Archive of Our Own

The sea was far too calm, a thick fog hovering over its light waves as nightfall crept in. The moonlight glistened over the water; it would’ve been a soft and quiet night if not for a large ship sailing through the dark waters. Shanks had his back turned toward a portion of his crew, hand on the cold railing on deck as he watched a nearby island draw closer.

It was one of his territories, an island he saved a while back from some ruthless queen. He had planned to stop by for a supply run, and also, the place was known for its liquor; the bars were always packed and full.

“You just gonna stare all night until we get there?” Lucky Roux laughed, biting a piece of meat he was holding, recently cooked. The smell of dinner still wafted in the air, a small reminder for Shanks that he should probably join his crew and eat. 

Recently, he’d been feeling nothing short of restless. Sure, he’d get tired, and Benn would find him napping in odd spots. But when he was awake, he couldn’t get his mind to shut up, constantly running.

It had gotten to a point where Hongo had to give him checkups, chiding his captain for taking too many rut suppressants. To which the alpha just ignored. He always hated going into rut; he saw it as a weakness, and the strongest emperor of the sea couldn’t be seen like that. At least that was what he thought. The others, his closest crewmembers, heavily disagreed.

The Red Force was full of nothing but alphas, occasional betas. Never an omega, Shanks had made it clear he didn’t want any on his ship; he knew the chaos it would cause. He knew how insane unmated alphas could be around omegas. 

That’s why he made sure to look out for his crew, making sure they took stops at islands and brothels, even though he hated the idea of it. Never really caring to let his body follow its natural instinct, and to let his rut follow through.

Shanks can’t even remember the last time he had a rut… It had to have been at least two years. His ruts were bad. Sure, Hongo recommended he stop taking so many suppressants and let his body do its thing, but he knew the main reason he took them. The whole ship did. That’s why Hongo only recommended, never demanded, that he stop completely.

Every time he went into rut, it’s like his body was on fire; he couldn’t eat, couldn’t sleep. He’d smash furniture or anything close by, aggressive like no other. There were times Benn had to step in and hold him back. And even though he spent his ruts on some cheap omega, he’d rarely enjoy it. It’s almost as if his body would reject pleasure. 

Because the entire time, he’d be thinking about his childhood friend, yearning more than thinking of fantasies during rut. Every time. He hated it. Hated how much his body needed Buggy. It was definitely worse when he was younger. He’d hump and rut into pillows, imagining Buggy beneath him, until his rut passed. 

Don’t get him started on his early twenties. He’d scream and cry for him; embarrassingly, his closest officers would have to calm him down. He thanked the seas that with age, he’d relaxed on the carnal need to fuck the closest thing next to him, but now he just got angry.

So he’d definitely keep sticking to the rut suppressants. 

Shanks turned and glanced at Lucky, giving him a calm smile. “Smells good. What’d you make?” He laughed, walking over to him and stepping inside the ship, the door shutting behind them. He sighed as he was met with a very loud crew, Benn looking pissed off as ever. Two rookies having a food fight. There were thrown bowls, broken glass, and fresh food wasted on the floor. He really, really didn’t have the temper for this right now.

He cleared his throat, and the room went silent, one of the rookies stopping mid-throw, a ball of rice frozen in his fist. They all looked at their captain, who was standing by the door, unimpressed. “Don’t go wasting Lucky’s good cooking now,” He laughed, trying to ease the startled looks. Seriously, why did everyone look so scared? 

The dining room of the ship was soon revived, loud chatter from different people having separate conversations. The two rookies had guilty faces after being scolded by Benn and began cleaning their mess. Yassop walked over to Shanks, still chewing on a bite. “You look a little worse for wear. Fight a sea beast in your sleep? At least you kept an arm this time.” He snickered, clearly tipsy, making Shanks chuckle.

Some would find that joke offensive, but he was never sensitive around his crew… usually.

He grabbed a meal and sat down at a nearby table with Benn and the others. Hongo staring at him a bit too hard. “Don’t remind me, didn’t sleep much.” He just grumbled, expecting another joke or question about how pissed off he looked. It made him a bit upset, almost feeling guilty. He really wasn’t trying to look annoyed; he was usually full of smiles and brightening his crew up just with his presence alone. 

Hongo bit the inside of his cheek, as if pondering something serious. “After dinner, you should come visit my office.” The doctor spoke barely above a whisper, not trying to speak too loudly. It made Shanks groan, taking a bite of his food.

If Hongo was asking to see him, it can’t be all that good. Benn added along, “Yeah, chief, you smell strong.” He made a face, scrunching his nose. Shanks just rolled his eyes. “Alright guys, enough with the scolding, I get it. I need a shower and maybe a nap.” He just laughed it off, trying to ignore the concerned stares he got from all his close officers. 

“It’s not that,” Lime Juice muttered, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. That made Shanks’s stomach flip. Trying to suppress his surprise and worry with a cough, that didn’t hide his expression. 

“C’mon, you guys seriously don’t think I’m going into rut, right? I’ve been taking suppressants.” He chuckled, trying to ease the stares he got, speaking quietly for only his close friends to hear. It didn’t help at all.

After they finished their meals and his crew got busy with evening chores and duties, he found himself sitting in a chair in Hongo’s office, his lips downturned in displeasure. 

“Well, just stay low for a bit in your cabin, you’ll be fine tonight but I can’t guarantee tomorrow you’ll be. I’ll come check on you and Benn can be in charge until your rut clears up.” Hongo cleared his throat, explaining with a clipboard in his hands.

“That’s not possible. I’ve been taking my suppressants.” He growled out, short-tempered. Hongo just sighed, shoulders dramatically raising and falling. “Look, Shanks. When you take them for an extended period of time your body sort of— well, it doesn’t affect you anymore. Your body needs to have a cycle, it’s nature.”

Hongo can’t believe he was having to explain this to his captain, pinching his nose. God he wasn’t even prepared to deal with him. He needed to tell his colleagues.

Shanks just groaned loudly, slumping back into his seat. Benn peeped in through the door, an unlit cigarette in between his fingers. “Shit,” he smirked, an unamused look. Shanks just side-eyed him, already irritable. 

“Don’t we dock at one of our islands in the morning?” He questioned Benn, and the other nodded with a deep sigh. “You think he’ll be fine for tomorrow?” Beckman cleared his throat, hand on the doorframe as he shot Hongo a concerned look.

“Well, I can’t say for certain. Chief do you feel like you can hold out another day?” Hongo questioned, writing something down with his black pen. The Emperor grumbled a curse, but nodded.

“Positive. You guys don’t have to worry about me, I think if I take suppressants tonight it should hold my rut off maybe by another day.” He explained with a serious face. As if trying to convince himself more than them.

Hongo just gave a pitying stare, as if he knew that was bullshit. He set his clipboard and pen down on the counter beside him, shifting in his chair uncomfortably. He twitched his mouth open, careful of his next words. “Chief—“

“Drop it.” Shanks growled lowly, the kind of growl that demanded obedience. Hongo didn’t even have to open his senses largely enough, could already smell the irritation on the alpha. Even Benn was slightly shaken at the display of anger from their captain. It took a lot to get on his nerves.

Shanks immediately frowned, guilt washing over him and flooding his veins. “I apologize, I wasn’t trying to lash out.” He sighed, knowing this wasn’t helping his case. But it seemed his men understood, taking no offense. 

Hongo sighed softly, picking his pen back up to note something down before turning his attention back to the Emperor. “As long as someone is with you the entire time you should be fine. Benn?” He glanced at the first mate, making the other squint. “Fine. Chief, that alright with you?” He clicked his tongue.

Shanks just chuckled, easing the tension. “Fine by me. I wouldn’t want to accidentally get triggered and have no one to calm me.” He shot his right-hand man a friendly smile, avoiding to mention his anxiety about the situation. However, he’s certain they knew and understood.

A scream ran through the Big Top, Alvida covering her ears, vein popping on her temple in annoyance. “Seriously Buggy, just fucking pick one!” She chided, throwing her hands in the air; red nails shining in the setting sun light through the window of the room. 

“You out of everyone here should be assisting me, you’re doing a horrible job as someone who begged me to change course to an island that is one of Shanks’s territories!” He hissed back, wiping the tenth… eleventh? Lipstick from his lips, there were thrown containers scattered all over his room, all sorts of shades and colors.

“Whatever. I don’t care, it’s not like he’s going to be there. He’s probably busy in a brothel with omegas or… or doing some dumb shit!” He hissed, causing the dark-haired woman to quirk an eyebrow at the suspected jealousy. 

Alvida just pinched her nose before sighing deeply, focusing on deep breathing. This clown was really testing her patience today, he was oddly picky and pissed off. “The second shade with the pink undertone was the cutest.” She added her own input, causing the captain to groan. 

“You tell me this now?” He grabbed a napkin, and then the lipstick Alvida pointed back to. If anything, Buggy should be grateful she wanted to change course, that island had one of the best fashion lines in its stores. Similar to a mall, which was rare to come across unless it was a thriving, wealthy kingdom or city.

“Stop stressing. It’s not like you’re meeting anyone special, we’re literally just window shopping, or stealing…” She whispered that last part on a huff, not like she needed to be discreet. Buggy knew that was probably all his crew were going to do, rarely spending their money unless heavily necessary.

“Whatever. You can leave now, I need to rest. I was just testing which one would match best for my look tomorrow.” He mumbled, wiping off the remaining smudges before tossing the napkin blindly into a trash can to the side. 

Alvida just rolled her eyes, taking a piece of paper that was on the vanity. A list of all the things they needed to stock up on, important shit Buggy would probably forget since he was enamored with makeup right now. 

She stopped by the door on her way out, head to the side. “Oh, and by the way, you smell off today. Might want to reconsider going out.” Alvida was also an omega, knowing the struggle. But she at least remembered to take her suppressants, she knew how forgetful her co-captain was.

Buggy’s hand stuttered, halting his movements immediately before flipping his head around. “What?” He was met with a door shutting. 

He let out a shaky breath before bolting to his connected bathroom, taking a panicked glance in the mirror. He didn’t… look off? He did feel oddly uncomfortable and emotional today but he assumed that was from poor sleep. Shit. 

