Archive of Our Own

The intercom buzzed from its place ingrained into the cement slab wall. Law couldn’t make out the message from the hoots and meatheaded comments of the alphas surrounding him, but he had been through this rodeo before. It was more than likely a chirpy voice giving them an estimated time of departure, and if the cheers and laughter was anything to go by, it was soon.

Law felt conflicted by the news. For one, he desperately wanted room to move without colliding with another person. That was enough to give him some relief despite the increase in volume. However, it was another minute toward doom. The annual Sabaody festival of love and all that came with it. People traveled far and wide not only for its perfect vacation destination title, but to participate in the festival, one that used to be worldwide until the past few decades. Too many countries deemed it barbaric. Law would have to agree despite his current position as an active participant. It was different, he reasoned. He wasn’t here for the same reasons others were. Though, given his name as a pirate, it was hard to conceive those reasons were better than others. They were only different.

His crew was thrilled by the prospect of Law returning with a new member. Bepo had even offered to buy more bedding and a nice gift for Law to give to the stranger. He was always excitable when the chance to make a new friend came up, especially if they’d stick around a while. Penguin even said he’d make sure there was plenty of food warm for when he returned in a week. It was as if they believed a meal and comfy place to lie a head would be enough to make an omega look over the fact their alpha would be Trafalgar Law.

He’s participated in this festival before with little success. Once a candidate turns eighteen, they are able to enter themselves to find a mate the old fashioned way- in a spur of the moment decision guided by lust and the urge to dominate. Law’s never been a fan. His first run was when he was 18 was with Shachi and Penguin, who had done it before and failed. Law took one step into the arena and turned up his nose. “No thanks. You two have fun.”

“Aw, you aren’t even gonna try?” Penguin gasped. “Walk around a little bit. We are behind the pack with this one so the smell of alpha is clouding your senses. Once you get a whiff of an omega, oh boy- Wait, what are you doing?”

Law resumed pawing at the closed door, staring up at the camera, which blinked down at him with a piercing red beam. “Trying to go back inside. It’s cold.”

“Well, if you didn’t wear huge ass coats all the time, maybe you’d be able to retain some body heat like a normal person!” Penguin crossed his arms over his chest. “The door isn’t gonna open for a week, so you better-”

The door creaked open and Law slipped through the crack.

“That easy?” Shachi gaped. “W-Well, I guess I just never thought they’d open ‘cause… who the fuck would want them to?”

“I’m gonna kick him when I see him again. This was meant to be fun!”

“Hey, at least he followed the rules and didn’t ‘Room’ out of here.”

“Shut up.”

Law had more fun inside the Polar Tang, locked up in his captain’s quarters until the effects of the drugs he was given wore off.

The process of the festival was easy. Be of age and unmated. Proceed to the facility where you will shower and strip. They give you thin clothes and a paper cup with three bite sized tablets inside to provoke your heat or rut accordingly. Now, if you are an omega, it is Law’s belief that you are immediately guided to the arena, a several acre nature park blocked off at all times aside from the festival. Omegas are allowed to settle down, find a hidey-hole, bath in river water to further mask their natural scent, whatever they desire. Some odd hours later, the doors rise once more and then it’s the alphas turn to enter the playing field. Basic rules: No weapons or serious attempts at maiming. No communicating with the outside. No devil fruit powers are to be used. Those were non-negotiable…. except for attempts away from surveillance camera lenses. Just have to know the blind spots.

He tried once more when he was 20. He happened to be in the area and the dynamic duo wanted to try their hand once more at bagging a babe. This time Law had walked out into the field; he explored a little with no intention of following any of the mediocre scents. There was a pond and several streams running through the area. There were some rocky hills and ledges that stood above his head, but looked climbable if he so chose to. Caves and droopy willows were plentiful and gave a good sense of privacy, or so they seemed to until Law ducked under the dangling leaves of a willow and came face to face with a coupling. The alpha snapped in his direction as he simply continued his path through the tree and out the other side. Only then did he allow his nose to wrinkle. Rancid.

But now here he was, 26 and mateless. He wouldn’t mind not having a mate, but his crew disagreed and it wasn’t just because they wanted another crewmate. Law had a few awful habits that admittedly would be solved with a mate onboard, and it’s been a subject that's been brought up on multiple embarrassing occasions.

“Law, that season is coming. Are you intending to threaten to throw me overboard for finding and bringing you your hat again?” This happened on more than one occasion.

“So, now that you seem in a better mood, Shachi is still on that one island you dropped him off at.” He couldn’t help it that Shachi’s alpha pheromones were like breathing in exhaust and that Shachi had an awful habit of trying to start things when they were approaching rut. Shachi got used to his occasional sudden vacations.

“You know, Ikkaku had to drag you out of town two days ago because the marines were coming, right? It was so crazy, they were all in a tizzy about some dumb alpha in rut decided to leave his ship and thought it was a good day to harass a poor omega and growl at anyone who came near you. By the way, that omega did not want to exchange communications after the incident.”

… Yeah. Law had a track record for not being the best alpha out there. He was grouchy and unreasonable during his ruts. He’d crowd others, get in their space and was quicker to belittle or bite. His crew, ever the kind hearted ones, assured him that that was all rather normal behavior, but that during ruts it was particularly worse. Hence Shachi’s island getaways. Now it was Law’s job to find an omega willing to curb the worst of his tendencies. Or, as some on the Polar Tang would call it, have Law ‘get some’. Perhaps that alone would calm it down. He didn’t think so.

“The arena is opening. Please stay clear of the doors and do not pass the threshold before the whistle.” Law slinked to the back of the crowd where there was now plenty of space to stand.

The doors opened and Law was hit with a wave of smells, some bad, some tolerable. It seemed enough to get the others in a knot because the moment the whistle sounded, everyone scrambled over each other to go into the arena. Law calmly walked out once everyone had disappeared in the treeline, his gaze turning to face one of the cameras hanging near the entrance. They streamed the beginning live, both the omegas and the alphas. Law gave a two fingered salute to his crew, then wandered lazily to the woods, choosing the most defined path.

He was always told that he’d know the scent to chase. He didn’t believe in that “soulmate” bullshit, much less that there was even a connection between scent and the chances of a person being a suitable partner for you. In this scenario, he didn’t have time to properly talk to and assess a partner though. It was instincts, and his always told him No. No yet. Not this one.

He waded through the underbrush, continuing on his way. He walked across a brook by using large stones to avoid wetting his bare feet. There was a field of wildflowers perhaps halfway through the arena. Now, Law didn’t necessarily expect an omega to be waiting for him in the field of yellow and white, but his destination was nevertheless the center of this clearing, where the flowers brushed the tops of his thighs.

