The Greatest Pirate You've Ever Seen
Synopsis: The Legendary Sparrow and Joy Boy meet.
An: Gender neutral reader. For funsies, reader is Jack Sparrow coded. I think it's a neat concept I haven't seen yet. Sparrow D. Y/n because we like to have a little fun around here 🥺
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You think it's been days since you last set foot on land. The dingy ship you'd stolen on its last legs. There's an island in the distance. Dressrosa, you think. Land of the toys, faires, and whatever else fairytale bullshit.
Sounds like a good time.
You check your compass and sure enough, it's pointing towards the kingdom. While you were here you might as well get a proper log pose. It'd save you from another week of drifting along aimlessly. You dock what's left of your ship and make your way into town.
It's…an experience.
The rumors weren't wrong. Children’s toys walked alongside humans like it was normal. You suppose it wasn't the strangest thing you'd seen in the New World. Fish people and Minks were definitely up there.
“Hey you, tin man. Is there something going on today?” You call out to a robot.
He spins his head around to address you.
“You haven't heard? They're having a tournament for the Flame-Flame fruit. It's being hosted by a member of the royal family.”
He proceeded to eye you wearily. You supposed you looked out of place here compared to the usual civilian.
“Royal family?” You muttered.
That's right.
A warlord and his goons inhabited the island. It would be wise to lay low. On the other hand, there wasn't a wanted poster of you in existence. You were a myth as far as most people were concerned. Nobody would bat an eye at you. Unless you gave out your name, that is.
“Thank you darling.” You give the robot a pat on the arm and leave to search for more information.
You didn't really care about the devil fruit. It's not like you could eat it either. But what you wanted was here. That was enough of a reason for you to enter the tournament.
The application process was simple enough. Sign your name and take a number. Although the woman at the counter looked at you like you were crazy. You were unfortunate enough to be one of the earlier entries. Having to wait as bigger and louder contestants piled in. Forced to listen to their misplaced bravado.
You decided you were too sober to put up with this. Getting ready to scrounge around for a bottle of rum before the fighters started whispering around you. Their sights directed on the latest contestant. An old man.
“Poor old fool probably doesn't know where he is.”
“What's with the little guy?”
“Is this some kind of joke?”
There was something off about the guy. He didn't have the gait of an old man struggling to stand. He's too agile. His hair is practically jet black, not at all grizzled with age like his ‘beard.’ Were people seriously buying this?
You may have been buzzed, but your eyes still worked.
Your suspicions were confirmed when another fighter challenged him. The supposed geezer dodged every punch thrown at him with ease. Grabbing his opponent and slamming him into the ground with a spin.
You smirk, popping open the cap of your compass. The needle immediately points in his direction. This just got very interesting. You make it a point to actually read the name on his back.
‘Lucy’
Even his alias is bullshit.
You think you might have a good time after all. And the slim chance you actually win the devil fruit, you could sell it for a decent sum. Oh, just thinking about all the rum you could get is sending shivers down your spine. Maybe you could even afford a nice ship. Black sails and all.
You unconsciously reach down towards your pocket. Your fingers making out a familiar shape. Seems your day just keeps getting better. The flask is decently full.
You're about two swigs in before someone calls out to you.
“Hey! Where'd you get the food?” It's Lucy. (Who in Luffy fashion, equates drinks to meaning food must also be around.)
“This?” You give the flask a shake, swishing around its contents.
“Forgot I had it on me, honestly. But if you manage to find a bottle, bring it here would you?”
He sulks for a second, mourning the loss of a potential meal. Then all at once he's full of energy again.
“Sure!”
He's a friendly one. You wonder how long your compass will stay pointing at him. How long you'll follow around this time.
“That beard of yours real?” You questioned.
He seemed to remember where he was. His voice immediately picking up in pitch and rasp.
“Why yes young whipper snapper. I grew it myself.”
It's a terrible impression, and you can see the string holding his beard up in place. You're close enough to see his face now. No crows feet or wrinkles. But you don't call him out on it. You're curious to see where this goes. Unfortunately, you don't have much time to sit and talk. The first match is about to begin.
Your match.
“You're a strange one, aren't you? Don't die before the funs begun okay?” You call out behind you.
He scrunches his face up in confusion.
“Huh?”
You'd be sure to find him after your round. For now…
“Block A!” The announcer calls out.
One by one, the fighters make their way towards the arena. Each name earning ear shattering cheers. When they finally get to yours, the announcer nearly keels over in surprise. It's then you realized you used your real name. He takes multiple breaths of air, as if fighting to keep the oxygen in his lungs.
“Ladies and gentlemen….We have-we have a pirate only rumored to exist! We have the marines’ very own boogeyman! We have….”
The audience goes silent in anticipation.
“WE HAVE SPARROW D. Y/N!!!!!!”
The crowd erupts in absolute pandemonium. Screaming so loud you can barely hear yourself think. You begin to walk the bridge towards the arena. People are practically throwing themselves into the murky waters below for a better look.
There's a scowl on your face as you reach the center.
“They always forget the ‘captain,’” you mutter.
You stumble the rest of the way, silver flask in hand. The audience quickly puts two and two together. The infamous Captain Sparrow…Was an inebriated mess.
“HEY! ARE YOU DRUNK!?!”
“WHO LET THE COMPETITORS BRING IN DRINKS!?!”
“GET THIS ALCOHOLIC OFF THE ARENA!”
You pay them no mind. They're the ones who set their expectations so high. If the fools wanted to believe you were some all mighty pirate, let them believe.
“BEGIN!”
You were immediately surrounded on all sides. No doubt the one to beat you would get an increase to their bounty. A sort of claim to fame. Although some competitors eyed you with scrutiny.
“This small fry really Sparrow?”
You say nothing, already bored with the competition. If this was the best they had to offer, maybe entering the tournament itself wasn't the right move. You go to take a swig from your flask before it's knocked out of your hands. The tip of a sword held against your neck.
“If you're who you say you are, then you'll put up a fight.” One of the opponents threatens.
You finally look up at the men around you.
“Is that a challenge? If you're gonna point your sword, then you better be ready to use it.”
One sweep of your sword.
“Waltz.”
And all your opponents were swept out to the waters below.
The crowd shrieks out in excitement. As if they weren't just cursing you out. You begin to stumble your way towards the exit. Damn shame you were out of rum. Maybe that Lucy guy would find you a bottle after all.
Suddenly, the audience lets out gasps.
“What!?! SOMEONE'S COMING BACK UP!” The announcer shouts.
You turn around to see a burly man haul himself up the platform. The bag on his head falls away, causing another uproar from the audience.
“IT’S THE FIRST DIVISION CAPTAIN SERVING UNDER BLACKBEARD!!! JESUS BURGESS!!!”
He approaches you with the confidence of a man who didn't almost lose. His expression is smug as he sneers down at you.
“So you are the legendary Sparrow. Who knew you'd finally be seen in a place like this?”
His smile widens as if he'd just gotten a great idea.
“Say, why don't you forget about the Flame-Flame fruit…And join Blackbeard’s crew!”
You stare at him in utter silence. The cogs in your brain turning while they try to process the offer. It's subtle, the way your laughter bubbles up. Then all at once you're hollering while clutching your stomach.
“Join you lot? The pirates who feed off left overs and scraps?” Your tone is mocking, as if the very idea is ludicrous.
“I'm nobody's lackey. I'm Captain Sparrow D. Y/n.” You recover from your laughing fit, straightening yourself up.
“You seem to have forgotten the captain part. But don't worry, I'll make sure you remember it from now on.”
The grin on his face shifts into a scowl as he lunges for you.
