In the heart of Amazon Lily's lush jungles, laughter and chatter filled the air as a group of young Kuja girls engaged in their daily play. Among them, Lucy, with her bright eyes and boundless energy, led the group in their adventures. On this particular day, their exploration took them to a less frequented part of the island, where the dense foliage whispered secrets of untamed wild animals.
As they played, a rustling in the bushes caught their attention. The girls paused, their games momentarily forgotten, as they watched a small, curious creature emerge.
It was a puppy, unlike any they had seen before, with patches of fur missing, a limp in its step, and a pitiful whimper. Its big, sorrowful eyes looked up at the girls filled with a silent plea for kindness.
"Look, she's hurt!" Lucy exclaimed, her heart immediately going out to the puppy. Her friends gathered around, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern.
"It doesn't look like any of the dogs we have on the island," one older girl remarked, her nose wrinkled in uncertainty.
"I don't think we should touch her. What if she's sick?" Another girl remarked, "Your mommy, I mean the Empress will be mad if she sees you with this thing."
Lucy looked down at the puppy, her resolve firm. "But look at her, she's adorable!" She insisted, her gaze filled with a warmth and openness that mirrored her father's own way of seeing the world.
The puppy, though initially hesitant, seemed to understand that Lucy meant no harm. It snuggled closer to warmth, its tail wagging weakly.
"We should take her to Grandma," Lucy decided with a nod. "She'll know what to do."
As Lucy and her friends made their way back to the palace, the group was a flutter with chatter and concern.
One of the girls tried again to reason with Lucy. "But what if that puppy bites you? You could get sick! What will your Mommy say?"
Lucy, cradling the puppy more protectively, responded with a mix of naivety and royal authority. "I'm the princess, so it's okay."
Another girl, skepticism clear in her tone, retorted, "You always say 'I'm the princess' like it means you can do anything."
Lucy paused, considering her friend's words, but her determination didn't waver. "Well, it's true! And right now, I'm going to make sure this puppy gets help because that's what my Daddy would do! He would have Doctor Chopper help."
The girls exchanged looks, some rolling their eyes but all following Lucy's lead. Despite their reservations, they couldn't deny the infectious optimism that Lucy, much like her father, radiated—even when it came to rescuing a scruffy, potentially troublesome puppy.
Bursting into the palace, Lucy led her entourage with the puppy still nestled in her arms. They found Elder Nyon in one of the main rooms reading.
"Grandma!" Lucy called out, excitement evident in her voice as she approached Nyon. "Look what I found! She needs our help."
Nyon looked up, her expression shifting from surprise to concern as she noticed the puppy. "Oh, my dear Lucy, what you have got this time?" She asked, her tone gentle but wary.
Before Lucy could answer, one of her friends piped up, "Is the Empress back yet? Could we see her?"
Lucy shook her head. "No, Mommy will be back in a few days. That's what Grandma said! I can't wait to show her the puppy. She's going to love her, I know it!
As Lucy's words filled the room with her optimism about the puppy's acceptance, Elder Nyon interjected, a knowing look in her eyes. "Lucy, you remember what your mother said last time you brought home an animal, don't you? She made an exception for Zephyra, but…"
Lucy's excitement waned slightly, her brows furrowing. Without missing a beat, she straightened up, attempting to mimic her mother's stance, one where she seemed to look so far down on someone she was practically looking up. Pointing a small finger towards Nyon with all the seriousness a 4-year-old could muster, she declared, "I can do what I want because I'm a beautiful princess!"
The room let out a collective sigh, including Nyon. "Hancock, I fear you've taught your dear child some bad habits," She thought to herself, however, she couldn't help but smile. Lucy's attempt at authority was eerily reminiscent of Hancock's own demeanor before meeting Luffy.
"You are quite the beautiful princess," Nyon agreed, her tone soft and filled with amusement. "But being a princess also means understanding responsibilities, especially towards those we care for."
Lucy's posture softened, her pout evident. "But she's so cute and she needs us. I know Daddy would say yes!"
