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Chapter Text

My breath got caught in my throat as my blood ran cold. My trembling hands fell motionlessly to my side numb as a wheezing sound escaped my lips at what I was witnessing in front of me. My brain was denying everything my eyes took in, ears ringing as if my head had been hit by a metal bat.

No...

This wasn't happening, no!

I desperately ran to the edge of the cliff but quickly stopped as the ground gave away, chunks of dirt and rock falling into the rough ocean. I watched them get swallowed by the white waves in horror, my stomach dropping in dread imaging myself following a similar fate to what used to be part of the cliff. But my distraction doesn't last long as I look back up, eyes widening as a choked wheeze slips between my lips. 

"NII-CHAN!!!" My damaged, burned throat releases a raspy scream of agony, my vocal cords sounded like they had been sanded down by sandpaper. My eyes widening in hysteria as the canon soar through the sky, heading towards the small helpless boat. The boat my brother rode.

My arms flew over my eyes as the hot blast of the explosion made my long blonde hair fly back. Flicks of dust and debris flew through the air, a wince leaving my lips as something cut my cheek. The aftershock of the blast left my ears ringing, warning sirens blasting in my head, screaming at me to move away from where I stood. But my feet stated glued to where they were, my heart was pounding out of my chest, dread slowly seeping into every part of my body making each of my veins icy cold.

When I finally reopened my eyes, blinking away the dust that covered my eyelashes, the only sight that entered my orbs was my brother's favorite hat drifting in the air. My eyes followed it as it pitifully landed into the water, watching in frozen shock as the wave swallowed it whole until I could no longer see it.

My icy cerulean eyes, a trait I got from my mother, grew large as saucers as I saw the wood that was once a boat drift around in the blue water in broken pieces. Barely afloat was a black flag, but that too soon disappeared as the orange flame ate it away, making ashes drift through the air looking like black snowflakes.

It felt like bricks were suddenly laid on top of my chest, my lung not being able to take in oxygen. My hands were shaking, my eyesight getting blurry as black dots appeared in my vision. Realization on what just happened sinking in.

No...

No.....

No......!

"SABO-NII-CHAN!!!!" I screamed as fat salty tears ran down my face, staining my dirtied cheeks that were covered in dirt and ash.

I sucked in a large, choked breath, preparing to scream once more. However, a rough hand seized my shoulder making my sobbing come for a quick stop. With the tears running down my face, my head snaps towards who had grabbed me, anger and agony burning in the pits of my stomach. 

My eyes harden with hate as I glared up at the man dressed in fine clothes, my teeth grinding against each other in uncontainable outrage. With a rough jerk, I released my shoulder from his hand, pulling myself away from the man known as my father. My fingers curled into a tight fist, shaking in resentment to the man who was part of the reason why my brother had tried to escape this god damn island. 

The dark-haired man looked irritated by my action, releasing a snort from his nose as he returned my glare. I wasn't expecting a harsh slap to come from him, his hand connecting to my cheek painfully as I gasped, falling to the ground at the impact.

"Foolish daughter! Weeping over the ungrateful boy is unnecessary and shameful. It's a good thing he's gone, nothing good came out of him, a worthless scum that is a shame to our family," Father mumbled, his eyes drifting to the ocean as he spit out his words in disgust.

The boat had finally sunk down completely. The only thing that remained of it being the dark smoke that drifted in the air. But that too was going to disappear soon, dissipating into the sky. 

My Father released a sigh as he rubbed his chin, a thoughtful look appearing in his beady eyes. "But now that's he's gone, I need to make sure no one finds out he was my son."

My anger had reached the max at his comment, my fingers curling into a tight fist. Oh, how much I wished to land a hit on him... Just one damn punch would be enough to knock out his front teeth. And it would be absolutely simple and easy to do. 

However, before I could make up my decision of whether I was going to do it, I caught sight of something from my peripherial vision. I tore my eyes off the man and looked back at the ocean that took my brother. What my cerulean orbs landed on makes me suck in a quick breath.

I couldn't believe my eyes. I had seen it disappear earlier...

There floating was my brothers signature hat and goggles.

