They Don't Know About Us
Author's Note: So this chapter was actually supposed to be Ace's backstory and what happened before Marineford… but… I have no self control. I ended up with 20k words of just Shanks' stuff despite only summarizing his time with the Roger Pirates… yeah… oops. Anyway, I hope you enjoy! This will be more of Shanks, Ace, and Luffy and Shanks' movements following Ace and Luffy starting their own crews. Scenes have been changed from canon just because I mostly felt like it. Just a reminder: THATCH SURVIVED! He's alive!
Additional Notes: Would you want a Mihawk chapter? That would take place before Marineford? Or nah? Also, Shanks in this knows what the Yami Yami no Mi is.
Chapter Warnings: Normal for the fic so far.
Chapter Three: Carry On My Wayward Son (by Kansas)
Chapter Summary: After the birth of Luffy, Shanks returns back to the Grand Line, occasionally visiting Dawn Island to see his mother. His boys befriend and form a brotherhood with a boy named Sabo. When his sons go to sea for their own journeys, Shanks keeps tabs on his sons. Realizing that Ace is about to fall into Teach's trap, Shanks goes to Whitebeard. Telling him about the Yami Yami no Mi and proposing an alliance. Later, he notices the change with Ace's vivre card before getting news.
His two boys were an absolute handful. So much so that Shanks was starting to lose track how just how much he might be losing his hair from the mixture of annoyance and gut-punching terror. He had created two miniature versions of himself times hundred.
His boys were his world, and nothing could change that. The years started to pass as Shanks watched his children grow. Mihawk took every chance that he could to come and visit his children. Though, some visits would be far and few between. When he was there, he stayed anywhere from a few weeks to a month. Maybe the occasional day if they happened to cross paths.
Shanks also made it a point to go to Dawn Island as much as possible for his pups to be able to know Rouge. They also got to meet Garp and Dragon a couple of times. Dragon not so much. Just long enough to introduce the boys to their great-uncle and a small conversation before the Revolutionary leader had to leave again. It wasn't long before Garp was using his "Fist of Love" to try and talk his boys into becoming Marines instead of pirates. Which fell to deaf ears. Once either of his boys set their minds on something, it was stuck and there was no changing it.
He spent a lot of his time telling his boys about his past adventures with the Roger Pirates. His own time before their birth with his own crew. Rouge also told them her stories of being with the Whitebeard Pirates. The looks on their faces as their eyes lit up made Shanks beyond happy. A bubbling feeling going through him that he was able to tell them about Roger and how he actually was. Compared to what the world wanted people to believe. Mihawk, when he was present, even recalled his own memories growing up and being a pirate without a crew.
That had been the first time that Luffy proclaimed he was going to be the King of the Pirates.
Mihawk's visits did get more frequent when they were in the Grand Line. The Alpha starting to teach both of the boys' swordsmanship since practically the minute they could walk. Much to Shanks' dismay of sharp objects being near his trouble prone sons. He knew it was better if they knew how to handle them properly, but it didn't suffice the fear any less. Ace picked up on it the quickest, already showing a type of prodigy to the sword style. A large smile on his face whenever he picked up a blade. The excitement covering his small face. Luffy took some time before he got the hang of it. Preferring to use hand to hand combat compared to using a sword. If it came down to it, Shanks knew that Luffy could use a sword proficiently. Luffy looked just as excited as Ace did whenever Mihawk pulled out the swords. Bouncing up and down as the Alpha man started working with them.
Then the Gomu Gomu no Mi incident happened. Lucky Roux had found the Devil Fruit and while he was deciding what to do with it, Luffy had gotten angry at Shanks. Shanks wasn't even sure what he was angry about, other than the fact it led to his son consuming the Devil Fruit. Even right after he had told both Ace and Luffy what the fruit was and what were the effects of eating a Devil Fruit. Luffy had just gone and took a huge chunk out of it thinking it was something completely different in his hunger. His youngest always had been an angry eater. If he was angry and not fighting, he was taking it out on food. Shanks wasn't even sure why hanging Luffy upside down and shaking him would get him to spit it out, but he had done exactly that while Ace was panicking over the situation. Mihawk was amused to say the least when Shanks told him of what happened. Stating that something like that could only happen around Shanks.
You accidentally scare someone into eating a Devil Fruit once and it follows you for life.
X
For a year, Shanks and his crew had stayed in Foosha. From their time spent there, his boys met a young kid from Grey Terminal named Sabo. Quickly sparking up a friendship turned brotherhood with the kid. Shanks liked the kid. He had spunk. His mother had also been taking care of the boy, letting him stay with her at her home.