Elder Nyon chuckled softly at Lucy's reasoning, the amusement evident in her eyes. "Your father might indeed have a hard time saying no to you, but remember, caring for a living being is a big responsibility, Lucy."
Lucy's face lit up with an idea as a new wave of determination washed over her. "Can we call Daddy? He'll say I can keep her, and then when Mommy is here, she can't say no because Daddy said so!"
The group of girls around her murmured in agreement, excited by the idea of contacting the Pirate King himself for such a crucial decision.
Nyon hesitated for a moment, considering the implications. The idea of consulting Luffy on such matters was unconventional, to say the least. Yet, seeing Lucy's hopeful gaze, she found it hard to outright refuse. "Alright, my dear. We can try calling your father. However," she added with a stern look that promised no guarantees, "You must also agree to respect your mother's decision, regardless of what your father says. Can you do that?"
Lucy nodded eagerly, the promise slipping out easily. "Yes, I promise!"
Soon after, Nyon led Lucy and her small group of friends to where the transponder snail waited. As they called the Thousand Sunny, Lucy's heart raced with anticipation. After a few moments Luffy's voice came through although his mouth sounded like it was full of food, as usual. "DADDY!" Lucy shouted into the phone startling her father on the other end.
"Luce? What's up? Is everything okay?" Luffy's voice crackled through the line, his tone instantly alert at his daughter's shout.
Lucy beamed, clutching the receiver. "Hi, Daddy! I found a puppy, and she's really cute but hurt. I want to keep her. Can I please keep her?" Her voice was a blend of excitement and a plea, hoping her father's well-known soft heart for her would work in her favor.
There was a pause, and then Luffy's laugh echoed through the receiver. "A puppy, huh? Well, I don't see why not. You can keep the puppy."
As Lucy's excitement bubbled over, another voice suddenly chimed in, calm and measured. "Luffy, have you spoken with Hancock about this?" Robin's voice was a reminder of the practical considerations at play. "Lucy, sweetheart, have you asked your mother?"
Lucy's face fell slightly, the mention of her mother's approval dampening her spirits momentarily. "…No, Aunt Robin," she protested softly, a hint of disappointment threading through her voice. "But Daddy just said yes…"
The murmurs among Lucy's friends grew, a mix of whispers barely audible. "She always gets her way," one girl mumbled under her breath, not quite envious, not quite resigned. Another added, "But even princesses have to listen to their mommies, don't they?"
Luffy's voice, still warm but now carrying an edge of seriousness, returned. "Robin has a point, Luce. We should talk to Hancock about it first. But don't worry, I'll help you, okay? Just call me when your mom gets back."
With that, Lucy felt a renewed sense of hope. Maybe, with her father's backing and careful explanation of her intentions, her mother would see the puppy through Lucy's eyes. The thought brought a small smile back to her face as she turned to share her plan with her friends, ready to take on the challenge of convincing the Empress.
~~~
A few days had passed, and under the attentive care of Nyon, Sonia, and Mari, Patches, the puppy Lucy had named for her distinct, patchy fur, had begun to show signs of recovery. The once timid and frail creature now wagged her tail with a vigor that spoke volumes of her gratitude and growing playful spirit.
As night descended upon Amazon Lily, casting a serene glow over the palace, Lucy prepared for bed, her heart set on a request she hoped her guardians wouldn't deny. Surrounded by the comforting presence of Nyon, Sonia, and Mari, Lucy voiced her wish, her eyes gleaming with hope. "Can Patches and Zephyra stay in my room tonight? Please?"
The trio exchanged hesitant looks, well aware of the complications that might arise from having both the snake and the puppy in close quarters, especially during the night. However, Lucy's expression, a masterful blend of hope and the slightest hint of a pout, reminiscent of the look her father could never resist, made them reconsider.
Nyon, with a sigh, glanced at Sonia and Mari, who both nodded, albeit reluctantly. "Alright, but only for tonight," Nyon conceded, her tone leaving no room for negotiation, though the softness in her eyes showed her fondness for the young princess.
