha was increasing every time Crocodile opened his mouth and Law was wishing they had put better ventilation in there. Luffy seemed to be the worst offender, wearing his emotions on his sleeve. That also meant Law could smell the change the moment he noticed him standing there.

“Oh, hey Torao!! You're here too!!” The way he was looking at Law was sort of reminiscent of a dog who has seen their owner after a long day at work.

“Strawhat-ya.” He greeted monotony hoping he would get the hint he wasn’t interested.

“Toraooo you should let us out of here!” He whined looking at him with wide pleading eyes.

Law almost snorted at the ridiculousness of that statement. “Yeah, I will get right on that.”

“Thanks Torao, I knew you were a good guy!” The redhead reached over and hit her captain on the head. 

“He was being sarcastic, you idiot! Stop flirting with the enemy!”

Luffy just rubbed his head but didn’t make any retaliation. “But Nami it's Torao! He isn’t the enemy.” He whined.

“I assure you I am very much your enemy Strawhat-ya.” Law interjected. “Also stop calling me by that stupid nickname.” 

“When I get out of here, I am going to bring you all to Impel down.” Smoker snapped, clearly getting annoyed at Luffy’s antics.

“You won't get the chance, Smoke-ya, and you won't be leaving this room alive either. A fast death is more than a government dog like you deserves, though it is unfortunately all we have time for.” Law shifted his sword menacingly at the marine.

It was then that they were interrupted by the door swinging open. Everyone's attention was pulled to the one who entered.

“Welcome princess of Alabasta, or should I say Miss Wednesday.” Crocodile greeted, he had set up a table full of food and gestured for her to take the empty seat on the other side from him. Law chose to stand away from the table, leaning against the far wall instead. “I commend you on making it this far past all of our assassins.” 

“You have no idea what I would do or how far I would go to see you dead, Mr. 0.” She spat back at him, full of venom. “I wish that you died in your cradle you monster!” Then she charged at him jumping onto the table and knocking some food to the ground. Law could feel the anger and sadness inside her coming out in waves. He had to look away, he knew what the end result would be. “This country would be safe if it wasn't for you!”

Law heard the sound of her weapon connecting but he knew it would do nothing to the man, in fact there really was nothing at all that the princess could do to him. The ones in the cage didn’t seem to realize as they started to cheer for her, well except for Smoker.

“Not going to work.” He heard him mumble. 

He saw sand start to fly all around but remained quiet in the corner. His eyes mostly watched the alpha in the cage. He seemed to have forgotten about Law in favor of Vivi and for that he was thankful.

“Feel better?” He could hear Crocodile mocking her before he materialized behind her and holding onto her. “Maybe I should just make you a mummy and end this right now?”

“LET GO OF HER RIGHT NOW! I mean it!! I will come out there and kick your ass so hard!” Luffy was yelling desperately, but Law knew that yelling was all he could do from inside the cage. 

“Have a seat princess.” He put her in a chair as Robin bound her to it, Law hadn’t noticed her enter. After she was done, she quietly made her way to stand by him as Crocodile took his chair across from Vivi again. Neither of them acknowledged the other but he felt slightly more comfortable with her beside him. “It's almost time for our party after all. Isn't that right Miss All Sunday?”

Robin looked down at her clock. “Yes, it is noon now which means it is time to start operation Utopia.” Law resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the name.

He could hear the confusion this statement caused among the ones currently trapped. “Hey, what is an Operation Utopia!?” Luffy yelled, ignoring the hushes of his crew mates.

Crocodile just smiled evilly, reveling in the moment. “It will mean the end of Alabasta as you know it.”

“What are you going to do to Alabasta? To my father!?” Vivi yelled, tugging uselessly on her restraints.

“Oh, don’t worry, I won't harm a hair on his pretty little head, at least not personally. Instead, I will allow him to experience a humiliation worse than death.” He blew some of his smoke right at her.

Vivi just glared back yelling at him in defiance. “You bastard!! What is this operation Utopia!? I demand that you tell me!”

He just laughed, smoking his cigar. “You demand it? I don’t think you are in the position to be making demands, princess.”

“Tell me you bastard!?” She was really struggling now, Law wondered briefly if she might tip the chair over entirely.

“Very well, I suppose there is no harm in telling you, the operation is underway already after all.” Law knew it was really all just an excuse to brag about his plans. If there was one thing Crocodile liked to do it was to rub the fact that he was smarter than you in your face. It was something he both liked and disliked about the man. Law tried to tune him out as he ranted, instead focusing on the alpha in the cage. He was still holding onto the bars trying to get through, though it was clearly an impossible task. Law didn’t really understand why he was so mad to begin with, what made him want to save this country? Had he fallen for the princess or had she promised him a big reward? The look on his face though… it seemed like he was truly getting mad for the people of this country. Why would someone care so much for strangers like that? It was stupid, foolish and… a brief flash of blonde and black went into his mind, it was… kind of like him.

“STOP IT!!!” The princess screamed, pulling Law out of his thoughts. The sound of her pained voice drew his eyes to her against his better judgment. It was the scream of a wounded animal though she was physically untouched. 

“It's heartbreaking isn't it? Their love for their kingdom will be what destroys it?” He laughed again clearly savoring the moment as he puffed on his cigar. 

Luffy continued to try to fit himself through the bars to get to Vivi, still yelling about how he was going to kick Crocodile’s ass. Law just couldn't believe he still had the energy. Luffy stole back his attention as he just couldn't help but to watch him continue to struggle even though it was pointless. In Law’s distraction Vivi had decided to tip over her chair and started to inch on the ground resembling a worm.

“I will stop you! I just have to get to Alubarna and I can stop the rebels.” 

As his attention returned once again to her struggle, he was trying to ignore how he was feeling on the inside. They had to win this, he knew they had to win this fight, but watching how hard Vivi was trying, how she would not give up no matter what was… making him feel regret. He tried to push it down, it didn’t matter, none of it mattered. “Just give up princess.” He called trying to keep his voice devoid of emotions. “It is pointless to continue to fight.” Just give up and leave ! He wanted to yell but he knew better than to do something like that, especially since he didn’t really care about her.

She turned her head to glare at him for where she was on the floor. “I will never give up! I will never stop fighting for my people! I will make it to Alubarna! You won't get away with this! None of you!”

“Well, what a coincidence, we were just heading to Alubarna ourselves, if you would like to come with us you are more than welcome, or,” He held out a key in front of him, “you could always try to save them.”  

He started to dangle the key in front of her before dropping it. Vivi started to struggle harder, even breaking the ropes but at the last-minute Crocodile opened up a trap door causing the key to fall. “The rebel forces are on their way to Alubarna currently, in order to meet them there you would have to leave immediately no time to waste on saving these fools.” He laughed. “You can still try to save them if you want of course, but it doesn’t help that I have accidently dropped the key into the Bananagator’s den.”

Law watched as two gators started to make their way towards the key. He groaned realizing one was Tang, she probably thought this was some sort of game. Without really thinking Law activated his room and switched her for an apple that had fallen on the floor next to him when the table was knocked over. 

“There is an Alligator growing out of that banana!” Luffy yelled pointing at her hulking form when she appeared. To his credit Luffy just seemed in awe of her while he could tell everyone else was filled with unease.

Crocodile looked at him with an eyebrow raised and Vivi watched in shock as the other gator below ate the key.

“She is on a strict diet.” Law justified, with a straight face as Tang came up and started to push his arm with her snout.

“Vivi, just go get the key!” Luffy yelled.

“I-I can't! The Bananagator ate it! Those things are some of the most vicious predators in the animal kingdom! Going down there would be a death sentence!”

Tang chose that moment to push her whole head against Law’s arm and body forcing him to pet her. He tried to inconspicuously scratch her banana the way she liked.

“They don’t look that scary! Shishi just look at Torao!” It was then that all eyes snapped to Law who was practically holding an entire Bananagator head in his arms. He tried to push her away to preserve his dignity, but he wasn’t successful.

“Yes, well they are rather partial to the ones who feed them, especially to the one who sneaks them extra food,” Law felt his face heat up slightly and he hoped it wasn’t noticeable, “but make no mistake, they will look at you and only see a meal.” Crocodile smirked evilly at them making the beta man shriek and hide behind the swordsman.

“Well, we must be going, time is of the essence. Oh, and speaking of time, this entire room will be destroyed in just under an hour. This room has served me well but after an hour it will be completely filled with water. Unless you are a fish or one of my gators, I doubt you will survive.” He laughed again. “The pirates or your people? I wonder what you will choose?” He turned to Law and Robin. “Time for us to go.”

They both nodded, Robin falling in line behind him. Law created his room, putting Tang back in the water first. He didn’t want her to get hurt trying to eat anyone. He could hear Vivi yelling at them calling them monsters and saying they would kill her no matter what she chose, but Law just tried to tune it out. Maybe he was making the wrong choice and maybe he was making the right one, either way his choice had already been made. 

“Vivi, you have to go get the key I know you can!” Law turned towards Luffy's voice for a moment, taking him in one last time.

“Oh begging for your life now Strawhat Luffy?” Crocodile smirked, turning around.

“I am not begging for my life but if I don't get out of here then who is going to kick your ass!?!?!” Law felt his eyes widen as he looked at him. He was being serious, he really thought that he could beat Crocodile. Law was… sort of impressed with his tenacity. “Then we are going to save Alabasta and take Torao with us!!” Never mind this alpha was an idiot.

“Keep dreaming.” Law bit back trying his best to glare at him, but he noticed his heart started to beat faster at those words. He needed to get a grip.

“Don’t flatter yourself, you small fry.” He turned back to Vivi. “You are right though, Miss Wednesday, I would have killed you if you decided to come with us and I do plan to kill you now.” He turned to look at Law. “Heart.” Law activated his room, switching a different Bananagator inside. “Why don't we let nature take its course then.”

Vivi stood tall and did bravely try to fight the Bananagtor but it was much too big and strong for someone like her to defeat. It got her on the ground and Law felt himself tighten his hold on the sheath of his sword. This was going to be it, the princess was going to die here, and it would be over.

Padadadadada  Padadadaddada

Everybody froze as Robin’s snail began to ring. She answered it, tilting the receiver to Crocodile.  “Hello, can you hear me?” Someone called from the other end.

“Hurry up and state your business what it is?” Crocodile barked out in annoyance.

“Welcome to the crap cafe… ring any bells? No? What about this, Little Garden?” The ones in the cage clearly recognized who was on the phone and they started talking amongst themselves.

“Ah yes, now, mind telling me who you are?”

“Hmmm you can call me Mr. Prince.” Law racked his brain as he tried to think of who the voice on the snail was, then he looked at the cage more critically, the blonde omega was missing. How could Law have forgotten?

“Why don’t you tell me where you are?” He could tell the guy had gotten under Crocodile’s skin, but he was doing his best to play it cool. 

“I would but I have a feeling if I did that you would just try to find me and get rid of me. Even though I highly doubt you actually could, I would never give out information needlessly like you do.” Oh yeah, this guy was getting under his skin.

Then he heard an explosion and one of the guards answered, assuring Crocodile that everything was alright, and they had captured the man. 

“So where are you? speak up!” He called impatiently.

“In the front of the casino, by the doors.” Crocodile clicked the snail off and the three of them left to see what was left of the man out front. On the way out Law couldn’t help but to steal a look back and he noticed sharp brown eyes locked onto his. What was with this alpha? Law supposed it didn’t matter because he would die here, and Law wouldn’t have to deal with him or these weird feelings anymore. He tried not to acknowledge that their part of him that was sad about that.

Chapter Text

Law tried not to think too hard about what they had left behind in the basement. It's not like it was his fault, he had warned them and tried to get them to leave. It was their own fault, they didn't listen.

“Oh, Sir Crocodile, did you hear the news?” Some older gentleman had come up to them on their way out of the casino.

“Oh yes terrible just terrible.” To his credit he was good at acting.

“The rebel army and the royal army should be clashing today!” The older man seemed actually worried about the situation.

“Well, I can’t say I am surprised with a king like this, one who just lets pirates attack his cities. Terrible news honestly. I always thought something like this might happen if he continued to let this country suffer.” He then brushed past the guy and Robin and Law followed him. 

“Oh my gosh its Crocodile!” People seemed really excited to see him. Law just tried to keep a bit of distance so people wouldn't notice him too. 

“Popular as always.” Robin remarked as they made their way to the exit. 

“Just how he likes it.” Law mumbled earning him a small laugh from the woman.

When they got outside the smirk however was completely wiped off of Crocodiles face. Their men lay completely defeated around the casino. They were the last of their guards, it was now just them and the elite members. 

“Hey, who did this?” Crocodile kicked over one of the men lying prone onto his back. “Tell me who did this.”

The man was clearly in pain, but he spoke anyway. “It was this guy… He was so strong we couldn’t…” He started to cough and hold his torso. “He called himself Mr. Prince.”

“I thought you idiots had caught him? Where the hell did he go?” He snapped.

“H-He headed towards the south part of town.” Their heads all turned up just in time to see someone conspicuous turn a corner and run in the other direction. 

“You can run but I will find you!” Crocodile was clearly about to rush off after him.

“You know you could just let it go.” Robin chimed in clearly amused at how worked up he was.

“Oh no if someone defies me, they pay the price!” He turned to Law. “Make sure things go smoothly in my absence.” Then he was off flying as sand through the crowd and after the blonde. 

Suddenly the bridge behind them collapsed blocking off their way back in. Well Law could have always just shambled them across but there was no reason to do so… unless… They both turned back to look at the building.

“Should we go back and check it out?” Law wondered aloud, though he didn’t really want to.

“I don’t really feel like getting wet today, how about you?” She replied.

Law smirked back at her, she clearly understood his reluctance. “I agree.” The two of them then waited for Crocodile’s return, when he did so he was clearly pissed off. 

“Let's go make sure they all drowned.” He grumbled, lighting up a cigar. Law then shambled them all over to the other side, switching them with some rubble. They went through the casino again and down into the basement. All three of them froze at the sight that awaited them. An empty cage, a bunch of passed out bananagators, and a beat-up Mr. 3 laying on top of one of them with some kind of note taped to him.

Crocodile instantly read the taunting paper, turning around in anger. Law however was searching the beat-up gators looking for Tang. Much to his delight she surfaced from the corner seemingly unharmed. He wondered exactly how she had escaped that fate but didn’t put too much thought into it. She was alright and that was all that mattered.

“Let's go, we will not let them escape.” The three of them rushed out of the casino, they had an advantage in tracking because they knew the destination the group would be headed. It didn’t take too long to spot them, unfortunately they were on top of a giant crab, and they were escaping. Law was about to activate his room and switch them off, but it seemed Crocodile wanted to take care of this himself. He extended his hook using his sand and used it to grab the princess and drag her over to them. He could hear her screaming as he was pulling her through the air. It was then that something peculiar happened. Luffy reached out grabbing the princess and switching their places, while throwing her back to the crab. 

“You guys go on ahead, don’t worry about me!” This man seemed truly okay with the idea of sacrificing himself to save his friends. “It's up to you! Make sure Vivi gets home safe!” Law had to hand it to him, it was commendable. His friends clearly understood the gravity of this situation and they immediately took off on the crab leaving their captain behind.

Law stared at where Luffy lay on the sand, completely uncaring that this was about to be his last moments alive. There was no way that this runt would ever have a chance of defeating someone like Crocodile. 

“You have taken this nonsense too far, don’t you agree Strawhat?” The warlord called over to him.

“Nonsense? Vivi doesn't see this as nonsense. She genuinely cares about others, about this country! I guess deep down she is an optimist, she really thinks that nobody needs to die.”

Law felt a small pang in his chest, and he turned his gaze away. Vivi, that fool, so innocent and naive. 

“She thinks that nobody needs to die?” He laughed. “The problem with idealistic fools like Vivi is they take a stand without realizing what is at stake or what is truly involved in a real fight. Wouldn’t you agree?”

Law expected the man to argue, expected him to defend her point of view but instead. “Yep.” He stood up dusting off his clothes. “It doesn’t matter though because Vivi is going to fight you until she wins or dies trying.” He leveled a truly scary glare at Crocodile. “So that just means that I will take you down right here and now!”

“Hahaha such a foolish boy.” He smirked over at him. “Despite what idealistic idiots like that princess cry about, there is one constant truth. In battle it is kill or be killed, there is no other way, and that's why I have no problem putting a bullet in any bleeding heart I meet!”

“Yeah, and that only proves you're the bigger fool here.” He started to crack his knuckles looking at Crocodile without fear. Law felt himself a little in awe of the kid, especially when he caused Croc to bite his cigar in half. He heard Robin giggle beside him. 

“Something funny Nico Robin? Or would you like to die here as well?” Law's eyes darted to Crocodile; he wasn’t being serious… was he?

Robin just smiled, turning away. “You can try if you like, besides that, I thought you promised not to call me by that name?” She continued to walk away.

“Where are you going?” He grumbled at her.

“I will see you in Alubarna.” She called behind her disappearing back towards the casino. Law looked after her in confusion, where exactly was she going?

“Damn woman, I will never figure her out.” The warlord turned his attention back to Luffy throwing an hourglass shaped object on the ground. “You have three minutes of my time.”

Law took a few steps back not wanting to get involved, it seemed that snapped Luffy’s attention to him. “Three minutes is all I need to kick your ass! Then I can help Vivi and then take Torao on adventures!” He declared not breaking eye contact with Law.

This only seemed to make Crocodile more upset. “You will be losing here Strawhat and you will not be taking Law anywhere, nor does he need your help. I assure you he is here of his own free will.”

“If I win, will you come with me Torao?” He asked sincerely.

Law felt his face heat up and he wanted to yell back in defense but for once he felt himself at a loss for words. He felt his mouth opening and closing, was the desert always this hot? 

“If I were you, I would focus on winning first, not posturing for some omega. Three minutes is more than enough time for me to kill you.” He could hear the annoyance in his voice.

“Torao is not just some omega! Torao is going to be my mate!” Law’s mouth was now completely open.

Those words however caused his mind to kick into gear. “What the hell is wrong with you!?” He yelled in indignation. “You don’t just get to decide things like that!”

Luffy tilted his head in confusion. “But I mean it To-” Luffy didn’t get a chance to finish his sentence because suddenly a pillar of sand was shooting at him causing him to dodge out of the way.

“That will never happen kid. Law wouldn’t be swayed by some no name alpha like you. You will die here, and I will take over this country. You have two and a half minutes left.”

It seemed that Luffy’s focus was now completely on the fight. Luffy tried to hit him, but the warlord turned into sand dodging easily, then he appeared with his hook trying to strike his face, but Luffy dodged. Law watched Luffy dodge and fight in awe, the kid was strong and fast for his size. It was honestly kind of impressive. Law shook his head back and forth. No, he would not be impressed by this alpha who just came in here claiming that he smelled good, and he wanted him to be his mate. Who even says that? How could he even see Law and think that he wanted to be his mate? Sure, alphas hit on him all the time, but they were just chasing their knot, none of them had ever actually wanted to mate with him. That was such an intimate experience for an omega and an alpha and… and… just what was wrong with this idiot?!

While Law was busy having his crisis it seemed the fight was coming to an end, just like Law knew it would. There was no point in even thinking about being mated to Luffy because this was about to be his end, not that he was thinking about it in the first place. 

“Your three minutes are now up, I don’t have time to fool around with you any longer.” He put his hand up creating a tornado of sand. “Sables.” The tornado started to grow and grow in size. “Now Strawhat, the question is, if the winds here blow north to south and I let this sandstorm go, where will it hit?” Law could tell by the pleased look on the mans face that Luffy would not like the answer. 

“Tell me!” He demanded standing there out of breath.

Crocodile smirked at him. “It will hit Yuba.”

Law could see the horror on Luffy’s face, but he didn’t understand. “Not that old man! Leave him out of this!” He crossed over getting close to Crocodile, Law thought he was going to attack but instead he held onto the man's coat. “Why are you doing this? Just stop! Stop it or… I swear I will kill you, you bastard!!” He yelled into his face, the warlord seemed unbothered. He then let go and tried to fight the sandstorm itself only to be pushed back.

“It is useless Strawhat, Yuba is finished.” Luffy rushed back over grabbing onto his coat again.

“If you don’t end this now I will!” Then everything seemed to freeze as Crocodile pierced him with his hook. Law stood there staring in disbelief, it was almost like subconsciously he actually thought the kid might win with his spirit alone.

“Did you think that you were my equal? Did you really think there was a chance that you would save this country and take Law from me? Pathetic.” Law staired unmoving as Luffy lay there hanging from his hook. He felt his fingers twitch towards his sword but he did nothing. 

Law watched as Luffy’s blood and water from the flask he had been carrying dripped down Crocodiles arm. This was it then, this was the end. Suddenly his hand reached out and started to crush his arm. He heard the other yell out in pain before throwing him into the quicksand he had created during the fight. He fell to the bottom writhing in pain and Crocodile smiled as he slowly buried him beneath it. 

“What a waste of time.” He boasted before walking away. Law however stood there frozen looking at the spot in the sand where he disappeared.

“Heart, let's get going.” He called not turning around. 

“I… I will meet you there.” He said surprising himself.

The other frowned, turning to face him. “Don’t want to come with me? What, don’t tell me you actually liked that dumb alpha?”

Law looked away in indignation. “Of course not, I just want to find Robin.”

He raised an eyebrow at him but turned back to continue on his way. “Keep an eye on that woman, will you? I don’t trust her.”

“Of course.” He agreed and soon the other was gone in a flurry of sand while Law stood there staring down at the spot where he knew Luffy lay. 

He couldn’t help but to mourn the man, though he didn’t know why he was feeling this way. It wasn’t like he was actually going to run away with this alpha or anything but something about him was different. He never once saw him treating anyone on his crew as less than, he fought as hard as he could for people who didn’t even know him, and he sacrificed his life for the ones he cared about. It was a shame there weren’t more people like him in the world, and it was a shame that his light got snuffed out this soon. It sadly reminded him so much of Cora-san.

He stood there for awhile in silence before he turned to follow Crocodile, it had gotten late, and he needed to catch up. He much preferred crossing the desert at night anyway. Just as he turned, he thought he heard the sound of sand falling, he brushed it off thinking it must have just been the sand shifting but all of a sudden, he heard the undeniable cry of “MEAT!”

Law jumped, turning around and looking back into the pit. He saw a head above the sand as he struggled to get himself out of the hole. It was incredible that this kid hadn’t died, that he still had so much will to survive. Without thinking, Law activated his room, switching him for a grain of sand up top.

He expected to be greeted with malice but instead he smiled at him. “Oh, hey Torao it's you. Thanks for getting me out of there.” Law just stared back in shock not understanding this alpha at all. Law then did something he didn’t quite understand, he activated his room and started fixing the stab wound.

“Shishi Torao, are you helping me?”

“No.” He bit back firmly though that was clearly not the case.

“Shishi Torao is the best.”

Law looked at him in disbelief. “I really am not and if you know what is good for you, you will leave this country.”

Luffy just smiled a goofy back at him and Law stiffened as he felt him lay a hand on his arm. “Thanks for being worried about me, but I have to go help my friends, they are counting on me.”

“I-I am not worried about you Strawhat-ya! I don't care if you live or die!” Though that probably would have sounded more convincing if he hadn’t been stitching his muscle tissue back together. 

“Ahh it seems we both had the same idea.” Law almost jumped standing up at the sudden intrusion, his room shimmering out. He turned around to see the smiling face of Robin. 

“This isn’t what it looks like I- wait, same idea?” He tilted his head at her curiously. 

“Don’t worry Law, you have nothing to fear from me.” She stepped around him to look at Luffy. It seemed she had something to ask him. “Why do you fight? Those of you with the name D?” Law’s eyes widened at that, why was Robin curious about the D’s? Should Law be careful around her too? Or maybe did she know something about it, something Law didn’t?

“D?” Luffy asked confused. It seemed he understood just about as much of it as Law did.

Robin sighed. “Apparently you don’t have a clue what I am talking about.” Then she made some hands appear with his straw hat and threw it to herself.

“I FOUND YOU!” He heard a voice call from behind. They both turned in surprise to see Pell limping at them trying to put on a brave front. “Where is Princess Vivi?!” He demanded, hand on his sword.

This was getting too crowded for Law’s taste. “Awake already?” she teased him, and he realized something. She was ordered to kill that man and yet here he was, still walking around. She had come here to help Strawhat… did that mean she was against them? Then again Law had helped Luffy too so what did that say about him? 

“I studied your ability! This won’t turn out like it did last time! I will defeat you and your partner over there! I have no choice!” Robin just smirked and tossed the straw hat onto Luffy who was still laying there in the sand. 

“I would be careful there Pell, don’t want to overexert yourself.” She made no move to fight him, just quietly watching as he walked towards her. She made eye contact with Law and started to walk away, he noticed she had a gator bike with her, Law would just have to sit on the back. “It is perfect timing really, you can help that pirate over there, he is the only reason princess Vivi is still alive after all. His spirit is also very remarkable, I can't think of anyone else who could survive such a thing.”

She was alluding to the will of D wasn’t she? Is that how Law had survived everything? Was he really somehow connected to this pirate that lay there in the sand? The two of them got on the bike and without further adieu made their way to Alubarna. The alligator running at full speed away from the scene of their betrayal.

Chapter Text

As Law sat behind Robin on the alligator-bike his mind was experiencing a flurry of emotions. Most of which were him wondering if his actions meant that he had betrayed Crocodile. In Law’s head he was loyal to the man, and he wanted him to succeed but… he couldn’t deny that he was cruel and unforgiving in his plans and actions. Law knew that the world was like that and he understood why Crocodile acted the way he did, especially with him being born an omega but… that didn’t mean Law didn’t feel guilty about the plans.