Gasping, I staggered closer to the edge of the cliff to get a better look. But before I could get far, I was forced to an abrupt stop as a hand grabbed my wrist.

"Where do you think you're going, Clementine?" My Father harshly questioned as he pulled me back, his fingers digging into my flesh. The slightly tattered dress that I was forced into earlier that morning got caught on my shoes, making the hem rip off and fluttered into the air, getting carried to the massive waves below.

And like the dress, my remaining patience that was barely there from the start also disappeared, snapping like an aged rope of a bridge. My hands reached under my white knee socks, pulling out a rusty old knife my other 'brother' gave to me in the forest weeks ago. Without hesitation, I lashed at my Father, making him cry out in shock and pain. 

Blood splattered on my face as my small, yet sharp, deadly blade connected to my father's arm, creating a good cut. He staggered back, clutching his arm in shock, his beady eyes blazing in disbelief before quickly getting replaced by anger. However, they opened in fear as I threw the knife at him, the blade soaring into the air and quickly landing centimeters away from his feet. He yelped in shock and tumbled back. 

That was all the distraction I needed. 

I turned around and dash to the edge of the cliff, ignoring the fear that clawed up my throat as I peered down at the roaring waves.

"Clementine! What are you-?!"

Without looking back to acknowledge my father, I closed my eyes and jumped with open arms.

Chapter Text

CLEMENTINE P.O.V.

Surviving the jump wasn’t something that was planned. But somehow, that was exactly what I was able to achieve. 

I coughed harshly as I dragged myself onto the sandy beach, the waves gently lapping at my feet while I laid on the ground. My arms and legs felt like pure lead, lifelessly sprawled next to my body, too tired to move. The dress I was wearing had soaked up so much seawater from the ocean, they felt uncomfortably heavy and cold, stealing the little body temperature I was able to maintain. It was almost impossible for me to stand up in my weakened state.

Another wave of coughs attacked my small body as I dragged myself up the shore, my body gathering sand as well as filth. My once white dress was a few shades darker from being wet, dirt and grime dirting the fabric. In my arms was my brother's signature hat and goggles, my  fingers tightly gripping them in a protective hold. 

It was the reason why I had jumped into the roaring waves in the first place. It was the only remaining thing I had of him. And if I was going to die trying to retrieve it, then that was it.

Moving my wet blonde bangs out of my face, I rolled onto my back and laid on the sand, trying to even out my breathing. My chest rose and fell unevenly as I stared into the orange and yellow sky of a sunset. I ignored the sharp pain I kept feeling on my left waist and looked up into the cloudless sky.

As I cleared my mind and evened out my ragged breathing, the realization of what had happened hit my body as tears started to form once again. I covered my face with my brother’s wet top hat, no longer wanting to see the clueless beautiful sky that was unmatching to the agony that ate away at my heart. Laying in the same position, my shoulders shook as I sobbed into my brother's hat.

"N-Nii-chan... W-Why?!" I cried painfully. In my mind, the goofily grinning image of my blond older brother played like a broken recording of a movie. Everything about him, his missing teeth, his bandaged nose, his metal pipe he always carried around played in my mind.

My sobs soon turned into hiccups and even those turned to sniffles in the end, the air cooler than before and my skin itching from the salt of the ocean. Gritting my teeth, I forced my wobbly legs to support my weight. I staggered for a second before standing up, the blue top hat and goggles hugged to my chest as I dragged my feet away from the water.

I needed to go to them...

I needed to find them...

The sandy beach soon turned to a lush green, a forest covered in thick grass and vegetation. My eyes were emotionless and blank, all life sucked out of them. Yet, they were enough to scare all the animals that observed me behind the bushes and trees they hid behind. My eyes narrowed on them, daring them to come closer to me. None of them took the risk as I dragged myself through the thick trees, the entrance of the mountain that belonged to the bandits.

I stared straight forward, navigating through the forest I had hunted and lived in for months. Pained hisses escaped my lips every time my clothes rubbed against my waist, the once white cloth slowly turning a deep red. However, I didn't stop, my feet continuing to carry me through the familiar jungle.

