Chapter Text
They were headed on their way to Dressrossa. The Straw Hat Pirates and the Heart Pirates were in an official alliance, Law having asked Luffy to form one during their time in Punk Hazard. After Law explained that the alliance officially tagged them as being together, Luffy was all for it since they weren’t mated yet and he wanted something to tell the world who his alpha was—it helped that the newspaper printed the news a day later. The omega is ready to challenge anything life has coming at them. Law had lost his Warlord title, but Luffy didn’t care about that! Not when one or both of them was going to become an Emporer. They just needed to get past Dressrossa and then head on to Wano. Easy peasy, if the omega said so himself. Their talk with Mingo over the transponder snail didn't even get him down—Ceasar is their captive and if Mingo doesn’t go with Law's deal, well, Luffy gets to kill Caesar which is a win in his book! Their only hang-up is that they’ll have to travel to one island before the log pose sets course for Doflamingo’s territory, and as they head to this island—Luffy’s crew begins upping their game.
“Traffy’s crew made me feel welcomed and they showed off how awesome they are! They’re a strong bunch, and I’m proud of my alpha for finding them. I want him to feel that way towards you guys, so every one of you needs to show off somehow and treat him like the Alpha Leader because he’ll be that whenever he gets me the right gift!” Luffy commanded his crew. They were holding a meeting within the lounge, making sure Law and their two new friends couldn’t hear a thing. They have been out at sea for a full day since leaving Punk Hazard, and Law hadn’t gotten to be around his crew much because Luffy took up all his time. The rest of their journey is going to be different. The alpha is going to see the best sides of his packmates, and Luffy will take it as a compliment if Law asks to keep one for himself—just as Luffy does regarding Bepo.
First up, Sanji:
The omega is not one to brag, but his food will leave anyone feeling as if they tasted the universe. His dishes entice a person's pallet into a dance of colorful taste. The mixtures Sanji has cultivated are from his deep sense of observation. He considers people's reactions to certain flavors, noting which ones make that person's eyes widen from sheer delight. Even before Observation Haki, Sanji understood what people wanted to eat. Granted, he hasn't spent much time with Law and is going by what Luffy tells him. According to Luffy, Law likes balanced meals, hates bread, and is 50/50 when it comes to sweets. Not much information to go by, but he never expected Luffy to be into food the same way as he is, so the younger omega will only ever note the obvious. That is perfectly fine because Sanji is a master in his art. He can take on any culinary challenge and come out the other side as the victor.
What he starts with is breakfast, arguably the most important meal of the day. For Law, Sanji decides the man will prefer something light, but will give him energy. He decides to make oatmeal with berries and apples, and he partners it with a smoked salmon and cream cheese omelet.
As he sets the bowl and plate before the dark-haired alpha, Sanji keeps his head bowed in respectful submission. Law and Luffy are the first in the kitchen—mostly due to Luffy never wanting to be late for any meal so he practically dragged his alpha out of their nest. The others will arrive a bit later, giving Sanji enough prep time to make their meals. Right now his sole focus is on Law—Sanji doesn't even go to make Luffy a plate yet. He must keep his eyes averted, but he's waiting for the alpha's reaction. If something is wrong with the meal then Sanji will correct it right away—Law’s comfort is the priority. Luffy understands this, and that's why he's not shouting for Sanji to feed him too. The younger omega has a frozen smile, his fingers fiddle with the hem of his hoodie, and his eyes are dead set on Law's mouth as the alpha brings the first spoonful of oatmeal to it. Law chews and then swallows before moving on to take a bite of the omelet. Luffy feels like he's sitting on pins and needles, and Sanji isn't faring any better. Sanji understands the importance of impressing Luffy's mate. As Omega Leader, Luffy's pack is a representation of himself, and what omegas crave is their alpha's approval. Luffy will be the king of the pirates, so Sanji must show the world that a king only eats the best made by the best . The older omega almost jumps when Law lets out a content-sounding hum. “My compliments to you, Black Leg-ya—I can say you're a more skilled chef than even mine. Yesterday’s food was well, and I'm imagining the rest of today won't disappoint either,” Law said. A sense of pride welled up within Sanji as he lowered his head more in thanks. “Hahee! Sanji is the best chef I know, so get ready for not just another day of good food, but a whole bunch of days!” Luffy announced—his voice carried a tone that informed Sanji how pleased he was, and Sanji relished in his Omega Leader's approval. “Now it's my turn, Sanji! I’M STARVING!”
Following his victory over breakfast, Sanji became confident as the day progressed. It's usual for him to spend a lot of time in the kitchen—always preparing one thing or another for his crewmates, but he's taking it a bit far this time around. Everyone helps maintain a tidy ship, although the main upkeep is done by Sanji and Luffy. It's mostly an omega thing to want to keep a space clean and comforting for their packmates. They're spurred to offer the best of environments and it honestly brings them joy. That's why he feels bad for neglecting his other duties to meal prep—Luffy has done the same so he can be with Law. It helps that his packmates tell him not to worry as they'll pick up the slack. Everyone has taken to heart the command Luffy gave. They all want to please their future Alpha Leader, and no one person is less important in doing so. Sanji keeps this in mind as he steps out with a tray of light snacks and nice tea to wash them down.
“These snacks are a hardened cream that isn't overly sweet and dissolves in your mouth without leaving residue on your tongue. If you swiftly dip the cream into the tea then you'll find the cream's consistency will change and possibly take on a different flavor,” Sanji explains as he serves Law first. The alpha is sitting under the tree with Luffy in his lap, and he holds onto the younger when he attempts to move—most likely to allow Law to eat easier. Instead, the alpha uses a single hand to place the tea and treats beside him. He then takes a blue cream treat and pops it into his mouth. “Surprisingly cool in temperature and the texture becomes soft if you leave it on your tongue. They taste great, Black Leg-ya,” Law complimented. Sanji is again preening from the compliment. He serves Luffy and is on his way to Robin, Nami, and Brook—they are sitting nearby at the table they set out for nice weather. The older omega hadn’t taken a step away when he's stopped by Law. “You have been showing great care with the meals presented to me. I feel a bit undeserving since I caused you pain on Punk Hazard.”
“It wasn't much of an issue,” Sanji said, going for a polite dismissal, but feeling strained because it had been an issue. “As long as you don't ever pull that shit again with me —me and you will be fine.” Oh, Sanji said that last bit with a biting edge. It surprises him and when he chances a glance at Law—the alpha is also taken aback. “Roronoa-ya mentioned that the bond felt split, but otherwise he wasn't overly affected. How did it feel like for you?” Sanji isn't sure if he should answer because he feels snap-ish on the inside. His instincts tell him to berate Law for the bullshit he pulled by switching his soul with Nami, but he's trying to think reasonably. Zoro had explained why Law did what he did, and Sanji comprehended that the alpha hadn't known any better. He's going to attempt to keep his temperament in check because he'll be damned if he's the reason for any strife with Luffy's alpha. “I felt wrong. For one thing, my soul as an omega was placed in the body of a beta and my instincts went on the fritz. Nami’s body wasn't acting the same as my soul so it was like I was fighting against it. The second thing I could see was my body, and I saw someone else wearing Zoro's mark — my mark . It pissed me the fuck off, making me jealous and possessive too because only I should know what it feels like to have Zoro's mark—to have a bond with him. Nami said she didn't notice any connection, but she could tell how my body reacted to certain stimuli caused by Zoro through our bond. I could still feel Zoro which helped a lot. I just couldn't communicate right with him because I wasn't in sync. The whole experience is something I never want to go through again . I'm still getting over the resentment I feel towards Nami. Which is ridiculous because it's not like Zoro is suddenly mated to her, but the memory of her in my body pops up from time to time.”
Law looked strained, and Sanji wondered if he should have kept his mouth shut. The older omega fished around for anything to say that would ease the alpha, but he didn't get to speak before Law did. “I am sincere when I say that I am truly sorry. I hadn’t realized the magnitude of how Soul Transplant will affect a mated couple. My experience with the attack has only ever been against betas, but that still doesn’t excuse it. I will need to rectify my actions,” Law said to the omega. Sanji floundered and for a moment forgot social dynamic cues as he waved his hand frantically and told Law he didn’t need to do such a thing. “It’s in the past!” Sanji exclaimed. The alpha shook his head—a resigned look crossing his face. “Luffy-ya,” Law said. The younger omega had been silently watching the interaction but looked up at his alpha when his name was said. “Which of your crew do you think could understand how to use my power the best?” The alpha asked, and there wasn’t any need for him to elaborate because Luffy understood where Law was going with this. Luffy didn’t necessarily want his alpha to put himself through discomfort, yet he knew Law needed to feel what Sanji had—if only to truly show he was apologetic. “Robin is very smart and patient,” Luffy replied. Law nodded “Nico-ya!”