“HOW DARE YOU!!!”
“Waltz!”
You make sure to use more force this time, sending the pirate flying out through the walls of the arena. You sheath your sword and continue back inside the waiting area.
“The winner is Sparrow D. Y/n!”
You figure that's the end of that. So imagine your surprise being greeted by the end of a sword yet again. A tall blonde man? glares down at you.
“You bastard!” He hissed out.
“While technically true, that's not a nice thing to-”
“Shut up! Who the hell do you think you are?!? Stealing my rightful glory?!?! You ruined everything for me!!!”
You were regretting entering this tournament more and more. You used your finger to direct the blade away from your neck.
“Glory huh? You sure about that? Because I have no idea who you are.”
He shoves you harshly into the wall. Arm pressing down against your neck this time.
“I’m the Pirate Noble Cavendish. Beauty of the sea. Women throw themselves at me in my presence.”
“Then you should consider being in a boy band, mate.” You said before trying to move.
He only added on more pressure, droning on about his fantasy in the spotlight.
“I'll just have to kill you to regain my image. The man who killed Sparrow. Then people will never forget who I am.”
Your hand moved little by little towards your holster. Finger ready on the trigger at a moments notice. All you had to do was draw your weapon.
“Heyyyyyy!!!!! Sparrow!! Good job on your match!” A familiar voice called out.
Your grip loosens around your pistol.
The blonde’s hold on you goes slack to see who it is.
“Oh, cabbage is here too? Nice.” Lucy greets.
“IT'S CAVENDISH!” Your assailant screeches before composing himself.
“Never mind. I found a solution to my little problem. If Strawhat isn't here, I'll just take out Sparrow instead.” He explains.
“To dinner or with a gun? I gotta say, one of those options sounds a lot more fun than the other.” You comment.
“Why you-!”
Lucy pulls on Cavendish’s collar. Effectively lifting him off you before tugging him away.
“Quit arguing! The next round is about to begin.”
And as the blonde is being dragged off, you can't help but taunt him a little.
“P.s. I was talking about the gun.”
“Count your days Sparrow!”
If all your interactions were going to be like this, then you'd better find a secluded space to watch the rest of the matches. A shame that blonde was with Lucy. You would've loved to observe him a little more.
—---------------------------
Block B was decently entertaining. Especially with that Bartolomeo fellow. You wished the opponents in your block would have lasted half as long. At least you could look forward to the final round. The competitors looked stronger for Block C. Maybe that Lucy guy would be a finalist.
There were also rumors going around now of a pirate who'd entered. Why he was being targeted, you had no clue. But clearly he'd done something to earn himself a manhunt. If only you could remember the name.
“BLOCK C! BEGIN!”
Bodies were immediately thrown from the arena. You were surprised they managed to fit a giant on there. Size gave him a small advantage over the rest. Then there was the old man and his grandsons. For an actual grandpa, he was spry. And he seemed to be targeting Lucy???
You watched as he chased after the smaller man. Getting stopped and blocked off by another competitor. Lucy himself became cornered. He retracted his arm in a punch, stretching back further than humanly possible.
“Gum-Gum Pistol!”
Gum-gum?
Wasn't there a rookie with that devil fruit?
What was his name?
There was a screech from somewhere above you. Followed by the heavy footsteps of guards. The scream repeated until you could just make it out.
“STRAWHAT!”
Ah, that was his name.
Strawhat Luffy. One of the worst generation captains. He kept taking out opponents one by one, opting not to use his devil fruit anymore. He must've still wanted to keep some semblance of anonymity. Although he couldn't help but throw out the occasional kick and punch that defied the natural laws of physics.
In his short time out in the arena he'd managed to: tame a wild bull, take out a warrior from Elbaf, and be one of the last two men standing. His fist collided directly against the old man’s. The resulting impact sent everyone from the audience unconscious.
A perfect clash of Conquerer’s Haki.
A wide grin broke out across your face.
You can't remember the last time someone piqued your interest. And as he inflated his haki covered fist, you didn't think anyone would ever captivate it as completely again. Maybe you'd let him win the tournament if you faced off. Just to see what he'd do from there.
“The winner of Block C: Lucy!!!!”
You decide to explore for a bit since the arena wouldn't be ready for another fifteen minutes. You tug down the brim of your hat to hide your face. Strange. There's no sign of the injured competitors. You don't have much time to dwell on it though. Various shouts starting to echo through the corridors.
“GET BACK HERE!!!!”
“STRAWHAT!!!! WE NEED TO TALK!!!”
“MR. STRAWHAT!!!”
You duck behind a hallway. The sound of the stampede draws closer. Good news, you're not the center of attention anymore. Bad news, they were about to put your source of entertainment on a skewer.
Before you can rationalize against it, you stick out your hand. The feeling of fabric brushes against your fingertips and you pull as hard as you can. You hold down Strawhat, covering his mouth with your hand. He wasted no time struggling against your grip.
“Shh. They're about to pass by.” You whispered.
He stops squirming, relaxing into you with a sigh. Sure enough, his pursuers run straight past the two of you. When you're sure they won't come back, you release him. (He still peeks cautiously from behind the corner.)
“You're really popular today. I almost feel bad keeping you to myself.” You tease.
He lets out an exasperated noise, clutching at his head.
“Don't tell me you wanna fight me too!!!”
You wave him off with a laugh.
“Not really my style to jump someone. Besides, you're amusing to watch. Wouldn't want to break you, now would I?”
Your words carry a certain undertone to them. One he absolutely does not pick up on. Throwing all flirtatious notions out the window.
“You wouldn't break me. I'm made of rubber, so attacks just bounce right off me.”
As if to prove his point, he flexes his bicep.
He's got a boyish charm to him. All smiles and not an ounce of hesitation behind his eyes. You can tell he's one of those go-getter types. It'd do him well in the New World.
“You know, I'm really glad you beat the crap out of that Burgess guy.” His voice snaps you from your thoughts.
“And why's that?”
“I don't want someone like that win Ace’s fruit.”
Ace? Not Fire-Fist. He knew him on a personal level. Perhaps someone who was still left in Whitebeard's crew. You wouldn't know. You didn't exactly keep up with what happened at Marineford. Nevertheless, you thought it was admirable he wanted to preserve the image of someone who was important to him.
“You really want it that bad huh?”
“Yeah. As long as it doesn't fall into the wrong hands.”
You liked honest people like him. Easy to deceive. They were always the most loyal too. You begin to walk away, trusting he'll do the same and find a better hiding place.
“Till next time, Strawhat.” You call out behind you.
“See ya!”
When the final round is about to begin, right after Block D, you're mildly surprised not to see Strawhat anywhere. You finally catch sight of a golden helmet. But you could tell just by the way he held himself now. You check your compass to confirm your suspicions.
Sure enough, the needle is spinning around in the opposite direction. You were no fool. The man in front of you was the furthest from Strawhat. He was taller, blonde hair peaking out from under his helmet. Not to mention his outfit was different. A blue tail coat in place of the Hawaiian button up.
“You're not Strawhat, are you?”
He stiffens at your question.
“Why do you wanna know?”
And his voice, it definitely wasn't Strawhat. He seemed almost defensive. Protective of the real Strawhat. You figured being honest wouldn't hurt.
“He’s a very intriguing individual. I would have loved to get to know him better. But seeing as he's gone, I have no reason to continue fighting in this tournament.” You explained.
“You don't want the devil fruit?” He asked in disbelief.
“I want what every pirate wants: freedom to live how I want to. No skin off my back if I get the fruit or not.”
He hesitates for a second before speaking again.