Lucy's face lit up, a bright smile spreading across her features. "Thank you, Grandma! Thank you, Aunt Sonia, Aunt Mari!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together in joy as Zephyra slithered comfortably onto her designated spot, and Patches, with a little help, climbed onto the bed, settling beside Lucy.
As they tucked Lucy in, surrounded by her beloved companions, the room filled with a sense of peace and contentment. "Remember, Lucy, they're your responsibility," Mari gently reminded, her words carrying a hint of wisdom and care.
Lucy nodded solemnly, understanding the weight of her promise. "I will, Aunt Mari. I'll take good care of them," she affirmed, her voice carrying the sincerity of her commitment.
With one final check to ensure Lucy and her unconventional bedmates were settled for the night, Nyon, Sonia, and Mari stepped out of the room, leaving the door ajar just enough to keep an eye on the young princess. As they retreated, they shared a smile, a silent acknowledgment of the joy and chaos that Patches and Zephyra had brought into their lives, and most importantly, into Lucy's heart.
As night deepened around Amazon Lily, the Perfume Yuda was making it's return. The island, bathed in moonlight, welcomed Boa Hancock. Mari and Sonia awaited her, their usual smiles in place at the site of their older sister.
"Have there been any issues in my absence?" Hancock's voice, though gentle, carried the weight of her responsibility as both a leader and protector.
Sonia quickly assured her, "The island has been peaceful, sister."
Hancock's next question came with a hint of urgency, a mother's concern threading through her composed demeanor. "And Lucy?"
Mari's smile was warm as she responded, "Lucy has been well, full of energy and curiosity as always. She's asleep now, she's had a very eventful last few days."
The mention of Lucy's adventures caught Hancock's interest, but she held back her curiosity for a moment, focusing instead on the wellbeing of her island. "Good. And the preparations for our next voyage? I would like to take Lucy on this one as it's not a long trip."
"Yes, everything is on schedule," Sonia replied. "The island has been looking forward to your return."
Satisfied with the reports of stability and progress, Hancock allowed herself a small sigh of relief. Yet, the mother in her lingered on thoughts of Lucy, her imagination painting pictures of what 'adventures' her daughter might have embarked on. "Did Lucy obey you both? And… she hasn't brought home any more… hideous creatures has she?" Hancock asked, half-joking, recalling past instances of Lucy's boundless compassion leading to impromptu animal rescues.
Both sisters exchanged a glance, a silent agreement passing between them to leave the story of Patches for a more opportune moment. "Lucy has been the perfect princess," Mari assured, her tone leaving no room for doubt. "Elder Nyon has been keeping a close watch, ensuring her safety and adherence to the rules."
Hancock nodded, the corners of her mouth turning up in a soft smile at the mention of her daughter's well-being. "I look forward to spending the day with her tomorrow. For now, I will retire for the evening. It's been a long journey."
As they walked back to the palace, Hancock's heart, though weary from travel, felt lighter with each step towards the heart of Amazon Lily, towards home, and most importantly, towards Lucy. The Empress of Amazon Lily was back—not just as a ruler but as a mother eager to embrace her daughter.
~~~
The soft hues of dawn had barely begun to seep through the elegant curtains of Hancock's chamber when whispers of her return danced through the corridors of the palace. Lucy, awake and ready to play, had intended to sneak an early morning snack for herself and her beloved companions, Patches and Zephyra. However, the hushed voices of the Kuja warriors redirected her morning adventure directly to her mother's room.
With Patches trotting loyally beside her and Zephyra coiled around her, Lucy tiptoed towards the grand doors of Hancock's room. Salome, ever watchful and surprisingly indulgent of Lucy's whims, noticed the trio's approach. With a gentle nudge of her tail, she helped Lucy and then Patches onto the bed, a silent conspirator in the child's plan to surprise her mother.
