Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The rain lashed against the rugged coastline, carried sideways by a brutal wind that howled like a mourning beast.

Inside the hollow of a damp cave, four figures huddled in the flickering glow of a makeshift fire they managed to light.

Bepo, Shachi, and Penguin moved around the small space, trying to clean and dress the wounds they had accumulated from yet another battle with the Marines.

But the worst wasn’t among the three. Trafalgar Law, a fifteen-year-old boy with a haunted past, sat with his back against the damp rock wall, his body tense and exhausted.

He winced as he adjusted his position, blood seeping through the makeshift bandages covering his arms and torso.

His friends hovered close by, concern etched into their faces. They had been through countless skirmishes together and while they were no strangers to injuries, the weight of their captain’s current state weighed heavily on them. 

Law had taken the brunt of the damage again, throwing himself into the fray to protect them, knowing full well that he was the target. The Marines weren’t after them, they wanted him.

They wanted Trafalgar Law, the snow leopard hybrid.

It had started as a simple mission.

A minor conflict with a group of Marines who had been tracking them, because they are new pirates in the North Blue that were slowly making a name for themselves. Law had planned to take them down quickly.

He had fought valiantly, as always, but his previous obtained injuries had pushed him to the brink. In his weakened state, the snow leopard traits he had suppressed for years - the sharp claws, tufted ears, and a long, spotted tail - had emerged.

The sight had stunned the Marines into silence, their shock quickly giving way to glee at the prospect of capturing such a rare hybrid - a rarity in the world, a rarity so valuable and dangerous that it made him a prime target.

The shock didn’t last long, and within hours, the story had spread across the seas, headlining the next day’s newspapers.

Trafalgar Law was no longer just a rookie pirate with a grudge against the government. He was now something to be hunted, a prize for those who would seek to claim him, whether for experimentation or exploitation.

It wasn’t supposed to be like this. Law cursed himself for his failure.

Being a hybrid, especially one as rare as a snow leopard painted an even bigger target on his back.

“Captain,” Shachi’s voice broke through Law’s dark thoughts. “You need to rest. You’re still bleeding.”

Law’s sharp amber eyes flicked to his friend, the weight of responsibility pressing down on him. He knew he should rest, but he couldn’t afford to show any more weakness.

Not when they were still being hunted.

Not when his hybrid nature was out there for everyone to see.

His snow leopard ears twitched in agitation, a physical betrayal of his inner turmoil and his tail, matted with blood, lay limp at his side.

“I’m fine,” Law muttered, though his voice lacked its usual edge. “Just focus on your own wounds.”

With a heavy sigh, Law leaned his head back against the cave wall, the exhaustion settling deep into his bones. His tail twitched, curling slightly in a gesture of defeat.

“I just… I just want it all to stop,” he whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of the storm outside. “I didn’t ask for this.”

As Law’s vision began to blur from exhaustion, his thoughts drifted to the life he had once dreamed of. He had wanted to live freely, to sail the seas and find a place where he could just be without constantly fighting for survival. 

But that dream had been ripped away from him when the government took his family, when Doflamingo had stolen the one person who believed in him. Now, his life was nothing but revenge and survival.

He closed his eyes, his body finally giving in to the overwhelming fatigue, and passed out.

Worried but beaten themselves, the three had done everything they could to help him, but the truth was stark: Law had taken the brunt of the fight, protecting them as the Marines singled him out, again.

It had become a grim routine in the past few months, ever since the world had learned of his hybrid nature.

Bepo, Shachi and Penguin exchanged worried glances. They had seen their captain frustrated and angry before, but this was different.

Law rarely showed his vulnerability, even to them. But now, in this quiet moment, it was clear that the weight of everything - his past, his hybrid nature, the constant battles - was taking its toll.

Bepo sat beside Law, his fur soaked from the rain but his worry far greater than any discomfort he felt. “He’s still breathing,” Bepo murmured, his voice thick with concern as he gently checked the bandages he’d applied to Law’s worst wounds.

Shachi and Penguin exchanged uneasy glances.

“He shouldn’t have taken all those hits,” Penguin muttered, his hand clenching into a fist. “He was the target, and he knew it. But he still stepped in front of us every time.”

“He always does,” Shachi replied softly. “You know he thinks it’s his job to protect us.”

Penguin, sitting cross-legged by the fire, grumbled, "We should’ve left that last fight sooner. Those Marines were gunning for him like he was some kind of prize."

Silence settled over the group as they continued their work, doing everything they could to stabilize their captain.

Despite being only fifteen, Law carried the weight of someone far older. His desire for revenge drove him, but underneath the hatred, there was something else - a deep longing for freedom.

A part of him that didn’t want to be consumed by anger and the need to settle old scores. But life hadn’t given him that choice.

Everything had been taken from him and now, as a rare snow leopard hybrid, his very existence painted a target on his back.

Law told his friends time and time again that they didn’t have to follow him into this chaos, that they could leave him and live safer lives. 

But they had refused every time. They weren’t just his crew - they were his family, and no matter how much he tried to push them away, they stayed.

Penguin, Shachi and Bepo wouldn’t leave him, never, they were all lost, outcasts, but somehow found each other.

Law was family to all of them and they wouldn’t dare to abandon him now when he had an even larger target on him.

“I don’t know how much longer we can keep doing this,” Shachi finally said, his voice quiet as he looked at Law’s unconscious form.

“He’s strong, but… this is killing him.”

“Captain will pull through,” Bepo insisted, but even he couldn’t fully hide the worry in his voice. “He always does…”

Penguin sighed, glancing toward the cave’s entrance as the storm raged outside. “We need to find a way out of this mess. We can’t keep running forever.”

Unbeknownst to them, help - or something close to it - was on the way.

Meanwhile, aboard the Red Force, the ship swayed with the rhythm of the storm. Shanks stood at the prow, the rain soaking his hair and dripping from his coat. 

His usual carefree demeanor was absent, replaced by a deep furrow in his brow.

Benn Beckman, his husband and first mate, approached quietly, carrying two mugs of sake.

“You’ve been brooding.” Benn said, handing Shanks a mug.

Shanks sighed, taking a sip. "It’s hard not to, Benn. That boy, he’s just a kid. A hybrid. And the world already has its claws in him."

When Law’s hybrid nature had been revealed, Shanks’ couldn’t ignore it. The world was a cruel place for hybrids - hunted, exploited and feared.

For a fifteen year old boy to be both a pirate captain and a hybrid made him a target in more ways than one. 

And now, with the news spreading about Law, it was clear that the Marines weren’t going to stop until they had him.

Shanks didn’t want to stand by, to say he was worried was an understatement, Benn often had to calm Shanks down and prevent him from acting rash or just rushing towards Law’s last known location.

Benn leaned against the railing, his calm gray eyes meeting Shanks’. "We’ve seen kids like him before. Scrappy, smart, and carrying the weight of the world. But this one’s different, isn’t he?"

Shanks nodded. "Yeah. There’s something about him. I’ve been hearing his name since he started causing a stir in the North Blue. And now, with his hybrid nature revealed, the whole world knows what he is.

That makes him a target for every bounty hunter, Marine and pirate looking to make a name for themselves. That’s not the kind of life a kid should be living.”

Benn placed a reassuring hand on Shanks’ shoulder. "We’ll find him. And when we do, we’ll figure out how to help."

Shanks smiled faintly, grateful for Benn’s presence.

By the time the Red Force arrived near the cliffs, the storm had started to subside, leaving the landscape wet and treacherous. 

They found the cave easily enough - the flicker of firelight giving it away.

Shanks and Benn entered cautiously, their presence filling the space with quiet authority. Lucky Roux, standing at the entrance, gave them a reassuring nod before taking up watch outside.

Shanks squinted through the rain, his sharp eyes picking out the small crew huddled further inside. “They look rough.”

“Especially the kid,” Benn added. “He’s taken a lot of damage.”

Shanks’ brow furrowed in concern. “I’ve been hearing a lot about him. Young, dangerous, determined. But this…” He shook his head. “He’s just a kid. A hybrid, no less. The world’s going to eat him alive if he keeps going like this.”

Benn squeezed Shanks’ hand.

“Seems like he’s halfway there already,” Benn remarked, though his tone wasn’t unsympathetic. “Are we going to step in?”

Shanks nodded, his decision made. “Let’s go meet him. We’ll see where this takes us.”

Bepo was the first to notice their presence, his keen senses picking up the sound of footsteps over the storm.

“Someone’s coming!” Bepo whispered, standing up quickly. Shachi and Penguin followed suit, moving to shield Law as best as they could, even though they were in no condition to fight.

