***Warnings: Language, smut, humor

Chapter 11

Arriving back at the villa, Zoro was immediately summoned by the High Priest. Sanji couldn't go with him, so he stayed in the barracks with Luffy. Zoro didn't care much for the politics of war, but he had to give a report on the battle, and how they were victorious. With the North and South surrendering, it could mean that they are accepting defeat and will no longer attack but let either the West or East take full control. If this were to happen, then the West and East would have to battle it out for the right to the title of 'king.'

Zoro wondered how Mihawk was taking the defeat. It shouldn't really matter because mercenaries are just paid to fight for their employer. Mihawk wouldn't have surrendered, but the North army's leaders did. They would still need an official letter of surrender from the North and South. If both surrender, then Mihawk and his band of mercenaries would be out of a job unless they join with Zoro's group. While they were technically enemies, Zoro respected Mihawk as a great swordsman. Maybe he should ride out to where Mihawk is and ask if he would want to join them to take down the West, leaving the East in full control.

Zoro explained this to the High Priest who agreed with his idea to have Mihawk join after they get the surrender papers. If they don't receive the documents, then the war will continue.

After the short meeting, Zoro went to find Sanji. He checked the man's room first, only to find it empty. He checked the bathhouse, and he wasn't there either. The last place he looked was the barracks, where he found him smoking a cigarette and watching the alphas train. Zoro walked up to him and sat beside him.

"Hey," Zoro said in greeting. "You look lost in thought. Everything okay?"

Sanji let out a puff of smoke. "I'm just thinking about that battle,"

"First-time battles can be scary,"

"It's not that," Sanji said, taking another deep inhale. "Those weren't properly trained soldiers we were fighting. Some of them looked so young…I mean I know it was kill or be killed, but seeing so many young faces…it's like they sent children to fight."

Zoro nodded. "I noticed that too. That could be why they surrendered so quickly." He went on to tell Sanji about his talk with the High Priest and explain his new idea. He could tell that Sanji was still bothered by the battle. "You fought well," he said. "Better than I expected, if I'm being honest."

"I know how to fight," Sanji said. "So, you're saying there is likely to be another battle?"

"If the North and South officially surrender, then yes, we will have to go to battle with the West. This will leave the East victorious, and our High Priest will become king."

Sanji let out a short groan. "This really is a mess. All you alphas, always having something to prove."

Zoro smirked at that. "That is not untrue," he agreed.

"What about Mihawk and his band?" Sanji asked. "Will they join our side now?"

"They may or may not," Zoro said. "It depends on their leader. The West would have to pay them to help protect it. If he joins with us, the West will be conquered easily."

Sanji said nothing and continued to smoke and watch the alphas. Zoro sat in silence with him until Nami came over to them, holding a piece of paper. It was a small piece, so it came by raven.

"The North fully surrenders," she said, handing the note to Zoro. "This just came in."

Zoro read the small print. "Good. That's one down."

"Any word from the South?" Sanji asked her.

"No, not yet," Nami said. "I'm not surprised the North surrendered so quickly. Their forces were small."

"They barely had any trained soldiers," Sanji said.

"Thanks for bringing me this," Zoro said. "I'll deliver it to the High Priest."

"Hopefully, with the North and South surrendering, the West will follow, and then it will be the East reigning as king." Said Nami. "Less bloodshed."

"I don't really care who wins or if there is a king or not," Zoro said. "I live for the blade,"

"If the East High Priest becomes king, what does that make you?" Sanji asked.

"I guess I can either join as an army general instead of a mercenary. I want to stay here. I really don't have anywhere else to go."

Sanji suddenly stood up and said, "I'm going to ride to the West and talk to the High Priest there. Maybe I can get them to surrender before they send out more soldiers to fight. The West is my home, after all."

"I don't think that's a good idea," Zoro said. "You were hired to steal my battle plans, but you changed your mind. Your High Priest might not like that. You technically disobeyed your orders."

Sanji shrugged his shoulders. "I'm not afraid," he said. "I think we can stop this war," he looked to Zoro. "And I think we should have Mihawk join with us if the West refuses to surrender."

"He might not join at all," Zoro said. "We can't rely on him."

"Then how about you go to Mihawk, and I'll go to my High Priest?" Sanji offered the idea.

"...Mihawk is my mentor as well as my enemy," Zoro said.