His hands fumbled in drawers, moving gauze, old makeup, change, stuff you’d find in a forgotten drawer. No suppressants. “What the fuck? I keep them here!” There wasn’t even an empty box. Buggy ran a sweaty hand through the front of his blue hair, breathing unevenly. There’s no way he was in pre-heat. There just wasn’t!

He ran to Alvida’s room, not bothering to knock. Met with her in just a bra, getting dressed into one of her fancy night gowns. “You bitch!” He strangled out, noticing an empty heat suppressant bottle on her floor. That was his!

He stormed over and got in her face, she just rolled her eyes, unbothered. How narcissistic can someone be? And that was a lot of wondering coming from Buggy. “Are you fucking kidding me?!” He scoffed, insanely appalled.

She just shrugged, lips downturned in innocence. “I ran out, and you weren’t taking them; the poor bottle was practically growing dust.” She chuckled, looking Buggy up and down. “God, now that you’re closer you really do smell.” 

“And whose fault would that be?” His eyes widened in shock at the situation. Alvida just narrowed her brows, “Uh, yours? Duh.” She spoke as if she were in the right. The nerve on this woman sometimes. It infuriated Buggy to no end. “Don’t be stupid. I was taking mine! I just forgot for one day, I was busy helping around to fix the leak in the hold yesterday, unlike someone who made excuses!” He bit back, crossing his arms, no longer pointing fingers.

“A day? It was days! Plus I broke a nail, I wasn’t going to risk another helping your stupid crew fix something they caused.” She spat back, getting in his face, nose scrunching at the sweetness oozing off of him. “You’re fucking lucky the few alphas on this ship have a mate. You seriously reek.” 

Buggy just shifted on one foot to the other, brows furrowing. “Thanks Captain obvious.” He pondered for a few moments, deep in thought on his current predicament. “Do we have any scent blockers?” He questioned more calmly, now that the argument had been slightly diffused.

“Hm, I believe we ran out. We can always stock up on that island we’re headed to. Where are the others? I’m sure they can help… Should arrive by tomorrow.” She hummed, finger under her bottom lip.

Buggy’s breath hitched, eyes widening slightly. “Tomorrow?!” He gasped, his head popping off his shoulders in panic before hovering back on. “Ahem… I guess that should be fine, whatever! I’ll figure something out. Worse comes to worst I rub lemon juice on me or some bullshit,” 

“That didn’t quite work last time,” She smirked at the memory, Buggy having to lock himself in his room for a week. It seemed he knew what she was thinking, shooting her an angry glance. “Fuck off. I was fine.”

“Your definition of fine amuses me,” She just laughed, moving to clip her bra off and pull over a silky gown, extra as ever. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I must get my beauty sleep. Something you’ll be struggling to do soon,” She giggled wickedly, that conniving bitch. Buggy grit his teeth.

“Shut your mouth! I’ll be fine. I always handle my heats fine, you’re the dramatic one!” He glared, storming out of the room. He ignored the curses being thrown at the back of his head, just shook them off as he walked back to his room.

Once the omega made it to his uniquely styled room, flopping on his bed with a tired groan, thinking about how awful this week was going to get. 

Crossguild was another thing to add to the list of stressors. This was one of the only times he was finally away from those two big egotistical-sadistic maniacs. Crocodile allowed him to go on a trip with his crew just for a ‘supply run’, he called it. Buggy silently mocked him, knowing the greedy rich bastard just wanted ways for him to find more money.

Blue hair splayed messily as the man shifted in his bed, uncomfortable. He let out a whimper, as much as he wanted to prove to his crew he was a strong Captain, he fucking despised his heats. It made him feel weak, incompetent. It was just another reason he hated Shanks for presenting as an alpha all those years ago on the Oro. 

He remembered how joyed Roger was to learn his golden boy was going to be an alpha, a strong one at that. Buggy doesn’t even want to think about the fomo he experienced. The envy, anger, and jealousy. Fuck Shanks and fuck every alpha on all the seas actually.

Pre-heat was just as bad. Or maybe he was being dramatic, but he really hated shifting back and forth, trying so desperately to rest. The heat crept up his neck and radiated down his entire body. The hot flashes— “Fuck,” He hissed, sitting up panting like he’d just awoke from a nightmare. He reached over to take the cup on his nightstand, downing all the water trying to ease something.

The worst part was he only wanted one person when he was deep in his heat. He bit his lip, angrily looking away, as if to escape his own thoughts. He didn’t want to think about that redheaded asshole right now, not when he was already in a bad mood.

“Why does he get blessed with good things…” He groaned, dramatically flopping down onto his bed, staring at his ceiling and waiting for his inevitable heat to creep in tomorrow. Maybe it would be understandable and wait a few more days? He wasn’t the first omega to beg his instincts to wait, and is sure he wouldn’t be the last. Shutting his eyes begrudgingly, Buggy tried to finally get some rest.

“Chief! We’re docking soon!” A call was heard outside of the Emperor's door, a loud knock following suit, rousing him from sleep. Shanks groaned, stretching his arm. Rubbing the blur from his eyes, he sighed. “Fuck,” Feeling awful, He yawned, realizing how much his two fangs ached. 

He massaged the scruff of his jaw, grunting as he sat up and made his way to his bathroom. As soon as he stepped in he was met with his reflection in the mirror. He looked like shit. He bit his lip as he muttered another curse, staring at the dark circles under his eyes, and how sweaty his hair was. He didn't realize how much he sweat in his sleep when in pre-rut.

Deciding to try and rid some of the stench, he took a quick cold shower, needing the fresh sensation against his hot skin. He sighed in relief as the cool water drizzled into his scalp, watering him like a dehydrated, wilting plant.

Once out, he grabbed a nearby towel and wiped his hair down, then his body. He moaned lowly as he accidentally rubbed against his sensitive cock. It took everything in him not to start fucking into his fist, he hated that that was his first instinct upon waking up.

His mind was running too fast for his liking, the need to fuck, to hit something, to bite something. Ugh, today was going to be so long; already loathing it.

Once back in his room, he moved to get dressed, adorning his cape and sheathed gryphon at his side, leaving his cabin. It didn’t take long for stares and looks to be met his way, very unsurprising to him. He’s sure he reeked. It also didn’t surprise him when he didn’t even get a chance to speak to Benn before being guided in Hongo’s direction.

“Hey Chief, just checking to see if you’re still feeling okay enough to be outside today…? Scent aside…” He scrunched his nose, glancing away, not wanting to overwhelm his captain.

Shanks cracked a false smile, lips twitching in unease. “Yep.” He popped the p with enthusiasm. Hongo just rolled his eyes, looking down at a chart, probably a list of things he needed to stock up on at the island they were now docked at.

Benn walked over and stood beside his captain, a calm expression on his usually gruff face, probably trying to ease his captain as much as possible. Everyone was doing that, it seemed. “Oh come on, my ruts can’t be that bad.” He chuckled but was met with blank stares. What a classic way to be called out, he scoffed, walking out towards the deck.

Thankfully, it seemed Mother Nature was on his side, as he was still feeling like he was in pre-rut. That softened his mood the tiniest bit. Benn shouldered Shanks as they walked out to the main deck, preparing to leave the ship and enter the city that the island had to offer.

“You’re pretty composed right now, Chief. Think it’ll last once you’re around the omegas on this island?” He joked, trying to ease something he couldn’t put his finger on… but it appeared as if that attempt was futile.

“Don’t even. I have far more control than most alphas.” He rolled his eyes, a bit uneasy at the idea of being expected to fuck other omegas when he always only had one in mind. He didn’t want to think about him right now though, knowing it would sour his mood.

It was quite unbelievable, Benn had always thought. Always confused how such a strong alpha wired his instincts to need someone he hadn’t ever claimed or mated to his knowledge, making every other omega unappetizing to Shanks. 

It was honestly impressive.

The town was quite boisterous, which was a good sign. Children running around and playing, people outside trying to sell things at their markets, tourists being drawn into scams, spirits were high. The morning sun rising further into the sky added to the appeal.

“This place seems healthy since the last time we were here,” Benn cleared his throat, walking beside his captain, still on alert. Shanks took a deep breath in, senses far more intensified. He could smell everything. Freshly baked bread, caught salmon, and dessert from a bakery across the town’s large fountain. It was overwhelming as much as it was soothing.

“Mh. Why don’t we have a look at the blacksmith? I want to check out some weapons for the others and new recruits.” Shanks asked, as if Benn would deny his captain anything. 

They walked around a bit, memorizing their way around the city. It was lengthy, larger than it had been before. The more they walked and looked around at other shops, the more of everything Shanks had the displeasure of smelling. It was stressing him out slightly, all the other alphas or omegas around him.

They made their way into the blacksmith, checking things out, the smell of iron and copper filled the atmosphere, masking the strong odors of others. He was silently grateful for it, wanting to take his time and stay in this store a while.

He and Benn had glanced over many weapons, the shopkeeper asking the obvious questions, clearly a bit nervous at first glance. A lot of the citizens were, it wasn’t uncommon to be afraid of one of the four Emperors.

Shanks was aware of the effect he had on people, which is why it was a lot more stressful and difficult to keep up with the gentle act when he was fighting his own instincts inside, knowing his rut wasn’t far off making him all the more agitated. But he tried his best not to let it seep through his expression, lifting a soft smile now and then.

The blacksmith had shown him a rather fine sword, something he’s sure one of his new rookies might enjoy. Commenting on it, he then moved over to a display case that was exhibiting bullets and numerous other guns. Yassop would like this, even Benn took a liking to some of them, which didn’t surprise the Emperor at all.

Once they were finished eyeing a few items, Benn ended up spending a good chunk of his berri, Shanks waited to the side, leaving the building with Benn once he was done. They stepped back out into the warmth of the sun. “Aw, you do have a heart. Got Yassop some new bullets,” Shanks joked, nudging his first mate, causing the other to scoff gruffly.

“They could be mine,” He answered plainly, but Shanks knew Benn. “You don’t like the extra heavy bullets,” The captain smirked, making the other roll his eyes. “You got me. Now let’s go meet up with the others, unless you want to explore more shops? I don’t want you to get overwhelmed.” He admitted, a slight furrow of his brows displayed.