As Patches excitedly scampered across the bed, unable to contain her joy at discovering this new, intriguing landscape, she found her way to Hancock's face, greeting her with enthusiastic licks. "No, Patches! You can't do that!" Lucy whispered urgently, her voice a mix of amusement and concern for interrupting her mother's rest.
Hancock stirred, her eyes fluttering open to a sight she hadn't anticipated—a puppy enthusiastically covering her face in kisses, and her daughter, with a mix of apprehension and excitement, trying to manage the lively scene. The Empress's initial reaction was one of surprise, morphing quickly into a frown of disapproval at the unexpected wake-up call.
Lucy's joy faltered under her mother's gaze, a shadow of fear crossing her features at the prospect of her mother's anger towards Patches. "I'm sorry, Mommy, I didn't know she would do that!" She said quickly trying to change her mother's attitude.
Sensing her daughter's distress, Hancock's gaze softened. She reached out, drawing Lucy into her lap with a tenderness that belied her stern reputation. "Mari! Sonia!" she called out, her voice carrying the command of the Empress as she looked down at Patches, "Dispose of this wretched animal at once."
Before Hancock could shoo the puppy off the bed, Lucy's reaction was immediate; she wrapped her small arms protectively around Patches, a silent plea in her eyes that said more than words ever could.
Hancock hesitated at the determination in Lucy's grip on Patches, the way her daughter looked at her with a mix of hope and defiance, mirrored so much of what she loved in Luffy.
The doors opened softly, revealing Mari and Sonia, who paused at the sight before them. It wasn't often they saw their sister in such a domestic scene, nor did they expect to be greeted by the puppy in their sister's bed.
Hancock's expression was stern as she regarded her sisters, the presence of the puppy still a point of contention. "Mari, Sonia, remove this animal," she instructed once more, her tone leaving no room for negotiation. But Lucy, determination in her young eyes, slid off her mother's lap, clutching Patches closely to her chest. "But Daddy said I could keep Patches!" she exclaimed, the defiance in her voice gave Hancock pause.
Hancock's eyebrow arched, a silent question directed at her sisters. "Is this true?" she asked, her gaze sharp. Before Mari or Sonia could respond, Lucy added, "And Grandma said so, too!"
Hancock murmured under her breath, "The old hag," as she started to rise, intent on confronting Elder Nyon about this unexpected development, but her movement was halted by Mari and Sonia's assurances. "Sister, Elder Nyon mentioned that Lucy must follow whatever decision you make. If you decide the puppy cannot stay, then Lucy has agreed to obey," Sonia explained, hoping to ease the tension in the room.
Lucy's reaction was immediate; she darted off the bed with Salome's gentle assistance and wrapped her small arms around her mother's legs, a physical plea. "If Patches can't stay, then I want to go live wherever Patches lives," she said, her voice quivering with the threat of tears.
Hancock, still weary from her journey, pinched the bridge of her nose in exasperation. She sighed deeply, a sign that Lucy recognized all too well. Looking up, Lucy saw the fatigue etched on her mother's face and knew her resolve was weakening.
"Can someone bring me the mini transponder snail?" Hancock finally said, her request surprising the room. "I need to speak with Luffy about this."
As Sonia hurried off to fetch the requested transponder snail, Lucy released her grip on her mother's legs but remained close, her eyes wide with a mix of hope and apprehension.
Moments later, the mini transponder snail was brought into the room, and Hancock reached out to Luffy. The waiting was tense, with every ring of the transponder snail stretching longer than the last. Finally, Luffy's cheerful voice filled the room thinking Lucy was calling him again. "Hey, Luce! What's up? How's the puppy? Have you told your mom yet?"
Hancock took a deep breath, trying to keep her composure. "Darling, so you did give Lucy permission to keep a… puppy?" she asked, each word measured.
Luffy's laughter boomed through the transponder. "Oh, hey, Hancock! Yeah, I did! Lucy sounded so happy about it. Why? Is there a problem?"
Hancock's voice held a touch of exasperation as she responded, "I've told Lucy before that after Zephyra, she cannot keep any more animals. You and I later agreed she was responsible enough for her snake, and that was it."