“Relax,” Shanks said, holding up his hands in a non-threatening gesture. “We’re not here to fight. We just want to talk.”

Shachi and Penguin exchanged wary glances, but it was Bepo who spoke. “Who are you?”

“I’m Shanks,” the red-haired man replied with a soft smile. “Captain of the Red Hair Pirates and this is Benn Beckmann, my first mate.”

The names sent a jolt of recognition through the group.

The man was a Yonko, one of the most powerful pirates in the world.

“What do you want with us?” Penguin asked, his voice tight with suspicion.

Shanks’ smile faded slightly, replaced by a more serious expression.

“We’ve heard about Trafalgar Law. We’ve heard about what you all have been through, and about his… situation.” His eyes flicked to Law’s exposed ears and tail. “I wanted to see him for myself. See what kind of person he is.”

Bepo’s gaze hardened. “If you’re here to hurt him, we won’t let you!”

Shanks raised his hands again in a placating gesture. “We are not here to hurt him. Quite the opposite. We are here because we want to help.”

The words hung in the air for a moment, disbelief clear on the faces of Law’s little crew. Help? From a Yonko?

“Why would you help us?” Penguin asked, his voice edged with suspicion. “We’re not exactly your problem.”

Shanks smiled gently, his gaze drifting to the unconscious boy on the ground. “A fifteen-year-old boy, a hybrid, leading a crew, being hunted by the world… That’s a lot for anyone to handle, let alone a kid.”

“Sometimes you see someone and know they need help, whether they ask for it or not.”

Benn Beckman, who had been quietly observing the situation, finally spoke. “You are a good crew and good friends to your captain,” he said. “But you’re not going to last long if things keep going the way they are, you are just kids yourself.”

Bepo, Shachi, and Penguin didn’t say anything, but the truth of Shanks’ and Benn’s words was undeniable. They had been running, fighting, and surviving on sheer willpower, but it was wearing them all down - especially Law.

“We don’t need your help,” Penguin finally muttered, though his voice lacked conviction. “We can take care of ourselves.”

“I don’t doubt that,” Shanks replied with a small smile. “But sometimes, it’s okay to accept a little help.”

He crouched down beside Law, his expression softening even further as he looked at the boy’s pale face.

“This kid’s been through hell, hasn’t he?”

Bepo nodded slowly. “Yeah… He has.”

Shanks reached out gently, brushing a strand of hair away from Law’s forehead. “You’re strong. But you don’t have to carry all of this on your own.” He glanced back at Benn, who gave him a small nod.

“We’re going to take you to our ship,” Shanks said firmly. “Get him treated, get all of you treated. And then… we will see where things go from there.”

The three kids hesitated, their loyalty to their captain battling with the undeniable truth that they needed help.

Finally, after a long pause, Bepo spoke.

“Okay,” he said softly. “Help him. Please”

Shanks nodded, his expression determined. “We will” He stood, gently lifting Law into his arms (yes he still has both here), careful not to jostle the wounds that covered the boy’s body.

Law was lighter than Shanks had expected, the weight of his frame betraying the immense burden he carried on his young shoulder.

Shanks could feel the tension in his muscles, even in unconsciousness and it struck him how much the boy must have been holding back to protect not just himself, but his friends.

“We’ll take care of him,” Shanks said softly, as he cradled the injured boy. “And we’ll take care of you too.”

Bepo, Shachi, and Penguin stood frozen for a moment, watching as Shanks carried their captain out into the already fading storm.

They exchanged uncertain glances, still wary of trusting a Yonko, but they knew deep down they had little choice. Their captain was in no condition to fight, and neither were they.

Benn gestured for the boys to follow. “Let’s go. We’ve got a medic on board who’ll take care of you all.”

As they stepped out into the soft rain, the storm seemed to ease up, almost as if the island was acknowledging their decision.

The rest of the Red-Hair Pirates were waiting at the shore, their ship anchored just off the coast, its sails billowing gently in the calm wind.

Despite their imposing presence, Shanks’s crew greeted them with friendly, open expressions, offering help and guiding them toward the ship.

Shanks moved quickly and carefully, bringing Law onto his ship and laying him down in the infirmary.

Hongo, the ship’s medic, got to work immediately, tending to Law’s wounds with the practiced efficiency of someone who had seen more than his fair share of injuries.

Bepo, Shachi and Penguin hovered nearby, their concern evident in their tense postures.

Shanks stood off to the side leaning slightly against Benn, his arms crossed as he watched Hongo work. Benn laid one hand on Shanks shoulder while observing quietly.

“You’ve got quite the strong captain there,” Hongo said, glancing up at Bepo and the others. “Took a lot of hits, but he’s tough. He’ll pull through.”

Bepo let out a small sigh of relief, his shoulders slumping slightly.

“Thank you.” he said quietly, his voice filled with gratitude.

“Don’t thank us just yet,” Shanks interjected, his gaze focused on Law.

“The hard part’s still ahead, besides now it’s your turn for treatment.”

Chapter Text

Hours passed before Law finally began to stir. His body ached, his head felt heavy, a disorienting haze clouded his thoughts. The last thing he remembered was the fight with the Marines and the wet cave they hid in.

His instincts kicked in immediately and he jolted upright, wincing as pain shot through his torso and head, his hands instinctively reaching for his ears, which were fully exposed. 

Before he could scramble to his feet, a strong but gentle hand pushed him back down onto the bed. Law’s eyes widened, his heart pounding. Without thinking, his claws shot out, digging into the arm that felt like restraints to him. 

“Easy there kid,” Shanks said in a calm voice. “You’re not in any condition to be moving yet. You’re safe here.”

Law’s golden eyes darted upward, locking onto the face of a man with striking red hair. 

Law’s mind raced. Shanks? The Yonko? What’s going on? Where am I? 

His breath quickened as he tried to push himself up again, but his body betrayed him, too weak to cooperate.

He let his eyes dart around the unfamiliar room, spotting Bepo, Shachi and Penguin nearby. They looked relieved and worried, but something was different. They weren’t on their own ship.

Shanks didn’t flinch at the claws embedded in his arm. Instead, he chuckled softly, his free hand coming up in a gesture of peace. “You’ve got quite the grip there, kid. But maybe let go before you hurt yourself, yeah?”

Law’s claws retracted hesitantly, his hands trembled as he pulled them back to his lap, curling into fists to stop them from shaking. Only then did he notice the blood dripping from Shanks’ arm and a pang of guilt flickered in his chest.

“Where…?” Law began, his voice raspy from disuse.

“You’re on my ship,” Shanks explained, stepping back slightly to give Law some space. “We found you and your friends during the storm. You were pretty banged up, so we brought you here to get treated.”

Law’s heart continued to race, but the words began to sink in. They… saved us?

His hybrid ears twitched in agitation, and his tail, which had fallen limply by his side, flicked weakly. He hated being vulnerable like this, especially in front of strangers - especially in front of someone like Shanks. A Yonko. A legend.

And here he was, barely able to sit up.

“Why?” Law finally asked, his voice hoarse but laced with suspicion. “Why help us?”

Shanks shrugged, his expression softening.

“Because I wanted to. You’re just a kid, Law. You’ve been through a lot, and the world hasn’t exactly been kind to you. I’ve got no interest in capturing you or taking advantage of you. I just figured you could use a break.”

Law’s eyes narrowed. He didn’t trust easily, and the idea of someone like Shanks wanting to help him with no ulterior motive seemed… impossible. The world didn’t work that way, not for him.

But before he could argue, Shanks added, “You remind me of someone I knew. Someone who was fighting a battle much bigger than himself, just like you.”

Law’s chest tightened, old wounds reopening in his heart as he thought about all those battles he had to fight, beginning with the massacre on Flevance.

Just then, Benn Beckman entered the room. The sight that greeted him - Law pale and trembling, Shanks’ arm scratched but steady - made him pause. His sharp eyes softened, and he stepped forward slowly, careful not to alarm the boy further.

“Everything alright here?” Benn asked, his voice low and even.

“Yeah,” Shanks replied, glancing at his arm. “Just a little misunderstanding.”

Benn opened a small medkit and gestured for Shanks to sit. As he began cleaning the scratches, Benn looked at Law, who was still tense, his tail twitching nervously.

“You don’t have to be afraid of us,” Benn said, his tone gentle but firm. “We’re not here to hurt you or your friends.”

Shanks seemed to sense the shift in Law’s mood, his eyes softening even further.

“Look, we're not here to pressure you into anything. You’re free to leave whenever you want. But for now, you and your friends need to rest. You’re not alone in this, Law. You’ve got people who care about you and people who want to help.”

Law looked away, his jaw clenched tightly. The emotions swirling inside him were too much - anger, frustration, grief and something else he hadn’t felt in a long time: vulnerability. 