“The, uh, real Lucy wanted me to hand this off to you.”
He passes on a bottle of sake to you. Not quite rum, but it'd get the job done. You're surprised Strawhat kept his word. It makes you grin from under the brim of your hat.
“A good man that one is. Don't worry about me, I'll find my own way out. Have fun.”
—-------------------------------------
You aren't quite sure how things ended up like this. One minute you're searching for your next dose of fun, the next, Dressrosa is being destroyed by its king. Out of all days, it had to be the one when you were visiting the island.
You were just trying to find a boat. Not even halfway to the docks when a mass of strings shot out in front of you. They surrounded the entire island, caging everyone inside. Were…were they moving!?!
“Oh buggar,” you muttered under your breath.
You had no choice but to back away to safety. Watching as the string sliced everything in its path. The entire kingdom was in an uproar. Toys transforming back into people. Buildings shifting and moving around. Stampedes running back and forth, not knowing which way to flee.
You headed towards the center of the city. Where everyone else seemed to clutter. You finally had a clue what was going on as Doflamingo was thrown out from above the castle. Strawhat right behind him in some new form.
He was fighting with everything he had. The citizens around you were cheering for him. For their freedom. And you understood the situation you were in. You'd all be crushed if Doflamingo wasn't stopped.
And Strawhat was just the man to do it.
He gave a final punch, sending the warlord flying into the cliffside. Strawhat deflated right after, falling into the center of town. There were murmurs around you. People hesitant to celebrate just yet.
It looked like he won…until Doflamingo removed one of his arms from the rubble. Then the other. The citizens screamed out in terror. Once again running in the opposite direction. None of them sparing a second glance towards Strawhat.
If he truly was the only one who could get you out of this mess, then you'd make a gamble. You approached him through the frenzied crowd. Making sure to keep your eye on the warlord above as he healed himself.
“Strawhat,” you called out as you kneeled down next to him.
He feebly raised his head, recognition flashing in his eyes. Then relief. Poor thing could barely see straight.
“Can you still fight?”
He tried to get up, only for his arm to give out under him. You were quick to steady him from falling. Letting him put his full weight on you.
“Need…ten minutes,” he struggled to get out.
“Ten minutes? You can promise me you'll be able to win in ten minutes. Not a second more?”
His gaze sharpened, becoming more determined.
“Ten minutes. Then my-my haki will be recharged.”
It's a very risky gamble. And you had no plans of dying anytime soon. Ten minutes exactly was a long shot, especially if you ended up dead anyways. But for whatever reason, you trusted him.
“Done. But I expect rum this time. None of that light weight stuff. Got it?”
Against all odds, he laughs. It's every bit as exhausted as he is. And it reassures you that much more.
“Sure thing Sparrow.”
You're not sure who grabs him and moves him out of the way, but you're beyond grateful for one less distraction. You draw your sword in anticipation of what's to come. You'd never brand yourself as a hero. There was just a mutual goal between you and the kingdom of Dressrosa right now. The goal being not seeing those pearly white gates.
There's a feeling of dread as Doflamingo descends down towards you. Heavenly Demon they called him? It was very fitting. He practically loomed over you. The red glint from his sunglasses didn't help either.
He looked surprised to see you standing here instead of Strawhat. Judging from the way his smile widened, it's a welcome turn of events. You don't let it faze you.
“Can't say I love what you did with the place, but something about it screams Doflamingo,” you comment.
You weren't delusional enough to believe you could beat him. But stall him for ten minutes? That you could do. It was best to keep him talking for as long as possible.
“Captain Sparrow D. Y/n. You finally make your appearance after so long in the shadows. And in my kingdom no less.” He sneered down at you.
“Finally someone who doesn't forget the ‘captain.’ You know, if you weren't a murderous sociopath or evil dictator, we could be great friends.”
You can see him shift his fingers, thin strings following the movement. He takes a step forward. You stand your ground.
“What's someone like you doing protecting Strawhat?”
He's trying to do the same as you. Stall for time. Although his reason is very different from yours. Trying to analyze the best way to attack.
“I’ve got a lot invested in his survival right now. He's a very interesting man, wouldn't you say so?” You tried to bait.
“I hope you have some return on that investment. Strawhat’s a dead man walking.”
It doesn't goad him to strike first like you wanted. Instead, saying something that has your blood running cold.
“How about we make a trade? I'll let him live if you give me the compass.”
You freeze for barely a second, but it's enough. Far too late to open your mouth and deny its existence.
“Don't try to play stupid with me. I know all about Tia Dalma’s compass… and what it does. So do we have a deal?”
You'd sooner crush it beneath your boot than ever hand it over to someone like him.
“A compass that points to what you want most, or Strawhat's life? You've really got me in a bind here. Do you think his life is really worth that much? Or is the compass worth that little?”
You pretend to think on it, stalling for a few more precious seconds.
“I'll get back to you on that.”
It was effectively the straw that broke the camel’s back. He slashes his hand down, sending a wave of string at you. You dodge to the side, raising your sword up to block his kick.
Damn, this guy was fast.
Behind you came another onslaught of thread from what appeared to be a clone. They sliced down your back as you made a hasty escape. The former warlord let out a cackle. His clone joining him at his side. The ground beneath you beginning to morph into more string.
He was using his awakening.
“Buggar,” you mumbled as the two Doflamingos charged towards you.
Just like last time, you blocked one with your sword and ducked under the second attack. The ground receded into itself before jutting out in a spike. Your reflexes were better this time. Jumping towards a building and stumbling towards the rooftop. You unfortunately didn't make it very far.
“I wonder…” He started as he flickered his fingers. The building crumpling into a heap of threads from under you.
“What type of devil fruit did you eat? It'd make it easier to find a use for it after I take it from your corpse.”
You find it in you to manage a smirk.
“What makes you think I ate one?”
It makes him falter. Just enough time for you to hop onto the next building.
“Or maybe I did. Maybe I ate the Op-Op fruit. That's two things now you can never have.”
You can see the veins on his forehead bulge.
“Strike a nerve, did I?”
The ground gives way completely. At least ten buildings ahead of you sharing the same fate as the previous ones. Doflamingo is diving towards you, his clone following suit. Right where you want them.
“Waltz!”
You swing your sword with as much force as you can muster. The slash cuts the clone straight through. It falls away back into thread. The real Doflamingo, however, isn't so fortunate. Your attack tearing up the flesh on his arm.
And just when you think you might have a moment of reprieve, he forces his arm through the pain. His hand wrapping tightly around your throat. You're suspended in midair. He could snap your neck or slam your skull on the pavement if he so desired.
You kick your legs to no avail. The little air in your throat being squeezed out. You would not die here. You still had an ace up your sleeve.
“I expected much more from you. But you're a weakling just like every other pirate.”
He applied more pressure onto your neck. You could see your vision start to get spotty.
“You're no devil in the shadows. No boogeyman hiding in the dark. You're human. And humans…Can be killed.”
You don't really have a choice. It's either use it or die. You grip his arm back. A defiant look in your eye. You open your mouth, prepared to use your attack, when a shout interrupts you.
“MINGOOOOOO!”
Doflamingo snaps his head in the direction the voice comes from.
It's Strawhat.
You take the confusion he caused as an opportunity to break free. A strange sensation overtakes the warlord’s arm. He glances down at you in surprise. Vision almost distorted as you somehow kick yourself free. The next instant, you're a few feet away from him.
“Remember this day as the day you ALMOST caught Captain Sparrow!”
And with that, Luffy charges at him.
You don't get to see much of the fight, having been teleported out of the way. You're on a different rooftop when you realized what's happened. You'd been moved to safety. What a lucky day. Your eyes make contact with another pirate’s. This one bloodied up with his arm practically hanging off.