There was a brief pause on the other end before Luffy's voice came through, slightly more subdued. "Ohhh yeah. Well, I did kinda tell her that we could talk about it when you got back."
Hancock continued, "She found this… thing, and now she's insisting on keeping it because you said yes without talking to me." Her gaze shifted as she looked down at Lucy, whose pout deepened at the recounting of her plea to keep Patches.
Luffy's voice now held a touch of concern, "I just wanted her to be happy, but you're right, Hancock. We should have talked about it first. I'm sorry. Do you think we could make this a special case though? You know, cause it's my fault for getting her hopes up?"
Lucy perked up at her father's suggestion, her eyes glimmering with a mixture of hope and mischief, clearly not ready to give up on her new friend just yet.
Hancock sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose again as she deliberated. "Fine. That animal can stay, but this is an exception, not a precedent," she stated firmly, ensuring her stance was clear to not just Lucy but to Luffy as well.
"Understood. Can I talk to Lucy?" Luffy's voice took on a firmer tone as Hancock held the transponder snail out for Lucy. "You need to listen to your mom, okay? If she makes any decisions about your dog, then you need to do what she says."
Lucy, sensing the compromise, unfolded her arms and nodded, her earlier pout replaced by a wide, grateful smile. "Okay, Daddy! I promise I'll take good care of Patches! And I'll listen to Mommy!"
Hancock, despite the early morning disruption, couldn't help but smile at her daughter's enthusiasm and Luffy's attempt to make amends. "Thank you, Darling. We love you," she said softly, acknowledging the compromise they'd reached as a family.
"I love you guys too! Let me know if you need any help with Patches, Luce," Luffy added cheerfully before ending the call, leaving Hancock and Lucy in silence.
"Mari, Sonia, can you please leave Lucy and I alone for a moment?" Hancock said as she kept her focus on her daughter who is once again clutching her puppy.
Mari and Sonia exchanged glances, a mixture of amusement and relief in their eyes, before nodding and exiting the room, leaving Hancock and Lucy to their private conversation.
Hancock walked back to her bed and sat down, her expression softening as she pulled Lucy onto her lap. Before she could broach the topic of responsibility and caring for Patches, Lucy wrapped her tiny arms around her mother's neck and hugged her tightly.
"I missed you, Mommy," Lucy whispered, her voice muffled against Hancock's neck. "And thank you for letting me keep Patches."
Hancock, taken aback by the sudden show of affection, allowed herself a moment to just hold her daughter close. The weeks of separation from Lucy weighed heavily on her heart, and this moment of reunion melted away the Empress's usual stoic demeanor. "I missed you too, my love" Hancock murmured, pressing a kiss to Lucy's head.
After a few moments Hancock gently pulled back to look Lucy in the eyes. "Lucy, I'm glad you're happy, but keeping Patches means you'll have to take care of her properly," Hancock began, her tone serious.
Lucy nodded eagerly, her attention fully on her mother, "I'll do everything, Mommy!"
Hancock continued, laying out the terms clearly, "You need to play with Patches, feed her yourself without asking the other Kuja or your friends for help, and make sure she gets plenty of exercise. This has to be consistent, Lucy. If you miss doing any of these things even once, then we will have to find another home for Patches."
Lucy's eyes widened at the conditions, but the determination in her heart was undeterred. "I promise, Mommy! I'll take the best care of Patches. You'll see!"
Hancock studied her daughter's face, the earnestness in her eyes. She knew Lucy had inherited her father's boundless enthusiasm and her own fierce determination. "Alright, Lucy. I trust you to keep your promise," Hancock said.
Lucy, satisfied with the agreement, hugged her mother once more before hopping off her lap, Patches now following closely behind. "Come on, Patches! Let's go show you your new home," Lucy chirped, her spirits lifted and her heart full.
As Lucy bounded out of the room, Hancock watched her go, a smile creeping onto her lips. The formidable Pirate Empress felt a warmth in her heart, a reminder of the love that tied their family together.