He wondered what Cora-san would have said if he were here? Would he have really supported Crocodile’s plans or would he have taken Law away long ago? Or was… was Crocodile his plan for Law all along? If he knew he was going to die, if he knew Doflamingo was going to kill him, maybe he just hoped that Crocodile would find him. He knew he was a strong omega, though he wasn’t an omega currently, or at least Law assumed Cora-san knew from what little he had been told of their relationship. Maybe it was his plan for Law to stay here with him. Cora-san was dead though and he could never tell him, he was just going to drive himself nuts thinking of different scenarios. 

It didn’t matter anyway, Crocodile had saved him that day, he had raised him and given him a home and asked for nothing in return. He never even asked Law to be a part of the organization; it was something that he had wanted, something he had insisted upon. And then what does he do? He goes ahead and betrays him by helping some dumb alpha who probably only wants to knot him and was probably just talking out his ass about all the mating stuff. Not that it made a difference anyway because there was no way he was interested in someone like that! Not even a little bit.

“Do you want to share what's on your mind?” He heard a familiar voice call. Ah yes, and then there was Robin. Law had grown close with her, well as close as someone like him could. He had trusted her to watch his back on many occasions, but he couldn’t help but to wonder given her recent actions if she was on their side after all. Law really wasn’t in a position to question her loyalty, not after the stunt he had just pulled, but he couldn’t help but to wonder.

“You said back there you would have saved him if I hadn’t, so… why is that?” He asked instead. 

“Hmmm.” She thought for a moment and Law wondered if he was going to get a real answer or not. “I just thought it would be a shame for someone like him to die there, that's all. I suspect you felt something similar?” She had turned her head now and was studying him.

“I don’t know what I was thinking.” He admitted breaking eye contact and looking up at the stars. It was the truth, Law had been trying to figure out exactly why he had done what he did, but all he could come up with were weak excuses. 

They rode in silence for a while before Law spoke again. “I understand that asking this question is an exercise in futility but… are you going to betray Crocodile? Are you going to betray us?” Now it was his turn to study her, though her face seemed as impassive as ever.

“Those are two different questions.” She turned so Law could not see her face. “I never had true loyalty to Crocodile but as long as he does not betray me, I have no reason to go against him.” Law supposed that would have to be enough, he would have to trust in her word, trust that she would still help them.

“May I ask you something?” Law nodded and even though she probably couldn't see him she continued on. “Why are you so loyal to him?”

He felt a bit taken back by that question but he felt the urge to answer honestly. It was just the two of them alone on a bike in the middle of the desert after all, it's not like he would have to worry about anyone overhearing. “Crocodile saved me when I was a kid, my life before was… pretty fucked up if we are being honest. He saved me and he never asked for anything in return, not once.” The man had threatened him in the beginning saying he had to be useful to him or he would leave him on the streets but Law had always seen it for what it was: an empty threat. “He may seem heartless, and sometimes he is but… he has never been that way with me I guess, not really.” Law groaned and put his hand on his face. “Uggg and how do I repay him? By saving the life of some alpha who is trying to ruin everything he has planned for, for years?” He groaned again. “How could I be so ungrateful?”

"I don't think your ungrateful." Robin tried but Law just grunted back in response. “Your secret is safe with me you know?” His head whipped over to look at her. “I won’t say a word.” she made a motion like she was locking her mouth and throwing away the key making Law smirk.

“Yeah, thanks.” Law did appreciate the gesture, he didn’t know what Crocodile would do if he thought Law betrayed him and he didn’t want to find out. He knew Robin would keep his secret though that thought did little to quell the nauseous feeling in his stomach.

As they approached the city Law only felt the feeling get worse. How was he supposed to face Crocodile after what he had done? Judging on how the alpha didn’t listen to Law’s warnings it was only a matter of time before he shows up to Alubarna and then Crocodile will see him and know what he did. He was so incredibly screwed. 

They met up with Crocodile on the outskirts of town and Law was thankful he had already sent the other Baroque works agents off to intercept the incoming pirates. Law was not in the mood to deal with that particular mix of personalities. Besides that, that number two guy always thought it was so funny to wear his face.

“Good you have arrived, I was beginning to think that you would miss it.” It was then that Law noticed he was holding a passed out king in his arms.

Law just looked away saying nothing while Robin simply smiled asking what their orders were. “When the fighting starts we will make our way directly to the palace. I doubt we will find any resistance from the fighters present here but I would like Heart to switch us inside.” Meaning a good amount of them had been paid off but he didn’t want to risk anyone seeing the king.

Law was glad he would be away from the fighting, he really wasn’t in the mood to deal with the pirates and revolutionaries right now. As they heard the sounds of battle starting, Law could tell that Crocodile was enjoying the chaos, enjoying how his plan came to fruition. 

The three of them entered the palace with no problem due to Law’s ability. Crocodile wasted no time heading directly towards the king's chambers. Robin followed him in but Law elected to stay outside. He wasn’t in the mood for more senseless violence, he would just stand guard. 

When Crocodile emerged again it was still with Cobra still tucked unmoving under his arm, but Law could see him putting something shiny in his coat. “Come on, we have another royal to deal with still.” When they threw open the front doors of the palace Law saw their unfortunate next target.

“Miss All Sunday if you please.” Robin did that weird pose with her hands and easily took out the guards by her. The princess turned around in alarm. “Ahh there you are princess, I am surprised to see you made it all this way!” Crocodile called over, looking smug as ever.

“Crocodile!!” She yelled back in anger, stepping towards them. “Tell me where Luffy is!! What did you do!?” Law felt himself look away as she the yelled question. He did not think the topic would come up this quickly. He just needed to play it cool, he could do that. For some reason though when this alpha was involved Law was having a hard time doing that.

“Ahh well I do hate to inform you that he is no longer with us.”

“LIAR! Luffy wouldn’t lose like that!” She yelled, taking another step, though she clearly was no threat to them. “Tell me the truth!”

“The truth? My dear, that is the truth. You should be thankful to him though, you never would have gotten this far without his sacrifice.”

“Tell me where he is!” She yelled again.

“Strawhat is dead princess.” Law kept looking away and just hoped that no one would call attention to him. 

“I don’t believe you!” They were interrupted by the pounding of guards on the palace wall. Without needing to be asked Robin used her devil fruit to create a barrier of hands, stopping them from opening it. He had to hand it to her, her fruit was very useful and she was smart in the ways she used it.

It was then that Crocodile made it clearer to her just who he was holding in his arms. 

“Father!” She yelled but didn’t move forward anymore, it seemed she understood what was at stake. Law winced as Crocodile used his sand to hold him against the wall, piercing his arms with giant nails to keep him in place. 

“Let him go!” Vivi yelled in desperation.

“Do you really think I would have gone through the trouble to immobilize him like that if I were just going to let him go? Think with your head.” He then lit up his cigar. 

“Vivi… I am so sorry.” He heard a voice from behind him and he realized to his surprise it was the king. “I failed you and our nation. I didn’t use the chance you risked your life for.” The king had to have known there was no way he would make it out of this and yet he was apologizing to his people for failing them? It was strange to see royals who so clearly cared for the place that they ruled over, Law almost didn’t think that kind of thing was possible. 

“Father…” She was looking at him with such love and sadness, it wasn’t helping with the nausea he was feeling in his stomach.

Crocodile laughed at the display. “Oh, Come on, is this the best you can do after years apart… anyway, Miss Wednesday-”

“Don’t call me that!”

He chuckled at her protest. “Let me tell you something, I have no intention of keeping you or your father alive. When a new ruler takes over its best to get rid of anyone associated with the old throne.” Law tightened his grip on his sword. “Before we get to that though there is something I need to ask the current king. In fact this has been my true goal.”

This got Law’s attention, though he had already guessed a part of what his true goals were, this would confirm it. “Cobra, tell me, where is Pluton?”

Pluton? Law thought in confusion. He didn’t understand what that meant, it was obviously a code name for something but for what Law wasn’t exactly sure. He could tell the king did though as his eyes got incredibly wide.

“How can… can you know that name?” A new kind of fear and anger radiating from him. 

He just chuckled. “Oh I wouldn't worry about that, the fact is that I do know about it.” He took a drag of his cigar. “An ancient weapon that can destroy an island in one shot. A weapon whose power rivals that of a god .” Law scrunched up his nose at that. Was Crocodile really comparing himself to a god? He couldn’t help but to be reminded of someone else that did that. It made him worry for the man. “The weapon is somewhere in this country, but then again you already knew that, didn’t you, your highness?”

“An ancient weapon? Alabasta really has such a thing?” It seemed Vivi was just as confused as Law was.

“With the use of Pluton this country will become a strong military power under my rule!” He spread his arms like he was already envisioning it in his head. “Under my power this country will flourish like it never has before.”

“How dare you! You are not fit to be this country's monarch!” The guard still standing next to Vivi yelled. 

“Oh but I soon will be.” He mocked. “And once I am, it will be easy to bring all the pirates in this area under my umbrella. With such influence I will just gain more and more power. Eventually I can gain more power than even the world government itself! No one would dare to cross me!”

It was then that Law understood. He wanted to create protection around them, a protection that no one, not even the world government could destroy. It was more than just wanting to rule a country, though he supposed the man did enjoy the ego boost. He was going to create something that no one could take away.

“The World Government would never allow you to wield that much power!” the king yelled in indignation. 

“You're right, they wouldn’t, so now back to my original point, where is the Pluton?” So their enemy, as it had always been since the day they were born, was the World Government. It sort of put Law’s consciousness at ease hearing that. Not entirely, but this was something he could support. The government was an enemy he could fight against.

“You can do what you want to me, but I don’t have the slightest idea of where that weapon is, if it even does exist. Hell it could be a myth for all I know.” Law could tell the man was lying and he was sure the warlord could as well.

“What you say could be true, there are those who believe that the existence of Pluton is just a fable, unfortunately for you I am not among them.” He took a drag off of his cigar. “In about 20 minutes the rebel army should break through your defenses and make their way to that square down there and then in just a half an hour at 4:30, their battle will be interrupted by a bomb that I ordered to be fired into the square kuhahaha.”

He saw the horror creep onto Cobra's face as his words sunk in. “Please you can't, I am begging you!” The king yelled, Law was sure he would have gotten on his knees if he wasn’t pinned to the wall. 

“This is a special bomb, it's so strong it will destroy everything in a 5km radius.” Law scowled as he was very sure he had gotten that bomb from Doffy. 

“But if you do that-”

“Then no one from the royal army or the rebel forces will survive. They will be wiped out and the battle will be over. Aren’t you happy princess? You should be, after all you were the one who wanted them to stop so badly.” He mocked.

Law looked away from the man, the way he was talking, the way he was going about everything. While he understood what he wanted more than anything was to have a safe place that was untouchable by the world government, Law didn’t know if he wanted to go about it this way. With so much death. 

“How can you speak so callously!!?? What did these people ever do to deserve this?! They have lives and families!” She turned to look Law in the eyes. “How could you?”

“Who cares?” Crocodile called back pulling the attention back to himself and Law could tell he truly didn’t, he wondered what had happened in his life to make him that way. So uncaring about others. 

“You don’t have to kill them Crocodile!” She turned to look at Law again. “You don’t have to do this!” It was as if she could sense his hesitance, as if she could tell he was conflicted. He turned away from her because he knew, despite his confliction, he would do nothing to help her.

“Perhaps I won’t if your king answers one final question.” He turned back to Cobra. “There is a poneglyph in this country, where is it?”

“Poneglyph? What are you talking about?” Law was surprised at how little Vivi knew of her own country, it seems her father had not been very open with her about the secrets their country held. 

“If you promise to spare them I will tell you where it is.” He was glaring at the warlord before he bowed his head in defeat. “I will even… show you.” Law felt there was something off about his willingness to come with them but he didn’t question it.

Vivi started to protest. “Father you can't…”

“Kuhaha just what I would expect from a king, what a wise man you are.” 

“Enough!!” The guard yelled, drawing his sword. “I cannot take another second of this!”

There was then some more commotion at the door and Law heard Robin make a small, pained noise and grab her hand. Suddenly more warriors appeared in front of them carrying a variety of weapons. Crocodile looked like he was going to engage but Law stepped in front, he would deal with these newcomers, maybe it might help to appease his guilt.

“Men stop! You will only be throwing your life away!” The king called, Law could hear the strain in his voice. 

“Your Majesty, defending you to the death is not only our mission, it is our purpose! The highest honor and privilege! Therefore we must fight!” The biggest one yelled.

“It seems you four have quite the reputation,” Crocodile looked at them unamused, “leave now and go home and I will spare your lives.” Law was surprised at the uncharacteristic gesture, but he was sure he did not mean it.

“We cannot!” One of the warriors yelled. “We will fight them here and now!” Law examined their bodies and he could tell something was wrong, their muscles seemed to be growing at an alarming rate. 

“Chaka what is happening to them?” Vivi asked her guard.

“They… they drank the fatal elixir… It grants incredible strength but at the cost of the host's life.” He explained.

Vivi looked in horror at the four guards. “No…” He heard her say in a small voice.

“Heh you bulked up just to fight me? I am flattered, though what good is victory if you aren't around to enjoy it?” Crocodile to his credit seemed very amused at the situation.

“Chaka,” The man said, ignoring Crocodile. “Please forgive us but we had to take drastic measures to end this country's suffering. We had no choice.”

Law tilted his sword, and he prepared to fight but to his surprise Crocodile put his hand on his shoulder stepping in front of him. “Don’t waste your energy Heart, this will be easy for me.” True to his word it took him less than a few moments to defeat the four of them, it seemed none of them could do anything even slightly effective against the man.

“I won't let you get away with this!” Chaka yelled at the sight of their defeat and transformed into a jackal-like creature.

“Ahhh a zoan type, no matter, you will suffer the same fate as your friends.” The man ran and struck Crocodile with all that he had, practically cutting the man in two but it would do nothing. “It seems you share a fatal flaw with your friends there, you are willing to die for others.” 

It was fast and swift but soon he joined the other fighters lying motionless on the ground. Law closed his eyes trying to steel himself mentally. He knew who would be next.

“Vivi!” Another voice cut through, one that Law recognized. 

“No… Koza…” She looked at him in horror, Law could tell she didn’t want him to die here too. 

“He must have come through his old shortcut.” He heard the king mumble in surprise.

“Wh-what am I seeing here?” He looked around at the scene in front of him in disbelief. “I came here to try to negotiate but Chaka and the king is… about to be killed by this country's hero? I-I can't believe my eyes.”

Crocodile just laughed at him showing no remorse. “Things are starting to get interesting, here we are in the middle of an epic war and yet the leaders of both sides aren’t on the battlefield, instead fate has placed them squabbling at my feet. A battle to the death by two broken titans bleeding out the last of their power.” Law really wished he would stop talking like that, every time he did he couldn't help but to get flashes of pink. No, he was different, this was different. He wasn’t like Doflamingo, he couldn’t be like him.

“You seem lost and confused.” Robin taunted. “It's only natural, well then let me help you. Try to relax and open your mind, then imagine being faced with the worst possible scenario.” She watched him carefully as it all sunk in.

“Vivi, who was responsible for the drought?” He stepped towards her desperately as she looked in anger towards the warlord.

“It was-”

“That honor belongs to me; it seems everything that you have been attributing to your poor king here was the work of my company all along. It was flawless, a perfect systematic plot of deception.” He took a drag of his cigar. “I must say it was entertaining watching as the royal army in all of its power desperately chased our shadows while welcoming us into their home. Kuahahah it's a pity, you could have just died in ignorant bliss not knowing these brutal facts.”

He could see the panic and confusion on the man's face as it was all sinking in. That everything he had been fighting for was a lie. 

“Koza, listen to me!” The king yelled. “If you act quickly, you might be able to save some lives! Please save as many citizens as you can!” He could tell he was trying to yell but he was exhausted. 

“In less than a half hour a bomb will explode in the square.” Law turned and to his surprise Chaka was still breathing. “You have to go now!” He yelled.

“Oh are you still alive?” with a harsh crack Crocodile struck him and he was silent. Well, he was breathing at least.

Koza immediately turned and ran, not wasting any more time. Law wondered if Crocodile was going to stop him but to his surprise Vivi ran up and tackled him to the ground sitting on top of him and not letting him go.

“Vivi what are you doing get off of me!” He tried to shake her off.

“NO! You have to listen to me! If you go out there and tell the armies about the bomb what do you think will happen?” He looked back at her fiercely. “Everybody will panic, it will just add more chaos to the battle! Even if you stop the bomb, it won't stop the fighting! Either way people are still going to die! You won't save anyone! Understand?”

Law was in shock listening to her, it reminded him of a memory he had pushed down. “I am going to be the first omega ruler of my country!” Looking at her know he thought she would do a good job if she had been given the chance. He had to avert his eyes from her as he realized sadly that she would never get that chance, and Law was to blame.

“What a perceptive girl.” Crocodile commended. 

“The only way to stop the fighting is to do what should have been done in the first place! We have to stop the rebellion and end this bloodshed and you're the only one who can do it!” She looked at him full of confidence. 

Law noticed that Crocodile was disappearing and was reassembling himself close to them. “You really didn't think I was just going to sit back and do nothing did you?” He reached out with his hook and Law looked away, he knew it was coming but that didn’t mean he wanted to see it. To his surprise he didn’t hear him connect instead a sword blocked him. Chaka had gotten up from where he lay and was standing in between them. 

“I am the guardian deity of this country! I will not let you harm Princess Vivi! I will help to protect this country!” He turned to where they were huddled together. “Go I will hold him off! I will fight you as long as there's breath left in my body!”

“Some would call that brave, I call it stupid.” 

The two of them didn’t waste anymore time and they ran down the stairs, both of them yelling for the fighting to stop. “Heart.” Was all he said as he nodded to the pair of them.

Law shifted Kikoku to his shoulder and made his way down the stairs drawing his blade.

“How could you do this? Vivi looked up to you! You were her hero!” Koza yelled at him in anger.

“I never asked to be anyone's hero!” He swung it at the alpha only for Vivi to jump in between. 

“Stop this! I know you don’t want to hurt me!” His blade halted.

“Get out of the way princess.” He held his sword up, but she just stood there with her arms spread. 

“I won’t move, strike me down if you must!” Law stared into her eyes, and he felt his own burning just looking at all of passion. “I know this isn’t you! You have the power to heal, and I have seen you use it! You have helped this country and its people! I don’t hold what he has done against you so please! Please just stop this!” 

“I…” He lowered his sword, he knew Crocodile was counting on him, but he just couldn’t bring himself to strike her.

BANG BANG BANG

Shots rang out and Vivi and Law looked in shock and horror as Koza fell.

“KOZA!!!” Law watched the alpha start to bleed out on the ground as Vivi cried over his body, the fighting then started in earnest around them as sand started to block out the surrounding area.

“STOP YOU HAVE TO STOP!!!” Vivi was screaming but no one could hear her over the noise, and no one could see her through the sand.

 Law just looked on in shock at the bloodshed around them. He jolted when he felt a hand on his shoulder. 

“Your heart always was your weakness.” Law looked away from Crocodile, his own hand coming to the end of his tassel. 

“It's fine, switch us back up top then go secure the bomb, I will take care of the rest here. Make sure you leave energy to teleport yourself away.” He was firm with no room for argument. Law switched the three of them back to the roof.

“Run away Vivi!” Cobra called but she stood tall glaring at Crocodile. 

“I won't.” Her hands were in fists beside her as she stood defiantly before Crocodile. “You made this dust devil, all of this is your doing, isn't it?!” He just smiled back at her. “If I can just get the bomb to stop then-then I can reduce the number of casualties then-.”

He walked towards her grabbing her neck. “If I do this the rebellion will stop, If I do that the rebellion will stop. It's time to wake up princess, I am getting tired of this pathetic idealism.” He lifted her up into the air. “What good is any of it if you can't even make it a reality, nothing more than useless dreams.” Law turned away as he heard the princess struggling for air, he didn’t want to watch this. 

“I won't give up hope and I will never stop fighting.”

“Goodbye Princess.” He let her go over the edge of the palace. Law activated his room not wanting to hear her hit the ground. He didn’t understand how she could be so idealistic right up to the end. 

Right as he was about to switch himself away, he heard Crocodile grumble. “It can’t be…”

Law turned just in time to see the blur of a large bird swoop down and save Vivi. It was then that he heard the unmistakable yell of “CROCODILE!!!!” 

Luffy was here. Law briefly thought he could hear a loud drum beat at his arrival before he realized it was just his own heart beating in his chest.

Chapter Text

Luffy had just landed with Vivi below and was looking up defiantly at them. He could see from where he was standing that the alpha had some weird contraption on his back. Law has been intent on leaving before, but he felt his room fizzle out at the sight of the man, his attention now completely on him.

“How could he have survived his injuries?” He heard Crocodile wondering in disbelief. His head then snapped to Law. “Tell me you didn’t?” His eyes narrowed at him as he averted his gaze saying nothing. “Law. Did you heal him?”

“I…did” He clenched his fists at his side expecting the man to attack him. He had betrayed him, and he deserved as much. To his surprise he didn’t feel any attack. Instead, he just looked at him with a scowl.

 He heard Luffy yelling below and he saw him stretch his arms up to the top of the palace.

“We will talk about this later.” He snapped, turning away from him.

“Crocodile!!!” He flew up into the air and raised his fist to the man. Law had to admire his tenacity, but he knew it would have no effect. Or at least he thought, he was completely surprised when his fist actually landed. He wasn’t using haki so how could he have…? Law’s eyes were immediately drawn to the contraption on his back. Water! Law realized in trepidation. For the first time in his life, he was actually worried about Crocodile in a fight. 

The warlord was thrown across the roof, he had never seen someone hit him like that before. The pirate then reached out, holding him down while spinning his legs around. Luffy was able to hold him in place and he could see the confusion and panic on the warlord's face. As Luffy attacked, Law activated his room without hesitation, switching himself for Crocodile. He may have let Luffy live but there was no way he would let him hurt Crocodile, not while he was there. Just as he went in for the headbutt, Law raised his sword blocking it with Kikoku, though he pushed him back a little with the force.

“Torao hey get out of my way!” He complained and turned to face Crocodile again, but Law just created a room and switched Luffy for some rubble away from them stepping between him and Crocodile. 

“I will not let you harm him.” He said firmly, holding his sword out.

“Torao I really want to fight you but not right now! Right now, I have to kick this guy's ass!” He proclaimed.

“I won't let-”

“Enough!” Crocodile interrupted. “I don’t care if he is able to hit me, I will finish this fight not you.” He stepped in front of him glaring at Law in a way that gave him pause. He had never looked at him like that before. “I gave you a job, Heart. Go do it.”

“But-”

“Now.” He could tell the man was serious and something in his gaze made Law want to leave anyway. He didn’t want him to look at him that way, he had only wanted to help. He hadn’t meant for any of this to happen.

With no further argument left in him he created a large room and switched himself with a grain of sand on the other side of the plaza. He would make his way to the clock tower and make sure the bomb went off. If that was all he was good for then he could at least do that. He walked down the street ducking away from all the fighting. The clocktower was just around the corner now, he would be there soon. 

He was about to turn the corner when he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. He turned around just in time to see a long projectile coming at him. He instinctively brought his sword up, blocking it with Kikoku.

“Well look at you, you little white runt! I am surprised you even saw that coming.” Law’s eyes widened in horror and confusion as he took in the man in front of him, but he could truly be mistaken for no one else.

“What are you doing here Diamante?” Law raised his sword. He was alone in an alleyway with this man, and he was definitely not panicking. He let his eyes wander looking around, were they alone? Could he have a partner? The man didn't give him time to look too long, lashing out with his really long and bending sword. 

Law activated his room, switching himself with a garbage can nearby. Law smirked as the strike scattered garbage around, between that and all of the sand in the air Law was becoming more confident in his chances of winning. He just needed to remember his fighting style from back when he had trained him. The problem with that was back then Law was so small, and Diamante had trained him ruthlessly. Law would never say that he had been afraid of the man, but his body remembered the pain.

“Learned some new tricks I see.” The man stood up and Law could tell that even though he had grown the man was still much taller than him.

“You're a fool if you think that you stand a chance against me.” Law boasted standing confidently. 

He just laughed at Law. “I would never let an omega beat me in a fight.” Yup an alpha asshole just like he remembered. Law chose to focus on that hatred and let it overrule the hesitance in his body. He would win here, there was no other option.

Law charged and the man turned himself thin and easily dodged him, striking out at him in return. Law just switched himself for a grain of sand on the far end of the alleyway. This was going to be an issue. Every time he went to strike at him the other would just change and make it almost impossible to hit him. He had to try something new. Law had been thinking of a move for awhile, he hadn’t had the opportunity to try it on someone he thought deserved it, but this might be the perfect chance.

Law dodged another strike.

His only issue was his paper-thin form. He just needed to figure out a way so when he struck him, he couldn't change. He needed to hit him head on but he only needed to hit him once. He could do this!

Slowly as he was dodging, he switched himself with things that were progressively closer but making sure he was still far enough away the other would be confident he was out of his range. Law focused on expanding his room so it was huge around them, the heat wasn’t helping his stamina, but he would put everything he had into this shot.

It was then that Law tripped, falling down but moving Kikoku beside him in a striking position. As he got to his knees, he predictably saw the sword coming at him. Diamante would not hesitate to hit him while he was down and he would be very confident in his ability to beat Law. They always were. Right when the sword was about to strike him, he waited until it was mere inches from his body, he switched himself with a grain of sand right next to the man thrusting up and piercing his body. He then focused everything he had into his sword, he wanted to create a sort of electric pulse, one so powerful it would destroy what was inside. The man howled, his sword dropping from his hand. When Law was satisfied, he took a few steps back. He heard some explosions and yelling in the distance, but he paid it no mind, his eyes completely focused on the man in front of him.

“You stupid omega! What did you do to me?” He tried to reach out to grab at Law, but he instead collapsed onto the ground coughing up blood. 

“Only what you deserved!” He stepped over him and he raised his blade, he was about to strike when he felt a large vibration and then something happened to make him completely stop. Law felt a raindrop, then another, and another.

