They Don't Know About Us
Author's Note: Hey everyone and welcome back to They Don't Know About Us! So here is the Mihawk chapter! We will be back tracking to basically Mihawk's past and meeting Shanks, etc. The birth of their kids and what he's up to when he's not seeing Shanks, Ace, and Luffy. I do a small whoopsie in Shanks/Ace's chapters about Mihawk since Mihawk was already famous before Roger's execution. I'm fixing that here. Originally this chapter wasn't going to happen, but some people had showed interest so here we go! I hope you enjoy! On with the fic!
Additional Notes: We will be revisiting Ace's birth cause of something I didn't put with Rouge or Shanks' backstories cause I was leaving it for later. Originally, Shanks was only supposed to reveal it at Marineford, but since you guys wanted a Mihawk chapter, I'm putting it here instead. Ace's chapter talked about it. Also with Shanks and Mihawk's first meeting, if you read "Beautiful Like A Rose" from We Are (Family), you might recognize part of Mihawk's backstory. Though I don't really refer to that, more just how they met.
Just another forewarning: Mihawk will most likely be OOC especially around Shanks, Ace, and Luffy for obvious reasons. I'm going to do my best to keep him as in character as possible especially when he's not around his mate and kids. We'll see. Y'all be the judge xD I probably won't be able to get the way he normally speaks down to a T, so sorry ahead of time.
Chapter Warnings: Canon Violence, Mentions of Rape/Non-Con Elements, Male Pregnancy, Child Birth, Birth Complications
Chapter Eleven: Everyday (by High School Musical Cast)
Chapter Summary: As a child all Mihawk ever wanted to be was the World's Greatest Swordsman. On his journey, he meets a young boy named Shanks. At the execution of Gold Roger, he meets Shanks again and finds out Shanks wasn't just an apprentice. Sparking a relationship with him, the two eventually go on to have Ace and Luffy. When Ace is scheduled to be executed, Mihawk is approached about being at Marineford.
The World's Greatest Swordsman. That's what Mihawk wanted to be for as long as he could remember. He had always had a fascination with swords and the power that they could bring. He had strived to be stronger. Watching as his small village being decimated by pirates and bandits alike. A lawless place that was pillaged on an almost daily basis. His homeland couldn't afford the Heavenly Tribute, keeping them from the protection of the World Government, and no pirate crews to protect the place under their name.
All he could remember was the team up of the village's strongest getting together to protect their home. But their power was thin. Trying to protect an entire island on their own. Still, people managed to sneak in. Terrorizing women and Omegas alike. Doing as they pleased without a care in the world. Mihawk trained day in and day out to get stronger, utilizing his power within a sword.
The people of the village were kind. Caring. Every time he tried to recall anything about his own parents, he would just get shadows. Rumor had it that his father was a strong swordsman who had fallen trying to protect his wife and unborn child. He had been told his mother had faced a similar fate. Being killed protecting her son. He never knew how true that rumor actually was. No one had ever went into any detail about his parents. Preferring to keep him shielded from the information.
One day he would repay the people of the village. Without them, he would have been dead a long time ago. Providing him with what little food they could offer. Clothes that they managed to create for him. Even if it took years, he would repay this place for their kindness. He would become the strongest, placing them under his very own protection if he had too.
He was one of the only Alphas left in the village. His home mostly remaining of women, children, and Omegas who were fighting together to create a safe home despite the constant attacks they suffered.
Despite everything, they always rebuilt. Telling the children that their home would be safe one day. That they would never have to worry. They could grow up and follow their own dreams.
Dracule Mihawk had vowed to become the World's Greatest Swordsman. The strongest that even the mention of his name would cast fear into the hearts around them.
With that vow in mind, he left his home village at the age of eight with just the clothes on his back and a sword gifted to him from the townspeople. Well wishes sent his way as no one tried to stop him from leaving.
No one could stop him. Even if they tried. He had his goals in mind, Nothing could stop him now. Just vast open water, and the will to be the strongest.
X
His journey was not an easy one. Coming across people far stronger than him, and with his sword in hand, fought to defeat them. Eventually, somehow, overpowering them with a strange power flooding through him. During his travels, he had ran into a woman with a striking smile and freckles dusting her cheeks. Long curly blonde hair that had a tint of pink if you looked close enough. Fierce wine colored eyes that could freeze anyone in their tracks. The power that radiated off of her and through her blade.
Her interest had been piqued with him. Telling him that he wasn't very much different from herself. Having started her own journey sailing completely alone before she found her nakama.
She was the one to tell him that the power he had been using subconsciously was known as haki. Which he needed to train to make it stronger. Going as far as to say he could add the power into the blade of his sword to make it stronger. She had offered to help him, but he had promptly refused. This was something he had to do on his own. He would figure it out. Now that he knew what this power was, he would work to make himself that much stronger.
With her words, she departed, smiling as she left on her small boat. Leaving Mihawk to train for himself.
He had poured everything into learning how to master his haki. Refining his swordsmanship as he went. He would become the world's strongest. No matter how long it took for him to get there.
X
Gold Roger. A name known around the world. A swordsman that even went up against the likes of Whitebeard just for the fun of it. Their duels ringing out and power that you could feel from anywhere on the Grand Line.
Mihawk knew exactly who was the next person he was going to face, and it was going to be Gold Roger.
That's exactly what he had done. He had gone in search of the notorious pirate and his crew, finding them on a supply island. His eyes settled on the very man known as Roger. Within the last four years, he had gotten a grip on his haki. Trained his observation skills to the point he could now sense the power of those around him.
His eyes were already special as it was, not needing to use observation haki for merely looking at someone. A sharp glance that could track when the smallest of movements. Though he was only the age of twelve, his name was becoming known as the child who had been able to take down men multiple times his size. More so, the nickname stemmed from his very eyes.
Hawkeyes.
The shock he would see come to men's faces whenever they realized that Hawkeyes was just a mere child entertained him. They would often underestimate him just because of his age alone. Their mistake.
Though, in the end, he had ended up doing the same thing when he finally encountered the Roger Pirates for the first time. He had challenged Roger the minute he had seen him. The Alpha Captain just smirking at him, standing away from him before he stepped to the side. Two boys behind him. He identified the blue haired kid as an Alpha, and the one in the Straw Hat as an Omega. He felt a chill when he felt the haki signature of the Straw Hat boy. He wasn't looking at him, rather his attention on a chocolate bar in his hand.
"How old are you, kid?" Roger asked him.
Mihawk kept his back straight, returning his gaze back to Roger. "Twelve."
Roger bellowed a laugh, causing the vein in Mihawk's forehead to throb. "A young one, aren't yuh?"
Mihawk growled, bigging his nails into his palms. "Age means nothing when you have the power to back it up." He replied.
Roger looked at him for a moment, the smirk splitting into a large, toothy grin. "And what is your goal?"