“Yes, Law?”
“With your permission—I’d like to switch bodies with you.”
Robin stood up from her chair and came closer to Law—she appeared intrigued, yet weary at the same time. “I’m willing if you need me to, but is that alright?” Robin directed the question at her Captain, receiving a nod in turn. “Well then, I’m ready when you are, Alpha.”
“ Room! ” A blue sphere encompassed the four people, and Brook and Nami got up from the table to get a closer look at what was about to happen. “ Soul Transplant! ”
Sanji watched as the room disappeared and Luffy leep from Law’s— Robin’s lap. It seemed so strange when the Law’s typical rough features changed to that of a more delicate look. The same went for Robin’s—a scowl overtaking her usual feminine grace. “This is… an odd experience,” Law spoke through Robin’s mouth. Robin lifted a hand to her chin as she took in her new body's responses. Alphas and omegas have the most heightened senses compared to betas, so Robin isn’t used to input that has rushed her. Sounds, scents, and the atmosphere—all the data made her want to flinch from how potent they came off. Not only that, but she feels a sort of rejection as if the body itself knew the wrong soul was in it. “Nami, when you were stuck in Sanji’s body—did you feel as though it was trying to evict you?” Robin asked the orange-haired beta. “Something like that. I felt disconnected from it because instinct wanted Sanji’s body to do one thing while I wanted it to do something else. It seems dumb, but I felt like the longer I was in his body—the more agitated it became with me and wanted me out.”
“I feel a watered-down version of what you explained, probably due to only just taking over, but Law—is that how you feel in mine?” Robin asked. She didn’t receive an immediate response and that’s when she noticed two things—the reason why Law is silent is because he’s looking at Luffy, and he’s looking at Luffy because the omega is staring at Robin like he wanted to kill her. Robin had been caught up in her curiosity and hadn’t noticed the dangerous haze exuding from Luffy. It made her freeze, for she felt if she moved an inch then her life would end in that moment. “ Switch. Back. ” Luffy gritted out in a heated breath. The Straw Hats are used to receiving nips from Luffy when certain situations call for him to cement his role as Omega Leader, but they’ve never been on the receiving end of his actual rage . That’s when Sanji begins to panic and a wave of guilt blankets him. What Law and Robin have done is different than when Sanji and Nami switched. If Zoro had witnessed the changing of bodies—he would have held it together because he’s an alpha. Jealousy is an emotion everyone feels, and alphas can feel it more in certain circumstances, but alphas and betas will never match an omega. If it had been Zoro who switched with Nami—Sanji isn’t sure he would have been able to keep from hurting her. It’s been said once and it will be said over again—omegas don’t share.
It takes five hours for Robin to get the hang of using Law’s power and switching their bodies back. During that time, the rest of the crew had been gathered, and even Kin’emon and Momonosuke were asked to join because it took all of them to keep Luffy restrained. The young omega didn’t like Robin moving any part of Law’s body and as he continued to watch her—he became more and more agitated. Luffy, for his part, fought against his instincts because even he understood irrationality. That being said—it didn’t matter how irrational it was to feel hatred toward Robin—the omega was pissed. It would have helped if Law could have used his alpha influence, but Robin’s body didn’t allow for such a thing, and Luffy didn’t take kindly to Law using Robin’s body either. The omega had been told to leave, but wouldn’t—then shit really hit the fan when Robin mentioned needing to use the restroom. Hence why everyone else had been called to restrain the Captain, and Chopper had tried putting Luffy to sleep, but the omega was too stubborn to be taken down that easily. It fell heavily on Zoro to keep such a strong individual in check—at some point, he had to resort to using Haki, and it said something when more than once Luffy's own nearly drowned him.
By the end, everyone was exhausted and sought out alone time to rest from the whole ordeal. Law ended up having to carry Luffy as the omega finally gave in to the drugs Chopper dosed him with. Law intended to take the omega to bed and then find the restroom. As he walked to go inside the Sunny, he stopped Sanji before the older omega could head into the kitchen. “Omega Second,” Law called out to Sanji—the alpha putting deep respect into the title. Sanji had been about to go into the kitchen but forwent that to jump down and meet up with Law. “Today I’m sure took a turn you hadn’t intended to take,” Law said when Sanji stood in front of him. Sanji let out a huff because it had. He meant to engage Law’s pallet with his cooking and instead created a mess because Law wanted to prove he was sorry. “You might feel terrible about today’s ordeal, but you don’t understand how grateful I am for it.”
Sanji blinked. “I don’t understand?”
“By nature, I’ve always been a curious person, and even more so when it comes to the human body and soul. Today I learned what havoc my power can cause—although I will never switch any of your bodies again—that doesn’t mean I won’t do this to our enemies. It may seem a bit overboard, but should we face alphas and omegas, more specifically mated ones—I won’t hesitate to cause them trouble by switching around their souls.”
There is an earnestness within Law’s voice that makes Sanji feel better. It also helped how excited Law seemed toward the end of his words—the alpha’s want for mayhem does not come as a surprise as Sanji is an omega and wouldn’t expect anything less from the man who will mate with his Captain. All in all—Sanji earned a point for his crew.
Second up, Zoro:
At the Baratie, Zoro had promised Luffy that he would never again lose a fight. Zoro, like with everything, took his promise seriously. It would be a point of shame to him and his Captian should an enemy outright defeat Zoro if he engaged them. Not just enemies either, friendly challenges are also fights Zoro refuses to lose. Any time he’s spared with Brook—the skeleton never stood a chance because Zoro goes easy on no one and is determined to come out on top. It’s not even entirely an alpha thing—that’s just how Zoro is. That’s why it speaks volumes to how much respect he wants to give Law and wishes for the other alpha to defeat him.
They stand on a large round rock that is protruding from the ocean. It’s not an island, and they only happened upon it by chance, but Zoro had requested they set anchor temporarily at the rock. Luffy obliged out of the sense that something fun would come from it. The omega is right when Zoro trudges up to Law and bows his head in submissive respect. “Alpha Leader Trafalgar Law, I would ask if you’re willing to have a sparing match with me,” Zoro asked. Law tilted his head, looking at the green-haired alpha with interest. “Sure,” Law replied.
It might seem weird that the way Zoro wants to endear his crew to Law is by fighting the man, but as alphas—this is one of the proper ways. It does two things that will satisfy both parties—Zoro gets to show off his strength as Alpha Second to Luffy, and Law will prove why he’s the only one who can be Luffy’s mate. So the two hopped over to the round rock, an audience looking at them from aboard the Sunny—the main on-looker being Luffy who vibrated with anticipation.
They stood, squaring off with each other, and a smirk graced Zoro's face. “I think it's only right that we have two rules. Don't kill each other and don't go into Mindful Berserker ,” Zoro said, unsheathing Sandai Kitetsu. Law unsheathed Kikoku and twirled the long sword in his hands. “Then loss will be through your submission,” Law replied—purposefully cheeky. His cocky attitude earned him a chuckle from the green-haired alpha. “I'd expect nothing less.”
Zoro took off after speaking, attempting a swift frontal attack to catch his opponent off guard. His sword is deflected, however—Law having raised his own in time, and the clashing of steel sent sparks flying. The older alpha pushed back the other and came chasing after him. Clang! Clang! Clang! The sound of steel against steel kept echoing over the waters. “I believe we have warmed up enough,” Law says when he's put distance between himself and Zoro. “Agreed. It wouldn't do for our battle to put us behind schedule,” Zoro replied. The green-haired alpha cracks his neck and unsheaths Wado Ichimonji, placing the white handle into his mouth, and then moves to unsheath Shusui. As he prepares to fight with three swords, Law summons his Room to encompass the entire rock platform. Zoro has seen Law use his Devil Fruit on Punk Hazard, but it's something else being on the receiving end. As their battle progressed Law cuts one of Zoro's arms, having aimed high enough above the Armament Haki-coated portion. Zoro can continue fighting if he's cut in half, but he will say that losing his arm threw him off. Law also didn't give him breathing room to learn how to fight one limb down. If anything, Zoro began to realize Law was bullying him into doing certain moves and that's when it became clear to Zoro just how tactful Law is. When it comes to fighting—Zoro is adept at reading his opponent's movements and using his natural instincts to guide him when to go defensive instead of staying on the offense. The younger alpha is smart that way. Law though—that alpha has a natural intelligence that surpasses Zoro's. The older alpha plans ten steps ahead and uses his instincts to guide his concocted plan along. Alphas are always scheming things, seeing how to handle situations for their benefit—Law is just above Zoro in that regard and it makes Zoro happy. He's pushed to go into a Frenzied Rage to hold out longer against Law, and as a way of respect—Law answered with his own Rage that sealed the outcome of the fight. Zoro, as he stares at the raging alpha before him, can say he's fighting a formidable foe who is worthy of being mated to the king of the pirates.