The smell from the pollen did a great deal in hiding the other gross bodily scents wafting in the air. He inhaled with a hum. As he stood in the center, debating whether to take a rest before continuing on his way, he saw branches wack forward as someone else entered the clearing, their eyes locked on his.

Law stared back, watching without any discernible feeling as the person, a young man, hopped over a little bush and began to storm straight toward Law, a strange smile on his lips.

He turned to look around him, but there was nothing nearby that’d be something another alpha would be particularly protective over. There was no hint of an omega hiding in the weeds either. Law pursed his lips and reluctantly took a few steps to the side to get out of the other's way, but he lurched back when he felt an iron grip clamp down on his forearm. He whirled around to face the other, a growl hiking in his throat as he met two wide brown eyes and a perfect, straight-toothed grin.

“Hey, do you want to mate?”

Law’s eyes bored down at the pest. “No.”

The man’s head cocked to the side, eyebrows furrowing. “Huh? Why not? Did you already find someone else or something?”

Law’s lip twitched. He scanned the clearing once more, awaiting a laughing lackey for this buffoon to pop out, but none did. Was this meant to be some kind of initiation for a fight? Over nothing? Obviously, Law didn’t smell like an omega. He had been told once in a blue moon that his scent wasn’t particularly strong, even during his ruts, but he for sure didn’t look like an omega either.

The man before him was shorter, perhaps a little thicker in the biceps and legs. He had a softer face too, no facial hair or lines under his eyes like Law. If anything, he’d be mistaken for an omega over Law. Well, if it wasn’t for the putrid stench of alpha wafting in the air around them.

“Let go, I don’t want your scent on me,” Law hissed, ripping his arm away from the young alpha, who gaped at him. “It’s going to give me a migraine.”

“I smell delightful!” The man huffed. “I took a shower this morning!”

“And who told you that?” Law replied before realizing… he had better things to do than to be entertaining some bizarre alpha. He did, however, pause as he noticed the young alpha’s hair wasn’t a hint wet compared to those he was released with. Law’s hair still had moisture clinging to it, although not dripping.

“My brother!” He snapped back.

“He’s a liar,” Law said. He turned away and began to head off into the woods in a random direction, eyelids falling as he heard footsteps crunching weeds behind him. “I said no. Get lost.”

“Nope.”

Law twitched, but carried on his way. “I don’t understand your play here. I’m just going to ignore you, so you may as well head off. It’ll only be an hour or so more before the pills kick in. It won’t be a smart position for you.”

“Tell me about it!” The man exclaimed as if Law had not placed a thinly disguised threat on a platter. “I barely ate anything at all today, and now I feel like my tummy is killing me after those pills. Hey, will you get some food for me?”

Law took a moment to breathe. “Pretty pathetic if you can’t get your own food.”

“Pretty pathetic of my mate to not be able to feed me.”

Law pushed a branch back and slipped into the treeline, letting the branch go without care for the duckling following him. He heard nothing in response and inwardly sighed at the fact it didn’t hit the guy.

“You didn’t deny it that time,” The man cooed as though he had spent months worming his way into Law’s heart. “I’m Luffy.”

“I don’t care.”

“You should so you know what to call me.” What a brat, Law thought. At least there was a name he could give the moderators if needed. He wanted to avoid fights if at all possible. This was meant to be relaxing, he grumbled to himself. He was meant to be finding a partner for the next few days. Cuddling up under the stars, sucking each others neck and nipping exposed skin… Not having another alpha tailing him. Was he sizing Law up? Wanting to fight the moment they crossed an omega so Luffy could try and kick his ass to impress them? He had another thing coming. Law hadn’t ever contributed to rule breaking in the past, but if it meant a swift end to Luffy in a fight, he’d use his power.

Fifteen minutes passed from the clearing and Luffy still was following him. Law had almost been able to ignore the gross stench, but he couldn’t dismiss Luffy’s loud voice calling, “Where are we going?”

“Who is we?” Law mused dryly, growling when Luffy bumped his arm like one would to a chum.

“I found a cool little cave back near that field. I’m getting a little tired.”

“Then go back there and take a nap then.”

“Well. I wasn’t sure if you had an idea of a place or if we were trying to find one,” Luffy admitted, scratching his chin.

Law didn't dignify that as needing a response and carried on. Luffy fell quiet with an awkward air that eventually dissipated. From the corner of Law’s eye, he could see Luffy’s stiff lip and eyes roaming the trees, discomfort evident. He smiled to himself and pressed on.

As they walked, they had the misfortune of crossing a couple against a tree. They went at it frantically, panting like they had been running. The omega’s leg was bent upward like a standing splits as the alpha drove into them, fingers curling tight enough around their plush waist to leak blood from under their fingernails. Once they got a good ten feet from the tree and the lustful couple, Luffy whistled. Law rolled his eyes.

After a while, it was more obvious how many more pairings were in this area. Not only could Law make them out as well as someone smelling flowery garbage in a perfume shop, but the smell of sex was permeating the air and getting on his nerves.

Luffy didn’t remark on the change, though Law was starkly aware that the facility provided thin shorts he was wearing did nothing to hide his arousal, which twitched and stiffened against his will or desire. He didn’t care for the ones hiding away, mating like rabbits and entwining with one another, but his alpha, his instincts, begged to differ. If he was maybe more bone-headed and unaware of the potential diseases or other health concerns, maybe he’d lose himself to the hedonistic daze that captured everyone else and welcome any polyamorous couples arms to join in the festival's purpose.

“Alpha, I’m getting hot,” Luffy murmured. He, unlike Law, was wearing a thin shirt that may as well have been cling wrap. Law could see everything. He watched as Luffy pulled on the shirt collar, pulling it to and fro to get some air circulating on his sweat slicked, tan skin. The feeling was mutual. Midday was brutal, and since Law spent so much time in cold darkness under the waves that he wasn’t quite prepared to survive the blistering sun.

“Don’t call me that, it’s weird.” Law pursed his lips at the thought though; mind you, not of Luffy’s utterance of the word, but the general thought. What would it be like to be called by his secondary gender like that? While he did have rough ruts, he never thought himself as so animalistic, but the thought of a petite, doe eyed omega begging to him for protection, care, comfort, all the while saying ‘Alpha’? Law bit the inside of his cheek. The pills were kicking in. These weren’t normal thoughts. “My name’s Trafalgar Law.”

“Law?”

Too familiar. “Try again.”

Luffy pursed his lips. “To…. ra…”

Law paused in his steps. He swiveled on his heels to face the young alpha, who had his tongue sticking out like that’d cool him down. “Trafalgar.”

“Torao.”

“You aren’t even trying.”