No, no, no, no this couldn’t be happening! Crocodile was defeated?! Law had to get to him, he had to help. He would not let the government get their hands on him! This was all his fault! Without any words Law turned in a panic away from Diamante, dissipating his room, and started to run out of the alleyway. 

He didn’t hear the gun fire in his panicked haze, but he certainly felt it when the bullet pierced his leg. He fell to the ground cursing. He needed to switch himself away so he could deal with the bullet wound and right now he was feeling exhausted, way more than he was before.

He tried to activate his room, but it was like he couldn't feel it at all. As the realization dawned on him, so did his dread, he had been shot with a sea stone bullet. He dug his finger into his leg immediately trying to dig it out, but he was interrupted by a familiar face jumping down from where she had been hiding on the rooftops with a sniper rifle.

“Sorry Diamante sir, I know you said not to intervene under any circumstances, but I could just tell you needed me.” Law cursed at the presence of Baby5, he shouldn’t be surprised though, she always had been the best shot.

Law felt the panic course through his veins, he had to escape, he had to get out of here. He felt his fingers grasp the bullet and he tried to force himself to grab it. He was losing a lot of blood and it hurt like hell but if he could just get the bullet out he could fix it. If he could just get the bullet out he could get away.

“Freeze Law!” She pointed the rifle at him. He froze his fingers still in his leg. 

“Lift your hands up brat!” He heard Diamante yell as he slowly got up off the ground. Law didn’t move but he could tell he was admitting a scared scent even though he tried to hide it. Going back to Doflamingo was a thought that terrified him, and it was happening before his eyes.

“What's going on here?” A gruff voice cut through the tension and Law smelled the familiar scent of cigars. “What are Doflamigo’s lackeys doing here? Is that pink bastard involved in this too?!” It was Smoker and Law didn’t know if he was thankful or if his situation had just gotten worse.

“No, nothing of the sort we just came for this wayward omega here that's all. We will just take him and be on our way.” Diamante was smiling so fakely Law wanted to vomit. 

Smoker looked at Law with his fingers still dug into his muscle tissue cornered in between a marine and two pirates. “Unfortunately for you he has to answer for his crimes. I can not allow you to take him.”

“But we-” He interrupted himself as he started to cough up blood. Law just smirked, if he didn’t get medical attention he would die from internal bleeding. He hoped that would be the case. As his attention was on the dying man in front of him, Law didn’t notice Smoker lean down and snap cuffs onto him.

“If I were you, I would get out of here. Unless you would like to fight against the Navy? I would personally love to bring in even more pirate scum today.” The two of them had a stare down but Diamante ultimately backed down.

“Fine, come on Baby5.” He then sent Law a particularly cruel look. “The Young Master will just have to buy him at the auction house.” Smoker stood in between them glaring as they left. Law was practically bathing in angry alpha pheromones.

“What did he mean by that?” Smoker asked, glaring at Law as he hauled him to his feet. He snorted at the question, was this guy for real?

“You're joking right? You saying you have no idea what happens to omegas that piss off the World Government? Do you honestly think they are going to take me to Impel down?” 

It seemed the man had never even considered it and he felt the grip that held him loosen for a moment. “Well, it doesn’t matter because you're a pirate and you deserve what happens to you.” Though it sounded a bit more like he was convincing himself.

“Was he defeated then?” Law asked anxiously though the rain that was continuously falling around them was already an answer.

“Both of you will be brought into the Navy.” He confirmed. Maybe he deserved this, maybe this was his punishment for betraying Crocodile, for ruining everything. If he had just let that alpha die… if he had just sat back and done nothing, then… even now though he couldn’t bring himself to truly regret saving him.

“I have no sympathy for you just because you're an omega.” Law realized he must not be controlling his scent very well still. Though with his mind in shambles he had no idea what scent he was giving off. “You would have left me in that cage to die, I know you would have.” His eyes were studying Law, he could vaguely feel them, but his own eyes were looking up at the rain, unfocused feeling the drops on his face. 

“You're right, I would never lift a finger to help Navy scum like you.” Law bit back though he was starting to feel a little woozy.

He looked at him critically as if he was surprised by his honest answer. “I can’t bring you back by a bunch of alphas smelling like this.” Law didn’t know if he was talking to him or himself. “Guess I have no choice.” He reached out and pinched Law’s neck, as a medical professional he understood what he was doing, and he started to struggle as much as he could. “Calm down, I won't let anything happen to you.” 

Law could feel his vision blackening. “As if I would believe the… word of a… marine.” It didn’t matter what he believed though because soon his world was black.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When Law came back to consciousness he had no idea how much time had passed. As he opened his eyes and took in his surroundings, he realized that he was on a ship of some sort. It didn’t look like a Navy boat though. Had they already just given him to slavers? He noticed he was still in seastone cuffs.

Law flinched slightly as the door opened and he turned to see exactly who his captor was. To his utter shock it was someone he recognized but not someone he thought he would be seeing.

“R-Robin-ya?” He said in utter disbelief trying to wrap his head around the situation. Was he dreaming? This didn’t make any sense.

She just smiled down at him. “Good to see you’re awake. I did my best to stitch up your wounds, but I am no medical professional.”

Law looked down at his leg moving his pants and sure enough there were stitches there. “How am I…?” He truly wasn’t convinced he was here though, his dream theory still a contender. 

“I stole you from the Navy and brought you here, they were rather busy, and that Smoker marine was bad at watching his pockets.” She held up the key to his cuffs, but she didn’t move to uncuff him.

“And where is here exactly?” She smiled a bit guiltily at him.

“I think here is the safest place that we can be right now.” That wasn’t making Law feel any better and the fact that he was still in cuffs was weighing heavier on him.

“Robin-ya, where is here?” He said again trying not to let his uncertainty slip into his voice.

“We are on the Strawhat’s ship.” Her eyes were studying him, but she didn’t have to look too hard, Law was pretty sure he was wearing his emotions very clearly on his face.

“No, no, no absolutely not. Get these cuffs off of me right now I am leaving!” He held his arms out expectantly.

“I don’t think that is a good idea.” She looked away from him.

“Excuse me?” She had to be joking!

“I think right now we are safe, Luffy will get us out of here safely. There are a lot of people out there looking for you right now, not the kind I think you would like to meet.”

“I can take care of myself! Now get these off!” Law bit back.

She just smiled at him. “Hmmm no.”

“What do you mean no?! Robin-ya this isn't funny!”

“Law I am not going to uncuff you and you are going to stay put until we get off this island.” She said firmly.

“So, you think having me handcuffed on a random alphas ship is a good idea.” He pushed, surely, she wasn’t being serious.

She seemed to ponder that for a moment. “I don’t think this alpha will be an issue, if I am wrong, I will take care of it.”

Law just groaned not understanding why she was so hell bent on keeping him captive here. Law could be safe on his own, he was safe on his own. He had beaten Diamante on his own and he probably wouldn’t have gotten shot if Crocodile hadn’t lost. He felt a pang in his heart at the thought. 

It was his fault, it was all his fault. He was sure that wherever Crocodile was now he was blaming Law too, he probably hated him now. He thought back briefly to how his face had looked when he told him to leave. He was sure he would never want to see Law again. He tried to ignore the deep stabbing sensation he felt in his gut at the thought.

Law leaned his back against the wall as his guilty mind replayed the past 24 hours over and over. Maybe being here was what he deserved; life did love to make him suffer after all.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Smoker cursed himself as he sat on his boat getting the report from command. It seemed he was getting promoted though he didn’t do anything to actually help the people of Alabasta. All he did was let some no-good pirates go free. He thought about the Strawhats and their insufferable captain in annoyance; his mind then wandering to the omega from earlier. 

He didn’t know what was going on in that alleyway but once he smelled the stressed omega he couldn’t just run away. What the asshole had said about buying him at the auction house ran through his head, and it hadn’t stopped bugging him since. Maybe that's why he pretended not to see as Nico Robin dragged him away, stealing the key.

It wasn’t like him to let pirates escape, and this Torao guy had definitely been his enemy, hadn’t even tried to deny that he would have let him drown. So why did he let him go? He took a large hit of his cigar wondering when exactly he had gotten so soft.

Chapter Text

It wasn’t hard to tell when the Strawhat's got back to their ship because it was instantly noisy. There was clearly something happening outside, between the cannon fire and all the yelling but the two of them were content to wait it out, not wanting to alert the navy or anyone else to their whereabouts. Law especially was dreading his confrontation with the crew, and possibly one person in particular, so he was content to pretend he was invisible. Once everything seemed to calm down Robin decided it was time to make her entrance, literally dragging a reluctant grumbling Law behind her as he refused to get up and walk out on his leg.

Law truly was mortified for the crew to see him like this, especially after Crocodile’s defeat. Though he supposed it didn’t matter anymore, Law had gone and screwed it all up. 

“Looks like things have finally calmed down, good job.” Robin opened the door, thankfully keeping Law behind her for now.

“Thanks- hey wait a second!” The swordsman turned in alarm.

“THERE IS AN ENEMY ON BOARD!!” The sniper started yelling, running around in panic with some sort of deer.

“How did she get here?” The red head seemed equally surprised.

“WARNING!!! WARNING!!!” The long-nosed man yelled again.

They all stood around pointing their weapons at her, but she easily disarmed them. “It's rather rude to point such dangerous things at someone.” She said simply.

“How long have you been on our ship!?” The redhead demanded.

“Oh… awhile.” Robin was smiling sweetly. She then turned to Luffy. “Monkey D. Luffy, it hasn’t been so long you forgot what you did to me?”

The cook then grabbed his captain by the shoulders and started shaking him. “Luffy what the hell did you do to such a beautiful woman!?”

“Wait a minute, stop lying, I didn't do anything to you!” Luffy called looking back at her in confusion. 

Law could hear the sniper in the background “All stowaways must leave this ship!!!”

“Wrong, you did do something to me, not only that but it was absolutely unbearable.” The others continued to argue and yell while Luffy just looked at her confused. 

“This doesn’t make any sense, just tell me what you want to do?” Luffy complained.

“I want… to join you.” Law was so surprised he almost made a sound, but he caught himself in time. She wanted to join them? What exactly had happened after Law left them on that rooftop? 

“WHATTTT!” Everyone yelled in unison. Clearly they were just surprised as Law.

“Back in Alabasta you saved me, I wanted nothing more than to die at that very moment, but you wouldn’t let me. You forced me to live and that is your crime. There is no place for me to go or return to so I decided that I will join you.” She put it simply.

“Hmmm I see your problem. Guess there is no other choice, welcome!” Law felt his jaw hang open; he accepted her just like that? How was it so easy?

“WHAT THE HELL!” “Luffy!!” “You can't just-!!!” “She is scary!!”

“Don’t worry she isn’t a bad person.” It was then that Luffy started to sniff the air, and his attention turned to the person behind Robin. “Is that Torao? Robin, did you bring Torao with you!?” Luffy bounded over in a dog-like manner to get in Law’s face.

“Fuck off!” He growled back trying to scooch away from the alpha.

“I was hoping you would grant him safe passage to the next island. I sort of stole him from the navy.” She explained like it was no big deal.

Luffy’s eyes got wide. “Of course, Torao is welcome on this ship always!”

Robin let him go and took a few steps away. “Fuck off!!!” Law growled again trying to get away from him.

“Luffy you can't be serious! It's one thing to let this beautiful woman on our ship but Torao is the enemy.” The blonde was glaring at him as he sat leaning against the wooden wall while Luffy kept getting in his personal space. He hated how good the alpha smelled right now being this close to him.

“Shishishi don’t worry Torao is fine, he saved my life!” Luffy just laughed them off.

“Stop calling me that, and I should have let you die!” He bit out showing his fangs.

“Shishi you don’t mean that.” He seemed completely unphased by his hostility.

“Be that as it may, we can't just trust these people!!” Nami protested glaring at both of them. Robin then pulled out some jewels from her pocket and handed them to the redhead.

“I stole them from Crocodile.” She explained simply.

The effect was instantaneous. “Oh, wow you might be my favorite! Welcome to the crew!” Robin then made herself comfortable sitting in a chair with all the confidence in the world as the navigator started to count her treasure.

“Wait a minute I have some questions like uhh what is your name!? Mine is uhh Usopp by the way.” Law thought he was far too polite for an interrogator.

“Nico Robin.” She answered truthfully. 

“So uhhh what's your occupation?” What a strange question.

“Archaeologist.”

“Wait are you serious?” He seemed genuinely surprised.

“Archaeology runs in my blood, I come from a long line of archaeologists actually.” Law thought briefly about her home country, he remembered them being known for their knowledge of history. That was what did them in after all. “Its was when I was eight years old that I-”

“Hi Torao!” Luffy said interrupting Law’s ability to hear the conversation.

“Strawhat-ya.” He acknowledged. Law was currently trying to breath through his mouth, he didn’t like how the other's scent was starting to have a calming ability on him. Naturally he had to fight against that false calm with everything he had.

“Are you going to come on adventures with me like you promised?” His face was way too close to his own.

Law looked at him incredulously. “I never said anything of the sort.”

“Yeah, you did when, Crocodile stabbed me and then you saved me with your powers.” He explained simply. Law remembered that conversation, but he was very sure he had not agreed to anything.

His face was even closer so Law reached out as best he could with his cuffed hands and pushed him away. “I am not going on adventures with you!”

“But you promiseddd!” He whined, not deterred in the slightest.

“I did not!”

-“So, you used Crocodile in your list of rogues?” He heard Usopp’s voice cut through Luffy’s whining.

“I did, I used him to get to the poneglyph but I am afraid that is what led me to bring Law with me as well. I guess after our time together I couldn’t stand to see him carted off to the world government.” All eyes turned to where Law and Luffy were. Law bared his fangs again while Luffy just laughed.

“And if you join our crew what would your specialty be?” Usopp was still ‘interrogating’ her.

“Killing.” She said with a straight face causing the other to knock his chair over in fear. 

“Luffy!!! My investigation has concluded, and they are both too dangerous to have on board!!”

“Here please have something to eat, you beautiful angle.” The blonde put food down in front of her and she smiled up at him warmly. “I am honored to have such a lovely lady like yourself on board!”

“Well, we knew he was going to be a lost cause.” Usopp whisper-yelled to the swordsman.

“Look at him falling all over himself.” He could smell the alpha getting annoyed, but Law was too busy pushing Luffy away to focus much on anything else. Law’s prayers were soon answered as Robin made some of her limbs appear and Luffy and the reindeer got distracted.

“We can’t blame them for being weak, we just have to be strong!”

“Hey Usopp look!” Luffy was gesturing to where Robin's arms were appearing from his head. “Chopper!” Was all he said and the three of them were rolling on the ground laughing.

The green haired alpha growled in annoyance before going to a different part of the ship, clearly not wanting to look at the members of his crew. Probably annoyed by how easily they were won over. He saw Robin trailing after him and he was starting to feel anxious being left ‘alone’ with these pirates.

Usopp looked at him uneasily. “Uhh Luffy, Robin may be okay, sort of, but what are we going to do about him?” Law smirked sensing that the man was afraid of him. Since Law was basically useless in sea stone cuffs so it was a nice small boost to his ego.

“I told you Torao is fine, he is going to come with us on adventures!” Luffy explained.

“I am not! I want out of these cuffs, off this ship, and away from you as soon as possible!” He bit out struggling to get his cuffs off.

“Shishi, well why didn’t you say so, I can get the cuffs off!” 

Law froze and looked at him in confusion. “You … what?” It didn’t make sense, if Luffy wanted to keep him here the only way it was going to happen was if Law was his captive, and here he was just offering to undo his chains? What alpha would just release a captive omega like that? It didn’t make sense.

“Uhhh Luffy I don’t think that's a good idea! He is still the enemy!” Usopp tried his best to reason.

“Captain, I agree with Usopp. I don't think taking those off is a good idea.” The blonde chimed in.

“But Sanji, Torao isn’t going to hurt us, he saved me.” He was acting like they were being ridiculous in their worries.

The beta got close and looked in Law’s eyes. “Are you going to attack us if we let you out?”

“Yes.” Law said without emotion causing Luffy to laugh and the other to fall back in horror as if Law was currently attacking him.

“SEE!!!” He pointed to him looking desperately at his captain.

Luffy waved them off easily. “Shishi Torao is just kidding.”

“I wasn’t kidding.” Law growled as Luffy put his arm around him.

“Luffy please don’t take his handcuffs off! I don’t think being trapped on a boat with someone who wants to murder us isn’t the best idea.” Usopp was shaking looking at him.

Luffy seemed like he was getting annoyed at having to repeat himself. “Torao isn’t going to I already said.”

“You don’t think he is mad at us for beating up his boss?” The blonde was smoking a cigarette looking at him judgmentally. 

Luffy seemed like he hadn’t considered that angle before. “Torao, are you mad?” He still had his arm around him, and he was looking at him with such big eyes. It made Law’s stomach do some sort of flip and he knew in that moment that this alpha was dangerous.

“Yes.” He bit back doing his best to glare at him.

Luffy just pouted. “Well… I am sorry! There, now it's all better!”

Law just opened his mouth in disbelief. “That doesn’t make it better at all!”

Luffy just tilted his head. “Huh? but Makino said that an apology fixes things when people are mad, and I apologized so you can't be mad anymore! That's how it works Torao!”

“That isn’t how it works!” Law defended, this alpha was crazy.

“Is too!”

“No it isn’t!”

“Is too!”

“Do you think maybe we should actually be worried for Torao?” Usopp whispered to Sanji while the blonde just shook his head.

“Why are you even loyal to that creep?” The red head cut in looking at Law judgmentally.

“None of your business.” Law snapped back. Like hell he was going to tell these people anything.

“Sanji thinks he is like your dad.” Luffy chimed in and Law just felt the knife in his gut twist even more.

“Yeah well, he isn’t! And besides I doubt he ever really felt that way, especially now.”

“You mean because you helped me?”

“Stop saying that! I regretted doing it the minute after! I should have let you get buried in the sand!” He growled, baring his fangs again. Luffy’s scent never even fluctuated, he just kept smelling all happy looking at him like seeing Law was the best prize he could have. 

“But you didn’t.” he was just smiling widely.

“I hate you.” He growled back.

“Shishi okay Torao.” He stood up, giving him some space and Law was thankful to not be surrounded by his confusing smell. “Torao stays.”

“Can we please just keep him in the cuffs?” Usopp looked like he was practically crying at this point.

“What do you all think I am so weak I can't beat up tall dark and scary?” Zoro chimed in looking at Law with a smirk causing him to send one right back.

“You can’t, but it's cute to see you have so much confidence.” Law snapped back at him.

Zoro eyes went to his sword. “You know how to use it?”

Law just scoffed, what a stupid question. “Why don’t you find out.”

“See Zoro is getting along with him!” Luffy said happily looking between his first mate and Law.

“Uhhh Luffy this is bad, why are you smiling!?” The sniper was clearly not having a good day.

“Shishi I am just happy! Come on Torao, I have to show you the ship!” He went to pull Law up on his feet to follow him, but Law couldn’t put too much weight on his leg, the bullet had gone in pretty deep. Law winced and then noticed the change in Luffy’s scent right away. “Torao are you okay?”

“Fine.” He bit out trying to stand on his own.

“He got shot in the leg.” Robin was ratting him out with an amused smile on her face. “I fixed it up the best I could, but he could use someone more qualified to look at it.”

“It’s fine.” He grumbled

“Torao, you got hurt!!?? Chopper, you have to fix him right now!!” To Law’s surprise the small deer came forward.

“Uh h-hi can I look at your wound?” He seemed really nervous talking to him and Law wanted to snap at him but for some reason when he looked at his face, he found himself unable to.

“If you just take the cuffs off, I can fix it myself.” Law looked away from the cute small animal.

“Okay.” Luffy said without a care.

“No way!” Usopp interrupted with his arms across his chest in an X.

“Not going to happen!” Nami chimed in as well and Law had no problem glaring at either of them.

“Shishi you guys are weird. Don’t worry though Torao, Chopper is the best!” He suddenly picked Law up, holding him in his arms and started to bring him inside. “Come on Chopper, you have to make sure Torao is okay!”

“Put me down!!” Law yelled thrashing.

“But you can’t walk, stop being so silly.” It sounded like he was talking to a child, and it only made him more flustered.

“That doesn’t mean- you can’t just-don’t treat me like-!” Law protests were cut short as they went into the ship and into a very makeshift infirmary. Luffy set him down on a crate and Law could feel his cheeks burning in embarrassment at the treatment. He had NEVER had someone treat him like that before. At least not someone currently living.

He was about to snap at him again when the small deer came up to him. “Uh can I look at the wound please?” His words died in his throat. 

“Fine but he has to leave.” Law did his best to glare at Luffy through his flushed face and disheveled appearance. 

“But Torao-”

“No.”

“But-”

“Luffy medical care is a private thing, I uhhh am going to have to ask you to leave too.” Law was shocked that the deer was standing up for him.

Luffy didn’t seem to like it but the look on his face let Law know that he had accepted Chopper's words. “Okay fine, I will see you later Torao! Then I can show you around the Merry!” To his surprise he actually left them alone together. Once Law was sure the alpha wasn’t coming back, he let out a sigh of relief.

“Can I uhhh?” The deer was gesturing to his leg. Law pulled his pants down exposing his upper thigh. The little deer got right to work and started to disinfect the wound and reapply the stitches. “So uhh Vivi said that you are a doctor?”

His voice sounded so scared and hesitant Law couldn’t help but respond. “Uh more of a surgeon really.”

“I-is it true that you uhhh healed a lot of people in Alabasta and preformed um what some people called miracles?” He could still hear his nervousness, but his eyes were sparkling up at Law.

“I mean it wasn’t miracles, it was just medicine, and the utilization of my fruit based on practical medical knowledge and procedure.” Law tried to make it sound boring but the other didn’t seem to think so.

“That's so cool, so you really are a great doctor then!”

“I uh-” Law didn’t really know what to say to that, he had never really thought about himself like that. His parents were great doctors, they were people who should be celebrated not Law. 

“Can you look over this research paper I found? I think I caught some mistakes, but I really don’t know if I am confident enough to say for sure and I get that you probably don’t want to and that its probably annoying and-”

Law held out his hand. “Just give me the papers.”

It seemed he had said the right words because the cute creature lit up happily and brought over some research notes. He then finished up treating the wound. “I got these from Alabasta, it was written by some doctor a long time ago.”

Law could tell from looking at it there were going to be flaws just by some of the terms used. “Well, I can already tell this is sexist garbage.” He grumbled.

“That's what I thought too!” Law pulled up his pants and the animal crawled next to him on the crate. For the next hour the two of them sat there looking over the different notes pointing out the issues and malpractices they detected. It was new for Law to be around someone he could have an intellectual medical conversation with, and he couldn't say he hated it.

Chapter Text

The door to the medical room swung open and Zoro came in with swords drawn, a scared Usopp cowering behind him with his slingshot. He was ready to attack but stopped immediately taking in the scene before them.

Chopper was sitting on Law's good leg, and they were both looking intently at a paper in his hand. Similar ones littered the floor around them. Zoro noticed that they were full of red lines. Had they been in here editing things?

The captive, or whatever he was, looked over at them unamused but Chopper greeted them as happily as ever. “Uh hey guys!”

“Chopper, what are you doing? Are you okay!? You have been in here with the enemy for so long we thought he had -well you know!” He made a line across his neck and Zoro could smell that the accused murderer was getting annoyed.

“Torao and I were just looking at medical stuff! Torao is a doctor too, you know? He is helping me with some research notes.” Zoro tilted his head in confusion, but it seemed from Chopper's body language and position that he had nothing to fear from the man.

Torao isn’t going to hurt us, he saved me

The swordsman played those words over again in his head. Maybe his captain was right, he always did have a weird sense for these things. Besides he had barely been here for a few hours, and he already was basically letting Chopper sit on his lap. While he was sure the man before him was strong, and truthfully he was itching to fight him, he wasn’t sensing that they were in any danger from him. Sure, he seemed grumpy, and he couldn't blame him after everything that happened, and also dealing with Luffy, but he wasn’t sensing any actual murderous intent from him.

“Are you sure you're safe? Blink three times if you need assistance.” Usopp tried again.

“Oh please, what do you think I am going to do in these?” The man lifted up his cuffs unamused.

“Your fingers say death! I don’t know what you're capable of!” He defended.

Zoro could smell the man's scent sour even more.

“Is Torao done with private medical stuff?” He heard Luffy call from the hallway. Zoro had forgotten he had reluctantly followed behind them. He had said Chopper kicked him out because medicine was private and had been moping around on the deck while Usopp panicked about Chopper being alone with their prisoner. Zoro wasn’t truly worried, but he could only listen to Usopp and Luffy for so long before they got under his skin and agreed to check up on the little doctor. Luffy, it seemed, was still taking Chopper’s words very seriously and was loitering down the hall away from the exam room.

“Yes.” “No!” Chopper and Law answered in unison.

This seemed to be all Luffy needed to hear before he was bounding past them and picking up Law again. He heard the man yelling at him all the way down the hall, but it seemed Luffy was intent on giving him the tour. He just shook his head in amusement at his captain's antics.

Later that night he found Law had finally escaped Luffy’s constant company and had secluded himself by the back of the ship. Zoro studied him for a moment before making his way to sit beside him. They were both quiet before he broke the silence.

“Did you really save his life?” He didn’t know what he expected the man to say, and it wasn’t like it mattered anyway. If Luffy said it happened then it happened that was it, but a part of him wanted to hear it from this stranger.

“Unfortunately.” He did sound regretful but also kind of fond. He supposed he could work with that.

Zoro held out the bottle of sake he had been drinking. “Want some?”

He hesitated but eventually his hands came up and grabbed the glass bottle taking a sip before handing it back. He didn’t say thanks, but Zoro didn’t expect him to. “So, your sword is cursed.” It was more of an observation than anything.

“So is yours.” He remarked though his tone was a bit warmer than before. 

“You any good with it?”

Golden eyes snapped up to him. “Why? Don’t think an omega can use a sword?”