The pain in my waist started to become numb after a while, making me look down at it in mild concern. I scowled at my injury in distaste. When I had jumped, I was expecting injuries, even possibly death. But having actually gotten the injury, I didn't expect it to hurt this much. 

Ignoring the pain and tiredness, I pushed myself to continue through the forest. However, I came to a stop, my ears picking up loud rustles and small vibrations from the ground. Something was approaching me…

My cerulean blue eyes stared at the large tiger-like animal that jumped out in front of me, immediately recognizing it. The animal that was much larger than me had two sharp teeth that looked like it could belong to a sabertooth tiger, its fur being black and orange stripes that moved down its body.

Staring at it, I couldn’t help but remember when my brothers had defeated it together, laughing as they forced it to carry them around the forest like a ferry. Back then, it had looked so defeated with large bumps piling on his head from all the hits it received from them. 

But now, it stared down at me with drools dripping down its fangs, surely smelling the blood that leaked out of my wound on my waist. 

It growled viciously at me and crouched down as if it was going to pounce at any moment. However, the anger and sadness I was feeling from the loss of my blood-related brother overpowered my fear as I continued to stand before it. I emotionlessly stared at it, not flinching or moving as it leaped at me. It’s warm breath fanned on my face, the large feline’s claw catching me above my left eyebrow as it swiped at me.

Blood trickled down my face, entering my left eye, making me subconsciously close it. My other eye narrowed with eerie calmness as I took a step closer to the beast. 

"Back off," I muttered, my eyes getting hooded by my bangs, my voice octaves lower than usual. 

At that moment, I felt invincible, my own voice sounding muffled as if something was blocking the sound from entering my ears.

Something was different...

Like a wave, something similar to a warm gust of air got released out of my body and hit the animal. Immediately its ears flattened down as it fell to the ground, laying its belly flat against the forest floor. Its once fierce eyes were round and blank, staring up at me with its pupils blown wide as its whiskers trembled. 

Fear and submission replaced its eyes that were filled with hunger just a moment ago. I watched it with a blank look as it slowly crawled to my feet, the animal avoiding eye contact as it rolled over, showing me its stomach as if it was begging for forgiveness.

I blinked, not expecting the attitude of the beast to do a complete 180 turn. If my head was working straight, I would have questioned it more. However, with blood slowly getting lost from  my system, my brain was foggy, incapable of working like normal.

“Take me to Dadan’s house. Don't make me hit you like how Ace did when you didn’t listen,” I speak quietly, my voice sounding hoarse and weak. 

The feline-like animal rolled back onto its stomach, shifting its body towards me before turning his head back. It briefly met my gaze before looking down in submission. That was all I needed before I placed my hand on its back, my hand sinking into the soft orange fur. 

With a slight struggle, I climbed onto its back, the cut on my waist still bleeding, dripping down onto the beast's fur. However, I paid no mind, my fingers feeling stiff and cold as they desperately clutched onto the soft fur. 

So soft and warm, I think, my thoughts getting fuzzy and numb. It was as if everything in my body had begun to shut off.

Using one hand holding onto my brother's hat, I used the other to grip onto the long fur, pulling on it like reins to guide the animal.

Flashes of image continued to pop into my mind as I rode on the beast's back. Even after blinking and shaking my head, the image of the cannon hitting the small wooden boat continued to run through my head like a broken record. Gripping tighter to the hat in my arms, I looked forward.

Soon the forest ended, opening up into a clearing where one worn out house barely stood. With my knees wobbling slightly, I got off the animal's back before stalking off to the house. 

Even with the door being closed shut, the loud screams and yells from inside were deafening as I stood in front of the hut.

Without hesitating, I slammed the door open and walked in. Immediately the screaming ceased to a stop, the room falling into silence. My one open eye surveyed the area, though it quickly stopped onto two boys.

One, the smaller form was sobbing hysterically while standing at the corner of the room. The other, a boy with freckles littering his face was holding a smaller bandit by the collar of his shirt. His mouth was hanging open as his dark eyes stared at me in disbelief.

"C-Clemie..." Ace gasped as he stared at me wide-eyed. He dropped Dogra and quickly scrambled over to me and crouched down. His rough hands grabbed my face as he peered into my eyes in a mixture of shock and worry.