“Rough Day?”
“Shut it.”
—-------------------------------
It feels like a miracle when Strawhat lands the final punch. Everyone holds their breath as Doflamingo lays in a crater. With no sign of movement, the civilians cheer for their newfound freedom.
The days seem to blur together after that. Celebrations, avoiding the marines, setting sail with all the pirates who fought to free Dressrosa. You only stuck around as long as you did because your compass refused to change its course.
Though you don't mind it all that much. Watching as several Captains take an oath to become part of Strawhat's ‘fleet.’ You're pleasantly surprised when he not only shows visible discomfort at their offer, but also downright rejects it. His own crew doesn't seem the least bit surprised by his actions. Taking it upon themselves to drink the massive cup of sake.
The other captains gape in shock as he explains himself. He didn't want to hide behind numbers to get his way. He wanted to rely on his own strength and his crew. Somehow, he manages to bring it back to friendship. How if he really needs help, the other pirates will have his back. Equals instead of subordinates.
Ugh, so sweet it could give you cavities.
Then they go around and throw it back in his face. Taking the oath anyway. Bartolemello notices the lack of sake in your hand, pushing a full cup towards you.
“C’mon! Don't you wanna pledge your loyalty to Strawhat?”
You scowl at the very idea.
“I'm nobody's little groupie. If you want to worship the ground he walks on, be my guest.”
It's something Luffy happens to overhear. He remembers you saying something similar to Burgess. He's glad someone here is still sane. (Not kissing up to him as a way to show gratitude.) You have a bottle of some kind of alcohol in your hand. Same as when he first saw you.
You stumble your way towards his direction and he wonders how you don't topple over. Even during the tournament you were off balance.
“Why do you walk like that when you fight?” He questions when you're near enough.
It catches the attention of his first mate, who goes on to give an explanation before you can open your mouth.
“It's a fighting technique. People let their guard down when they assume their opponent is drunk off their ass.”
Luffy nods along like he gets it. Although you're quick to shut down the idea with a murmur.
“Yeah. Totally a technique…and not a substance problem.”
“Wait. YOU'RE ACTUALLY DRUNK?!?” Zoro exclaimed while Luffy found himself laughing.
“You're funny!”
You tilt your head up and smirk.
“Part of my charm.”
You stick by him and his crew after that. Eating and drinking at your leisure without disruptions. The calm before the storm. You keep checking your compass to see if it'll change. It doesn't, which is strange. You're hardly ever on the same course for long.
There must be something more to Strawhat that holds the key to your boredom. Something about him that'll keep you on your toes for the foreseeable future. He seems nice enough not to shoo you away. His alliance partner on the other hand, eyed you with caution.
Noticing you constantly popping the lid open and catching a glance at the needle. It spins around a few times before settling in a direction not north. He's right to be distrusting. You're a person of legend. Not much known about you except the wreckage you leave behind.
“How do you expect to sail with a broken compass?” He asked after a while.
“The compass isn't broken. It doesn't work like a traditional one,” you begin to explain.
“It leads you towards the thing you want most in the moment. Great for someone like me who isn't interested in treasures. Dangerous in the hands of someone like you, savvy?”
Dangerous in the hands of someone cold and calculating. Someone who could decide they wanted destruction.
“And what exactly is it leading you to?”
You can tell he doesn't believe you. So you decide a visual demonstration will cement the idea.
“What i want most…Is fun. For some reason-”
You move and the head of the compass points towards Luffy.
“That's in Strawhat’s direction.”
At the sound of his name, Luffy turns towards you from his plate.
“So far you've lived up to my expectations. Hope you don't mind if I tag along a little longer.” You address directly.
“Absolutely not! We don't need someone like you ruining our plans!” Trafalgar shuts down.
“Is he always this high strung?” You ask Luffy before returning your attention to Law.
“Mate, we're pirates. The world's at our fingertips and we answer to no one. What's the point in living if there's not a little risk?”
Luffy's eyes practically light up. You remind him a little of Shanks with the way you embody freedom. So he decides he wouldn't mind it if you tagged along with him and his crew. You did help out with Doflamingo, after all. He didn't see the problem as long as you pulled your weight.
It doesn't go unnoticed by his crew how he calls you Sparrow. Not some messed up version of it or calling you by an attribute you have. Maybe it's because you'd made a memorable impression. Or you'd earned his respect in such a short time.
“You might actually be the first person whose name Luffy remembers.” The sniper commented.
“Don't know how someone could mess up Sparrow. It'd be an achievement. But my friends call me Y/n.” You offer.
Luffy butchers your first name immediately. You cackle along with the rest of his crew at the blunder.
“Hey! You're laughing!” He pouts.
“You should just stick with Sparrow, and I'll stick with Strawhat.”
“What?!? I thought we were friends!”
You smirk from under the brim of your hat.
“We could be. If you’ve got another bottle of rum lying around for me.” Your tone is playful, bordering flirtatious.
“I'm sure they're stocked somewhere below deck.” He responds.
You decide to push things a bit further, giving his cheek a light pat.
“Be a good boy and go get one for me then.”
He frowns, but it's more annoyed instead of mad.
“I don't take orders from anyone either,” he says stubbornly.
“You owe me one. My face is on a wanted poster thanks to you.”
“Is that so?” He thinks about it for a second before bowing his head down.
“Sorry to hear that.”
“DON'T GIVE IN LUFFY!” His sniper chastises.
A little later, Strawhat approaches you. By then the noise had died down and most of the pirates had drunk themselves out cold. You're once again explaining how your compass works. He's listening intently, and not at all in Luffy fashion, asked a rather intelligent question.
“Could somebody really find the One Piece with that?”
“Theoretically, if that's what they wanted most.” You answer.
“So if I touched it right now, it'd show me the way?”
“Is that what you want most?”
It's a test. And he passes with flying colors.
“Not right now. Getting back the rest of my crew is more important. Besides, using that thing would be cheating. And I wanna become King of the Pirates on my own.”
Honest to a fault, but not naive. He's also a good person. There weren't many of those left.
-------------------------------
You're starting to understand more and more why your compass was solely trained on Strawhat. Not just anybody had enough guts to barge into an emperor’s territory. Let alone steal a Road Ponyglyph from one. It's exhilarating to think about.
Of course, he did almost kill you and his crew through starvation. Which was NOT the thrill you were looking for.
You'd only taken a nap. A measly hour, but that was all it took to create the foul concoction before you. Strawhat had presented the pot to his crew with pride. A sea food boil, he'd called it. The broth was purple like poison. The food undercooked, yet somehow overcooked. The smell was enough to kill.
“You find that in Davey Jones’ Locker?” You questioned.
“Nope. I made it. Eat up!” He pushed the pot towards you with a smile.
“I'd rather not.”
“What? It's not that bad.”
From behind him, the skeleton took a cautious spoonful of the boil. Immediately he began gagging before heaving over.
“Your skeleton just died for a second time.” You pointed out.
“Brook’s being dramatic.”
He waved off before he tried some himself. Face scrunching up in disgust as he spat it out. He chose that moment to reveal he'd used up all the ship’s stock. With no other option, the crew split up to see if they could find anything. You included.
You let out a gutted cry a few minutes after separating.
“What happened!?! What'd you find!?!” The reindeer asked, cowering behind the navigator.
“The rum’s gone!!!! What happened to the rum!?!?” You cried, sinking down onto your knees in despair.
Were you being dramatic? Yes. But if you were going to starve, you'd rather die doing what you loved.
