Author's Note: Hi everyone~ So this chapter is a bit of monster and quite long, but we're finally going to see Shanks and Luffy's past! It is very dark and contains some sensitive themes in it, so please mind the warnings. Thanks to everyone who's reviewed, followed, and favorited, I always appreciate it :) Enjoy~

To Belletiger BT: I'm glad you're enjoying it so far! Lots of info this update on everyone's past. You'll have to read and find out what happened! Thanks so much for the review!

To Wishfull-star: Enjoy the update! Thanks for the review, as always :)

To Loralie Gold Dream: Sorry about that! No cliffhangers this time.

To 94Insane: Haha yeah, everyone has their demons in this one. Though Shanks is definitely trouble and delusional, he loves Luffy a lot and wants them to get along. I hope you enjoy the update! As for updating "To Be Human", it is definitely next on my list ;) Thanks for your patience in advance!

WARNINGS:

- Blood/violence

- Serious injury to a child

- Death of an unborn child

- Implied child abuse/neglect

- Unhealthy coping mechanisms/grief avoidance

- Trauma

- Obsessive behavior


Fourteen years in the past…

Shanks hummed happily as he lay against Makino's belly, listening to the heartbeat of their child. His wife chuckled at his expression and ran her fingers through his unruly hair.

"How do they sound?"

"Good…I think. It's kind of hard to tell." He pulled away so he could plant a chaste kiss on Makino's cheek, causing her to blush. "I can't wait to meet them."

His mate smiled softly down at the still growing bump that would someday soon become a baby. Makino was about six months along and had a healthy glow about her that made Shanks very happy. He couldn't wait to experience the highs and lows of parenthood with her. Having a pup of their own running around and causing trouble…the mere thought made him straighten up with pride.

Shanks leaned over Makino and brushed a strand of hair from her face.

There was no one as beautiful as his wife…no one.

"Shanks, do you think we could have some space?" Makino said with an amused giggle, "I need to finish getting ready."

He retreated with a pout but allowed his mate to stand and make her way to the vanity already loaded with make-up, hair products, and a change of clothes. Though he didn't want her to leave the safety of their territory, Makino had plans to visit Goa, a nearby city, for a 'ladies day' full of shopping and homemade desserts…or so he was told. Technically, he wasn't invited.

"Are you sure you'll be okay in your condition?" Shanks asked, honestly concerned. Makino took a moment to finish pulling on her dress before replying.

"You know we won't do anything too strenuous…and besides, this sort of thing is supposed to be fun! No offense, but I don't think your presence would be appreciated."

Shanks laughed and shrugged, accepting that Makino was right. He knew the women involved in the outing and had the details about where they would be staying, how long she was supposed to be gone…all of it. Of course, that didn't mean she was going to Goa unprotected. A number of his men would be escorting them from afar, just in case.

After all, Goa was home to a number of troublesome Shikari.

Granted, he hadn't had much interaction with them as they didn't go to the city often…but it didn't hurt to be careful.

A few hours later, Shanks helped Makino up into the car and kissed her deeply, drawing an annoyed noise from a few of his men. He smirked and pulled away. They were just jealous they didn't have such a beautiful woman to smother with affection!

"Be careful…but have fun!" Shanks whispered to his wife while squeezing her hand, "I'll be waiting for you."

"I will, thanks." He blinked in surprise when Makino leaned down and nuzzled against his cheek. "I love you, darling."

Shanks' smile widened.

"Yeah…I love you too."


Unsure what to do with himself while Makino was away, Shanks wandered aimlessly around their pack house. He mingled with his pack mates (skirted around Benn who definitely had paperwork or something boring for him to do) and munched on some dried meat to pass the time. It was a quiet day…but peaceful. His thoughts turned to his wife often.

'I hope she's having fun.'

Ever since they found out Makino was pregnant, they hadn't been apart for long, and it was odd to not have her by his side.

Suddenly, his attention was drawn to the front of their pack house. He frowned and looked out the window where a group of his men had gathered. One was wildly waving his arms and appeared distressed. Worried, he rushed out of the room he'd been resting in and almost immediately ran into Benn.

"Woah, sorry-"

"Shanks, thank God. I was just coming to find you." Benn managed, short of breath like he'd ran a long distance. Shanks swallowed hard, recognizing his beta did not have good news to share. Stress and fear rolled off him in waves, quickly filling the hall.

"What is it?"

Benn inhaled and then exhaled sharply, as if readying himself.

"Something's happened…in Goa. I-It looks like…well-"

"Well, what?" Shanks snarled, patience running thin. His beta set his jaw prior to responding.

"…we've received word that the home Makino and the other women were using as their venue…was attacked."

Shanks' blood went cold.


It took mere minutes for Shanks to gather his men and make the drive into Goa, but it felt like an eternity. As they drove, Benn filled him in on what information they had. Per their initial reports, a squadron of Shikari were the culprits…and there were many casualties. So far, no one had heard anything of Makino's condition.

'Please be okay…please.' Shanks thought while clenching and unclenching his fist nervously. Beside him, Benn placed a supportive hand on his shoulder and ordered their driver to speed up.

When they arrived, the scene was chaotic and the scent of blood was strong in the air. Shanks wasted no time leaping out of the vehicle and running towards the front door of the home. He stopped and grit his teeth just before the front steps, recognizing one of his men lying in a pool of his own blood, bullet wounds obvious.

Swallowing down the bile in his mouth, he tightened his fist hard enough that his claws drew blood. He was the Alpha. He had to stay calm and manage the situation.

"Hongo!" Shanks yelled, drawing the attention of his pack doctor. The blonde lycan looked up when he heard his name, currently in the process of pulling his bag out of the car. "Help who you can! I'm going to find Makino!"