A few weeks after they arrived at Dawn Island, both of his boys had thrown themselves into training more. Even Sabo had joined in, who had already been doing some training with Rouge. Ace and Luffy practically begging Shanks to allow them to get into more training. At first, he had been against the tougher training, wanting his sons to have a semi-normal childhood until they were at least in their teens. He didn't want their lives completely focused in on being pirates. He wanted them to at least act like they were children. Neither were publicly members of the Red-Hair Pirates, though they acted as his apprentices. They were his apprentices. At least to someone who didn't know who either of the boys were to him. The more he thought about it, the better it would be for them when they decided to leave the Red Force and take on their own crews and ships. Luffy spent his time training his Devil Fruit abilities, both Shanks and Mihawk acting as targets for him to hit. Both saying the second he could hit one of them, would be the day that he could attempt to surpass them. He never was able to land a hit on them. Shanks actually felt bad for the moment of amusement he got from seeing Luffy attempt to punch something, only for his arm to bend backwards and attack himself. Right in the nose. Ace had found it hilarious, falling to the ground in a fit of laughter as Luffy yelled at him to be quiet.
The rest of the Red-Hair Pirates had stepped in to also assist with helping the boys. Whenever Garp was on the island, the forest practically got destroyed when he got involved. Rouge also stepped up to help. Shanks and Rouge took over training the boys to use haki. Mihawk continuing with their swordsmanship, even deciding to help Sabo with his own. Benn, Yasopp, and Lucky Roux helping with gun safety and how to properly use them.
Shanks noticed quickly that Ace had Mihawk's advanced eyesight and tracking. It was hard to tell if Luffy had gained them, but he was sure if Luffy had gotten into an actual fight, he would see it. Both Ace and Luffy seemed to have Mihawk's fast reflexes. They both displayed signs of Shanks' natural haki usage. Which made it a whole lot easier to teach them how to use it.
Luffy… he seemed to take a lot after Roger. Whenever Shanks looked at his youngest, he saw Roger in every moment. From his personality to his proclamations of being the Pirate King.
Ace reminded him a lot of Rouge. From the way he took care of his brother and his protectiveness of both Shanks and Luffy. He did have the moments where he would see himself or Mihawk in the boy.
His heart had broken when he received word that Sabo had been killed by a Celestial Dragon trying to escape from Dawn Island. His boys even more heartbroken as he watched Ace vow that he would never die and leave Luffy behind, and Luffy's tears as his youngest broke down. They had witnessed the entire thing. Neither one of them had left their room after that. Staying within the walls of the room, only eating because Shanks was bringing them food.
Shanks' heart hurt thinking of ways to help his sons. Both of them were hurting and there was nothing he could do. Nothing he could say that would help the pain they were feeling. Sabo was just a child. The same age as Ace. A boy that they had entered into a brotherhood with. Forged a bond with.
Ace had thrown himself into harder training at that point. Begging for more advanced forms of training. In turn, Luffy did too. Claiming that he couldn't become King without the ability to protect his family. Claiming he would be stronger than Shanks, Mihawk, and his entire crew. Stronger than Roger, Garp, Dragon, and Rouge. It had brought a smile to Shanks' face. With that being said, Shanks pulled his hat off of his head and placed it on Luffy's. Making a promise with Luffy that it would be returned to him once he became a great pirate. Telling him to take good care of it since it had belonged to Roger.
Shanks never had the intention of actually accepting the hat back.
After a few more months on the island, the Red-Hair Pirates departed. Saying goodbye to the villagers and Rouge as they left. Rouge giving one final token to Ace as they were leaving. Heading back for the Grand Line until Ace was old enough to venture on his own. Shanks had decided that Dawn Island would be a good starting place for both of his sons when they started their journey. They would be able to get the full experience and maybe even gain their own nakama from the Blue seas before entering the Grand Line on their own.
It would be their journey. Not his.
X
Shanks had just turned thirty-one when he was announced to the World as the fourth yonko of the seas. A party had been thrown in his honor, the decision actually made by Ace and Luffy. Mihawk had also joined in on the festivities, seeking out Shanks almost immediately after the announcement. Shanks had officially became the youngest yonko in the world, it was absolutely something he was going to throw a party for.
Everything that Shanks had ever wanted was coming true. He couldn't be happier. Even Mihawk was now recognized as the World's Strongest Swordsman. Another accomplishment to add to the ever growing list that belonged to Shanks' family.
He stood with his new wanted poster in hand, a bounty well into the billions. A fond smile on his face as he thought, Wouldn't make it as a pirate, huh, Buggy? Guess I proved you wrong again. I do wonder what you're doing. What you've become.
He was pulled out of his thoughts by, "C'mon, dad! We have a party to throw!" Luffy exclaimed, bouncing up and down on his feet with his arms thrown over Ace's shoulders. Who had been trying not to look like he was just as excited.
Shanks smiled as he turned back to them. "You guys can't drink too much." He stated, making his way over to where his crew was station. His crew had practically doubled in size at this point. His nakama sprawled out over the large area on the island they were currently at.
"Yeah, whatever you say, mom." Ace retorted, a playful smirk on his face. "Says the man who will get drunk, hungover, and drink again despite that."