"To be the strongest. Stronger than any other swordsman." Mihawk replied almost instantly.
Roger seemed to like his answer, but instead of pulling out his own sword, he turned towards the kids behind him. "Shanks." Straw Hat looked up, and with wordless communication, the boy –Shanks stepped forward, passing his chocolate bar over to Roger.
Shanks smiled at him, using his left hand to grab the sword on his hip. "Let's do this."
Mihawk took the challenge, grabbing his blade off of his back and pulling it out of its sheath. A smirk coming to his face. This kid was actually going to challenge him? He had defeated men close to Roger's level. How could he possibly win?
Mihawk watched his movements carefully. Tracking each movement as Shanks jumped forward. Bringing his sword up just in time to block Shanks' move. Moving his haki through his blade. His eyes widened for a split second as he saw the clash of haki. Shanks' blade had also been covered.
He had missed calculated. This kid was stronger than he looked. A smirk playing on his face as they continued to clash. Each movement being stopped by the other. Neither could get the other to back down. They couldn't lay a mark on each other.
Mihawk was impressed.
Beyond even.
Roger had announced a stalemate. Mihawk knew that this duel could go on for hours if they continued. Shanks appeared to be well trained. Fighting much like a veteran pirate despite being so young.
To say he was intrigued was an understatement.
X
From that point on, Mihawk sought out Shanks for duels. Dueling the kid at any chance he could get. Gaging the power between the two of them. It seemed the stronger Mihawk got. The stronger Shanks got.
Mihawk had been going around the seas, now in his new boat that appeared to be the shape of a coffin. Gaining his own notoriety across the seas. Challenging those stronger than him and winning. He was slowly running out of people who he could sincerely say were stronger than him.
It had gotten to the point that not one person could defeat him. Not even give him a proper fight. He would win within minutes. The only one he couldn't beat was Shanks. Always ended with a stalemate between the two. He had still yet to duel Roger. Desiring to know the differences in their power. All of these years of training and making himself better, the notorious pirate still wouldn't duel him.
He had found himself wanting to seek out Shanks that much more. A chance to finally defeat the red-haired apprentice. Shanks was now thirteen and Mihawk himself was seventeen. Despite how much smaller Shanks was to him. The differences in their fighting styles. The gap in their age, Shanks dueled him like they were adults.
He absolutely hated the bubbling feeling that he would get whenever he faced the red-haired Omega. There was almost a satisfaction to it whenever their swords would clash.
One that he was always looking forward too.
By the time he was sixteen, his name was already feared around the world. Striking fear into those who so much as said his nickname. He was so close to being the World's Greatest.
X
It had came as a shock to him when he had found Shanks and Roger on an island in the East Blue. In a small home hidden away at the edge of the island. However, they were not alone, he had ran directly into the same woman he had met at the age of eight. Hibiscus Rouge. An excellent swordsman and a Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates.
He had stopped at the island multiple times throughout the course of the year. He had been shocked to learn that the Roger Pirates had been quietly disbanded and that's why Roger and Shanks were on this island. They were in hiding from the World Government.
He had seen the sad look come to Shanks' face whenever they talked about it. Dueling each other and falling into peaceful conversation afterwards.
A part of him urged to comfort the Omega, try to get down to the bottom of what was causing him such distress.
As much as he tried to stay away, he always came back in search of the Omega. Citing to the younger pirate that he wanted to duel him, Roger, and Rouge. Rouge had indulged him. Even becoming surprised when Mihawk was able to beat her. He had heard of her duels against the Dark Knight Silvers Rayleigh. She fought with such grace.
Mihawk was even surprised he was able to defeat her.
Finally, Roger decided to duel him. Their swords clashing together in a grand amount of power. He could see the power radiating off of their blades. What he wasn't expecting was for Roger to be completely out of his league. Landing on his back with wide eyes as Roger stood over him with a grin. His sword placed on his shoulder and a hand on his hip.
"You shouldn't rush these things, Hawkeyes." Roger told him. "You will get there one day. Most people are already calling you the greatest. Hone your power and your skills. One day, you will be the top of this world with your sword."
Oddly enough, Mihawk believed him.
X
He had dueled Roger more whenever he came to the island. Shanks and Rouge sitting up by the house, lounging back as they simply watched the two fight. Shanks smiling at him as he would fight.
He would never admit to a soul that his smile made him stumble.
Ever.
It didn't happen.
Though, it gave an opening to Roger.
Once again he was defeated.
Each and every time. He landed on his back and the man would laugh and grin at him. Giving him some sort of pointer.
Other times he would feel his anger get the best of him. His annoyance from being unable to beat the Pirate King. This man had been the one to conquer the Grand Line. He was the best there was. He wasn't known for his swordsmanship, rather his bravery and undeniable urge to fight. His love of adventure.
Yet, here he was.
Defeating Mihawk like he was a speck of dust.
Just how much strength was between the two?
X
Once again, Mihawk found himself on his back. Huffing as he released his grip on his sword. Roger, like always, stood over him. This time, Roger helped him off of the ground. Mihawk looked over his shoulder to see Shanks sitting there in his usually spot. Talking to Rouge without a care. Head thrown back with a laugh erupting from him.
Mihawk felt the twist in his stomach, turning to look away as he dusted himself off. "I see the way you look at him." Roger's voice cut through Mihawk's very thoughts.
Mihawk felt his face heat up for just a second before he had quickly pushed it away. The Alpha swordsman looked up at the older man, seeing that Roger was also looking over to Shanks and Rouge. Instead of walking over to them like he normally did, he turned and moved towards the hill that overlooked the ocean.
Mihawk wasn't sure what complied him to follow. Other than the fact he did. "What look would that be?" He questioned as he sheathed his sword in place on his back and crossed his arms over his chest. Also looking out to the sea.
"It's always subtle. It's hard to notice unless you look close enough." Roger started, a low laugh rumbling in his chest. "You look at him like a man in love."
Mihawk felt his heart skip a beat in his chest, his nails tightening on his jacket. Was that what this strange feeling was? He was falling for the Omega? Sure, his hair was a striking color of red. The same shade that he would see on a rose. He had presented a rose to the Omega on more than one occasion, watching Shanks' face turn almost the same shade as his hair. He could tell you just how many freckles adjourned Shanks' cheeks. That you would only notice if you were up close to him since the Omega was always tan from being out in the sun. The way his hair curled and it was concealed underneath the confines of his straw hat. How contiguous his laugh and smile were that even Mihawk would find himself with a small smile. Shanks wore his emotions out in the open. Not afraid to show what he was feeling even if he didn't say it. Though, his eyes were a different story. They told the full truth. Looking into the depths of a mixture of thunderstorm clouds and shades of red. His true emotions laid there. Like the Omega would allow himself to show the world what he was feeling but had the true nature behind it all. Mihawk could find himself getting lost in those eyes if he wasn't careful. His scent was another thing entirely. A strong sweet aroma that was a mixture of cherry blossoms and strawberries. A scent that even Mihawk found himself wanting more of.