“Yeah uh, that bakery smells good.” The redhead added, pointing in a certain direction. Benn spared a slight glance over, nodding. “You and your sweet tooth, even now?” He chuckled, making Shanks tug a slight smile.

Once inside, the two were met with many cakes on display, some in fun colors, others in soft colors, or boring shades of white or grey. Many other pastries were displayed on the other side of the glass case. Beckman walked away once a croissant met his eye, leaving Shanks to look at the parfaits and other treats.

Everything was fine, until his senses banged their way into his brain, suddenly aware of all the scents around him, not just food. Omegas all around him laughed and did their own thing, one woman with blonde hair pointing to a purple cake, in awe. She reeked, in return making Shanks queasy.

He gasped softly, fangs aching. He wanted to bite into something, feel it bleed down his teeth. He craved it so much that it made him let out a slight growl, Benn immediately shooting his head up. The latter wasted no time walking back over to his captain, confused and concerned expressions grew on his face.

Everyone in the room grew quieter, the girl letting out a yelp and stepping back with her friend, apologizing to the emperor, a drop of sweat clinging to her forehead. But Shanks felt immense guilt. He hadn’t meant to startle anyone, really…

“What happened? Everything’s fine Shanks, just breathe.” He tried to calm him down, whispering so no one would hear. He didn’t fail to notice the way the redhead was clenching his fists, jaw tight. “I’m assuming you’re not in the mood for dessert anymore?” He tried to joke, making the other glare.

“Benn. I’m fine, just…” He squeezed his eyes shut, the smell of other omegas making their way through his nose, causing a wave of nausea to crash over him. There were too many… too many omegas, too many alphas. His instincts saw it as competition, it angered him and he fucking hated that.

Every time he tried to breathe, he’d get hit with more unwelcome pheromones. It was overwhelming him to no end, and he didn’t miss the way his stomach turned, or how his mouth started watering with displeasure at the frequent scent being forced upon his hypersensitive nose.

“Fuck, I need to get out of here,” Shanks silently panicked, breath coming in ragged. He needed to leave, already feeling sick to his stomach. His mind was racing with possibilities he hated, making his head spin. The emperor quickly left the bakery, walking outside and turning into an alleyway just in time to heave over a patch of grass.

“Chief—“ Benn called out, stopping just a few feet away from him, eyebrows furrowing in worry. “What happened?” He asked, walking to his side and patting his back. Shanks just moved his hand to rest on the wall as he vomited out whatever he had eaten last night, squeezing his eyes shut at the sight.

His nails scraped the rough brick of the wall before he spit, coughing and wiping his mouth. “I’m fine,” He panted, vision blurring slightly at the roughness his stomach just put him through. Benn frowned, knowing. This wasn’t the first time this happened. A reason Hongo frequently recommended Shanks to stay inside during his ruts over the years. “Chief, we can always go back—“ 

“I don’t want to!” Shanks interrupted, snapping, pupils shrinking. “I don’t want to… I- I’m fine! It’s not a big deal, seriously. Just— just got overwhelmed.” He said, voice trembling from the overwhelming emotions and sensations coursing through him. He groaned as another wave of nausea hit the second he caught another whiff of omega pheromones. It was fucking disgusting, he hated it. Hated his body.

“I can handle it.” He breathed out roughly, making Benn quirk an eyebrow. “Captain.” Benn sighed, ignoring the foul stench of Shanks’s pheromones mixed with the mess his stomach heaved out. “You‘ve gotta stop this idea that your natural instincts and body are a weakness. You don’t always have to tough it out,” He reassured in his usual stoic voice.

Shanks calmed slightly at the thought of Benn understanding. But that didn’t make it any less humiliating. He rested his back against the wall, still trying to control his breathing, the ache in his fangs seriously bothering him. The latter wiped a thin sheet of sweat behind his neck, clearing his throat. “That doesn’t mean I can’t have opinions on it.” He grumbled.

“C’mon, let’s go somewhere with less stench. Don’t want this to happen again,” Benn sighed, releasing calm pheromones or at least attempting to, encouraging his captain to ignore his instincts if he wanted to walk around the area more. To which, he obliged, walking in tandem with his first mate, hand twitching as he tried not to grip his sword.

A brush grazed through silk black hair, Alvida listening in on Buggy talking about how he hated how his nose shade never quite matched his lipstick. They were in one of the beauty stores in town, having docked a few hours ago. “Alvida, seriously. Can we leave here soon? My bag is practically full. That brush isn’t even that cute.” He scoffed, eyeing her.

“Go to another fucking store then? I think Cabaji and Mohji went to that thrift store, they were talking about finding trinkets for their new circus act they wanted to try out.” She hissed out, looking in one of the mirrors the store had to offer as she set the brush down, fixing her mascara.

“You’re worse than me sometimes.” Buggy huffed, begrudgingly leaving the store. He tried to fix his appearance up as much as possible in there, but shit, Alvida took a while, complaining about how she needed to stock up on makeup she’d run out of, clearly that meant everything. It was overstimulating in bright stores sometimes, especially since he was in preheat, knowing how easily agitated he could get.

If Buggy were still in there, he’d call her selfish or a narcissist. But he’s sure she’s heard it enough from him. He scoffed as he carried the heavy bag around the city; a few restaurants caught his nose, the smell tempting. But he really didn’t have an appetite, knowing what he was in for the next couple of days all thanks to Alvida. 

He bit the inside of his cheek, not even wanting to think about it right now. He wasn’t in heat, and it was fine, everything was fine.

There were a few other stores that had caught his eye, a clothing store that looked promising. Maybe this was one of the spots Alvida had mentioned prior to coming to the island. He tilted his head as he read the name of the shop aloud to himself before walking in.

The man groaned at how warm it was in there, already adding on to his previous hot flash he was experiencing. He fanned his sweat-glowing face with his hand, being greeted by the shopkeeper before getting a good look around the store. It was bright, really fucking bright; he couldn’t help but squint his eyes.

For some reason, it made him all the more aware of how potent his pre-heat was. Fuck, it really was getting bad; he even thought about going back to his ship. He really needed to find a pharmacy to stock up on his needs before then. He had the time, he supposed. For now, he really wanted to see this colorful shirt that caught his eye.

Shanks stepped over a puddle the fountain made as he passed it to get to the other side of the city. It was rather large, he thought. Mermaids around the design in a white pearly stone material. He hesitantly walked with Benn towards the busier side, clothing stores, beauty stores, even massage parlors. “It smells,” Shanks complained, trying his best to not grow even more nauseated than he already was.

He went to cover his nose with his cape by turning his head to the side only to be met with the most mind-numbing, tempting scent of his entire life, making him let out a low growl. It wasn’t like any other omega pheromones he’d had the unfortunateness of breathing in. No, this was different. It made the hairs on his neck stand up, his pupils immediately shrinking trying to locate where it was.

Benn stopped in his tracks as soon as the Emperor did, noticing how stiff and rigid he became. “Something triggering your haki?” The older man questioned quietly, already on alert… But he couldn’t sense any problems. The air just smelt like a mix of the entire town, and its people. Confused, he stood in front of the other man, waving his hand in front of the other’s face.

“Hello? Earth to Shanks?” He joked, the redhead finally snapping out of whatever thoughts he was in. “Sorry, just smell something.” He replied, scrunching his nose now that other omegas masked that scent, pissing him off. He didn’t want to lose it. Benn stared blankly, and Shanks knew what he was going to ask without even opening his mouth. “A good scent.” He added, making the first mate’s eyebrows raise.

“Oh, really?” He chuckled, moving his head to smell in the direction. “It doesn’t smell like anything special to me, wanna go check it out–?” He spoke but stopped, breath hitching in surprise. Shanks was already gone and walking in that direction. This guy. Seriously. He has control of himself, and then he doesn’t. Suppose that’s a large downside as an emperor of the sea going through a pre-rut.

Shanks walked as fast as he could to chase the scent. It was a delicate blend of rum, something sweet like cream? And maybe cherries. He couldn’t point out all of it, but he needed more; it was so faint it made his head spin, afraid to lose the scent.

His body moved on its own as his instincts were desperate to find the source of the pheromones, so familiar— he couldn’t put his finger on why; it stressed him further than he already was, causing him to let out an annoyed groan.

A… clothing store? His brows furrowed in confusion. He ignored all of the nervous stares brought his way. Was he seriously that intimidating to be near? His haki was under control, thankfully. 

He breathed in deeply before opening the door, adjusting to relax himself. The shopkeeper smiled, a nice young lady. “Hello! Welcome, sir, is there a-anything in particular you’re looking for?” She spoke nervously, twiddling her fingers. Shanks returned her a warm smile, raising his hand in calm surrender. “Don’t be so uptight, just browsing.” He managed to say, thankful for keeping his easy-going tone and demeanor without breaking character.

She waved him off and allowed him to do his thing, which he was thankful for. He was not in the mood to be asked a million questions. He walked down a few different clothing aisles, realizing he was in the women’s section, he quickly left for the men's.

The clothes here were actually really nice, Lime Juice might like this place, he noted. He also noticed how strong the scent got, pulling him closer and towards another rack of clothes to his left, blissfully sniffing the air like some weirdo.

He went to look at a pair of pants with a floral pattern when he abruptly stopped at the sight next to him just several feet away. He rubbed his eyes with his hand, trying to see if he wasn’t dreaming. His eyes widened at the realization, mouth slightly falling open. Blue hair… that nose. Holy shit.

“Buggy!” He practically flung himself at the smaller man, causing him to yelp. They both stumbled back, the clown very thankful for the wall behind them being so close that he managed not to fall on his ass, being caught by it.

“Shanks!? What the fuck!” He screeched, immediately panicking. What was he doing here— why was he here?! “What the fuck!?” He repeated, this time more abruptly. He used his hands to push on Shanks’ large chest, shoving the brute off of him like he was some misbehaving dog. “Buggy! It’s really you!” His face was insanely bright, the biggest, dopiest smile plastered on his lips.