“I used it up. Sometimes Sanji uses wine when he cooks and I wanted to see what would happen.” Strawhat explained.
You have him an anguished look. Opening your mouth to speak and having nothing come out.
“Get used to it. Luffy does things like this all the time.” The navigator said in exasperation.
“But the rum-!”
“I know, I know.”
If almost killing his crew wasn't bad enough, Strawhat nearly killed himself a second time from eating the scales of a toxic fish. You couldn't really blame him. He was so hungry he was trying to eat the doctor. And the rabbit. And at some point your hat? (He thought the feather was a bird.)
Despite it all, you were never bored for long. Germa 66 made an appearance. (Who were apparently the masterminds behind Blackleg’s disappearance.) The island was made of confectionaries. And there was a wedding to crash.
Everything seemed to be going well. As well as they could go when infiltrating an emperor's territory. But when Strawhat was finally face to face with his cook, things took a turn. Being the sap he was, he approached his cook with open arms. He'd told him how happy he was to see the blonde okay. How now they could leave and have things go back to normal.
But Blackleg wasn't receptive to it.
He tried shooing Luffy away. When it didn't work, he resorted to violence. He landed hit after hit with no sign of stopping. Not until Strawhat would agree to let him go. He didn't, of course. You were right about Luffy being loyal to a fault.
The navigator was screaming at Blackleg to stop. Screaming for her captain to fight back. Screaming for you to do something. It wasn't your place to intervene, but you didn't exactly want Strawhat to die. If he did, then you'd lose your heading. (Your entertainment.)
You didn't think the cook would go that far. Seems you were wrong. He was charging up a powerful attack. No longer willing to pull his kicks. He lunged forward with every intent to put an end to the fight. There was a loud impact. The hilt of your sword blocking his leg from reaching Luffy.
“I think you've made your point, yeah?”
You could have sworn you saw a brief glimpse of relief. Although it was quickly masked by a scowl.
“Get out of my way,” he spat through clenched teeth.
“Does it make you feel big and strong to beat on someone who won't fight back?”
He looked like he was fighting back tears. Glancing over your shoulder at his wounded captain. It wasn't hard to put two and two together. Not when the rest of Germa were peaking their heads out of the carriage.
“Or is nothing else working to drive him away?” You made sure to lower your voice.
“I don't know who you are, but you have no right to get involved with this.”
“You see, that's the funny thing.” You draw your pistol before he can even blink. You won't shoot it. But it does wonders to prove your point.
“I don't need anyone's permission to choose how I live. I do what I want. I take what I want. I'm a pirate, savvy?”
Your words ring true to him, despite not knowing it. He was a pirate. Not anymore. His future wasn't his anymore. But if that meant keeping his captain and his friends safe, then so be it.
“Then take Luffy and get out of here…Please.”
He's a softie just like his captain. You wonder what it is about Strawhat that attracts good people.
“He won't follow anyone’s orders but his own. And you know that.” You shut down.
He doesn't say anything back. There isn't much you or the navigator can do besides watch him go. You can only listen as Strawhat makes one final promise before he's out of ear shot. He won't eat or move. Not until he has his cook back.
He won't give up on what he wants.
You can see Big Mom's army in the distance, marching towards the three of you. There's far too many. This isn't a fight any of you could win. Nami tries to get Luffy to move. He refuses.
A man of his word.
You decide this is where you part ways. You're not about to be punished for another man's pride. This wasn't like Dressrosa where it was fight or die. You were free to leave. Free to fly. So you did.
“Sorry. I didn't sign up for this.” You apologize before beginning to walk away.
“So you're just going to leave!?! You won't even try to help us!?!” The navigator accuses.
You don't get the chance to defend yourself.
“Nami. Let them go. This isn't their fight.” Strawhat scolds.
He looks at you like he can see your very being. Then he gives a knowing smile. One that catches you off guard.
“Besides…Y/n will be back. I know it.”
You feel a heaviness in your chest. One you haven't felt in a long time. Guilt. He finally says your name right, and you fear you'll carry that with you when he's found dead. You push through it, casting one last glance back.
“Don't count on it. Good luck."
—----------------------------
Something's wrong with you. There's gotta be. Here you are before a decent ship, ready to be untethered and set sail. Yet you're hesitating. Sparrow doesn't hesitate. Your compass spins around erratically, indecisive. You don't know what you want.
That's not entirely true. You know what you want, but you don't know if you're ready to let go of it yet. He just had to smile at you. Had to say he trusted you. What gave him the right to see the good in people?
Surely he was just speaking in hypotheticals. Something to calm down the navigator. He didn't mean it. But the more you tried to rationalize against it, the more your reasoning unraveled. Strawhat was an honest and loyal man. You knew that to be true. So when he said he believed you'd come back, he meant it.
You didn't realize you'd already started walking. The needle of your compass set in a direction. This is just protecting your investment. Nothing more.
It wasn't too hard finding the dungeon. Or dungeon book. The chaos was familiar and welcomed. So very Strawhat. The room was up in flames. Big Boss Jimbei was there trying to set everything in the book free. And Strawhat was about halfway done tearing off his hands.
You shot a few rounds at some unsuspecting guards. Stopping them from sneaking up on the former warlord. He gives you a nod, silently thanking you. Strawhat notices you soon after. Looking at you the way a puppy looks at its owner. The heaviness is back in your chest. Weighing it down in a way that feels good now. Warm. His trust hadn't wavered.
“I knew you'd come back!”
It makes your face hot. You hide it beneath the brim of your hat, pushing down the softness of your expression.
“If I let you die, I lose my heading. And it'd be very troublesome to find something new right now.” You justify.
“Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say,” he waves off. Like he knows you're not telling the entire truth.
—---------------------------
Somehow, things keep going Strawhat's way. You think some higher being up there must be looking out for him. There has to be for him to find another worst generation captain to ally with. And after almost dying for a third time, he'd managed to get his cook back. Fate is on this man’s side…And you couldn't be more excited to see where it takes him.
The wedding was absolute chaos. The aftermath was even worse. If somebody would've told you a few months ago Big Mom would be chasing after you on a sentient cloud, you probably would have believed them. But to be chased for someone else's benefit? You'd have called them insane.
You kept slashing and slashing at that damn cloud to no avail. You were thankful for Nami’s quick thinking, supercharging the cloud to electrocute Big Mom. Seems the entire crew had insane luck.
You didn't know if Strawhat would last up against Katakuri. But the more time you spent on his ship, the more faith you had in him. The same trust he'd given to you. You'd forgotten what it was like working as a team. Fighting against a common enemy just to do it all over again.
As planned, he'd come back. Not that you were worried he wouldn't. He was battered beyond belief. Worse than his fight with Doflamingo. But he accomplished what he wanted. His cook fussing over him before handing him over to Chopper.
It all worked out in the end. It always did for Luffy. Although the escape was a rough one. You thought it was a little funny how Blackleg immediately got to cooking. An eager Strawhat trying to follow him to the kitchen.
“So, who's our new guest?” The blonde questioned.
“Sparrow.” Luffy answered, which you were quick to correct.
“Captain Sparrow!”
“Same thing.”
You flashed him a small scowl before returning your attention to the cook. He looked unbelievably happy. A pep in his step as he began to gather ingredients. He belonged out in the sea, and he would embrace it with open arms as long as Strawhat was his captain.
“Guess you're a pirate after all,” you commented.
He didn't even try to hide his smile.
“Guess so. Any meal preferences?” He asked.
“Anything that pairs well with rum.”
“Got it.”
Luffy watched the interaction with a grin. You really fit in here. He thought about asking you to join his crew. Especially when you'd come back for him and Nami. But you weren't the type to follow someone else's orders, and he respected that.