"How so?" He chose to say instead of anything else that came to mind about Shanks.
Roger just laughed. "You look at him like he's the only person in the room… like he's the sun." The Pirate King stated.
Mihawk eyed him for a moment, looking over his shoulder back at where Shanks was sitting. The Omega was still busy talking to Rouge.
"Mihawk, what I'm saying is you have my approval." Roger stated. Mihawk felt the air in his throat catch as he looked over to the older Alpha with wide eyes. "I don't have any worries about what the future will hold, knowing you're the man who captured my Shanks' heart."
Mihawk could only watch him as he walked away, finally going over to join Rouge and Shanks. A large grin still plastered on his face.
His approval, huh?
X
The final night that he had stopped at the island, he had discovered the truth. The Roger Pirates had been disbanded because they had conquered the Grand Line. They had went on their last journey and all Roger wanted to do was spend one final year before he would turn himself in.
Roger was dying rather it was by execution or natural causes.
He know understood why Shanks always looked so down whenever the Roger Pirates were brought up. The devastating end to a journey. The Roger Pirates and the Oro Jackson had been Shanks' home. The Omega telling him as much.
When the time came, Roger turned himself in.
X
The next time his new bounty poster came out, the words displayed on it as his nickname had him stopping in his tracks.
World's Greatest Swordsman
Written above his name. He had been recognized by the World and the World Government as the World's Greatest.
He wasn't. At least, not yet. He had yet to defeat Roger. Dueling the man and never once winning. He would end in a stalemate with Shanks.
Was he truly the World's Greatest if he couldn't even do that?
Still, he had achieved his dream. His purpose of picking up a sword. Now, he could fulfill that promise he made to himself.
X
The sky was clear. Sunny and bright. Odd for a day like today. The public execution of Gol D. Roger, the King of the Pirates. Mihawk stood in the town square, staring up at where Roger was sitting cross legged on the scaffold, a large grin on his face the entire time.
Mihawk had picked up on Shanks' scent fairly quickly. He was once again with Hibiscus Rouge. The two standing with each other as Roger was having his final moments.
Mihawk couldn't tear his gaze away from Roger. Something about the man had always been so intriguing. The one man that he had never won against. The man who had done it all. Had achieved everything the world had to offer.
Roger's final words had been the start of a new era. One that could either be good for the world or bad. It was the start of the Great Pirate Era. Mihawk was curious to see where this went.
Clouds now covered the sky, a loud crash of thunder followed by a strike of lightning. Within seconds, Loguetown was drenched in a shower of rain. The water soaking anyone who was still outside. It was like the weather itself was signaling a change in the world.
Mihawk wondered if this was Roger's purpose. What he had gained to achieve by turning himself in. He could have spent the rest of his life as a free man. Instead, choosing to turn himself in and be executed.
Roger really was an intriguing man.
X
Mihawk had smelt the distress from Shanks the entire time of Roger's execution. From the minute that the Alpha Captain was being lead to the scaffold and even past when Roger was executed.
Finding the Omega had been easy, there was only one place in all of Loguetown he could be. The Gold Roger Bar. Sure enough, the second he walked in, he saw Shanks sitting at the bar, leaning against his arms staring at the glass in front of him. His straw hat shielding his eyes from view, but he was sure that if he saw them that they would be red and puffy.
Just from where he was standing, he could see the flush on his face from the clear signs of intoxication. He walked over, taking a seat directly next to him as Shanks finally drank the liquor that was in his cup. The Omega had signaled for another one, but Mihawk stopped the bartender from giving him another. Shanks was already wasted as it was, he didn't need to give himself alcohol poisoning.
His actions angered Shanks, but Mihawk wasn't about to sit by and let Shanks waste himself away in this bar. The bar was crawling with pirates and civilians alike. No place for a drunk teenager.
They mostly sat in silence, Shanks even going so far as to lean his head against Mihawk's shoulder. The Alpha could smell the booze on him mixed in with his scents and distress that was lingering. Mihawk moved until he could place his arm over his shoulders and pulled the grieving teenager into him.
They sat just like that. In silence as Mihawk looked at the other patrons in the bar. One Alpha even eyeing Shanks up and down. It was then when Mihawk pulled Shanks up, glaring at the Alpha as they walked past and out of the bar.
To make sure Shanks stayed by his side, he intertwined their fingers, letting the Omega practically lean fall into him the entire time they walked through Loguetown to get to the inn that Mihawk was staying at. Shanks was stumbling at every movement, trying to keep up straight but failing to do so. Mihawk carrying most of his weight around as they got up the steps of the inn and to the room that Mihawk was renting.
He wasn't expecting for Shanks to finally look up, an unknown glint in his eye that he could only figure was a mixture of mischievous and even… lust? His cheeks a deep shade of pink and eyes glossy. "If you wanted to sleep with me. Why didn't you just say so?"
Mihawk sighed with a roll of his eyes. Today was not the day for any type of feelings. Despite Mihawk's desire for the Omega in front of him, he could not with a kind heart do that to Shanks. Shanks was grieving and beyond drunk. Someone can't exactly consent when they are intoxicated to the point they can't even walk. "Not while you're drunk."
Shanks grinned at him, making Mihawk's heart skip a beat and his stomach tighten. "That wasn't a no." Mihawk snorted, guiding Shanks over to the bed and placed him down. Even taking the moment to pull the straw hat from around his neck and his shoes off of him. Muttering for the Omega to sleep off his drunken state.
He took a seat on the other bed, grabbing the book that he had gotten from the store the other day and opened it back up to the page he was on. They were only in silence for a minute when he heard a sound from Shanks followed by, "He wasn't just my Captain. He was my father."
Mihawk's eyes went wide for a moment before he put the mask back on. It makes sense now. The relationship between Shanks and Roger always seemed so much closer than just a Captain and an apprentice. Why Shanks was with him in his final year before his imprisonment.
How had he not seen it before?
For having such a good eye for things, he missed something major like this.
Though, for safety reasons, he could understand. The World Government had searched for a child during the year of Roger's imprisonment. He knew exactly what the Marines were trying to do. They were trying to find the child and kill him or her including their mother. Just because of being related to Roger.
He had questioned Shanks about Rouge. Asking if the woman was his mother, to which he confirmed. Mihawk knew that this world could never know about Shanks. That his father was the Pirate King himself. They would do anything to kill him. He couldn't allow that.
He would protect Shanks' secret. No matter what.
X
Mihawk could have returned back to the Grand Line at any time that he wanted. Shanks had been staying in Loguetown till his new ship was built to start off of his own journey. Mihawk had offered him to room with him.
It was during that time that their relationship had changed completely. They were no longer just dueling partners. No longer just friends.