"I'm going with you." Benn stated firmly, claws already out. Beside him, Lucky and Yasopp nodded in agreement. Shanks sent them looks of appreciation before running into the home. Though he wanted to help the rest of his pack mates, he had to find Makino first.

Shanks' stomach churned as they passed more bodies, this time of women. Makino's friends. He forced himself to search their faces, ensuring he wouldn't miss her. With how thick the smell of blood was, it was impossible to isolate Makino's scent.

"Boss, over here!" Lucky called, motioning for him to come look at something. Shanks was at his side in seconds and eyed the long blood trail. It looked like someone had been…dragged. Under his men's somber, yet watchful gaze, he followed the trail until he arrived at a closed door.

With a trembling hand, Shanks tried the handle, only to find it locked. He wasted no time kicking the door down and rushed inside. It looked like a small bedroom and a shaking, scarlet body lay on the bed.

"Makino!" He yelled and ran forward, cradling his wife's face. She was so pale and covered in blood. He vaguely heard Benn call for Hongo but couldn't take his eyes away from his love. She still wore that lovely dress she'd changed into that morning, but it was now ruined. Stained red.

"S-Shanks…you're here…" She managed with a ragged cough. Shanks quickly shushed her and scrambled for anything he could use to stem the bleeding.

"Shhh…don't speak. I'm here now, w-we're going to take care of you."

Shanks bunched up a sheet and went to hold it against the main wound that scarred her abdomen, only to freeze for a moment. It looked like someone had already wrapped torn cloth around her and performed basic first aid…perhaps one of the other women? Biting his lip to focus himself, he held the sheet against her belly.

"O-Our baby…"

Shanks felt tears roll down his cheeks and his bottom lip trembled. He hadn't gotten a good look at the extent of her injuries, but based on the amount of blood loss…

"H-Hongo's almost here, love. Just keep breathing, okay?"

Makino clawed at his arm, a sob caught in her throat.

"No…no, no…please, no."

All Shanks could do was hold her and pray she'd survive.


"…fourteen dead, eight injured." Benn reported, breaking the deafening silence of the infirmary. Shanks sat on a stool next to the bed that Makino, holding her hand tightly. "We're still unsure why they attacked. The local human authorities have also started sniffing around, so I don't believe we'll get much else from the scene."

"…and Makino?" Shanks asked in a scratchy, broken voice, directing his question to Hongo. The doctor had dark circles under his eyes and was adjusting her IV. Since retrieving her, Makino hadn't stirred and he hadn't left her side.

"I believe she'll recover." He explained, "I am worried there may be lasting damage given the scar tissue…but only time will tell."

"And…the baby?"

Hongo's expression sorrowed and he looked down at the ground.

"I'm so sorry…we weren't able to save them."

The room was silent except for the beeping of monitors. Shanks felt his head hang and he brought his other hand around to clasp Makino's. Unable to hold himself back any longer he sobbed, tears falling onto his wife's clammy fingers.

Shaking like a leaf and clinging to Makino's near lifeless hand, he howled, his pain and sorrow echoing throughout the room.


Shanks spent the next few days either with Makino in the infirmary or secluded in his room. Though his men tried to get him to eat, he simply wasn't hungry. Whenever he thought of the horrible scene they'd driven up to, his stomach would churn and he'd lose whatever meager food he'd managed to keep down.

He knew that, as the Alpha, he was supposed to lead his pack in hard times, but he could barely keep himself together. The guilt kept bubbling up inside him like a boiling pot and often overflowed.

You should've been there.

You couldn't protect your family.

This is all your fault-

Shanks screamed in frustration and kicked over a nearby chair to interrupt his own thoughts. Body tense, he turned and slammed his fist into the wall, easily creating a hole.

'…I'm so weak.'

Anger dissolving into sorrow, he slumped down to his knees against the wall and allowed his head to fall against its flat surface.

"Some Alpha I am…" He whispered to himself, choosing to ignore the fresh blood flowing from a broken knuckle. How was it that so many lycans could simply move on after tragedy when it was so damn hard?

…what was he supposed to do?

It was then that he felt his instincts stirring. Shanks moved his injured hand down to his chest and grasped at his shirt, inhaling deeply. He knew that they'd been suppressed since the incident by his erratic emotions, but it seemed they were finally able to force their way through. Wanting an escape from the pain, he let them run freely through his body and mind.

A dangerous ploy, but Shanks didn't care. Anything to distract him from reality.

The warmth of ancient blood soared through his body and he felt the need to run, bite, and kill. Bask in the moon's light. Eyes glowing silver, he stood to his feet and sighed contently. The rush of letting your inner wolf take over was unlike any other. Suddenly feeling contained, Shanks eyed the open window with a tooth-filled smirk.

Seconds later, he was running. Sprinting into the nearby woods in his true form. Howling with glee, he reveled in the feeling of his paws hitting the dirt and the amalgamation of scents that hit his nostrils. Without hesitation, he killed whatever crossed his path: deer, fowl, and multiple rabbits.

Maw scarlet with his prey's blood, Shanks stood tall over the mound of bodies he'd created feeling proud. Yes…this was just what he needed.

Tilting his head a bit, he observed his kills closely and his thoughts turned murderous. His mate had been injured and his pup taken from him. Such offenses deserved punishment of the highest degree.

Death.

He released a low growl that got louder as his instincts praised him, pushing him to re-assert his dominance and hunt down the person responsible for his pain. Unfortunately, the rational side of his mind reminded him that a group of Shikari were believed to be the culprits and that it would be difficult to kill them all.