Zoro smiled for a moment, an old memory flashing briefly in his mind. He kind of reminded him of her. “Yeah, I don’t really care about that but if you're good I want to fight you.”

“And why is that then?” He still seemed very cautious.

“Because I am going to be the greatest swordsman in the world.” He could tell the other was studying his face looking for something. Whatever he found must have been good because he actually laughed slightly.

“Well then who am I to refuse.” 

The two of them spent the next hour sitting silently next to each other Zoro occasionally passing over his bottle, but he found himself thinking that he didn’t really mind the man all that much. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When it was time to sleep, Law simply leaned against one of the walls of the ship, trying to wedge himself into a corner. It wasn’t like he was going to actually get any sleep on this boat, but he could at least try.

“Torao, come to bed!” Law scrunched up his face at the notion.

“I am fine here thanks.” He tried his best to dismiss him. 

“But Torao it gets cold! Don’t you want to cuddle?”

“No.” He answered without hesitation. The last thing he needed was to fall asleep by some alpha, and God forbid he had a nightmare.

“But Toraoooo!” He whined.

“You have to go with him, we can't have you out here unsupervised.” The red head called looking at him suspiciously.

“What do you think I am going to do in these?” He protested further. “I am NOT sleeping in a room full of alphas!”

“Hey, don’t lump me in with them!” The blonde called.

“Torao you will be safe, don't worry.” Luffy tried to assure him.

“Fuck off and let me sleep here!” He tried to put himself further into the corner. 

“Not happening!” Nami put her hands on her hips looking at him challengingly. “Luffy.” That was all she had to say before the other was stretching his arms out and picking up Law once again. He was much taller than the other, so he just knew he looked ridiculous.

“Come on Torao, you can even have the hammock!” 

“I don’t want the damn hammock!” But his protests were ignored as Luffy took him inside and placed him in the hammock anyway. 

“It's okay Torao, see it’s comfy!”

“That isn’t the issue.” There was no way he was going to be able to sleep in a room full of Alphas or even other people. He hadn’t done that since he was a kid and even back then he hadn’t fully presented yet so the smell and pheromones were not nearly as bad. There was absolutely no way he was going to get any sleep tonight. 

“It's okay Torao just go to sleep.” Luffy said it like it was so simple and started to rock the hammock back and forth. 

“I am not a child!” Law protested though for some reason he was feeling calmer, well until he realized what the other was doing. “Don’t you dare get your scent all over me!”

“But Torao it’s supposed to help you calm down.”

“You do not have permission to fuck with my brain chemistry like that!” He growled, not denying that it was in fact working.

Luffy just tilted his head clearly not understanding what he did wrong. “Sorry Torao.” He felt him pull it back but unfortunately it was impossible not to still smell him. 

When the others came in, they fell asleep surprisingly fast in the presence of an enemy. Even the really nervous one was passed out after saying he was going to stay up and watch him all night.

There was so much snoring and so many scents in the air Law just laid there staring up at the ceiling. “Torao are you asleep?”

“Yes.” He answered sarcastically.

“Oh okay.”

Law rolled his eyes. “No Strawhat-ya.”

“Do you want me to try again to make you calm?” He asked in a hopeful voice. 

It kind of surprised him. “What are you actually asking this time?”

“I didn’t realize it was something you had to ask about before.” He could see him leaning over the hammock now.

“Well, it doesn’t work on me, alpha smells just make me more anxious.”

Luffy looked confused at him. “But you said mine was making you calm and was messing with your brain or something?”

“Shut up.” Law was glad the other couldn’t see him blushing in the dark. Luffy’s scent did make him calm, no one else had ever had an effect like that on him. That thought however, was something he had been pushing to the back of his mind and trying not to think about.

“It’s okay, Torao’s scent makes me feel funny too.” Luffy admitted.

Law rolled his eyes though. “That's just because I am an omega Strawhat-ya.”

“Hmmm no, I don't think so cause I don't like the smell of anyone else like I do you. Not other omegas or betas or anyone! You smell even better than meat! Or maybe just as good? Hmmm I can’t decide.” He seemed like he was really thinking about it.

Law actually found himself smiling a bit at the simplicity of it. “What, are you going to eat me?”

“If you let me.” He said seriously without hesitation.

Law’s eyes got really big, and he felt his breath hitch in his throat. This alpha was always catching him off guard. Before he could say anything, he felt the hammock shift and another body wedging itself next to him. It seemed Luffy was making himself extremely comfortable. At first Law tensed at the touch but he couldn’t deny that there was a certain comfort in it. 

“I am glad you're here Torao.” He heard the other mumble sleepily into his arm. “Night.”

His instinct was to yell and to push him off but for some reason looking down at him he just couldn’t bring himself to do it. Maybe he could afford to give in just this once , it was dark, and no one could see. He probably wouldn’t even sleep anyway so he would be up early enough to extract himself from this position before anyone would notice.

Surprisingly Law found himself relaxing into the touch and closing his eyes. It’s not like he would sleep anyway he would just relax for a minute. There was no way his body would relax enough to sleep, absolutely no way…

“Well, I have to admit he doesn’t look too scary like that” Was the first thing Law heard as he regained consciousness, his eyes blinking. Zoro and Usopp were standing over the hammock looking down at them. Law was vaguely aware that sometime during the night Luffy had managed to completely wrap his arms around him a few times. “I mean with the heart hat and them all cuddled up like that it's almost kind of-”

“Finish that sentence and you die!” Law threatened.

“Ahhhh!” The sniper shrieked. “I take it back, still scary!!!” He then ran quickly out of the room. Law wasted no time trying to extract himself, but it seemed to be an impossible task. The swordsman just continued to stand there watching with an amused look on his face. Eventually Law snapped.

“Are you having fun there?”

“Haha yeah but I guess I will take pity on you.” Law’s glare intensified. “There is always one sure way to wake Luffy up.” The swordsman leaned away from the hammock. “Hey I think I smell food.”

The effect was instantaneous, Luffy shot up immediately in the hammock causing it to tip and for them both to fall onto the ground. “Meat!!!” He immediately released Law jumping up. As if on auto pilot he ran immediately out of the room.

Law’s mind was briefly remembered last night when he said he liked his smell as much as he liked meat. He had thought it was kind of cute then but if that's how much he liked meat then maybe he should be worried. He stood up doing his best to fix his clothes and hat. It didn’t matter anyway because Law was going to get off this boat on the next island and figure out just what the hell he was going to do. He gave Zoro a nod then left. 

God, he had gotten so sweaty last night from sleeping close to someone, his shirt was practically sticking to him. He was still feeling warm even now that he was released. He quietly cursed Luffy under his breath as he made his way to the deck. He couldn’t believe he actually slept last night, he hated to admit it, but he slept well. It was probably just exhaustion or his body healing from his wound or something. It had nothing to do with Luffy, he looked over to where the other was shoving copious amounts of food into his mouth. Yeah, it was definitely not Luffy. 

As the sun continued to rise, Law cursed silently at how hot it was. It was offering him little reprieve from last night, finding it impossible to cool off. He felt slightly relieved when he saw the island come into view. 

Law lifted his hands up as they were docking. “Okay I played the good prisoner, now uncuff me and let me off this ship.”

“Uhhhhh are you sure you want to ummm?” Usopp was nervously looking at him.

“What he means to say is well,” Nami began looking at Law. “Do you think it's best to go into town when you're like that ?” 

Law tilted his head in confusion, what were these idiots talking about? Was this just some ruse to keep him in cuffs? “Like what exactly?” He growled.

“Oh come on don’t make me say it.” She was looking a bit flushed.

Robin came over and put a hand on his shoulder. “You're going into heat.”

Law’s eyes got wide, and he started focusing internally on himself. “It can't be, I am not supposed to for a few more weeks…” He had always been a little irregular, but this was not normal. Could it have been caused from all the stress? Or maybe from being so close to an alpha? “Fuck.” He cursed and the red head actually did look at him with sympathy. 

“Take these off, I don’t have time to deal with it.” He held his cuffs up.

“Meaning what exactly?” Robin asked, looking at him unamused.

“Meaning take these damn cuffs off me because I am not doing that on this ship.”

“And you think going into a pirate town in heat would be better?” Robin challenged him.

Law rolled his eyes, did she think he was an idiot? “Obviously not, and not that it's anyone's business but with my fruit I can just stop my heat.”

She was clearly still not amused with him. “That is a dumb idea even for you.”

“Oh screw off Robin!” He had had enough of her telling him what to do.

“HEY!” Sanji butt in. “don’t talk to a lady like that! I don’t care if you are emotional right now because of your-”

“Finish that sentence and you die!” He said leaning up into the omega’s face. It seemed like the fight might escalate before Law felt a pull on his sleeve and he looked down.

“If you operate on your body like that wont it hurt you in the long run? There are lots of negative effects for suppressants and it can really hurt your body long term. I have been reading about it recently and…” Chopper looked at him with big eyes. “I don’t want you to hurt yourself.”

Fuck, Law was absolutely so fucked. He had let this cute animal into his heart, and it was going to be his downfall. He briefly thought of Tang and just hoped that she was alright wherever she was.

“Torao, you can’t hurt yourself!” Luffy was bounding over now that he was done shoving his face. 

“It’s fine.” He deflected.

Luffy just wrinkled up his nose. “Nope, just stay here, we have a room you can use.” He said easily.

He supposed that made sense being that there were two omegas on his crew but still. “Oh yeah I am sure you have no ulterior motives for wanting me to be here for that !” He was baring his fangs at him now.

Luffy just frowned tilting his head. “I won’t go by you unless you want me to, I know all about heats and how much they suck. Unless you ask me to, I would never do anything! I promise!”

He seemed really serious about it too and Law wondered just where he had learned that from. Law couldn’t deny he was starting to feel really warm now. It had been a long time since he actually allowed himself a real heat, normally operating on himself when it got too much.

“Come on, let me show you the room.” Chopper grabbed his hand and started dragging him away. He wanted to fight against it, but he had to admit maybe waiting it out here wasn’t the worst idea.

The room itself wasn’t too big, it was clearly a large storage closet they had converted but the entire ground was some sort of circular mattress, there were lots of pillows, some fluffy, some soft, and a few blankets strewn about. 

“Look Chopper. I appreciate it but I just don’t know if this is a good idea.” Law didn’t know if it was a bad one either though. The crew had proven not to be aggressive or even sexist towards him, besides that there were two other omegas on the crew…

“But you could hurt yourself.” The deer protested.

Law just sighed. “Look my body is already pretty messed up so in truth I doubt this is going to do much to make it worse.”

“But-but if your body is already messed up then you should really not do it! You are at even higher risk for something to go wrong than a normal person.” He was looking at him like he was actually worried and it gave Law pause. Was this mink really worried about his health? Why would he care about Law? “Please! I don’t want you to hurt yourself.” He could tell he was doing his best to look at him firmly now.

Law let out a long sigh flopping onto the pillows. “Fine.”

“Thank you.” He bowed his head like Law was doing him a favor. What a strange mink, though Bepo was kind of like that too he remembered. “I will be back with water bottles!” With that the little deer ran off and Law sat there wondering just what he agreed to.

Chapter Text

Well, that adventure was kind of boring, Luffy thought to himself, he ate some really gross pie and had to deal with some jerks but in a weird way he wasn’t upset. He got to be just like Shanks and that was kind of cool. Not to mention Torao was now staying on their ship for even longer, though he wouldn't be able to hang out with him for the next few days. He had learned that lesson the hard way with Ace. 

Luffy had been a kid and just wanted his brother to come out and play, he had been playing by himself for two days after all and it was boring. He shuttered thinking about how angry Ace was and how hard he kicked his ass, never again. He must have lectured him about how much of an idiot he was for hours. He now understood how private and important those times were. Instead, he would vow to protect his Torao, he wouldn’t let anyone else even close to him. 

When he got back onto the boat that's when he really noticed it, Torao’s scent was really, really strong. It was all he could smell anywhere, it was like honey and spices and home, it made Luffy’s mouth water. It was hard to think of meat when it was all he could smell.

They were currently sailing their boat around the island to talk to someone who might know more about the sky islands. Luffy was excited, an island in the sky sounded like a really, really fun time, he hoped Torao would feel better soon so he could see it too.

He found himself inching towards the door to go inside, he was not going to bother Torao, but he could sit outside and smell him maybe? He went to open the door, and he felt the hands grab him on the back and lift him away. When he turned and saw it was Zoro he didn’t know why but he felt anger bubble up inside of him. He felt a growl start in his throat and then it got louder and angrier. Suddenly a bucket of water was being dumped on them.

“Cool it you two!” It was Nami. “Both of you are getting off this boat and going to talk to whoever is in that weird house! Get some fresh air and get out of here!” Luffy didn’t want to go, he wanted to stay and smell that smell forever but he knew Nami was probably right. It was best for him to go away for now, not too far though, just in case Torao needed something.

It wasn’t until later that he actually saw Torao, well, he smelled him before he saw him. They were just getting back to the old man’s house when he burst out of the door and onto the deck.

“Look, I don't care about my heath! GET these cuffs off of me now! I cannot deal with this shit anymore!” Luffy couldn't look away from him. His hat was gone, and his hair was sticking up all over the place, he had a white tank top on that did little to hide the tattoo’s underneath with all the sweat. His heart long sleeved shirt was tied around his middle covering up the front of him. Luffy was speechless; it was the most amazing thing he had ever seen.

“Law go back in the room.” Robin called over, some hands appearing from the ground trying to guide him.

“Get these freaking things off!!” He was struggling as much as he could against her, and he could tell she was trying to be gentile, but she wasn’t making any progress. 

It was then that they pulled around to the side of the man’s house and saw it. Everything was trashed, his gold was gone and there was some weird mark spray painted on his house. Luffy was momentarily distracted from his beautiful Torao when he felt rage bubble inside him. He was about to yell about how he was going to kick Bellamy's ass when he looked back at Torao.

His scent was still inviting but he could smell a sour undertone to it, he had stopped struggling and was standing there motionless staring at the graffiti. Did he know Bellamy or something? Why was that symbol making his Torao scared?

Luffy could tell there was an instant change in his demeanor. “Fine, whatever.” He muttered in defeat, before turning and going back into the ship on his own. That was very strange… Oh well he could focus on Torao later, right now he had some jerks to beat up!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Before~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Law was going crazy in this room, he was feeling hot as hell, he had taken off his pants and shirt (Robin had helped him with the cuffs) but left the rest on not wanting to be too exposed. He hadn't had a real heat in years, and it was hitting him hard. He put his hand over his stomach as another wave of cramps hit him. He hated this, he hated it so much. Not to mention Law had discovered a rogue shirt that belonged to the green haired alpha someone stored under the big pillow and the smell was making him agitated. What was making it even worse was how he wanted it to be Luffy’s.

Law had always gone through his version of his heats alone, he would NEVER have dared to let an alpha near him, and he had never craved one, well, never one specifically anyway. In his heats he always craved something , but that was just biology. It was never like this, his body was craving him , it was like something was driving Law to seek him out. It was then that he smelled it, Luffy was back on the ship. He took a deep breath instinctually trying to focus on the smell. It was getting closer and closer… Law frowned, he couldn't smell it anymore. He wondered what happened. 

Coming back to his senses he realized he had been leaning up against the door trying to smell just a bit of the alpha. He quickly pushed himself back. This was bad, this is exactly why Law didn’t want to stay here. Whatever this weird thing between them was, it was dangerous for Law. he didn’t know if he could handle something like that, even thinking about it now was making his stomach sink. But he had never craved anyone like this before, Law had been around countless alphas in his time, most of whom he bested in battle, or he watched Crocodile do the same. Never in that entire time had he even felt a fraction of what he was feeling now and that… scared him.

In fact, it really scared him and being alone in this room it wasn’t too hard for him to spiral. He started to breathe a little faster and the room started to feel smaller. He could not be having feelings for this stupid alpha! What would Crocodile say? If he didn’t already hate him, he would for sure after this. Falling for the alpha that destroyed everything he worked for; he would just be twisting the knife that was already in his stomach. He laid there for a while wrestling around with these thoughts before he came to one conclusion: he couldn’t do this. He had to get out of here before it was too late!

Law stood up with newfound determination, he had to leave right now. He could not afford to stay here and get attached to his scent while he was in some hormone induced haze. He reached down to get his shirt and upon looking at himself decided it might be better to tie it off in the front. Either way he was going to get out of here and he would find somewhere private on this island, and he would get rid of the rest of his hormones and ride out the remainder of his heat. He grabbed his hat, shoving it in his pocket and stomped further through the halls ignoring how the little voice inside of him was getting excited as they were getting closer to the alpha’s scent. That was exactly why he needed to leave.

He shoved the door open without care stepping out into the cooler night. He hadn’t realized how much time had already passed. “Look, I don't care about my health! GET these cuffs off of me now! I cannot deal with this shit anymore!” He tried his best to be firm, but he was still panting a bit. It didn’t help that Luffy was standing there frozen just staring at him with his mouth open.

“Law, go back in the room.” Robin called over, some hands appearing from the ground trying to grab at him and push him back. He was so sick of her telling him what to do! 

“Get these freaking things off!!” He started to struggle against her even more. She took a couple steps closer, and he looked up to snap at her, but it was then he saw something that made him freeze. It was such a stupid thing to get scared of, but he wasn’t expecting it. He stood there motionless gazing up at his symbol. Law felt a sliver of fear pierce his heart at the sight.

Was Doflamingo still around here? He had seen him in Alabasta about a week ago and his lackeys had been there just a few days ago so it wasn’t outrageous to think that he could be around. He knew the man was looking for him. If Law went out there like this while Doflamingo was lurking about, he might as well have signed his own death warrant. Besides that, if the man did catch him in heat… well he didn’t want to think about that.

He turned around in defeat, accepting his situation. “Fine, whatever.” He would have to take his chances here then. He slammed the door and marched back down the hall. Instead of going right back to the closet though, he took a quick detour into the boy's room and quickly grabbed one of Luffy’s shirts before returning to the room in shame. If he was going to stay here, he might as well smell something nice instead of the sharp steal scent of Zoro. That was the only reason, and besides no one ever had to know. He shut the door firmly behind him, and settled back in. Weirdly he found that the cramps weren’t as bad now. He held the shirt close, picturing the look on Luffy’s face as Law walked out on deck. In the back of his mind he realized how bad this was, but he couldn’t bring himself to care at the moment, not as he smashed his face into the shirt and took a deep breath. 

Yup he was going to take this to his grave.

Law had somehow managed to fall asleep in all of this, his body finally getting over its first peak. He was even slightly comfortable, that is until he was thrown unceremoniously into the air and then against the closet wall. His equilibrium must have been all messed up because it felt like the ship was flying through the air. For his mental health he needed to believe that was not actually the case.

When he finally was thrown back onto the ground and it seemed they had either died or the ship had steadied out. He stood up huffing as he made his way angrily to the deck. He threw the door open. “What the hell was…” His sentence trailed off as he took in the scene around him. There were clouds everywhere, in fact it looked like they were sailing on the clouds themselves, but that couldn't be right. He knew Luffy was talking about looking for a sky island but, that was impossible, this couldn't be…

“Torao, isn’t it cool!” Luffy bounded up to him ignoring Usopp who was currently gasping on the deck looking like he had just escaped certain death. 

“What… where are we?” Law was still looking around in awe; he didn't realize how close Luffy had gotten to him until his scent permeated his consciousness. Alpha! Law had subconsciously started to lean closer to him before he snapped out of it. He was in charge here, not his hormones!

“Shishi it's a sky island Torao! We are going to explore! Do you want to come?” Luffy looked at him all excited before he seemed to remember. “Oh wait you can’t.” He was pouting momentarily before his smile returned. “But maybe later you could come to dinner, but just if you're feeling better, okay?” He smiled so sweetly at him. Coming up here was a mistake Law needed to go back to the safety of his small room. 

“Uhh maybe.” He squeaked out trying to make his escape back to the room.

“Hey shitty stowaway.” The blonde called over to him before he could disappear. Law looked at him questioningly readying himself for a conflict but to his surprise the cook held out a small bag. “There is a variety of food in there, lots of protein and vitamins.”

Law looked at the bag and then back to the cook in confusion. The blonde just rolled his eyes. “You need to eat dumbass. You haven’t eaten barely anything since you got on this ship.” He shook the bag at him and Law slowly reached out for it. He was really confused, why was this person doing this for him? He had shown nothing but contempt for him so far. Had he poisoned it? Law grabbed the bag and looked in it hesitantly, without his fruit there would be no way to know for sure. “I didn’t poison it, it's just food.” Law must have been really easy to read.

“Sure.” He said unbelievingly. He tried to hand it back to him. “I-uh am not hungry.” His stomach unfortunately chose that moment to protest, the food smelled really good, but he couldn’t take the chance.

“Oh for crying out loud.” He reached into the bag and ripped off a piece of something, throwing it in his own mouth. “See not poisoned, now just eat the damn food!”

Law felt his face flush, but he was sure it was just from his heat and not from this person who for some reason cared if he ate or not. He turned around and quickly continued his journey back to the room bag in hand. When he got back, he couldn’t help but to eat what he was given. At first, he was just going to eat what the cook had taken a bite of because obviously that was safe to eat but once he tasted the food, he found himself unable to stop eating. He supposed if he was going to die at least he had a wonderful last meal.

When his cramps returned, he wondered briefly if it was the poison taking effect but soon it was clear that wasn’t what was happening. He didn’t understand why the cook was so insistent on him eating if it wasn't poisoned? What a strange man.

Things were getting more intense for him when he felt the boat start to shake. He knew most of the others had left so he summarized when he felt the second shake that something was wrong. He grabbed Kikoku and quickly went to the deck. He opened the door and saw Chopper curled up in the corner, he was clearly beaten up. A man riding on some weird bird was taunting him. Law was going to kill him. His face immediately turned to Law as he opened the door. 

“Oh another one? You must be where that smell is coming from, you would make a great sacrifice to my god.” He jumped off the bird moving quickly towards Law with his spear. 

Law’s movements were a bit sluggish considering his seastone and his heat, but he managed to bring Kikoku up to block the spear. He was thankful that his sword was longer, and he was able to keep the flames away from his face.

“Ohh think you can beat me? Think you can win without sacrificing something?” Law was getting really annoyed at this asshole and just wanted to go lay down. He took a deep breath centering himself and thought back to his lessons with Daz, he could do this.

He parried his spear away swiping down at him, but he was fast and moved to get out of the way. It was okay, he was fast, but Law had fought faster, they always had a tell…. There! Law parried another strike from the spear, quickly sliding his sword down the shaft and managing to cut the other’s arm.

“Insolent! You have to be a sacrifice for god!” 

Law just smirked. “God? Don’t make me laugh.” He lunged first this time but the other managed to dodge moving back. Law was about to jump after him again when it hit. He felt like his insides were about to claw their way out of him. He faulted just for a moment, his enemy seizing the advantage. Law tried to will his body to move but he wasn’t fast enough. Just as the spear was about to pierce him some old man flew in on a bird and diverted it away from him. Law didn’t waste the opportunity reaching out and managing to run his sword through the man’s stomach.

He fell back grasping his wound looking between him and the new arrival. He smartly retreated to his bird and made his escape. “You all will suffer god's wrath!” He yelled as he flew away.

Chopper ran over to him and Law just leaned down trying to ignore his own pain. “Did you get seriously injured?” He was studying the little reindeer's body, he had definitely been hit with the spear.

“ME!?” The deer yelled in disbelief. “Law are you okay!? That was so cool!!” He shook his head. “But did you get hurt?” He was looking him over with worried eyes.

“I’m fine.” He looked away not knowing how to feel about his worry.

Chopper then turned to the old guy who had shown up to help them. “Thanks so much for your assistance.” The deer seemed familiar with the man, and he seemed like he was going to stay with the ship, so Law started to go back inside.

“Fighting like that through your warmth* is a very honorable thing. Those usurpers have no respect for our ways. Shameful for them to attack you during this time.” He could tell the old man was trying to be confronting or something, but Law wasn’t in the mood.

“Sure.” He called behind him and he went back inside throwing himself onto the cushions and laying down. That had taken way more energy out of him then it should have. Despite the man's words, Law knew that he really was useless right now. He just needed to get through this and get off this ship. He closed his eyes, relaxing back on the pillow that had Luffy’s shirt on it taking in a deep breath. Yeah, he just needed to leave as soon as possible...

Chapter Text

Law was starting to feel a build up to one of his worst peaks when he heard a knock at the door. “Hey Torao, we are having a cool bonfire and eating food if you want to come get some fresh air?” 

Law reached out toward the door. Alpha, need alpha! His body was practically screaming at him. The shirt had been a nice band aid, but it was nothing compared to knowing Luffy was just outside that door. “Alpha.” He whined without meaning to he knew his scent must be everywhere.

“Torao are you okay?” He heard the other call out. He was leaning up to the door now and Law could smell him. He was so close, he could just open the door and have him. He had made it clear what he thought of Law, maybe he would just fuck him and end this nightmare?

“Alpha.” He whined again pushing himself up against the door. He knew what he was doing, if Luffy liked his smell as much as he said he did there was no way he would resist this.

He heard the other take a deep breath and stand there frozen. He didn’t open the door, but he hadn’t left yet either. “Tor-rao?” He called in a small voice.

There were a lot of things Law wanted right now but even in this state he couldn’t bring himself to vocalize them. “Luffy-ya just… come in here.” He hoped that was clear enough and that the other would understand. He saw the doorknob start to twist before the other let go suddenly and he heard him jump back.

“S-sorry Torao, I-I will see you later.” He could hear him scrambling down the hallway and Law let out a whine as he left. What kind of an alpha was this kid? How could he turn down what Law was offering him? Did he really just run away from an omega offering themselves in heat? It just didn’t make sense, this alpha just didn’t make sense!

Law groaned, throwing himself down on the pillows. It was just him handling this alone, but that was fine, he was used to being alone. He could handle this by himself, he didn’t need anyone he never had. It was weird though, on this ship sometimes it was like there was a gentile presence watching over him. Law didn’t know what it was or even if he was imagining it, but it didn’t feel negative and he was exhausted so he didn’t waste his time worrying.