Still, you got along with most of his crew. You were a strong fighter. A great strategist when you were put on the spot. And your bounty was over 2 billion, but who's counting?
So while Sanji’s preparing food for everyone, he goes to bother you. The only one who wasn't preoccupied. He crouches down by your side, invading your personal space.
“Is it still pointing at me?” He asks.
You open up your compass, and he watches in fascination as the needle points directly at him. It's not his first time seeing it. Yet that doesn't make it any less cool.
“Seems like it,” you respond.
“Good. You really came through for us, you know?”
You swear that damn smile never left his face unless he was fighting. He's got not a care in the world. You envy it a little. He's too trusting for his own good.
“You should believe what they say about me. I'm unreliable and impulsive. The second my compass swings in the opposite direction, I'll be gone. Off to a new adventure.” You warn, just as Bege had done a few days earlier.
“You haven't heard the stories, have ya kid?” He asked Strawhat.
“What stories?”
“Sparrow is a flake. They'll be your best friend as long as you have what they want. The second you don't, they turn tail and leave. You really okay working with someone like that?”
You understood the skepticism. This was a risky job and any margin of error would be everyone's downfall. But Luffy vouches for you, and it makes you sick.
“Of course I trust I them! Sparrow came back for us when we were captured!”
You try not to let it show as Beigi sends you a doubtful look.
“Guilty as charged.” You played off, raising your hands.
Trust is a fickle thing, you've come to learn. Being stranded on an island for three days really proved the point. So you don't know how to react when someone gives it to you wholeheartedly.
“But you came back for us.” Luffy defends.
You've told him he's nothing more than entertainment to you. Something temporary until the next thing catches your eye. And still he trusts you. It's so sad you could almost laugh. But your softening heart beats your bitter thoughts to your mouth.
“For you, jolly little sailor,” you correct.
He decides he likes the way that nickname sounds. Not mocking or degrading, but sugary sweet. He prefers it over you calling him Strawhat. It makes him lean a little closer into your personal space.
“I miss my crew,” you admit quietly.
He reminds you of what you left behind. The people who believed you would become the greatest pirate anyone's ever seen. You see the way he interacts with his crew, and you can't help but think of yours. You'd forgotten what working with a team was like until you began following him around.
You miss the chaos on deck. The constant chatter. Irritating your first mate and making questionable decisions. For the first time, it's not the alcohol that makes you honest. It's something else.
What's the word?
Ah yes.
The very same that’d been running through your mind lately.
Trust.
“You had a crew?” Luffy questioned.
“I did. I wasn't a very good captain to them, but they stuck around anyways.”
For all the hell you put them through, they'd stuck around. Your second crew anyway. The one you'd built up after your trust had been shattered the first time.
“I figured they'd be better off without me. I left them the ship stocked with supplies and left.”
You convinced yourself it was a mercy. Who wanted a captain that drank all the time and chased treasure on a whim? You always put yourself first, even when you tried not to. It's what was best. (Though you knew what it really was. Leaving before they had a chance to betray you just like before)
“The one I left in charge, Turner, he's a promising man. A good man. He's just got one flaw.”
“What's that?”
Luffy was listening intently. Quiet for the first time since you'd known him. Not antsy in his seat, but patient.
“He fell victim to one of life's greatest curses. He fell in love with a young lass. And everybody knows love’s a weakness waiting to be exploited.” You explained.
From the corner of your eye, you could see his brow furrow in disagreement.
“Love's not a weakness. If you don't have someone to fight for, then what's the point? Me and my crew are stronger from it. We trust each other, and that's more than enough.”
“You sound just like him. A fool with a bleeding heart. He'd throw everything away if she just asked him to. But she'd never ask that of him. Know why? Because she loves him. And so the cycle repeats. Life's cruelest trick.” You know you sounded bitter. But you'd seen it one too many times.
What people would sacrifice for their lover’s happiness.
You'd never let that be you. Even if you did fancy someone, you'd never let them change you.
“You ever been in love?” You questioned.
“Not really. Hancock keeps asking me to marry her, but I'm not interested in that stuff. What about you? Is there someone waiting for you?”
You snort at the idea. You suppose it's a courtesy to return the question. Although you're sure you made your answer clear with your whole spiel.
“The sea is my one true love. Vast and free. It can be as calm as a summer’s day, or as unforgiving as a woman’s scorn. There's beauty in the unpredictable. Don't you think?” You say, tilting your head up to see him better.
In that moment, you looked so carefree. So breathtaking in your aloof lifestyle. No rules or regulations. Just you and the sea. Luffy's heart begins to beat a little faster in his chest. You don't follow after anything. You only use your compass to chase what you want.
It hits him then. Really hits him. He doesn't have something you want. He is what you want. And maybe he's starting to want you too. You're reliable when it counts. And despite what you think of yourself, you were a good captain. You did love. Because only a good captain who loved their crew, would know when they needed to step up or let go.
Maybe he'd be something for you to hold onto this time.
—-------------------------
Like most things Strawhat related tend to go, the ride to Wano was hectic. You clung on tightly to the mast as the ship ascended up a waterfall. The rest of the crew was in similar shape. All except Strawhat, whose laughter rang out from the figurehead. Again, you envied him. Just when you thought things were over, the ship was being sucked into a giant whirlpool.
Blackleg opted to save the women first. (Which you respected.) The reindeer and skeleton followed suit. All that was left were you and Strawhat.
“I don't think I can carry anyone else!” He shouted above the crashing waves.
“I can take care of myself! Just go!” You reassured.
Sanji looked towards his captain for confirmation. When he got it, he took off with the others. Kicking through the air until they reached land. All the while, you and Luffy continued to be tossed around the ship. He stood next to you, unfazed by the sudden turn of events.
“Okay! Let's ride this thing out!” He cheered.
He was crazy. But you'd gotten this far. Might as well embrace it. You pulled him close to you, bracing your legs.
“Hold on to me and don't let go!” You instructed.
He wrapped his arm tightly around you, keeping one hand on his hat. You focused your attention on the shore. The waves beginning to warp. You just needed one clear shot and you could get out of this mess.
“What about the ship?!?” Luffy called out.
“I’ve got it!”
And as if the universe were mocking you, you were hit by a huge wave of seawater. Your strength immediately zapped from your body.
“I, uh, don't got it anymore.”
Instead of being met with disappointment, he only gave you a reassuring smile.
“It's fine. Things’ll work out.”
You sure hoped so. Your vision going black as the ship tipped over and sunk.
—------------------------------
You were surprised when you came too. You figured you would have ended up drowning. But like Strawhat said, things worked out. You washed up on the shores of Wano. No sign of Strawhat or the Sunny. To make matters worse, your pistol was drenched. You'd have to find more gunpowder.
You make your way towards a town. The people there sent you odd looks. You're sure stood out like a sore thumb here. It would be wise to take up a disguise of some kind. Then again, you could always say you were a tourist.
Right as you approached a vendor, the sky seemed to darken. You could feel it before you saw it. Something big was coming. Cracks of electricity filled the air. Your skin was prickling. You looked up and froze.
There was a serpent in the sky. No, not a serpent. A dragon. It didn't take a genius to figure out who it was. Kaido, King of Beasts. It suited him, unbelievably so. You were actually trembling. This was the man Strawhat and Trafalgar wanted to beat?
It'd take one hell of a miracle because right now, their chances didn't look so good.
You nearly keeled over in shock as a small body collided against the dragon. Immediate recognition coursed through you. You'd seen that person before. That familiar bulked up form.
Strawhat was fighting Kaido.