Shaking his head in frustration, Shanks reached out to grab the leg of a deer in his pile. He began to chew on it as his thoughts continued to mingle with his instincts.

'Wait…why do I need to find all of them?' He mused, mouth curling up into a dark smirk. Every squad of Shikari had a leader. By default, they were responsible for their crew's actions. Just as an Alpha was accountable for his pack.

Smirk deepening, Shanks snapped the deer's bone in two with his powerful jaw.

It was perfect.


"Well, what have you found out?" Shanks asked while taking a seat at the table alongside his highest ranked men. Benn shuffled through some papers and eventually tossed a picture onto the table. It was of a middle-aged man with long black hair and a serious expression.

"This is Monkey D. Dragon. He was the leader of the raid."

Shanks scowled down at the picture and let his eyes rake across it, memorizing every detail. Ever since his little 'escape' into the forest, he'd pushed his men hard to find out whatever they could about the Shikari who attacked them with a focus on identifying the leader. Now they were finally seeing results.

"Monkey? He's a member of the Monkey clan!?" Yasopp exclaimed, reaching up to pull on a curl anxiously, "Yikes…that'll make this harder."

"I don't care who he is." Shanks said in a serious voice, quieting the room instantly, "He crossed the line and I intend to make him suffer for what he did."

His men seemed nervous, some even looked away from him, as his furious scent began to waft off him in waves. Shanks did nothing to suppress it and turned his attention back to his beta, motioning for him to continue. Even Benn appeared pale but cleared his throat and resumed his report regardless.

"It seems that this Dragon is a very private person. Finding anything about his private life has been difficult." Benn paused to place a few more pictures on the table. One appeared to be a list of men with small photos by their names and the other showed an older man. "We know that his father, Monkey D. Garp, is a well-known Shikari who specializes in hunting lycans…so we can rationally assume Dragon followed in his footsteps. He seems to have a good reputation among the organization though not so well with the local creature population. Apparently he's quite ruthless."

Shanks turned his scowl to the older man's photo.

'Garp…huh?'

"This is a list we've compiled of Shikari that we believe were involved with the raid." Benn said while motioning to the other piece of paper, "If we want to find this guy, we should probably start with them."

Shanks nodded in agreement.

"Then let's not waste any time. Report back as soon as you find anything worthwhile!"

With that, he dismissed the room and leaned over Dragon's picture. Baring his teeth, Shanks eyed the man's throat. What would it feel like to kill him? To watch the life drain from his eyes?

'Well, they do say that revenge is sweet.'

"Shanks…"

He didn't look up or acknowledge Benn.

"Are you sure you're okay? I know you want to find this guy, but-"

"I'm fine…" He muttered flatly, eyes never leaving the table. "Though I will feel much better once we find Dragon."

Benn huffed behind him and excused himself, leaving Shanks alone.

"Don't worry, Makino." He continued, drawing lines with his claws over Dragon's face, "I'll avenge you and our pup…I promise."


Their breakthrough happened about a week later. They'd finally managed to get their hands on a few Shikari who knew Dragon and it had been quite easy to get them to talk. Hands trembling in excitement, Shanks locked eyes with Benn who'd just returned from a meeting with the lycans in charge of the prisoners. His other commanders were present as well and leaned forward in anticipation.

"It looks like Dragon lives in downtown Goa. He has a townhome by the park." Benn informed them while rolling out a map. Shanks followed his beta's finger to the spot and quickly circled it in red marker. "Though his men say that he's a bit of a workaholic and doesn't spend much time there."

"What about Garp? Does he live with him?" Snake asked, drawing Benn's attention. His beta shook his head.

"No, he doesn't. It looks like Garp is often out of town on high priority jobs and no one is sure where he stays."

Shanks listened attentively as Benn went through everything they'd learned and started to create a mental profile of the man in his head. He was a serious person and was almost always at work. His men apparently found him to be rather 'boring' as he always refused to go out with them after jobs and didn't seem to have any hobbies other than killing lycans.

Their prisoners reported he would often spend the night at the Shikari headquarters when he worked too late.

"No family at home, then?" Yasopp asked with arms crossed, "Only a bachelor could pull that kind of schedule off."

Benn sighed and suddenly looked away from Shanks.

"…that's just it. Though it took some convincing for them to tell us…Dragon apparently has a son."

Shanks' eyes widened both in shock and excitement while his men began to ramble.

"Must be a Shikari too with how much he works…"

"Yeah, no way he's got a kid at home."

"What else do we know about his son?" Shanks said with a widening smirk, making Benn flinch back, "I want to know everything."


Mere days after their last meeting, Shanks found himself crouched behind a long line of manicured bushes alongside his men, observing the townhome in question. It hadn't been difficult to figure Dragon out. He could almost always be found at the local Shikari headquarters and he was only home a few evenings a week.

Today was one of those evenings that Dragon was confirmed to be away from his home…so it was the perfect time to strike.

The building in question was the last in a long line of townhomes built in warm, red brick with a few stairs up to the front door. The front garden looked to be maintained by the neighborhood, given how everyone's yards looked exactly the same, and there was no wreath on the door. A scan of the windows revealed no curtains either, creating a rather stark appearance.

From their previous surveillance, they'd noticed the back yard was less maintained than the front and full of weeds, though most of it was hidden from sight by a tall fence. Needless to say, the home wasn't particularly inviting and it was clear Dragon put all his effort into his work.

Shanks tilted his head when a stout human woman finally exited the home. They'd seen her before and ultimately decided she was some sort of housekeeper. She was around pretty frequently. Now that the sun had dipped behind the horizon, her shift appeared to be over.

Once her car turned the corner, Shanks stood to his feet and smirked.