“It’s a pet name!” Luffy insisted with a cheeky grin. Law shook his head. Trying to get anything through his head was pointless. “Let’s find some water now, okay?”

A cool drink didn’t sound awful. Sabaody was known for its fresh springs drawn straight from the ground and while Law didn’t trust many things, he decided to cut his losses and take a drink when on the other hand he could instead of building a fire, finding a container and boiling the water. Too much effort.

“Do you know this arena?” Law asked as he looked around.

“Nope! This is my first time!”

Law glanced at him. “How… old are you?”

“19!” Luffy announced and Law knew well enough that even if he said 18 than that was still old enough to know to leave other alphas alone during the festival. Still, just hearing his age out loud made Law’s brow crease. He knew Luffy had to be at least 18, but upon hearing it Law assessed that Luffy really was rather small for his age and dynamic. It wasn’t too uncommon, but to seemingly try to partner up with Law, a taller, more mature alpha? It was certainly a choice. “I didn’t know about this festival until recently. I have some buddies in it; you may have seen them when you were waiting for the door to open. One of them has done it before and wanted me to join too. Said it was my job to track down a mate, so here we are.”

“You are meant to choose an omega, idiot,” Law huffed. As he said that, Luffy pushed past him and began to lead the way toward where he thought water was. Law followed.

“Why would I choose an omega?” Luffy cackled. “I think you are the stupid one, Torao.”

He rolled his eyes. Uneducated, Law guessed as he trudged after him. Stupid as he may be, Luffy did seem to lead them right to a stream as though the woods was the back of his hand. With a groan, Luffy bounced to the stream and jumped in despite how shallow it was. The water splashed up around him, lapping at his waist. He dunked his head under twice, getting himself thoroughly soaked before sitting down near the edge where rocks practically made for sitting and soaking were. Law knelt down to the side of Luffy and cupped his hands. He waited for water to pool, then raised it to drink.

Cool water glided down his parched gullet and he hummed in satisfaction as Luffy giggled.

“It feels even nicer inside!” Law choked, his sanctuary snapped in half as he looked back down on the snickering teen. “Besides, you don’t want to be stinky!”

Like you? Law thought with a scowl. Then he paused. That rancid, horrid smell seemed to have disappeared at some point. It was still there, vaguely, like a whisper in a library. Law wasn’t sure if he became nose blind to it or not. He took a deep inhale, closing his eyes to concentrate. Instead of that drenching dominating scent, there was something lighter. Almost good.

Law couldn’t quite place it. It wasn’t like food where a waft of it would make your mouth water. It wasn’t all sunflowers and tulips either, like a boutique or anything effeminate. It smelt familiar, yet not anything he could label. He could imagine a place he could smell it though. Somewhere in a bog, morning dew clinging to the patches of grass. The feeling of mud clinging to his shoes and a dinghy bobbing on mirror water. It’s light, but there’s no sun or stars, just mist. A light drizzle on his cheeks. It was a scent to fall asleep to, or the perfect one to be encompassed in while studying.

“Torao, get in! It’s weird to be the only one who wants to swim,” Luffy grumbled. Without warning, he turned and wrapped his arms around Law’s neck. Water rolled off Luffy’s arms and onto Law’s bare collarbones and he shivered. It was cold and enticing, but even more noticeable was the scent he was just detecting seemed to have come closer, it was as if it was right before him— Just as Law considered this discovery followed by Luffy’s closeness, Luffy gave a hard jerk and fell backward, dragging Law into the stream.

Law sputtered as he tried to rip the clinging hands off of him. It was too late as soon he was dunked completely underwater, his head knocking into Luffy’s chest before he used his hand fumbling with the rocks below to push himself up and take a ragged breath. Luffy chortled as if Law told the funniest joke he’s ever heard, curling forward to tuck Law closer to him until Law’s nose brushed his neck. He could feel the bouncy vibrations of his laughter against his skin, and suddenly that good scent was right in front of him. His hand tightened around the rock, his other curling insistently into Luffy’s arm as he pressed forward. Luffy smelt good.

“You are less mad than I thought,” Luffy said, amusement clear in his tone as he raked his fingers through Law’s short cropped hair like it was only natural between them. Law swallowed the growing lump in his throat. His hand squeezed Luffy’s wrist, but then he remembered himself and dropped his grip. Meeting Luffy’s gaze, he gently pulled himself away from the outstretched neck, finally assessing their position that Luffy seemed carefree of. He looked all too snug with his legs parted to accommodate Law, knees bent by Law’s hips and their groins aligned. He blinked up with a coy smile, like there was a secret dancing on his tongue that he wanted to keep back a while longer.

Law licked his lips, shifting on his hands. He turned his gaze to the dark water, uncertain of a hold to grab to help him up, but Luffy spoke and tore his attention away. “You know what Torao?”

He weaved his free hand under the water, then suddenly pushed himself up until their noses touched. Luffy’s eyes gazed into his own, sliding to a relaxed daze as if he already examined Law and knew whatever he wanted to know. “I think you like me more than you let on.”

Law glared down at him. The scent beckoned him, but he didn’t budge toward it. He kept his sights on the grinning alpha. “I met you today. I only know your name.”

“So?” Luffy tilted his head. “That doesn’t mean anything. Besides, I think I’m a good judge of character. I think you are a good person, and I like you… you like me… so let’s mate!”

“I don’t like you,” Law hissed in return. The air was knocked from his lungs soon after as the boy dropped back down into the water, his supporting hand instead snaking around and brushing Law’s crotch.

“You like something,” Luffy said, stifling a laugh. Law could feel warmth crawling up his cheeks as Luffy’s fingers spread, digging gently into the fabric of his shorts and feeling around lethargically. Law’s knee fell further to the side without the guidance of his thoughts; however, it barely mattered when the reward for the action was a firmer touch through the cloth. Law felt a growl building in his throat as he stared at the smaller man, unblinking as his pleasure-addled brain started making connections for him. None were in the realm of the past annoyance he had from the alpha following him around.

A distant call lulled him; it was much like the times he’d begin his rut during supply runs or how his senses would heighten during a fight with a fellow alpha. This didn’t bring the same aggression as the latter, but instead the coiling urge to shield something and bare his teeth.

It didn’t make sense.

That smell.

“You’re an alpha,” Law mumbled, ducking his head down for another quick breath in of that curious scent. “Why do you smell like that?”

“Uh, ‘cause I’m an omega?” Luffy craned his neck to the side and Law could feel it. That was where the delicate scent was emitting from, and the residue stench that followed him earlier was washed away. Law looked down at the water. Washed away. A different alpha had touched him. He felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand to attention, though he wasn’t sure if it was a result of the water chilling his bones or that snake squirming once again, wanting to strike out. Protect. Shield. Mine. His jaw twitched.