Buggy squinted, backing away until he realized he was up against the wall, sighing loudly. “Yeah, whatever. Mind telling me what the hell you’re doing here? Are you stalking me!?” He hissed out, ignoring the fact this was literally his island and he had every right to be showing his face here.

Shanks immediately shook his head, trying to step closer. “No, no! My crew and I came here to stock up on supplies. I swear I had no idea you were here.” He tried to soothe the vicious atmosphere, placing a hand on Buggy’s arm and feeling it up.

“Woah you’re— you’re like real, like actually,” He couldn’t help but laugh in astonishment. He hadn’t seen Buggy since Marineford. And he hated how fast the clown was to leave once they got to the nearest island. And Buggy was an emperor now… Such big accomplishments. There was so much to catch up on that it made the redhead's head spin.

Buggy smacked him across the face, not too hard but hard enough to sting. “Stop touching me you pervert! Yes, I’m real! Ahem, the one and only Buggy the genius jester,” He flipped his hair dramatically to get his flaunting across. Shanks didn’t bite back, just stared at him like he was the most precious thing in the world.

The alpha wasted no time shoving his face in Buggy’s neck unprovoked. “You smell so good…” He groaned, shoving them both further onto the wall making Buggy gasp at the obscenity. He tried to shove the larger man off, to no avail. Why was he acting like a fucking maniac?! Buggy grumbled, unsure of what to do.

“I knew it was you.” He inhaled sharply before pulling away and staring deep into Buggy’s eyes. “I could smell you from across the city, I knew it was familiar.” He smiled, making Buggy stare blankly, unimpressed. “So you’re just a pervert.” The omega snickered, making Shanks pout.

“No! I just…” He trailed off, face suddenly going dark. He breathed into the soft strands of Buggy’s blue hair, and diving back into his neck again, pissing the other off. “Seriously, what’s gotten into you!?” Buggy finally shoved Shanks away, but the other just stood there… making the clowns’ stomach flip.

“Buggy… are you seeing someone?” He frowned deeply, he knew he wasn’t crazy. He could smell other alphas on Buggy. He hated that there was more than one, and he knew it was Mihawk and Crocodile, with the light hints of cigar smoke and wine. Not to mention he was aware of the recent news of the new organization Buggy was affiliated with. He thought Crossguild was a stupid name, Buggy would be way better off with him.

Shanks’ jealousy was immediate. Even if he tried to hide it, there was no way you couldn’t see it on his face. “What the hell do Crocodile and Mihawk want with you to the point they’re on your scent?” He growled sharply, pupils shrinking.

The smaller man just scoffed, rolling his eyes, trying to hide the nervousness and slight fear creeping up his neck. The hairs on his body standing up. “No, no it’s not like that. They’re my business partners, you buffoon!”

 He couldn’t believe this guy. An emperor of the sea and he gets upset over him being around other alphas, it’s not like they were even dating or mated or anything? The nerve Shanks had sometimes, Buggy wanted to spit in his face.

That did very little to ease the alpha's worries, making the smaller man rest his head on the wall, getting a good look at his old friend. “You’re still stupidly ugly.” Handsome is what he wanted to say, but he couldn’t feed Shanks’s ego even more.

The Emperor just chuckled, looking the omega up and down. “You’re as beautiful as ever,” He purred out, sweetness disgustingly thick in his tone as he leaned in. Buggy’s lip twitched, he would normally revel in that compliment but it was coming from this big annoying asshole, so he stuck to flipping him off.

“You smell delicious,” Shanks groaned, his breath ghosting over sensitive skin, when did his face get back in between his neck?! Buggy gasped, This wasn’t good for his oncoming heat at all, the realization finally dawned. “Shanks— you big idiot, get off!” He fidgeted, shoving the larger man but he just kept coming back, ugh! “Shanks! Seriously, are you listening to me!?” He growled, making Shanks growl back. 

Buggy’s own instincts went haywire at the alpha's growl, making him let out a whimper, legs wobbling. What? Shanks had never done that. “Sh-Shanks?” Buggy asked with a voice much more alert this time, slightly trembling. It was then that it hit him, the sudden clinginess, the way the pervert snuffed him out like a hound dog, his emotions being all over the place.

“There’s no way.” Buggy stared blankly at his red hair, his face too busy repeatedly inhaling Buggy’s scent gland on his neck. How on earth did… His mind slowly pieced everything together, the gears in his brain moving. “Shanks, are you in rut?” He tried to ask as calmly as possible, eyes widening by the second. This was not good at all.

Shanks suddenly finally decided to become self-aware and became a victim of humiliation, whipping his head away in a heartbeat, looking around the store. Thankfully, it was too busy for anyone to notice them at the back; it wouldn’t be long until people started to smell their predicament.

Shanks gasped, “Shit— ‘m sorry, Bugs, I… I don’t know what came over me,” He panicked, staring down at himself and seeing how hard he was. He felt like a piece of shit, throwing himself at Buggy and getting up in his business unprovoked.

Shanks really smelled. It was hard not to notice his musky pheromones being thrown all over the place. Even worse, it helped trigger Buggy’s heat. His instincts knew how horribly he craved the alpha; really, the only alpha his body wanted was Shanks, always had been. Always will be.

“Fuck,” Buggy whimpered, losing his balance as an intense wave of heat washed over him, immediately feeling a warm wetness drip out of him, making him blush with embarrassment. Curse Shanks and his stupid fucking charm! This was all his fault, everything is always his fault! He’s so horribly good at making situations worse when it came to Buggy.

“Shanks I- I really need to leave…” He stuttered out, ignoring the thickness of slick dampening his underwear, to which he was sure Shanks could smell. The alpha literally started drooling, breath hitching. “Bugs— holy shit, you smell so good…” He moaned, Buggy’s sudden heat triggering his rut. This was a fucking nightmare, Buggy panicked.

Shanks leaned back in with little protest, Buggy’s body already wanting to accept him. It wouldn’t be the first time. The alpha's fangs obnoxiously ached further, licking his teeth at the thought of sinking them into Buggy’s nape, sending a satisfied shiver down his body. He hovered his mouth above his scent gland, Buggy whining in response, his pheromones leaking beautifully.

His instincts were screaming at him to claim him, to bite down until he could taste the metallic smoothness of blood, to secure his bond with Buggy after all these years of playing cat and mouse. He couldn’t help but be lulled into the pure seduction of the omega's sweetness.

Before he could bite into Buggy’s neck, because that was his first instinct, a rough hand yanked the collar of his cape and shirt back, choking him briefly. “Chief!” Benn hissed out, like a parent scolding their child. “Are you insane? We’re in public! Snap out of it!” He growled, but Shanks was too far gone, wasting no time to growl back in retaliation.

“Chief. Seriously, what…” He glanced over to look at Buggy. Oh… Oh. Benn knew exactly who he was; the one person Shanks would always talk about either when he were too many drinks in, or the person he’d begged for during his ruts all those years ago. He met him at Marineford, and wouldn’t say he was very pleasant to be around, but to be fair, Benn wasn’t quite fond of clowns. His captain can stick to that, so he wishes.

The right-hand man sighed loudly, closing his eyes as if trying to calculate something before opening his mouth. “Buggy. Pardon me for asking such a personal question, but are you in heat?” He questioned, his grip on Shanks turning deadly.

Buggy shivered at another wave of warmth surging through him, fluttering his eyes, clearly dizzy. “N-No, I wasn’t… not until this fucking idiot—” Buggy groaned, using his shoulders and elbows to support himself on the wall. The realization made its way to Benn, “Ah. Makes sense, I deeply apologize. My captain here hasn’t been feeling well, and I’m going to assume he triggered your cycle.” 

Fucking captain obvious over here, Buggy grumbled, sitting up straighter. He’s quite certain that the lemon zest he rubbed on his scent glands was clearly not working. Buggy bit his lip, realizing how fucked his situation was. He did not need other alphas finding out about his heat; it was considered disrespectful and whorish to be out in public while in heat.

It seemed Shanks understood the worry too, huffing loudly, finally getting his senses back. “Buggy, why don’t you come on my ship so Hongo can look at you?” He suddenly blurted. It was definitely an excuse, but he’s sure Buggy would fall for it. Benn side-eyed his captain, but made no effort to chime in.

“Are you crazy!? Your ship is full of alphas, I won’t be caught dead on that stinky thing!” He hissed out, separating limbs to emphasize his words, something he did when he was feeling strong emotions. 

Shanks just stared blankly, lip curling at the idea of other alphas, not fond of the mere mention. “Other alphas that obey me.” He grumbled, stepping closer, Benn on alert, watching his movements. “They won’t lay a finger on you, I can assure that.” His eyes flick over to Buggy’s neck before making deep eye contact, as if saying something silently only Buggy could understand. 

“Bugs,” He asked again, eyes pleading. Buggy just shifted on one foot to the other uncomfortably, unsure of what to do. Before he could make up his mind, Benn pulled his captain in for a hushed discussion, the tension in the air rising. “Chief, are you sure about this?” The older man whispered harshly, eyebrows knitted.

Shanks sighed, calming himself and his instincts down, along with trying to reel in his own needs; his body screaming at him to mark Buggy right here.

The positive thing was that the Red Force had a specific room for alphas when they had their ruts, secluding them from outside the ship to prevent harm to themselves or others. It had come in handy many times, but Shanks really didn’t want to spend a week in there. And with Buggy, it was different. He wouldn’t have to. Buggy always calmed him down; he needed him, just as much as the clown needed him, whether he wanted to ever admit it or not.

Benn was not one to enable his captain's reckless behavior, and right now, he wasn’t in his right mind to decide large things for himself. “What if you get him pregnant?” He stands to the side, further away from Buggy, speaking to Shanks in a far more serious tone.

“Come on, you really think we need kids running around the crew? I’ll be responsible.” Shanks huffed, walking back towards Buggy. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m bringing my omega back to my quarters. Finish up with restocking the ship.” He growled, completely unlike him.

One of the downsides of Shanks’s ruts; he turned into a fucking bastard. Benn’s lip curled at the thought. He needed to find Hongo, even if it’s probably not what the two lovebirds wanted.