It was finally time.

"Are we positive his son is going to be home?" Yasopp whispered, eyeing the dark house with uncertainty, "I mean, none of us have ever seen him…what if he's with his dad?"

"If he's not here, I'm not sure he even exists." Benn said while fingering an unlit cigarette in his pocket, "This is the only place he could be."

For all their research, information on Dragon's son was extremely limited. His subordinates seemed certain he existed, but most of them had never even laid eyes on him so they didn't know any specific details like appearance or age. Shanks just figured Dragon was extra careful with his son as a way to keep him from getting involved in any dangerous situations.

It's what he would have done with his own pup.

"Are you sure you want to do this?" Benn asked, quieting the group. Shanks' eyes burned silver and he refused to look away from the house.

"Yeah. I want Dragon to feel the same pain I have."

He knew his men were uncertain about the plan. It didn't sit right with many of them to kill someone who wasn't 'involved' with the incident, but frankly, Shanks didn't care. He wanted to hurt Dragon in every way possible, and taking his son from him was the first step.

Motioning for his men to follow his lead, Shanks agilely leapt over the bushes and quietly made his way towards the back fence. He didn't have to look behind him to know they were following his lead, always loyal despite their reservations.

Though the fence was tall and sturdy by human standards, it was easy to climb over for a group of lycans. Once in the backyard, Shanks began to sniff the air and stepped carefully. There was no telling what kind of traps an elite Shikari placed around their home.

Thankfully, it seemed Dragon was so invested in work, he'd neglected to properly protect his home. They came across no traps during their slow trek to the back door, just wads of weeds and neglected yard equipment. Shanks nodded to Yasopp once they reached the door, prompting him to slip forward and begin to mess with the lock. There was a window next to the entrance, but with the blinds pulled, they couldn't see inside.

"Got it." Yasopp whispered, skillfully unlocking the door and opening it very slowly. Shanks peered inside the dark home and was the first to step over the threshold.

Just like the outside, Dragon's home was anything but 'homey'. He had the bare minimum furniture placed in what they determined was the living room, a single couch and a television set on a cardboard box. The kitchen was clean but equally barren. No photos decorated the walls and there were no rugs to deafen the echo of an empty house.

As they snuck their way into the home, Shanks carefully examined each room they came across on the first floor. All of them were empty of life and furniture except for the laundry room, which held a seemingly functional washer and dryer, and a bedroom that likely belonged to Dragon.

"Geez…doesn't even want to spend money on nightstands." Yasopp muttered, earning himself a jab in the ribs from Lucky. Still, Shanks couldn't help but agree with him. Dragon took 'minimalist' to the extreme. It was a stark contrast from Shanks and Makino's pack house that was so full of life and warmth.

Eventually, they came to the staircase and quietly ascended to the second floor. It looked like there were just three rooms and all the doors were shut. Shanks motioned with his head for Snake and Lucky to take the one across the landing, to their left, while he, Yasopp, Hongo, and Benn headed for the two on the right.

He cracked the first door just enough to see inside and noted it was a bathroom. It was a small space, though Dragon had at least put a shower curtain up. There wasn't much else in there except a single bathmat and a small stool tucked away in the corner. Shanks closed the door silently and turned to Benn who had his hand on the other door's handle.

His beta nodded to him and cracked the door open, causing it to whine ever so slightly. Benn peered inside and tensed up, letting Shanks know it wasn't just another empty room.

He frowned in confusion when Benn cursed under his breath and just stood there, unmoving.

Impatient, Shanks shoved past his men and tugged Benn to the side so he could properly see inside the room. At first, he was uncertain what had given his beta such pause. It seemed like a bedroom of some sort and had a few pieces of furniture in it including a dresser. The blinds were shut, casting shadows on most of the room, but it appeared fairly normal.

His enhanced senses suddenly alerted him to the quiet sound of breathing and his eyes shot towards what had to be a bed placed underneath the window. It took just a few moments for him to register exactly what he was seeing until his breath unconsciously caught in his throat.

…it wasn't just a bed, it was a crib.

Honestly shocked, Shanks slowly entered the room and approached the crib with now shaking hands. He tried to ignore the books and toys scattered across the floor. Of all the scenarios he'd run in his mind regarding Dragon's son, he hadn't expected this.

For the boy to not even be half grown yet.

For him to be an infant.

Swallowing hard, Shanks leaned over the crib to get a better look at its occupant. The human child was very small and appeared to be sleeping. He wore an oversized red t-shirt and loose shorts that didn't look like they fit him properly. His cheeks were round and he had a small amount of black hair on his head that looked soft to the touch.

Unsure what to do, he just stood there and stared at his prey while the rest of his men joined him around the crib. Silently, the lycans loomed over the child, no one moving.

"Well, damn." Yasopp muttered, the first to speak. This time, no one chided him for making noise. "Ain't he a cute little fella…"

The lycan reached a claw down and gently ran it over the toddler's big cheeks. He didn't wake but did babble something and rolled over onto his other side, bringing a well-used blanket with him.

"…what should we do, Boss?" Lucky asked, causing everyone's attention to turn to Shanks.

"I-I…I don't know." He managed, still shocked by the appearance of such a small child. As soon as he'd entered that room and laid eyes on the boy, his bloodlust had dissipated. Shanks was a lot of things, but he wasn't someone who killed children, even if they were the son of his enemy. "Just let me think!"

Unfortunately, his hissed exclamation was a bit louder than he'd anticipated, and the small child began to stir. They all watched in terrified silence as the boy's dark eyes opened and he yawned, stretching his tiny arms as far as they would go. All too soon, before he was at all prepared, the toddler's eyes met Shanks' and he tilted his head in confusion.