Law is victorious as he holds one foot over the cut heart that belongs to his opponent, hovering inches above it—only needing so much force to squish the organ into smithereens. The two alphas are sweaty and breathing laboriously, yet only one of them keeps their head held high while standing tall. Zoro goes onto his knees and bares his throat to the Alpha Leader—such a display of submission is not to be taken lightly. The throat is such a vulnerable target and for anyone to bare it meant they willingly put their life in the dominate’s hands. Law’s grin is too wide as he looks at his Alpha Second, for he is pleased to have shown his might before his intended mate and he recognizes one of the reasons why Luffy trusts Zoro so much. Zoro has proven his worth as Alpha Second and there is a pinch of giddiness that blooms within Zoro.
Before Law dissipates his Room, he reattaches Zoro's missing arm, then he steps away from the heart on the ground. “Come take your heart,” Law orders. “We need to resume our course and I'm rather thirsty. Would your mate mind serving us something refreshing?” Zoro reaches out to grasp his heart—still offering his neck. “It would be his joy to serve you,” the younger alpha replies, putting his heart back in his chest.
Once back on board the Sunny, enjoying a pink drink Sanji whipped up, Zoro basks in the knowledge that he earned his crew another point with Law.
Third up, Nami:
Nami is surprised that she finds herself walking on eggshells around Law. It's not that she thinks one minor thing will make him snap, but when it comes to disciplining her Captain—she refrains from doing so. It's no secret that as fearsome as Luffy is—he can be quite the dumbass. Omegas are known for doing crazy things others wouldn't do, but there is a difference between crazy and plain stupidity. There has never been much middle ground when Luffy is involved. The young man slingshots from one emotion to another, making it impossible for him to think everything through, so there are times when the crew will smack their Captain if only to teach important lessons. Nami has lost count as to how many times she pummeled the brat. She's honest when she says she prefers when Luffy acts as an Omega Leader, bringing forth the urge to submit because sometimes it's tiring to have to beat sense into Luffy. The punk seldom learns. With Law around though, the burden is meant for him only—it would be disrespectful to lay hands on Luffy even if Nami is his pack mate. That omega though—he doesn't make it an easy rule to adhere to.
“Why can't we follow the fish!” Luffy protested. “It's a giant swarm, and it wouldn't take us long to catch all of them. We can get back on course right after!” Nami steadfastly ignored her Omega Captain. The beta kept her eyes trained forward and prepared herself in case Luffy used underhanded tactics—which is him using his omeganess against her like he always does with the crew whenever he wants something. She'd have preferred if her Captain would have remained entertained by Law, but the alpha is down inside the Sunny, interrogating Caesar. Law forbade the omega from helping with the interrogation as the first two times almost saw the omega murdering the wispy beta. This is why he's bugging Nami—she is his desired choice for entertainment. “Zoro did right by the pack, but his duel with Law has put us behind schedule. If I detour for a school of stupid fish, then Law's plans will be ruined. I'm not going to be the reason anything goes wrong for the alpha,” Nami replies, the last sentence being said with determination. She's been having trouble proving herself to Law—her hand-drawn maps being the only thing she could think of to show she's smart. The beta excels at cartography, but it would have been better to show how she handles the boat while on stormy waters—the thing is they've been having good weather—and someone needs to explain why the New World decides now to be all sunshine. So without the ability to show off her navigation skills during dire circumstances, Nami is left with showing her competency by getting them to the island before Dressrossa.
“ Nami~~~ ” Luffy whines. Omega whines don’t necessarily affect betas the same way they do alphas, but the issue with Luffy is that his sway is strong because he is strong. Nami hates, and she means hates , how utterly manipulative her Omega Leader is. The beta has to grip the helm tightly, attempting to ground herself. “ W-why are you being s-so mean to me, My Beta? ” Luffy stutters out with a hiccup. Damn it! Nami closes her eyes because this isn’t the first time, nor will it be the last time her Captain cries crocodile tears while stuttering all pathetic-like. She will not give in though—her point with Law matters much more. “ B-b-beta? Don’t i-ignore me! ” A full-blown wail escapes from the young omega, and he hugs Nami, crying into her shoulder. “ You h-hate me—don’t you, B-beta! Y-you don’t wanna be mine, o-or listen to me anymore! ” That last comment—that’s the one that gets Nami to look at her Captain. No one, not even Luffy, should question how loyal she is to her Omega Leader. For Luffy to think it causes the female beta to feel awful. Maybe she is being too mean. Their aquarium is low on edible sea life, so they are due for a round-up of fish. Not only that but how can she call herself a skilled navigator if she thinks a school of fish will set them off course too much? She can make her Captain happy and see to it that they set a course with quicker waves to aid them. “Of course, I want to be your beta,” she says to Luffy, turning in his arms to hug him back. She runs a soothing hand down his backside and lets out a pheromone specific to betas—it's neutral and meant to calm alphas and omegas. Nami can never hope to be as soothing as Luffy or Sanji, but it makes her smile when Luffy’s tears die down. “ Does that mean we’ll follow the fish? ” The omega asks tentatively. “Yes, it does. Go grab Usopp so he can help you haul in the big load you're bound to get.”
Luffy runs off with a carefree smile, and Nami smiles along with him, but as she turns the helm—it drops from the realization that her Captain played her — again ! Whatever, she can’t have regrets now—she just has to mussel through the current situation and everything will be fine.
It’s not hard to catch up with the swimming fish. They appeared to be keeping a straight path, so the Sunny was maneuvered to sail alongside them. Franky ended up getting involved with the overly hyper Luffy and Usopp as he had to build them a giant net to scoop up the fish. The school is so big that they had to empty the net several times—only being halted by Sanji when he complained about the aquarium bursting from the surplus of sea life. Luffy looked forlorn at having to let the other fish go free, but Nami was relieved that they didn’t need to follow them anymore. She looked at her Log Pose. During their pursuit of the fish, the beta had been keeping track of how many miles they were off course. They went further than she wanted, but the area they’ve stopped in has an interesting current. The ocean waters were traveling backward and the Sunny had been fighting against it to keep up with the fish that also did the same. Now that the Sunny stopped moving, it was being pulled along without issue. She thinks they can follow it, so Nami orders Franky to turn the helm and get Sunny facing the right direction. What also plays into their favor is that the wind is blowing in the same direction as the current and the Sunny is suddenly speeding along. Nami feels good because with how everything is going—it would be like they never were off course in the first place. All the good weather they'd been having had lulled the beta into a false sense of calm because of course the sky would start to darken when things were running smoothly.
The waters turn choppy and the once helpful current now made them rocket uncontrollably forward. Their new speed made it feel as though someone activated a Coupe De Burst, and Nami’s instinct told her if they didn’t get out of this predicament then they were fucked.
“What is going on?” Law questions, having come topside after being thrown about while interrogating Ceasar. The alpha finds it difficult to walk from the turbulent waves moving the Sunny and the forceful wind that threatens to send his hat flying, and him along with it. He makes his way to Nami who is directing everyone with stern shouts, and he’s amazed at how smooth Luffy’s crew moves to follow her commands. “Now Zoro!” Nami yells before Law can offer his assistance. The green-haired swordsman moves to the bow of the Sunny and he jumps up with all three of his swords in attack position. “ Tatsu Maki! ” The ocean waters in front of them are slashed and a giant waterspout forms, pushing the hectic water away and creating a clear path for the Sunny to sail along. Zoro runs to the stern, jumping high, and uses the same technique, only this time the wind from the waterspout pushes the Sunny forward at an incredible speed. A rubber arm stretches out to catch Zoro before he can be left behind and soon enough the Sunny with her occupants have cleared the storm, and have been put back on course.