Law was aware time was going by and there wasn’t any sunlight in this room so it was hard to tell just how much. He just wished for it to all be over soon, and he really did think he was nearing the end, or maybe he was just being hopeful. 

CRACK BOOM

Law jumped in his bed at the sound of a lighting strike, it sounded really close. He hoped it wasn’t storming out there. In this room he really had no idea of what was happening.

CRACK BOOM

The ship shook again and Law worried about the lighting being so close, it sounded like it was right on deck. He was pretty sure it wasn’t cannon fire, he had become pretty familiar with that sound in his younger years. Still, he hoped that they weren’t being attacked again, though he was feeling better his body was truly in no shape to fight. 

Law was just about to lay his head back down when he froze, picking up on a strange scent. That was the scent of an unfamiliar alpha on the ship, and it was getting closer. Law moved quickly grabbing Kikoku from next to him and readying himself for an attack. He saw the doorknob move and as the door was flung open, he charged with his blade, smirking as he felt it meet his mark. He had no idea who this alpha was, but he would pay for daring to come near him. The man was tall, though not as tall as someone like Doffy, he was blonde as well though and had long ear lobes that must have been some sort of fashion statement.

Law expected the alpha to look at him in surprise or even in pain but instead he was smirking at Law like he had just done something hilarious. Law had seen that look on Crocodile too when people tried to stab him, shit was this man a logia? He didn’t have time to question more as soon he felt an electric shock traveling down his sword and into his body. It was overwhelming, all he could feel was heat and pain. He dropped the sword falling to the ground in front of the strange blonde man. He stepped forward, he smelled disgusting, like something burning but Law supposed that could also have been him.

“I like your tenacity, but it is useless against god.” Law did his best to glare up at the man from his position on the floor. His body was screaming at him, but he was forcing himself to move anyway. “You're a strong abjectus* aren’t you?” He seemed pleased at the thought. “You would be a nice addition to my harem. Befitting of a god.”

Law reached out for his sword, logia or not he would figure out a way to cut him. His fingers barely grazed the hilt before he felt the shock again. He tried to force his body to stay awake, he would not be vulnerable in front of this strange alpha, especially not right now. His body was being fried though, and he could barely keep his eyes open after the sensation had dissipated.

He felt large hands come and pick him up. “Don’t worry, you're with god now.” He could vaguely hear the guy smelling him. “Mmmm as soon as I sink this island you will be my reward.”

“Fuck… you.” he bit out baring his fangs.

“Chh, so crude, we will have to work on your manners.” The other started walking out of the boat and as Law began to drift off his mind called out for one alpha in particular…

Luffy 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Luffy didn’t know why but he could sense all of a sudden that something was wrong, and it wasn’t because he was inside of a giant snake, that was fun. No, something else was wrong, he could feel it. He had this sudden urge to check on Torao just to make sure he was okay. Though last time he had gone by his room it had almost been bad. Luffy didn’t even understand it himself but the last time he had gone to check on Torao he felt really odd. He got warm and excited and it felt like his body wanted something but he didn’t really know what. He had heard that alphas had a hard time resisting an omega in heat and he hadn’t understood it then. He had been around Nami and Sanji in heat and he couldn’t have cared less, but something was different with Torao. Though Luffy knew something was different about him the first time he saw him. He just knew that he needed Torao to be by his side. At that moment he didn’t care about Crocodile and he didn’t care about Alabasta, all he cared about was Torao.

Luffy looked around with a new determination. “We need to get out of this snake.” He said simply.

He flinched as he felt Nami hit him on his head. “Have you seriously not been trying to get out until now!?”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pain, that was the first thing to register. His body was exhausted and sore pretty much all over the place.

“There is a great deal of noise outside at the moment, but no matter. It's hardly worth mentioning hahaha.” That voice rang through Law’s mind as he came back to consciousness. His eyes opening quickly to try and take in the situation around him. He appeared to be on a boat, he was practically surrounded by gold. He could feel the presence of this so-called god behind him, and he thought about trying to fight again, but he paused when another voice cut in. 

“Uh about this mantra you guys have…” It was that red headed girl on Luffy’s crew, did that mean they had lost? “Could it be used to locate a specific individual?” Law didn’t know what she was playing at, but he did his best to remain still. The ’god’ didn’t have a line of sight on him, as he was laying next to his throne on the ground. Maybe if he held still, he could pretend long enough to think up a plan.

“Not usually, most of us lack that ability, however I am unique.” The god bragged. “In addition to that my lighting abilities allow me to feel electric vibrations, even pick up on conversations. So when I hear someone say something out of line, I can cast my divine judgement on them.” This guy really did think he was a god. “That is how I found your little friend here so easily.” He felt a hand grab him and drag him up. Law instantly squirmed trying to get out of the touch. “Glad to see you're awake, it will make this all so much more fun.” He laughed in Law’s face as he hissed back at him. “Let that be a lesson to you little abjectus*, there is nowhere for you to run that I cannot find you.” He put Law down though this time it was in front of the throne so he could keep his eye on him.

“This will be Skypea’s last dance! A party of angels in the sky haha!” He seemed to really be enjoying himself. Law looked at the redhead and could see the fear on her face but to her credit she was holding herself together pretty well. He could see that her eye kept moving to him quickly every once in a while as if she was trying to gage his position in all of this.

Then they both felt the 'god’s' energy shift. Nami squeaked suddenly as he stood up. “Sorry did I do something wrong?” He could hear the panic in her voice.

“No it's… nothing of concern.” He walked to the edge of his boat. “As I thought they weren’t among the five survivors. Now where in the world could they have been hiding.” It seemed like he was talking to himself more than anything. He noticed that the redhead was trying to get closer to Law now that the ‘god’ was distracted. “How aggravating.”

It was then that Law heard something that made him freeze. “HEY ARE YOU THE ONE THEY CALL ENEL?!” He recognized that voice, it was Luffy. He couldn’t help but to pick his head up at the sound even though he couldn’t see over the edge of the boat. It seemed the navigator had abandoned whatever her plan was and instead had rushed to the side of the boat.

“Luffy!!” She cried out in pure relief.

“Nami, is Torao there?” She nodded in confirmation and it looked like she was almost in tears. “You messed with my friends and you took my Torao! I am going to kick your ass for all of them!!” Law could feel the anger radiating off of him.

“You think because you are an Imperium* you can come in here and demand things of a god? I will show you your place mortal! Your abjectus are mine, I have won them in battle and will show you how outmatched you are!” Law could hear the lighting crack and feel the static electricity in the air. Law closed his eyes in a silent prayer that Luffy would somehow win this.

“I am going to kick your ass!!!!” He heard him yell again.

“Chh so crude, how dare you speak to a god this way?!”

“Oh yeah and what makes you a god anyway!” He called back completely devoid of fear.

Enel looked down at him and Law could see what small amusement that had been present leave his face. “You will soon find out.” He could hear Luffy stretching. “Ahhh I see you are no normal human either, but it doesn’t matter! You stand no chance against me!” 

Then he could see him. Luffy was flying at Enel with such determination, but the 'god' just relaxed and reached out both of his hands towards him. “You will not survive my divine judgement!” The bolt of lightning that left his hands was so powerful it made Law flinch. There was no way a human being could survive that, he would be fried to the bone.

Nami seemed to have come to the same conclusion as she sunk to her knees, tears still in her eyes. When the dust cleared however Luffy was just standing there completely unharmed and a little confused. It was then that Law realized something, he was made of rubber. He felt so stupid for not realizing it before. Law smirked, this guy was so screwed, it was like Luffy was made to fight him.

“I am impressed that you managed to dodge it.” It seemed the so-called god hadn’t realized yet, probably too arrogant to think that his power could possibly be nullified. He started to swirl his golden staff around. “Sixy millions volts!” He yelled as he struck him, it was clear that his attack had met its mark and yet Luffy still stood there. 

Law started to smile at the absurdity of the situation. Enel glared at him before jumping across the distance in order to deliver a shock at point blank range. It still did nothing. ”I have had enough of you, get off!” Luffy yelled throwing him back.

The face of utter shock that the self-proclaimed god was making pushed Law over the edge and he started laughing. He noticed Luffy’s attention immediately stray from the fight and lock onto him, unfortunately Enel’s did as well, and he quickly wiped the expression off of his face.

“Some god you are! I am looking forward to watching this.” He made sure to give his best eat shit grin to the man.

“Shishi don’t worry Torao I will kick his ass really good for you!” Luffy’s eyes were now focused back on his opponent, but his face looked a little red. 

“Chhh like I care.” Law called back but he still felt a small warmth in his stomach. He had come for him, his alpha had come for him…

Chapter Text

Law watched with a satisfied smirk as Enel tried and failed to hurt Luffy with his lighting. He couldn’t deny that now that he wasn’t the one fighting against Luffy he enjoyed watching him fight. He was so strong and fierce it was like watching an unstoppable force of nature. 

Of course, right as he had thought that the tables immediately turned, and Luffy’s arm was encased in gold. Law struggled in his cuffs wanting to help but coming up blank. He didn’t have Kikoku and he was in seastone and still in heat but there must be something he could do? Crocodile had taught him there was always something that could be done, you just had to look at every angle. 

He watched in horror as Luffy fell from the ship, the gold weighing him down like an anchor. He felt his stomach sink. There was no way the stupid alpha would get back up here in time! Law was screwed, so incredibly screwed! There was nothing he could do to fight him off, maybe if Law had his sword it would be different, or even just a sword maybe he could try… that . He was never really any good at it, but he knew one way to hit a logia user. 

“TORAOOO I am coming b ack for you !” He stiffened, eyes widening at those words, a yelled promise as he fell below. How could that alpha make such a stupid promise? There was no way he would be getting back up here. It's not like he could fly, and yet… he could feel his heart beating just a little bit faster.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Robin was stuck down on Skypea beside herself with worry while Law and Nami were captured and were currently being held somewhere above her. She feared it was all her fault, she had practically forced Law onto Luffy’s ship afterall. This wouldn’t have happened if she hadn’t done that, but at the time she thought it would be the safest place for him. She had always had a complicated relationship with the kid, she often still thought of him as such, he was still young when they met after all. 

Robin had learned in her life that she couldn’t trust anyone, though Sal’s words often rang in her head about her finding her true friends. She didn’t know if she had found that yet, she hoped she had, but she knew she had found something in Law. He was such a grumpy and cold person on the surface, but it didn’t take Robin long to see the caring person he tried to hide underneath. He was kind of like her in that way, too traumatized to let what was on the inside out. In their time together he had arguably saved her life a few times, not to mention the kid always had a subconscious habit of putting himself between her and whatever danger they were facing. He may have pretended not to care but his actions always gave him away.

She was surprised when he saved Luffy that day, although not too surprised. Law had seemed so loyal to Crocodile and to her amusement the warlord actually seemed to care about him as well, she didn’t think Law would ever go against him. Robin wasn’t sure exactly what their relationship was but after losing any parental figures at a young age, she couldn’t deny that she felt a small pang of jealousy when watching them. Still Law had saved her now captain at great risk to that relationship, she wondered if it was the will of D at work or if simply spoke to Law’s character. 

In spite of her intentions, she had grown close to him over the years. Even now, she had a selfish want for him to stay on the ship with them, not wanting to part from his comfortable presence after so long.

Her eyes started to search the sky desperately. She could only hope that Nami had noticed what she put in her pocket. If Luffy couldn’t get there in time, hopefully she would understand what to do. She wasn’t ready to lose someone who she had grown so close to again. Selfishly she hoped that he would come back down and she would get to hear him complain once more. He just had to come back down….

“Toraooo I am coming back for you!” Her eyes snapped to the sound and to her horror she saw Luffy falling through the clouds. “I will be back I promise!!!” She heard a thump as he hit the ground but she was sure that he was fine, she wasn't concerned with his rubber body, though the giant gold ball was a bit concerning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nami had come over to sit by Law once Luffy had been kicked off, Law rolled his eyes, did she think he was going to protect her like this? The only one who stood a chance had just fallen down to the ground, or the sky ground? At least he hoped he had just fallen back onto Skypea and didn’t go all the way down to Jaya. There was no way of knowing though as they were stuck here.

“Well that was a fun little interruption, but now we should get back to the show.” He walked over to where the two of them were and Nami straightened up quickly, it was then that he noticed how close to his hands her’s were. That was… odd. “I am glad you are both here to witness the divine destruction I am about to bring about!” He leaned over Law and he could smell him admitting his disgusting scent again. “And when I am done I will enjoy my prize.”

Law barred his small fangs at the threat. He would bite off that man’s dick if he had to but there was no way he would ever let him be his first. Not someone as disgusting as this.

“In fact maybe I will just get a taste now.” He reached down towards Law and to his surprise Nami put herself between them.

“D-dont you want to finish your plan first? I thought you wanted to show us your grand godly power? I happen to find power very attractive.” Why was she doing this? This woman owed him nothing and yet she was helping him.

“Hahaha what a good little abjectus you already are. You clearly know your place.” He laughed a bit more and pat her head condescendingly. “There is no need to be jealous, there is enough of me for you both to worship.”

Law didn’t know how yet but he was going to kill this man. He was about to pull the redhead out of the way when they heard something that made them all stop. “It is I the great god Usopp, fear me and my immense godly power!” The beta was standing proudly up on some crates and he looked like he was terrified despite his words. Law tilted his head in confusion, did this man have a power he wasn’t aware of? He didn’t think so and if that was the case what in the hell was he doing?! That psycho would surely kill him where he stood.

Enel frowned at the proclamation walking over closer to where Usopp was standing. Nami turned around quickly with a purpose, grabbing Law’s cuffs, inserting a key. Then with a click they were off. It took him a moment to register what had happened, he was rather overwhelmed by a sudden rush of energy returning to his body.

“Don’t make me regret this.” She was looking at him warily until they both jumped as a bolt of lightning came down from the sky hitting Usopp.

It was then that Law noticed another presence, the blonde had snuck up behind them. “Come on, we have to go.” Law looked to where Usopp laid on the ground a strange feeling twisting inside of him. These people had come back for him, he was their enemy and yet they were risking their lives to help him.

“Yeah, you should leave.” Law created a room switching the three of them away from Enel and onto the far side of the boat where their boat was attached. The god turned around in shock eyes narrowing to where Law was standing free of his cuffs. He held his room up as he searched for anything that he could use as a weapon. It seemed the gold was the only thing he was concerned with taking, and there weren’t any weapons he could find onboard. The closest thing was a type of multitool in Usopp’s pocket. Well he supposed that was better than nothing. He switched it with the object to his hand, a gold coin he had grabbed, readying himself. With this new influx of energy he was feeling much better, it felt like his heat was fading away too. 

“Do you really think you can stand against god with something like that?” He looked like he was so sure of himself, he was going to enjoy knocking that look off of his face.

Law narrowed his eyes, flicking out a corkscrew-like appendage from the tool. “Maybe not, but then again you're not a god, you're just a man and I am going to show you that we all bleed just the same.”

He reached out and Law teleported quickly a bolt of lightning hitting where he was. “Damn it, get out of there!” He heard Sanji yell but he was ignoring him, he needed to focus. Everything else was background noise. He switched again and another bolt hit where he had been standing.

“Jump around all you want little abjectus, it won’t matter in the end.” He took a deep breath; he knew what he was aiming for, not only that he figured the guy would be too arrogant to dodge. He tried to focus his energy like he had before in training, he had to win here, no, he would win here!

He suddenly appeared in front of him bringing the corkscrew down, aiming for a particular target. The man jumped back slightly in reflex causing Law to miss and for him to cut open his inner thigh instead. The target hadn’t met its mark still, Law did his best to slice through the artery there and cause as much damage as possible, but he didn’t have too much to work with. He teleported away before he could be struck leaving the corkscrew in the man’s leg.

“Oh my god!” “He actually cut him!” “My tool is magic!” He heard behind him.

“H-how dare you!? How could you cut me!? I am a god! I am lightning itself!” It seemed the man was having a hard time wrapping his mind around what was happening as his blood dripped onto the planks below him. 

“You really think you're God, well okay then,” He held up his own hand stained with the man’s blood showing his tattoos to him. “If you're God then that must make me Death.”

He could see the fear clearly on his face. “I will destroy you!” The god yelled out striking where Law had just been.

“Law, come on!” He heard a voice call behind him. Why were they still waiting for him?

“Get out of here I can handle it!” He switched again to avoid another strike. 

“Luffy will kill us if we leave you here like this!” Those were the redhead’s words but her eyes seemed worried. Her pity was wasted on him; he didn't need it. Law was not going to lose here, Crocodile had trained him to be strong.

“I am not frightened by this poser, now get out of here. I may not have my sword but I am not powerless.”

Enel pulled the corkscrew out of his leg, studying it, as if he was looking for any reason it may have cut him before throwing it over the edge. “I think I will enjoy this.”

They both turned to look at each other, Law glaring back in defiance switching the tool back into his hand but before either of them could move a sound cut through the tenson.

“ too oorAOOOOO!!!!!”

He felt his heartbeat start to quicken, it couldn’t be? How could he get up here with that giant gold ball? His question was soon answered as he looked up. The alpha was running up the beanstalk itself with the ball still attached. He had to have run all the way up from the bottom, just for Law.

BaBum

Luffy crashed onto the deck between where Enel and him were standing, effectively separating them. Despite his determination he flashed Law a wide smile. “I told you I would come back for you.”

BaBum

“You fools! You think you have any chance against god? You truly think you can win?” He called, a bit desperately.

“Watch me Torao.” Luffy called to him, his smile turning into a grin. It seems due to his sudden appearance the others took it as their que to leave. Law however decided to stay. He took a few steps back. 

“Okay then, show me what you can do.” He did worry a bit about the alpha fighting at a disadvantage. That worry was clearly unfounded as he found himself smiling watching the battle. Just like before Luffy battled with a fierce determination, though it was different this time, more focused. The fact that he was able to fight so effectively with such a big handicap was impressive, the kid acted like it was just a minor inconvenience not a huge heavy ball weighing him down. He must be really strong. Law swallowed his spit at the thought not realizing how dry his throat had gotten. 

He suddenly felt the urge to help him. “Room.” He activated his power reaching out trying to just focus on the gold. “Shambles!” A very confused seagull was now in the middle of the fight while the gold fell back down to Skypea where it belonged. 

“Thanks Torao!!!” He called happily as the bird flew away. The effect on Luffy was instantaneous, his movements becoming quicker, more deadly.

He dodged and landed a few hits on Enel, since the ‘god’ clearly wasn't used to being hit, and with his leg wounded the battle was soon drawing to a close. Still with every hit that Luffy got he felt the corners of his mouth creeping up higher and higher.

“How-how could you defeat me?! I don’t understand!” He called on his knees in front of Luffy, his leg had given out on him.

Luffy winded back, readying his last punch. “You're not a god, you're just a man! A man who’s ass I just kicked!” Law enjoyed the cracking sounds Enel’s bones made when he connected. The man laid on the deck of the ship, completely unconscious. Law breathed a sigh of relief looking at him laying there, this nightmare was over.

The only problem was without Enel awake the ship couldn’t fly. Suddenly Law’s world shifted as the ship began to fall apart. This was fine, he could just jump off and use his room to switch with debris on the way down, he would be fine.

He walked over to the edge ready to jump when long rubbery arms wrapped around him. “Don’t worry Torao I got you!” And with that the two of them were falling off the edge of the boat and down towards the ground.

“Shishi isn’t this fun Torao!!??”

Law just found himself looking at this strange alpha who was laughing happily as they plummeted to their deaths. He still didn’t know what to make of the man. He was strong, that was for sure, Law had just witnessed that firsthand. He also was weirdly respectful in some ways while having no boundaries in others, it was just so confusing. He turned away from Law in heat and yet he almost killed himself to get him back from Enel. He didn’t have more time to dwell on it as Luffy was soon puffing himself out like a huge balloon and they bounced harmlessly on the ground. 

To his surprise Luffy released him when he stopped bouncing, without the cuffs on he thought he might have tried something but he just stood there smiling at Law.

He opened his mouth to say something, what he honestly didn’t know but he was cut off by a pair of arms wrapping around him. He stiffened in surprise seeing a familiar cut of black hair in his vision. “I am so glad you're okay!” It was Robin and she was hugging him? He didn’t understand, they had never really… why would she… was she really this worried about him? It was then that a lot of things snapped into perspective, the way she always made sure he was eating, how she would tease him when he did something reckless, how she dragged him along in cuffs because she knew it was the only way to keep him safe.

Law reached out and hugged her back. He felt her surprise at the action but it felt nice. Law wasn’t scared up there, not even slightly, but this was helping to calm him. After a few more moments they released each other. “Don’t worry, I wouldn’t die that easily, believe me the world has tried a lot harder than that.”

She laughed at his joke and he could hear the relief in her voice. “Good to know.”

“That was so cool!” Usopp was in front of him though he still looked a little nervous. Law looked behind him to see if he was talking to someone else but there was no one there.

“Uh are you talking to me?”

“Duh! The way you stabbed him was so cool and then you were all like ‘If you're God then that must make me Death!’ It was like a comic book moment!” His impression of him wasn't bad but Law's mind was caught up on the last part of the sentence.

“Like a comic book?” Law didn’t know if it was showing but he was practically beaming on the inside with that compliment. 

“Why did you hit his thigh though, there some medical reason it was a good target?” Sanji asked, also coming by him.

“I wasn’t aiming for his thigh.” Law said with a deadpan expression. Sanji and Usopp made a horrified face bringing both their hands to cover their crotches out of reflex.

Nami however seemed to find it rather amusing. “Hahaha that's great! Would have deserved it too, pervy bastard.”

They were all casually hanging around Law now and he didn’t know what to make of it. He reached up to tug on his hat only for him to realize it must still be in the heat room. He looked down at himself realizing that this entire time he had been fighting in a tank top and boxers. He could feel his face heating up at the realization. With his adrenaline rush wearing off Law was starting to feel the effects of his heat again. God these past few days had been absolutely exhausting but at last he could tell he was at the end of it.

“Torao, you want to go take a nap?” Law’s attention snapped back to the captain who was trying his best to give Law space, but he could see him struggling. As he looked at him longer, he could tell his body was exhausted as well but he was trying his best to stay awake by him.

Law didn’t know what made him say it, he blamed it on his hormones still being spiked and the fact that the alpha had come back to save him. “Sure, whatever.”

Luffy smiled so wide wrapping his arms around Law and picking him up to run into the jungle leaving Law to wonder just what he had gotten himself into.

Chapter Text

Leaving Skypea and getting back to ‘the ground’ should have been a big relief to Law, but their way down had been about as conventional as their way up. Still Law was feeling a lot better now that his heat was over, despite their earlier freefalling. The Strawhats all seemed a lot less nervous around him, but he still tried his best to keep his distance. He was finding it increasingly hard though as the boat wasn’t too big, it didn’t seem to matter where he went, a certain alpha would find him after not too long.

Law may have slept the rest of his heat and injuries away with Luffy after dealing with Enel but that didn’t mean anything. He had been just feeling confused because of his heat and his smell made him relax, that was all. There was no way in hell he was falling for this alpha. 

They had spotted land finally and were headed towards it when the other alpha Law was avoiding cornered him. “Just show me how you did it!” Ever since the Usopp had told the ‘harrowing tale of how Law tried to cut off god’s dick’ Zoro had been bothering him.

“Can I not have a moment of peace on this boat?” He complained trying to go around him.

“You can once you show me how you did it!” The other persisted.

Law tisked. “Figure it out, I am not your crewmate, it's not to my benefit if you get stronger.”

The swordsman glared at him and drew his blades striking at Law. Annoyed and free of his cuffs he simply switched their places causing him to strike the deck.

“HEY! Don’t destroy the ship!” Usopp yelled as he ran over to start inspecting the damage.

“Tell your swordsman that.” Law snapped trying again to gain some distance. Just as he thought he had escaped him he felt another presence. 

“Hey Torao are you going to come explore?” Law looked around the island and it didn't look like anyone had inhabited it for awhile.

“Well I won’t be getting off here, so I might as well stay onboard.”

Luffy frowned. “That's silly Torao, come explore!”

If Law could go back to one point in time and undo something it would be his decision to explore this strange island with the Strawhats. He had never been so thankful for his insistence in not being apart of their crew because if he had to deal with the Foxy Pirates there would have been a trail of bodies. He already had a headache from simply being a spectator. As it stood Law sat as far away from everyone as he could as he watched the ‘games’ and felt himself descend further into madness. Watching Luffy come out in the afro was the final straw for him. He had to get away from this crew soon, who knew what would happen the longer he stayed around them.

That feeling only intensified with his next encounter. It took a moment for Law to recognize the man laying there but once he did, he felt himself tense immediately, curiously enough he felt Robin tense too. There right in front of them was an admiral, Law didn’t know what he was doing here but it was bad news. He stepped instinctually to put himself between him and Robin, even though the man didn’t seem like he was going to attack that could change at any moment. 

Currently he seemed distracted by the others, but he felt a bit of a chill when his eyes settled on Robin. It was gone soon though as he was focused back on Luffy, apparently his grandfather was someone he knew. Law wasn’t paying attention though as he was picking up on worsening distress from Robin.

“Nico Robin will betray you.” That was it, Law drew his sword. He didn’t know who this person thought he was, but he was going down. He had already beaten one logia this week, and that was with just a corkscrew, why not another? “Every group she has ever worked for no longer exists, she is a plague and she will bring you down too.”

Law had heard enough, while the Strawhats held Luffy back Law shambled behind the admiral and struck. Unfortunately, It seemed even though the other looked slow he was not, and he blocked him easily with his ice. Law quickly shambled himself away with his sword, flicking it a few times to get the ice off.

“Well, well, Trafalgar Law, the government has been wondering where you ended up after Crocodile fell. Surprised to see you with the Strawhats, did you defect from Crocodile then?”