It had started only a week after Roger's execution. They had gone out drinking together. More, Shanks wanted to go out and drink and dragged Mihawk out with him. For the first time since Roger's execution, he had seen a smile on Shanks' face. A true smile. Not one of the forced ones that Shanks could easily plaster on his face to hide the pain. It was always his eyes. It gave him away each time.
On the way back to his – at this point theirs – room, Shanks was giggling happily next to him, babbling on about something that Mihawk didn't quite catch. Neither of them were drunk, having sobered up at the bar, rather just enjoying each other's company.
Shanks' scent was making its way up to his nose, clouding the Alpha's mind as they finally got back to the room. As the Omega tried to slip out of his shoes, he tripped over his own feet, crashing straight into Mihawk. Sending them both into the floor. Well, it was more, Shanks tripped and and tried to catch himself, pulling Mihawk down right on top of him.
Shanks' face had turned into the shade of red that was almost the same as his hair. His eyes wide as he realized what position they were in. His hands were on either side of his head. Mihawk's arms bracing himself up as his own eyes widened.
His nose twitched, catching the familiar pheromones surging through the air that only an Omega could produce. The feel of Shanks' heated skin. His scent getting that much more intoxicating.
Mihawk didn't think twice before he was leaning down, pressing his lips directly into Shanks'. Shanks gasping for a split second before he relaxed and his eyes slipped shut, turning his head enough to fix the awkward angle that they were at. Shanks' hands had moved from the floor, gripping at the front of Mihawk's jacket.
Mihawk moved, careful not to break the two of them apart, as he directed them towards the bed. Falling on his back with Shanks on top of him. "Please." Was all he needed to hear from Shanks.
X
Once Shanks' ship was complete, Mihawk departed from Loguetown, heading back towards the Grand Line. It had been a couple of months since then. Mihawk had acquired a new sword in the form of the Black Blade: Yoru. One of the twelve legendary swords. Beautifully crafted and just perfect.
He had picked up word that Shanks had found his own crew and was already back in the Grand Line with a decent sized crew that he had picked up within the East Blue.
Arriving at the Red Force had shocked when he got a good look at Shanks' face. Three fresh scars across his left eye and a new jolly roger hanging on his ship, matching his newfound scars. Mihawk walked straight up to Shanks, placing his hand on the underside of his jaw, carefully running this thumb over the skin. Shanks barely winced at the pressure, signifying that they were indeed still mostly fresh. From the healing, they couldn't be more than a month old.
"Hey, Mihawk." Shanks muttered.
"What happened?" Mihawk questioned, taking a better look at the injury. Shanks tried to shy away, attempting to turn his head to keep Mihawk from continuing to look at the wound.
The Alpha moved his hand from Shanks' jaw to the side of his face, slowly turning his head back to where Shanks would look him in the eye. "That Alpha from the Whitebeard Pirates in my mom's division… Teach. He… I don't know how he got past me. My guard was up, my defenses never changed…"
Mihawk's eyes narrowed. That wasn't all. Shanks was hiding something else from him. "Shanks, what is it?"
Shanks sighed. The pheromones of distress started to come off of him. Shanks putting his arms around himself. "It's just something that Teach said is all. It's nothing really."
Mihawk eyed him for a second. "You're lying. You've always been bad at it. Whatever that pest said to you is becoming a burden on you." The Alpha stated. The air that caught in Shanks' throat was all that he needed to know. "It's not the wound that actually hurts you. It's whatever was said to you."
The Omega shuffled on his feet. "It wasn't even that bad… I guess it only got to me cause he had already broke through my defenses… I felt power off of him that I've never felt before. I know he has the power to back it up." He paused. "He told me that at any time he could come for me and make me his bitch. He said that people like me belonged chained to a bed and dominated by people like him."
Mihawk growled. That fucking bastard. The Alpha pulled away from Shanks, turning on his heel and starting for the rail of the ship. Shanks' hand caught his wrist. "Let go of me, Shanks."
"Mihawk, I promise you that it's fine." Shanks pleaded. "Don't do this. If you do, you'll wage war against the Whitebeard Pirates."
Mihawk turned his head, looking Shanks dead in the eye and freezing completely. The look in his eye looked almost like fear. "Red-hair, if you do not stand up for yourself, you will gain a reputation for being a pushover."
Shanks looked to the ground; his eyes being concealed by his hat. "It's not that… that's my mom's crew… and from what I know, Whitebeard-san will not hesitate. He will defend Teach." The Omega's entire body shook. "It's not like I haven't heard it all before. I am an Omega who sails the seas. It's not that I'm being a pushover… I just know when a fight is not worth it. I can't and won't allow you to start a war for me."
Mihawk eyed him for a moment. He had never had so much anger directed at a person he has never come into contact with before. Seeing Shanks now only made him want to go slice up Teach's face that much more.
He was willing to go to war for Shanks.
He took a deep breath, calming himself enough that he turned all the way back towards Shanks. The red-haired Omega finally looked back up at him. "Just this once, Shanks."
That's the moment that Mihawk knew that he was stupidly in love with Shanks. Wanted nothing more than to use the very blade on his back to protect him.
X
Mihawk wanted Shanks more than anything in the world. He wanted Shanks to be his. He had gone to the most well known jeweler to get the traditional necklace made. From the one that Shanks wore from his mother around his neck, he could safely assume that his family was definitely one that followed the traditional views. He often saw them within his own home village. Men and women alike wearing them from their partners. He had always been fascinated with them. Personalized to the ones who they would be going to. Usually incooperated with some symbol that came from both parties.
He had had gone with the design that he wanted displayed on it. Something simple. The freshly made necklace in his hand. It was beautifully crafted. Something perfect for the Omega. The design was meant to look like a jolly roger. His own sword and Shanks' new sword Gryphon crossed behind a cherry blossom flower.
He had the strange feeling of nervousness flooding through him as he sought out Shanks again. Finding him on a supply island in Paradise. Almost as soon as the two saw each other, their duel was started. Their swords clashing. That beautiful smile plastered on Shanks' face as haki covered blades hit. Mihawk wore the same grin on his own face. Despite his love of dueling Shanks, feeling their power intertwine, he couldn't shake off the nerves.
Their duel had lasted for hours. Just like every other time that they saw each other, it ended in a stalemate. Shanks had a wide grin on his face as he sat down in the sand near their stuff, grabbing onto a water bottle. He had sat down next to him, bracing himself up on his arms as he too looked out to the ocean. Even the smell of the salt water couldn't overpower the scent radiating off of the Omega. His scent always getting stronger whenever he was genuinely happy.
Mihawk toyed with the chain in his pocket, eyeing the Omega for a moment. Seeing the way the sun hit his skin, illuminating the freckles that usually always remained hidden. His eyes shining as he stared out at the ocean. Hat perfectly placed on his head and whisps of slightly curly red hair peeking out from underneath it.