Everyone is breathing heavily after the storm debacle, but there are smiles all around at having come out the other side alive. “How badly did the storm push us back, or hinder our route?” Law asks Nami once the beta has recomposed herself. She looks at him with a triumphant smile. “It didn’t do either! We’re actually further along because of it, and I say it saved us another day or so,” Nami replied—all too pleased with the outcome. Law hummed—his eyes catching sight of Zoro and he hailed him. “Excellent thinking, Alpha Second. Your swordsmanship saved us and for that I am grateful.” Zoro waved a hand in dismissal. “I would happily accept such a compliment, but that was all Nami’s idea. She figured out how to use the storm to our advantage and how to get out of it.” Law turned to the female beta and scrutinized her closely. It felt awkward to have the alpha’s attention on her, but Nami didn’t move, allowing Law to make his assessment of her.
“Nami!” Luffy called, joining the three. He jumped onto his alpha's back, clinging to his shoulders as he rested his head on top of Law's. “I'm sorry for making you chase the fish. We probably would have missed the storm if we didn't chase them.”
“You took a detour for fish?” Law questioned. Nami's cheeks began to redden. There isn't any accusation in Law's words, but that didn't stop the beta from feeling stupid. She should have fought harder against Luffy instead of giving in to his whims. “Yeah! Nami didn't want to but I convinced her!”
“That would explain it,” Law said, knowing very well how Luffy convinced his crew to do anything he wanted. “Navigator-ya deserves many apologies and I am impressed with how well she handled the sudden change in circumstances. It must be difficult for you to balance being both this ship's navigator, and my mate’s babysitter.”
“Luffy is never any trouble!” Nami responded quickly. She forgot all sense of displaying any submission as she desperately tried to wave away Law’s worries. “It’s always been easy for me to read the weather, and Luffy’s decisions are fun in the end.” Law gave a half smile at the beta and then reached up to pull Luffy by the hair—a gentle chastisement that the omega begrudgingly accepted. “I still would like to apologize on behalf of my omega, although your modesty is appreciated. Also, please accept my compliments. Bepo is my navigator and his animal instincts work wonders in keeping my crew safe, but I have to say yours rival his own. I believe you even have one over my navigator as you’re human and a beta. Your instincts are entirely yours by nature.”
“Thank you, Alpha Leader,” Nami said, lowering her head in both respect and bashfulness.
“Let's go, Luffy-ya. You’ve pestered your navigator long enough. I’ll let you help me speak with that Gassy Bitch if you try not to hurt him,” Law says, walking away with Luffy still hanging onto him. “He’s the one that starts it!” Luffy said defensively. “I don’t like it whenever anyone says anything bad about my alpha.” Law chuckled and the two continued on—their conversation continuing as they entered into the Sunny.
“Good job,” Zoro speaks up, clapping a hand on Nami’s shoulder. “I’m pretty sure you earned us another point with man.”
Nami couldn’t begin to express how pleased she was, and maybe it wasn’t so bad that Luffy manipulated convinced her to catch some fish.
Fourth up, Usopp and Franky:
If there is one person most fitting to win over the Straw Hat Pirate’s Alpha Leader, then that would be Captain Usopp—the notorious Sniper King and rowdy beta. His tales of destruction and heroic feats are sure to enrapture anyone who listens to them. Law is as good as hooked… that’s the truth Usopp tries to convince himself of. If he’s being truthful—like he always is—the alpha scares the every living crap out of him! Zoro can be scary, but he’s an utter dummy that can’t find his way two steps to the left and that sleeps all day. Law on the other hand is a Captain too, held the title of Warlord—if only for a moment, cut out 100 hearts, saved his Omega Leader from death, cut a mountain in half, fought Smoker, and so much more! Usopp can weave the most convincing of lies truths, yet they can’t possibly be enough to impress the alpha. He needs to genuinely show off his skills and his greatest is his honest sharpshooting capabilities. How does he do that though? They’ve been traveling on the water for days now, but—besides that storm—they haven’t encountered any enemies or Sea Kings. There is nothing Usopp can shoot— unless he can make something to shoot.
“FRANKY!” Usopp calls out as he opens the door to Franky’s workshop. The cyborg is hunched over a piece of metal he’s welding and doesn’t look up as he addresses the other beta. “What can I do you for, Long Nose Buddy!”
“You know how we’re supposed to be earning points with Ttaffy?” Usopp says, moving to stand in front of the larger beta. “Yeah. I’m actually super stumped on how to do that,” Franky admits as he frowns at his work. “I keep trying to make something awesome to impress our future Alpha Leader, but everything I make is lame and boring and sucks!” The larger beta has become quite depressed over his predicament. He’s been pouring over blueprints that immediately get crumbled up, and Franky had even resorted to calling up Ice-for-brains if only to get one good idea. The guy honestly hadn’t thought it would be that hard to impress the alpha. Sanji, Zoro, and Nami already have done their part—Franky needs to pull his weight because he won’t be the reason Law is disappointed in Luffy’s crew.
“Chin up, my friend!” Usopp exclaims. “I came here because I had an inkling you needed my help, so I’ve graciously decided to team up with you. Together we can combine both of our smarts and win over Mr. Tall, dark, and grumpy.”
Franky roughly pushed aside the project he was working on and locked into whatever Usopp had planned for them. “I'm thinking you can show off your engineering skills by building a monstrous, robotic enemy that I then get to shoot down! Traffy will be impressed by my marksmanship and we'll have earned two points in one go. How's that sound?” Usopp explained, acting overly elaborate as he did so. Franky mulled the idea over and felt like they would be putting on a show—which seemed cool as hell. “Alright, I dig what you're putting down,” Franky replied, leaving his work area to find himself a piece of paper. “How about an ocean basilisk?”
Usopp nodded vigorously. “Yeah, yeah! Uh— what is that though?”
“Oh, you'll see when I'm done,” Franky said cryptically. “Hey, do you think we should rope in the others? Like we can't have them taking the spotlight from us. We should warn them because it'll suck major dick if they're the ones attacking. Zoro is cool and all—I just don't want broski to one-shot my invention. Sanji either, for that matter.”
Usopp grabbed his chin in thought. “Makes sense. We just have to make sure not to tell Luffy. That guy can't keep a secret to save his life! He'd ruin the whole thing without trying.”
“It's settled then, Nose Bro. I'll get to work and you get to explain to everyone else!”
Franky got down to sketching his version of a basilisk while Usopp went to speak with everyone who wasn't Luffy and Law. Surprisingly, the amount of support Usopp received was far beyond what he imagined. Momonosuke is the most eager to act as the helpless victim the basilisk abducts. The kid wanted to brandish his acting chops which got Usopp excited about writing a whole script. Out of all the people onboard, the Sunny—Zoro and Sanji gave him the most cause for concern. Their version of acting is too stunted, meaning Luffy would be fooled, but Law is another matter. The male beta is apprehensive that the alpha will see right through the act. Since Usopp has no other plans to work with, he'll just cross his fingers that Law is extra dumb when the time comes.
“I haven't told Luffy anything since he'd spoil the secret so remember to block him from attacking. I'm sure he won't if I say I got it handled since he's supportive that way, but you never know with him,” Usopp said. Franky finished the basilisk in perfect timing, so the beta gathered everyone for a pre-show talk. This will be the performance for the ages and Usopp will ensure they earn two points from their Alpha Leader. “Sanji should be bringing them out of the kitchen any moment, so the last thing I'll leave you with is—if something messes up then improv! Whatever you do—don’t break character. Got it?”
Everyone voiced their acknowledgment of Usopp’s words, and not a moment later they could hear Sanji loudly announce the arrival of their audience. “THE FRESH AIR BRINGS OUT THE TASTE OF MY GREEN TEA TEMPURA CONES!” Sanji shouts louder than necessary. Usopp facepalms, yet Sanji's tactic is effective at getting people to scatter. “YOU'LL NOTICE HOW THEY PUFF UP MORE WITH THE SEA BREEZE!” Following Sanji is Law—who winces at the cook's unnatural volume, having thought only Luffy could be so deafening, and Luffy—who is drooling because he can't eat the snacks until his alpha takes one first. “IF YOU FOLLOW ME GENTLEMAN TO THE STARBOARD SIDE—YOU'LL FIND MY FOOD WILL TASTE BETTER THERE! THE BREEZE IS REALLY BLOWING FROM THAT DIRECTION!” Also sitting on the starboard side is Momonosuke, and Sanji acts too startled by his presence. “MOMONOSUKE! WHAT A PLEASANT SURPRISE?” The boy is sitting on the ship's railing and pulls Sanji down when the cook is near. “Stop yelling! You're being too conspicuous!” Momonosuke whisper-yells into Sanji's ear. The cook clears his throat as he stands up. “Would you like to taste my newest snack, Momonosuke? After Traffy tries them of course,” Sanji asks in his normal tone. “Yes, Mr. Cook!”