Law found himself wondering why these people, why Shanks and his first mate, cared. He had been hunted for so long, treated like a weapon, a prize, or an enemy.

But Shanks and Benn Beckmann didn’t look at him that way. There was something different in their eyes. Something Law hadn’t seen in a long time.

Compassion.

“I didn’t ask for your help,” Law snapped, his voice hoarse.

“No, but your crew needed it,” Benn said calmly. “And from the looks of things, so did you.”

“Kid, you’re fifteen at best,” Shanks said, his tone serious. “You shouldn’t be fighting battles like this on your own. And now, with your hybrid nature out in the open, you’re a bigger target than ever.”

Law’s jaw tightened. “I don’t need your pity.”

“It’s not pity,” Benn cut in, lighting a cigarette as he leaned against the wall. “It’s concern. You’re strong, but even the strongest need allies.”

Law glared at him, his tail twitching in irritation. He hated how exposed he felt, his hybrid features laid bare for all to see.

And now, with his crew, Shanks and Benn standing right there, watching him, he felt extremely exposed.

“You don’t have to decide anything right now,” Shanks said quietly.

“Just rest, we’ll talk later.”

With that, Shanks turned and left the room with Benn close behind, leaving Law and his friends alone.

Bepo was the first to speak. “Captain… are you okay?”

Law’s throat tightened and he couldn’t bring himself to answer right away.

He wasn’t okay, but he didn’t know how to say that. He didn’t know how to let anyone see how scared he really was.

“I’m fine.” he finally muttered, though the words felt hollow even to him.

Shachi and Penguin exchanged a look, but they didn’t push him.

They knew better than to force Law to talk when he wasn’t ready.

“We’re safe for now,” Penguin said, trying to reassure him. “And that guy, Shanks, he seems… okay.”

Law didn’t respond, his mind still racing. He didn’t know what to think about Shanks or his crew yet.

All he knew was that, for now, they weren’t running, weren’t fighting. But that didn’t mean he could let his guard down. Not yet.

Days passed, and Law slowly began to recover, his wounds healing under the care of Shanks’ crew. Despite his initial distrust, he couldn’t deny that they were treating him and his crew with kindness.

No one tried to take advantage of him or exploit his hybrid nature. It was strange, unsettling even, to be treated like a normal person.

Shanks didn’t hover, but he made sure to check in on Law regularly. He treated him not as a captain or a hybrid, but as a fifteen year old boy who had been through hell. 

He found  comfort in watching when Shanks and Benn interacted with their crew, the love and trust they shared evident in every glance and touch. And as the days went on, Law found himself growing more conflicted.

He was still determined to get his revenge, to make the government pay for what they had done to him and his family. But the idea of being able to live freely, to not be hunted or feared, lingered in the back of his mind.

One evening as the sun began to set, Shanks found Law standing on the deck, staring out at the horizon. His ears twitched at the sound of footsteps behind him, but he didn’t turn around.

“You’re thinking about leaving, aren’t you?” Shanks asked, leaning against the railing beside Law.

Law’s jaw tightened. “I have to.”

Shanks nodded. “I figured as much. You’ve got unfinished business.”

Silence stretched between them for a moment before Shanks spoke again. “Just… remember that you don’t have to do it all alone.”

Law’s grip on the railing tightened. He didn’t know how to respond to that. He had been alone for so long, even with his crew by his side. The idea of relying on someone else, of trusting someone… It scared him.

Shanks smiled gently, sensing Law’s hesitation. “You’ve got a strong crew. And if you ever need more help… don’t hesitate to ask us okay.”

Law glanced at Shanks, his eyes conflicted. He didn’t know what the future held, but he felt like maybe, just maybe, there was a path forward that didn’t involve being consumed by anger and revenge.

But for now, revenge was all he knew.

Without another word, Law turned away, his ears twitching as his tail flicked behind him. There was still so much he needed to do. So many battles ahead.

As he walked away, he couldn’t shake the feeling that things were about to change, whether he liked it or not.

The deck of the Red Force was quiet that night, the hum of the sea a soothing backdrop as the ship gently rocked on the waves.

Shanks and Benn sat side by side, sharing a bottle of sake while enjoying the cool night alone on deck.

The stars above seemed endless, scattered across the dark sky like tiny fragments of light. A comfortable silence settled between them, broken only by the occasional clink of the sake bottle as they passed it back and forth.

Benn took a sip, his sharp eyes glancing at Shanks. His husband seemed unusually contemplative, the playful grin that usually graced his features replaced by a rare solemnity.

Benn nudged Shanks lightly with his shoulder. 

“Spit it out, love. I can see it all over your face, you’re thinking too hard.”

Shanks chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Am I that obvious?”

“To me? Always." Benn said, his tone teasing but warm.

Shanks exhaled, running a hand through his red hair. 

“It’s just… with everything going on, with Law and his crew and all the stuff that kid’s dealing with. I’ve been thinking about you. About how you’re handling all this.”

Benn’s brow furrowed slightly. “Me? Why are you worrying about me? I’m fine, Shanks.”

Shanks shook his head, his gaze dropping to the sake bottle in his hand. 

“I know you’re fine, Benn. You always are. But seeing Law and the way he flinches, the way he tries to hide who he is, it reminds me of you back then. After the hunters and everything they did to you.”

Benn’s breath caught for a moment, but he quickly recovered. He reached out and gently placed his hand over Shanks’, giving it a reassuring squeeze. 

“That was years ago, Shanks. I’m not that person anymore.”

“I know,” Shanks said, his voice low. “But I can’t help thinking about it. And now, we’re taking in a kid who’s dealing with a similar kind of pain. I don’t want this to be too much for you.”

Benn’s heart swelled at Shanks’ concern. Even after all these years together, his husband’s ability to care so deeply never failed to touch him. 

“You don’t have to worry about me. Helping Law and his friends, it doesn’t hurt me. If anything, it helps.”

Shanks looked at him, his expression softening.

“You’re sure? Because if it ever gets to be too much…”

“I’ll tell you.” Benn said firmly. He leaned in and pressed a kiss to Shanks’ temple, lingering for a moment. 

“But I’m okay. And seeing you care so much, not just about them but about me, it means a lot.”

Chapter Text

As the weeks passed aboard the Red Hair Pirates’ ship, Trafalgar Law slowly began to drop his guard. The constant vigilance that had defined his life started to fade, replaced by a tentative sense of peace he hadn’t felt in years. 

He no longer hid his hybrid features, his ears flicked freely and his tail swayed behind him as he walked. Suppressing them had always hurt, restricting not only his abilities but also his emotional well-being.

Now, with Shanks’ gentle encouragement, he let them be, allowing himself to embrace the part of him he had been forced to suppress for so long.

His friends too, had begun to relax. Bepo, Shachi, and Penguin found solace in the camaraderie of Shanks’ crew. 

It was strange for Law to see his friends smile and laugh so easily after all they had endured because of him, but it made him happy. 

His three friends took to Shanks’ crew like ducks to water. They thrived in the camaraderie, soaking in the joy of having a family that truly cared for them.

Bepo, always shy yet fiercely loyal, grew bolder, eagerly learning from the older crewmates and finding a place to truly call home. Penguin and Shachi, meanwhile, loved playing pranks with Yasopp and the others, their mischievous grins a regular sight on the ship.

Law found himself spending most of his time either with Shanks or Benn, both of whom had taken on a fatherly role in his life, something Law would never admit but silently appreciated.

Shanks, in particular, was always there, offering affection and care without ever pressuring Law to reciprocate. It was… nice. 

A warmth that Law hadn’t realized he needed.

Shanks often ruffled Law’s hair or rubbed his head, careful of his sensitive ears and while Law would grumble or feign annoyance, he secretly didn’t mind. 

In fact, he had begun to look forward to those moments, cherishing the simplicity of being cared for without strings attached. 

The crew noticed the change in Law. They watched with fondness as Law leaned into the affection, letting his guard down more with each passing day.

Where once he had been a closed off, angry boy, now there were moments of lightness, times when he laughed, played and allowed himself to feel the love and care that surrounded him.

It was strange at first, letting someone else worry about him, care for him and protect him, but with time, Law began to accept it.

It was unusual for Law to seek out Shanks or Benn during the day, just to sit with them or spend time in their presence.

They had a way of calming Law’s nerves without even trying and he found comfort in the simplicity of their connection. He spent most of his time with either Shanks or Benn, learning more about the sea, battle strategies and even about himself.

It was during one quiet evening, as the sun set over the horizon and painted the sky in shades of orange and pink, that Shanks found Law sitting on deck staring out at the horizon, his tail twitched slightly.

