Chapter Text
“Hey kid.”
Ace was not entirely surprised Shanks had approached him. But he was somewhat baffled by the other’s demeanor. He could not help flicking a glance at the mug in the redhead’s hand. Was Shanks drunk? Like drunk drunk, not just tipsy.
Seeing the look, Shanks laughed quietly. “It is just coffee.” Contrary to popular belief, he did not subsist solely on alcohol. Folding his feet under him, the pirate sat down next to the smaller figure. “I need to speak to you Ace,” he said seriously.
Silver eyes turned wary. “About what?”
Shanks was silent for a long moment. Truthfully, he found himself wishing for some rum, even though he knew better. “By this time,” he said softly. “I hope you know Roger was not a monster.” He took another sip of the coffee. “But even if he was Ace, it wouldn’t matter.”
Ace was confused. What?
“And I would know,” Shanks went on. “Because the man whose blood flows through my veins is a monster.”
What?
“I don’t make a habit of telling this story,” Shanks admitted, grip tightening on the mug. “And I would appreciate it if you did not spread it around.”
Somewhat woodenly Ace nodded in agreement, still somewhat in shock.
“I was born on an island that no longer exists,” Shanks shared. “I don’t know much about my Mother. Well,” his lips quirked slightly before flattening back out. “Other than that she had bright red hair. I don’t know how she met that bastard either, only I presume that he said and did all the right things until he had what he wanted.” It was somewhat hard to imagine that Garling was capable of being charming. Even if it had all been an act. But the other option was worse.
“So he just left?” Ace ventured. He was young, but not so young he did not understand some men were assholes.
“If only,” Shanks' eyes were dark. “No, he came back when w-I” Shanks seemed to stutter. “When I was about on solid food. Not only did he murder my Mother, but he brought all of his friends along.” Shanks’ expression held absolutely no humor. “It was a game you see. They assigned all the people on the island points and then hunted them like animals.”
Ace went dead white. “That, that’s sick.”
“Mmm.” Power flashed in Shanks’ eyes briefly turning them red. “I agree, and I thank the seas everyday I was not raised by that man.” He turned to meet Ace’s eyes. “But that does not change the fact I am the son of a monster.”
“That,” Ace stuttered. “You’re not.” Shanks was kind. Shanks wasn’t. . .
Whatever Shanks was looking for on Ace’s face, he found it. Nodding in satisfaction. “So tell me Ace,” he said as he stood. “If I was not born a monster, why would you be?”