Luffy let out a groan. “Wait, don’t tell me– You smelt Ace on me? That- That’s my brother's scent. He was with my crew when they dropped me off here and Ace was hugging me while telling me about how I had to find a good alpha- whatever. It must have stuck on.”

It must have been intentional to stick on that long, Law thought wryly. A possessive older brother, worried about his kid brother going through his first run. Law knows the type. It’d be a hassle to deal with in the long run.

However, the gentle massage of Luffy’s fingers resuming their exploration made Law quickly dismiss the eventual headache he’d endure having to face the bullheaded nimrod. “Torao?”

“Luffy-ya.” The omega smiled.

“I’m still hungry.” With that, the hand withdrew and Law felt his teeth gnash without his command. Luffy stared, eyes capturing every movement, but the display did nothing to waive him or coax him back closer. “If you don’t have any place in mind, I wanna go back to the cave I found near the field. You can get me food while I nap. This whole ‘artificial heat’ pill business is sapping my energy.”

Right, Luffy mentioned earlier about being hungry. Why would an alpha have announced that the way Luffy had? Law couldn’t believe he had been fooled. Did he know subconsciously all along? Before, if Shachi would even dare defy his orders on anything when he was nearing rut, he’d have to go back and pick up the redhead wherever he dropped him off. He hadn’t been so cruel and proactive toward Luffy leaving. He closed his eyes tight. He didn’t understand, but now all he could think of was returning that pressure to his cock and getting food. What the fuck.

“Lead the way,” He grumbled, watching as Luffy stumbled back onto the creek edge, his clothes so plastered to his skin from the water drenching the material. Law could make out the tan of his skin beneath his shorts and had to suppress the urge to lean forward and bite or claw him back. His dick twitched as he gathered himself and also climbed out of the embankment.

Once he was on his feet, Luffy sent him a grateful smile. He took lead and began to weave them back through the trees like he was following a yarn strand. It was mirroring almost exactly their steps from before and it took Law moments to realize that Luffy was likely tracking something from earlier. He wondered if it was their scent from before– Though, Luffy just admitted to not being able to smell the thick Alpha pheromones he himself had been drenched in for who knows how long. So, in that case, it meant he was likely tracking Law’s scent back to the field. If that thought had Law’s inner alpha preening, he wouldn’t dare utter it. There was always studies saying that mates who liked and felt their partners scent strongly were most likely to be a successful pair– In all forms, like how many anniversaries they reach, how well they get along and make up after quarrels, and tidbits like how omegas tended to be more fertile in periods when they are surrounded by Alpha scents they enjoyed.

His cock twitched and as if Luffy sensed it, he turned and met Law’s eyes. He smiled, then turned back around without a word, without any comment or sly remark. Carried on his way. Law, like a shadow, trailed silently behind, paying no mind to the copulating couples they passed or the cries as omegas were cornered after a long chase. Law always thought in order to achieve an omega that he’d have to put in the work, learn the field and wear them down until they were submitting for him. Luffy saved him the trouble for the most part, but being so easy didn’t equal undesirability. Maybe on the streets Law would have turned his nose, but a simple whiff of his pheromones was enough.

When they reached the field, Law was digging his fingertips into his palm. The cave couldn’t be too far off, and then they’d be safe from the prying eyes of others and any alphas wanting to mount his mate. The thought had his jaw aching– He could feel an instinctual need to bite and claim. Fuck. He could feel sparks in his throat, ready to lash out at a moment's notice.

“Look!” Luffy cheered and Law’s heart thudded, his shoulders relaxing out of their tight coil with his possessive thoughts. Like a placating blanket draped over him, his lips twitched as he watched his omega excitedly bounce around their home for the moment, showing that he had taken time to clean the debris from the cave and pushed it far aside so they had room to stretch and build a fire. Law didn’t take any of the camp in, just Luffy’s glowing eyes and grin. “It’s spacious in there too, perfect ‘cause you are so dang tall.”

With that, Luffy crawled in through the hole and when he poked his eyes out, he was lower than before. It must be dug out from inside, Law reasoned as he stooped down and reached a hand out. Luffy swiped it, then tugged his wrist harshly, beckoning Law closer before placing his wrist to the raised scent glands on his neck. He nuzzled him with closed eyes and a hum on his lips.

For the better half of an hour, Law walked with an unrelenting hardness that was soon to be alleviated, and he wanted to sigh in relief as he stared at his omega taking in his scent. He placed a hand down by the side of the cave, leaning forward to join him, but a hand pressed to his chest stopped him.

“Nope.”

No? Law clicked his teeth, pressing firmly against the hand, but it didn’t budge. “Luffy-ya.”

“Do not use that tone with me.” Law froze. His eyes darted down to the hand, tanner than his own and even a starker contrast to his tattoos. “I told you what I want, and you will give it to me.”

If you’ll let me inside, Law thought with a grunt. Suddenly, his brain caught up with him. Luffy wasn’t referring to him. “You want me to go find food like this?”

“Yes, thanks! I’m gonna take a nap.” Law stared down at him incredulously. It took a minute for him to ease away, his instincts telling him to go deeper into that scent. Still, he sat back on his haunches, glaring down as his omega made himself at home, alone, rubbing his scent all along the cavern. Luffy pouted up at him, almost mockingly in Law’s opinion, but he was certain that was in his head. If anything, he could at least give him some ease before sending Law out to get food. Didn’t he eat this morning? What did he really expect of him?

“I’ll prep myself for when you get back.”

Alright, time to find food and fast. Law gathered himself and stalked off through the trees, annoyance on his tongue.

For the arena, there were many ways to provide for yourself and your mate. They’d be spending a few days out here doing what their ancestors did… with some modifications. For the event, you had to not only pin and claim your omega, but prove you could provide for them. As a result, there are many fruit trees scattered about, wild animals that didn’t have the desire to attack regular people who didn’t have devil fruit powers, and even safe bases where there were stocks of food— although, those were distributed and they only gave you a little. It was also not as impressive for your mate, and Law wasn’t going to bring back scraps for his darling.

And to hell he was caring about the rules right now. With no weapon, no traps, he was useless like he was unless he did use his power. He figured since he wasn’t trying to fight someone off or make someone submit then it was alright. It was an advantage, but one he had regardless. With a flick of his hand and a word, he replaced fruit off a high tree with a handful of leaves, cradling them in his arm. He almost wished he had asked Luffy for his shirt to make it easier to haul, but he was certain he’d end up pinning the cloth to a tree, rutting against the bark imagining it was a tight, warm heat to wrap his cock around.