“You’re thinking too much again, aren’t you?” Shanks’ voice broke through the silence, pulling Law from his thoughts.

Law glanced up as the older man settled beside him, a bottle of sake in hand. Shanks didn’t push or pry, he simply sat, his presence calm and grounding.

It was one of the things Law had come to appreciate about him. Shanks never demanded anything from him, never forced him to share more than he was ready to.

“Just… remembering,” Law muttered, his voice quieter than usual. His ears flicked back slightly, betraying his unease.

Shanks nodded but didn’t press further. Instead, he reached out, ruffling Law’s hair with a gentleness that made the boy stiffen for a moment before leaning into the touch.

Shanks was always careful with him, mindful of his sensitive ears and the lingering wariness that still clung to him.

“You know,” Shanks said after a long silence, “you don’t have to hold all of this inside. You’re just a kid, Law. It’s okay to let your emotions out.”

Law frowned, his tail twitching. “I don’t have time for that,” he said flatly. “I’ve spent too long fighting just to survive.”

Shanks hummed thoughtfully, taking a sip of his drink. “But you’re not alone anymore. You’ve got your friends and now you’ve got us too. You don’t have to carry everything by yourself.”

Law didn’t respond, but the tension in his shoulders spoke volumes.

After a moment, Shanks continued, his tone gentler. “Have you ever let yourself grieve, Law? For your family? For everything you’ve lost?”

The question hit harder than Law expected and he flinched as if struck. “I don’t…” His voice faltered and he looked away, his ears flattening against his head. “I don’t think about it. There’s no point. It’s not like it changes anything.”

Shanks frowned but didn’t argue. Instead, he set his sake aside and reached out, pulling Law into a firm but gentle hug. “I get it, but burying it only makes it harder. You’ve been carrying all that pain for so long, kid. It’s okay to let it out.”

Law stiffened in his arms, his pride and instinct to pull away warring with the deep, aching loneliness he’d buried for years. But Shanks’ warmth, his steady presence, made it impossible to resist. Law relaxed, his head resting against Shanks’ chest.

“I…” Law’s voice cracked, the weight of his buried emotions rising to the surface. “I miss them. I miss my parents. My sister. My home.”

His words came in a rush, tumbling over each other as years of suppressed grief and pain finally broke free. Tears spilled down his cheeks and before he could stop himself, he was sobbing into Shanks’ shirt, his small frame shaking with the force of his emotions.

“I hate this,” he choked out between sobs. “I hate my life. I don’t want to keep going. I don’t want to be like this anymore.”

Shanks’ heart ached for the boy in his arms. He wasn’t just a pirate or a rare hybrid, he was a kid who had lost everything, forced to grow up too soon in a world that had been cruel to him.

Law’s tail, moving on instinct, curled around Shanks’ arm, a subconscious gesture of trust and vulnerability.

Shanks continued to hold him, murmuring reassurances and allowing Law to release everything he had bottled up for so long. When the boy finally began to calm, his exhaustion catching up with him, Shanks spoke again, his voice steady and warm.

“You don’t have to leave, you know,” he said softly. “You and your friends can stay with us as long as you want. You’ve been through too much on your own, kid. Let us help you.”

Law’s sobs eventually began to quiet, exhaustion overtaking him as the weight of years of suppressed emotions finally released. 

He was too tired to argue, too tired to think. 

All he wanted was to feel safe. Shanks’ offer echoed in his mind and though Law couldn’t bring himself to answer right then, the thought of staying with Shanks, of not having to run anymore, was a small glimmer of hope in the darkness that had surrounded him for so long.

Shanks continued to hold him, his grip never loosening, until Law’s breathing evened out and he fell into a deep, exhausted sleep. 

The boy’s tail remained wrapped around Shanks’ arm, a silent sign of the bond that had formed between them. Shanks gently lifted Law into his arms and carried him towards Benn’s and his shared quarters. 

Benn immediately spotted the little bundle in Shanks’ arms.

“How is he?”

“Hopefully better now.”

Benn hummed, he carefully took Law from him to lay him down while Shanks changed.

Pulling a blanket over Law, Benn laid beside him, keeping watch as the boy rested.

Benn observed Law’s fluffy tail and ears, it filled him with ease knowing that they were not damaged in any way during Law’s hardships. He knew best how much hybrids treasured their features.

When Shanks returned to join them, he noticed Benn’s somber look. He had a guess, but knew now was not the time to talk about it. He only intertwined their hands, giving him a short squeeze.

As Law grew more comfortable in his new life, he made an effort to better understand his hybrid nature. He no longer suppressed his snow leopard instincts or features as he had in the past. Instead, he embraced them.

For so long, he had suppressed that part of himself out of fear, but now, surrounded by people who accepted him unconditionally, he began to shift more regularly.

He’d often spend hours in his hybrid form, his snow leopard tail lazily swishing as he lounged around the deck, or his ears flicking in response to the gentle teasing from the crew. It became a source of joy for him, rather than something he had to hide.

Sometimes, he would shift into his leopard form letting himself fall more into his playful instincts. He’d paw at a ball or chase after small objects on the deck, much to the crew’s amusement.

The sight of the once serious Law acting like a carefree young leopard brought smiles to everyone’s faces. They loved seeing him thrive in this new chapter of his life, free from the weight of the past that had once threatened to crush him.

One afternoon, Law found himself in one of his more playful moods. He had shifted into his snow leopard form, his sleek white-grey, spotted fur gleaming under the sun as he padded around the ship’s deck. 

It started small, Law would shift into his snow leopard form and bat around a ball, testing the limits of his strength and agility.

The crew loved watching him, cheering him on as he dashed across the deck or pounced on objects, his sleek, furred body moving with effortless grace. But as he grew more comfortable, Law’s playfulness extended beyond himself.

Shanks, who had been lounging in his usual spot near the ship’s bow, watched with a grin as Law chased the ball around, his long tail swishing in excitement.

It was rare to see Law like this, completely at ease, his guard down and his playful side on full display. The crew gathered around, encouraging Law, tossing the ball for him to pounce on.

Eventually, Law’s attention shifted from the ball to Shanks. With a mischievous glint in his golden eyes, Law pounced toward the red-haired pirate, landing squarely on his chest.

Shanks let out a hearty laugh, his arms wrapping around Law’s snow leopard form as the younger pirate batted at him with his paws, claws carefully sheathed.

“Oi, you’re getting heavier, you know that?” Shanks teased, ruffling the fur behind Law’s ears. “You’ll knock me off the ship one of these days.”

Law’s weight wasn’t much in his snow leopard form, but his playful attack still took Shanks by surprise.

Law let out a soft growl, though it was more playful than threatening and rolled off Shanks, swatting at his arm. His tail flicked lazily behind him, his golden eyes gleaming with satisfaction, before he took off again.

Benn, who had been watching from nearby, chuckled. “You’ve got your hands full with this one, Shanks.”

Shanks grinned, sitting up and rubbing his chest. “Yeah, but it’s worth it. Kid’s got spirit.”

The rest of the crew laughed and cheered, loving the sight of their young crewmate engaging in such playful behavior. 

Law’s friends, Bepo, Penguin, and Shachi, had joined in the fun as well, tossing the ball back and forth with Yasopp and Lucky Roux while Law was trying to catch the ball in between.

They laughed and played, their carefree attitudes infectious, reminding everyone just how young they still were.

“You know,” Benn said, leaning against the railing as he watched Law, “it’s good to see him like this.”

Shanks nodded, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah. He deserves this. They all do.”

Law padded over to Shanks and laid down, his paws resting comfortably in Shanks’ lap as the pirate captain absentmindedly scratched behind his ears. Law’s tail flicked lazily, his eyes half-closed in contentment.

“You know,” Shanks said with a chuckle, “you’ve come a long way from that brooding kid who wouldn’t let anyone near him.”

Law huffed, not bothering to open his eyes. “I still don’t like people near me.”

Shanks laughed, lightly tugging at Law’s ear. “Yeah, sure. Tell that to your tail that’s been wrapped around my leg for the past hour.”

Law’s ears twitched in annoyance, but he didn’t move. He was too comfortable to argue.

“You’ve changed, Law,” Shanks continued, his voice softer now. “In a good way. I like seeing you like this. Happy.”

Law didn’t respond right away, his eyes focused on the horizon. He wasn’t sure if he could put into words what he felt. But deep down, he knew Shanks was right.

He had changed. He wasn’t the same boy who had been running from his past, from all the pain. He still had a long way to go, but he felt like he was healing.

“I… don’t hate it,” Law finally muttered, his voice so low it was almost drowned out by the sound of the waves.

Shanks smiled, patting Law’s head. “That’s good enough for me.”

