the scene with barto club in the early elbaph arc reminded me of this scene with buggy when they were young. shanks really does have a softness within him and he's constantly having to bury it to fulfill this duty he feels beholden to, this destiny that he's been told he is an integral part of.
ruthlessness is at times necessary, but i truly think his softer side is entwined with his desire for a more relaxed way of living.