"Then let's travel together," Sanji said. "It's worth a try."

Zoro thought about it, then gave a nod. "Alright. We'll head out tomorrow."

"But you just got back," Nami said. "You should rest a while."

"It shouldn't take us too long to travel," said Zoro. "We'll be fine."

The next day, they prepared their camels and left the villa, heading for the West first. They rode side-by-side, talking about this and that and bickering a few times. They took a short rest and made it to the West Oasis by nightfall. They had money for an inn, so they rented a room for the night, as the High Priest doesn't hold court in the evenings. They enjoyed some ale and a warm meal, though Sanji didn't care for the flavor of the soup, but he ate it anyway. He never wasted food.

Their bed was too small for two people, but that didn't stop them. Sanji slept on top of Zoro, and Zoro didn't mind. The following morning, they had a quick breakfast and took off again, this time heading to the villa.

The villa was heavily guarded, but they were allowed in and had to wait in line. But the High Priest saw them and called the pair to the front. Sanji whispered to Zoro to let him do the talking.

"Thank you for seeing us," Sanji said.

"What is it that you need?" Asked the High Priest.

"It's about the civil war," Sanji said. "The North has completely surrendered, and we know the South is not too far off. We want to avoid more bloodshed,"

"Hmm…I see…" said the old man. "The North surrendering doesn't surprise me. It's likely the South will surrender, too. That just leaves the West and the East," he looked at Zoro. "And you, Rorona Zoro, are the leader of the mercenaries. Are you going to join up with Mihawk and his band?"

Zoro placed his hand on top of his sword. "If the South doesn't surrender, then it will be three villas against one," he started. "All three would attack you. But if you surrender now, there will be no more bloodshed, and the East will rule supreme. You don't have the forces to fight off three provinces."

The old man glared at them, clearly offended. "I will not surrender without a fight!" he said.

"Then you will be met with greater forces and lose," Zoro said.

"I will not hear anymore of this! Be gone with you both!"

Zoro and Sanji turned away to leave. "That went as expected," said Zoro.

"Maybe he'll think it over," Sanji said. "He seemed to forget who I am and what he tasked me with," he added. "I guess our next stop is the North, where Mihawks is,"

"Aren't you concerned for your home?" Zoro asked him.

Sanji smiled and said, "We bonded, remember? My place is with you." He took Zoro's hand and said, "There's really nothing there for me anyway."

Zoro squeezed his hand gently, and Sanji squeezed back.

Their last stop was Mihawk, but the North was another day away, so they had to set up camp before it got dark. They found a small oasis to rest at. Zoro gathered wood while Sanji prepared their bed rolls. Once the fire was going, they sat and had dried meat and cheese.

"We should combine our bedrolls," Sanji said, shivering a little. "It's a bit chilly tonight."

"I think we should turn in early so we can get an earlier start tomorrow."

"Agreed." Sanji slid his bedroll beside Zoro's and got inside. He patted the other bedroll, waiting for Zoro to join him.

Zoro placed his swords beside the bedroll and joined Sanji. The omega immediately snuggled against him, and his alpha side beamed with pride. He could never get enough of Sanji's smell. Sanji slowly stroked Zoro's chest, nuzzling his nose behind the alpha's ear. The earrings tickled a bit.

"You're not going into heat, right?" Zoro asked.

"No. I've been taking my suppressants," he answered. "I'm just nuzzling you."

"You went from hating my guts to nuzzling me,"

"Yeah, well, things change." He yawned. "Go to sleep." He kept his hand on Zoro's chest, right above the man's heart. Zoro was already asleep and snoring softly. "He falls asleep too easily!" Soon, Sanji was asleep as well.

They awoke early in the morning and packed their things. The journey to the North was another day's ride, so they camped again and then continued on their way. The North Oasis finally came into view. There were barely any guards, so they rode right in. Their task was to find Mihawk, and he would likely be at the villa. But when they asked, they were told that Mihawk was at the barracks, which wasn't attached to the villa. They handed off their camels to a stable and entered the training ground full of alphas. The alphas noticed Sanji right away, and Sanji made sure to glare at them.

"Where's your leader?" Zoro commanded.

"I'm here," Mihawk said, approaching them. "Hello, Zoro. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"I've decided we should team up," Zoro said. "The North has already surrendered, and the South is likely next. We went to the West, and they still want to fight." Then, Sanji jumped in.