Shanks gripped onto Buggy’s hand, leading him out of the store and towards the docks where his ship was. “You smell way too enticing to be out in public.” He groaned, beyond pissed. Of course, Buggy would be so careless as to walk around in heat, letting every alpha on the entire island smell his alluring pheromones.

Buggy just whined, body already reacting to the alpha touching him; his legs felt like jelly, and he hated how vulnerable he felt. “Shanks, I wasn’t in heat…” He mumbled, knowing he wouldn’t win an argument with Shanks right now, not while he was like this.

Shanks ignored him, focusing on getting back to his ship. He walked on the wooden planks leading upwards, helping Buggy step up, lifting his hand for him. “Then why do you smell like that, hm?” He questioned, leading Buggy around the main deck of his ship, his footsteps almost stomping if not for Buggy calming him down slightly.

“I was in preheat, you idiot! I thought you knew, you triggered our cycles because you’re a moron— hey, why are you allowing me on your ship?” He questioned, cutting his own tongue short at the new realization. Growing self-conscious at the idea of other alphas smelling him. When did he agree to board the Red Force? He hadn’t remembered. His mind was such a mess right now.

Shanks really didn’t have the temper to be chewed out by Buggy right now, groaning as he led him into the ship's galley, opening all kinds of doors and whooshing down large hallways until he got to his room, practically swinging his door open with all his might once he let Buggy’s hand go.

He led Buggy inside his room before clicking his door shut, yanking Buggy by his collar, and switching their positions, having Buggy pressed up against the door. “Because, Buggy. I could smell how badly your body needed me at least half a mile away. I didn’t even have to use any observation haki; it was obvious. Did you know you’d run into me?” He spat out lowly, staring at the omega's soft lips, then back up into his big eyes.

Buggy was at a loss for words. Okay, no, he actually didn’t plan on seeing Shanks. His goal was to go shopping and get off the island as soon as possible, but this was a complete disaster.

“No, I just went out shopping with Alvida, and my crew was restocking before we were going to head back to Karai bari…”  The omega looked away, avoiding eye contact at the intensity of Shanks alone. The latter just huffed angrily, “Karai bari? So you were going to go back to Crocodile and Mihawk?” His pupils dilated, his expression not only flickering to something jealous, but also a mix of hurt. Fangs out and glaring into Buggy’s cornea. 

The smaller man just shoved him roughly, catching Shanks off guard. “Why are you so worried? Do you seriously think I’m fucking them?!” Buggy growled, a low, challenging vibration seeping into Shank’s bones. 

His retaliation is not expected, considering his usual kind and gentle habitual nature.

Buggy yelps as Shanks grabs his collar and shakes him, pure rage pooling into his dark eyes. “Yes! I can fucking smell them all over you,” He calms down at the end of his sentence, breath hitching at the realization of what he’s doing. He eases his movements, tone lowering softly.

“Buggy… are you with them?” His expression sours, a slight pout on his face. Of course Shanks would be such an idiot to assume the worst. God forbid he had the rough stench of alphas he worked with, Buggy rolled his eyes.

“No! No, I’m not having sex with them and we’re not— are you stupid?!” He groans, needing to be let go. He was too stressed to realize how bad his heat was creeping up on him.

Before he can utter another curse his knees buckle, making him whimper at the sheer intensity he felt of his heat crashing into him like a thousand waves. Shanks skillfully caught him, eyes full of worry before giving in to his instincts.

“Hey, you’re okay… Do you want to lie down?” He whispered softly into the shell of Buggy’s ear, making his breath hitch. “No, No– I just need… I need…” He didn’t want to admit how aggressively he craved Shanks, but he’s sure the other understood, still, he was gentle after being so violent.

Shanks tenderly brought Buggy down on the floor with him against his door, kissing down his neck slowly. “Just tell me what you need, sweet thing, I’ll give you anything. You know that,” He chuckled breathily, looking down into Buggy’s eyes as he brought his hand out to caress his jaw, movements possessive but masked with gentleness.

Buggy sniffled, feeling so vulnerable and humiliated. He hated how his heat made him so desperate. Fuck whatever. He really didn’t have the brain cells to care enough right now, giving into his nature.

“Fuck, Shanks,” He whimpered softly, a silent beg. Tears already slowly dropping down his eyelashes, adding to his allure. Shanks groaned, getting more drunk off of the omega's pheromones by the second, fangs aching. He isn’t sure if he’d be able to keep himself from sinking them in and marking the sweet omega below him.

“Shh, gonna make you so full of me, you’ll smell like me for months.” He growled low at the thought of other alphas smelling his scent off of the other, a light smirk unable to resist tugging at his lips.

He couldn’t help himself, already rubbing his face around Buggy’s wrists and neck like an animal, needing his scent everywhere. The other just whined in protest fighting his own instincts, upsetting Shanks. He’d give in soon, he’s sure of it.

Buggy cried out at a nip Shanks gave him on his nape, jolting his heat straight back through him. He shivered as he felt the sticky warmth of slick seeping down his thighs past his underwear, unable to control just how much was pooling out. He couldn’t help but let out a moan, making the alpha above him start practically drooling.

“I can smell how wet you already are for me,” Shanks growled, forcing Buggy to submit, watching with satisfaction as the omega lay there below him, body begging for his knot already.

“Such a good boy, already submitting for me, hm? Need my knot that bad?” He panted, attempting to rip his own pants off without a second heartbeat, stopping once he noticed Buggy, too infatuated with the sight to think clearly.

Buggy’s legs shook, whimpering at how sweaty his body felt, he was sure his face was tinted red. The latter wanted to give in so badly and just let the Emperor take him, but he still apparently had one brain cell left, saving him from humiliation. Not even a blink later and he ran across the room away from Shanks.

The Emperor immediately stood up, stunned but not surprised. “Bugs, are you serious?” He laughed breathily, shoulders slightly shaking in tandem. The omega just panted roughly, too dazed from his heat to think straight, turning it into a game wouldn’t be so bad… At least that’s what a small portion of his brain was saying. Of course he listened to it if it meant annoying Shanks.

Shanks wasted no time lunging forward to grab the other, Buggy quickly jumped on the bed and crawled to the other side, standing there with a feverish gaze. Shanks stood there and scoffed, licking the inside of his cheek, looking Buggy up and down with half-lidded eyes. “You sure you wanna play this kind of game with me?” He glared, ignoring how hard he was, tugging his pants back up.

Buggy felt a rush of adrenaline through his body at the challenge at hand. If Shanks thinks he can catch him so easily he must be mistaken, he giggled. “What does the winner get?” He spoke softly, seductiveness thick in his tone. Shanks shook slightly, body shivering at the words.

“Whatever they want. For example…” He trailed off, stalking across the bed towards Buggy, making the omega back away in return. He stopped, testing the waters. “If I win, you’ll let me do whatever I want, even if it’s marking you.” 

Buggy gasped, eyes wide. “Are you insane?! I— I have a crew to get back to!” His eyebrows twitched, the situation dawning on him, but his ego didn’t care. If Shanks was serious about marking him; he wouldn’t be able to go back to Karai Bari…

It’s on instinct that a claimed individual can’t really be separated from their partner for too long, needing to be near their scent constantly. That sounds like hell to him! “You’re not doing that to me.” Buggy growled low, making Shanks smirk darkly. “We’ll see,”

The smaller man wasted absolutely zero time bolting out of the room, not exactly sure where he was headed but remembered the redhead's ship a bit from when he was on it after Marineford. His quick footsteps tapped against the wood roughly as he ran down a separate hallway, finding a storage room with crates. This looked easy to hide in?

Shanks frowned, he didn’t even get to finish explaining his conditions. Whatever, he should’ve expected this from Buggy. Sighing, the redhead gave the other man a rough thirty seconds before stepping out of his room.

Shanks sniffed the air, his entire ship smelled like Buggy, frustrating him slightly. His heat pheromones were so potent it was almost angering. He quickly shoved away the thoughts of Crossguild, Crocodile and Mihawk. Shanks scoffed at the thought, not wanting to think about them right now. He made his way down a staircase, reaching a hallway where the scent grew stronger, his pace quickening.

Buggy threw a sock into a different room moments prior, rubbing his scent on it to throw the alpha off. He panted as he hid behind a few crates in the corner, successfully squeezing his body to fit; covering his mouth to muffle his breathing.

Rough but calculated footsteps made their way down the wooden hallway, Shanks made a silent promise to not use his haki, he didn’t feel like cheating today. He looked in cabinets, even large drawers he found in empty rooms. 

It didn’t take long for the Alpha to grow frustrated, sexually and mentally. “Buggy?” He called out, almost a warning, panting as he passed more rooms, steps echoing at all the empty spaces. He was somewhat surprised but glad there wasn’t anyone down here or even on the ship at all really, suppose everyone is out on the island gathering supplies or doing other things.

The omega's scent grew thick and heavy, filling all of his senses and making his cock twitch along with a groan that escaped his throat. He blindly followed it until he reached a door, a door to one of his armories? He almost laughed at the gesture, if Buggy was hiding here that would be hard to get out of. It was usually very packed.

He creaked open the door teasingly, sniffing the air like a wild animal, eyes trailing around the room until he found a sock on the floor, confusing him. He walked over to it, tilting his head as he picked it up, recognizing it as one of Buggy’s.

Unfortunately, Shanks isn’t as stupid as Buggy thinks he is, he knows this is a decoy.

He couldn’t help the light chuckle that escaped him, he got up from the crouched position he was in, leaving the room with a quiet shut of the door.

Buggy shifted slightly, the position he was in grew uncomfortable and he really just wanted Shanks inside him. Unfortunately, now that he accidentally started this game there was no going back, trying his best to ignore his instincts and his worsening heat. Said heat making him forget to use his devil fruit as an advantage.

Shanks walked around a corner after checking a few other rooms, being met with his storage room at the very end of the hall, the door left open. He hadn’t recalled ever opening it? 

He couldn’t help but drool slightly like a rabid dog, smelling nothing but the omega the closer he got. The realization made his lips curl in silent triumph.

Buggy crawled away from his original spot, eyebrows furrowing in genuine focus as he tried to find a new spot, hidden by the large crates displayed around the room. He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to ignore the heat cramps that crept up his lower abdomen. Familiar footsteps echoed through the room, causing his stomach to drop and eyes to fling open. Fuck— fuck, fuck, fuck.