"…Daddy?"

No one said a word.

"No…Daddy?"

The kid seemed confused but no one was sure what to say in response to his question. His expressive eyes went from lycan to lycan, examining them with innocent curiosity. Suddenly, the tiny thing laughed loudly, causing all of them to shrink back in fear.

"Play, play!" The boy exclaimed with a bright smile, clumsily clapping his hands together. Before they could react, he sat up and bumbled his way into standing. The kid grabbed hold of the crib's bars to steady himself before jumping up and down excitedly.

Yasopp was the first to cave and rushed in with a teasing smile, scooping the kid up, much to his delight. He squealed and laughed as Yasopp tickled him and began to swing him around. The curly-haired lycan loved kids and was going to be a father himself soon. Of course, given the fact that his partner is human, only time would tell if he actually got to be part of the child's life. Apparently, Banchina didn't want their baby involved with lycan society if he was born human...which was a very real possibility.

"W-What are you doing, idiot!?" Lucky managed, drawing the curly-haired lycan's attention away from the toddler for a moment.

"…playing with him. What's it look like?"

Snake sighed while Hongo brought a hand to his face in disbelief.

"In case you've forgotten…that kid's our target."

"I know, but just look at him! He's adorable!"

Somehow, all of the fearsome lycans ended up sitting on the floor with the human child. He ran around the circle their bodies created, laughing like he was having the time of his life. While Shanks debated what to do, his men entertained the boy, playing peek-a-boo or tossing him up in the air (which he seemed to particularly enjoy).

"Up you go!" Hongo said with a playful grin as he tossed the kid up and skillfully caught him, causing the boy to squeal in excitement.

"Again, again!" He cried, prompting the doctor to throw him towards the ceiling a second time.

"I don't want to rush you, but we probably shouldn't stick around." Benn whispered, causing Shanks to sigh deeply. He knew his beta was right but it felt like his mind had just stopped working. Even his instincts, which had been in full support of his plan, were a jumbled mess with the child's appearance.

"What's your name, squirt?" Yasopp asked when the kid toddled over and dropped a toy train in his lap. "You've got a name, right?"

They all leaned closer as the child considered his words. Unfortunately, the kid didn't seem to fully understand his question and just focused on playing with the train, plopping down onto his bottom.

"Here, let me try something…" Hongo muttered, standing to his feet and moving behind the child. The kid didn't react as he tugged on the tag to his shirt, revealing a smudge of dark marker. "Ah, here we go. Looks like his name is 'Luffy'. Monkey D. Luffy, I assume."

The boy affirmed their discovery by whirling around at the sound of his name, smile never dimming.

"Luffy!"

"Yeah, that's you kiddo." Lucky said with a fond chuckle, "It's a good name. Suits you."

Shanks bit the inside of his cheek as 'Luffy' made his way around the circle, throwing his tiny body into their laps and demanding they play with him. Eventually, he stopped in front of him and placed his little hand on his knee. The pressure was so light he could barely it through his pants. With his other hand, the child pointed up at his hair, mouth open wide in surprise.

Though he didn't say anything, it was clear he was quite taken with Shanks' red hair and quickly clambered into his lap, stretching up to try and touch it. For his part, he went stock still, heart racing. Shanks didn't dare try to lay hands on the child for fear he might harm him.

Or worse…get attached.

"Hey, Boss. Could you hold him still for just a minute?" Hongo suddenly asked, making Shanks tense up even more than he already was. "I just want to check something."

Deeply uncomfortable holding the child he'd entered the home to kill, he delicately cradled Luffy to his chest. The boy giggled and nuzzled contently into his shoulder, causing further breakage to Shanks' already fractured heart. Still, he held him close per Hongo's request, prompting the doctor to approach and kneel in front of them.

"What's up?"

Hongo hummed in thought and went over the kid's arms and head with practiced ease. Shanks frowned when he gently lifted the child's shirt, revealing a very skinny frame.

"I noticed earlier when I was holding him…but he's very small."

"So? He's just a newborn pup. Aren't they all small?" Snake put in unhelpfully, making Hongo huff.

"Based on his ability to speak and his mobility, I assume he's around two…definitely not quite three yet, but if that's the case, his weight is not where it should be. Could I get a light, Lucky?"

The larger lycan nodded and clicked on a flashlight, aiming it at the child's back.

Luffy laughed when Hongo's fingers brushed his ribs, thinking the man was tickling him.

"…and here. Healing bruises."

They all went silent in shock and crowded around Luffy to get a better look. Shanks held the child up so he could see and his eyes widened when they caught a glimpse of yellowing marks along the tiny pup's sides. Now in the better light, he also saw some around one of the boy's arms and both of his knees.

"Okay…so maybe he's a clumsy kid." Yasopp said in a firm voice, "You all saw how he was with us and we broke into his house!"

"Maybe, but we also know that Dragon doesn't spend much time at home." Benn put in solemnly, "I think it's safe to assume Luffy is often left here by himself."

Shanks felt his grip on the child tighten instinctively even as he allowed Luffy to play with his claws. Though his opinion of Dragon hadn't been good to begin with, now it was even worse. He left his infant at home, alone!?

…did he lay hands on him?

Shanks growled softly and their scents all soured as the reality of little Luffy's situation came crashing down on them. The child didn't notice, of course. Human noses couldn't pick up things that a lycan's could. He just made himself comfortable in Shanks' lap and babbled nonsense. He looked up and met his men's determined gazes.

Though most of them hadn't shared his intense hatred of Dragon in particular since identifying him as the leader of the Shikari squadron, now he believed they felt similarly to him…just for a slightly different reason.