"We can avoid bloodshed if all three provinces team up to fight the West. The West would likely surrender since we'll have the numbers. They won't be able to fight all of us off."

Mihawk stroked his chin. "Well, I was planning on leaving the North. They lost, and they can't pay me anymore."

"Our High Priest will pay you," Zoro added.

"If that is so, then I'll join you," Mihawk said. "And the South has already surrendered. We heard about it this morning."

"So, that's it, then," Zoro said. "We'll let the West High Priest know of our joining, and if we can get the North and South to fight, we can overwhelm the West with numbers."

Mihawk smirked. "I like that plan. I will personally send the terms to the West. You're free to stay here and rest in the barracks." he offered. "And, if you'd like, you and I can do some sparring," He said to Zoro. "It's been years."

"I accept," Zoro replied, eager to spar with the strongest swordsman he knew. Soon, after he defeats Mihawks in a real duel, that will be his title.

Mihawk excused himself from the pair, and Sanji turned to Zoro once the other alpha was out of sight.

"That was easy," Sanji said.

"Yes, and I think it's safe to say we won't see any more bloodshed, and the civil war stops here. The West is going to surrender. They have no choice. Are you sure you're alright with that?" he asked Sanji.

"Like I said, my place is with you, so I guess that means I'll be living in the East for as long as we stay there."

Sanji suddenly felt like he was being watched, and he was. Some of the sparring alphas stopped to gaze upon him. He gave them the middle finger, but it didn't stop them from looking. Then, a foolish alpha started to show off for him. Sanji lit another cigarette and watched in amusement as the alphas tried to impress him. Zoro finally took notice and growled.

"He's my omega!" Zoro shouted at the sparring alphas.

Sanji laughed and said, "How come you never show off to try and impress me?"

Zoro rolled his eyes. "Why would I want to do that?"

"Some courting would be nice," Sanji offered.

"But we're already bonded," Zoro said. "Why would we need to court?"

Sanji shrugged his shoulders. "It would just be something nice."

"Hey, omega! Take a look at this!" One of the alphas picked up an unexpecting alpha over his head and slammed him onto the ground, then flexed his muscles.

Sanji just lit a cigarette, unimpressed.

"Oh yeah? Watch this!" Another alpha flexed and punched the nearest alpha, sending them flying.

Sanji looked at them and gave a yawn, still unimpressed.

Zoro thought it was more embarrassing than insulting. These alphas were showing off like primitive beasts. Did Sanji really want him to do something trivial like this? The other alphas were trying to impress Sanji, and he showed no interest, though he was watching them (probably in amusement). Then, Sanji turned towards him and planted a kiss on his lips. Sanji kissed him again, only it was deeper this time. When he pulled away, Zoro looked at the other alphas, who were just staring.

"Sorry, I'm taken," Sanji told them, blowing out a stream of smoke.

Zoro then stood up with his hand on his swords and moved in front of Sanji so the other alphas knew who he belonged to. The alphas seemed to have lost interest and went back to their training.

"Was that courting enough for you?" Zoro asked Sanji.

"Close enough," Sanji said.

Zoro leaned in closer and said, "I really don't like other alphas looking at you. I know you can defend yourself, but I still hate it."

Sanji put out his cigarette and said, "You never have to worry about me running off with a different alpha," He was going in for a kiss when Mihawk appeared.

"I take it this is your omega?" Mihawk motioned to Sanji.

"Yes," Zoro replied.

"It's Sanji, not omega," Sanji said.

"Apologies," Mihawk said. "I'm looking forward to our spar. I want to see what else you have learned and how far you have come."

"I still plan to become the best swordsman in the world," Zoro said. "Let's go!" He was eager to spar with Mihawk and had confidence that he would beat him this time. He removed his shirt and handed it to Sanji.