Sanji sets the snacks on the railing and moves out of the way to allow the alpha access. From where Law stands, the incoming breeze delivers the enchanting smell of the tempura. Law would be unashamed to say his mouth began to water and he probably would look like his mate if he didn't take a bite of the food. He grabbed the biggest of the cone-shaped snacks, bringing it to his mouth and biting into it with vigor. The taste is something surprisingly creamy with a crunchy texture. “You’ve outdone yourself again—” Law doesn't get to finish his compliment before his instincts warn him to look toward the sea. A dark shadow appears not a moment later before the water is being breached and out comes a Sea King with two heads. The waves caused by the giant creature rock the Sunny harshly. Law hears a sudden startled cry and the splashing of something, or someone falling into the ocean. “Momonosuke!” Sanji cries out—slumped over the railing. The Sea King screeches—one of its heads diving toward Momonosuke—who's head just popped up from the water. Law intended to cut the creature down—Kikoku always in his hands, but he doesn't get the chance to do anything as there is a sharp whistle in the air. Something hits the head going for the boy—followed by a loud explosion. Chunks of Sea King are sent through the air and the remaining head screeches in anger.
“C-captain Usopp!” Sanji exclaims, laying on thick his amazement. The older omega is pointing at the Crow's Nest and Law looks up to see Long Nose standing with his chest puffed out, Kuro Kabuto held up, and blinding light behind him (The light is thanks to Nami using mirrors to direct the sun's light onto Usopp). The beta looked like a hero and Law could hear Luffy gasping in amazement—the omega was always so easily impressed by his silver-tongued friend.
Usopp jumped down, doing a hero's landing—Zoro suddenly appearing next to him (Only those with keen eyes would have been able to see Zoro basically carry Usopp down. He did it so quickly and Law was too distracted to really notice). “Please, great Captain Usopp! You must save Momonosuke!” Kin’emon pleaded, looking every bit faint. “Don't worry! I took off one head. The other won't stand a chance against me for I am the greatest sharpshooter in the world!”
The beta ran up to the railing and climbed it. He stood up with an accusatory finger pointing at the remaining Sea King's head. “Foul beast! It shall be I—master, beta marksman—who will send you back into the black abyss from whence you came!”
“Careful, Long Nose-ya!” Law said, stepping forward, but a hand grabbed him by the shoulder. “There is no need to worry, Alpha,” Robin says. Law looks at her and she gives him her trademark smile. All calm as always—more so since she knows there isn't any genuine danger. “Mr. Marksman can handle the creature alone. He’s done so many times.” Law raised an eyebrow because what he gathered about the crew is that Long Nose is rather cowardly—not that the beta won't fight when commanded by his Omega Leader, but he’s not the one to jump head first into the fray. Plus—“So he understands how a Hydra Sea King works?” Robin kept her smile but then she recalls that Usopp told them Franky was working on an Ocean Basilisk. Things were going to get interesting because Usopp did say to never break character and to resort to improvisation should anything go wrong. “No he hasn’t, but our beta is always one to come up with a plan on the spot,” Robin replies. Law accepts her words—besides his mate didn’t appear worried and was cheering his beta on. What more is a dramatic melody is coming from somewhere, and Law believes he hears Raccoon-ya singing (Brook was placed in charge of the hero’s music while Chopper had been given lyrics from Usopp. A heroic rescue scene is nothing without a good accompanying score).
Another Fire Bird Star is loaded into Kuro Kabuto, and Usopp aims at the remaining head. Franky truly outdid himself! For a moment, even Usopp thought he was fighting a real Sea King—the head explosion had been so realistic. “Hahaha!” The beta laughed confidently. He stared down the Sea King and went to unleash his attack, yet faltered. When he had exploded the first head, its neck had gone limp, but as Usopp looked on—that same neck began to wiggle with life. The mangled flesh began to bubble, and the skin bulged until it burst open. Out popped two new heads. Now, Franky is one smart cookie, yet even Usopp knows he can’t replicate something like that mechanically. “S-shit,” Usopp stutters—his bravado completely leaving him. What the fuck is he supposed to do against that thing? It regenerated it fucking head for crying out loud! That means if he keeps shooting that thing—thousands more will spawn. He's fucked.
“ Kill it, Usopp! ” Luffy shouted encouragingly, and Usopp was grateful at that moment because his Omega Leader added a bit of influence to his words. His Omega Leader believed in him—the beta can't fail.
“ Fire Bird S— ”
He'd been so focused on not letting Luffy down that he accidentally took a step forward, forgetting that he's on the railing so he fell into the ocean. “Mr. Long Nose!” Momonosuke called in concern. Usopp is gasping as he kicks his legs to stay afloat. “I think the show is going off-script!”
“You have no idea!” Usopp responded in distress. He pointed at the Sea King. “That is a real Sea King I just pissed off!” Momonosuke’s eyes widened with fear. The boy swam around Usopp to use the beta as a shield, and the older beta began to flounder. “What are you doing, kid?!”
“You said we're supposed to improv when something goes wrong. That might not be Mr. Cyborg’s work, but you still must defeat it! You must have some attack that will take the beast down in one go?”
“I-I do!” Usopp said, scrambling for his intended ammo. He pulls out a thick glass orb with a green sloshing liquid inside. “ Marimo Blood Ball —it's an acid ball I've only made one of because you have no idea how scary acid is! Any mistake and the thing will eat you alive ! It’s perfect for old Multi Heads over there!”
“Then use it!” The young beta said, pushing Usopp's shoulder in urgency. “Alright! Alright!”
The waves make it difficult for Usopp to aim, but what helps is that one of the Sea King's heads decided to lunge at the two betas—mouth open to swallow them whole. “ Marimo Blood Ball! ” Usopp shouts, firing the projectile. The head catches the ball in its mouth, crunching the glass and then it begins to writhe in severe pain. All the other heads look at the pained one in confusion. They see its jaw begin to melt—the acid traveling down its gullet. The acid will soon reach the Sea King's stomach and melt it from the inside out, but Usopp realizes that the creature still has time to attack. The Sea King is so angry, wanting to at least eat the beta that hurt it before it dies.
“Oh, shit!” Usopp cried, hugging Momonosuke close to him. They both shut their eyes, preparing for the sharp pain of death—unbeknownst to them another fighter had joined in the game.
Coming up from beneath the Sea King, headbutting the creature in the stomach, is a large serpent's head that had a beak instead of a snout. The head is attached to a body with two reptilian arms, dragon-like wings, and legs that look like those of a chicken—only they were covered in rough scales. A long spiked tail proceeded the head and body.
This new challenger shucked the Sea King far into the air, and away from the Sunny. Usopp marveled as he watched the Sea King fly in the opposite direction. It won't come back as the acid will have killed it by then. “We're saved!” Usopp exclaimed in relief. “Woohoo!” Momonosuke hollard. The betas celebrated for about a second until a large shadow loomed over them. Their savior towered menacingly and wisps of smoke billowed from its nostrils. “Come on! Why'd you save us if you're gonna eat us!” Usopp yelled in frightful anger. The creature gave a loud roar, making Usopp think it really was the end for them, but then the creature went unnatural still and a hatch popped open on top of its head. “How'd you guys enjoy the show!” Franky asked, doing his signature pose on top of the beast's head.
Usopp and Momonosuke pulled themselves over the railing at the same time Franky jumped aboard. All three betas were immediately swarmed by their friends—Luffy being the one to encircle them in a big hug. “That was so awesome!” The young omega said with a hearty chuckle. “That Sea King surprised me with the whole growing a new head bit, then I was even more surprised by the giant lizard that sent it to the moon!”
“It's a basilisk,” Franky corrected.
“Bisky?”
“Close enough.”
“I must say Cyborg-ya—your engineering capabilities put most shipwrights to shame,” Law complimented. “The same can be said of your bravery, Long Nose-ya. Hydra Sea Kings are a pain in the ass to deal with, yet you fended it off nicely. Had Cyborg-ya not intervened, that shot you fired would have eventually killed the beast.”
Luffy let go of his betas so that they could bow their heads in submissive respect to Law. They felt absolutely giddy by the compliments and they could feel their crew's approval.
“Although, it does disappoint me that Black Leg-ya’s snacks fell into the ocean when the Sunny was rocked by the waves.”
“THE CONES!” Luffy shouted—aghast. The omega hurried over to the side of the ship, searching the sea in desperation. “I don't see them!” The omega became forlorn because he hadn’t even gotten to taste them, unlike his alpha. “Don't worry, Luffy. I'll make some more—a whole lot more in celebration of Usopp and Franky’s victory.”