"We'll take him back to the pack house and figure things out from there. Sound good?"

His pack mates nodded and stood to their feet, followed closely by Shanks. Luffy seemed surprised by the sudden change in position but just smiled up at him, probably expecting a game or more play time.

"Luffy?" Shanks said in a soft voice, causing the child's head to tilt slightly at his name, "We're going to go somewhere together, okay? Somewhere you can eat and play all you want. Doesn't that sound fun?"

The child's grin widened and he nodded.

"Food!"

Shanks couldn't help but return the happy kid's smile while they began to quietly return to the first floor. At first, Luffy didn't seem to have a problem being carried around, but as soon as the back door was opened, he started to make a fuss.

"No! Daddy say no!"

Shanks tightened his grip on the now squirming child, trying to keep him still.

"It's okay, Luffy. J-Just calm down…" He tried, but this only seemed to agitate the boy more. Shanks sighed and sent a pointed look to his men, desperate for ideas.

"I…I hate to suggest it…" Hongo said with a guilty look on his face, "…but I do have some sedatives in my bag. Might keep him calm until we get home."

"Are those even safe for kids?" Yasopp questioned with arms crossed. Hongo nodded and pulled a capped syringe out of one of his bag's many pockets.

"Yeah, in small doses, but it's your call, Boss."

Before Shanks could reply, his instincts flared and unfamiliar scents reached his nostrils. He immediately snarled and dropped into a crouch. His men also noticed the smells and went silent, sniffing the air in an attempt to identify the newcomers.

"…Shikari." Benn hissed, eyes glued to the front door where headlights could be seen pulling up to the townhome. "How did they find us so fast!?"

Shanks' eyes scanned the room and were drawn to a barely noticeable, flashing red light towards the bottom of the back door's frame. They hadn't noticed it when they came in due to its orientation to the frame. It seemed that Dragon wasn't so negligent with his security after all.

"Spread out." He ordered in a deep voice, still holding tight to Luffy. "We'll face them here."

"What if they attack?"

"They won't…not while we have Dragon's son." Shanks replied, straightening up and moving Luffy closer to his chest. The boy had gone silent and stared up at him with big eyes. He was unsure if the child was scared or not. If anything, Luffy just seemed confused about the whole situation and why they weren't playing with him anymore.

Thankfully, they didn't have to wait long for the Shikari to make their move. The telltale sign of a key inserted into the front door's lock let them know they were about to have company. Shanks kept his expression as neutral as he could when a familiar face rushed into the house, dark circles under his eyes and long, black hair pulled back into a ponytail.

He'd know Monkey D. Dragon's face anywhere.

"Luffy!" The Shikari yelled, eyes full of terror. Behind him, a group of armed Shikari also entered and wasted no time pointing their weapons at them. Shanks immediately brought a clawed hand up to the boy's chin, careful not to harm him but holding the threatening posture, nonetheless.

"Monkey D. Dragon…I've been wanting to meet you for a long time now."

Dragon's fearful gaze moved from Luffy to Shanks, expression changing to one of realization.

"You're…"

"Your orders, Sir." One of the Shikari called, prompting Dragon to quickly shove the barrel of his weapon to the side.

"Don't shoot, you might hit Luffy!"

Rather reluctantly, Dragon's subordinates lowered their weapons but stayed on guard, eyes locked on Shanks' hand dangerously close to Luffy's throat. Of course, Shanks had no intention of hurting the boy, but since he knew the child's value, he intended to use him to ensure they escaped the situation safely.

And maybe hurt Dragon in the process.

"I know you're angry, 'Red Haired' Shanks." Dragon begun, taking a small step forward with is hands raised, "But Luffy has nothing to do with this…please, let him go and let's talk this through."

"Like you let Makino and her friends, go?" Shanks shot back with a snarl, "No…Luffy is going to stay right here with me." The child in his arms had noticed his father and squirmed, trying to get down to the floor, but Shanks didn't let him. He tightened his grip, causing the child to squeak in surprise.

…hopefully not pain.

"D-Daddy…" Luffy whimpered, now sniffling as if he was going to cry. Dragon moved his arms in front of him in a placating motion and shushed him.

"Shhh, it's okay, Luffy. Everything is going to be fine, so don't struggle." The Shikari then turned his attention back to Shanks. "Please, I'll do anything you want…just let him go."

Shanks was a bit taken aback by the desperation in Dragon's voice. He'd assumed, based on his obvious neglect of the child, that he didn't care all that much about him. Even so, he'd intended to prey on Dragon's instincts as a father and rescue Luffy in the process…but he actually seemed to care about him.

…and that just made him angrier.

Why was it that someone like him could have a child and he couldn't!? Why was his baby taken away while Dragon had the unconditional love of a sweet boy like Luffy!?

"Anything, huh?" He said in a dark tone, jaw tense with anger, "Then surrender to me, right now. Agree to come quietly and we'll have a one-on-one chat about what you did."

"…and Luffy?"

Shanks hefted him up in his arms, startling the child.

"He comes too, of course. Wouldn't want you to cause any trouble."

"You're making a mistake! He's just a child!"

Those words made Shanks burn with fury.

"So was mine…my baby, not even born yet, and now they're gone because of you!"

Dragon seemed taken aback by his reply and had the gall to look guilty.

"Then you'll let him go? I have your word he'll go free?" Dragon asked, eyes serious and expression determined. Though Shanks didn't particularly want to release Luffy, he found himself agreeing to Dragon's terms. If it meant he could have his revenge…he would do what he asked.

"…you have my word."

Almost immediately, Dragon's men began to protest his decision, some even reaching out to grab his arms and physically hold him back.