The other alphas moved out of the way to make room for Zoro and Mihawk. Sanji lit another cigarette and stood on the sidelines, choosing to count this as a form of courting. Zoro will show off his skill and strength. Zoro took out all three of his swords, and Mihawk had only one large one. The spar began with Zoro making the first move. No matter how many times Zoro brought his blades down, Mihawk blocked them. To Sanji, it looked like Zoro couldn't get a hit in. Zoro tried some other moves, nearly striking Mihawk a few times. But Mihawk proved to be the stronger swordsman and knocked away two of Zoro's swords. He still had the third between his teeth. Zoro took it and tried to land a few more hits, but they were blocked. Mihawk found an opening and thrust his blade forward, cutting Zoro's shoulder. Zoro swung back and was only an inch away from his blade reaching Mihawk's face. Then, with a few more swings and cuts, followed by a kick, Zoro was defeated. Mihawk pointed his sword at Zoro's neck.

"You've gotten stronger," Mihawk said. "But you still have plenty to learn,"

Zoro grits his teeth, embarrassed that he has failed, and in front of these alphas and Sanji, no less. Zoro could see the alphas looking at Sanji and heard their laughter. They were mocking Sanji for having a 'weak' mate, no doubt. Mihawk moved his sword and stuck his hand out for Zoro. Zoro took it, and Mihawk pulled him to his feet.

Zoro thanked Mihawk and returned to Sanji's side, sheathing his swords. "I will beat him one day,"

"You did good," Sanji told him.

"You're not…embarrassed by me in front of these other alphas?"

Sanji crossed his arms. "Seriously? You really think I care what a bunch of alphas think?"

"Well, you wanted me to court you,"

"You don't have to actually court me," Sanji said. "I was teasing you, mosshead."

Mihawk came over to them and said that he had spoken with the High Priest and that they could stay for the evening. The pair was grateful not to have to sleep on the ground. They followed Mihawk back into the villa, where a servant took over and led them to their room. The servant also said that food would be brought to them soon.

The room was small, with a double bed, a table with two chairs, and an animal hide rug. The bed had some furs on it as well as a blanket. At least they would be warm. Zoro reclined on the bed, closing his eyes to take a quick snooze. Sanji joined him, though he didn't fall asleep. Sanji was lost in thought thinking about the civil war that they could ultimately avoid. So long as the West surrenders, there shouldn't be a civil war, and the High Priest of the East will be declared 'king.'

The food came, and the noise from the door woke up Zoro. Sanji was already off the bed and thanked the servant, looking at the food. There was some sliced chicken, vegetables, and potatoes, two cups, a wine bottle, and two slices of apple pie. The food smelled good.

"This is a nice meal," Zoro said, looking at the plates of food.

"It smells good. I haven't had apple pie in a long time."

They sat down to eat their dinner, cleaning the plates. They took the plate of apple pies to bed with them right after they changed for the night. Sanji was in the mood for some fun, so he put some pie on the fork and held it to Zoro's mouth. Zoro took the sweet bite and then did the same for Sanji. When it was Sanji's turn, he accidentally dropped a wad of apple pie on Zoro's bare chest. Zoro went to wipe it away, but Sanji stopped him. He smirked at Zoro and brought his mouth down to his chest, licking at the sweet pie filling. Sanji licked him clean, then licked his lips.

"Do you want another piece?" Sanji asked him with a soft purr.

"Only if I can eat it off of you," Zoro smirked.

Sanji let a piece of the pie fall onto his chest and let Zoro lick it off. Sometimes, Zoro's tongue tickled. "We can't keep doing this, though. We're going to get too sticky!"

"You started it," Zoro said.

"That first time was an accident,"

"I think we're done with the apple pie," Zoro said, taking Sanji's plate and placing both on the end table.

***Edited for site. Read full scene on AO3***

"I think…we might have…disturbed the whole villa…" Sanji panted out.

"Too bad," Zoro replied. "I should have taken you…right in front of all those alphas,"

"That would…really be laying claim to me,"

Zoro pulled out and lay next to Sanji, throwing an arm over his eyes. "Well…we're bonded so…" he trailed off.

Sanji rolled into Zoro and nuzzled his chest with his cheek. "Hey, did you ever think you and I would end up like this considering our history?"

"That we hated each other but now we're bonded?"

"We're an established, bonded pair." He kissed Zoro's cheek. "I'm still better than you, though."

"Really?" Zoro snorted and wrapped his arm around Sanji's waist. "I beg to differ."

"I can still beat your ass in a fight," Sanji said.

"I'll take you up on that challenge,"

"And when do I get to be the top?" Sanji asked.

"When you defeat me in a fight," Zoro answered. That was the same rule Sanji had used for himself.

"You're on!"