Mihawk shoved down all the unnecessary emotions as he caught Shanks' attention. He almost had a fear in the pit of his stomach that Shanks would actually say no. That he had been reading all the signs wrong this entire time. He took in a deep breath, putting the same poker face that he always had on, standing up and going around Shanks until he was kneeling behind him. He reached around, the necklace in hand until it was dangling directly in front of the Omega. He couldn't even find the words to say. He had ran what he could possibly tell Shanks through his mind over and over again through the course of their duel. Instead he just chose, "Would you accept?" His lips ghosting over Shanks' ear that he could feel him shudder. Shanks didn't give him a verbal answer, instead nodded.
The Alpha felt the tug on his own lips, a smile slipping onto his face as he clasped the necklace around Shanks' neck. Taking satisfaction in running his fingers over the Omega's exposed skin. Knowing exactly where to touch that would send chills down Shanks' spine. Tracing the curve that connected the Omega's neck and shoulder. Smirking at the way that he could feel Shanks' body react to him.
Shanks had turned, leaning back against his legs. Their faces close enough that Mihawk could feel the younger pirate's breath against his lips. Mihawk had made the first move, leaning forward and capturing Shanks' lips into a kiss. Shanks' arms wrapping around his shoulders and fingers finding a way into his hair. The Alpha didn't hesitate in the slightest as he stood up, hands on the Omega's hips before he was pulling him off of the ground. Shanks wrapping his legs around him before Mihawk was carrying him off towards the Red Force.
Shanks was his and his alone.
X
Garp showing up on the island that Mihawk was at was the last thing that he expected. The Vice Admiral grinning at him with a bag of rice crackers in hand. He had calculated his options of getting away from the Marine. Garp the Fist was absolutely the last Marine he wanted an encounter with. Garp was at the level of Roger. No one in their right mind would go against that man.
Either way, Mihawk's hand instinctively went for Yoru, prepared to attempt to fight his way out. That was until Garp started laughing. "Dracule Hawkeyes Mihawk. The World's Greatest Swordsman himself." He started off, munching on another rice cracker.
"What does a Navy Vice Admiral want with me? I'm in no mood to fight today." Mihawk replied.
Garp laughed again, eating a few more rice crackers. To say Mihawk was confused was an understatement. He knew Garp the Fist was bat shit crazy, but this was something else. Mihawk was a wanted criminal, and Garp was here… eating.
"I'm not here to arrest you." The Alpha Marine stated.
"What are you here for? Certainly not pleasantries." Mihawk replied. "Your reputation proceeds you and here you are snacking without a care in the world."
Garp shrugged. "I'm here on official orders. Hunt down Dracule Mihawk."
"And?"
"The World Government has started a new system where a select few pirates have been chosen to become Warlords of the Sea." Garp said.
"Warlord?" It certainly peeked Mihawk's interest. This was definitely something new on the sea. He had never heard of such a thing.
"Long story short, Warlords are government sanctioned pirates who will have their bounties frozen in exchange for your services." Garp explained, going on to further explain the role of a Warlord.
Mihawk narrowed his eyes. "It sounds more like being the Government's lap dog."
"Perhaps." Garp replied. "I am here to extend the invitation to you. The World Government wants you as one of the seven."
There was something more to this. Something that Garp wasn't telling him. He could tell by the Alpha's body language. "And if I refuse?"
The Marine shrugged. "It would raise your bounty. We would probably have to fight cause you are still a pirate after all."
Mihawk could careless about the raising of his bounty, but fighting Garp was something he absolutely did not want to do. That wouldn't scare him into accepting the position. Escaping Garp would not be an easy task. From what Garp was telling him, this invitation was being extended to him because the Government feared his power. It gave him a sense of pride knowing that even the Marines feared him.
"Any pirate who accepts that position would be nothing short of a sell out. I don't exactly take to the idea of being the government's pet." Mihawk stated, turning on his heel to start back towards his ship.
"I could always go after that red-haired brat. He's nearby from what I've heard. His ship was last seen at an island not far from here." That statement had Mihawk stopping in place. His heart skipping a beat. "He's got a large bounty and the Government really wants their hands on him, even if he is just sixteen. He's gained such a reputation already."
Mihawk turned his head, glaring towards the Vice Admiral. Garp was sitting cross legged on the ground, still eating away at his rice crackers. "What Red-Hair does has nothing to do with me."
Garp smirked at him. "You sure?" Mihawk didn't reply back to him. "I think it's quite the opposite with that courting necklace around his neck." The air caught in Mihawk's throat. "You don't seem like a man that would allow harm to come to someone he loves or am I wrong?"
"You think this is the way to influence my decision? Threatening Red-Hair to get what you want?" Mihawk questioned.
Garp sighed, grabbing another rice cracker. "Warlords will have access to places and information that a normal pirate wouldn't have." The Marine said. "That would include if the World Government ever discovered the secret that Red-Haired Shanks is keeping. Since you're sleeping with him, I would assume that you know what it is."
Mihawk grabbed for Yoru, unsheathing the blade from his back, and turning to face Garp. If Garp knew Shanks was Roger's son, that could stem from Garp's past with the Pirate King. If they truly knew, they would have released that information. Garp was hiding something and Mihawk was sure of it. Though, he was using that same secret against him. It's the only secret that Mihawk knew from Shanks that would possibly spike the interest of the Marines. They did want him dead after all and not just for being a pirate. A search for Roger's child had happened once before. If they found out about Shanks, nothing would stop them from going after the Omega Captain. "I would die before I allowed the scum of the World Government lay a hand on him."
"You've got balls, brat. Pulling your sword on me." Garp grinned, standing up and cracking his knuckles. "You still haven't given me an answer."
Mihawk tightened his grip on Yoru, placing haki onto the blade. "You'll have to go through me if you want to get to him." Garp was playing dirty. Targeting Shanks into trying to get what he wants.
"I could care less about this Warlord system. Once a pirate, always a pirate. It doesn't matter if you're sanctioned or not. Though, having such strong forces on our side with the rise of the Emperors of the Sea, it's beneficial in keeping balance." Garp added. "Keep in mind, there is a special clause you can use to your advantage one day if you choose to accept. Accept and I'll leave the Red-Haired brat alone."
What are his motives? What am I missing?
"You think blackmailing will suffice?" Mihawk growled.
Garp shrugged, grabbing yet another rice cracker. Even with Yoru drawn, Garp wasn't taking this seriously. Just snacking. It was working to infuriate Mihawk. This man was on the same level as Roger. The only difference between the two, Roger was a swordsman.
"I'm just negotiating."
"It's distasteful." Mihawk replied.