~~~
Over the next few days, the palace of Amazon Lily buzzed with a new kind of energy, all thanks to a small puppy named Patches and the little princess who adored her. Elder Nyon, Mari, and Sonia found amusement in the subtle changes within their Empress, particularly her relationship with the newest, furriest member of the household.
While Hancock maintained a certain level of disdain for the disorder Patches brought into their palace, her icy demeanor would thaw in an instant whenever Lucy was around, her joy infectious. The others couldn't help but chuckle at the sight, whispering jokes about how the formidable Empress of Amazon Lily could be so easily swayed by her daughter's happiness.
One particularly cute incident unfolded when Hancock was preparing for her bath, a time she cherished for its tranquility and solitude. As she stepped into the bath, ready to immerse herself in the warm, fragrant water, Lucy appeared at the door, Patches in her arms, wearing a hopeful grin.
"Mommy, can Patches have a bath too? She's dirty," Lucy announced, her big eyes gleaming with excitement at the thought of sharing this moment with her puppy.
Hancock, caught off guard by the request, hesitated. Her first instinct was to refuse, to preserve the sanctity of her relaxation time. However, looking down at Lucy's eager face—and the puppy that seemed just as enthusiastic—her resolve wavered.
"Alright," Hancock sighed, her expression softening. "But she gets her own bath. I don't want her in here with us when we're done cleaning her, understood?"
Lucy's excitement bubbled over as she nodded vigorously, promising to be the best bath assistant. As they carefully washed Patches in a smaller bath, splashing gently and laughing at the puppy's playful attempts to catch the water, Hancock found herself enjoying the moment more than she'd expected.
Mari and Sonia, standing guard at the door, peeked in to witness the heartwarming scene. They exchanged knowing looks, their amusement clear. Later, they would recount the tale to Elder Nyon, who laughed heartily, remarking, "Who would have thought? Our fierce Empress, softened by a child and her puppy."
~~~
After weeks of adjusting to life with Patches, Hancock found herself unexpectedly fond of the puppy's presence; the once-disdained creature had wormed its way into her heart.
It was a quiet evening, the palace bathed in the soft glow of twilight. Hancock sat in her favorite garden enjoying the rare silence that enveloped Amazon Lily.
Lucy, with Patches trailing behind her, found her mother in the garden. "Mommy, look! Patches learned a new trick!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with excitement. Hancock looked to her daughter, her interest piqued, a smile tugging at her lips.
With a command from Lucy, Patches clumsily attempted to roll over, causing both Lucy and Hancock to laugh. It was a simple moment, but Hancock grew to cherish these moments no matter how big or small.
Hancock opened her arms, inviting both Lucy and Patches into a warm embrace. "You've done a wonderful job with her, Lucy," she praised, her voice soft and filled with genuine affection. "I'm proud of you."
Lucy beamed, snuggling closer to her mother, Patches contently nestled in their hug. "I love you, Mommy. And I think Patches loves you too!"
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the scene, Hancock realized that this—the laughter of her daughter, the warmth of their embrace, and even the joyful yips of Patches—was everything she could ever need.
~~~
A/N: Sorry about the delay in getting out chapters. I have been pretty sick this last month while also trying to work full time I just took time to think of some ideas, write down everyone's ideas from here, wattpad, and Ao3 and took my time writing some future chapters. I have about 6 unfinished chapters for this story and about 4 unfinished chapters for my ZoRobin one shot series.
Thank you to everyone who has given me ideas I have a notebook that I write them all down in and check them off as I go, so I haven't forgotten about anyone's suggestions with this story or the ZoRobin story. I did get a suggestion on Wattpad for a LuHan short story that I have also started working on.
Feel free to leave any ideas/suggestions you have for this series! I will use what I can to build around your idea so it can be incorporated in someway.
If you have left me a comment or sent me a message here, I apologize for not responding. Unfortunately, I only have access to Fanfiction's mobile app and cannot log on to the desktop site to reply. However, this series is on both Wattpad and Ao3 if you would like to send me a message that way.