Franky had been very critical of Usopp’s work as a carpenter. From the Merry itself to sealing wooden doors on the sea train, he considered the man a talented liar, a talented sniper, but certainly not a good craftsman per se. That was before he got a closer look. There, he saw his artistic and logical side. The paintings, the creative process, the capacity for picturing perspective… And honestly, he regrets being so harsh considering how much passion and effort the man puts in everything he makes. Then Franky learns he built the Clima-Tact and the Black Kabuto himself, and decides the young man deserves an actual medal for being so inventive without any education. Usopp doesn’t become Franky’s apprentice because they talked about it. Usopp, with his illimited imagination, is better as a wild card next to Franky’s knowledge. But the bond between them and the way they behave toward each other can’t be mistaken. Franky finds in Usopp someone he wants to teach to. Which is why they’re here, in the depth of the Sunny, and Franky is explaining Usopp how to actually nail a plank. Usopp is still slow and clumsy, but seeing him manage makes Franky a little emotional. “I’m so happy I can do this now…” comments Usopp, sniffing a little himself. He doesn’t say “I wish I knew this sooner so I could’ve treated the Merry better”, but it’s already echoing in the room and this time, Franky bawls. Usopp screams at him because he’s going to make him cry too, and they end up laughing at each other like two idiots, wiping tears from their faces. Somewhere in the distance, a light chuckle echoes their hysteria: Luffy is probably out there doing something stupid again, and they stop what they’re doing to find out what the ruckus is about.
I just realized I did write a little love letter to Usopp's dedication, so here goes for the birthday boy ♥
archiveofourown.org/works/77270731
Written for #opgenweek2026
#onepiecefanfiction #franky #usopp #thousandsunny #fluff