The omega didn't need to be told anything else. He hurriedly grabbed his alpha's hand and dragged him toward the kitchen. Sanji shook his head in amusement, heading in the same direction as his leaders. The others also went to follow, intending to lounge about at the dining table as Sanji baked away. Usopp stayed behind though, nudging his elbow against Franky's side. “Hey, I wanted to ask—where the hell were you?! If you had arrived any later then I'd be Sea King food!” Usopp yelled once they were alone. Franky held his hands up in defense. “I totally meant to be on time, my dude. There was a leak and I had to find the sucker. I hit the ascend button as soon as I fixed the hole—honest! I'm just glad Franky Beast Bot #1 ascended where it did. I was SUPER surprised when the system said we ran into something.”
Usopp put his hands on his hips in displeasure, but he supposed no harm was done in the end. Besides—“Two points, Franky! We got two more for our pack!” The duo high-fived and ran to the kitchen, feeling on cloud nine.
Fifth up, Chopper:
It's no secret that the Captain of the Straw Hat Pirates loved to eat. The young omega could eat anyone out of house and home if given the opportunity. That's why Sanji locked up the fridge—it was to ensure most of their food stores would last them longer than an hour. This never deterred Luffy from finding means of sustenance elsewhere. The issue with Luffy finding his own food is that the idiot will eat anything . If he can chew it then Luffy will consider most things edible by this standard. Such disregard for what he puts in his body had more than once gotten him in trouble. Chopper, after the first hundred incidents involving Luffy becoming sick after something he ate—has garnered enough experience to fix whatever food ailment popped up. The one not used to Luffy eating random crap is his alpha. Law had spent six weeks with Luffy on Amazon Lily, learning what he could about the omega—his habits, likes, dislikes, and so on. During that time, he never witnessed Luffy eat anything other than good food—courtesy of that Snake Bitch. So he's unaware that he has to watch his omega like a parent watching a toddler who'll put a toy car in their mouth.
Law is reading a tattered journal Robin had procured in one of the many stops the Straw Hats made before reaching Sabaody. It once belonged to a female omega who had a keen interest in science. She studied her and her mate’s bond, going into detail how once he went into a coma after an accident and she pulled him through using their connection. Her findings fascinated Law as there was so little known about alpha and omega bonds. He kept diligently reading, having taken over the library’s couch—when a familiar scent wafted into the room. Law didn't look up, but he shifted to allow Luffy to sit beside him. They nestled against each other—Law with his book and Luffy with a box of… something. “What are you eating?” Law asked, becoming interested in the snacks Luffy kept popping into his mouth. An odor began to emanate from the box Luffy held and when Law had glanced over—he wondered about the fuzzy, brownish things the omega was eating. “My super, secret, special candy!” Luffy responded—mouth full. Law didn't really question the candy, deciding to focus back on his reading. A mere five minutes later Luffy had inhaled the entire contents of the box. Nothing strange from that until Luffy let out a choked breath. “Luffy-ya!” Law exclaimed, dropping the journal. He grabbed the omega and stared wide-eyed as the younger man began to turn blue, going unconscious after another choked gasp.
“ Room! ”
“ Scan! ”
Poison. Whatever the fuck Luffy consumed had poisoned him. Law picked up the omega and ran out of the library.
“Wow, easy there—you almost ran me over,” Zoro says after nearly colliding with Law. The younger alpha stops any further quips when he takes in the sight of a distressed Law, peering down at the omega in his arms. A deep, dare Law say it, annoyed sigh escaped the green-haired man. “Take him to Chopper—he’s in the infirmary. He'll know how to help,” Zoro says, scooting around Law and continuing on his way as if his Captain weren't on the brink of death. Law can't even begin to contemplate why Luffy's First Mate acted so nonchalantly. He ignores the inappropriate response from Zoro and runs to the infirmary.
“Raccoon-ya!” Law shouts in urgency. Chopper jumpers in his chair—his pencil causing a jagged line to go through his medical notes. “Luffy-ya collapsed after eating this strange, brownish foodstuff. I was told by Roronoa-ya that you can help.” The alpha places the unconscious omega on the exam bed and is looking at the furry Doctor expectantly.
“I know what's wrong with him,” Chopper replies—an exasperated sigh escaping him. The reindeer reaches over the desk toward the cabinet up top. He fiddles for a second before pulling out a vial containing a silver liquid. He hopped down from his chair—ever so casually—as he made his way to the discolored omega. Chopper transforms into his human self, opens the vial, and plops it into Luffy's mouth. “Give him a few minutes,” Chopper says after the vial is emptied. He goes back to his desk, frowning when he remembers that he messed up his notes.
“First Roronoa-ya, and now you,” Law says—accusation coating his words. “Your Captain is blue and lying unconscious—how is it that I am the only one who sees this as an emergency?”
Chopper gave Law a tired look. “Forgive me Alpha Leader for not sharing your same concern, but this is probably the twentieth time that Luffy's been brought to me in the same condition. No matter how many times I scold him—he never listens.”
Law raised an eyebrow. “Explain.”
“When we were on Fishman Island, Luffy discovered this fungal growth that is similar to algae that grows on rocks. He'd been hungry and apparently, he saw some animals eating the stuff so he assumed it was fine for him to eat it. The fungus smells weird, but according to Luffy, it tastes like candy. He hadn't known it was poisonous and when I found him all blue—I became frantic. I didn't know what antidote he needed or how long I had to find it, then I saw the animals who ate fungus start breaking open these orange clams. They ate the insides and looked healthy, so I did the same thing. Luffy got better right away, but then he got into his head he could eat the fungus so as long as he got the antidote right after. I tried explaining that it's dangerous to do that because what if we can't find the clams or what if I run out? He didn't listen, so anytime he comes across the fungus he will harvest as much as he can carry and randomly eat it when no one is looking.”
Law is dumbfounded. “He does this to himself on purpose!”
“Mhmm,” Chopper replies with a frown. “He's always been like this. It takes all of my medical expertise to keep my Captain healthy. I can handle battle wounds, but it's when he's doing asinine stuff like eating poisonous fungus that he tests my patience.”
By the time Chopper finished speaking, the omega began to stir. Luffy's skin tone is back to normal and the young man sat up like he hadn't just poisoned himself. “That was a great nap!” Luffy exclaims with a wide grin. Luffy sees the repercussions of the fungus as nothing major. It hurts in the beginning when the poison begins to course through his body, but he always falls asleep right after and he'll feel refreshed once the antidote takes effect. He looks over at the young beta. “Thanks, Chopper!” The omega moves to hop off the exam table, wanting to go about business as usual. He's completely unaware of the mood radiating from the alpha next to him.
“No.”
Luffy's body freezes.
“Raccoon-ya, I ask that you give me and my omega a moment to talk.”
“Yes, Alpha!” Chopper becomes flustered as he hurries to comply with Law's wishes. Once the reindeer is gone, leaving the men alone, Law stands in front of Luffy. The alpha's stance reminds Luffy of when Buggy would scold him. He's never experienced Law's actual anger and he instinctively wants to cower. The omega lets out a small whimper if only to appease the taller man and have Law go easier on him. “Stop that, ” Law says, his influence heavy. Luffy clams up instantly. “Tony-ya told me about your strange inclination toward eating things that will kill you. I already knew you never turned away from danger. Omegas never do. You will always be the first one entering a battle— that I can understand. Purposefully ingesting poison? It's incomprehensible—it's the stupidest, most fucking dangerous thing I've ever heard!”
“I don't like poison,” Luffy defended. He grimaces as he remembers Warden Magellan—Caesar also popped into mind too. “I'm immune to some of them though! Ask Chopper and he'll tell you I am.”
Law sneers at the omega's words. “You're not immune to the fungus.”
“Eventually, yeah—if I keep eating it!” Luffy retorts, frowning. Law starts to grind his teeth in frustration as he stares down at his future mate. This omega, so imbecilic—so Luffy —is who he gave his heart to, and that is the fact right there. The alpha had felt how weak Luffy's heart became when the poison attacked. It made him feel breathless, expecting to feel it stop beating in his chest. All because his omega wanted to eat a fungus that so happened to taste like candy. He knew, after Marineford, that he had to face Luffy being the dance partner of death and that he'd have his troubles keeping the omega alive. Not from something like this though— this was inexcusable .