He stopped by a running creek and ‘roomed’ up a handful of fish, which squirmed until he picked them up individually and made their end. Only once he had plenty of both did he follow Luffy’s scent back. With this, he’d have enough to keep his omega happy for at least a few days without it spoiling. He’d be able to keep him in the cave, happy as a lark and eager to return the gesture. Law licked his lips.

When he returned, Luffy didn’t greet him at the mouth of the cave. Law crept his way in, dropping the food at the entrance and watching it roll down the dirt slope to the floor where Luffy was curled up, napping. A tinge of disappointment hit him that his omega wasn’t naked, legs spread and fingers pressed in a weeping hole, but he could just as easily do it himself, or even lap up the sweet smell himself, burrowed between those plush thighs as Luffy ate, fruit juice running down his cheek as delectable as his slick.

Law sat down beside him, leaning against a dirt wall as he stared at his omega. As much as he wanted to fuck into him, punish him with a brutal pace for sending him away, there were many aspects of an alpha besides being a mindless, horny specimen. They were also protectors, caregivers in their own right, and Law couldn’t bring himself to wake the slumbering omega beside him.

Luckily, he didn’t have to wait too long before Luffy’s nose was twitching and he was pushing himself up. He looked out tiredly along the cave, sweeping right past Law and only pausing on the pile of food. “Oh, wow! Thanks, alpha.”

That word again. Law pursed his lips as his omega dug in, stuffing his face like he had been starving. Law would feel a little bad, but that feeling dissipated into awe as he noticed just how much the boy ate. He kept eating, uncaring of the pits or bones piling up. Law’s heart began to sink as Luffy dug into the last bit, a fruit, and seemed still unsatisfied. He’d likely be sent out to get some more. Even though he was one of the older participants, he never has spent a heat with an omega before— were they all so hungry? Is that the main reason they beg for alphas when their heat comes? He swallowed dryly as Luffy licked his fingers clean.

“So good,” Luffy moaned, wiping his hand clean on his shirt. “Hey, you’ll get some more later, right? Oh, can you find some red meat too? Or bread?”

Law’s nose crinkled with distaste and he shook his head. “I can get you food whenever you want.”

“Even now?” Dear God, please no.

“... I’ll be back in a bit.” Law sat up, but paused when Luffy shuffled to kneel right in front of him, his hands resting on Law’s knees to hold him in place.

“I was just teasing,” Luffy snickered. “You looked so funny the last time. Are you always so grumpy?”

Law rolled his eyes and leaned back against the dirt wall, his legs opening a little wider. The omega’s gaze flickered to the movement, his smile not fading as he crept closer, his hands sliding up to Law’s hips, then to his shoulders. His eyes appraised Law’s chest, marveling as he scooted closer until he was between Law’s legs on his knees, hovering inches from the alpha’s face. Law brought a hand up to brush a flake of dirt off his shoulder, then rubbed his thumb into the muscle, placing growing pressure on Luffy whose arm faltered under his ministrations. A smirk reached his lips upon seeing Luffy’s half-hooded eyes staring back at him, dazed slightly as the pills kept working their way through his system. Law had been in the same state for the past hour, but his interest hadn’t died. He twitched in his pants as Luffy drew closer and pressed a kiss to Law’s cheek, sliding further back until his lips brushed Law’s earrings.

“Alpha?” Luffy mumbled, his nose brushing against Law’s hair as he nuzzled close. Any seduction being mastered was drowned momentarily by Law’s internal cooing, wanting to swaddle the omega into his arms and allow him to scent Law uninterrupted, basking in the treatment of being wanted in such an intimate way.

The need to pound him into the dust was beginning to win over that other side of him again when Luffy’s hand traced along his chest. Despite the firm pressure of his hand, his voice faltered, cracking as he admitted in earnest, “I have no idea what I’m doing.”

Law huffed out an amused snort, then grabbed Luffy’s wrist. “Well, if you are done with doing as you please and sending me out, I’ll take it from here.”

“Going to take care of me now like a good alpha?” Luffy asked. Coming from anyone else, Law would have dismissed the tease, but seeing Luffy withdraw from his neck, cheeks flushed and tone more relaxed than before, Law knew Luffy had felt relief. Luffy drew his free hand back to rub the corner of his eyes. “How do you want me, Torao?”

“It’s Law.” After a moment of thought, he pushed himself up, letting go of Luffy’s wrist to not overwhelm his mate. His hand fell to Luffy’s knee and gave it a squeeze. His hand flattened, creeping to the inside of the man’s thigh to give another squeeze to the neglected area. Luffy’s cheeks turned pink, his hands curling in his lap as he watched Law’s hand. “What position would make you most comfortable?”

“Oh! Uh,” Luffy bit his cheek, head still bent to get a full view of Law’s fingers as they glided upward, stopping just at the cut of his white short, then trailing back down. “I don’t… I don’t really know..”

Luffy shifted on his knees, drawing back. One of his hands found the crook of his neck and he clamped on the skin, moving it back and forth under his neck. Law recognized the movement. He’d seen it before when he was in rut and being a dreadful companion, trying to gain an omega’s attention by being an asshole that his crew had to reel in. It was a gesture on Luffy’s part, a sign of distress and an attempt to disrupt the flow of his scent– albeit hopefully unintentional.

“You can just do whatever, I’ll be fine, just let me… know..” Luffy’s chuckles were like chattering teeth clicking and any of Law’s lingering annoyance was sapped up and taken far from their makeshift home.

Law tilted his head to the side in a gesture, but when it went unnoticed, he patted the spot beside him. “Sit against the wall.”

“Okey-dokey,” Luffy butted out before crawling to the wall where he plopped down quickly, bringing his knees to his chest. He stared at Law, chin tucked as the alpha took a seat beside him on the wall. He let his legs remain extended in front of him, hands to himself as Luffy regarded his position with an air of suspicion. “This is the least sexy position you could come up with.”

Law smiled to himself at the thought. “I was thinking we could just scent each other and doze.”

Luffy frowned cartoonishly, lines forming in his expression as he mumbled, “Why?”

It took Law at the best of times a few seconds to formulate a response, but Luffy wasn’t patient enough for it. In less than a blink of an eye, Luffy had jolted upright and now was leaning over Law again, hands finding places on his legs to hold himself up with. “No, just tell me what to do! I’ll do it!”

Law raised an eyebrow. “What are you going on about? Didn’t you want to rest?”

“I’m ready!” Luffy argued, cheeks puffed out like that would make Law change his mind. With a deft hand, Law took hold of his cheek and pulled the omega closer. He could see those black eyes widen, their conviction clearing to become something less cohesive, and then his face was eventually hidden from sight, nose pressed to Law’s neck. His hands eased as he took in a breath. Law slowly lugged the omega into his lap, draping his lithe legs over. He settled his hand on Luffy’s ass, hiking him up to lean against him and be snug. His other arm came around, wrapping around Luffy’s waist to keep him secure.