Law shifted back to lean against Shanks while they watched the crew laughing as they brought the drinks out. He glanced up at the older pirate, feeling a swell of gratitude that he couldn’t quite put into words.

Shanks had given them all something that they hadn’t had in a long time: peace, security, and a sense of belonging. 

Without him, Law didn’t know where they would have ended up. Likely still on the run, still fighting for their lives, never knowing a moment’s rest.

Shanks seemed to sense his thoughts because he looked down at Law, offering him a soft smile. “You alright, kid?” he asked, his tone gentle.

Law hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “Yeah… I’m just… thankful.”

Shanks raised an eyebrow, a knowing look in his eyes. “For what?”

“For… this,” Law replied, his voice quieter than usual. “For helping us. I don’t know where we’d be if you hadn’t stepped in when you did.”

Shanks’ smile softened even further and he reached out, ruffling Law’s hair. “You don’t have to thank me, Law. You and your crew are part of our family now. We look out for our own.”

Law’s ears twitched at that, a small, contented purr rumbling in his chest despite himself. He didn’t say anything else, but the warmth in his heart spoke volumes.

But peace didn’t last forever.

Chapter Text

They had docked on a small island to rest and resupply, the sun shining down as Shanks and his crew lounged about, laughing and relaxing. Law was with his friends near the edge of the forest, enjoying the rare moment of quiet. He had been feeling more at ease lately, his usual wariness dulled by the constant reassurance of Shanks’ protection.

Shanks and Benn relaxed by the railing watching the kids.

Shanks was in the middle of teasing his husband when his Observation Haki picked something up and his expression abruptly grew serious.

“Shit, we were too lenient. Benn the Marines are here!” Shanks cursed as he jumped from the ship and ran towards Law and the others, determined to get them to safety before something happened.

Meanwhile Benn rallied the crew together.

The sudden crack of gunfire caused Shanks’ blood to run cold, they were too late.

Law’s body jolted as two bullets tore through his side, the sharp pain blossoming before he had even processed what was happening. Marines. They had found him. Again.

The battle began in a flurry of chaos as the Red Hair Pirates immediately jumped into action. Law’s first instinct was to fight, but the pain from his wounds grew worse, Shanks ushered him and his friends back to the ship, insisting that they stay under the deck. Law’s injuries were bad and while he hated retreating, he knew he would be in the way and relented.

But the words of the Marines echoed in his ears even as he staggered to safety.

“You’re harboring a monster!” one of them shouted, venom in his voice.

“That freak hybrid! He’s nothing but a mistake!”

“Get him! The government wants that freak in chains!” one Marine bellowed.

Law’s blood ran cold, anger and shame boiling inside him. He knew he shouldn’t listen, knew that the Marines would say anything to get under his skin, but the words hit deep, stirring memories he had tried to bury. He had heard it all before. Freak. Monster. An animal pretending to be human.

Other Marines joined in, throwing insults not just at him, but at Shanks and his crew for protecting him. They spat accusations, claiming that the Red Hair Pirates were risking everything for a boy who wasn’t worth saving.

Law’s heart pounded as he ran, his claws digging into into the palm of his hands. The shouts and jeers of the Marines echoed in his ears, each word cutting deeper than the last.

“Abomination!”

“You think you can hide, beast?!”

“Should’ve put you down like the animal you are!”

“Look at him running!” another Marine jeered, his voice filled with venom. “What kind of coward hides behind pirates? You’re nothing but a freak!”

Law clenched his fists, his ears twitching in agitation. He shouldn’t care. He knew better. But the words… they clawed at him, reopening old wounds that had never fully healed.

Benn heard everything, every insult, every slur hurled at the boy he had come to care for like family, the words dug into Benn like claws. He’d heard them all before, when he was younger, when he was hunted, when he was tortured. The memories surged forward and with them came an uncontrollable fury. His jaw clenched and a low growl rumbled in his throat.

His blood boiled and before he knew it, his bloodlust spilled out like a wave, suffocating the Marines in its intensity. The air grew thick and heavy, the temperature seeming to drop as Benn stalked forward, his usually calm, composed demeanor was gone, replaced by something primal and terrifying.

“Touch him and you are dead.” Benn stated coldly, his eyes glowing slightly.

The Marines froze, their weapons shaking in their hands as Benn’s piercing gaze locked onto them, feeling the weight of Benn’s killing intent, their earlier bravado crumbling under the sheer pressure, some even dropping their weapons entirely as their instincts screamed at them to run. In that moment Benn wasn’t just a man, he was a predator and they were his prey. Even the most seasoned among them felt the hair on the back of their necks rise.

The Marines faltered. “W-what the hell is that?” one of them stammered. “He’s not human…”

Law, watching from the deck of the ship, was frozen. He’d never seen Benn like this before and despite the chaos of the battle, he couldn’t look away. The sight should have terrified him, but instead, it left him in awe. Benn, in his silent fury, radiated a sense of safety that Law couldn’t fully understand. He felt protected.

Shanks, fighting nearby, noticed the shift in Benn immediately. “Benn!” he called out, his voice sharp, but tinged with worry. “They’re not worth it. The kid’s safe!”

Benn growled low in his throat, his sharp teeth bared in frustration. His hybrid instincts clawed at the edges of his control, his panther demanding to be unleashed. With great effort, he pushed his instincts down, forcing himself to focus on the battle instead of giving in to the urge to tear the Marines apart.

Inside the ship, Bepo, Shachi, and Penguin urged Law to rest, but the pain in his side and the rage burning in his heart made it impossible. He paced the small space, frustration simmering beneath the surface. He hated this feeling, being weak, being a burden. He wanted to fight, to prove those Marines wrong, to prove that he wasn’t some helpless kid. But Shanks had insisted he stay put and for once, Law had to listen.

Shachi and Penguin managed to temporarily bandage Law’s wounds.

“Law, don’t listen to them, they are lying.” pleaded Bepo, after he saw the distant look in Law’s eyes and how his ears were pulled back.

A group of Marines managed to slip past the crew’s defenses, making their way onto the ship and into the lower decks where Law and the others were hiding. Law, despite his injuries, fought back with everything he had, but these Marines were more experienced and the blood loss was making him slower, his movements sluggish. Shachi, Bepo and Penguin tried to help him, but they got stopped by Marines that were attacking them. 

A Marine’s sword slashed across Law’s chest, and he fell to the ground, gasping as more blood pooled beneath him.

He wasn’t going to make it.

In the midst of the chaos, Shanks and Benn burst into the scene, their presence immediately shifting the tide of the fight. With swift, deadly precision, they cut down the Marines who had dared to target Law and his friends. Shanks’ rage was palpable, his usual carefree demeanor replaced by the fierce protectiveness of someone who had been pushed too far.

Benn knew Shanks could handle the enemies targeting Law, therefore he focused on the ones attacking Bepo, Shachi and Penguin. His control was crumbling bit by bit, the blood lust he released earlier was risky. His animal was furious and wanted to emerge.

As soon as the battle ended, Shanks and Benn rushed to Law’s side. The boy was barely conscious, his pale skin drenched in blood, his hybrid features twitching in pain and distress. Without wasting a second, Shanks scooped him up, carrying him back to the ship’s infirmary.

“Stay with me, kid,” Shanks muttered as he laid Law down on the bed, his voice filled with urgency. He calmed Law as best as he could till Hongo arrived, his heart racing with worry.

Benn arrived a little later, he first made sure Bepo, Shachi and Penguin weren’t injured.

Law lay still, his eyes half-lidded, staring up at the ceiling as Hongo worked. He didn’t say a word, but his tail, limp at his side and his flattened ears betrayed the emotions swirling inside him. He wasn’t just in physical pain, the words from the Marines had cut deeper than any blade. Even if he knew they were just trying to get to him, part of him couldn’t shake the doubt creeping into his mind.

Shanks and Benn could sense the weight on the boy’s soul, the way his emotions simmered just beneath the surface. Gently, Benn placed a hand on his head, his voice soft but firm. “You’re not a monster. Don’t ever believe that.” Benn knew, no matter how much he tried to ignore the comments, they still managed to take root in Law’s head.

Law’s breath hitched and he turned his head away, his throat tight. “I’m sorry,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. “I didn’t mean to cause so much trouble…”

“Hey,” Shanks interrupted, leaning closer and pulling him into a gentle embrace, mindful of the wounds. “You have nothing to be sorry for. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

Law stiffened, trying to suppress the emotions welling up inside him, but it was a losing battle. The weight of everything, his past, the Marines’ words, the constant danger came crashing down all at once. He didn’t want to break down again, didn’t want to appear weak, but the words had struck a chord deep inside him. He had spent so long running, fighting and hiding that he had forgotten what it felt like to just live.