The alpha stalked toward the omega still frozen in the act of leaving the exam table. As powerful as the omega is—he will never be able to fight against his alpha's influence. Not that the omega would want to. As much as an alpha is weak to their omega's influence, so too is an omega to their alpha’s. It's an innate instinct for mates to want to be obedient to each other. So Law knows he has one surefire way to keep Luffy from eating anything so dangerous again.
Luffy is crowded by Law, and then the alpha is placing a firm, tattooed hand around his neck. He's then pushed backward onto the exam table. The omega's breath hitches as the grip around his neck tightens—not enough to choke, but enough to show how dominating his alpha is in this situation. “You will never eat that fucking fungus again, nor will you ever knowingly ingest anything harmful. You're going to start thinking about what goes into your body because as much as it's yours—it's also going to be mine once we mate. Is this understood, omega?”
“Yes!” Luffy muttered, beginning to squirm under Law’s hold. His face was turning a pretty shade of red from both the position he was in and from the direct command by his alpha. Luffy can see that the alpha is pissed, but also frightened—frightened for him. Law doesn't want Luffy hurt unnecessarily, and if that means placing rules on food then so be it. The omega can't complain because he soaks in the worry from his alpha. He's eating it up, for it makes his heart swell. Luffy will obey—not just because of the influence Law used—he’ll do it if only to repay the care Law is showing him. The omega has such a good alpha.
They leave the infirmary after.
Chopper is standing a good distance from the door, having decided to wait nearby for the couple to finish their talk so he can go back and finish his notes. He sees them exit—Luffy hanging off of Law with a blissful smile and Law appears content. The alpha leans down to whisper something in Luffy's ear, causing the omega to nod before he takes his leave. Chopper is kinda nervous as Law beckons him over. “Alpha's protect their pack mates, but above them will always be their omega,” Law says when Chopper stands next to him. “Luffy and I are both Captains. Each with his ambitions and dreams to follow, so as much as I'd like to be nearby to help keep him safe—it's impossible as we are. This is why I'm glad he has someone like you. My omega needs a good doctor because you've seen what he'll eat or do. Raccoon-ya, I entrust my mate's health to you. From one great doctor to another.”
Chopper immediately becomes bashful, hurling insults at Law in an attempt to mask his pleasure. Such a reaction is unusual as no beta would dare say such things to their Alpha Leader, but Law lets it slide. None of Luffy's packmates are normal—not that Law's are any better. The alpha smiles and pats the fuzzy reindeer on his head.
The younger Doctor had felt inadequate when it came to impressing his Omega Leader's mate. He'd been reprimanded by Zoro when he'd gone off on Law for calling him a raccoon —he’s a freaking reindeer damn it, and he always got tongue-tied when talking to the older Doctor. The way Chopper had seen it, he could be what brought shame to Luffy. Such a thought scared him to death. Now? He knows he'd been worrying too much for nothing. The pat on the head from Law, and his trust are enough to inform the young beta that he earned a point for his crew. Oh, how Chopper immediately ran to inform the others—his notes completely forgotten.
Sixth up, Robin:
Robin likes to watch people. She doesn't mind keeping quiet in the background as she watches her crew mingle with one another. It allows her to study them—to see which activities they enjoy most, how their moods are fairing, and which foods they gravitate to when Sanji is passing out snacks. She can learn a lot from people by simply watching them. That's how she knows Law is a curious person. It makes sense that the alpha would have an inquisitive mind—she felt a kinship with him in that regard. The female beta also figured this would be how she earns a point for her packmates.
Law has proven how enraptured he'll become when something piques his interest. He talked for hours with Chopper concerning the beta’s Rumble Ball , Franky has been a point of awe to the alpha because of the cyborg aspect, and Law still considered Brook a medical marvel. Robin finds it cute how Law will take in information like he needs it to breathe. More than once she's even seen him mess with Luffy’s rubber skin, asking questions her Captain could never hope to answer.
“Do you know about the Will Of D?” Robin asked when she and Law were alone in the library. Well, they weren't completely alone as Luffy was quietly napping with his head in Law’s lap—the couple having procured the couch. Law is carding his fingers through Luffy's hair—the book in his hand forgotten. “I've heard some rumors,” Law responds. There is an air of caution surrounding Law, and Robin tries not to flinch as the alpha stares her down with sharp interest. She tilts her head in submission and keeps her gentle smile in order to appease the alpha. “The same goes for me. No one seems to know the definite meaning behind the initial, but what all are certain about is that whoever carries it brings about world-shaking events.”
Law huffs out a short laugh. “My omega is living proof of that.”
“Precisely why I believe it would benefit us both to share information.”
“Information like?” There is an edge to the alpha's words and Robin can't pinpoint why the subject is a sour one. Unless the alpha is being guardful because of Luffy. Law could have learned something that could put the omega in danger. He wouldn't trust just anyone, and Robin can't begin to express how much she wants him to trust her.
“I can read the poneglyphs and have discovered quite a few already,” Robin said. “The more we travel, and the more I read—the more my instincts tell me my Captain is intertwined deeply with it all. Not only because he carries the initial, nor because he's an omega. I believe it's simply due to him being who he is—the decisions he makes are utterly his own, yet they shape so much and touch everyone around him. Luffy doesn't see this, or if he does then he decidedly doesn't care. I do since his connection is fraught with danger. Luffy helped me to save my life, and since then I've become utterly submissive to him. Not out of debt, but pure loyalty. I belong to him because I trust him and he trusts me, so there is no danger I will not face to ensure he reaches his dreams as much as he will help me reach mine. This is why if you come across any poneglyphs—copy them, helpful books—take them if you can and copy them if you can't, or knowledgeable people—note down what they say. I will share with you whatever I find since you're Luff's alpha. As much as I'm protective of him; I know I will never compare to you.”
There was a gradual shift in Law's mood when Robin began to talk. She's not sure if she spoke too much or not enough. It's not every day that a woman feels like this—the need to do everything right to impress another. The last time was when Dragon approached her during her stint with the Revolutionary Army. It was a singular encounter—Dragon using it to give Robin a bottle with a note in it that she would then pass to Luffy after their two-year separation. Starting on a good foot with the mother of her Omega Leader had been as weighted as getting into Law's good graces.
“Before Sabaody, I had researched pirates that matched my level. Every Captain, ship, and crew—I delved in deep,” Law spoke up after a pregnant pause. “I know about you Nico-ya, and I dare say that there is no one better to help me unravel the mystery my and my mate's name holds—along with the mysteries of the world.”
Robin became perplexed. “I was unaware the name Trafalgar held a deeper meaning,” Robin admitted. Nothing peculiar came from the surname when she first researched the alpha because like Law—she had kept tabs on the other rising pirates—always one to be well-informed on the competition. She had researched Law, finding his exploits, but nothing major besides that connected to his name.
“Trafalgar Law doesn't, but Trafalgar D. Water Law does.”
Robin's eyes widened a fraction from the revelation that Law is also a member of the D Clan, but also because Law trusted her enough to reveal it. Then there is the name Water —a name Robin has seen come up once before and she understands it's as big of a deal as the initial D.
“T-thank you, Alpha Leader,” Robin stuttered out—overwhelmed by her revelations. Law has done well to hide his full name, and she doubts more than a handful know it. She will take it to her grave if need be, for she is loyal to Luffy and by extension—Law.
Law gave a half grin. “It's going to be a pleasure hunting with you, Nico-ya.”
Robin gave a responding smile—content in the knowledge her crew had garnered another point.
Seventh up, Brook:
Vibes, melodies, and musical poetry—Brook supplies them all for his crew. Luffy is ever his biggest request giver, for the Omega Captain loved music. He danced to jovial tunes or relaxed during softer symphonies. Brook always obliged the omega as it made him happy. How fortuitous it was that Luffy's mate also shared a love for the art.
Brook—like Sanji with how the cook caters to a person's pallet—caters his music to the rhythm of his audience. His keen eyes— if he had eyes that is~yohoho —pick up on what melodies resonate with whoever is listening. Zoro for example leans into an epic style of instrumental music. Something Brook has taken to referring to as war background music—go figure, huh? Anyway, Brook will transition a song in that direction if only to receive a sharp grin from the Alpha Second.
His adeptness is why Brook figured he could woo Law with his far-out rifts, but alas—the alpha is hard to pinpoint which genre of music is his favorite.
Law seemed cordial to all types. Heavy metal, classical funk, punk, alternative, hip-hop, shanties—you name it! The alpha seemed willing to listen, so Brook has been having trouble sticking to one thing . Then he got it into his head to compose a song that is a mix of everything . Truth be told, Brook thought he'd have the easiest time winning a point for his packmates. As it is—he’s the last one to earn a point.