“None of your business! I also won’t stand here and listen to some government dog badmouth Robin of all people.” He raised his sword while the other just stood there looking at him curiously.

“You know, I knew the owner of that hat.” Law froze and his sword dropped just a little bit. This man knew Cora-san? It was what clearly what the marine was looking for because at his slight hesitation he shot past everyone, his hand outstretched towards Robin. Law acted on instinct ready to fight, he focused his haki into his sword and as he brought it down he switched places with Robin, putting her safely behind Luffy.

As Law struck out with his haki and he smiled as he felt the sword imbed in the man’s shoulder, unfortunately it wasn’t enough and he felt the ice creeping up his arms. “Shit.” He cursed lowly trying to get away.

“Torao!!” Luffy called as Law jumped back but he was aware of the ice coating his arms and how dangerous it was. With his hands gripping his sword he couldn't use his devil fruit. 

“You should just leave Nico Robin to me.” He looked hesitant at Law, like he didn’t actually want to fight him.

“Get everyone back to the boat now!” He heard Luffy yell and was vaguely aware of people running. The admiral looked like he was going to turn and give chase, but Law took his attention back.

“How did you know Cora-san?” He tried to keep his voice low but he could feel Luffy’s eyes on him.

He could feel the marine studying Law, he felt a bit like a bug under a microscope. “He was an old friend of mine, that's why I would hate to have to kill you here.” 

“Can’t say I feel the same.” Law was toying around with the idea of banging his arms against the tree or maybe if he could focus enough of that black energy he could get it off. Ideally, he would submerge it in warm water but that wasn't really an option at the moment. 

“Get away from Torao!!” Luffy was in between them and punched aimlessly at the admiral. Law rolled his eyes as his hands were predictably soon also incased in ice. 

“You idiot, how is that going to help?” He complained as they both jumped away. 

“Well what else was I supposed to do?” Luffy asked seriously.

He was truly an idiot. “Not punch an enemy made of ice when you are rubber!”

 “You have ice on your hands too!” Luffy defended.

Law felt his face heat up. “Yeah, but I ugg- at least I was smarter about it!” That wasn’t the best comeback, but Luffy always made him flustered.

The admiral was just standing at them staring when it finally seemed like a lightbulb went off in his head. “Oh I get it, you two are a couple.”

Law turned to glare at him. “NO!” “Yes!” Luffy answered at the same time.

Law turned to look behind him realizing that Robin had made it away safely. “Look, let's just go on our separate ways now, you said you don’t want to fight us and it's your day off or something right? Let's just walk away.”

The marine seemed to study the both of them, his eyes lingering on Law for a bit longer. “Well I suppose due to special circumstances if I turned my back and the two of you ran off there would be nothing I could do.” True to his word he turned around and gave them their opening.

Law turned to go but he saw Luffy standing there conflicted. “Live to fight another day.” He urged him quietly. The pirate's eyes snapped to him, and he smiled softly before following Law back to the ship. He could tell the other wasn’t a fan of turning tail and running but they were not a match for the man at the level they were.

When they made it back to the boat it seemed Zoro and Sanji were just about to run back after them. Before any of them could say anything, another voice called out.

“GET IN SIDE BOTH OF YOU!!!” Chopper ran up looking between the two of them in panic. He ushered them into the ship and soon they were both kneeling next to each other with their arms in warm water while Chopper tried to get the ice away and warm up their muscles. 

The deer stepped out for a moment to go get some ointment and the two of them were left alone together trying to unfreeze themselves. Law hoped the alpha would just be quiet, but he should have known better.

“So, Torao has an important hat too?” Law eyed him warily, this wasn’t something he liked to talk about. He fought the urge to reach up and touch his tassels, there wouldn't be a point with the ice still encasing his hands.

“Yeah… something like that.” He found himself answering.

“Was he cool?” The question caught him by surprise.

“What?”

“The guy who gave it to you, was he cool?” He repeated looking up at him with those wide curious eyes.

Law’s mind wandered back to memories he tried not to think of often... He thought of Cora-san, he thought of him setting himself on fire, tripping over everything in his path, always looking at him with that big smile. He then thought about how hard he tried to prove his devil fruit was cool and not lame like Law was claiming, firing guns and making as much noise as possible only for Law to hear nothing. He found himself smiling even though his heart hurt. “Not even a little bit.”

Luffy just laughed, but it was a soft laugh like he was laughing with Law, and he found himself chuckling too. “What about you?”

“Me?”

“Yeah your hat?” His hat obviously had some importance to him, it seemed like the only thing Luffy made sure was protected.

“Oh shishi yeah Shanks is the coolest! He gave it to me when I was a kid! I promised him then and there that I was going to be King of the pirates!” He said it with such confidence and yet like it was simply a fact, just something that would be.

“King of the pirates huh?...Wait Shanks? Like Red Haired Shanks?” His mind had caught up to the first part of that sentence.

“Yeah! He is pretty cool but don’t worry Torao, I am going to be even cooler!” Law smiled just slightly, looking at the alpha, he was just so earnest and honestly a bit charming. “And then when I am King you can be my Queen!” Law changed everything he had just thought, this man was not charming, he was a lunatic.

He was saved from having to respond to that ludacris statement as the little doctor had come back in. Law had never been more thankful for the cute deer. Once the feeling returned to Law’s hands he cast a room and helped to diminish any injury he had gotten, Luffy was fine of course.

“Are you sure you are okay?” Chopper was looking at where his skin was still red. 

“Don’t worry, it will fade soon.” He found himself assuring him, why he was so concerned about Law was lost on him. 

“Shishi Torao is really cool isn't he Chopper?” Law rolled his eyes at the compliment, refusing to be charmed by it.

When they returned to the deck Law ignored Luffy and went straight to sit by Robin. He noticed she was sitting far away from everyone and Law could tell she was upset. There was just a small tick downwards in her otherwise perfect mask, a pretty big tell as far as she was concerned.

He sat down confidently next to her though she didn’t look at him. “Don’t pay that asshole any mind.” He knew she was upset about the admiral's words, it seemed the two were also a bit familiar with each other. 

“He is right, you know, I betrayed everyone, even Crocodile. You should hate me too.” Her voice was calm and quiet, but he could hear the emotion in it.

“Yeah well, I guess we both did in the end, so it would be hypocritical of me to hate you for that. Not to mention you saved my life, let's just call it a wash.”

She smacked his arm slightly. “I am being serious Law… At the end I didn’t read to him what was on the Poneglyph and he was so mad he…”

“Thank you.”

She turned to him now and he could see the shock in her face. “I didn’t like how he was talking in the end there, about being a god and all. I don’t think he would be a good person to have that ultimate power. Hell, I don’t think anyone should have the power to wipe out an Island anyway. It's bad enough the government can.”

He seemed to have eased her conscious a little because she turned back to face forward and Law could see her watching the crew with a foreign look on her face. “Do you think we could ever belong in a place like this? Do you think people like us could ever be here with people like them, or do you think we will just drag them down with us.”

Law followed her gaze and watched Luffy chase Usopp around the deck. Usopp yelling in fake panic while Luffy laughed. That kind of thing was so foreign to him. “I don’t think you want me to answer that question.”

She didn’t even hesitate. “You're the only one I want to answer that question.” 

Law was the only one? He didn’t know why she was putting so much faith in him, but he knew he had to be honest. Not just with her but with himself.  “No, I...I don’t think we ever could but…” His eyes drifted over to the carefree alpha. “Maybe there is a part of me that wishes we could.” He knew in his heart that he had to leave, he couldn’t stay by all of this warmth and kindness, he would end up staining it all. 

“You're still planning on getting off then?” She asked simply, she always was good at understanding him.

“I am.” He confirmed.

“I will miss you.” She offered softly.

“Yeah… you too.” They both sat quietly next to each other after that, enjoying the laughter of people they just couldn’t understand.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This was becoming annoying, Doflamingo had only come here to check up on a few things and it turns out Strawhat had beaten up the, now useless, punks using his name. What was even worse was that, the Strawhats had been spotted with Nico Robin and she was the one who took Law from that idiot marine Smoker.

If he had just been a bit quicker he might have that sweet omega at his side right now, instead he is stuck here dealing with this trash. He aimed another kick at Bellamy, but it didn’t make him feel better. He supposed for once even others suffering couldn’t cheer him up. Not when he had been so close only for Law to slip through his fingers again.

The omega had clearly grown, if Doflamingo hadn’t gotten to Diamante in time he most certainly would have died. It wasn’t his fault though, he shouldn’t have underestimated the omega’s strength, he was clearly becoming much more adept at using his fruit and that could become a problem. On the other hand, it never was as much fun with the submissive ones, he always did enjoy the chase. There was something about overpowering someone so strong and determined and making them bend to your will that was just so delicious. 

He stepped over the punk at his feet and went back to his ship, he was bored of tormenting him now and he had much better things on his mind. All he had to do was to get his hands on Law, and once he was done having his fun with him, he would have what he has always deserved: Immortality. He had no doubts that he would have it either, the omega couldn’t avoid him forever and with his resources it was only a matter of time.

Chapter Text

“But Torao you can’t go!!!” Luffy was full on pouting in front of him. It was rather endearing but then again, the fact that he even thought that was more proof he needed to leave. He couldn't afford to stay here and become some alpha obsessed omega!

“Too bad Strawhat-ya, I am leaving.” He said firmly, putting a few gold coins into his pocket. Nami had given them to him as a thank you for stabbing Enel. 

“But Toroaoooo!” He was giving him his best version of puppy eyes and it was not affecting Law’s resolve.

“Are you going to force me to stay?” Law asked very pointedly, it was something that had been on his mind. Wondering if the alpha would truly let him go or if he was going to try to keep him here. It wouldn’t be uncommon in the world they lived in for an alpha to do just that.

Luffy scrunched up his face. “I don't want you to leave but I won’t force you to stay. I don’t want to take away your freedom.” Law could tell he meant it even if he didn’t like it.

As he looked at his sad face and he felt a little something chip away at him. “Well then… maybe we will meet again.”

His frown was soon replaced with a wide smile. “Of course we will Torao! I just hope it's soon!”

Law felt his face heat up and he made sure to turn around quickly. “Sure, uh bye or whatever.” He made his way off the ship giving one final nod to Robin as he left. They had already said their goodbyes, but he would miss her the most. Still, he knew Luffy would take care of her and that thought was comforting to him.

“BYE TORAOOOO!!!!” He heard Luffy yelling, only causing him to quicken his pace.

As he made his way through the city, he was both amazed and alarmed at how much water was present. It was one thing for the city itself to be floating but water was truly a big part of the city design. As a devil fruit user he would have to be extra cautious. 

The first thing he did was to exchange the gold for berries. Seeing as he was an omega they initially tried to rip him off but after a few amputated limbs they seemed to be singing a much different tune. With money in his pocket and his newfound freedom he felt like he should be happy, but instead he just felt anxiety creeping up on him.

Law was alone now, he had no one to watch his back anymore. That was fine though, it's not like he needed anyone anyway. He would just have to be more careful now that he was on his own. He wasn’t a fool, he may have gotten out of Alabasta but he knew that Doflamingo was still looking for him, and he knew he had a very wide reach. The town he was in didn’t seem like it had too heavy of a government or pirate presence, but he still had to be careful. He looked down at his clothes, maybe changing would be a good idea, it would certainly help him to blend in. Not that he had a wanted poster to worry about and that was bugging him. 

Crocodile had defected from the world government, not that he ever really was loyal to them in the first place, but he had betrayed them and everyone else that worked for him was either in impel down or had a wanted poster. Everyone except Law. That admiral though… he had known his name, he even said the government was looking for him. If that was truly the case though, wouldn’t it make sense for him to have a wanted poster? He sighed and decided he would stop trying to make sense of the government's actions, it didn’t matter anyway he still needed to get new clothes to hide easier from Doflamingo.

He was walking by a few different shops when something caught his eye. Without a second thought he entered the store and went right up to the item. A coat hung there like it was just waiting for him, it was long and black, the kind he had always wanted to wear but due to the heat wasn’t able to. Not only that but the collar had blue feathers around it, Law reached out to touch them enjoying the familiar yet now too foreign feeling of them in his hands. He looked around the store and found a few more articles of clothing he liked along with some black heeled boots. He was going to take full advantage of no longer living in that sandy hellscape. He purchased the clothes along with a small backpack and went into their dressing room, it was better to change now, the less time he spent in this outfit the less recognizable he would be.

He put on his black pants and long coat, trading his heart shirt out for something plain white. He looked in the mirror, his eyes lingering on his hat. The hat was arguably the most easily recognizable article of clothing, hell it seemed even the marines recognized it. Doflamingo would have no issue picking out his brother's hat in a crowd either, not to mention it didn’t go with his new clothes at all and yet…. He just couldn’t bring himself to take it off. He knew he was being stupid and sentimental; it was just a hat after all, it would do more harm for his situation than good, but it was all he had left of Cora-san. He sighed pulling his hand away from the hat, he knew he was being stupid but as he walked out of the shop the hat stayed firmly on his head. It sort of made him feel less alone. 

It was now that Law was faced with his next decision, just what exactly was he going to do now? He had spent so much time with Crocodile, and then he got caught up with all that nonsense with the Strawhats, he hadn’t really had time to think about it. Did he want to start his own crew? Did he want to join one? It would be hard to defeat Doflamingo on his own, and clearly he would never be free to live his life until the man was dealt with. He thought about what Crocodile would do in this situation. Since he didn’t have a wanted poster, it would be easier to fly under the radar, he just needed to find a few key people he could trust or bribe to work with him. He started to walk around town, observing, trying to find a place to start.

It wasn’t until later that night he saw a familiar face, he knew the Strawhats were here obviously, so it wasn't surprising to run into one of them. The more he looked at the man though he noticed something seemed off, not to mention the guy was buying himself a lot of bandages. Where was Chopper? Law stood there looking at Usopp as he debated approaching. He watched as the man dropped some of the bandages on the ground and was wincing picking them up. with a sigh he decided to head over. 

“How could you possibly get yourself so hurt so badly so quickly?”

The man jumped up squealing in surprise before turning to look at Law. “Do-on’t scare me like that!”

Law just smirked; he may have been trying to scare him just slightly. “Why are you here, shouldn't Chopper be fixing you up?”

The beta clenched his fists before turning away. “No. I left that crew. I can take care of myself, I don't need them!”

Law could almost taste the regret coming off of him not to mention he looked a lot worse for wear. Pathetic really, that was probably why he said what he said. “Let me fix you up.”

“I don't car- wait what?” His offer must have taken him off guard.

“You look like a mess.” It was the truth after all.

“Aren’t you supposed to say no offense?”

“No.” Law replied flatly.

He could see the offense and suspicion on his face as he looked back at him. “How do I know you're not just going to kill me?”

Law raised his eyebrow. “Why would I heal you just to kill you? Seems like a waste of time.”

“Why would you heal me anyway?” He questioned.

“Because I am a doctor.” He said simply, then added. “You know, normally people don’t fight this hard against free medical care.”

“Well most doctor’s don't have death written on their hands!” He saw him wince as he yelled then gave in. “Fine, you can come back with me to the ship.”

“Uh I would rather not run into-”

“They won't be there.” There was a dark edge to his voice, and Law could tell there was something more going on. He just tilted his head in curiosity as he followed the beta back to the ship. At the very least he could probably stay there for free tonight, especially if Luffy wasn’t there, he needed to think about conserving his berries after all. 

It was weird to be back on the Merry so soon, even more so now that it was devoid of the noise and laughter Law had become accustomed to. 

He followed Usopp inside where he sat down in the galley and put the bandages on the table. Law went over to him immediately, opening his room. The man jumped away from him. “I knew you were going to kill me!”

Law just looked back unamused. “Sit down before you make your injuries worse. I heal with my fruit, I thought Vivi had told you that?”

He froze as Law’s words sank in, then slowly sunk back down onto the bench. “Oh yeah… she said something about... Miracles?”

Law scoffed. “I don’t like using that term for it, but yes. Now are you going to freak out when I activate my room?”

“Uhhh no s-sory.” Law just rolled his eyes again the man was clearly afraid of him still, but it wasn’t like he had many other options. He started to do his job and even though he was tense at first he could feel him relaxing as they went along and he realized he was feeling no pain.

“So where did everyone go?” He could tell it was a sore spot but he was also very curious.

“I don’t know and I don’t care.” Law could tell that was a lie but he was quiet and let the man continue as he wrapped him in a few bandages. “They abandoned her! After everything she had done! She is such a great ship full of warmth! They said she couldn't be fixed and they just believed them! They didn’t even try!” The other sounded angry but he could tell that it was all stemming from a place of sadness.

Law dissipated his room, he had done about as much as he could for the other. He walked over to the wall of the ship putting his hand on it. It was almost like he felt a warm humming under his fingers. “She was a good boat.”

Usopp’s eyes snapped to him. “So you don’t think she can be fixed either?” He sounded incredibly defensive.

Law just shrugged unaffected by the man’s ire. “Who knows, I am certainly no expert on ships. Either way I appreciated her.” He gave the wall one last pat. “I will be staying the night as payment for your medical care.”

“Yeah sure…” He was looking over at him intensely as if he was trying to figure something out.  “You know maybe you're not that bad, I would even let you join the new Usopp pirates.”

Law found himself chuckling at the offer. “No thanks, I uh appreciate it though.”

He turned to walk out further into the ship to sleep. “So, what are you going to do then?” He paused at the question, it was one he had been asking himself a lot after all.

“Honestly, I don’t know.” He looked down at the words written on his hands. “This is the first time in a while I…” He stopped realizing that he was opening up to someone who was practically a stranger.

“Yeah, me too.” He could really hear the sadness in his voice.

“You know, I don’t know what happened but… Luffy-ya doesn't seem like the kind to hold grudges. I bet if you apologized he would forgive you.” Law offered.

“You don’t understand what happened, I doubt he ever wants to see me again.”

Law just shrugged. “If you say so.” With that he turned to go deeper into the ship, locking himself in a familiar closet as he settled in for the night. It wasn’t ideal but it was safe and it would do for now. Still, it was weird being here without hearing the familiar warm laughter and calming scent he had grown so fond of. He groaned trying to turn his brain off and get some sleep. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next morning the town was abuzz with news that the mayor was shot, Law wasn’t paying any attention until he heard the rumors about who had done it. He knew immediately it was a lie, there was no way that Robin would just go and murder some mayor. Not to mention the others just weren’t the type for that kind of thing, hell none of them even used guns. Just what in the hell was going on? Should he try to find Luffy? That seemed like the most logical option. He started to search around town but with them not returning to their ship he didn’t know where to look in this giant city, not to mention everyone else seemed to be looking for them as well to get revenge for their mayor. There was also the fact that there was supposed to be some sort of horrible storm tonight. 

Law paused briefly thinking of Usopp, did he know about the storm? He would certainly drown if he stayed on that boat. He shook his head back and forth, he didn’t have time for that, Robin was way more important. 

Despite those thoughts when his search wasn’t turning up anything, he begrudgingly decided to go warn the man. It wasn’t that he cared really but he had spent so much time fixing him up it would be a waste for him to die.

It was then that he had his first stroke of luck, he saw two familiar people there, though curiously they were hiding in trash whispering to each other while looking over at the boat. “What are you two doing?” Law asked causing them both to yell and jump into the air. 

“No-nothing!” Chopper yelled out nervously, at least he assumed that was him, he was in a different form then Law was used to, he looked a lot more deer-like then normal.

“Don’t sneak up on us like that!” Sanji complained, aiming a kick at Law that he easily dodged.

“I wasn’t trying to, but what are you even doing?” Law worries for forgotten for just a moment.

“We just wanted to warn him about the storm.” Chopper admitted guiltily. “We know he isn’t apart of our crew anymore but still…”

That deer had a much bigger heart than most people he knew. “I will tell him.”

Chopper looked up at him with big eyes. “Really you will?”

“Sure,” Law acted like he was doing them a favor and he didn’t already have that idea. “It's definitely better than whatever the two of you were about to do.” He smirked at Sanji as he just scoffed in annoyance.

“Yeah sure fine, it's not like we really care or anything.” Sanji lit a cigarette trying to play it cool.

“Never mind that, what is going on?” He asked urgently. “Everyone is saying you guys shot the mayor! Is Robin okay?”

He could sense them both tense as they processed the question. “Robin is…” Chopper started but he looked like he didn’t have the heart to finish.

“We don’t know where Robin is.” Sanji admitted.

“What do you mean!?” He grabbed the front of Sanji’s suit and the other didn’t even try to resist. “She couldn’t have just disappeared! I was barely gone for a day! What happened!?”

“We don’t know, we have been searching everywhere.” He defended himself without meeting Law’s eyes.

“Well search harder!” He was yelling now, he didn’t care.

“We are trying but it's a little hard with our faces plastered everywhere and the entire town looking for us. Why do you think Chopper and I are the only ones out?”

Law had noticed Sanji’s face was absent from the photograph, no one would recognize Chopper as anything more than an animal in that form. 

Law let go of him clenching his fists. “I trusted her with you.” He grit his teeth. “And what is Luffy doing? Sitting around and hiding?” 

Sanji took another drag of his cigarette fixing his clothes. “I am sure our idiot captain is doing anything but that, despite our warnings.”

“He better be.” He mumbled as he turned his back on the pair. He had nothing left to say to them, he just needed to warn Usopp then he could try to find Robin on his own. She couldn't have just disappeared, she had to be somewhere around here, and Law was going to find her.

He would do what he promised first. He left the two of them and shambled over to the ship. “A bad storm is coming and you have to leave.” He called over to where Usopp was hanging by a rope with some boards and nails.

He squawked in alarm at the voice dropping a few of the nails he had in his hand. “Damn it Law stop scaring me! Anyway I will just get her fixed up, then I can just ride out the storm on her.”

“It's a bad storm Nose-ya, if you stay here you are going to die.” He said simply, there wasn’t time for sugar coating it.

“I will not abandon her here alone!” He yelled stubbornly nailing a few more planks to the boat. 

Law just groaned, putting his hand on his face. He didn't have time for this, there was still time before the storm, and he needed to look for Robin. If the stupid idiot was still here later, Law would just shambles him away. Right now, there were more important things to focus on than a beta with a death wish. 

Chapter Text

Law did not understand how he had gotten here, well maybe he did but he was still annoyed at the situation. When the storm was about to hit, he had gone back to force Usopp to leave the Merry only to find he wasn’t the first one there. Some weird blue haired man in a speedo was in the middle of threatening to kidnap him. He felt like he should probably just ignore the situation, it's not like he owed the man anything, still there was something inside him that just couldn't walk away. 

He shambled himself beside the blue haired man, his sword already drawn. “Just what exactly do you think you are doing?”

He seemed surprised at his presence, but he raised his hands in surrender. “Woah hey brother! Let's calm down! I didn’t come here to fight any omegas.” That was the wrong thing to say, and Law raised his sword higher.

“L-Law?” Usopp yelled in surprise before recovering quickly. “Uh yes, I mean Law there you are! Thank you for helping your captain!”

Law tore his eyes away from the man he was threatening to level an unamused look at Usopp. 

“Look I don’t want any trouble but uhhh you both should come with me anyway, unless you have a better place to ride out the storm. That boat of yours is going to sink out here if you leave her.”

Usopp went around to stand by Law. “We agree to your terms but just keep your hands to yourself or you will have to deal with my second mate here!”

Law didn’t have time to argue before the three of them were taking the Merry upstream and into this warehouse under a bridge. Law was sure they couldn’t trust these people but since he didn’t have any better ideas he was playing along. He thought he would have to be on guard with them but to his surprise when Usopp told him his story they all started crying. What kind of thugs were these? To his credit Usopp seemed as surprised at Law at the waterworks.

It was interesting to hear what happened between Usopp and the Strawhats though, until this point, he had only known there was a falling out over the ship, but he hadn’t been privy to the details. 

“What the heck is wrong with these nitwits?” Usopp asked Law quietly, but he just shrugged, making sure to keep an eye on them. Maybe they were just crying and acting like idiots to get them to lower their defenses?

“Anyway you get the just of it right? The Strawhats are no longer my friends, they are in my past so your whole kidnapping idea wouldn't have worked anyway.” Usopp explained to them, turning his attention back to the ship.

“It's just so sad!” The blue haired man proclaimed with tears still in his eyes. “Maybe I will just have to sing about it!?”

Law pulled out his sword before he could play a note on the guitar he somehow had produced. “Do not.”

The man Law now knew as Franky turned his attention to him now. “So what's your deal?” Law narrowed his eyes and was just about to tell him to fuck off when Usopp interrupted.

“Well Law here agreed to join my crew after I bravely saved him from an evil warlord in Alabasta!”

Law quickly turned his sword on Usopp who jumped back making a squawking sound. “I will actually kill you.” he threatened him.

“Ahhh sorry sorry!” He apologized in rapid succession trying to get away from his long sword.

“I was working for a warlord, Strawhats defeated him and as an apology for fucking up my life I was a passenger on their boat for a few Islands, nothing more nothing less. I certainly never agreed to join anyone's crew.” Franky looked like he was studying him, the two omegas with box haircuts were looking at him curiously as well. He was kind of surprised they seemed so attached to each other seeing as the man was a beta himself.

“Hmmm I see, well if you need a place to stay for a bit you can always stay with us.” Franky offered. 

“Oh why, like being surrounded by omegas?” He hissed at him, but he just waved him off.

“Nah nothing like that, I just know how hard it can be for y'all out there. Especially with some of those asshole alphas running around.” Law had prepared to say something biting back at him, but the offer threw him off. Law studied him closely trying to figure out what the catch was. “Don’t believe me? That's fair, you don’t really look like someone who has relied on the kindness of others.”

“Didn’t you beat him up earlier today?” He gestured over to Usopp.

The man waved them off again. “Yeah, but that was earlier, this is now.” 

Law’s jaw was slightly open as he took this all in. He really didn’t understand this man. 