Never a dull moment with that one. You cringe as the emperor knocks him out with a single swing of his club. The worst part? Kaido was drunk off his ass. He wasn't even trying.
You fought the urge to run over. It wouldn't do any good to expose yourself now. You knew he was crazy, but to outright challenge an emperor? The man had a death wish. You hoped for his sake he'd be imprisoned instead of executed.
Under normal circumstances, you would have cut your losses and left. But you were in too deep now. In for a penny, in for a pound, they always say. So when the skies finally cleared and Kaido slank back into his hole, you forced yourself to continue on. Bartering for gunpowder from a still shaken vendor.
You masked your face beneath your hat and tried to gather information over the following days. The people here were suffering. Counting on some old prophecy from 20 years ago to save them. Yet whispers of a potential uprising were silenced by Kaido’s Beast Pirates.
The more you asked around, the more attention you brought on yourself. It didn't help that weapons were forbidden for civilians. You should've been smarter about it. Not worried about Strawhat and his crew.
You sat down to grab a drink. Something to take the edge off. You didn't even notice the approaching officers. Not until they were directly behind you, a gun pointed at your back.
“Just having a drink. Not a crime last I checked,” you mumbled.
“You're coming with us, Sparrow!” One of them commanded.
You wondered how you were recognized so easily. Then you remembered you had a wanted poster now. It wasn't hard to pick you out from a crowd. You got up without making a fuss. Paying your tab before your arms were forced behind your back. You decided fighting wasn't worth the energy. Not unless you really needed to.
They brought you to a rather high class building. High class for your taste at least. You didn't usually seek out brothels. The pirates forced you on your knees before a frumpy looking man. Their shogun, you presumed.
“Sparrow D. Y/n. What a wonderful surprise.” He beamed down at you.
His gaze was predatory. As if he'd just found some golden ticket. He was slimy in every sense of the word. You'd gathered enough from the civilians to know so.
“Your reputation precedes you. I'll tell you what, I've got an offer I think you'll like.”
Your expression remains unimpressed.
“Work for me. You'll have riches beyond your wildest dreams. Bodies to warm your bed every night. And nobody would ever dare defy you. Whaddya say?”
You pretended to be interested before bursting his bubble.
“Join a mutineer who has a history of mutiny. I do wonder how that'll play out. I think I'm gonna have to pass. Besides, I'm not a lap dog.”
You meet his eyes with a defiant grin.
“I won't lick the boot of a cowering fool just to please his ego.”
He scowls at you. Pulling out a sword and holding the blade against your neck. You don't flinch, much to his dismay.
“You won't join my crew? Fine. But you're not leaving until you give us the compass.”
Buggar. Somebody else who knew your little secret.
“The compass? What ever could you mean?”
“Don't play dumb! Where is it!?!” He snapped at you.
“Mmm, you're gonna have to be more specific than that. I've got many compasses.”
“THE COMPASS THAT SHOWS YOU WHATEVER YOU WANT!”
“It's-” you tried reaching in your pocket for it, but you feel nothing.
It's then you realized it was probably knocked out during your arrival to Wano. In other words…
“Gone.”
Your day just got a hell of a lot worse. At least it hadn't fallen into the wrong hands. Just into the sea.
“I don't believe you. Search them,” Orichi orders the Beast Pirates.
That was your cue to leave. You swipe your leg in a circle, effectively knocking over the closest officers to you. You take advantage of their shock and make a break for it. Jumping out the window and stumbling away as the guards gave chase.
“Had to bind my hands. They're not sea prism though. Just my lucky day.”
You concentrate, slipping your wrist from the cuffs. Then the other. When all is said and done, you're a few blocks away on top of a building. Your stamina is significantly low. You'd have to work on that for the big fight.
—-----------------------------
M E A N W H I L E I N U D O N
“There's something peaking out of your pocket, Mr. Strawhat. I've been meaning to ask you about it.” Hyougorou pointed out.
“There is?”
Luffy reaches in his pocket and feels something smooth and round. He eyes the item in surprise.
“Woah! It's Y/n’s compass.”
It's the first time he's gotten a proper look at it. There's special engravings in a language he can't understand on the cover. The needle spins around in a circle rapidly.
“It must've gotten broken somehow.” The old comments.
Luffy shakes his head.
“It's not a regular compass. It points towards what you want most.”
Yet for whatever reason, it couldn't pinpoint what he wanted. Spinning around in no particular direction without stopping. Did he even want anything? He wanted Kaido to be defeated, but it's not like the compass could point to that, right?
As soon as he thinks it, the needle points directly at the old man.
“Woah! That's so cool!”
He wonders….. if he decided he wanted you. He'd reunited with his crew briefly, but you were nowhere to be found. He was sure you had a devil fruit of some kind. And if you weren't in Wano…then you'd probably drowned.
The needle snaps in another direction unwavering.
He lets out a sigh of relief. He'd be sure to give you your compass back when he saw you again.
—----------------------------
It was the night of the raid and there was still no sign of you. There was no time to stall the attack. No more time to wait. The Sunny set sail, preparing to aid the Samurai. He couldn't help but look at your compass. It was still pointing somewhere, which meant you weren't dead. Or at least, he thought that's what it meant.
He thought about following it, but if you were hiding it was probably for a good reason. You managed to keep your face a secret for so long. It's only natural you’d stay out of trouble when tensions were this high.
The waves were erratic and the storm around Onigashima was raging. The sea and its unpredictableness. If there was a time for you to show yourself, it'd be now. Law and Kid had already made their appearance. The Beast Pirates trying to ambush and outnumber the alliance.
Right as he was preparing to counter their attack, someone on deck shouts-
“What's that!?!”
From the fog rolls in a ship. It's severely damaged. Torn up sails and various holes in the hull. Almost like a ghost ship. It's a miracle the thing is still floating.
There's a figure in the center of the deck. A familiar hat with a singular feather sticking out. He can't help but break into a grin when he finally makes you out through the storm. You look like a phantom. A ghastly apparition here to bring bad tidings.
“Starting the party without me, are you? Ouch. I thought we were friends.” Your voice cuts through the air.
“Took you long enough! I thought something happened to you!” Luffy shouts back.
Not that you'd left or abandoned him. But that you were in danger. It didn't even cross his mind you were done helping out. He truly believed you'd stick with him. He's a sap. It makes you grin.
“Is that Sparrow?!?” a different voice calls out.
Eustass Kid? That's two worst generation captains Strawhat had under his belt. And one of the rowdiest ones at that.
“Some nerve showing your face around me!!!” He continued on.
“You two know each other?” Trafalgar questioned.
“Sparrow stole all our money.”
Ah yes. The usual dine and dash you had with other pirates until your compass shifted. It wasn't anything personal. You were just in a bit of a pinch. And it's not like you expected to see him again.
“We had fun didn't we? If it makes you feel any better, the rum didn't last long.” You excused.
Luffy watched the interaction with a scrunched up expression. You never tried to steal from his crew.
“Am I not supposed to pillage and plunder? And it's CAPTAIN Sparrow. Don't forget the captain.”
“Captain of what? The inebriated?”
“You'll see soon enough.”
Before you can argue any further, the enemy begins their assault. Shooting off cannons and sending any pirates that can fly to attack. All three crews fend them off effortlessly. Meanwhile, the three captains are at each other's throats. Yelling about who was better and stronger. You were almost tempted to join in.
They launched off towards a battleship, bickering as they went. They were an interesting bunch. You lifted up your hand, focusing your attention towards the same ship.
“Let's have some fun here. Shake!”