Shanks rolled his eyes at the nickname. "Now listen here, I am your father after all. I can say that. So, meh." Shanks stated, sticking his tongue out. He didn't actually have a comeback because Ace was right. Couldn't refute the truth. If Ace or Luffy wanted to be little shits, they would call him mom. Not really in a demeaning way but definitely in a teasing manner at any chance they could get. Nine out of ten times, they called him dad and Mihawk was papa.
Though, Ace had taken to calling Mihawk just that, Mihawk. Shanks couldn't place the issue with Ace and the boy wouldn't tell him either. It was something he had been noticing over the years. Ace no longer jumped in joy when he saw Mihawk approaching, rather hanging back and letting Luffy go first before he would approach. It struck him as odd, Ace had always been attached to Mihawk when he showed up and vice versa.
Luffy jumped away from Ace, rushing over and grabbing Shanks' arm to pull him the rest of the way. "Who cares about the drinking! Let's just party! I want meat!"
Shanks laughed. Thinking back to before when he wasn't too much into the partying, but his father was. He had turned into his father. Not that he was complaining. He would rather live life to the fullest.
X
Just before Ace's seventeenth birthday, Shanks directed his ship back for Dawn Island. Giving money to Ace for the start of his journey. More than enough to last the boy a while. Setting him up for at least the next year if he was smart enough with it. The crew had stayed for a week, the final day being Ace's birthday. A party was thrown for the Omega child before he departed with a wave. Laughing as he promised to see Luffy and Shanks on the Grand Line one day. On top of his head was Rouge's old hat and a piece of her vivre card. The only difference, it was without the hibiscus flower that Rouge was known for. A sword on his back that was gifted to him by Mihawk. It was a specially crafted sword, personalized for Ace that had been gifted to him when he turned fifteen.
The final conversation they had before their goodbyes was what Ace would do with his name. Hiding his true name from the world. Ace ultimately decided on using Portgas. Deciding it was the best option to hide his relation to Gol D. Roger. He had plenty of options. Even Mihawk being thrown out at one point. To which Ace just down right refused. Stating he would rather use a name Shanks had used before.
Shanks cried as he watched his oldest son disappear over the horizon. He felt better knowing that Ace had a piece of his vivre card. If Ace ever needed him, he could always find him. They had created one for Ace right before his departure with both Shanks and Luffy also having a piece of it with them. He held onto Luffy as his youngest continued his send off to his brother. Somehow, Shanks knew it wouldn't be long before they met again.
X
It hadn't taken long when Ace's first wanted poster came out, the name Portgas D. Ace underneath his picture. Mihawk bringing the poster to Shanks to see for himself since Shanks was in a location the newspaper birds didn't get to. Shanks noticed almost immediately the flames surrounding his son. He made a mental note to check in on that information since the wanted poster didn't say anything about it. It did have that he was the Captain of the Spade Pirates. It brought a strong sense of pride to him. His son was becoming known as the Terror of the Grand Line. Going after people who should be much stronger than his seventeen year old son. To the point that the Marines had reached out to ask Ace to take a Warlord position which he had promptly refused.
Like in his fashion, Shanks announced a party. Throwing a party for Ace despite him not being there. Luffy had been beyond ecstatic seeing Ace's new wanted poster. Proclaiming happily to whoever would listen that Ace was his older brother. Though everyone there knew who Ace was.
X
Not long after he saw the wanted poster, Ace had found him. In a cave on a snowy mountain. Playing along to the idea that Ace had been doing on the seas, he held out his sword, saying, "The Spade Pirates, huh? So, you're the rookie everyone is talking about. Came to say hello?" He lifted up his sword, just enough to make it look threatening. He could hear the people behind Ace, pleading for Ace to reconsider anything he could have in mind. Luffy was cackling behind him, trying his best to conceal his laughter.
Ace immediately had his hands up. "Okay, enough of that, mom! Man, I leave for a few months." He gasped, the playful tone in his voice.
Seconds later, the Spade pirates had immediately started to protest, moving around Ace as if to shield him from Shanks. "Captain! You can't be calling Omegas mom like that! Especially male ones! It's an insult!" A blue haired Alpha now standing in front of Ace muttered. It only took that action before the Red-Hair pirates were laughing and Shanks went into his own fit of laughter, leaving Ace's crew in confusion.
"It's quite alright. He's been doing that since pretty much the minute he could talk. Old habits die hard." Shanks stated, placing his sword back against his hip. Motioning his hand out for the Spade Pirates to sit. "It's nice to meet you all. Please, have a seat and let's talk." He paused, looking to his own crew. "This calls for a banquet!"