Luffy buried his head in Law’s neck. He shifted to get comfortable, then melted into Law’s chest. “I don’t need to be babied.”

“I wouldn’t do that,” Law lied. Luffy drew his fist up and punched Law's shoulder. It was like a feather brushing him. He smiled, resting his chin on top of Luffy’s messy hair. He tilted his head to rub his cheek in it. Soft.

Luffy tucked his knees up to bring his feet into Law’s lap too. “I know you don’t want this though. You wanna… do mate stuff now.”

Law had to admit that he had been thinking about it. He had followed Luffy in hopes of knotting him stupid less than an hour later, had retrieved food fast with the hope of filling Luffy up in more ways than one, and had a very prominent erection that Luffy must have been able to feel in his position— but he surmised that he enjoyed Luffy’s finger gently tracing through his tattoo on his chest more than watching Luffy’s stammering and retreating getting worse.

“My crewmate kept telling me what to do,” Luffy muttered, a pout reaching his lips as he ran the pad of his finger down and began drawing on Law’s skin with his fingernail, “You know, how to get a good alpha to make the heat hurt less and stuff… how I’m supposed to submit, be all nice…. Yeah.”

“You’ve been pretending things with me?”

“No.” Luffy pressed his nose into the junction of Law’s neck. “I meant everything, but I don’t think I can do it.”

Law’s eyebrow twitched at his partner’s vague woes. His arousal wept at the admission as well, but that was less pressing than the pouting, pitiful omega bundled in his arms. “Can’t do what, Lu-ya?”

“Like,” Luffy began, dragging his pointed toe across the dirt, “what I promised earlier. When you left, I tried to do it… then couldn’t.”

“I can’t read your mind. What did you try to do?”

Luffy held him closer, hiding his face. Law rubbed his back, licking his lips as he awaited the squeaked out response. “I tried to stretch myself out, but it wasn’t good enough.”

Law’s cheeks heated up at his admission. For lack of anything better to do, he pressed a kiss to the top of Luffy’s head. “Oh yeah? How did you do it?”

“With my fingers.” Luffy held up a quivering hand, showing Law his pointer finger, then soon joining it with his middle finger to show him. He moved his fingers, bending at the joint rhythmically before his hand faltered. “B-But I tried to stretch more with them, but it was uncomfortable.”

So Luffy was fucking himself on his fingers for Law while he was getting him food. With a staggered breath, Law’s grip tightened on the omega in his lap. It was unimaginable that either of them were going to leave this cave anytime soon. Even with Luffy’s concerns, Law was going to knot him before the end of this, especially since the omega had whispered his desire for him, how he tried to prepare himself for Law like a good little omega.

“Sweet thing,” Law crooned, pushing Luffy’s chin up to peck his lips. “You are a very good omega to your alpha. It makes me happy to know you wanted to please me.”

Luffy’s lip trembled against his, eyes staring at Law’s mouth. “It wasn’t good enough though.”

“Anything you did was good enough,” Law argued.

“No! You don’t get it.” Luffy pushed against Law’s chest. He wrestled in Law’s grip until the alpha released him with a grunt of disapproval. The smaller man straddled his lap this time, sitting back on his thigh as he leaned over, hands resting on Law’s shoulder. “I felt you in the creek, remember? You won’t fit inside me.”

And he thought he was being a bad omega, Law lamented as he pawed at Luffy’s thighs, trying to crawl him further up along his lap. He thought he wouldn't be able to please Law because he was smaller, and boy, that thought only served to rile Law up further. Luffy was a bit more than a head shorter than Law, and while he wasn’t curvy or squishy around any ends, he was muscular. That said, he wasn’t bulky like Law, but compact and everything Law had envisioned in a lover. Luffy was rather small, but would he be too small to sit on his cock? Doubtful. Law could make it work, would have to.

“The medication can only help you for so far; without an alpha, it would be hard to get yourself ready. Our scent helps. May I try?”

Luffy’s face turned bright red as Law’s thumbs rubbed into his skin, kneading him consistently to work through his tension. Luffy slumped against his chest, his rear pushing out slightly. “Whatever...”

Law pressed a kiss to his forehead before dipping his hand into Luffy’s thin shorts. He wasted no time following down until he felt the swell of Luffy’s balls, so small and tight against his intruding fingers before running back to find the dip of his hole. Luffy took a stuttering breath in, curling closer into Law’s lap. Though his fetal position didn’t help, at least his rear was exposed and Law’s limbs were long enough to dip his first knuckle of his pointer finger past the tight ring. Luffy’s hands twitched, then squirmed to hold Law’s neck and collarbone. Law kissed his temple as he moved his finger deeper, only pausing when Luffy’s breathing became more labored and quick.

He waited, moving his finger in slow fractions back and forth until Luffy’s nose was shoved to his scent glands and the omega was releasing his prior hold. Law gently scraped his finger forward, pressing backwards all the while in hopes of crossing a familiar bundle of nerves that’d make the omega putty in his lap. He had to pause before he got there: Luffy once again getting shoved too close to his end point.

All the while, Law’s cock was fuller than he ever felt before, including his past natural ruts where he’d terrorize unfortunate omegas with his overzealous confidence and large stature. Luffy’s soft whimpers were flooding his ear from where the omega curled against him and it was taking a lot more strength than Law thought he had to not simply force the omega down and shove his cock in Luffy’s tight entrance, pistoning straight into that squeezing womb. An alpha’s scent in rut did naturally coax an omega to produce more slick in anticipation for their coupling, one of those miracles of nature. Though he hadn’t read anything about an alpha’s precum inducing the omega to become wetter, it wasn’t a horrible thing to test. He’d hit Luffy’s prostate easier than finding it with his fingers, and Luffy wouldn’t be able to whine so much when he’s sitting, completely full and yet still begging for cum to stuff him.

It took Law a moment to realize that his fantasies had pulled him from reality and his hips had been unintentionally pistoning into the squirming omega on his lap. For what it was worth, Luffy was no longer moving from discomfort and seemed to be moving against Law’s fingers, two of which were now stuffed inside him up to the knuckle. His head was also thrown back, body fluid against Law’s as his smaller hips humped against the alpha like an untrained puppy.

Law’s teeth were holding Luffy’s throat before he even realized it, instinctually inclined to hold his mate down and force his knot inside. Luffy was ready now, right? Two fingers, soaked in his arousal, the little slut was practically begging for something bigger, something that can fill him with loads of cum.