"Coming from a notorious outlaw?" On one hand, the perks of being a Warlord severely outweighed the cons. The bit that Garp had stated about access to restricted information and locations. Being able to still do what he wants on the seas with a frozen bounty. The World Government and the Marines would leave him alone. Garp had explained that he would need to be present when summoned but didn't have to actively participate. They would ignore all of his crimes. All for a cut of any profits that he made with the task of going after other pirates. He would admit, he did like the idea a bit more than he showed. "I would consider carefully, Hawkeyes."
Mihawk sighed, sheathing Yoru back on his back and grossing his arms over his chest. "If this will be worth my time and effort, I only ask for two things."
"And that would be?" He could hear the smugness in Garp's voice.
"One, protection placed on my home island without the need for the theft that is the Heavenly Tribute." Mihawk stated.
Garp nodded. "I can arrange that."
"Two, leave Red-Hair alone." The Alpha swordsman finished.
Garp laughed. "I can see what I can do about that. He isn't under the Warlord contract since he is not your subordinate, so it would all depend on his own actions. As of hunting him down now, I won't go after him." The Marine stated.
"Fair enough."
"That brat is one of the smartest pirates on the seas, even already creeping up into the most powerful on the Grand Line." Garp said. "I wouldn't be surprised if he reached Emperor level at some point." The Marine sighed. "So, am I taking that as an acceptance."
"I will accept." Mihawk confirmed.
Garp smiled. "Good. A formal acceptance will be done in Marineford so head there immediately to get it done." Without another word, Garp turned to walk off. Mihawk watched him for second before turning and walking away.
Pausing as the hairs on the back of his neck stood up. He turned just in time to see Garp. Garp's fist smashing into the top of his head and sending him into the ground. "I just accepting being a Warlord?! Thought that meant I'm a Marine ally?!" He exclaimed before he could even think about it.
Garp bellowed a laugh. "Nah, that is a warning."
"For what exactly?" Mihawk questioned, rubbing at the knot on his head.
"I know you're sleeping with my grandson. You've basically admitted it. Hurt him and they will never find your body." Garp stated.
Mihawk's eyes went wide in shock. "Grandson?!"
Garp dusted his hands off, starting to walk off towards where his ship was. "I saw Shanks before I came to see you. That's how I knew." He paused, turning his head to look at Mihawk once more. "Remember what I told you. You will have an advantage. Use it." With that, the Vice Admiral was on his way.
Garp the Fist was seriously Shanks' grandfather? Now that was some family dynamic. He could only watch dumbfounded as Garp walked away.
Well, at least he was no longer a wanted man.
X
The next time he had seen Shanks, he had told him of his new Warlord status. The Omega laughing at him for a moment about being a servant of the government before immediately insisting on a duel. That's when he first started to notice the change.
Shanks' movements were slower, less calculated. The purple bags underneath his eyes from clear signs of exhaustion. Shanks was definitely not himself. The Omega was normally so energetic and full of life and now he was practically dead on his feet. Even his scent was almost uncontrollable. Stronger and radiating through the air.
Their duel never came to a finish as Mihawk watched as Shanks' hold on Gryphon loosened and his eyes started to droop. Within seconds Shanks' sword as on the ground and the Omega was falling forward. Mihawk rushed forward, putting haki into his legs to make him faster, discarding Yoru as Shanks all but crashed into him.
Keeping Shanks balanced against him with one arm, he used the other to grab Yoru and secure it back on his back before grabbing Shanks' sword. Sliding the other sword into the space next to Yoru, he carefully picked Shanks up and headed back towards the Red Force.
He looked down at the sleeping Omega. Only knowing for a fact he was just asleep by the way his breathing was evened out. "What is going on with you, Red-Hair?" He questioned.
Understanding came to the faces of Shanks' crew as he went aboard the ship, heading straight to Shanks' quarters and placing him on his bed. Taking the second to grab Gryphon's sheath, he put Shanks' sword where it rightfully belonged.
When Shanks finally came too, he didn't look any more rested up than he had before. "For someone who stays out of conflict, you look exhausted." Mihawk simply stated.
Shanks just groaned, curling up within the blankets of his bed much to Mihawk's amusement.
Staying for the night, Mihawk headed out the next morning.
X
Mihawk couldn't place the feeling that he was having. Ever since he had met Shanks, he was just a wave of unnecessary emotions. The Alpha couldn't shake of the need to seek out Shanks. That's when he found himself on the small island of Baterilla in the South Blue. Why Shanks was in the South Blue, he didn't know? Shanks had been in Paradise the longest.
Something was going on. He just knew it in his gut.
So when he had finally made it to the island, his feet carried him directly to a home that was sitting up on a hill, overlooking the town below.
As soon as he got to the home, he didn't miss the way that the Red-Hair Pirates and Hibiscus Rouge quietly excused themselves from the room. Just leaving himself and Shanks standing there. Shanks' eyes were concealed by his hat. He didn't have to see his eyes to see just how nervous and uncertain the Omega was in that moment. The way he rubbed his hands on his pants. Shanks was nervous.
"I'm pregnant, Mihawk." Shanks whispered.
Pregnant? Shanks was… pregnant. With his pup. Mihawk had never thought about having a family. He didn't know his parents. He had no siblings. The villagers who took care of him as a child were the closest thing he had ever had to one and even then he wasn't a pack member or blood related to any of them. He had truly never thought about children. Having one of his own. He knew he wanted Shanks as his mate, and the possibility of siring a child with him put a smile on his face.
Having a child was terrifying. Another life that needed protection. Needed to be kept safe from harm. Cared for. Here he was, the Alpha father of an unborn life. A life that he would die for.
Mihawk brought Shanks up into his arms, lifting him off the ground as he buried his nose into Shanks' scent gland. So, this was why his scent was stronger. Why he looked exhausted when Mihawk knew he was sleeping enough. The sudden change in Shanks' appetite.
Mihawk knew he was grinning like a mad man. He was going to be a father. He was going to have a pup. A little life that was created by him and Shanks.
Nothing would ever stop him from protecting that life. He had achieved his goals that he set out to do as a child. Already getting reowned as the World's Greatest. The world feared his name so much that the World Government pardoned all his crimes just so he was in all technicality their ally. He had found someone he could put his love and trust into.
Now, they were going to have a child and Mihawk couldn't be happier.
That night, Shanks officially became his mate.
X
Shanks was now nearing the end of his pregnancy. The pregnancy had been a rough one. Leaving Shanks depleted of all energy, unable to keep anything down leading to severe sickness. Still, the Omega pushed on. Placing a smile on his face and using the small times he had energy to take walks around Baterilla. Mihawk and Shanks' crew all had made sure that Shanks was comfortable. Not doing any tasks that could overexert himself.
Even seeing just how miserable Shanks was, he never missed the way his mate would smile with a hand on his swollen abdomen where their pup was shielded away from the world until they were ready. Shanks had picked out their name. Ann for a girl, Ace for a boy. Ace was a tribute to Roger, even if the world wouldn't know that. Ace had been the name of Roger's sword that was a part of the twelve supreme swords that Yoru belonged with.