With that, they got a fire started and Shanks' cook started to cook along with some of Ace's nakama to get food ready. Luffy was instantly attached to his brother's side. Shanks took a moment to look at his son, frowning at how his son was dressed in cold weather. He was in his normal black shorts; his shirt was short sleeved with a tan cloak covering his shoulders. He did have on a pair of gloves, but Shanks couldn't help the feeling that came to him to get his son into warmer clothes. He was sure the Spade Pirates had caught on quickly when he immediately started fussing over Ace, watching as his Omega son's face flared up as he started to bat Shanks' hands away. Saying he was fine.
A moment later, Ace was on fire. Actual fire. Making Shanks' heart practically stop. His mind flashed back to Ace's wanted poster and how flames were within the picture. So, his oldest had eaten a devil fruit too. When Shanks questioned him, Ace explained how he got shipwrecked on Sixis with Deuce, the blue haired Alpha, and that they had both eaten the fruit but since Ace took the first bite. He got the abilities.
Shanks stopped fretting as much once Ace told him that. Instead he chose to watch Luffy's excitement over his brother's Logia powers. Once the food was complete, they sat down to eat with o-choko cups ready for drinks.
Ace sat across from him, Luffy leaning against his brother while eating his helping of meat. Ace drank from his cup as Shanks said, "So, what's your plan?"
Ace smiled as he pulled his cup away from his lips with a grin. "Making my mark in the world."
"I see. How are you going to do that?" Shanks questioned, a grin coming to his own face. He was sure what his son was about to say. Ace shared a common trait with Mihawk. The strive to defeat and be better than opponents stronger than themselves.
Ace's smirk only got bigger. "I'm going to go after the strongest man in the world." He replied.
"Whitebeard, huh." Shanks stated.
Well, this is going to be interesting. Looks like Whitebeard is about to acquire a new son.
Ace and the Spade Pirates had left after a few days, going back on their own journey. Shanks, Luffy, and the crew waved them off. Luffy yelling to Ace that he would be stronger than him the next time they saw each other. Ace just laughed him off as he waved back as the Piece of Spadille started to disappear over the horizon.
"Next time we hear about him, he will be a Whitebeard pirate." Shanks stated.
X
Shanks had been right. When Ace's newest wanted poster came out, it had been updated to say Ace was now a Whitebeard pirate. Not just any Whitebeard pirate, the Second Division Commander. Shanks cracked up at the irony that Ace ended up in the same position as Rouge. He wondered how his oldest was doing. He hadn't seen his son since their encounter in the cave. Ace was in good hands with Whitebeard and his crew. One of the most loyal crews around was Whitebeard's. They had an honor code and treated each member like family. The largest pack on all of the seas.
Luffy had proclaimed that he was going to have an even stronger crew even if it wasn't as massive. He couldn't help but be entertained by Luffy in those moments. Even away from each other, the two boys were competing against each other.
However, it didn't help the uneasy feeling that he had knowing Teach was still a Whitebeard Pirate within the same division that Ace was now the Commander of. He decided that he was going to keep tabs on them from that moment. He didn't trust Teach. He trusted the other Whitebeard Pirates, especially the Commanders. But Teach was not one of them.
He had warned Luffy that if he had ever came in contact with Teach, to not engage with the man and just turn and walk away. Luffy didn't question him, instead agreeing to him. He just hoped that Ace would be able to see the uneasiness with Teach. He had managed to slip in the small detail with Teach when he had seen Ace last, but he wondered if it would stick. Ace was big on showing loyalty and respect to those he cared about. Especially after the incident on the Red Force. Shanks had seen it enough as Ace was growing up. Luffy was the exact same way.
Mihawk had voiced his concerns as well about Ace being a Whitebeard Pirate. Mihawk had also told him that he would keep a close eye on Teach, to use his Warlord status to get information that Shanks probably wouldn't be able to get. It gave Shanks slight relief but not enough. The feeling wouldn't go away. He just hoped being with Whitebeard, Ace was safe. That's all he could ask for. Even though his son was eighteen now. He still couldn't help but worry.
X
Finally, it had reached the time that Luffy was turning seventeen. Ace had called on his den den mushi to tell Luffy good luck on his journey and they would see each other at some point on the Grand Line. Though he wouldn't be able to make it back to Dawn Island to physically see him off. That he had business to take care of. It had struck Shanks as odd. Ace's tone of voice. Something wasn't right about it.
For the moment, Shanks put it in the back of his mind as Luffy was set up in his little boat at the docks of Foosha. Like with Ace, they had arrived a week prior. Held a party before Luffy would be going on his way. With a sword on his hip from Mihawk. Customized to Luffy just like he had done for Ace. Shanks handed him a piece of his vivre card just like he had done for Ace. Stating if he needed him to come and find him. Like they had done for Ace, a vivre card was created for Luffy. Which Shanks had a piece and so did Rouge. She had also joined them at the docks, waving off Luffy along with them as he started his own journey. Also giving him a piece of her vivre card.