Deciding to forgo any more time wasted, Law removed his fingers and patted Luffy’s ass, much to the omega’s protest though even that was downplayed by the younger man’s eagerly bucking hips. His eyes were fogged over with a haze of lust, tinting with confusion when Law released his bite. “Get on your hands and knees.”

Luffy ignored him, licking his lips as he chased the simulation of his clothed cock sliding along Law’s hip, rarely grazing Law’s own arousal. If it was more direct attempts to please the alpha, Law may have allowed for the omega’s pathetic movements to quell the burning, but since he wasn’t able to derive much pleasure from his omega as he was currently, Law pushed his shoulder harshly until Luffy fell back onto the dirty ground, hissing when his ass hit the floor.

“Torao!” Luffy yelped as he wiped his eyes, wetness building in the corners. Law got to his knees, joints protesting from their earlier position. It was horrible on his back to lean against the solid wall, but worth it to have Luffy comfortable and wet in his grasp. Now he needed something more.

“Be a good little omega and get on your hands and knees, Luffy-ya.” Law peeled back the band of the thin shorts he wore and Luffy’s eyes snapped to the movement, entranced before realizing that he was supposed to be behaving. With some reluctance, Luffy maneuvered onto his hands and knees, facing away from Law’s exposed cock as the fabric slid down to his knees, Luffy’s shorts being dragged down soon after. By not looking dead on, Law hoped that Luffy wouldn’t tense from nervousness seeing as his size initially scared the younger man. That, and Law’s heart thrummed for something more primal. The desperate taking and chasing of his hips into a presenting omega, wet and bared in front of him, eager to receive his seed.

If he had been a regular, meathead alpha with hormones taking the front seat, he’d already have pinned Luffy down the moment he saw him, ripping precious moans from those cute, smiling lips with sharp snaps of his hips. He’d have taken him in broad daylight like the alpha’s they had seen, eager to show off their catches and how drunk an omega could get on their cum-covered cocks, drilling deep inside them until something caught.

Law could barely remember that wretched scent that used to stain Luffy, thankfully. If only he wasn’t accompanied here by a protective older brother, Law could have been having his way with this lithe, toned body until his little pussy got sore and Law had to lavish it with his tongue to ease the burn.

The thought lingered in his mind as he approached his omega, trembling and waiting for him. He settled a sturdy hand on the small of Luffy’s back, pressing down to accentuate his curves. Luffy whined at the feeling, potentially from discomfort, but Law kept a steady hand there and the other one settled on the base of his cock. With a scoot forward, his tip brushed his omega’s pussy, coating the head with warm slick. Luffy stiffened beneath him and let out a staggering breath.

“I’ll be gentle, Luffy-ya. We can pause at any point,” Law cooed. He thought about his choice of words before he said anything: pausing was alright, but he wasn’t certain if he’d be able to grin and bear stopping completely. The longer he remained in Luffy’s orbit, the more his head swam and thoughts of their coupling felt more obsessive. He was going to be taking Luffy. He pressed the head of his cock against his hole, insistently nudging the tight entrance that tried to lean further away. “Big breath in, baby.”

Luffy sucked in until his cheeks were puffy. It was adorable; his reactions were priceless and Law just wanted to bundle him up for himself. He would. They had several days to never be apart, and Law was going to make good on that.

“And out, slowly,” He whispered against the shell of Luffy’s ear. He only started pushing with the intent to bury himself in Luffy right then. Once he heard the sound of air leaving the omega’s lungs, he pushed forward, snagging his head against his pert hole before shoving in. His jaw fell open in a groan upon being embraced by the suffocating warmth. With a minor adjustment, both his hands gripping Luffy’s hips, he shuffled his knees closer to Luffy’s calves, sinking more of his aching cock inside the tight sleeve welcoming him.

Luffy batted one of his hands blindly, tears spilling over as he hissed, “Stop it, Torao! Too- It’s too fast!”

Law looked down at their connection in a daze. He licked his lips, then bent down at his waist to kiss between Luffy’s shoulder blades. The omega ceased his attack when he felt it. Law grinned. “You are doing so well, my little omega. Half way.”

“It feels weird,” Luffy whined, his forehead knocking against the dirt ground as he bowed his head. “Stop pushing it in!”

Law blinked. He looked down between them, noticing more of his length had disappeared within his squirming mate. He was deep enough, he rationalized with a frown. His angle had to be wrong. He leaned back on his haunches, pulling just a few inches out before pushing back in roughly the same amount as before. Luffy grunted. “Torao, nooo. Stop it.”

“Give me a second,” Law muttered as he blindly scraped a hand along Luffy’s stomach and down just over his cock. He pushed upward with a gentle hand and Luffy squeaked. “How did that feel?”

Luffy didn’t answer. Law could feel his strains to follow Law’s maniable hands, and he appreciated the effort. He sunk further in, his grip tightening on the boy to hold him still as he shuddered. Luffy let out a breathy noise, light and plucky in Law’s ears as his hips met Luffy’s butt. The omega eased, leaning back against Law and settling into the hand tucked beneath him. Law kissed his spine. “Better, Luffy-ya?”

“Better,” Luffy grumbled. Law nipped his skin.

“What’s wrong?” He rocked against the omega, who huffed in return.

“You are an asshole.” Luffy wiggled his hips, testing out a new angle. “A big, stupid alpha.”

“Here– I’m going to help flip you to sit in my lap, alright?” Law grunted as he hugged around the omega’s waist. Luffy flared his nostrils as he was plucked up, them still connected at their most vulnerable. Still, he helped Law by turning himself, throwing his leg over to effectively straddle his mate. Without a moment of hesitation, he leaned in and sunk his teeth into the juncture of Law’s neck and shoulder. “Fuck, Luffy-ya!”

“You’re an asshole!” Luffy repeated through the chunk of flesh he had trapped. He sank down, taking Law’s cock back inside of his pulsing hole all the way. Law’s complaints died when the omega moaned. Disappointment was evident to Law, who wanted to fuck him into the floor, but he couldn’t remain upset when his omega found preference in seating on top of him. He had already begun to lightly bounce himself, exploring as his teeth burrowed into Law’s sweat-sheened skin. Law sighed through his nose, bracing himself with his heels digging into the dirt before he began to thrust up.

Luffy’s arms found his neck, holding him tight as he released his teeth from Law, much to the alpha’s relief. He didn’t want to look half-mauled by the time they left. Luffy rested his forehead on Law’s shoulder, the soft pants from the boy hitting his shoulder as they moved together, grinding and bobbing along.

“Ah… ahhh,” Luffy uttered, his hole squeezing around Law in his thrust out. Law kissed his temple. “Um, right there. Do it again. Just like that.”

Law tried again and was met with a sweeter moan and his omega drawing closer to him. He licked Law’s cheek, then extended his arms. Law gnashed his teeth the moment he felt fingernails biting into his skin. “Oi!”