"You can't be serious! He'll kill you!"

"Let's wait for reinforcements!"

"There's no time!" Dragon shot back, ripping his arms from their protective grasp, "My son's life is at stake here! I'll do whatever it takes to save him!"

Reluctantly, his subordinates backed down and allowed Dragon space to move. With a deep breath, the Shikari lifted his arms again and started to move towards them. Shanks motioned with his head for Benn and Snake to go secure him, but then, a loud crack broke the uneasy silence. His eyes widened in shock when a bullet barely missed Dragon's body and continued straight towards him.

It was his ridiculous lycan reflexes that saved him from taking a silver bullet to the heart. He barely managed to turn himself so the bullet hit his left shoulder instead, all while curling protectively around Luffy. Shanks released a suppressed cry of pain when it made contact, obliterating the joint and causing his arm to fall useless at his side.

Then, all chaos broke loose.


As soon as the bullet made contact with his flesh, Dragon's subordinates took it as an invitation to attack. Soon the sound of gunfire filled the air and Shanks, along with his men, were forced to retreat or risk further injury. He chose to ignore the burning pain in his now useless arm and focused on protecting the tiny human pup still held close to his chest.

Shanks had no idea who'd taken the shot, but whoever they were had definitely been aiming to kill and hadn't cared about Luffy's presence.

'Did his words mean nothing?' Shanks thought as they ran, thinking back to what he'd believed to be Dragon's sincerity. Clearly it had all been a ploy and Dragon had no qualms risking his son's life.

"Into the park!" He yelled to his men as they leapt over the tall fence and ran from the deadly scene. Thankfully, the father they got from Dragon's home, the fewer bullets they had to dodge. Lycans were much more mobile than humans, after all.

"Shanks, your arm!" Benn yelled from beside him, "You need to be treated!"

"I know, I know!" He answered in a hissed voice, "Just a little father!"

Eventually, they came to a halt next to a pond deep inside the city park. There weren't any humans around due to the late hour, which was a blessing. Shanks groaned in pain and slowly lowered himself to the ground. Hongo and Benn crowded around him and began to examine his limp arm.

"Did you get hit anywhere else?" The doctor questioned while pulling out a pair of scissors to cut his sleeve off. Shanks, feeling a bit dizzy from the pain and blood loss, honestly couldn't tell.

"…dunno, maybe?" It was then that he finally looked down at Luffy's tuft of black hair and he gently loosened his grip on the poor boy. If he hadn't been scared earlier, he was definitely scared now. "Hey, pup…you okay?"

When the kid didn't respond, Shanks felt his heart rate quicken in fear. Ignoring his men, he pulled Luffy away from his chest and felt his breath hitch. He'd originally thought his blood had gotten on the child, but now it was clear he hadn't managed to protect Luffy as thoroughly as he'd thought.

One of the bullets had passed through his body and into Luffy's.

"Forget me, L-Luffy's been-"

Hongo immediately left his side and rushed to the pale child, taking him from him and putting pressure on the wound. Luffy was breathing in gasps and his red shirt was wet with blood from a wound to his chest. Shanks barely felt Benn tighten the tourniquet on his arm and his heart dropped into his stomach.

He'd failed to protect yet another child.

"I-It doesn't look good, Boss." Hongo managed while trying his best to stop the bleeding. "Silver bullets are meant for lycans…if used on humans-"

It's devastating.

Shanks felt like he couldn't breathe and clutched at his chest. Was Luffy going to die because of him? He thought back on his original plan and cursed it. If only he hadn't-

"Breathe, Shanks!" Benn yelled in his ear, bringing him back to reality, "We need you to guide us! Tell us what you want to do!"

His beta's voice echoing through his head, Shanks slowed his breathing and exhaled sharply. His inner wolf provided him with an unnatural sense of calm and his silver eyes turned to Luffy's trembling form. His instincts encouraging him, he reached for the child with his right arm.

"Bring him to me."

"B-But-"

"Now." He commanded, making Hongo's eyes drop to the ground in submission. Hesitating only slightly, the doctor carried Luffy over to him and positioned his tiny body against Shanks' chest, supported by his good arm.

The poor thing was barely awake but stared up at him with dark, innocent eyes. Shanks looked down at Luffy with a tender expression and took a moment to brush blood from his round cheeks.

"I'm so sorry, little one…this is all my fault. Please forgive me."

With that, Shanks opened his mouth wide and allowed his sharp teeth to extend as much as they could before sinking them into the tender skin between Luffy's neck and shoulder. The child tensed up and released a small noise of fear, but he was barely conscious from the blood loss and reacted less than Shanks' had expected.

He tried to be as gentle as possible and held him in place while his lycan blood passed from his teeth into Luffy. Shanks knew that turning a child would be frowned upon, but the only way to save his life at this stage was the change.

'Come on, come on.' Shanks thought, holding onto the boy tightly with his teeth even when he started to struggle.

"Look out!"

Suddenly, Shanks felt himself roughly shoved to the side and lost his grip on Luffy for a brief moment. Cursing inwardly, he grabbed the child once again with his teeth, wincing when Luffy cried out. He'd tried not to move much so his scar wouldn't be too large, but now…

"What have you done!?"

Feeling the change fully take root in Luffy's body, Shanks finally removed his teeth from the boy's neck and pulled away, ignoring the incoming Shikari. He watched with satisfaction as his wounds healed completely in seconds, leaving no evidence he'd ever even been injured. Noting Luffy's shirt was in tatters, he quickly pulled it off and dropped it on the ground.