At his warm touch against my icy cheeks, I felt tears begin to form in my eyes once again. It took everything in my will power to push it back, doing a pitiful job of hiding it with a whimper. "A-Ace,” I’m barely even able to say his name. I bit my lips, wishing I didn't have to say it. Because I knew if I placed those words in my mouth, it meant I was truly acknowledging what had happened today.  “H-He's…. He's gone..." I finally cried after a moment as I held the hat tighter to my chest. The older boy's eyes darted to the hat in my arms before going back to my face, pain filling his onyx gaze.

He gritted his teeth before he darted to the door, grabbing a metal pipe on his way, "damn those bastards! I'm going to avenge his death!" He yelled angrily, his voice loud and clear. In shock, I tried to run after him, my arms cutting air as I missed him. My movement makes me sway, my legs doing a lousy job of keeping me up as I suddenly feel light-headed.

I tumbled to the ground and laid my head down on the cold floor in pain. From the floor, I watched as the orange-haired female bandit immediately caught Ace, smashing his face into the ground, the impact shaking the whole house. "Stop it, you damn brat!" Dadan bellowed as she pushed down harder, putting her whole weight to hold down the struggling boy.

My view of the two of them got blocked when somebody picked me up. I was about to protest, but when I felt them looking at my injuries, I closed my mouth. However, I continued to listen to the yelling between the two.

"Get off.....!" Ace screamed, "don't get in my way!" 

My eyelids became unusually heavy, barely having the strength to keep open and my mind starting to get fuzzy as well.

"Oi, Dadan, Ace! She's lost a lot of blood! She's not going to make it if we don't stop the bleeding!" A voice yelled, stopping the argument between the two. I felt arms lift my body up while pressing something against my waist.

Wincing in pain, I closed my eyes, everything around me was too blurry and causing a headache. My fingers felt numb and strangely cold. The voices I was hearing suddenly disappeared, and I was surrounded by silence.  

I was too tired to think anymore. 

And before I knew it, everything was blank.

Chapter Text

CLEMENTINE P.O.V.

I silently sat high off the ground next to Ace, our feet dangling down on the large tree branch we were perched on. The forest around us was full of life, birds chirping and small animals rustling around in bushes. It was as if the tragic incident of Gray Terminal didn't happen yesterday where thousands of innocent lives were stolen.  

"Was it okay to leave Luffy?" I finally questioned quietly, breaking the silence. My hands nervously went to the bandage covering my head, my thin fingers playing with the white fabric while my brother's hat and goggles lay on my lap. I hadn't been able to let them go since I woke up, bringing them along with me as if they were a part of my body.

Ace let out a grunt as he scooted closer to me. He stared off into the trees, his eyebrows knitted together and refusing to look into my eyes. "I wanted to talk privately. And if we brought that idiot here with us, he'd probably start sobbing as soon as I said Sabo's name."

I sighed at Ace's harsh words, but I couldn't deny them because I understood what he was saying. He, too, was grieving like Luffy and me. However, I admit I was more concerned about Ace than Luffy.

Luffy, I know he'll eventually get over my older brother's death. He was crying his heart out for now and releasing everything he felt through cries and tears. But for Ace... Ace wasn't precisely like Luffy. He struggled to release his emotions. He tended to keep to himself if something truly bothered him. 

And until only a couple hours ago, the freckled best friend of mine had been tied to a tree by Dadan so he wouldn't go to the Goa Kingdom and cause havoc. 

First thing in the morning today, he yelled at us from outside, strangely and uncharacteristically promising not to go to town to avenge my brother.

"Oi, Clemie, are you listening to me?" Ace irritably snapped at me, using the nickname he made himself. He finally turned his face towards me, allowing me to see his face clearly. Our gazes clashed, the boy flinching a bit, realizing how close our faces were. I'm sure even Ace didn't notice that this was the first time he looked into my eyes since I woke up. 

I weakly smiled at the raven-haired boy and nodded my head. 

Immediately Ace's eyes softened, his eyebrows furrowing as he looked at me worriedly, an uncertain look appearing in his dark gaze.