Buggy doesn’t think he’s ever sat this still in his entire life, like he was actually being tracked by a predator, making him feel small and vulnerable. His hand slowly covered his mouth, eyes darting around the room once he lost sight of the shadowed footsteps that belonged to the Emperor.

He’d never felt like prey up until now, and he was quick to realize how much the adrenaline turned him on.

He heard footsteps echo and slowly fade, making him let out a breath, thankful that Shanks didn’t really look around. That impatient idiot, he wanted to laugh. He crawled to a more open spot where he could see the room more clearly, no sight of Shanks. 

He sat there for a bit, just in case he came back and he needed to shuffle back into his original spot. 

Just as he was about to stand, his senses were brought back once the slightest amount of adrenaline ran off, his nose filled with nothing but the redhead's pheromones; hints of lemon, liquor, and musk, making him gasp loudly. He flipped his head around so fast he almost gave himself whiplash. There, sitting on a crate watching him with a predatory gaze was Shanks.

“Hi Bugs,” The alpha announced himself lowly, voice thick with need as he slowly made his way off the crate, his cape slithering down the wood once his body was off; following behind him like a shadow. His movements were smooth like an animal, preparing to pounce. “You— you cheated!” Buggy yelped, backing so far away his head hit the wall with a loud thud.

Shanks stopped in his tracks, brows furrowing in confusion. “I didn’t use my haki.” He stated, raw and genuine. The smaller man panicked, slowly making his way to the door, Shanks noticed. “Then how did you find me so easily!?” Buggy shrieked, pointing a finger as if everything was all Shanks’s fault, because of course it was, the latter chuckled.

“I could smell you throughout the whole ship. It was easy enough to follow your sweet scent. Now, be a good boy and let me claim you so no other alpha will bother a second glance.” He said, no, demanded. What was it with other alphas? Buggy silently questioned, amazed at how Shanks’s jealousy surpassed normality.

If Shanks thought Buggy was going to give up as easily as that, he must be a fool. The clown turned on his heel as if to walk toward the taller man, only to bolt away and run out the door. 

The Emperor shut his eyes, inhaling a deep breath to calm his nerves. Absolutely done and over with Buggy’s games.

Shanks ran after Buggy, catching up to him in seconds. He yanked him by his silky blue hair, catching him like a mouse between a cat’s claws. “Where do you think you’re going?” He laughed, bringing Buggy’s face to his, forcing eye contact. Buggy just hissed out, baring his teeth like defenseless prey. “Fuck off! This is cheating!” He tried again, making Shanks roll his eyes.

“You think everything is cheating if it’s you not winning.” The Emperor huffed, grunting slightly as he hauled Buggy over his shoulder, walking back towards his private quarters. Shanks was quietly surprised that the other did little to protest besides a few kicks in the air.

The feeling of the Alpha gripping onto him and holding him made Buggy’s instincts purr. He craved Shanks so fucking badly he felt it in his nervous system. If only he weren’t so embarrassed to give in, he might’ve never made this into a game to begin with. “Shanks…” He whined, feeling how damp his thighs and ass were with slick. It made something within him twitch with electrifying need.

He hated how uncomfortable he felt, hated the slight ache from his cramps, the gross dampness of his own slick. He knew Shanks would make him feel better, help him through it all. But he really fucking hated relying on him or giving himself up him. He didn’t want Shanks to grow a habit of thinking he deserved the right to Buggy.

The redhead shut the door with his foot once they made it back, tossing Buggy on his bed, this time not so gentle. Hearing the door lock with a soft click, the smaller man immediately backed up on the bed far enough until his back hit the headboard, knowing what came next in a deliciously anxious way.

The Emperor's eyes instantly met Buggy’s, a primal glare burning into his gaze. “You waltz onto my island,” The alpha started, crawling onto the large bed. “Parade your scent all over for everyone to smell,” Sharp teeth glinting as he spoke, crawling closer, making Buggy whimper. “And you have the audacity to run away from me when I can fucking smell how bad you want me.” 

He glared down into Buggy’s eyes once he was within an arms length, pinning him down. “I’ve wanted to do this for years. Dreamt about it, really.” His tone softened, eyes fading from anger to desperation. “You want this just as much as I do, right Bugs?” It was impressive how fast his attitude could switch around the omega.

Buggy’s jaw trembled as he tried to find words, he should be panicking but he didn’t have the strength to keep lying to himself anymore. “Shanks I—I…” He shuddered, body relaxing under the hold of the alpha. “Yes— Fuck Yes, I do!” He whined, squirming as he cringed at his own confession. He didn’t care if he sounded desperate anymore, he just needed this oversized, stupid alpha on him before he loses his mind.

Shanks couldn’t resist his desires anymore, reaching down to bite Buggy’s nape.

The omega let out a panicked yelp, nipping at Shanks and nudging him off before he could sink his teeth in, making the alpha whimper in rejection. “N—Not yet you maniac!” Buggy huffed. Shanks taking this as a chance to kiss him instead. 

“‘M sorry baby,” The Emperor muttered in between heated kisses. The room fell silent aside from occasional waves crashing on the shore, a window slightly cracked open to let fresh air in. Shanks deepened the kiss, sliding his tongue in the omega's mouth, tasting him in his own way.

Buggy couldn’t help but finally give in to his desires, and instincts. He let out a soft gasp as he felt Shanks’s tongue dive into his mouth, he wanted to be grossed out but he enjoyed it in an odd way; opening his jaw to allow the alpha further access.

Shanks’s hand moved to gently hold the back of Buggy’s head, threading through his soft blue hair as he kissed him deeper with a muffled moan. The redheads’ legs straddled in between Buggy’s opening the omegas’ legs. 

He moved his mouth off of Buggy with a pop, both their lips glossy with their mixed saliva, he didn’t have to look in a mirror to know the blue haired man's lipstick was smudged all over his face. “Taste so good, my omega,” He growled lowly, growing more possessive by the second at the thought of finally being alone with him.

Buggy just snarled, looking Shanks’s large form up and down. “I’m not your omega!” He whined as Shanks pressed an open mouth kiss to his throat, legs trembling slightly. The desperate need to take his clothes off swallowing him whole, his skin sticky with sweat, far too uncomfortable to stay clothed during his heat.

“We’ll see about that,” Shanks grinned before tugging at his own pants. He wriggled out of them along with his briefs, tossing them on the floor somewhere; freeing his large cock. Buggy had to restrain a moan from escaping, his body already shivering with pure need for it. Unfortunately Shanks was aware of the effect he had on him.

Buggy whined sharply as Shanks moved his hand to fumble with his pants next, assisting him. They both struggled with his buttons, making Buggy want to sob. Fuck he was so emotional when in heat, he hated it.

“Shanks…” He sniffled, tears pricking at his eyes in frustration. “I know baby, hold on,” Shanks spoke rather softly for how desperate he was yanking his pants. He ended up tearing them off completely in a fit of frustration, Buggy squirming to roll them off as they were tossed on the floor.

The emperor wanted Buggy all to himself, every part of him. Seeing him still covered in a shirt just wouldn’t do. He reached a hand to pull it off Buggy in a swift motion, knowing the other would protest, he took his own shirt off too, leaving the pair both naked and panting roughly.

Shanks let out a carnal groan at the sight of Buggy, all flushed and spread out, seeing how hard he was and his slick gushing out of his hole just begging to be fucked and bred. It made his cock throb, he’d never been so turned on in his life. 

Buggy’s instincts were screaming at him to flip onto his stomach and present for Shanks, let him rut into him and knock him up, but everytime he tried to squirm, Shanks held him down harder, making him let out a frustrated whine. “Shanks I swear to God if you don’t fuck me,” He hissed out, not in the mood for games.

The larger man just chuckled, leaning over the nightstand to grab a condom. He wasn’t stupid, as much as he wanted to actually breed this bratty omega below him. He came back between his soft legs, taking the condom with his teeth, ripping it open.

Buggy looked up, realizing what that was, pouting immediately. “No, no, why?” He sat up, looking seconds away from bursting into tears. Shanks was immediately confused, tilting his head slightly as he took the condom and prepared to wrap it around his length. “What’s wrong baby?”

“Please don’t use a condom. I want you to cum inside— it’s not fair!” He whined, reaching a hand out to try and stop Shanks, making the other stare in disbelief. “You… don’t want protection?” He answered, staring blankly, face immediately turning a few shades pinker. 

“No! Why would you want that? I want you to fuck me raw you idiot! please— please don’t use that…” He begged, squirming to get away from this iron grip Shanks’ leg had on him. The other man just stared in awe, as if he just opened a treasure full of jewels. 

“Thank God.” Shanks huffed, pulling the condom off and throwing it somewhere. He was not going to admit that Hongo urged him to use condoms, since no one on board wanted some annoying rascals running around. But… Buggy’s wishes out-shined anybody’s in Shanks’s ears. 

Shanks leaned down to whispered in the shell of Buggy’s ear. “You want me to breed you that bad, hm? Pump you so full of my pups you’ll cry for more?” He chuckled breathily, fangs glinting, intimidating on a new level.

Buggy couldn’t hide the soft moan he let out, the heavy scent of his slick very apparent in the small atmosphere they shared. “F-Fuck… Shanks please just fuck me,” He mumbled shyly, thin of patience as his omega instincts took over, atypically submitting to the alpha above him. 

He shivered as Shanks moved backward, laying on his stomach and grabbing Buggy’s thigh to move him closer to his face, his lower abdomen front and center for the alpha. “You smell so fucking good,” Shanks groaned before immediately shoving his face into Buggy’s asscheeks, making him yelp in surprise.

“Sh-Shanks what the hell— Mmh!” His complaints instantly cut off as he felt the man’s tongue dive all around the rim of his entrance, tasting his sweet slick on his tastebuds with a pleased, muffled noise.

“Been wanting to taste this for so fucking long,” Shanks groaned into his skin, nipping at his thigh before lapping his tongue back and forth on his sensitive entrance, pushing it inside slowly; saliva and slick mixing to make a lewd squelching sound.