Shanks' heart almost stopped as the local Sea King came out of the ocean directly in front of Luffy. Luffy instead punched the Sea King in its jaw, telling it to get out of his way before he was promptly back on his journey. Smiling back at them and returning back to waving at them.
Shanks was sure he was going to die before he reached forty at this rate. Ace was strong and still managed to get into trouble. Luffy was also strong but somehow managed to cause absolute chaos wherever he went.
The seas were about to get much more interesting.
X
Interesting was an understatement. Mihawk's arrival on the island scaring most of Shanks' newest crew. With the exclamations from the newer people trying to warn him about Hawkeye. Shanks groaned as he leaned his head against his hands, the loud noise making his already pounding head hurt worse. Standing directly behind his crew mate was Mihawk with a rolled up piece of paper in hand. "I don't feel good, Mi. What's going on?" Taking in the serious expression on Mihawk's face. Though, usually the Alpha always wore that look except for when they were dueling each other. Which still happened just about any time they saw each other. Old habits die hard.
"Thought there was something you would like to see, Shay." Mihawk stated, unrolling the paper, and revealing Luffy's brand new wanted poster in hand. Shanks' eyes widen for a moment before he was sitting up with glee. His hangover long forgotten. A large grin on his face. His youngest had gotten himself a bounty of thirty million in the East Blue. The highest bounty from the East Blue to be exact. Taking down the likes of Buggy, Kuro, Don Kreig, and Arlong. All four before he had entered the Grand Line. He stopped when he noticed the name on the poster.
Monkey D. Luffy. He chuckled. Garp had something to do with that and he knew it.
He knew it wouldn't be long now before Luffy would be making his way into the Grand Line. He wondered what nakama Luffy had found. He was the only one with a bounty at the moment. No words about who the crew was on his poster.
The hangover he had from the night before was long gone as Shanks instantly announced they were having another party. The red-head getting up from the log he had been sitting on to walk over to Mihawk and practically jump on him in excitement. His legs wrapping around his waist as Mihawk's arms wrapped around him. The swordsman not once faltering underneath the added weight. "Didn't you just say you felt sick?" Mihawk questioned to which Shanks laughed at as he jumped down to let his feet hit the ground. His son just got his first bounty. How could he not have a party?!
"Boss?" One of Shanks' nakama pulled Shanks' attention away from Mihawk. The confusion on most of his newest crewmates' faces when he had to explain who Mihawk was and who Luffy was to them. Also telling them that the Second Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates was his son as well. The absolute stunned shock that came from his newest crew made Shanks throw his head back into a laugh as Mihawk snorted.
It went through his mind, thinking just how little he has seen Mihawk recently.
He smiled anyway, urging Mihawk to take another drink as he let out a hearty laugh as Mihawk said, "It's still daytime."
"Oh, don't sweat it!" Shanks said, feeling the flush come to his face as they started drinking more. Feeling the buzz run through him from the alcohol in his system now.
Mihawk gave him a fond look, placing his arm over Shanks' shoulder. The Omega melting into him almost immediately. Shanks breathed in his scent that was now next with the salty spray of the ocean. Like home. Mihawk buried his nose in Shanks' hair with a smile on his face as a party erupted around them.
"I ran into Luffy at the Baratie." Mihawk finally said, causing Shanks to pull back and look up at him.
"How was he? Was he okay?" Questions started to escape Shanks at almost lightning speed. Mihawk held his hand up with a smile.
"He's fine. He found some good nakama. He had to go after his navigator though." Mihawk stated.
Shanks' eyes narrowed. Mihawk was holding something back. He frowned as he pulled back slightly. "Why were you in the East Blue anyway?"
Mihawk shrugged, taking a drink from his tankard. "I was bored and cut down Don Kreig's ship." He said. "Had nothing better to do."
Shanks kept his eyes on Mihawk. That wasn't all. "What else?"
Mihawk smiled. "Luffy found a good swordsman. Roronoa Zoro. He challenged me to a duel. We fought. I won. That kid was something else. Didn't even up even in the face of defeat. Vowing to Luffy to never lose again." Mihawk stated, going on into further detail about the duel and Luffy's reaction.
Shanks snorted, letting out a small laugh. "You seriously need to get some hobbies."
Mihawk shrugged. "I have you to duel with. Our kids. I have plenty. Plus, it's fun to watch the terror on pirate's faces when they realize who I am."
The Omega rolled his eyes, instead choosing to cuddle back into Mihawk's side. "You are something else, Dracule."
X
It wasn't long after that when he received word that Teach had attacked the Fourth Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates, Thatch. The Alpha man barely managing to survive the attack from his fellow nakama. The dread filled Shanks when he discovered the Ace had gone after Teach. All of this happening right before Luffy had set out on his journey on his own. That had been what Ace had been talking about when he spoke to Luffy.
The fear filled Shanks. He had faced Teach before and it didn't end well for him. He hoped with everything that Ace wouldn't continue his pursuit. It seemed that his words to his son about Teach didn't stick after all. Ace still going after him.