“I don’t want to be this…” Law’s voice cracked, his ears flattening further. “I don’t want to be a monster.”

Shanks caressed his hair. “You’re not a monster, Law. You’re a good kid, brave, strong, and loyal. Anyone who says otherwise is lying.”

For a moment, Law was silent, his mind reeling. He didn’t know how to process the overwhelming mix of emotions, the way Shanks’ and Benn’s words made something inside him loosen, just a little. He hadn’t had anyone who cared about him like this in so long, someone who worried, someone who stayed.

Tears welled in Law’s eyes, but he quickly blinked them away, refusing to let them fall. He didn’t want to cry again. Not now. Not when he was supposed to be stronger than this. But Shanks, ever patient, didn’t push him. He simply held Law, his presence a steady, calming force against the storm of emotions inside him.

“You’re not alone anymore,” Shanks said softly, his voice a promise. “I’m here. We’re all here for you. You’re part of this family now.”

Law’s chest tightened, but this time it wasn’t from pain or fear. It was something else, something warm that he hadn’t felt in years. Slowly, he let himself relax in Shanks’ arms, his tail unwinding from his side to loosely wrap Shanks’ arm.

Benn, however, stayed silent. His mind was elsewhere, replaying the moment he’d lost control. He knew his actions had been reckless, that letting his bloodlust show so blatantly had put the crew at risk. But deep down, he also knew why he’d done it. Hearing those Marines spew such hateful words at Law had struck a nerve he couldn’t ignore.

Later that night, Shanks went looking for Benn, only to find him in their quarters, pacing restlessly. His hybrid instincts were still simmering beneath the surface and his panther side clawed at him, demanding release. Benn’s fists were clenched, his jaw tight, as he fought to suppress the urge to shift.

“Benn,” Shanks said gently, stepping inside and closing the door behind him. “Talk to me.”

Benn didn’t respond. His back was to Shanks, his shoulders heaving with barely contained frustration. “I lost control today, Shanks.” he muttered. “I let my instincts take over. I almost…” His voice broke off, and he shook his head.

Shanks frowned, stepping closer. “You were protecting Law. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.”

“You don’t get it, Shanks. You didn’t see their faces. They looked at me like I was a monster and maybe they were right...” Benn’s voice was sharp, laced with self-recrimination. “I could feel it, Shanks. The pull. The hunger. I wanted to tear them apart and if you hadn’t stopped me…”

“And It’s not just that,” Benn admitted, his voice low and strained. “I tell Law to embrace his hybrid side, to stop hiding it… but here I am, a coward who can’t even face his own. I’ve spent years hiding it, hiding me , because every time I let it out, I remember what they did to me. The chains, the beatings, the experiments. The scars.” His voice cracked, and he turned away, unable to meet Shanks’ eyes. 

“I feel like a hypocrite,” Benn’s voice tinged with frustration. “I hide what I am because… because I’m afraid of what people will see. Of what I’ll see.”

Shanks’ expression softened, and he crossed the room to stand beside Benn. “You’re not a coward,” he said firmly. “You’ve been through hell, Benn. It’s not easy to let go of that.”

Benn shook his head, his frustration evident. “My panther side… you know it’s not normal. It’s…” He broke off, his voice trembling slightly. “It’s too much. Too big, too dangerous. I look like a monster. I feel like a monster. I can’t forget what I did to those hunters. I didn’t just kill them, Shanks… I tore them apart.”

Shanks moved in front of him, his heart broke at the pain and self-loathing in Benn’s voice. He knew the scars Benn carried, both physical and emotional. As a panther hybrid, Benn’s animal form was unusually large and powerful, something that had drawn the attention of hunters in the past. The torture he’d endured at their hands had left him with deep wounds that still hadn’t fully healed.

Shanks reached out, placing a hand on Benn’s shoulder. “Benn, look at me.” 

When Benn hesitated, Shanks reached up, gently cupping his face to make him meet his gaze. “You’re not a monster. You never have been. You’re my husband, the man who’s saved me and this crew more times than I can count. And Law? He sees you as someone strong, someone who cares enough about that boy to get angry on his behalf. You’re not a monster, Benn. You’re family.”

Benn turned to face him, his eyes filled with conflict. “It doesn’t feel that way,” he said bitterly. “You’ve seen what I am… what I have done. You’ve seen the scars. I’ve spent so long trying to suppress it, trying to be normal. But sometimes… it feels like I’m losing the fight.”

Shanks sighed softly, stepping closer until their foreheads touched. “Then stop fighting it,” he said gently. “You’ve been pushing it down for so long, Benn, but it’s part of you. Let it out. Let him out. Shift. You’ve been holding it in too long. You’re hurting yourself, I can see it in your eyes.”

Benn hesitated, fear flickering in his eyes. “What if I can’t control myself?”

“You can,” Shanks insisted. “And if you don’t, I’ll be right here to remind you who you are.”

For a long moment, Benn hesitated, the tension in his body palpable. Then, with a deep, shuddering breath, he allowed his hybrid form to take over. His body shifted, his frame growing larger, his fur sleek and jet-black as sharp claws and fangs emerged.

His dark fur was marred by scars, reminders of the horrors he’d endured, but to Shanks, he was beautiful.

Shanks stepped back, giving him space, but didn’t take his eyes off him. 

“You’re incredible,” Shanks whispered, his voice filled with love.

Benn let out a low rumble, his ears flattening slightly, but Shanks only smiled. He reached out, running a hand gently over Benn’s head, down his sleek black fur. Slowly, Benn began to relax, the tension easing from his body as Shanks murmured soothing words to him.

“You’re not a monster,” Shanks whispered, pressing a kiss to Benn’s muzzle. “You’re my husband. And no matter what form you take, that’s never going to change.”

Benn pressed his massive head against Shanks’ chest, letting out a low rumble of gratitude. 

Shanks guided him to their bed, pulling him close and wrapping his arms around the large feline. He continued to murmur soft reassurances, his voice a steady anchor for Benn’s soul and mind.

Eventually, Benn’s breathing evened out and he drifted into a peaceful sleep. Shanks held him close, his fingers combing through the panther’s fur as he whispered, “You’re perfect just the way you are.”

Chapter Text

The sun rose slowly over the horizon, casting golden hues across the deck of the Red Force. Inside the captain’s quarters Shanks, still half-asleep, was sprawled across the massive panther curled up beside him, one arm lazily draped over his sleek fur as he absentmindedly caressed it. His hand slid down Benn’s spine, feeling the strong muscles beneath the soft black coat. He exhaled quietly, rubbing gentle circles over the panther’s shoulders, his touch reverent, almost as if he was afraid this moment would slip away if he let go.

Though Benn had spent years suppressing his hybrid side, last night had been a rare moment of trust and vulnerability. Shanks didn’t want it to end. He knew how much Benn struggled with his instincts, how deeply ingrained his fears were. The fact that his husband had allowed himself to stay like this, even in sleep, was significant.

Shanks smiled to himself, pressing a gentle kiss into Benn’s fur. He knew how difficult last night had been for him. Despite how much Shanks adored Benn’s hybrid form, he never pushed him to shift, never forced him to embrace a part of himself that brought back painful memories. He wanted Benn to come to terms with it on his own.

In moments like these, when Benn allowed himself to be vulnerable, Shanks was reminded just how much his past haunted him. He always hated how Benn tried to hide this part of himself, how he carried so much shame for something that was simply who he was.

Benn let out a slow exhale, his grey eyes half-lidded. He wouldn’t admit it aloud, but feeling Shanks so close near his other form, completely unafraid of him, soothed something deep inside him.

His tail twitched slightly, brushing against Shanks’ legs. It had been a long time since he had willingly remained in this form for so long. Normally, he suppressed his hybrid nature out of habit, out of fear. But last night, with Shanks’ warm words and gentle touch, he had finally let go. Shanks had always accepted every part of him, no matter how much Benn tried to bury the panther. He had never once treated him as anything less, had never seen his hybrid nature as a weakness.

Shanks chuckled softly. “You feeling better?” 

Benn huffed in response, not bothering to shift back yet. He was comfortable like this and more than that, he was relieved. Letting go of his walls for the first time in a long while had been strangely liberating. There was no denying how much he had needed this, the simple act of letting go, of allowing himself to exist as he was meant to. 

“Take your time,” Shanks reassured him.

Benn flicked his ear in response, a silent acknowledgment that he heard him. Still half-drowsy, he let Shanks continue running his fingers through his fur, savoring the rare moment of peace. Benn let out a soft rumbling sound, somewhere between a sigh and a purr, leaning slightly into Shanks' touch. The noise made Shanks chuckle again. He leaned down, pressing a kiss to the top of Benn’s large feline head.