"You still haven't healed all of your injuries. Are you not feeling well?"

I shook my head, my long, wavy blonde hair swaying. My gaze shifts away from him, looking up at the sky, squinting my sensitive eyes from the sun.

"Then what? You need to talk, or I won't understand," Ace stated firmly as he scolded me, looking mildly irritated once again as he turned away from me. 

Turning my head, I see that Ace is looking at me again. I smiled at him sadly, unable to help myself, "just sad and lonely." I simply explain, the smile not reaching my eyes. 

We both stopped talking and sat there in the silence of the forest. The birds had gone silent for once, the only noise around the two of us being the leaves rustling against each other as the breeze blew. 

My cerulean blue eyes went to my hands, my lips curling into disgust. I frowned and closed my fist. In this body of mine flows the blood of a noble. A shameful, disgusting noble.

I bit my lip and calmly organized my thoughts. Nobles were treated highly, yet they were rotten trash with their selfishness… They had done nothing themselves to contribute to society yet lived with wealth and luxury while letting those who were not as fortunate do the dirty work.  

Bluejam and his pirate crew were scum; I wasn't going to deny that, especially hearing what they had done to Gray Terminal. But the nobles and the royal family were also involved, tricking the pirates into doing their dirty work in exchange for false promises. That made them higher on the scum list in my book. 

A scum... Garbage, something that I was part of because of the blood that flowed through my veins. 

"Clemie... You should stop doing that."

I lifted my head up and looked at Ace, who stared down at my hands while his eyebrows furrowed, his mouth shaped into a deep frown. 

"You're cutting yourself with your nails."

I looked down at my hand, my eyebrows raising up in surprise. Slowly uncurling my fingers that trembled slightly, I stared at my pale palms where small, red crescent moon-shaped cuts bled. A slight wince left my lips, finally beginning to feel the sting that came from them.

I sighed and swiftly grabbed the bandage on my head and pulled it off. Ignoring Ace's astonished look, I wrapped both of my hands with the white bandages, tying them securely.

"Oi, that cut...." The boy trailed off, his gaze narrowing on my face. His rough hands gently moved the blonde bangs off my forehead and looked at the cut above my left eyebrow.

My thoughts went to the beast that gave me this cut.

"I've never asked, but what happened? Although it's scabbing, it seems pretty deep. This will probably leave a scar."

I scoffed at Ace's statement and quietly covered the injury with my bangs, paying no mind to his statement. If it scarred, it scarred. It didn't matter, especially since my hair would likely cover it. 

I peered out of my blonde bangs and watched the older boy rub his freckled face with frustration. He didn't push the topic any further as I stayed silent, and I was thankful for that.

"Clemie, Sabo sent a letter before he left..."

I blinked, but as his words settled in, my eyes widened in surprise. I turned my body towards him, giving Ace my full attention, my mouth suddenly feeling dry as if someone had stuffed cotton in them. 

With slight hesitation, Ace pulled out an envelope from his pocket, his finger trembling slightly as he held the wrinkled paper. I stared at it, at a loss of words, as I realized it really was something Sabo sent, seeing the familiar envelope made explicitly for Sabo by our family. 

Ace looked at me closely and motioned with his hands, telling me to come closer. I sat close to him, our shoulders touching as we both looked at the letter he held. 

"I thought it would be better if we read this together. I still haven't opened it," Ace explained quietly, his eyes filling with emotion as he held the sealed envelope carefully. We both swallowed thickly, but that did nothing to help the thick emotion stuck in our throats. 

"Sabo sent this before he left..." I muttered to myself, not being able to believe it. He had planned everything yet...

My blue eyes shifted towards Ace as he handed me the paper. The ravenette scratched his head, looking slightly embarrassed. "You read it. You're better at it than me," he admits before crossing his arms over his chest and avoiding my gaze.

Sucking in a shallow breath with shaky hands, I carefully tear open the envelope, taking out the crisp paper inside and unfolding it. Immediately my gaze met familiar handwriting that made my heart twinge and my eyes water. 

I opened my mouth but closed it when I noticed how dry they actually were. Nervously, my tongue darted out of my mouth, moistening my dried lips.