Shanks growled lowly as he ate the omega out like his life was on the line, repeatedly thrusting his tongue in and out, adams apple bobbing as he swallowed his slick like a hungry dog. It tasted like heaven to the alpha; sweet like cream and a hint of cherries and rum. He decided then and there that it was the best scent in the world, let alone flavor on his tongue.

Buggy melted into the sheets and mattress below him, Shanks turning him into a sweet whimpering mess. “Fuck, Shanks!” He moaned sharply, making the alpha groan back in response, tongue deep inside of the omega.

Shanks kissed Buggy’s thigh, grinning into his skin as he took two fingers and squeezed them inside the clown, using his tongue to lick against them at the same time. The combination of the Emperors wet tongue and large fingers were enough to elicit loud moans from the other. His trembling hands gripping the sweat-damp sheets below him.

He curled his fingers up, scissoring them deeper inside of Buggy, he didn’t need lube for how wet the omega already was; slick gushing out even as lengthy fingers prodded inside of his walls. 

Shanks moved his mouth all around his inner thighs, fingers still fucking slowly inside of the omega. He spread open mouthed kisses sweetly everywhere, biting and marking the plush skin wherever he pleased, making the other whine. 

He was so tight, even just from Shanks’s fingers it didn’t loosen much, making Shanks’s inner alpha purr with need. He curled his fingers even further, making Buggy arch his back with a choked noise. His insides felt so warm and ready for him, and so enticingly drenched. All for him.

Shanks knew he was close, knew he wouldn’t last long being teased this much. He couldn’t help, needing to taste every inch of his skin, needing to make sure his scent stuck everywhere. He tenderly pulled his fingers out, making a lewd sound that in return made his dick twitch In between his legs. A reminder of what he needed most.

Buggy wanted to cry at the loss of his fingers, trying to wriggle his hips lower for Shanks, but he just got a light smack to his thigh instead. “You want to be good for your alpha, right? If you want my knot so bad you’ll be a good boy for me.” He whispered, caressing the spot he smacked. Buggy just whimpered, mind completely numb except for the need to be bred.

“A-Alpha…” Buggy cried out sweetly, trying to present for Shanks, legs spread. The Emperor stared in shock and desire, never would he ever imagine Buggy giving in so much so he’d call him that, it sent all of his blood down south, cock throbbing painfully. “Yeah? I’m your alpha, hm?” He asked, wanting to hear him say it again.

Buggy was too far gone to feel humiliated, legs shaking with need, hole fluttering for Shanks’s cock desperate to feel it. “Yes! Shanks— please! Please Alpha, I’ll do anything!” He begged, thoughts turning to mush. Shanks just moaned, leaning his head back to take in what he was hearing.

He just couldn’t believe it. Bless the seas for being in his favor, making Buggy this sweet, submissive thing below him. Every ounce of his usual bratiness nowhere to be found. Suppose that was his heat talking, though.

Shanks gently aligned his aching cock against Buggy’s entrance, feeling it up and sliding it in between his reddened cheeks before gaining enough slick to sink in slowly. The amount of self control it took the emperor to not give into his instincts screaming at him to rut into the omega, fuck him hard and fast and fill him to the brim with his pups… Was impressive.

He prided himself frequently on his self control, but every time he was around Buggy it’s like it was almost non-existent. Like once he saw that silk blue hair the world around him went quiet; and he was the only thing he could pay his full attention to. Shanks just couldn’t believe he finally had this gorgeous omega below him, begging to be filled. Like his most desired dream had finally come to fruition. 

He was reeled out of his thoughts with an impatient whine coming from Buggy, making him aware of where he was and what— who he was doing. “Yeah baby, I'm right here.” He cooed, assuming Buggy had finally adjusted to his rather large size, he began moving inside the clown all the way until he was buried to the hilt.

The omega just moaned softly, rolling his hips up as if to try and encourage the alpha to move faster. “Such an impatient little thing,” Shanks chuckled, moving his hips and smacking them against Buggy’s ass, finding a steady rhythm.

He couldn’t help but look down in between their tangled limbs, noticing how his dick was hungrily thrusting in and out of Buggy’s plump ass. He didn’t care how desperate he seemed, his omega needed him and he was going to give anything and everything to him. “Fu—Fuck!” Buggy choked out, throwing his head back. 

Shanks took the initiative to go faster, the erotic sound of sweaty skin slapping against skin filling the humid room. “Mmh! Sha—Alpha, it feels so good, please don’t stop!” The omega cried out at Shanks’s newly discovered rhythm, letting his body be rocked back and fourth from the sheer force.

The wooden headboard behind them repeatedly hit the wall, adding onto the noise. Shanks had never been so pleased in his life that his crew wasn’t here, could be as loud as they wanted.

Shanks bit his lip as he continued to fuck into the tight heat below him, rolling his hips in a methodical motion to hit Buggy’s prostate dead on, making him scream. Tanned muscles flexing with each rough movement, Buggy wanted to lick the sweat dripping off of Shanks’s chest.

This was one of the very few times Shanks wished he had both hands, not knowing where to put his other one. In between stroking Buggy off, choking him, or holding one of his shaky hands down. He chose the latter, desperately grabbing onto Buggy’s hand and pinning it next to his head, their fingers interlocking.

“Feel so fucking good for me, Bugs. So tight and wet, so perfect for your Alpha,” He praised, the hairs on his forehead sticking to the warm skin with sweat. His hips jerked, accidentally thrusting deeper, hitting spots he’s sure the omegas never felt before with the way his back arched off the mattress. 

Buggy basked in the praise, eyes rolling back to his skull as he was fucked roughly into the sheets, babbling curses as he held onto Shanks’s head like a lifeline. In a way, it was sweet. Shanks doesn’t remember the last time Buggy voluntarily held his hand.

The Emperor panted roughly, biceps flexing as he moved his hand to feel the slight bulge in Buggy’s lower stomach. The omegas legs thrown over his shoulders as he plunged his length into his tight walls. The moan that came out of the Alphas mouth was nothing short of lewd, seeing how his cock made a faint imprint inside Buggy, being able to see and feel how well the latter was taking him was insanely pleasing.

Buggy’s own dick twitched as he felt himself begin to give in to the pleasure, tingly warmth spreading down his body as he felt his orgasm rushing in. “Alpha, I— I’m so close!  Please, please, knot me, I'll be good!” He begged, looking up into Shanks’s brown eyes with lust and need. And who’d have the heart to refuse such a beautifully fucked out face like that?

Shanks groaned, feeling his knot begin to swell up as he also teetered over the edge of his orgasm. He tried to hold on, not wanting to come so soon, but Buggy’s voice pleading for him like that was so intensely sweet for his usual nature. 

“Mmh, yeah? Gonna cum for your Alpha? Want me to breed you ‘til you’re leaking my pups?” Shanks babbled, helping his omega over the edge. He growled low at the thought; his omega. Fucking right that’s his, Buggy was his, no one else’s. 

The thought of anyone else made him bite his lip so hard he tasted the familiar metallicness of blood. He needed to claim him, needed the omega to think of him every time he looked at his neck, every time he tried to cover his own scent.

Buggy moaned at Shanks’s dirty talk, imaging being filled with his seed so deep it got him pregnant, imagined being bred so good by Shanks it stuck. He whimpered needily at the thought, eyes watering at the pleasure crashing into him like a tidal wave, his breath hitched on a sob as he felt how close he was.

The Emperor’s hips stuttered, getting his rhythm back as soon as it happened, muscles working in overdrive as he rutted into the omega, huffing loudly like a rabid animal. The only thing on Shanks’s rut altered mind was to breed his omega, get him pregnant and full of his pups; claim him so deep no one would even think about walking near him. 

Shanks’s fangs had never ached this horribly since he first presented all those years ago. His pupils shrunk as he stared at the omega's scent gland, unmarked; begging for his teeth to be sunk in the soft flesh.

“Fuck… Buggy,” Shanks moaned, leaning his head down, the smaller man moving his legs to wrap around the others waist in a vice grip, locking them together as Shanks rutted harder into the clown. 

Shanks used this new position to rest his head on Buggy’s collarbone, deeply inhaling the sweet scent of his heat, immediately drooling at the scent of sweet cherries and rum. He could get drunk off of his scent, wanting to shove his face into his neck, or his ass, drink his slick like the finest sake, never wanting to stop. He groaned at the thought, seizing the right moment, he raised his head and opened his jaw.

Buggy’s eyes widened at the realization, releasing the sweetest pheromones for Shanks without realizing. The alpha lowered his head close enough to his nape, licking his own fangs before finally sinking his teeth deep into the omega's scent gland, growling loudly.

Buggy came almost instantly, the feeling of Shanks’s cock, his growing knot, and now his sharp teeth digging into his neck. It was too much for him, screaming and crying out as his orgasm washed over him, staining his own stomach and some of the sheets. Shanks grumbled low into his nape, sinking down further making sure this claim stuck so deep he felt it in his veins.

“Ah! Shanks— please! It hurts, oh fuck it hurts!” He sobbed, squirming under the larger alpha, but he just wouldn’t let go, letting out a carnal growl in response. Truth be told, Buggy honestly didn’t mind the pain, the sheer thought that out of every omega in all the blues, the Emperor wanted him was enough to make him moan, as masochistic as that was.

Thick tears ran down Buggy’s cheeks as he was claimed and fucked roughly, the omega inside the deepest parts of his instincts completely satisfied, infact, he isn’t sure he’s ever felt this complete in his life.

Shanks finally let go once the taste of blood seeped through his lips, he pulled back, eyebrows knitting together as he moaned once he saw the job he’d done. “You’re mine. Say it.” The alpha growled low, fucking so hard into Buggy his balls felt like bruising. The mark on Buggy’s nape stung so deep, his legs shook. It would definitely have the most wicked bruise blossom over it tomorrow, but that was one of the best parts, in Shanks’s opinion.

Buggy sniffled back thick tears as his lips trembled to find the words he needed. “I’m yours, alpha! I promise no one else will have me but you, I-I’m all yours, please— fuck!” He cried out as overstimulation made way into his system, his skin feeling like it was on fire. Shanks was more than satisfied at the continued begging from him, staring down at his claim mark, pleased.