They continued to lay like this for another hour, before Benn shifted back. His transformation was smooth and practiced, his fur retracting and giving way to tanned skin, his muscles flexing as he returned to his human shape. 

Shanks sighed dramatically, running his hand over Benn’s now bare shoulder. 

“Shame,” he muttered, “You’re gorgeous either way, but I think I was getting used to sleeping with a giant panther.”

Benn had no response to that. He felt a pang of guilt for disappointing Shanks. But what could he say? That it was easier this way? That despite everything, despite the love and acceptance of this crew, of Shanks, he still couldn’t shake the ghosts of his past? That even now, he still sometimes felt the phantom weight of chains around his limbs, the sting of a whip across his back? That no matter how much time passed, there would always be a part of him that feared being seen as a beast instead of a man?

Shanks’ hand continues its slow, soothing movements, now tracing the familiar lines of Benn’s back. His fingers mapped the scars that told stories Benn rarely spoke of, his touch lingering over every mark left behind by those who had tried to break him. He wasn’t going to push, wasn’t going to beg Benn to stay in his hybrid form if he wasn’t ready. He would wait. He always did.

Benn smiled softly, pressing a kiss to Shanks’ temple. “Sorry to disappoint you, love.”

Shanks made a noise, something between a sigh and a hum, and slid his hand into Benn’s hair, massaging his scalp with the same tenderness he had given to his fur moments ago. 

“You don’t have to apologize and you know that.”

“I know, but I want to try shifting more.” Benn finally muttered, so quiet it was almost lost beneath the sound of the waves outside.

Shanks stilled for a moment before exhaling, his hold on Benn tightening. “That’s all I ask.”

Benn sighed, bringing a hand up to cup the back of Shanks’ head. He pressed a slow, lingering kiss to Shanks’ lips, their embrace lazy and warm. After a moment, Benn murmured to him, “Thank you... for last night.”

Shanks smiled into the kiss. “Always.”

They stayed like that, tangled in the sheets, bodies pressed together as they basked in each other’s warmth. Benn didn’t usually indulge in moments like this, didn’t usually allow himself to linger in bed without a reason. 

But this morning, he did. Maybe because Shanks’ arms were still around him, holding him close as if anchoring him. Maybe because he still felt lighter after the previous night, even if only a little. Or maybe because, despite everything, a small part of him didn’t want to leave the comfort of this embrace.

Shanks, knowing Benn better than anyone, didn’t rush him. He simply lay there, rubbing slow, soothing patterns over Benn’s back before coming to rest at his waist. His touch was steady, grounding, and affectionate.

After a while, Benn shifted, his arms tightening slightly around Shanks. “I don’t know how you do it,” he muttered against Shanks’ skin. “Make me want to stay like this.”

Shanks chuckled, his breath warm against the top of Benn’s head. 

“I’m irresistible,” he teased, pressing a soft kiss to Benn’s temple. “Admit it.”

Benn huffed, but there was no real bite to it. “You’re a damn nuisance.”

“A lovable nuisance,” Shanks corrected, grinning.

They remained like that for a while, exchanging slow touches and quiet reassurances, neither in a rush to leave the warmth of their shared bed. But eventually, duty called. With one last lingering glance, they dressed and made their way out, setting their sights on other important matters.

Meanwhile, in the infirmary, Trafalgar Law stirred awake. His golden eyes fluttered open, taking in the familiar surroundings. The sterile scent of medical supplies mixed with the faint salt of the sea, grounding him in reality. His body ached, a dull soreness settling deep in his bones from the injuries he’d sustained during the battle. 

His first instinct was to sit up, but as soon as he tried, a sharp pain lanced through his side, forcing him back down.

“Oi, don’t even think about it,” Shachi’s voice came from the side. Law turned his head slightly to see his friends sitting nearby.

Penguin smirked. “Yeah, unless you want to get chewed out by Hongo again.”

Bepo, who was sitting closest, leaned over and placed a gentle paw on Law’s arm. “You need to rest.”

Law sighed, but relented, allowing himself to relax against the pillows. He knew they were right, he wasn’t in any condition to be walking around yet. His injuries from the last battle were still fresh, though thanks to Hongo, he was healing well.

Law felt a warmth in his chest at their concern. Even when he tried to push them away, they stayed by his side. He didn’t say it, but he was grateful.

As time passed, his friends kept him entertained, making sure he ate something, despite his protests. 

By noon, the door creaked open and Shanks and Benn stepped inside. Law, who was alone for once, glanced up, his ears twitching as they entered.

Shanks grinned. “Good to see you awake, kid.”

Benn crossed his arms, his sharp gaze sweeping over Law with scrutiny. “How’re you feeling?”

Law muttered something unintelligible, letting them know he was fine, at least physically. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something was... off. 

As Shanks and Benn approached, his nose picked up something faint but distinct. It was different from their usual scents. His senses sharpened. It was unmistakable. Hybrid.

His golden eyes flickered toward Benn, confusion creeping into his features. He could smell it on him, beneath Benn’s usual scent of gunpowder and tobacco, was something distinctly… feline about it. There were no visible signs, no ears, no tail, nothing to indicate he was anything other than human.

Law’s mind raced, piecing things together. The scent, the way Benn had reacted so strongly during the fight, the raw, primal anger in his eyes when the Marines insulted him… It all clicked.

Benn was a hybrid.

The realization settled in his chest with an unexpected weight. Benn had never told him.

Why?

Law’s brows furrowed, his tail flicking slightly beneath the sheets. He felt... hurt.

It wasn’t just the secrecy that stung, it was the fact that Benn had encouraged Law to embrace his hybrid nature, had stood up for him, but had never revealed that he, too, was one. Law didn’t know how to feel about that.

Law had struggled with his hybrid side his whole life. He had spent years suppressing it, hating it, fearing how others would perceive him. And yet, Benn, someone he had begun to trust, had never said a word about being the same. Why?

Law hesitated, his gaze flickering down as his ears twitched in agitation. He wanted to ask. He wanted to demand an explanation. But at the same time, he wasn’t sure if it was his place. Maybe Benn had a reason. Maybe it was something painful.

Still, Law couldn't shake the feeling of betrayal, no matter how small. His ears twitched again, betraying his inner turmoil.

Benn noticed the way Law’s ears twitched, the subtle flick of his tail betraying his thoughts. At first, he wasn’t sure why Law was suddenly tense, but then he realized.

The scent.

Benn had forgotten about it. He had spent the night in his hybrid form and though he had shifted back, his unique hybrid scent still lingered. Law had picked up on it.

A quiet sigh escaped Benn’s lips and he cursed inwardly. He had hoped for more time before addressing this, but Law was perceptive. There was no avoiding it now.

“I take it you figured it out,” Benn said quietly, watching Law closely.

Law’s sharp eyes snapped up to him. He didn’t respond, but his expression said enough.

Benn exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. He wasn’t used to talking about this and wasn’t used to acknowledging it. But Law deserved some kind of answer.

“You figured it out, huh?”

Law tensed slightly at the confirmation, but he nodded.

“I should’ve told you sooner, I was going to tell you eventually,” Benn admitted. “Guess I just kept putting it off.”

Law’s fingers clenched slightly against the sheets. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

Benn hesitated. It wasn’t an easy answer. He glanced at Shanks, who gave him an encouraging nod, silently telling him that he didn’t have to do this alone.

Benn sat down at the edge of the bed. He thought carefully about how to explain it. “Because it’s not something I like to talk about,” he admitted. “Not because I’m ashamed of it, but because of what happened to me because of it. My experience with being a hybrid isn’t the same as yours, Law.”

Law furrowed his brows, watching Benn carefully.

“Because I was taught that if anyone ever knew, they’d use it against me. Because when I was your age, being a hybrid meant being hunted and I couldn't escape the hunter forever, eventually I was captured, I wasn’t strong enough and by the time I was, I was already...” He hesitated, then shook his head. “Doesn’t matter right now.”

Law’s breath hitched slightly.

Benn continued, his voice quieter now. “I know what it’s like to hate that part of yourself. To want to suppress it, to fear what’ll happen if someone sees. I spent years hiding my ears, my tail, my instincts. And even now... I still struggle to embrace them again.”

Law’s fingers clenched the blanket covering him. 

“I told you to embrace your hybrid nature because I never want you to end up like me, afraid of it. I spent too many years trying to push it down, trying to pretend it wasn’t there because it brought me nothing but pain. And I regret that.”

Law’s ears flattened slightly, his tail curling around himself. “Then why do you still hide it?”