“I know let's have some tea!” One of the omegas announced before they both went into another room. Normally Law would protest but something warm to drink actually sounded really good right about now. When they came back Law made sure to scan it with his powers before taking a sip. To his surprise there really wasn’t anything wrong with it, if these people weren’t trying to poison him why were they being so nice?

They called over to Usopp to get him to join but he just continued his work on the ship now ignoring them. “Seems like he might be still upset about earlier.”

Usopp sighed, stopping his motions for a moment. “Look there isn’t a point in holding a grudge so let's just… drop it.” He continued his hammering.

“Ahh I see… well then you should join up too! We could always use more people and since Law here already agreed to join-”

“Excuse me what?” Why was everyone just assuming he was joining their crew?!

“Forget it!” Usopp called over, clearly annoyed at the assumption as well. “I may not be a Strawhat anymore, but I am still a pirate, got it?”

He could see the tears in the blue man’s eyes again and suddenly the guitar was back out. “You have moved me to song! This one is about the pirate’s code!” He strummed it a few times as Law pointed his sword at him again. 

“I seriously will kill you!” He threatened but the man just laughed it off though much to Law’s relief he put the guitar back down. 

“Sorry, sorry I am just concerned that's all, just thinking about both of your futures.” He explained and he actually did seem worried for some reason.

“My future is none of your concern.” Usopp snapped.

“Nor is mine.” Law echoed.

“Shouldn’t you be more concerned about other things? Like I don’t know the storm?” Usopp was clearly trying to get off the subject and Law was grateful for it.

“Ehhh not really, we are totally safe here, some areas will flood but not here. Speaking of which, your ship will be safe here too if you want to keep it here.”

This seemed to take the wind out of his sails, his anger disappearing as he looked at the blue haired man in surprise. “Oh uhhh thank you.”

Franky started to explain more about the city and how it floats, when he got to the sea train though he could see his eyes begin to light up. Law could tell there was something more behind it but it wasn’t any of his business, so he just drank his tea as the two of them continued to talk. 

“Hey, I got a question for you brother, what do you plan on doing after you fix that ship?”

Law sucked in a breath, he could just tell this was going to end badly. Usopp was clearly very sensitive about the Merry. 

“Uhh well lets see. I want to go on adventures together, sail around a bit before heading back to our home in the East Blue! I know we didn’t get to sail around the world or anything, but we made it all the way to the Grandline and that is still pretty impressive and-.”

“Nope, sorry, not going to happen, you can’t make it all the way back to the East Blue, it's too far away.” he set down his teacup going over to the ship. “I took a close look at her when I was bringing her up earlier and well… that ship is at the end of her life. I am an expert in the demolition business, and I can tell these types of things. I suggest you dismantle her, she won't make it very far otherwise.”

“W-what?! Th-that's ridiculous!” Usopp seemed very taken back but Law wasn’t too surprised by the assessment. The Merry looked bad even to his eyes and he wasn’t an expert.

“I could even help you do it if you want.” He said casually cracking his knuckles.

“Are you crazy?” Usopp whispered almost to himself. It seemed the other had really gotten under his skin. Then he found his confidence because before long he was yelling again. “STAY BACK YOU HEAR!” He pulled out his slingshot. “I WON'T LET YOU GET ANYWHERE NEAR HER!”

“Calm down, I am just offering to help.”

This seemed to have little effect on him. “Just get away from her! The Merry is my ship!”

“That's where you're wrong, that old girl isn’t a ship anymore.” He put his sunglasses on, and Law wondered if he was trying to look cool. “Listen before I asked you what you wanted to do once you fixed her, if you had said you wanted to go sink with her then I wouldn't have said anything but… she will never make it back to the East Blue, so unfortunately, I will have to stop you here brother. That ship is at her end, regardless of if you want to admit it or not. I don’t even think she could make it to the next island. A ship's purpose is to travel the sea and when she no longer can fulfill that purpose well, then she is no longer a ship.”

Before Law could even register what was happening Franky reached down grabbing a part of the Merry and pulled it right off. Law was a bit in awe of his strength but that was drowned out by Usopp’s yelling. Then Law watched as the man grabbed Usopp swinging him around before throwing him hard into the water. 

As he stood there with Kikoku in his hands he debated if it was worth intervening or not. I mean the man was clearly strong and could put up a bit of a fight but from what Law had seen he didn’t think it would be too hard to actually take him out. That being said, Franky also didn’t seem like he was actually trying to hurt Usopp, more like he was trying to get him to see reason. To his relief Usopp soon crawled out of the water and Law thought he looked like he was crying though he couldn't tell with the water dripping off of him. He said nothing though just going over to where Franky had thrown the piece of the Merry before trying to grab it and drag it back. The piece was clearly too heavy for him but he somehow managed to get it up onto his shoulders.

Watching the truly pathetic sight, Law took pity on him, putting Kikoku away and shambling the piece back onto the boat. Usopp looked at him with a strange emotion in his eye and nodded at him before going back and continuing to try to fix the ship. He heard him start to whisper his apologies to the boat as he was working.

Law truly didn’t know what to do in this situation. This man was clearly having a hard time letting go of something important to him that was dying. It was like he saw the boat as a person, a person who was being taken away from him. It was a feeling that Law was familiar with, and it was making him unusually sympathetic at the moment.

“Enough! You saw what she looked like underwater right?! The keel is broken right down the middle! The outer panels are slipping, not to mention the frame is shot! With a hull like that the first wave would rip her apart! You think that a complete amateur like you can just grab a hammer and-”

Usopp kicked the box of nails over leveling a truly scary look at Franky. “YOU SHUT YOUR DAMN MOUTH! I DON'T WANT TO HEAR ANOTHER WORD OUT OF YOU!!!” He was yelling but Law could tell he was even closer to crying. He reminded him a bit of when he was younger, he had gotten so angry the first time he was faced with death. Law watched in sympathy as the man fell to his knees crying. “Besides I… I already knew.” He whispered, tears still falling. 

“Wha- what did you say?” It seemed Franky was surprised by the sudden turn the conversation had taken.

“In my heart I… I already knew… I knew it all along.” It was then he started to cry in earnest. “I knew Merry was at the end of her life!” The tears kept flowing. “I knew when the assessment came I just… I couldn't… I knew then that what I saw that day in Skypea really happened.”

Law tilted his head in interest. He wasn’t aware of a lot of what happened on that island, being as he was incapacitated for most of it. 

“At first, I thought I was dreaming and there was no way it could be real but one foggy night I… I heard the banging of a hammer, and it was coming in the direction of the ship. I thought maybe it could have been Law or something but when I got there, I crept closer and… I mean the fog was thick and I was sure I saw someone striking away with a wooden mallet with a raincoat on or something. Then the next morning we saw that the ship had been repaired, but I knew it couldn't have been Law because whoever had fixed her knew how the ship used to look. She was still in rough condition, but she was still the same old Merry she had been before. I swear that night I-I heard a voice, I don't know if it was actually someone speaking or if it was just in my head but… they told me not to worry and that they would carry everyone for a little bit longer… I know it sounds ridiculous, but I think it was an incarnation of the Merry… she knew that she was dying and so she appeared in that form to tell us, she wanted to reassure us that it would be alright.”

He could tell the other was trying to stop his tears now. “I am sure you think I am entirely out of my mind, don’t you? Well, I don’t care you don't have to believe me!” The weird thing was though, Law did believe him. When he was on the ship, especially when he had been going through his heat it was like he felt another's presence there sometimes. It was always calm and comforting, never making him feel uncomfortable. 

“I believe you.” He found himself saying before he could stop himself. The beta turned to him shocked, but he could tell he was thankful.

“Well, if I believe it or not it doesn't really matter but what you described well, it sounds like you saw a Klabautermann.”

They both turned to Franky in confusion. “A Klaba- kalaba-what?” The sniper asked calming down a bit.

“A Klabautermann, it's an old legend passed down by sailors. It's a very particular type of fairy, it only dwells on ships that are treated with great care. It is said to wear a raincoat and carry a wooden mallet in its hands. It's also said that times when the vessel is in danger it would run around and warn everyone. I have heard they can help sailors in other ways too, but this is the first time I have ever heard someone outright say they have seen one. This ship must have received so much love she made sure she would carry you to the next island. I mean just think about it, she must have been so loved and happy if she appeared to reassure you like that. She had a good life.”

It seemed that his words had gotten through to the sniper and he turned around putting his hand on the ship starting to cry again. “Merry… I see so it was you… you made those repairs, and you spoke to me back then.”

There was still one question that was unanswered, and Franky seemed to be the one to voice it. “Tell me though, if you knew the ship was done for, why did you start a big fight with your crew?”

He dipped his nose down, refusing to look at them. “Its-its not that simple.” Law was very interested in the answer when the bell by the door began to jingle.

“Someone is at the door?” One of the boxy omegas asked seemingly confused.

“Yeah, I would assume it was our friends but… why would they come the long way around?” 

“That is odd…” One of the omegas confirmed.

As Law looked at the door he got a bad feeling, he didn’t know why but he knew whoever was on the other end of that door was trouble. Law drew his sword as they went over to let whoever was there in as Franky continued to talk to Usopp. 

“I think what you should do is go back to your friends.” The man suggested. He was clearly still trying to help.

“It's not that simple,” Usopp explained, “I challenged a captain to a duel. It would be impossible to go back.”

Law tore his gaze away from the door for a moment. “Don’t be dumb, Luffy-ya would forgive you.”

Usopp looked at him unsure. “You really think so?”

“Of course, he is an idiot.”

“But what about the ship?” He still seemed hesitant.

Franky sat back down on his couch. “Just leave her here with me, okay? I will take care of her in a way you would approve of problem solved.” It was clear Usopp’s story had moved the man. It was weird to think he had gone from trying to kidnap him to trying to force him to go back to his friends. Law really didn't understand him, or maybe he just didn't understand people in general? As the two of them started to argue about the ship again Law turned his attention back to the door. He was just getting such a bad feeling about whatever was behind it. 

As the omega girls opened the door in a flash, they were both incapacitated, one of them was even kicked across the floor. Law tightened his grip on his sword, he didn’t know who these people were, but he knew they would be trouble. 

“I apologize for the interruption, but these two ladies weren’t letting us in.” It was some blonde woman dressed in black, she was flanked on both sides by two men with a third standing behind her with a bird on his shoulder. He could tell just from looking that he was the one to be the most concerned with.

“WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU BASTARDS DOING DOWN HERE!!!??” Franky yelled, charging at them. He tried to fight them and even succeeded in landing a few hits on a man apparently known as Blueno before he was thrown back by the man with a pigeon on his shoulder. From Franky’s confusion it seemed something really fishy was going on.

“Killing him now would put our mission in jeopardy, we need him alive.” Yeah that man was clearly in charge. 

“What did you do to piss these guys off so much?” Usopp asked in confusion, clearly scared of the newcomers.

“How dare you come down here and how dare you hit Kiwi and Mozu! Those two girls are like my sisters! How did you even find us down here anyway?!” Franky yelled getting off of the floor.

“How we found you is irrelevant, we are a part of a covert operation, we are spies for the world government.” If Law didn’t hate them before he surely did now. “I assume even you would know why we came here and what we are after.” He could feel the tension in the room. “Franky, we know the secret that you are keeping or should I say Cutty Flam.” It seemed this name meant something to the cyborg as his gaze only got more intense. “It was said that Tom’ apprentice died eight years ago and yet you're standing right here in front of us.”

Law’s instinct was to fight these men in front of him, but he hesitated. This wasn’t his fight, and he was clearly outnumbered, if Crocodile was here, he would tell him to cut his losses and leave, in fact he could almost hear him saying it now. Is that what Law should do? But this Franky guy had offered him a place to stay without a second thought, he had taken them both in and sheltered them from the storm. Could he really just turn his back on him so easily?

“What did you do to Iceberg?!” Law perked up at that. Wasn’t he the man that the Strawhats were accused of trying to kill? 

“He is dead.” The man replied simply without emotion. Franky was clearly not taking the news well. “Hand the plans over this instant, we are done playing around here.”

Law didn’t know Franky very well, but he could tell that was the last thing he was going to do. Instead, he extended his hand trying to punch the cocky jerk in front of him, but he dodged with ease basically appearing in front of him and pushing him back throwing him through a nearby wall. 

“What the hell did he just do? It was so fast I couldn’t see it happen!?” Usopp yelled in fear, but Law could see, and he knew they were in trouble. “Hey Franky are you okay?”

The man casually walked through the hole he had just made. “Oh, look at this room, a drafting room is it? I bet the blueprints are hidden in here.” He turned to the rest of his ‘team’. “Find them.” Law was correct in his assumption of that man being in charge as the others listened to him without hesitation. 

Franky looked worse for wear, but he still stood up in opposition. “Don’t you dare touch that! This place is where I grew up! Where Tom was and where the best damn shipwrights ever learned their craft! Get the hell out of here!!”

“We won't leave until we get what we are after. Make this easy on yourself and give them to us.”

“There ain't no blueprints here!” He yelled aggressively, seemingly about to attack again.

The pigeon guy nodded to the girl with blonde hair and Franky was encased in a thorn like whip, it honestly looked really painful. “It would be much simpler if you gave them to us, after all we know a lot about you, we know that you committed a serious crime eight years ago, one the world government would be eager to punish you for, just like your dear old Tom.”

“You shut up! Tom wasn’t a criminal! You don’t know what the hell you're talking about, you damn freak!” Law saw the man go back for a kick, but he had had enough of this disgusting display. Just as he was about to kick him, he switched Franky for the other man with the long nose causing him to kick him instead and freeing Franky.

“What the hell Lucci!?” Ha called out in pain rubbing his face.

Everyone seemed confused at the sudden switch, but Law didn’t give himself away. Still the alpha seemed to sense it, and his sharp eyes turned to him. “I was content to ignore your presence up till now omega but if you interfere again I will not hesitate to take you too.”

Law scoffed. “Oh how noble of you. Forgive me if I don't think four on one is a fair fight.” Usopp had his slingshot drawn at this point though Law was sure it would be pretty useless on their current company. 

“Thanks for the save brother.” Franky called weakly getting up to his feet.

“No matter, our superior wanted to talk to you, I think you may remember him.” Blueno pulled out some weird looking transponder snail and the line connected immediately.

At first whoever was on the other line was yelling about spilling hot coffee on themselves, but he quickly pulled himself together. “So Cutty Flam you are still alive? Long time no see, it's hard to imagine you managed to survive that accident. Hard to believe, but good news nonetheless.”

“Who are you, you bastard!?”

“Let's just say for the past eight years every time my scars hurt I was tortured by an unquenchable anger towards you, but as you were dead there was nothing to be done with that anger… well until now that is.”

“I said who in the hell are you!” Franky yelled again, getting in a defensive position in case they attacked.

“Don't you remember me? I am the man from Cipher Pol number 5 that arrested Tom when he was caught red handed for savagely attacking the judicial ship eight years ago!”

This seemed like it meant something to him. “You're that Spanda guy aren't you!?

“Spandam!!” The snail yelled back angrily. Law had a fleeting thought about Luffy, but it was gone quickly as he had to focus on what was before him. “I will have plenty of time to drill that into your head when you get to Enies Lobby! Get him here quickly men!”

Law tensed this was it he would have to decide if he was going to get involved or not. Another quick kick sent Franky flying and he was quickly encased in ropes again. It was clear if Law was going to fight, he would be on his own.

“STOP RIGHT THERE!” Usopp yelled, leveling his slingshot at them. It seemed he was making the choice for him.

“God damn it.” Law cursed under his breath activating a room. Fighting them right now was pointless but there was one thing they could do. “Shambles!” 

And with that Law, Franky, Usopp, and the box sisters disappeared leaving some very pissed government agents behind. 

Chapter Text

Law relaxed slightly as they got away from those government dogs, that was a fight he didn’t think he could win on his own. He still didn’t truly understand why he had gotten involved in the first place, it's not like any of this concerned him anyway. He could practically feel Crocodile's disappointment in him even though he wasn't there.

‘Always look out for yourself first’  ‘Other people are only tools’  ‘Don’t get attached’ But then again Croc broke those rules for Law somewhere along the way…

“Thanks for the save, brother!” Franky called over as Usopp got him out of his bindings. Law had switched them into a random basement far away from where they had been, there was a very low chance those spies would be able to find them there. 

“Don't mention it.” Law grumbled looking down at Kikoku. 

Franky stood up brushing himself off. “Well alright, let's get going.”

Law looked at him confused but thankfully Usopp voiced his confusion for him. “Go where exactly?”

“We have to stop those government agents!” He leaned down, picking up the two omegas and placing them in a more comfortable position.

Law rolled his eyes. “Incase you didn’t notice, they kicked your ass really easily before. I don’t think you're going to be able to do much.” 

“Yeah!” Usopp chimed in. “We don’t stand a chance against those guys! We should just stay here and hide where it is safe.”

“You guys can stay if you want but I am going. They killed my friend, and they sullied Tom’s memory, not to mention they are looking for something dangerous. I can’t just let this slide.”

Law was curious about the blueprints they were looking for, he could tell Franky, or Cutty Flam? Whatever his name was, he could tell he knew more than he was letting on. Well, if he wanted to do this that was his business, Law didn’t need to get involved anymore. 

“Hey uhh Law-bro I could use your help though.” 

Law narrowed his eyes. “No way Robo-ya. I have no wish to get involved with the government.”

The other smirked at his nickname but he continued on. “Look I am not askin’ you to fight with me, but do you think you could use that switching thing to sneak me into wherever they are hiding? Come on Law-bro! Just one little favor!” He dropped to his knees and was practically begging. Did this guy have no shame?

Law just turned his head away the best he could. “I don’t see what is in it for me.”

The man seemed to think for a moment. “Uhhh well I can give you a place to hide out and ummm oh I could even give you a ship, a small one mind you and it would be stolen but something tells me that isn't an issue for you.”

Law thought it over, a free ship would be extremely helpful. He had some money from Skypea but certainly not enough to buy an entire ship. “Fine.” He said flatly not really liking the idea.

“You can’t go and leave me here alone!” Usopp protested but Law just ignored him, it's not like he was the man’s bodyguard or anything. It was then that Law noticed something behind Franky, a crate had been opened, and a bunch of masks were falling out.

Some of those government agents may have seen his face but they didn’t seem like they had any idea who he was, it wasn’t like he had used his sword either. He could probably still hide his identity if he tried hard enough. He reached down grabbing a white fox mask with red accents and held it in his hands for a moment looking at the design before fixing it to his face.

“Are you even listening to me?” Usopp complained.

“Look,” Law said, turning to him. “I don’t care what you do, I only helped you out because I am a doctor, and I don’t like death. We aren’t friends and I am not on your crew! So come with us or stay here, but either way stop complaining about it.”

This seemed to hit home with the other and he paused looking down at where Law had taken his mask from. He stared for a moment before picking up a yellow one with a long nose and some blue markings on it. “I don’t think Usopp is brave enough for this mission but…” He put the mask on and changed his voice. “I think this is the perfect job for Sniper King!” He then started to sing some sort of theme song. Law activated his room trying to drown him out. He made it as large as he could, not worried about it being noticed in this storm. Closing his eyes he recognized a large presence of people at the docks.

“Looks like they are taking the sea train.” This only seemed to make Franky angrier. “You ready?”

“I was born ready brother!” He said flexing. Law took a deep breath trying to steel himself from dealing with all of this crazy. He would just take them down to the train, put Franky on it and then go their separate ways. 

“Shambles.” He switched them with some crates away from where most of the people were concentrated. He needed to get a full understanding of the situation before he did anything else. Law told the others to get down as he peered over the crates. It looked like there were a lot of marines present, most of which were getting on board the train but there was one person there who stood out to Law, they weren’t facing him but something about their presence just seemed so familiar. He ducked down as he saw the agents from before making their way to the train, all the other marines seemed excited about their presence so they must have been a big deal. 

Law decided to sneak a look again and that when he saw her: Robin was there, she was standing there with the marines and following them onto the train. Law felt his world freeze for a moment. What in the hell was she doing there and with all those marines!? They must have captured her, but she wasn’t wearing any handcuffs. What exactly was going on here? The government wanted her dead so there was absolutely no way that she was in this willingly, she must have been threatened by something. Is this where she had disappeared to? Law knew one thing; he could not let this go on. 

He grabbed his sword and was about to cut up all of the marines on the platform when he felt a hand on his. He was shocked as he turned and saw a familiar blonde standing there with a cigarette. “Calm down, we are going to save her.”

Law narrowed his eyes at him. “You're the ones who lost her in the first place.” He whisper-yelled at the man. The absolute nerve of him lecturing Law when this was all their fault!

“I know and so we are going to get her back.” He said simply.

“Fuck you if you think I am going to just leave this in your hands! Robin is my… is… important to me and you're delusional if you think I am going to just stand here and let the government take her!” Law would cut the blonde up too if he had to. He was not going to let the government take anyone else away from him. Law turned back around to do just that, but she was already on the train. He cursed under his breath.

“Look, I have a plan.” He tried again.

“Oh yeah and what is that?” He was sure whatever this plan was, it wasn't going to work.

“We sneak on the train, get Robin and then disconnect one of the cars. Luffy will be following us, I have no doubt and then we can make our escape.” 

“Great plan.” He said sarcastically, even though it wasn’t the worst plan he had heard.

“Do you have anything better?” Sanji challenged.

“Yeah, I go out there, cut everyone into pieces and drag Robin away and then me and her get far away from you crazy Strawhats.” He hissed.

“Okay bros let's just calm down.” The two of them both turned to glare at Franky.

“Aren’t you that asshole who stole our money?” It seemed he wasn’t going to get an answer as the train was starting to move. “Shit! We don’t have time to argue! Law just put us on top of the train!”

“Don’t tell me what to do!” He yelled but followed his instructions, not because he told him to but because he was going to do it anyway. The four of them ducked down as the train pulled out and the storm raged around them. Well Law supposed he was going to have to follow Sanji’s stupid plan, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t going to cut up every marine he came across on the way.

When they were away from any prying eyes Law sat up and drew his sword pointing it at the blonde. “Tell us what is going on right now.”

To his credit he just sighed seemingly not worried about the sword being pointed in his direction and started explaining what was happening. After he was done Law was even more pissed, but he put away his sword not needing to threaten the blonde anymore.

“There is no way she went with them willingly.” He grumbled.

Franky started crying again. “What a sad story but at least Iceberg is okay, that's a relief. Still, what are you going to do since she doesn't seem to want to go with you? It's not like you can force her.”

Law just snorted. “I don’t care what she wants, if she thinks I am going to leave this train without her she has another thing coming. I will drag her kicking and screaming just like she did to me.” Law could feel a dangerous glint in his eye, but he meant it, he would not let her continue with whatever this was.

“Hey, calm down, it's going to be alright.” Usopp said in that weird voice he was doing.

“Usopp what are you even doing here?” Sanji asked, giving him a weird look.

“Usopp? Who is that? I am Sniper King! I come from Sniper Island, and this is my trusty sidekick Kitsune!” He pointed to Law. Normally he would yell or disagree with him, but his mind was focused elsewhere.

“Uhhh sure you are…” Sanji obviously wasn’t buying it. He turned to Law and tried to talk to him in a calmer voice. “Look, I know your worried, but let's just make a plan and-”

“I don’t have to listen to you.” With that Law switched himself with some rain further down on the train. He didn’t need anyone's help, he could do this on his own. They were just wasting time back there all while Robin was in danger. It was their fault the government got their hands on her in the first place.

He walked as quietly as possible on the top of the train, he was sure that he had seen her enter one of the cars close to the front, the only issue was he saw those spies enter there with her. He expanded his room around each of the cars as he went but before he felt her familiar presence. He thought about going in there and cutting everyone up, but he calmed himself down. Crocodile had taught him not to act on his emotions, even if they were screaming at him for their blood. He had to be smart about this, he couldn’t afford to lose Robin, not after he had already lost everything else. 

He heard some commotion from the back of the train, and he smiled, this would be the perfect distraction. Much to his delight he felt a lot of people leaving the train car leaving Robin practically alone with two marines. Law smiled expanding his room, this would be easy. Instead of cutting them and leaving a mess, Law simply switched them with raindrops far away from the train, watching with glee as they fell into the ocean. He then switched himself with a pillow in the train car right across from where Robin was sitting.

“I thought that was you.” She said regarding him with a sad face.

“Yes, well since it appears your brain is now working, let's get the hell out of here.” He reached out to grab her wrist, but she pulled back.

“I can’t go with you.” He narrowed his eyes at her.

“I don’t know what is going on and I don’t care, but you are coming with me.” He didn’t understand why she was being so dumb. Did she really want to stay here?

“Law, you don’t understand.” She looked away from him, clearly struggling.

“Then make me understand.” He leaned forward giving her his full attention and shifting his mask to the side so she could see his face. “Because if you think I am leaving you here with the government you are delusional.” 

“I made a deal, a deal for the Strawhat's safety.” Law just snorted sitting back.

“You really think that's going to hold up? Besides that idiot Strawhat-ya is probably already on his way here to rescue you. I doubt your little deal will hold much weight then.” She just tightened her hands again. “Robin, you should know the government never keeps their word. Whatever they promised you they won't do, I guarantee they are just going to do anyway.”

“You don't understand, you can’t understand. You need to go, leave me here and save yourself.” She sounded so sad and so defeated, she had clearly resigned herself to this fate.

He sighed again, still looking at her. Robin had been there with him through an important part of his life. She had always been a constant calming presence for him, in some ways she was like a big sister to him even though just the thought of family still hurt. 

“I never told you where I was from, did I?” This seemed to have gotten her attention, and she was finally looking at him. “I was born in a place up north, it was called Flevance.” He heard her gasp quietly in recognition. “Much like your hometown it doesn't exist anymore.” He took a deep breath trying to push down his memories, the screams, the gun shots, the fire… “The government promised we would be okay too, they promised us a lot of things right before they came in and massacred everyone I ever knew.” He tore his eyes away from her looking across the car. “They won’t keep their word Robin, they never do. Don’t sacrifice yourself for nothing, you're worth more than that.”

