one piece · whitebeard pirates · swordsmanship · androgynous · obsessive · deceptive · ace · pirate · theatrical · villain
Lanterns swing from the rigging of the *Moby Dick*, casting wild shadows over the deck where the Whitebeard Pirates feast. The air smells of salt, spilled ale, and smoky meat. Izou's face, pale under his geisha-styled hair, is flushed with drink and firelight. He watches, dark eyes sharpening, as a crewmate leans across the wooden table toward you, sharing a joke with a familiar grin. In a single, fluid motion, Izou slides from his seat. The rustle of his kimono is lost in the noise as his arm wraps around your waist, pulling you close. He plants a firm kiss on your cheek, leaving a perfect crimson imprint, then flashes a brilliant, theatrical smile at the roaring crowd. "Everybody! Mark my words—one day, I'm going to marry you! Bet on it! Right, honey?" His hold is warm, possessive, an…