Even though they were going to challenge one another, they still slept locked in each other's arms.

The next morning, Zoro and Sanji were getting ready to leave. Their camels were prepared and ready for travel. But just as they were getting onto their camels, Mihawk approached them with a small piece of paper.

"Before you depart, I have some interesting news," he said, holding up the small piece of paper. "The West has decided to surrender."

Zoro and Sanji looked at each other, then back at Mihawk.

"Are you sure?" Sanji asked.

"It's the High Priests' signature," Mihawk said. "It looks like the war is over, and the East will now reign supreme."

"We did it, Zoro," Sanji said in awe. "We helped stop the civil war!"

Zoro nodded. "We need to head back to the East," he looked at Mihawk and said, "I'm sure I'll be seeing you soon,"

"You might," Mihawk said. "Have a safe journey back."

Zoro and Sanji traveled back to the East Oasis as fast as they could. By the time they arrived, word had already reached the High Priest. There was cheering in the streets as they made their way back to the villa.

After handing off the camels, they walked into the villa together and made their way to the High Priest. When they entered the grand room, the High Priest was already holding court with a bunch of nobles. The High Priest saw them enter and immediately beckoned them over. They approached the dais together and bowed their heads to the new king.

"Roronoa Zoro, you have proven yourself to be a strong and capable soldier. Thanks to you and your band of mercenaries, this all has been possible. So, I humbly grant you the title of High General, commanding over your fighters, my fighters, and any others that may join us."

Zoro was surprised to be given such a high honor, but Sanji had also helped a lot. Zoro knew what to do. He took Sanji's hand and said, "I won't accept your offer unless you grant my mate Sanji a title and position as well."

Sanji smiled at Zoro, then looked back to the High Priest. The High Priest was thinking about it, then said. "Very well. He can be Captain of the Guard here at the villa. That's a high honor and a good title for an omega to have,"

"Thank you, sir." Said Sanji, squeezing Zoro's hand.

"This province is grateful for your help," said the High Priest. "You are dismissed."

Sanji and Zoro left the room, and when they were alone, they started to laugh. Neither of them had ever thought they would hold such high honors. Zoro's position was still a step higher than Sanji's, but there were barely any omegas in seats or jobs of power.

"Let's go to the barracks and tell the fighters the good news," said Zoro. "We need to tell Luffy and the others."

Sanji nodded. "You go let Luffy know, and I'll track down the others!"

Zoro went to the barracks and sought out Luffy. He found the alpha doing some stretches. Luffy stopped when he saw Zoro.

"Hey! Did you hear the news? We won the war!" Luffy said to Zoro.

"Yeah, I heard. I came to tell you that the High Priest, now the King, named me High General of the army. That means you and the other mercenaries are now royal soldiers."

"Wow! That's a great title you got!" Luffy said. "But what about me? I want a title, too!" He whined.

Zoro chuckled and said, "You are still my second in command. You can be the leader of our men. I have to start focusing on the royal army. It's only going to get bigger as the provinces come together."

"Alright! That's great! Thanks a bunch, Zoro!"

"Hey, you guys!"

Zoro and Luffy looked over to see Sanji coming with Nami, Chopper, and Usopp.

"Sanji just told us the good news!" Usopp said.

"You helped avoid a war," said Chopper. "I'm so glad! I don't want to treat wounds from war. War is so senseless!"

"And we heard you'll be staying here," Nami said.

Zoro nodded. "Both Sanji and I will be staying here. Things are going to change in this realm."

"There's still one little thing we need to do first," said Sanji, looking at Zoro. "You and I still need to duel it out," he lit up a cigarette.

Zoro raised a brow, then smirked when he realized what Sanji was saying. "Being Captain of the Guard already went to your head?"

Sanji walked up to Zoro, standing to face him. "I won't hold back,"

"Neither will I,"

Then, the two began their wrestling match, pushing and shoving each other just like they've always done. There was no winner, only another stalemate that left both men panting and exhausted.

"This is never going to end between us, is it?" Sanji said.

"Doubt it."

"But I wouldn't have it any other way," Sanji smirked and stood up, holding out his hand to help Zoro to his feet. "I will win one day,"

"No, I'll be the one to win," Zoro smirked.

"Then let's go one more time!"

"Bring it, shitty cook."

"I'll make you eat those words, mosshead!"

The End