Mihawk had blatantly ignored all summons by the Marines during the course of his stay on Baterilla. The summons coming in the form of letters. There was absolutely no way he was leaving Shanks. Not like this.
When it came time, Shanks went into labor. Walking around the house as he tried to walk off the pain that Mihawk could see that he was in. The discomfort clear on Shanks' face the entire time. Mihawk followed closely behind him or even was leaning against something not far from him, in just the case if he ever needed him or help.
The entire room had gone silent when Shanks let out a pained scream, a loud and bloodcurdling one, doubling over on himself. Shanks' panic and distress was heavy in the air as Mihawk caught him muttering, "Something's wrong." The absolute panic and pain his voice.
The Alpha didn't think twice before he was putting one arm behind Shanks' back and the other underneath his legs before taking off directly for the bedroom that had been set up for the delivery. Everything that they could possibly need for the birth inside. Surgical instruments if something were to go wrong. Blood if Shanks needed a transfusion. Fluids. Pain medication. It actually impressed Mihawk with just how prepared the Red-Hair Pirates were for this.
Placing him down onto the bed, Aki and Rouge worked on getting the Omega's pants off and Mihawk froze at the sight in front of him. The blood running down his thighs, and at an alarming rate. He heard both Aki and Rouge curse. Aki used one of the ultrasound snails to check on the pup and to check for what exactly had happened. Rouge stating that it was a possible placental abruption to which Aki confirmed. "The pup is in distress and losing oxygen. They need to come out now." Aki muttered, just loud enough that it wouldn't reach Shanks but Mihawk, Rouge, Yasopp, and Benn had heard it.
Shanks was still panicking on the bed, letting out pained noises as Aki went busy to work with Rouge assisting him. Mihawk felt the fear coursing through him. Shanks was rapidly losing blood; their pup was distress and they needed to be delivered immediately. He took in a deep breath, forcing himself to remain calm. If Shanks even caught a hint that Mihawk was concerned, it would only work to rile him up more.
The Alpha was careful as he moved Shanks up as Aki stated that Shanks was indeed fully dilated, climbing behind him and allowing Shanks to use him as a support. Shanks' breathing was heavy and labored. His skin already turning a concerning pale shade. Mihawk carefully pulled off Shanks' straw hat and placed it to the side, running his fingers through his hair as he intertwined their fingers to give Shanks something to grip on. Whispering sweet nothings and encouragements.
That's what he continued to do as the others worked around them. Blood being hung next to them that was giving Shanks a much needed transfusion. Mihawk couldn't push down the feeling that he might lose both of them. He could feel how much weaker Shanks was getting. Struggling just to do what his body naturally could do. Benn monitoring the pup and giving updates to Aki. Updates that concerned Mihawk. Their pup's heartbeat was dropping and slowly losing oxygen that they needed.
He tightened his grip on Shanks hand and mentally pleaded with anyone who would listen to make sure their pup and Shanks got through this alive. He couldn't lose them.
Mihawk knew it was only a short time, but it felt like an eternity before Shanks let out a gasp and a loud cry filled the room following close behind. Mihawk let out his own breath of relief as Rouge announced that the pup was a boy. The Omega woman cleaning their newborn pup off before placing him directly on Shanks' chest.
If Mihawk didn't know what love was before, he certainly did now. His eyes landing on their pup. His little face scrunched up crying for a moment before he quieted down. Freckles dusting his cheeks much like the ones he saw on Shanks and Rouge's faces. Black hair covering his head. His eyes barely cracked up that he could see the color was similar to Shanks' eyes. The gel coated over them to protect their pup from bacteria.
Mihawk reached out, rubbing his knuckle over the pup's cheek. A smile on his face as he looked at his child. Their pup was here healthy. Perfectly healthy.
"Ace…" Shanks whispered. His voice was so quiet that even Mihawk barely heard him. The clear exhaustion in it. "His name is Gol D. Ace."
They had came to the agreement that their pup would carry Roger's family name, even if their pup didn't use that name in the future. Roger was someone that Mihawk highly respected and it was Shanks' own true name. It had been Mihawk's idea in the first place for the name Gol to be used. They could always cover it up later since the doctor who delivered Ace was Shanks' own doctor and not one at a hospital. Mihawk honestly didn't care if his own family name was passed on. He didn't know his birth family. Anything about them. It was his name, but he did fear that if someone heard his pup with his family name that harm would come to them before being connected to him. The same could be said for any birth name that they chose. Portgas. Gol. Monkey. Mihawk. Names that all carried meaning but was connected to some sort of person who it could be used against. One day, Ace could decide what full name to use. For now, he would carry his true name. A name that Mihawk personally liked. It was fitting for the pup that was in Shanks' arms.
With the others now out of the room, leaving the couple in silence with their pup. Mihawk was now sitting in the chair next to the bed as Shanks held a bottle to Ace as the pup drank up the milk. Mihawk was leaning against his hand, just watching his mate and pup.
That was until he noticed Shanks' eyes starting to slip shut and his grip loosening on Ace. The bottle slipped from Shanks' hand, and his other arm starting to slip. Ace from where he had been in Shanks' hold started to slip down his Omega father's chest. Mihawk reached out, catching Ace before he could go any further, pulling the pup to the safety of his own chest. "Shanks?" Mihawk questioned, shaking Shanks' shoulder but the Omega didn't respond to him. Didn't even move.
Mihawk's eyes widened as he abruptly stood up, his heart pounding against his chest as Ace cried in his arm. Shanks' chest moved at a rapid pace, his breathing uneven. The Alpha paused as through the corner of his eye, red caught his attention. The others hadn't been out of the room very long at all. Aki said everything was fine. This didn't look fine. He grabbed the blanket with his free hand, throwing it back. The air catching in his throat at the amount of blood that was coating the blanket underneath. Covering Shanks' previously freshly cleaned thighs. Something was wrong. Majorly wrong. Not one of them had noticed.
"Aki! Rouge!" He called out, going back to trying to get Shanks to respond to him. His ears ringing as all the possibilities ran through his mind.
The door flew open not even a second later with the four returning. Aki cursing loudly as he quickly instructed the others. "Mihawk, c'mon, we need to help him." Rouge muttered, hands on his biceps to guide him away. His eyes clued to Shanks as they worked.
"The abruption caused a hemorrhage. I need to get in there and stop the bleeding. I need more blood hung up." Aki instructed, sterilizing his hands and slipping into some gloves as he threw out more instructions.
Ace let out a small cry in his arm, temporarily taking Mihawk's attention away from Shanks as he looked down at the infant. "It's alright, Ace. Your momma's strong. He's a fighter. He'll pull through."
X
Shanks had pulled through perfectly fine. Sore and exhausted and was now resting. Ace was secured in Mihawk's arms the entire time as he sat there next to Shanks until he had finally woke up.