Seconds later, Luffy inhaled deeply and his eyes opened, this time glowing bright silver. They met Shanks' and he immediately felt a sense of love for the small pup. Luffy seemed to feel the same and reached his small hand up to Shanks' face like a newborn who'd laid eyes on their parent for the first time.

"…Daddy?"

He could have cried right then and there but managed to hold himself together. He knew that the connection between sire and pup was strong but hadn't experienced it himself before. Luffy had actually imprinted on him. His instincts screamed in joy and he hugged the child, feeling complete and happy for the first time in what felt like an eternity.

Mine.

My pup.

"Get the hell away from my grandson, monster!"

Shanks had very little time to react as a fist came straight towards his face. Unfortunately, the sudden movement caused him to lose his grip on Luffy and the child slipped from his grasp. He instinctively tried to reach for him with his left hand, but his arm wouldn't move. Shanks growled at the newcomer who now had Luffy in his arms.

Though his mind reminded him that he recognized this Shikari, all his wolf side could think of was Luffy. The human was trying to take his pup away from him!

Shanks snarled and barred his still bloody teeth at the large human, trying to figure out the best way to attack. His gaze was drawn to the side when Dragon appeared and took Luffy from the larger man, shock obvious on his face.

'Can't he tell he doesn't want to be with him?' Shanks thought, smirking when the child tried to get away from Dragon and reached for Shanks. Thanks to his wolf blood and instincts, Luffy wanted nothing more than to be at his side.

With his sire.

"Y-You turned him…" Dragon said in a slow and terrified voice while holding Luffy's chin so he could see his eyes. The taller Shikari grit his teeth and readied his fists while Shanks dropped into a crouch, fully prepared to kill whoever he needed to get his pup back.

Unfortunately, it was then that his men grabbed him and began to forcefully pull him away from his pup. He growled and snapped at them but his movements were sluggish, painfully ineffective.

"I know this is hard, Shanks, but now is not the time!" Benn hissed in his ear, "You need proper medical attention or you're going to die. There will be other chances."

Shanks forced himself to relax at that and allowed his pack mates to lead him away from the battle. In the distance, he saw more Shikari coming and knew it was time to go no matter how he felt. With a frustrated growl, he fixed Dragon in place with a silver-eyed stare.

"Mark my words, Dragon, I will come for him! Luffy will join my pack and you'll pay for what you did!"

The man held Luffy close to his chest while the older Shikari moved to stand in front of them protectively. Shanks just laughed to himself, still reveling in the amazing feeling of having a child's love. Of feeling like a father. Luffy's innocent affection, in that small moment, had filled his heart to the brim and forced out all the pain and grief.

He had to have it again.

He needed Luffy by his side and wouldn't rest until he was successful, no matter how long it took.

'Wait for me, pup. We'll see each other again someday. Count on it.'


Days later, Shanks sat beside Makino's bed. His wife, though still pale, had finally woken up and was propped against the headboard. He held her hand tightly, disliking the expression of pure shock on her face.

He had just finished explaining what happened at Dragon's home…and how he'd come to lose his arm.

Unfortunately, though Hongo had done everything he could on their way home, his arm was beyond saving. The bullet had destroyed the joint and amputation was a safer option to avoid infection. Shanks knew his appearance was shocking so he tried to present himself as a steady presence to his poor, traumatized wife who'd only just woken from a nightmare.

"Y-You did…what?"

"I failed in taking revenge for our baby's death…this time." Shanks answered firmly, "Next time, though-"

"Please, no!" Makino interrupted, eyes full of tears, "Please don't leave me again!"

Shanks' felt his expression soften and he wasted no time joining Makino on the bed and holding her against his chest. The action caused some pain to his residual shoulder muscles, still wrapped in bandages, but he chose to ignore it.

"I'm sorry I left, love. Please forgive me."

Instead of focusing on Dragon, Shanks decided to tell Makino about Luffy. About how cute and friendly he was, and how he'd imprinted on him. His wife listened quietly, sniffling on occasion and delicately brushing a hand over her injured belly.

"…you saved him?" Makino asked, prompting Shanks to nod. She sighed, relief obvious in her expression. "Thank goodness…I'm glad he'll be all right."

"Yeah, I can't wait for you to meet him!"

Though Shanks grinned, Makino just looked concerned and pulled away from him.

"I'm not sure that's a good idea, dear. I-I mean-"

"Don't worry! I know he feels the same way." Shanks said, recalling how Luffy had reached for him. "The only issues are Dragon and Garp…" Before Makino could reply, Benn entered the infirmary, drawing their attention.

"Anything?"

"Unfortunately, no." Benn replied with a shake of his head, "Dragon has disappeared and taken Luffy with him. He's left no trace behind." Shanks clicked his tongue in annoyance.

"Damn Shikari."

Shanks leaned back against the headboard and huffed. It felt good to have a purpose again…a goal, and so long as he was pursuing that goal, it was easy to force any feelings of pain deep inside himself. Easy to smile again.

"Shanks…" Makino managed, tugging on his shirt to get his attention, "T-This whole thing just doesn't feel right. That poor b-boy…" He shushed her and nuzzled against her face.

"Trust me, love. I know what I'm doing."

From then on, Shanks dedicated himself to finding Dragon and Luffy despite Makino's constant pressure to abandon the search. While his wife held memorials and grieved, Shanks focused on tracking the tiny toddler who'd become so important to him. Unfortunately, Dragon was obviously aware of Shanks' intentions and constantly moved Luffy, making it very difficult to locate him.

Even so, Shanks enjoyed the search…and the distraction.

Until finally, fourteen years later, he was able to reunite with Luffy (under rather dubious circumstances) and he couldn't be happier. All of his toil and strife had been worth it.

…right?