The reborn beta thumped his head against the lounge table. No one else is there to bother him, and he faintly wished they were—if only to offer a reprieve. He's surrounded by hundreds of crumpled-up paper—all of them failed compositions. He can't work out how to combine every genre. There needs to be seamless transitions, yet his melody sounds like some jagged love child. “If I play any of this junk then I'm sure to lose favor with the alpha. Everybody will have a bone to pick with me if that happens, and that's not just because I'm a skeleton!” Brook said to himself, letting his head fall against the table as a despondent yohoho floated out. He kept in that position, willing his brain (he doesn't even have one lol) to work when a splashing sound can be heard behind him from the fish tank. Not even a minute later—the door to the lounge flings open, startling the skeleton. Inbounding is Luffy, dragging a helpless Law behind him. “They're all changing color!” Luffy exclaims, having climbed onto the booth seat and pressing his face against the cool glass of the tank. Law gave a hum in acknowledgment, but his attention was on the mess of papers on the floor. “Not very environmentally conscious, huh?” The alpha said in a joking tone.
“Pardon my mess!” Brook said, stumbling over himself to gather up all the paper and dispose of them in record timing. He turns around sheepishly—his cheeks adorning an embarrassed blush despite the lack of circulating blood. The skeleton is then stopped dead (ha, that's a pun right?) in his tracks when he sees that he's missed one ball of paper and that Law is holding it.
The alpha had unraveled the paper and smoothed it out to read its contents. He'd been curious as to what the musician was composing and was surprised as he read the title of the composition— The Gentle Wooing of an Alpha Leader's Soul .
“Are you seeking to seduce me, Skeleton-ya?” Law asked—amused. He held the paper up pointedly. “I'm sure whatever song you composed is sure to make me yours.”
Luffy lost interest in the bioluminescent fish they'd caught and placed in the tank. He turned around to grab the paper in Law's hand with a yoink and roamed his eyes over the different notes written. “I was wondering what you were talking about,” the omega said with a small chuckle. At first, he'd been taken aback when Law mentioned Brook trying to seduce him—he knew Brook knew better than to do something like that. The skeleton is loyal and also not stupid—he already used his come back to life card and didn't have another.
“These notes are janky,” Luffy commented—the omega has a basic understanding of how to read music sheets, being taught by Brook on a day he'd been very bored.
Brook is hasty in how he snatches away the paper, feeling his embarrassment skyrocket. “Yes, well, musical geniuses are not always perfect and get stuck from time to time.”
Law took a seat next to Luffy—the omega slid down to rest beside him. The two looked at the fumbling beta before them. “Need assistance?” Law offered. Brook clutches the paper to his chest and begins to rapidly shake his head. “No!” He shouts—then he’s backpedaling. “I mean, thank you for the kind offer, Mr. Trafalgar, but my writer's block will clear up soon. I've just undertaken a challenge that seemed far easier in my head.”
The alpha stared at Brook, causing the skeleton to fidget. “My favorite genre of music is sea shanties,” Law said. His words strike Brook across the face. All this time trying to figure out what the alpha liked, and then deciding to mash together a Frankenstein song when he couldn't. It had been for not! Oh, Brook could just die— again .
“Do you, perchance, have a particular song you love?” Brook asked. Although he felt cheated, Brook grabbed ahold of the lifeline that Law tossed toward him. Maybe now he can have the alpha fall in love with his musical expertise and win that point for his crew.
“Hoist The Colors,” Law replied in an instant. The song is not one Brook is familiar with and he turns his eyes to Luffy, hoping the omega knows something about it. There is no recognition from the omega, so he must be just as clueless as Brook. “My apologies, Alpha Leader—I do not know that song.”
“Not many would. It's a song older than time, and it's being passed around less and less. So few can remember how it goes,” Law says. “An Omega Pirate Captain by the name of Jack Sparrow taught it to me. He had come into port with his alpha mate—William I think his name was—and a small number that counted as his crew. My father was contracted by Jack to check on his crewmates' health. While my father did that, Jack entertained me because I think he thought I was cute. Anyway, Jack explained it's a song that unites pirates as one—a true feat considering pirates don't usually work together. To me the song is somber, but also a defiant statement that says a pirate will never regret the life they chose and will always raise their Jolly Roger.”
Brook listened in rapt attention as the alpha spoke. He's a bit surprised to learn a little about Law’s history—realizing that the alpha's father was a doctor and that's probably how/why Law became one. Law isn't one to talk about himself much, so it's a real treat to be listening to him.
“How does the song go?” Brook asked—utterly curious now.
Law wrapped an arm around his omega, getting comfortable as he leaned his head against the fish tank. A look of nostalgia overtook his face as he began to sing.
“The seas be ours. Beyond the power. Where we will, we'll roam. Yo, ho, all hands. Hoist the colors high. Heave ho, thieves and beggars. Never shall we die. Yo, ho, haul together. Hoist the colors high. Heave ho, thieves and beggars. Never shall we die.”
Brook’s jaw hung open and Luffy looked entirely entranced by his mate. Law can sing—he can sing well . It's an unexpected discovery—a very welcoming one.
Besides Law singing, the song he sang was truly somber and legendary. It sparked defiance within Brook—a challenge against those who oppose the pirate life and a challenge against death that isn't haunting enough to stop a pirate from being who they are. He understood why the song must have been sung by pirates all around, and he felt a duty to learn it and pass it on so it never dies.
The song begins to bubble up and out of Brook's mouth. He matches the tune in how Law sang it and the alpha lifts his head with a grin. The two end up singing together with Luffy as their audience.
Brook began to incorporate Hoist The Colors during the crew’s nightly serenades. Typically, he will perform Binks’ Brew—to satisfy Luffy as that is the omega’s favorite song, and then he’d end on some melody that will wind down the evening. This time around he leads the crew to sing the newly learned shanty, and their voices carry across the waves as their Jolly Roger flutters in the wind. The song leaves them feeling united in its calm darkness, and every time they sing it—the beta can see the genuine pleasure reflected in Law’s eyes. Brook finale did it. He earned his crew their final point.
~~~~~
“I like your crew,” Law says.
He and Luffy are in their nest, cuddling closely together as they prepare to fall asleep. Law is wearing his old hoodie—well, it’s Luffy’s now—because the omega wanted him to scent it. The hoodie feels well worn in—making it quite comfortable, and Luffy had buried his face in it but looked up when Law spoke.
“Ha! Why wouldn’t you?” The omega said, sounding as if Law had no other choice than to like them. Law hugged the omega tighter to him. “I would have liked them regardless, but I appreciate the effort they went through to impress me,” Law said as he nuzzled his nose against the top of Luffy’s head.
“You knew?” There is a pout in those words, and Law wondered if Luffy had meant for his crew to be more organic in showing off for him. He might not have realized what they were doing if it hadn’t been for Robin and Brook. It had made sense to him when Sanji provided him lavish meals and when Zoro wanted to duel—that is just typical alpha and omega stuff. Usopp and Franky almost gave themselves away if not for that Hydra Sea King because Law doubted they would have been reckless enough to lure one in. He hadn’t suspected Nami or Chopp either, but when it came down to the archeologist and skeleton—they were stinted. He supposes had it been anyone else then Robin would have been smoother and Brook would have been more confident. It made Law a bit full of himself that he could have such an effect on the betas.
“I wasn’t sure before, but now I am,” Law teased instead of going into the specifics on how he found out. Luffy grumbled, tossing in a you bastard in there which made Law laugh. “Hey, there’s nothing wrong in trying to impress me. I told my crew to do the same for you on Amazon Lily. I’m sure it's a common thing with Alpha and Omega Leaders. We want to prove we’re the best to our mates and show why we earned the title of Leader.”
“You are the best and you’ll be even better once you give me the gift.”
Now it was Law’s turn to grumble. It's not exactly easy to find a gift while traveling in the middle of the ocean. Law is hoping that the island they’re heading to will have something. It’s such a fucking pain to have to juggle courting his omega and focusing on their goals ahead—a pain he accepts mind you. The alpha is just frustrated with himself because he still thinks about the heart incident. It seemed almost mocking how his heart beat within Luffy’s chest—every beat reminding him that if he had only given the omega his heart first then they would have been mated already. He’s the only alpha in the whole fucking world with the ability to remove his heart and it hadn’t occurred to him to use it as a gift instead of keeping it as some metaphorical bullshit. The next island better gives him some ideas or Law will be pissed.
“Don’t worry, Sunshine, you will carry my mark soon enough.”
Luffy rubbed his head against Law’s chest. “So will you!”