Mihawk had just sat there, between rocking and tending to Ace and looking at Shanks and checking over him, he thought to himself.
In that moment, he vowed to do everything in his power to protect his mate and son. He wouldn't let harm come to them. No matter what. No matter what he had to sacrifice. They were his world, and he would do anything to make this world a place where his pup could live free. Freer than even Mihawk himself. Even if he had continued to sell himself out to the Marines to do so. It was his new desire.
X
As Ace grew, he watched as Shanks even slowly started to change. Shanks still liked to drink and have parties, but he was far tamer than before. Not getting wildly drunk to where he would have to be all but carried off to his room to sleep it off.
Every time that he came to the Red Force, Ace would immediately motion for him. Wanting him. The pup being glued to his side the second he got onto the ship until the second that he had to leave. He never left because he wanted to. He wanted nothing more than to stay with Shanks and Ace on the Red Force. With his title as a Warlord, he didn't exactly have a choice when he got a summons.
Garp's words still rang through his head from that day. The Vice Admiral never liberated on what it was, but was sincere in telling Mihawk to keep his position no matter what. So, for the time being, he used it to his advantage.
There were two things that bugged Shanks ever since the death of his father and Captain. Where did they take his body following his execution? Where was the Oro Jackson? The Oro Jackson had taken all its nakama to places all over the world, dropping them off one by one, no one had seen the ship since. No one knew its whereabouts. The same could be said about Roger's body. Following his death, his body had been taken away. It was unclear if he was cremated or if he was buried somewhere in Loguetown.
Mihawk was bound determined to find out.
Just like Garp had said, he did have access to information that pirates couldn't just get on the seas. It also gave him access to equipment such as sea stone that was used against Devil Fruit users. No Marines ever came near him and if he was near the Red Force, they left Shanks alone.
Shanks had told him that Marines rarely ever tried to attack him. Though, Mihawk could only guess that was from the pacifist nature that Shanks showed. Shanks didn't engage in unnecessary fights unless he felt the need to. His men were the same way. All of them living a peaceful and adventurous life. All they had to worry about most of the time was rival pirate crews thinking they could take on the Red-Hair Pirates.
Ace was a happy child. Finding joy in everything. Especially in Yoru. Constantly grabbing at the blade that would instantly have Shanks fretting over him. That was until one day, he actually tried – and failed – to unsheathe it. Shanks had an absolute pain as Ace giggled when Mihawk pulled it out completely.
Ace laughing as Mihawk placed his hands on the grip of the sword. Since they were on a island, Mihawk swiped it as Ace giggled at the motion. The familiar line of green haki shooting from it and flying out until it hit the nearby trees. Ace letting go and clapping as he bounced on his feet. "Papa! Look!" The pup motioned, pointing at the newly destroyed trees.
"I see that." He replied.
"Oh seas." Shanks gasped from behind them.
Mihawk turned to look at his mate, a smirk on his face. "Now, Shanks, don't need to go into mom mode. I've got him."
"Mama!" Ace had immediately yelled following. Mihawk turned his head, looking at his grinning son, who in turn was looking at Shanks. "Mama! Look!"
Well, oops.
Shanks blinked at them, mouth dropping open as Ace continued to say the word, trying to get Shanks to reply. Mihawk snorted, unable to hold it in anymore before he was laughing. He definitely wasn't expecting that.
He would apologize to Shanks later.
X
Ace never did drop calling Shanks mama. Even when Mihawk tried to correct him into saying Dad, he highly preferred to call him by mama and Shanks had no issues letting Mihawk know it was his fault. Technically, it was.
It wasn't long after that when Shanks had left the Grand Line again and Mihawk had found him on Dawn Island where Rouge had moved too following Ace's birth. Choosing to move to the island instead of returning back to her position as the Second Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates. Why she made this decision, he would never know. Rouge would just tell him to follow his instincts if he ever felt them.
Mihawk had that same gut feeling he did when he found Shanks on Baterilla a little over two years before. Sure enough, arriving at Foosha, Ace was playing with Rouge, Benn, and Lucky in the fields outside of her home as Shanks was sitting on the raised stone fence watching them.
Mihawk had taken to leaning back against the stone, looking at their son. Ace was his perfect thing. The one thing in his life that completed him. Gave him another reason to get stronger and stay at the top.
"He sure is perfect, isn't he?" Shanks questioned.
"That he is." Mihawk replied, no space between Shanks' words and his own.
Shanks sighed softly, his chin resting on his palm and hat on his head shielding his eyes from the sun. Mihawk didn't miss the way that it looked like Shanks' skin was glowing, his freckles sticking out a bit more than usual. His eyes glittering despite no sun being in them. "What would you say if I told you it wasn't just going to be the three of us anymore?"
Mihawk's heart skipped a beat as Shanks smiled. "Are you saying?"
Shanks nodded. "I'm pregnant."
Mihawk hated how there was an unsettling fear that came to him. His mind flashing back to hearing Aki and Rouge talking about how Ace had been losing oxygen and was in distress. How Shanks almost bled out and would have if Aki didn't intervene. Shanks almost died giving birth to Ace, and he was pregnant again.
Still, that was another little life that was him and Shanks. An innocent life that they created. Another perfect being for Mihawk to crave protecting.
Even with his fears, it didn't stop the smile from coming to his face. Turning to face Shanks. Placing his hand on Shanks' hips as the Omega leaned down with a smile. Shanks looked beyond happy in that moment. Mihawk was happy, though he felt that fear of the possibility of almost losing Shanks again. Instead, for now, he put that fear to the side as he closed the distance between the two of them and placed a kiss against Shanks' lips.
X
Thankfully, Shanks' pregnancy was an easy one. Unlike his pregnancy with Ace, he was bursting with energy. His skin glowing completely and a larger appetite. The entire time, Shanks didn't have one complication.
Mihawk thanked the heavens that when Shanks went into labor, it was fast and easy. Just like he had done before, he had sat behind Shanks. Letting the Omega lean into him and held onto him as Shanks pushed through the contractions before finally, delivering their pup.
All fear was settled when their newborn pup was placed on Shanks' chest. A tuff of black hair that didn't show the curls that Ace had. Their newborn boy's hair was more straight looking like Mihawk's hair and what he could see of his eyes were the same stormy color.
Luffy. Gol D. Luffy was his name. It was perfect.
With everything completed in the room, the door opened with Ace running in and heading straight for the bed. Mihawk picking him up and placing him next to Shanks. Mihawk smiled as he brought his family into his arms. Holding them close.
His family was perfect. The family he vowed to protect and would continue to do so until the day he died.
His life was complete.
Author's Note: Alright! Just the laugh half of Mihawk's POV and then we will be at Marineford! I… of course went overboard again and wrote waaaay to much. I hope you enjoyed and I will see you next time!