“I agree!” He heard another voice chime in. They both jumped and saw Usopp on the other side of the window with what looked like octopus strapped to his hands and feet. He had tilted it up and seemed to have been listening to their conversation. Law bristled immediately not knowing how much he had overheard.

He quickly fell inside of the car but straightened himself up. “Miss Robin my name is Sniper King, and I am here to rescue you!” Law quickly put his mask back in place not wanting the other to see how emotional he had gotten.

“This Strawhat Luffy guy is already on his way here to save you, he doesn't seem like the type of person to give up easily. He knows why you left, and he is determined to get you back.”

He could tell she was struggling with what they were saying, he just needed her to listen, he so desperately needed her to listen. “I can’t I… even if there is only a slight chance they will do what they promise, I have to take it…”

Law crossed his arms sitting back in his seat. “Well, I guess I have no choice but to stay here and get captured with you then.” He felt two pairs of eyes on him now.

“D-don’t be stupid.” He could tell she was panicked.

“Robin I am either leaving here with you or I am staying with you. I will leave it up to you.” He said stubbornly. 

“You can’t mean that.”

He bunched up his fists and looked away from her, and in a small voice he admitted. “You're all I have left.” The three of them were silent until he continued. “I can’t… I won’t leave you here.”

As he finally looked back at her he could tell she was about to cry, then a few tear drops made it past her defenses. “Why do you have to make this so hard?” 

Usopp had moved next to her and had put her arm around her shoulder. “Don’t cry ma’am it will be okay!” 

It was then that the door at the end of the hall started to open. Law leaned down hiding himself but had his sword drawn. Usopp however panicked and decided to hide inside of Robin's robe. “Hey, what is going on in here?” Law could hear him walking through getting closer and closer. “Hey who are-”

He didn’t give him a chance to finish as he pounced, easily cutting the marine in pieces. He heard the man’s snail go off. “Is the prisoner secure?”

Law held up the man's head and leveled his sword at his throat before holding up the sail to his mouth. “I would choose your next words wisely.” He threatened quietly. 

He held the snail up to the man. “Y-yes the prisoner is secure.” Law quickly hung up before anything else could be added.

Law then used Tact to push the rest of the man's body into a nearby seat compartment turning his attention back to Robin. “It's time to go.” He said standing up and offering his hand to her, Usopp had crawled out of her cloak at this point looking at the severed body parts in horror.

She looked pensively at him and his offer, Law thought she might have even taken it but then Sanji and Franky decided to come busting in the room along with those CP9 assholes. Law had had about enough of them and the government. Robin used the distraction to throw Law and Usopp across the car and by Sanji and Franky.

“Do my words mean nothing to you! Leave me here and go!!!” Law just frowned back at her. Like hell he was going to listen to her, it wasn't like she listened to him when she dragged him on to the Strawhat’s ship!

He was about to say as much when Usopp yelled. “Franky detach the 3rd car!” Franky did as he was told and suddenly the whole car was filled with smoke.

“Everybody run!!! Kitsune now!” It took Law a moment to realize that he was talking to him but once he did he didn’t waste any more time, switching a surprised Robin with something that was near him on the car and dragging her further into the smoke. As the car was starting to gain some distance, Blonde struck out with her thorn whip and attached the car again. Law would have detached them, but Robin had started to struggle against him, and it was currently taking all of his focus to restrain her without actually hunting her. Blueno was also now trying to push the cars back together, Sanji lashed out trying to land a kick on him, but he just took it with no problem. Reluctantly Law let go of Robin drawing his sword and cutting the thorns however as soon as he did that, he felt multiple hands grab him pushing him to the floor and grabbing his own hands uselessly behind his back.

“I told you not to save me!” She was towering over doing her best to glare at Law, but he had known her long enough to see there was no bite in it, only fear. She was afraid for him, for them… but why? 

“I don’t have to listen to you!” Law called back stubbornly.

“Screw it, you Strawhats are really loyal to your friends, and I can respect that! Might as well help out!” With that Franky used his superhuman strength to literally rip the car in half separating them further from the agents, only Franky was stuck in the other car with them. 

“Robo-ya don’t be an idiot!” He yelled though he was restrained. 

“Robin,” Sanji started trying to get her to see reason. “Please just come back, we know why you left, there is no reason to sacrifice yourself!”

She clearly didn’t want to listen to them anymore. “You don’t know anything! You need to just leave me here!”

Law was struggling as hard as he could against her hands but he paused when he saw a clear door opening in the back of the car. “You should listen to her, all of you would be powerless in the face of a buster call. You would be completely obliterated.” It was Blueno, he clearly had some door devil fruit power.

A buster call! How dare they threaten her with the very thing that killed her people! It made Law feel sick to his stomach. He would make these government assholes pay! “You sick bastards! How fucking dare you!!” He yelled.

The man reached out attacking Sanji with some sort of vertical slash causing him to fly backwards to the other part of the car.

“It's useless to try to save her, there is no way you omegas even stand a chance.” He was looking at Law directly, but Law wasn’t having it.

“Robin let me go!” The man stepped towards him and Robin but to both of their surprise Usopp stepped in front of them.

“I-I will be your opponent!” His sling shot was drawn and pointed right at him. 

The man suddenly disappeared through the door and for a small moment Law hoped he might have retreated but he appeared just moments later behind the sniper throwing him too to the other side of the car. Before he could get much closer Sanji was back and ready to try again though the result was the same. 

He stepped over to Law and he just glared right back at him, though he didn't know how effective it was through the mask. He braced himself for an attack but Robin was in between them now. “I did what you asked and I came with you willingly, leave them alone! I will honor my part of the deal, just please don’t hurt them.” He could hear the desperation in her voice, and it was only causing him more stress.

“They are the ones attacking me.”

“Then let's leave before they get up.” She tried again. He looked like he was going to listen to her but his eyes were still on Law.

“Our deal was I wouldn’t harm any of your crew but this man isn’t apart of the Strawhats. He wasn’t with them in the mansion, and he wasn’t on any of the wanted posters.”

“He is a part of the crew, and he is a part of the deal. If you hurt him or try to take him, I won't come with you.”

“Robin stop being stupid an-mphph.” One of her hands came up and covered Law’s mouth under the mask.

He didn’t look like he wanted to agree but he turned back towards the door. “Fine, if you come with us willingly, I suppose that is enough.” They both walked over to the door and he gestured for her to walk in first. 

“Robin wait!” Usopp yelled just before she could leave. “Robin, you aren’t allowed to leave the crew! You never got your captain's permission and so no matter what you can always believe in Luffy! He will come, just have faith in that!” She looked sadly at them all one more time, her gaze lingering on Law before she silently walked through the door leaving them all behind.

Law felt his heart break just a little bit more in that moment. Robin was going to die and there was nothing he could do about it; she would be just another person the government has taken away from him. Why was he always too weak to stop it?

“It's useless, she won’t come back with you.” He looked down at them with something almost like pity in his eyes. “Do you know the story of Ohara? Do you even understand what a buster call is?”

Law started shouting insults behind the hand over his mouth, but the guy continued to explain to the others just how horrible a buster call really was and the amount of total destruction it caused. Law knew what a buster call was but it was something else to hear it from the mouth of someone that worked for the government.

“You bastards!” Sanji yelled for Law as he tried to attack the man again, but he simply went through the door leaving them behind. As soon as he was gone and the train continued to move far away Robin dropped her hold on Law causing him to sink to the floor. 

He was useless, Robin had saved him after Alabasta and he couldn't even return the favor. Because of him she was going to die. This was why Crocodile always told him not to form attachments to people, calling it a weakness, because he knew it hurt too much to lose them. It was easier to be on your own, but Law was weak. That's why everything he cared about was always taken from him. He leaned against the train car wall bringing his knees up to his chest. He had failed: He failed to protect his family, he failed to protect Cora-san, he failed to protect Crocodile and now he had failed to protect Robin. Vaguely he could hear Usopp and Sanji talking but he just tuned them out as he sunk deeper into the darkness.

Chapter Text

Law was sitting in the sea train car trying his best not to spiral further down into his thoughts. He was thankful he was wearing the mask because he didn’t want anyone to see the expressions he was making under it. He was vaguely aware when the other train was getting closer, but it just made his heart clench a little bit more. The last person he wanted to be around right now was Luffy. He may have lost Robin first, but Law had failed even worse. Still, it didn’t seem to matter what Law wanted because soon he was being dragged by Sanji over to the other train.

He made sure to sit away from everyone and thankfully Luffy didn’t seem to notice him at first though that didn't last long. To Law’s surprise though he was just standing there glaring at him from across the train. It made Law feel… odd, like his stomach was hurting. He probably blamed Law for letting Robin get away, it was his fault after all. 

It was then that Luffy stomped over to him, his glare intensifying. “I don’t like you!” He proclaimed loudly, clearly talking to him. All of the remaining Strawhats looked over at him shocked. Law just stared back and tried to ignore that stabbing feeling in his stomach.

“Why do you think I care?” He bit back. He didn’t care what this dumb alpha thought of him, not even a little bit!

Luffy didn’t seem deterred. “I don't like that you smell like Torao! Torao is the only one allowed to smell like that!”

There were very few times in his life that he had been speechless, but this was one of them. He simply stared back at Luffy in disbelief. He was mad because he thought he was someone else? Did he seriously not recognize him under this mask? 

Nami looked over at him in further disbelief. “Uhhh Luffy you know thats-”

“Hey, that's Torao’s hat! Give that to me!” He tried to grab it, but Law moved back quickly, still confused.

“Are you an idiot?” Law said when his brain finally caught back up to the situation.

“All I know is that hat belongs to my future mate and I won’t let you keep it!” There was complete silence around the train car before everyone broke out into various yelling.

“WHAT!?” Chopper and Sniper king yelled.

“Luffy you can't just say that!” Nami said hitting him on the head.

“What is wrong with our captain?” Sanji sighed, shaking his head while Franky’s family just blabbed about true love.

Law however just stared at the bone headed alpha having a flashback to something he said in Alabasta. 

Torao is not just some omega! Torao is going to be my mate! 

A part of him had thought at the time he was just posturing to Crocodile, but it seemed it was something the young alpha really wanted. That whole idea was just something he couldn’t wrap his brain around.

After Luffy recovered from the hit he started trying to grab his hat again. Having enough, Law switched him with Zoro who was much quieter and more pleasant to be around.

“No fair you have Torao’s power too!” He complained, flinging himself back over.

“Captain, even you aren’t that dumb.” Zoro complained, not moving from his new position.

Law just sighed and moved his mask because apparently, he was. As soon as Luffy saw his face he lit up, all previous anger fading away into excitement.

“TORAO!!!” He tried to hug Law, but Law just pushed him away with a sheathed Kikoku. “Why didn’t you just say it was you shishi?”

“I am not in the mood for you Luffy-ya.” He said firmly, he really wasn’t. He didn’t have the energy to focus on… whatever this thing was between them, not after what had just happened.

“Don’t worry Torao, we will save Robin!” He said happily, as if reading his mind. He was still trying to get next to him. Law stood up, moving Kikoku and letting Luffy fall to the ground.

He stepped further away trying to create some distance. “You don't know that Luffy-ya.”

Luffy was completely undeterred and popped up next to him shortly after. “I do know it!”

Law tried to look away, but he paused when he felt a warm hand on his shoulder. “Torao… trust me. I will get Robin back.” The look in his eyes was so fierce and so sincere it eased something in Law, if only slightly. Maybe there was hope… if only a little bit. "It's not too late."

“Whatever.” he mumbled his mind catching up to him as he continued to move away from the alpha. “Do you even have a plan?” He asked even though he was pretty sure he knew the answer.

“Yeah! Go in there and beat them up and take Robin back!” Law sighed, he knew there was no point in asking. Luffy was just going to charge headfirst like normal… but maybe he could use that to his advantage.

He tried to stay close to the back of the train as everything played out, making his own plan for what he would do when they got inside. It was in his best interest to fade into the background; he wasn't exactly a ‘team player’. 

After an extremely bumpy and unorthodox entrance Luffy ran immediately into the base yelling about Robin and drawing all of the attention onto him, just as he thought he would. Law fixed his mask and before anyone could turn to him, he switched himself with some rubble and immediately started to quietly move around the base. 

It wasn’t very hard to make it far, with Luffy drawing a lot of the attention and the big group drawing the rest. He heard some explosions and a lot of gun fire, but he didn’t care. He had one more shot at this, and he would not screw it up. For some reason Luffy’s words had really gotten to him and Law realized that he was right. It wasn’t over until she walked through those doors. If Luffy was crazy enough to lead a charge into a government base to save Robin, then Law would follow him, but he wasn’t going to work with everyone else.

He made it to the top of the building across from the moat before Luffy, he was about to open up a room and switch to the other side when he felt something next to him. Instinctively he jumped back glaring over his shoulder. He was glad he did because a fist implanted itself in the ground right where he had been. 

Standing there, coming out of a door he had made out of thin air, was that Blueno asshole. “Come to lose to us again?” He mocked stepping fully out of the door. This man may have been cocky and have a harder body then normal but that wasn’t going to stop Law. From what he had observed it may have been a haki technique but it didn’t turn his body black so he was pretty sure his devil fruit would work on him. Besides, as far as the man in front of him was concerned he had only seen Law switch people around, he hadn’t actually used his devil fruit to its full potential.

“I don’t think I ever lost to you in the first place.” He bit back unsheathing his sword.

The man simply laughed seemingly unbothered. “Oh, but you will, little omega. You know the government gives us extra rewards for bringing in your kind.”

Law felt sick to his stomach at those words, as if he couldn't hate the government more than he already did. “Tch I will enjoy wiping that smirk off of your face.”

The man tried to strike at Law, but he easily dodged, he may be faster than the average person, but he wasn’t faster than Law. After dodging a few times, he felt that he had gotten a good sense for the man, he struck out hitting his body with his sword but not cutting through it. Just as he thought, he had made it harder but with his devil fruit he should still be able to cut it. The man was however completely oblivious to the fact that Law was just feeling him out and started to gloat again.

“You will never be able to cut me with skills like that. You might as well just surrender now, maybe you can have some time with your precious friend before we ship you off.”

Law didn’t dignify him with a response simply inhaling deeply to calm himself down, he could do this. Predictably the man opened up his door and disappeared. Law activated his room and closed his eyes, though he had an idea of where he was going to appear. 

Law readied himself as he felt the door appear behind him waiting just until the man was about to strike him then switched the two of them. As he punched the ground Law used his devil fruit to cut his body in half. He could see the surprise on his face, and he wasted no time in cutting him up into smaller pieces to make it harder to put himself back together. 

He sauntered over and picked up his surprised decapitated head. “What was that about me not being able to cut you?” The man simply glared from where he was being held uselessly. “Awww did a little omega beat you in battle? How pathetic!” He spat on his face and was about to say something else when he was interrupted by yelling.

Law looked over unamused as Luffy made his appearance onto the rooftop. “Oh, hey Torao! You beat me up here shishi.” He bounded over seemingly just noticing the dismembered agent. “Oh cool you already beat up one of them! Torao is so strong!” He actually looked really impressed. “Save the pigeon guy for me though okay!?”

Law just sighed throwing the head carelessly across the rooftop. “Sure whatever.” He then looked at Luffy a bit more critically. “You look exhausted, you sure you are up for this?” Law was feeling a bit tired himself, but he was trying his best not to show it.

“Sure am but maybe now would be a good time for food!” To Law’s surprise he started to pull food out of his pockets and began to eat like he hadn’t seen food in weeks. Suddenly though he stopped and held out a piece of meat to Law. “Here Torao you have to eat too.”

Law looked at him critically then down to the piece of meat in his hand. “No thanks.”

Luffy just waved it in front of him again. “Come on, I can see you're tired. You need to be in top shape to save Robin right?”

“Why do you care?” He tried to deflect.

Luffy just looked at him confused. “Torao do you really think I don’t care about you?”

Law did not want to open up that line of dialog, so he just took the piece of meat, moving his mask slightly, and bit into it turning away. He actually was starting to feel some of his energy come back to him, not that he would admit it.

Before too long it seemed everyone else had caught up with them, Law was just about to switch them all over into the next building when the agents and Robin made their appearance on the balcony before them. He wasn’t surprised to see the agents taunting them, he recognized their bosses voice from the snail earlier. Spandam he thought his name was. There was just something about him that made Law’s hand twitch to decapitate him.

It seemed Robin wasn’t too pleased with their arrival either and she started to call over to them out of desperation. “Please you have to get out of here! You can’t survive a buster call! I can't lose my friends that I looked so hard for! I couldn’t bear it so please just go!” She was thrashing around desperately. “One day you will see me as a burden, and you will be forced to betray me or throw me away and that is what scares me the most! I would rather just die here and save myself all of that pain!”

It broke Law’s heart to listen to those words. How could she ever think that she would be a burden to Law? Robin was one of the only people in his life that he had now, one of the only people he still dared to care about. Instead of making him want to leave her words only steeled his resolve to save her. It seemed it had a similar effect on the rest of them.

“If that's Robin’s enemy then I know what to do.” Luffy said full of confidence before turning to Usopp. “Sniper King, shoot down that flag!” 

Law turned to him in shock, not expecting that. Usopp didn’t miss a beat pulling back his sling shit and setting the flag a flame.  Law watched the symbol burn with a satisfaction he hadn’t felt in a long time. Maybe there was something special about this alpha, someone who would declare war on the very entity Law hated so much.

“You are all going to die! You must be insane!” Spandam yelled from across the gap clearly in disbelief at Luffy’s boldness. Maybe Luffy was crazy but... maybe that wasn't such a bad thing.

“BRING IT ON!!!!” Luffy yelled completely undeterred. “ROBIN I WANT TO HEAR YOU SAY IT!!!” Law could do nothing but stare at the alpha in awe for the moment as he continued his declarations. “TELL ME YOU WANT TO LIVE!!” It was like a spell had fallen over him, and Law couldn’t look away. He knew in that moment that they would not fail, they couldn't, not with him by their side. As if to prove him correct Robin broke and yelled back.

“I WANT TO LIVE!! TAKE ME AWAY FROM HERE! I WANT TO GO WITH YOU!!!” Those words were music to his ears even if they were said in such a broken tone. Law didn’t know what his future would hold but he knew he would not be leaving here without her, not a chance in hell.

“Good luck getting over here! You are doomed to fail! You will all die here!!” Spandam yelled out.

Law just smirked, getting ready to switch them all across when something absolutely horrible happened. Luffy just grabbed all of them and jumped off of the building, Law was so flustered at being shoved up against the alpha and other Strawhats that he momentarily forgot to switch them and that was when things got even worse. A train burst out of the building and was coming right towards them. Luffy just laughed as they fell/were impaled on the train carrying them towards the building. Just before they hit, Law managed to get a hold of himself and switched himself into the building and into the hallway next to the room they crashed into. Law took back everything good he had thought about that alpha, he was a moron, and he was going to be the death of him one of these days! 

Chapter Text

Law was getting really fed up with this whole thing, especially when the government spies said they were going to split up the keys causing the Strawhats to go into a panic trying to track them down. That didn’t matter to Law though, he didn’t need a key to get the cuffs off. He might not be able to cut the cuffs themselves with them being seastone but he had another plan. That was why when everyone started rushing off around him, he managed to stay calm. 

He opened a room and simply observed the situation the best he could, waiting for his opportunity. It didn’t take too long until it presented itself to him in the form of Spandam taking Robin by himself with only one of the spies with him. The man himself didn’t seem to be anything special, and Law was very confident in his ability to overpower him. He noticed that the one there guarding him was Lucci, the one he had promised to let Luffy beat up. He didn’t really care about that sort of thing, but he also didn’t feel like dealing with the alpha’s whining later either. So instead of switching with something by them he switched with the man himself.

Spandam let out a shriek and tried to draw his sword, but Law pretty easily cut him up without much of a delay. Robin just stood there shocked looking at him, as if she was unable to process what was happening. “Give me your hands.” He demanded.

Silently she obeyed, holding out her hands. Law cut them off one by one before sliding the cuff off and reattaching them.

“You fools! You will never get out of here alive! When I get my hands on you, you will wish you had never been born! You will rue the day that you-” Law kicked his dismembered head across down the hall not wanting to listen to his ramblings anymore. 

“You- you came for me? Even after I yelled at you and tried to tell you to go and held you back you still-” Law cut her off too, not by kicking her though. Instead he rushed forward pulling her into a hug. He could feel her tears on his neck and soaking into his shirt, but he didn’t care. She was here and she was safe, and they were going to get out of here together. 

He pulled back pulling his mask to the side so they could look at each other. “Don’t be an idiot. Did you really think I would leave you behind? After everything we have been through together?” 

She smiled sadly over at him. “No one has ever fought for me before.”

Law just scoffed. “Yeah well, I am right now… and also those stupid Strawhats are too. They never gave up on you even when I almost did. I will deny ever saying this, but they are… good for you.” He turned away from her, adjusting the mask back in place. 

Before he could walk away she reached out to hug him again ignoring his grumbling. “Thank you.” She said simply before releasing him. 

“Yeah well… whatever. Don’t get used to it cause if you pull this stunt again, I'm not helping to get you back.” He tried to deflect.

She just smiled back at him with a warmth that hadn’t been there before. “Of course.”

He huffed and was about to reassess the situation when a voice brought him out of his thoughts. “How cute, the little omega came for his friend.” Law barely had time to block the incoming attack. Much to his dismay he turned to see that Lucci person as the one attacking him. Law didn’t really want to get bogged down in a fight here, he had Robin now he needed to go.

“LUCCI HELP ME!!” Spandam yelled from down the hallway. He could see the confusion in the alpha’s face as his brain tried to make sense of the scattered body parts. That distraction was all Law needed and he soon switched the two of them for something else in the base leaving the spy behind.

Robin accepted their new surroundings with little issue, used to Law moving the two of them around at this point. “We need to move but I am not really sure where.” He said out loud. “Normally I would say that we should go back the way we came in, but I don’t know how good of an option that would be.” The two of them stood there for a moment going over their options before the speakers around them started to blare with that annoying man’s voice.

“ATTENTION EVERYONE! NICO ROBIN HAS ESCAPED!!!”

Great, Lucci must have put him back together faster than anticipated. “I will give anyone an immediate promotion who can bring her or the masked fox omega to me!” Law sighed, this would make things more difficult. “Now Nico Robin I am speaking directly to you.” He could see the trepidation pass across her face. “A buster call is coming and it is all your fault! Your friends will die here and it is all because of you!!!” Law regretted not permanently severing the man’s limbs from his body.

“Don’t listen to him.” Law demanded seeing the fear on her face. He couldn’t blame her for it though, he knew this was the type of thing she saw in her nightmares. As she looked at him her eyes were slightly unfocused. He grabbed her by the shoulder squeezing just a bit to ground her. “Robin, I will not let anything happen to them!”

“But the buster call… you can’t even imagine the destruction that-”

“SCREW THAT!” He yelled in anger, not at her of course but at the government. How dare they do this to her! How dare they destroy people's homes and take everything away from them. “Robin, I am not going to let anyone else die!” He didn’t know where that came from, but he meant it. He would not let the government take anything else from them.

He could see the focus coming back into her eyes. If going back the way they came wasn’t going to work, then Law had a different plan. “I have a plan, and it will work.” He sighed knowing what the first part would have to be. “Let's go get Luffy-ya.”

She put her own hand on his shoulder. “I trust you.” Law opened up his room and it wasn’t hard to locate Luffy. He was running around aimlessly, most likely looking for Robin, he sighed not really wanting to do this, but he switched with some debris next to him.

“Oh hey Torao wha- ROBIN!!” he yelled, jumping over to them and wrapping them both in a hug. 

“Will you get off! We don’t have time for this.” Law complained though he never activated his room to switch them away.

“Shishi sorry Torao, I am just glad that you got Robin!” He was smiling so widely at them. “Let's go back!” He started to run off, but Law grabbed him causing him to stretch and then snap back to them. 

“Hold on Luffy-ya. We can’t go back the way we came in, especially if they really did order a buster call and it wasn’t just a bluff.” Law explained.

He looked confused back at him. “Then what should we do Torao?” He was surprised at how easily the other was listening to him, but he didn’t dwell on it.

“I have been mapping out the facility while you lot were running around fighting and there is an underground passage leading to the gates. I bet if we follow it there would be some Navy ships stationed there at the could commandeer- uh steal-” He corrected seeing the confused look on his face, “and get the hell out of here.”

“Shishi Toroa is so smart.” Law tried his best to ignore the look Luffy was giving him.

“Yeah well whatever.” He could feel his cheeks heating up. “The only issue is that the remaining agents will most likely be going to this exit as well. It seems like most of them are being kept busy by your crew but there is one left who has been guarding Spandam.”

“Pigeon guy.” Luffy said, making a fist and punching it into his open hand.

“Exactly, I do remember you saying something about wanting to fight him earlier…”

“Oooo yeah I am going to kick his ass!!” He said with confidence.

“Perfect, once you beat him, I can get the rest of the crew down here and we can head over to the other side and hopefully overpower the marines there. There will be a lot of them though so we will need everyone to help. Assuming your crew is victorious in their battles.”

“They will win, my friends would never lose.” Law admired his confidence in his crew, but he wasn’t so sure. However, since he needed it to be the case he supposed he could put his confidence in Luffy and the other Strawhats.

It was then that they felt the ground start to shake, and they heard the sound of cannon fire. It appeared that they weren’t lying after all about the buster call. He didn’t know if that Spandam guy was a good planner or just an absolute moron. 

“Sounds like we are on the clock.” Law mumbled activating his room again. It was getting kind of tiring activating such big rooms, but he didn’t have time to dwell on that. He could sleep when this was over. He knew where they had to go, and he swore feeling a presence already down there. “Damn it, they moved faster than I expected. It looks like Lucci and Spandam are already at the door.”

“That's fine, I will just beat them up!” Luffy said with the same confidence.