The battleship warps and pulls towards you in a spiral. You jump forward, your image distorted as you land on deck. Scrunching the ship to your liking before slicing through. You move onto the next one, being passed by Strawhat and Kid. The previous ship returning back to its shape as it sank.
You slide between the two captains, shooting off a few shots towards a dazed henchman. From above, Trafalgar uses his room to suspend the ship. You spiral the mast towards him for an easier target. He blinks in surprise before slashing his sword. You distort a piece of debris close to you, landing on it before you can reach the sea. You watch as Eustass causes more damage to the ship. Using his ability to repel the cannon balls back. Luffy lands the finishing blow in his Bounce Man form. Law teleports next to you while the other two land onto the platform.
“What the hell kind of devil fruit is that!!?” Kid interrogates.
“The Warp Warp Fruit. I can warp reality to my liking. Takes a lot of stamina, but I couldn't let you lot show me up.” You responded.
Luffy practically beams at you. A stark contrast from the way he'd been trying to one up the other captains. You're okay. More than okay if your attacks were anything to go by. Even reality was yours to take.
He reaches down into his pocket where he's kept your compass. It doesn't have a scratch on it, which he's incredibly proud of.
“I kept this for you,” he said as he extended out the compass.
“Isn’t this a surprise? Thank you, jolly sailor,” you coo as you take it from him.
At the exchange, the needle goes from pointing at you to pointing back at Luffy.
He's still staring at you with bright eyes. Like you might've meant something to him. For once, you're glad to see it.
—--------------------------------
One long, excruciating and painful night later, the land of Wano was liberated. The amount of scares Strawhat gave you couldn't have been good for your heart. Two death announcements and he'd bounced right back. You knew there was something special about that man. There had to be for your compass to be stuck on him.
The man you'd invested so much time in…Was Joy Boy.
The Sun God Nika.
Warrior of Liberation, which made sense in hindsight.
He’s everything good in the world personified. It's no wonder that damn smile rarely left his face. Why he was able to make friends just about everywhere he went. How he was able to win you of all people over.
And you'd heard them. The repetitive drumming that set your being ablaze. It made you tremble in excitement. Pulled you in deeper against the hold Strawhat had on you. You wanted fun, and now you'd always have it so long as you stuck around.
The next few days were designated to celebration. The biggest festival being held as soon as Strawhat woke up from his injuries. Which just so happened to be today.
He walked around the various stalls with his first mate. Seemingly looking for something. When he couldn't find it, he decided to ask for help.
“Hey, Zoro?”
“Yeah?”
“You've drunk a bunch of alcohol right?”
Zoro eyed him with confusion.
“Yes?”
“Could you tell me which’s the best rum?”
He had to do a double take to make sure he heard his captain correctly. Luffy? Wanting to find good alcohol? Luffy, who never drank, wanted rum??? Maybe Kaido had knocked a few screws loose.
“Why do you wanna know? Trying to celebrate like a real pirate this time?” He teased.
“No. It's for Y/n.”
“Sparrow? Are you gonna ask them to join our crew?” Because he couldn't fathom another reason Luffy would go out of his way for you.
“Maybe.”
The truth was, Luffy wanted to celebrate with you. You tried to buy time on the rooftop. Tried to save Nami when Kaido was about to attack. He was appreciative of all of it. He hadn't seen you since the battle. Since he'd used Gear 5.
His haki could seek you out in this new form. And it had. He'd felt it the moment his eyes landed on you. The call to freedom. It was loud and alive.
He wanted to see what it'd be like to have the feeling consume you. Let the fire set you ablaze. He was entertainment to you, and that was fine. You were entertainment to him, too. Fun in the freedom he'd sought out.
He found you later that night. You were sitting at one of the vendor’s booths. Watching the fireworks go off with a drink in your hand. You smiled when you saw him, patting the seat next to you. He extended the bottle towards you almost shyly.
“It's the good stuff this time. I had Zoro pick it out.” He explained, remembering all the times you complained about getting sake.
You popped off the lid and took a sip. Your posture immediately relaxing.
“A man after my own heart,” you cooed before extending the bottle back to him.
“Here, let's share.”
He looked at it for a second. Then back to you. You had an easy going smirk. Weightless and content. Not like you were silently plotting. So he takes the bottle and tilts his head back. He regrets it as soon as he does it. Making a sour face and giving you back your rum.
“Why is it spicy?”
You can't help but laugh at him.
“You're a light weight. I’d say water it down, but what's the fun in that?”
He pouts, trying to take the bottle back to salvage his pride. You don't let him, keeping it just out of reach.
“Do tell what's next, Joy Boy.” You tease.
“Don't call me that. I'm still Luffy.”
He's still the trusting fool you'd met in Dressrosa.
“We'll go whenever the log pose takes us next. Hopefully to the next Road Ponyglyph.” He answers before questioning you.
“What's your plan?”
You open your compass for what feels like the hundredth time. You know where it'll be pointing without looking. It's at Luffy.
“Stuck with you.” You responded.
“Good.”
“Good?” You raise a brow at that.
“I like having you around. And your power’s pretty cool.”
Nobody's ever said it was good to have you around.
“Well let's hope you keep having what I want.” You hide under the brim of your hat.
“I thought I was what you wanted.” He says bluntly.
“You could be, if you're willing to work for it.” The flirtatious edge is back in your tone.
A pleasant shudder runs down his spine. He decides he likes when you talk to him like that. Just you.
Luffy flocks to you. It's not infatuation. It's admiration. You are the very definition of freedom. You march to the beat of your own drum. And it calls to him. He feeds off it. He wants you to keep following him around. To be what your compass always points towards.
He likes the challenge you bring. Knowing you're not permanently his, but that he has to earn your attention. You keep him on his toes. You don't fawn over him or try to tie him down.(Like a certain snake princess) Instead, it feels like he's the one doing the chasing. He's the one trying to get you to stay. And he likes it.
He likes chasing freedom.
Luffy wasn't much of a drinker. Yet here he was passing the bottle back and forth with you. A dopey smile on his face as he listened to you ramble on about your old crew. He's practically got hearts in his eyes when you tell him about your fight with a kraken.
“If I didn't know any better, I'd say he was flirting.” Sanji comments from a little ways away. The other Strawhats nod along, picking up on their captain’s strange behavior.
Luffy takes a second to process his words. When he finally does, he practically lights up.
“Hmmm, yeah!”
“HUH!?!” the entire crew gapes at him in shock.
“I guess I am flirting.”
He has no shame or embarrassment admitting it. A go-getter who knows what he wants. The embodiment of a God had his sights set on you. You're not intimidated by it. No sudden urge to be a better person. It's as you said before, you won't let someone else change you.
“Well aren't you just sweet? You want to be mine?” You questioned.
He nods drunkenly against you. He’s hanging onto your every word, and it makes your heart thud. You lean your face closer to his, watching him eagerly follow suit. His forehead rests against yours softly. Right as he's about to close the gap, you put your hat on his face with a light shove.
“Work for it then.”
There is no sweetness. That's not who you are. But Strawhat doesn't seem to be fazed by it. He adjusts your feathered hat so it sits properly on his head. His cheeks darken in a flush. Pressing closer to you.
“I will. M’ gonna be king of the pirates. So just join my crew already.”
You lift up his chin with the tip of your finger.
“Convince me.”
You get up to leave, taking his beloved straw hat with you.
“I’m gonna head over to the springs. Are you coming with, my jolly sailor bold?”
You'd called him yours.
He practically scrambles up to follow after you.
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An: whoever requested smut of this scenario, I see you and I will do it...eventually. I just wanted to get the fluffier stuff out first. Hope y'all enjoyed!!!!