Benn exhaled through his nose, tilting his head back slightly. “Because some scars don’t heal, kid. At least not as fast as we would like”

Law didn’t know what to say to that. He sat there in silence, absorbing everything Benn had told him.

And then Benn did something unexpected.

He reached out and ruffled Law’s hair, the same way Shanks often did. “But you?” he said, his voice carrying a rare warmth. “I’m proud of you, y’know. Every time I see you shift, every time I see you run around as a little cub, every time you let your instincts take over, it makes me happy. I feel... relieved. Because it means you’re not ashamed, you’re not letting anyone take that part of you away.”

Law blinked, stunned.

Benn smirked, leaning back in his chair. “I see you running around as a little snow leopard cub, pouncing on people and stealing food? Makes me glad you’re nothing like me.”

Shanks chuckled from beside him. “I dunno, Benn. I bet you were a cute panther cub.”

Benn rolled his eyes, shoving Shanks lightly, but Law caught the subtle softening in his expression.

Law didn’t know what to say. He had been ready to be angry, but hearing Benn’s explanation made something inside him ache.

He had spent his whole life thinking he was alone in this struggle. But now, he realized... Benn understood.

Benn had lived through worse.

And despite everything, he still looked at Law with pride.

Benn leaned back slightly, watching Law with quiet understanding. “I know I should have told you sooner. I’m sorry for that.”

Law hesitated before speaking. “…You don’t have to tell me everything. But… I want to understand.”

Benn’s lips curled slightly at the edges, not quite a smile, but something close. “Maybe one day, kid.”

A lump formed in Law’s throat, but he forced it down. After a long moment, he finally muttered, “...You should shift more.”

Benn blinked in surprise.

Law kept his gaze averted. “You tell me to embrace it, but you don’t. You should.”

Shanks grinned, giving Benn an ‘I told you so’ look.

Benn huffed, shaking his head. “Maybe.”

Law glanced between the two men, his tail slowly uncurling. The lingering hurt hadn’t completely disappeared, but it no longer felt like betrayal. Instead, it felt like something else.

Understanding.

During the rest of his recovery, Law found himself lost in thought. He absentmindedly stroked his fluffy snow leopard tail, running his fingers through the thick fur as he pondered everything Benn had told him. He understood Benn’s reasoning after their talk, but the sting of it still lingered.

The idea of suppressing his hybrid side for years was unimaginable. He had done it for only three or four years, and it had nearly broken him. 

Benn had done it for decades.

Law couldn't imagine suppressing his hybrid nature for decades. The pain, the exhaustion, the sense of being incomplete, it was unbearable. 

Would things have been different if Benn had told him sooner? Would it have been easier to accept himself if he had known that someone else, someone he looked up to, understood?

All this time on the ship, he had felt welcomed, treated like family. The Red Hair Pirates had welcomed him and his friends with open arms, treating them like family. And yet, there had always been a quiet sense of loneliness in Law’s heart, none of them truly understood what it meant to be a hybrid in a world that feared and hated them.

Now, he knew Benn did.

The thought lingered in his mind as he healed.

Once he was finally able to wander around without too much pain, he spent most of his time either lost in thoughts or mingling with his friends, trying to distract himself. Shachi and Penguin did their best to cheer him up, cracking jokes and dragging him into their antics. Bepo stuck close as well, offering silent comfort.

Benn noticed the change in him. He had been distant before, but now it felt different, like Law was trying to process something too big for him to put into words.

“He’ll come to you when he’s ready,” Shanks murmured one evening as they sat together, sharing a drink on deck.

Benn wanted to believe that, but a part of him still felt like it was his fault Law was retreating again. Had he ruined something between them by keeping his secret? Had he made Law feel alone, even in a place where he had always been welcomed?

The logical part of him knew Law’s thoughts weren’t solely about him, there were deeper wounds that still needed healing. But the mind had a way of tormenting itself, making Benn question if he had somehow pushed the boy away.

It wasn’t until one evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, that Law hesitantly approached him.

Benn sat near the railing of the ship, watching the waves roll beneath them, when he caught the scent of Law approaching. His sharp eyes flickered to the side, noting the way Law’s tail twitched nervously, his ears slightly lowered in uncertainty. He looked like he was battling with himself.

Still, Law sat down beside him.

Benn didn’t say anything at first, giving him space to speak on his own terms. But when the silence stretched, he finally asked, “Something on your mind?”

Law fidgeted for a moment before taking a deep breath. “Are you… doing better now?”

Benn blinked at the unexpected question. “With what?”

“With the pain,” Law clarified, glancing at him briefly before looking away again. “The pain that comes from suppressing your hybrid side.”

Benn considered the question before answering. “Yeah. I’m making progress.” He stretched his arms, leaning back against the railing. “I’ve been shifting more, at least in my quarters, with Shanks there. It helps and it doesn’t feel as bad anymore.” He huffed out a small laugh. “Still got a long way to go, though.”

Law nodded, seemingly lost in thought again. His fingers curled into his pants as he hesitated, then finally asked, “Did you… did you only help me because I’m a hybrid?” 

His voice was soft, uncertain. “Did you feel… obligated?”

Benn immediately frowned, his expression darkened, not with anger, but with frustration that Law even had to ask. 

“No,” he said firmly. “Not at all.”

Law glanced up at him, fingers curled into fists in his lap. “Then why?”

“We helped you because we wanted to,” Benn continued. “Because no kid, hybrid or not, should have to suffer the way you have and certainly not for something they can’t control. We didn’t take you and your friends in because of obligation, Law. We took you in because we care.”

Law looked down at his hands.

Benn sighed, reaching over to ruffle Law’s dark curls. “You’re part of this crew, Law. We all love you, whether you believe it or not. We want to see you happy. Free.”

Law swallowed hard. He had never had someone say that to him before, not like that.

A few seconds later, he mumbled, “Thank you.”

Benn hummed, pulling his cigarette from his mouth and exhaling a slow stream of smoke. A small smile tugged at Benn’s lips. “Anytime, kid.”

For a while, they sat in comfortable silence, the sounds of the ocean filling the space between them.

Then, after some hesitation, Law spoke again. “…Can I ask you something?”

Benn gave him a sidelong glance. “Go ahead.”

Law shifted slightly, suddenly feeling self-conscious “…About hybrids. Things I’ve always wondered about… No one ever told me about… what it means to be one. What’s normal, what’s not. How instincts work, how to deal with them. I just had to figure things out on my own.”

Benn’s expression softened.

“I guess… I just want to understand.”

A chuckle rumbled in Benn’s chest. “That so?” He smirked and reached out, pulling Law closer with an arm around his shoulder. “Well, I’ll do my best to answer them.”

Law bristled at the sudden hug, but eventually leaned into it.

Law smiled, a small, barely-there expression, but a smile nonetheless.

As the night stretched on, Law asked question after question, some simple, some complicated, everything that had ever crossed his mind about hybrids, about their instincts, their biology, their nature. He asked about the things he had always wanted to know but had never had anyone to answer.

Benn answered them all with patience, sharing things he had never really spoken about before. He told Law about the instincts, the little quirks that came with being a hybrid, the things he had once struggled with himself. He didn’t have all the answers, but for once, Law had someone to ask.

At some point, without realizing it, Law had shifted just slightly, his body sagging against Benn’s side as exhaustion crept in. His tail flicked lazily before curling up near Benn’s leg. He soon fell asleep, his head rested against Benn’s lap, his breathing even and slow.

Benn looked down to find that Law had fallen asleep in his lap, his head resting against his thigh. His small form was curled up slightly, his tail wrapped around himself.

Benn sighed, but there was a warmth in his chest he couldn’t deny. He ran his fingers through Law’s hair absentmindedly, careful not to wake him.

That was how Shanks found them. 

Law had completely relaxed, his head resting in Benn’s lap as he slept soundly. His ears twitched occasionally, but his face was peaceful, no longer burdened by overthinking or doubt.

Benn looked up as Shanks approached, a small, knowing smile on the red heads lips.

“Told you he’d come to you,” Shanks murmured with amusement, settling down beside them. He rested his head against Benn’s shoulder, watching the way Law’s tail curled around himself in contentment.

Benn hummed, his hand still stroking through Law’s hair. “Yeah.” He glanced down at the sleeping boy, the corners of his lips softening.

The three of them sat there for a while, bathed in the soft glow of the ship’s lanterns, the gentle rocking of the sea lulling them into a quiet peace.

Shanks and Benn never planned on taking care of four teenagers.

But now, they couldn’t imagine life without them.

And watching them flourish like this, watching Law finally allow himself to rest, to trust them,  made everything worth it.

Maybe, just maybe, they were all starting to heal.

- The End