On the second try, my voice shakily left my mouth, sounding hesitant and weak.

"Ace, Luffy... You weren't hurt in the fire, were you? Clementine and I have been worried about you guys, but I have faith that you're alright. I feel bad telling you this, but by the time you read this letter..."

I paused for a second, trying to calm my frantic breathing.

'Slow breaths, slow even breaths...' I chanted in my mind.

"... I'll already be out at sea." I finally continued, ignoring Ace's sharp look, "one thing led to another, and it looks like I'll be setting sail ahead of you g-guys... As for where I'll go, anywhere outside of the country is fine by me. Once I arrive, I'll train so I can be a real strong pirate."

I sucked in a painful breath as I noticed my name, "Ace, t-take care of Clementine for me, alright? She's a smart one. She'll find a way to come back to you guys, I'm sure. She'll find a much better way than I could ever. My little, cute sister of mine is probably mad that I left her at the damn house, so I apologize if she throws a fit and takes it out on you guys..."

I stopped and gave Ace the paper. As I rubbed my nose, my eyes watered, "you read the r-rest..." I choked, unable to help but sniffle loudly as I tried to even out my breathing. 

Ace nodded and took the paper, quickly finding where I left off. However, he doesn't immediately begin to read. He, too, is trying to calm down. He clears his throat before shakily beginning, "since it's the Clementine we know, she'll probably leave Mother and Father as soon as she realizes that I left. If she comes to you guys, take care of her for me. She is my precious baby sister. And if you see her, say I said sorry that I couldn't keep my promise and take her with me. I realized I couldn't protect the both of us just yet. But I promise to come to pick her up as soon as I'm strong enough."

I choked a hiccup out and pressed on my eyelids with both of my palms. They immediately became wet with tears, not doing anything to help stop them.

"By the way, Ace, I wonder which one of us is the eldest. It's strange to have two eldest brothers, a middle sister, and a brother. But those bonds that I shared with you guys are my treasure. Luffy is still a weakling and a crybaby. Clemie is as strong as us, but she's still pretty innocent and clueless. But they're our little siblings. Take care of them."

Ace and I both wailed as he finished reading. Fat tears and snot ran down our dirty faces as we cried our hearts out.

"SABOOOO/NII-CHAAAAAN!!!"

Ace wrapped his arm around my sobbing form, both of us crying out our hearts as we clutched onto each other as if our lives depended on it. Neither of us cared how pathetic we looked as we let the pain of losing someone we loved take over our bodies. 

But I felt relieved in a way. I still had someone with me... 

I wasn't alone. 

At least, not yet...

Chapter Text

CLEMENTINE P.O.V.

I sniffled miserably and let Ace lead me through the forest while holding my hand. I gripped onto his slightly larger hand tightly, refusing to let it go. It seemed and felt as if Ace was currently my only lifeline to maintaining sanity.

The older boy who I knew as my best friend and brother from another mother was the one who was picking me up like a puzzle that was shattered into a million pieces. He was the glue that connected the destroyed pieces and prevented me from coming apart once again.

Eventually, I sucked it up and stopped sniffling, walking next to Ace with my head raised. However, my hands still stayed in his, embracing the comfort and support they provided me.

Neither of us said anything, navigating through the jungle in silence, our feet crunching on the leaves on the forest floor. 

Soon the trees opened up and led us to a familiar cliff that spread the vast ocean ahead.

Near the edge, I could see a small body sprawled on the green grass, face down in a fetal position. I sighed and rubbed my eyes, wiping my eyes so my younger brother wouldn’t see me with tears. Although I had a feeling that it didn’t do much, seeing how swollen they felt from crying earlier. 

I calmly walked up to Luffy, who clutched onto his hat that sat on his head as his shoulders shook with his giant sobs. 

“Lu-” I opened my mouth to call our youngest’s name but got cut off as Ace punched Luffy on his head, the loud noise indicating that Ace hadn’t held back. 

My mouth hung open in shock as I looked up at the freckled boy in disbelief and horror. 

Why in the world would he…?

“How long are you gonna lay there like that?” Ace questioned bluntly as he stood next to the sobbing form of Luffy, who now held his head in a mixture of pain and confusion.