“You are still an asshole,” Luffy remarked matter-of-factly, “I’m still gonna leave you marks. Then when people see you, they’ll know you were mean to me.”

“I hardly doubt that’s where their minds will go, idiot,” Law shot back, wincing when the omega’s claws scratched harder. It became apparent that arguing wasn’t the best way to go. His cock was still quite happy inside of Luffy, not softening even under the pain the omega put him through. If anything, he felt himself twitching.

Hugging Luffy close, he resumed his thrusting. Once he found that angle that made Luffy choke and sing his pleasure, he drove into that particular spot with devotion. Luffy’s hands fumbled on his back, slipping every so often as he closed his eyes, rolling his hips down on Law’s. Their pace wasn’t matched— it was a bit messy, but Law found himself easily lost in the frantic coupling and the scrape of fingernails on his skin.

Upon accepting Luffy was far from retreating, Law snaked one of his hands to Luffy’s front. He found his smaller, bouncing member, then dipped down to coat his fingers in their exchanged fluids. When his fingers felt sticky, he drew them back and wrapped them around the eagerly waiting cock. It wept a dollop of precum onto his knuckles in appreciation as he began to pump Luffy.

The slick, wet noises of their joining echoed throughout the confines of the cave, splashing their ears with the explicit sounds made beyond their groans and hums. If Law was in more of his usual mind, he’d have blushed, tuned it down, or maybe not even have been seduced and dragged into a hole in the ground, but he couldn’t deny the satisfaction he held watching his omega move up and down, lips parted as he drove Law’s cock deep inside with each fall, once again using Law like he was meant to be used. Any praise Law had died on his throat as his eyes rolled back. He felt himself twitch inside the heat, then a wave washed over him.

Luffy purred, a wonky smile crossing his blissful expression as he felt Law shoot ropes of cum straight into him, Luffy’s rocking dragging his seed deeper in. With a breathless giggle, Luffy squeezed down onto Law, a whimper leaving his throat when Law’s hand tightened, sloppily continuing on until the omega tensed and came on his chest and hand. His nails felt blunt on his skin as the omega relaxed in his grasp. He sank, leaning against Law with a shudder.

Law squeezed him once before lifting him just enough to pull out, his dick aching the more he rested inside Luffy, who constricted tighter since he himself came. Luffy hit his chest the moment he slipped out, a weak protest followed by a whine as streaks of frothy cum dripped from his hole. Law nestled against his head. “Give me a moment. Don’t worry, you’ll have your fill, my little omega.”

Law walked off the field with a limp in his step and more bags under his eyes than could be counted. Racing ahead of him was Luffy, who looked back on occasion to yell a mark about his ‘old man alpha’ before darting around to find his friends and brother. Law kept an eye out for his crew, but admittedly didn’t try too hard. They’d learn about his mate soon enough since Luffy would be joining them on a Tang and preventing any further issues that used to result in Law’s unmanaged aggression when in rut. Hell, if this week had anything to say for how their life would be together, Law would be too exhausted taking care of him to ever raise his voice to Shachi again.

“Woah, look at you buddy!” Speak of the devil. Law turned to see Shachi and Penguin jogging up, both looking thoroughly ravished over the past few days. He gave them a nod as one handed him a shirt to tug over, his previous one left behind due to the amount of stains they collected over their near constant intercourse. “You look like you got mauled! Your back, man!”

“I found an absolute brat,” Law snapped, throwing the garment on.

Penguin grimaced. “Oh, I’m sorry. Maybe you’ll have better luck next year?”

“No, I mated the guy.”

The two crew members exchanged a puzzled look, then shrugged. “Good for you, then!”

“TO-RA-O!” Luffy screeched somewhere over Law’s shoulder. Before he could turn around, he felt a hug from behind and sighed as Penguin and Shachi eagerly looked around to get a spot of the one their captain decided to take. They both keened upon seeing his sunny smile. “I want to introduce you to my brother before he goes! And then you can meet the others!”

“We’ve got all the time we need, Luffy-ya,” Law mumbled, patting one of the hands around his waist.

“I know, but Ace never sticks around long.” Luffy bent, stretching impossibly over to catch Law’s eyes. “But you are gonna love everyone else! I’ll have Sanji cook us a huge feast, Franky can show you all the cool gadgets we have– I’ll ask Nami to help me get the captain’s quarters ready. I don’t like using it, but I wanna make sure we have a space for just us on the ship! So we can do fun stuff.”

Law gripped Luffy’s hand, his jaw twitching. He blinked, taking in the others ramble before offering him a polite, ghost of a smile. “Luffy-ya, I already cleared the space for you on my ship. You’ll have plenty of room for anything you’d want to bring, but we are leaving tomorrow morning.”

Luffy furrowed his brow. He pouted. “Hey, it’s my ship.”

“No, it’s not,” Law reaffirmed. Penguin and Shachi took a step back, observing them with concern. It’s no problem, Law thought. It’s as he said, Luffy is a brat who needs to be set into his place. Law had attempted that multiple times over their week together and it never ended as he would have liked— Luffy really wasn’t a submissive thing. That said, he was the alpha. He had to reign him in, or at least lean into his natural tendencies. Omega’s liked that. His crew expected it. “You will like it. I’ll meet your friends, then take you on a tour. It’s an interesting vessel that submerges completely in the water. I can show you the fish and coral reefs surrounding the island. How does that sound?”

“Not good at all,” Luffy replied with a quirked brow. He tilted his head. “I mean, you can show me the fish or whatever, but then you are coming back to my ship, right?”

Law pursed his lips. “Ah, you work on a ship? Luffy-ya, I’m telling you you can come aboard mine. You’ll prefer it.”

“No, I’m a captain, dummy.”

Law stared at him. Luffy pulled away from him, wrenching his hand from the alpha’s squeeze. He walked around to face Law fully. “A captain.”

“Yup!” Luffy chuckled. “And I’m going to be king of the pirates once I find the one piece.”

Law didn’t know he could feel his heart sink, but this foreign sensation in his chest was what he imagined it to feel like. A frown settled on his lips as he looked at his omega, the one meant to stay by his side, looking up at him with a proud twinkle in his dark eyes, a self assured smile on his lips. How typical, Law thought bitterly. To lose something before ever obtaining it.

“You think so, huh.” Law steeled himself, staring down his mate with a critical glare. “That same treasure you covet is my goal, and I will find it. I hope when I do, you fall into subordination.”

Luffy grinned, his eyes returning the challenging glint. “You’ll get far, Torao. I know you will, but I’ll win. I’ll make room on my ship for you in the meantime.”

Law laughed. “Don’t hold your breath.”