It took the entirety of his crew to calm him down. He had pulled out Ace's vivre card, watching it and thanking the heavens that it was still completely intact. If the rumors were true and Teach had betrayed his crew for the Yami Yami no Mi devil fruit, Ace was in a lot more danger. Teach had over twenty years since he attacked Shanks. When Shanks didn't once let his guard down.
Ace was in danger no matter what.
So many thoughts ran through his head on how to handle the situation. Hunt down Ace and bring him home? Speak to Whitebeard and try to talk sense in the man? It was a Pirate code that whatever crew that person was with, listened to their Captain and not to interfere with business dealt by them. Everything in him screamed to try and find Ace, but first he would try going to Whitebeard. He was sure that Ace would be more willing to listen to the man Teach had wronged.
He took in a deep breath as he instructed his men to set a course for the Moby Dick. They had to find the crew and quickly. He decided to send Rockstar, one of his newer nakama, ahead to provide a letter to Whitebeard. No matter what, he was to deliver the letter. It was up to Whitebeard to read it.
"Remember, your life is worth more than pride." Shanks stated, looking Rockstar straight in the eye to get his point across. The pirate nodded at him before starting off on his small ship. The Red Force would be trailing behind him. Shanks already knew what Whitebeard was going to say but if he could avoid the conflict, he would. He would much rather be searching for Ace at that moment.
"You really can't expect the World Government to sit by and let this happen." Benn stated, his arms crossed over his chest as he eyed his Captain.
Shanks laughed. "Of course, they wouldn't. I just don't care. Soon enough, the Government is going to be scared of us."
The crew cheered as Shanks announced for them to pack up and set sail. Shanks still had the feeling deep in his gut as he watched Rockstar's little boat disappearing over the horizon. It had been so long since he had seen Whitebeard last. The last time, his mother was still with them and he had shown up pregnant with Ace. His mother had left the crew after that. He wondered what Rouge would think about this situation. He thought of calling her, haven't seen her in a few months to let her know the situation. He was sure if he told her what was going on with Ace, she would come straight for Whitebeard. She hated Teach more than Shanks did. Was the first person to warn Shanks about Teach.
He sighed as he started off towards the Red Force.
You better be okay, Ace. I will come find you rather Whitebeard wants to bring you home or not.
He had already made up his mind what he was going to do. He was just going to be courteous and give his mother's former Captain the benefit of the doubt. Whitebeard wasn't one of those people who would knowingly put his pack into danger. Not like this. This was something completely different from fights with Marines or other pirates. Emotions were involved with this.
"You have every intention of finding Ace. Don't you?" Benn questioned as he fell into step with the Omega. Shanks looked through the corner of his eye at the Alpha and made a noise in his throat. "I would question why you are going to see Whitebeard instead of going straight to Ace… but I think I already might know the answer."
Shanks gave a soft smile. "Ace is my pup, yes, but he's also a part of Whitebeard-san's pack now. Ace is an adult who can make his own choices." Shanks paused, sighing. "I still fear for him. Teach… this isn't going to be easy. It makes me wonder if Whitebeard-san truly knows anything about Teach at all. Ace is in far more danger than he realizes."
Benn placed his hand on Shanks' shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "We'll find him. No matter what."
"Yeah, lets get going. Don't want to waste any time."
X
X
Seeing the Moby Dick was bittersweet as Shanks started to release his haki before even getting on board. Hearing Marco instruct for their newest nakama to go inside before Shanks could knock them out. Dragging a large jug of sake behind him, he started onto the ship, keeping his head down as he heard one by one Whitebeard's crew started hitting the deck.
Like he had originally thought, Whitebeard had blown off Rockstar. Even getting angry that Shanks would resort to sending one of his men instead.
He could hear Marco telling his nakama that he had told them and that it was their own fault. Explaining that the men were fine, just passing out. He caught Jozu saying, "Ones with a weak will cannot stand the aura that surrounds that man's every step. The power of his haki, is impressive."
Once he stopped directly in front of the man his mother was so fond of, he looked up with a smile on his face, "You must excuse me. It's hard to stay calm when I'm on an enemy's ship." He stated, meeting Whitebeard's eye.
"Just looking at your face makes me ache. Thinking of the scar that bastard gave you." Whitebeard drawled, arms crossed as he stared down at the Omega. Shanks could smell the comforting scent radiating off of the man. He didn't make any indication that he was going to attack Shanks right then and there. Shanks could remember growing up and his old crew clashing with Whitebeard's. How Whitebeard would let him curl up on him and sleep after the long battle. The trait he loved about Whitebeard was how he was so caring and protective. He could see it now with how Whitebeard held himself.
"Could I interest you in this fine medicinal water that I brought? I didn't come here to fight. I came to talk." Shanks stated, motioning for the jug behind him. Sake that came from his home village in the West Blue. His favorite.