Unfortunately Shanks didn’t have time to admire his work for long, the omega leaning up to claim him back. He felt sharp fangs seep into the nape of his own neck, making him moan. He couldn’t hold back anymore, the pain and the pleasure dancing beautifully in his veins; helping him orgasm in a heartbeat.

Buggy moaned sweetly, senses being filled with his alphas musky scent, the familiarity of lemons, booze and something that made him scrunch his nose. His pheromones were a lot muskier and dominant than Buggy’s, he noticed.

“Feels so good— my perfect mate, such a perfect omega, all for me...” He panted roughly, babbling on as he thrusted his knot into place, spilling deep inside the clown below him. Buggy felt Shanks’s large knot, immediately letting go of his neck to moan in response. 

The Emperor leaned back down to kiss Buggy’s tears away sweetly, contempt and satisfied at what he’d just done, no worries left in his head. The room quieted down as their movements slowed to a stop, the wall behind the headboard being able to catch a break.

Buggy slowly came out of the heat induced haze he was in, looking down at himself, noticing Shanks still inside of him, not realizing they were locked together. “You okay—? Ngh!” Shanks’s breath was punched out of him as Buggy panicked, squirming away. Resulting in pain for the both of them. 

“What the fuck is this!? Why is your dick so big!?” Buggy hissed, continuously squirming and pulling at the knot inside of him making Shanks groan in pain. “Buggy, stop!” He growled, sweat dripping off of his forehead and onto the sheet below, watching as it seeped in, a dark spot appearing. “It’s- it’s my knot it’s fine,” he huffed, too out of breath for this.

Buggy knew what a knot was in theory. He hadn’t ever experienced feeling one inside him, it was invasive, to say the least. He whined as he felt the heaviness of it, trying to pull away with a whine, only for Shanks to move and pin him down, too exhausted to handle this.

“Just let it take, it’s okay… it’ll go down.” Shanks shushed him gently, voice as soft as cashmere as he nuzzled into the other; the tip of his cock kissing Buggy’s cervix.

The clown grumbled slightly, begrudgingly accepting the other to get closer, moving a hand to run through his red strands. Shanks hummed peacefully as he felt his omega's trembling hand run through his scalp, breathing in his scent, head resting on his chest. Buggy just laughed softly, ignoring the need for another round, his heat coming in waves. “You’re a big baby.” He teased, playing with a strand of hair next to Shanks’s ear.

Shanks just rolled his eyes. “If this makes me a big baby then what are you?” He mumbled between his skin, deep voice sending vibrations down his body. Buggy just lay there, staring blankly. He was crying and begging to be bred only a few minutes ago, he had no room to talk.

The quiet after the chaos was nice, the two basking in the intense afterglow in each others arms. The room peaceful, except for the intense smell of sex that filled the room.

Buggy squinted his eyes, ignored the throbbing pain in his neck, why the hell did Shanks have to bite so hard? That possessive bastard, it’s not as if some creepy alphas are going to snatch him up. Unfortunately, he knows Shanks would never allow that, always there to protect him. Ugh, he really hated this man.

He took the Alphas scruffy jaw in his hand, caressing it and feeling his scratchy beard. Shanks, the sap, leaned into the soft ministrations, kissing his hand while staring lovingly into his eyes; cheek squished into his palm. “I’ll remember this sweet side of you forever,” The larger man whispered, practically purring. Buggy’s face reddened, at a loss of words for how grossly sappy Shanks was and for how he, himself, allowed it.

After what felt like an hour, Shanks’s knot went down and he gently pulled out with a hiss, cock raw and sensitive. “Fuck, look at that,” Shanks huffed, staring at Buggy’s leaking entrance, his own cum mixed with slick pooling out onto the sheets. The creamy fluid threatening to drip down his bitten thighs.

The allure of this omega without even trying was insane. Buggy whimpered at the sensation of Shanks’s load seeping out of him, wanting it to stay inside of him… it wasn't fair. “You’re so cute baby,” Shanks spoke softly, letting him slowly come out of his heat-induced daze.

A wicked grin stretched on the Emperors face, taking his hand and fingering his own cum back inside Buggy, making him cry out and shiver. “Shanks, you dickhead!” He hissed, out of breath. His protests were cut short when one of Shanks’s long fingers prodded at his lips, Buggy didn't question it, immediately opening his mouth and sucking on his finger.

Shanks watched in awe as Buggy actually obeyed him, licking and sucking the cum off of his finger. “Such a good boy, look at you doing what your Alpha tells you to.” His instincts silently purred, pleased at the erotic display of submission.

If Buggy weren't in heat right now and if he wasn't insanely horny and raring to go again, he would've smacked Shanks across his dumb, big head. He can already picture him rubbing his face in pain, whining to him about how he wished he were nicer. He better be grateful for everything he’s is doing for him right now! Buggy glared at Shanks, as if the Alpha could read his mind.

Benn Beckman had finished gathering some of the crew, ordering them around on where to put certain supplies on the Red Force. “You spineless idiot, the ammo goes inside!” He barked out at a rookie who swiftly followed the orders given, obviously intimidated.

He felt a slight presence next to him, turning to Hongo who stood beside him. He looked puzzled, sniffing the air with the raise of an eyebrow. “Where’s the Chief?” Hongo tilted his head, making Benn pinch his nose once he remembered what happened earlier. Fuck.

A loud knock rang through the wooden door, rousing Shanks from the best sleep of his life. He groggily sat up, trying his best not to wake Buggy. Ignoring the insane uncomfortableness that wracked through his body, he sat up, knees cracking from his earlier activity. 

He pulled a pair of pants back on quickly, realizing what he’d done, and the situation at hand. He whispered a few curses as he walked over to the door, creaking it open to see Hongo.

“Oh! Hi Hongo,” He smiled gently, trying his best to seem normal. Which was impossible for the mixed scents, and the mark on his neck. The other man just stared unimpressed, leaning over to look through the door at Buggy’s peaceful sleeping form. “You two look exhausted. Mind telling me why?” He quirked an eyebrow, arms crossed. Shanks knew immediately that Benn snitched. How could his first mate do such a thing… 

After a well deserved pregnancy avoidance scolding, Shanks went back into bed with the smaller man. Whatever, it’s not like he’s actually going to knock Buggy up… right? 

Shanks frowned, noticing him shifting restlessly. “You okay baby?” He whispered softly, trailing kisses down his neck as he pulled the blanket back over their bodies. Buggy just whimpered, eyes fluttering as he moved on his other side facing Shanks, face red and sweaty. So he was awake this whole time?

The omega just whimpered softly, sitting up. Buggy wanted so bad to curl over and hold his lower stomach, the heat cramps turning painful instead of an annoying dull ache. His body craving knot after knot, making him whine again pathetically, leaning closer into Shanks’s arms.

“Just tell me what you need,” Shanks’s eyes looked down at him softly, full of love. He tried to resist his own selfish desires, his rut coming back in another wave, aggressively present in his mind. Of course he was only able to get a little rest, he hated his nature sometimes.

This was definitely going to be a long, tiring week, but if he got to spend it breeding Buggy, he would be the happiest alpha in all the seas. “You need my knot again baby?” He whispered sensually into Buggy’s ear, making the other moan softly.

“Shanks…” He breathed out, blue hair spilling down his waist. It had gotten so long, Shanks noticed with a smile. Maybe he’d have a chance to wrap his fist around it, pull it as he fucked him from behind? A wish for later, he assumed.

Buggy crawled onto Shanks’s lap like some needy bitch, but he didn’t care at the point, just wanted his alpha inside of him, soothing his aches and needs. “Let me ride you til you fill me over and over again?” He spoke softly, moving his legs so he was straddling the larger man, sat atop his lap, blissfully aware of the hardness growing under him.

Shanks leaned up to grab the other’s jaw, kissing him deeply. Once he pulled away, looking into his eyes, he smiled, something in his eyes dark and carnal. “Let’s see how long you can keep that up for, yeah? Until you beg for me to take you again; set you on your stomach and let me fuck you deep from behind, hm?” He whispered, caressing a hand over the side of his face.

Buggy’s face turned red, gasping sharply. “You’re such a fucking pervert!” He hissed, trying to get off of the others’ lap, only to be met with a death grip on his thigh, making him shiver. “Who said you’re getting off? Don’t you always brag about keeping your word all the time?” He smirked, making Buggy’s face drop. “Oh fuck you.” 

Shanks really doesn’t know how he talked Hongo into letting Buggy stay on his ship until their cycles pass, but he did. Perhaps it’s because this is the first time he’s been really able to satisfy his rut, claim the one omega he’d been yearning for. 

Or maybe it’s because it would calm his outbursts, since no one wanted to deal with Shanks in that state. Unaware that it might just get worse now that Buggy was finally his. He huffed on a laugh, his instincts purring at the realization.

“What are you laughing about?” Buggy frowned, slightly embarrassed. Shanks just leaned in to kiss the forming bruise on his nape, his hand moving down to caress his hip. “Nothing sweetheart, when did you plan on getting back to your crew again?” He asked with a knowing smirk.

Buggy stared with a blank face, the gears in his brain slowly shifting at the realization of Shanks’s words. Shit, there’s no way he’d be able to go back right now… how long would he have to…

“What about writing them a letter? This is my territory. They can stay until you feel better.” Shanks assured, petting Buggy’s side up and down like something delicate. The other just nodded, too horny to think about what all of this meant right now. 

“Anyways, that’s not important right now…” Buggy hushed himself, fingers dancing on a tanned chest below him. He leaned down to kiss his Alpha deeply, to which he returned the gesture even sloppier.  Feeling a hand sneak around to grip the plump skin of his ass, the omega bit Shanks’s lip in retaliation, grinding slowly into his lap making the Emperor groan.

Seagulls sang as they flew above the cities buildings, the sea's waves crashing onto the beach in the distance. Alvida held a letter out with both hands dramatically, reading it out to Cabaji like a scroll. Her facial expression turned into all sorts of emotions. “The fuck?! I knew something was off about the way he left so quickly.” She scoffed to the man in front of her, who was mutually surprised.