"You knock out a bunch of my men with your haki then offer me a drink? You have balls kid." Whitebeard chuckled, his laugh low and rumbling in his chest.
"He ain't kidding, red-hair! Look at this mess you made!" Marco exclaimed, gaining Shanks' attention away from Whitebeard. The Omega looked over his shoulder to see Marco, Jozu, Izou, and a bandaged-up Thatch.
Shanks let the shit eating grin come to his face as he looked at Marco. "Marco of the First Division. How about you come join my crew?" Shanks already knew what Marco would say. Marco was the second in command of the Whitebeard pirates and Whitebeard's right hand man. Having been with the man since he was a child. Marco was one of the most loyal people Shanks had ever met in his life. He did enjoy getting underneath his feathers when he could.
Sure enough, the vein in Marco's head popped out as he screamed out, "Shut up, you bastard!"
Shanks chuckled as he looked back to Whitebeard. "How about it? I have some information I need to talk about."
Whitebeard's eyes narrowed. "Is this about Ace?"
Shanks took in a deep breath. He could smell the distress radiating off of Thatch at the mention of Ace. From what Shanks was able to gather, Ace had left the Moby Dick to get revenge for Thatch. Who had been still fighting for his life when his son left the ship. He also noticed the wave of pheromones that came from Marco almost immediately after. Keeping his eyes on Whitebeard, he watched his movements. He didn't give any indication that he knew about the relationship between him and Ace. He tossed up the jug to Whitebeard, taking a seat on the deck. "It is." He confirmed. "You need to call Ace back. He's in far more danger than you realize with Teach." He paused as a glare was leveled on him at the demand. He was done with playing nice. Ace was in danger. "Don't you realize that Teach has been hiding in your shadow this entire time? Hiding his true power from all of you. I've gotten a taste of it more than once. Especially when he scarred my face. He used you for all these years. Playing you, and now Ace is going after him without knowing the true extent of that man's power."
Whitebeard growled. "What makes you think you can come onto my ship and talk to me like that, brat? Teach was one of my men. We will deal with him."
"You heard him red-hair! Just get out of here!" Marco exclaimed immediately after.
Shanks' gaze narrowed on Marco, who had walked over to stand next to Whitebeard. "Do you even know what the devil fruit he attacked Thatch for was?" The silence that came to the deck told Shanks all he needed to know. "From what my men were able to discover, Commander Thatch found the Yami Yami no Mi." He turned his head to look over to Thatch with a sad smile. "You just happened to find the wrong devil fruit." He said before looking back at Whitebeard. "The fruit is a logia type like Ace's fire abilities are. It's known as the most evil out of the Devil Fruits. It will give Teach the ability to control darkness and properties of gravity. Even someone standing feet away from him can't counteract this ability. It would literally drag a person to him. The power would allow for him to bring things into the darkness and store them there. Even destroy them. That is if he ate the fruit which I'm positive he has."
"Alright, what's this about, brat?" Whitebeard said, listening to what Shanks had to say. "All of this was over a devil fruit?"
Shanks nodded. "That fruit is unique. It's most frightening ability… it gives its user the ability to nullify devil fruit abilities." Both Whitebeard and Marco's faces turned to shock.
"What…" Marco whispered. "You mean…"
Shanks nodded. "If Teach ate the fruit, Ace does not stand a chance against him. He will be defeated."
Footsteps coming from beside him made him look over to where Thatch was approaching him. "How do you know what fruit it was?" He questioned, fear in his eyes. He could feel the fear starting to flood over the crew around him.
Shanks smiled. This was the man that Ace was willing to get revenge for. Ace had told him Thatch had been the first person he connected with on Whitebeard's ship before finally it was Marco who was able to get Ace to agree. Thatch always had been a good guy. Someone who cared. It was only logical that Ace would want to fight for him. Before Thatch was attacked, Ace had called him like they had once a month. Telling him about the Devil Fruit and what it looked like. "Because Ace told me."
"Ace knows what the fruit is?! And he still went!?" Marco exclaimed, his face warped into an expression that even Shanks couldn't read.
Shanks shook his head. "No. He just told me what it looked like. I did my research and I'm positive Teach did too." He paused, "Had I known what the fruit was on that call, I would have told him."
Shanks quickly noticed the uncertain looks on the others' faces. He had just revealed to them that he spoke with Ace, even before he left the ship. "Why would Commander Ace be calling you?"
Shanks sighed. He walked right into that one. "Well, I've known him his entire life. He was my apprentice after all."
Completely stunned silence. He quickly realized not one of these men had known that information. Shanks hadn't ran into the Whitebeard Pirates in a long time, especially with allowing Ace and Luffy to see them.
"He was your…" Marco muttered.
Son. "Apprentice. He had been on my ship before he could even walk. His brother too. You've probably heard of him, Strawhat Luffy."
Whitebeard's eyes were even wide. Had Ace never told him about growing up on the Red Force? It wasn't exactly information that Whitebeard needed to know.
"Oyaji." Marco said, looking up to Whitebeard.
"Even if I tried to call him back. He wouldn't listen. He's dead set on hunting down that bastard." Whitebeard finally said.
Shanks held his head up as he stood up. Bowing slightly in front of the other yonko. "I want to propose an alliance." He paused. "Ace is your Commander. Strong enough to run your second division… but he is still someone special to me. I will do anything to protect him. If you need me, I will be there."
When he looked up, he couldn't tell what the look in Whitebeard's eye was, but he was agreeing moments later. Which shocked Shanks to say the least. He was expecting something completely different.
X
With their official alliance, Shanks was on his way, following Ace's vivre card. Traveling in the direction the card was pointing too. Watching it as close as possible for any change. Whitebeard had caved and sent Marco out in search of him as well. Marco had left almost immediately after Shanks proposed the alliance, not even stopping long enough to gather belongings for the trip. An urgency in his step as he morphed into his phoenix and disappeared into the sky. He hoped with every part of him that Ace hadn't found Teach yet. If he was right about what he told Whitebeard, Ace wasn't going to win and would end up either dead or close to it. The thought was terrifying.
It had been a little over two weeks since then.
He had frozen almost completely as he watched Ace's vivre card slowly starting to burn. His heart dropping and eyes wide as he watched the paper burning. Flickering slightly.
They were too late.
X
They had stopped at Barano Island. The location that Ace's vivre card had been pointing before the burning started. Shanks choked down the lump in his throat as he walked along the destroyed town. The building covered in scorch marks and broken up into pieces. Littered around the place.
Shanks sucked in a breath as he stopped within the mess, Ace's hat sitting on the ground. Covered in dust. This is where Ace had finally found Teach.
And lost.
The Omega bent down, picking up the hat and dusting it off. Fighting off tears for the upmost time. His crew was searching the destruction. Looking for any other sign of Ace within the debris but came up with nothing.
The only thing left behind was his hat.
It made Shanks sick to his stomach. Teach had his hands on Ace and this was not going to end well.
X
His entire world came to a stop when Benn read the newspaper, his mouth dropping open and cigarette falling from his lips and hitting the ground. Shanks walked over, snatching the paper from his first mate. His eyes wide and tears coming to his eyes as he read the headline:
Fire Fist Ace Captured
Execution scheduled at Marineford
The Second Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates, Portgas D. Ace was apprehended by the Marines and has been sent to Impel Down to await his execution that will be taking place at Marineford.
The information continued but Shanks couldn't continue to read on. He felt like he could breathe as he clutched at his chest, tears falling over the brim of his eyes. The only reason he hadn't collapsed then and there was because Benn was standing directly next to him.
His son was captured… and was going to die.
"Set a course for Marineford! Now!" Benn barked, taking charge as Shanks kept his eyes locked onto the picture of Ace. Beat up. Bloodied and bruised from what he could tell. His pup. His pup was hurt and there was nothing he could do right now.
X
Their course was already set for Marineford when Shanks received word that Whitebeard was rallying all of his allies. All of them had agreed from what he could tell. They would be heading straight for Marineford. Whitebeard's ships were being coated by Rayleigh at Sabaody from what he learned as well. Whitebeard had called him personally to tell him of the news. Whitebeard was planning on infiltrating Marineford.
Which was good. The Marines wouldn't see it coming if Whitebeard came from underneath the other ships and through the water. Directly into the plaza of Marineford.
His mind was on Ace. His vivre card hadn't burnt anymore but the edges were still flickering. Ace was alive and that's what mattered at the moment.
"Hey, Shanks, it seems like Kaido is trying to intercept Whitebeard before he can get to Marineford." Yasopp stated walking into Shanks' captain's quarters. "Just got word about it."
Shanks nodded. Eyes hardening as he stood up. "Alright, slight chance of plans."
X
With one vivre card burning, the absolute last thing that Shanks wanted to ever see again was the other vivre card burning. Luffy's card's edges lighting up and starting to slowly burn away. His heart racing as he looked at the two vivre cards. Tears coming back to his eyes as he gripped the table.
His children. His pups. They were dying.
It had been Lucky Roux to tell him that Luffy had broken into Impel Down with the rest of the Strawhats after they managed to escape the warlord Kuma. Shanks knew that Luffy was going directly after Ace. Where he was locked away in Level Six of the prison.
He wanted to scream and cry to the heaven's. He wanted his pups here and safe with him. He couldn't do a damn thing. Not in that moment and it infuriated him.
"Ace… Luffy…" Is all he could say.
He clutched his fists, letting out a growl as he stood up to his full height. Avoiding conflict be damned. He was out for blood.
He just had to take care of one small speck of dust before he arrived.