Ace crossed his arms and stared at the sea. He slowly began to speak without looking at either Luffy or me, “we lost all the treasure we had hidden in the central forest. Sabo and Clemie couldn’t use it in the end... So... I don’t care about it anymore. It’s no use hoarding treasure if we can’t even protect it.”

I silently sat next to the shaking form of Luffy. I looked out at the ocean as I hugged my arms around my legs, resting my chin on my knees as the salt breeze brushed my blonde hair out of my face. 

A silence fell over the three of us, the only sound coming from the ocean as the wave crashed against the cliff and the sniffle coming from Luffy. 

“...Ace... Clemie, I....”

Ace and I both shared a brief look with each other before giving the younger boy with his straw hat our attention.

I flinched in surprise, my ear ringing as Luffy’s sudden yell pierced the air.

“I WANT TO GET STRONGER!!! STRONGER!! STRONGER!! STRONGER!! STRONGER AND STRONGER AND STRONGER AND STRONGER AND STRONGER AND STRONGER!!! STRONGER AND STRONGER! I’LL GET STRONGER!!!!”

I winced in pain and rubbed my ears that throbbed at the volume of Luffy’s voice. My hands snapped over my ears as Luffy continued, unable to help myself.

“AND THEN I’LL BE ABLE TO PROTECT ANYTHING!!! AND NO ONE WILL EVER HAVE TO DIE!!!!”

My blue eyes widened as I slowly pulled my hands from my ears, dropping beside me as I realized Luffy’s volume suddenly dropped.

“So, please… Please.... Don’t you die, too, Ace, Clemie....”

My eyes hardened as I raised my hand.

“Don’t be STUPID!!!”

“You IDIOT!!!” Ace and my voice overlapped as we both slammed our fists into Luffy’s head from either side.

“YOU SHOULD WORRY ABOUT YOURSELF FIRST!!!” Ace spat in anger and annoyance as he crossed his arm over his chest. Ace looks at me, shaking his head as if he is saying, ‘can you believe this guy?’

I nodded in agreement and scoffed, “you’re weaker than both of us,” I calmly stated as I played with my bangs, standing back up and taking a step away from Luffy.

Ace’s expression softened for a second before he looked up, facing the ocean before us. 

“Listen, Luffy! Neither Clementine nor I am gonna die, don’t you forget it!!!!” The dark-haired boy declares proudly with his chest puffed out. 

The corner of my lips tugged up, noticing Luffy sit up as he sniffled and nodded, his straw hat covering his head, hiding his crying face from my gaze.

Ace sternly looked at the ocean while his arms crossed over his chest, “Sabo asked me to, so I promise I won’t ever die!! How could I die and leave behind a weak little brother like you? And I can’t leave poor Clemie to clean after your mess all the time!”

Luffy continued to nod his head while crying. I couldn’t help the giggles escaping my lips as I saw all the tears and snot run down the younger boy’s face as he listened to his older brother’s words.

“Luffy,” I started as I wrapped an arm around Luffy’s shoulders, pulling his slightly smaller form closer to my body. “I can never leave you alone in this world, I don’t know how many times I’ll have to get you out of trouble, but I will as many times as I have to. I’m here for you always, both body and soul.”

“Y-Yeah! Yeah....!” Luffy nodded as he continued to sob, his hands frantically rubbing at his eyes as tears spilled out.

Ace looked down at me, his softening as he spoke, his freckles that littered his cheek making him look more boyish with his smile. “I made a vow with Sabo, and we’re still alive. So listen up, Luffy. I will live a life without regret!!”

My thoughts suddenly went to my brother, his voice echoing in my mind. ‘A Noble becomes a true Noble at 18, so I’ll leave this country when I’m 17, and I’m taking you with me, Clementine.’

My heart clenched at the memory. It was a promise that he wouldn’t be able to keep. But that didn’t mean I couldn’t keep it myself. Shaking my head, I listened to Ace as he scolded Luffy, trying unsuccessfully to stop him from crying.

“Someday, I promise to set sail! I’ll live however I want! Freer than anyone!!!”

Luffy sniffled loudly as he tried to clean up his face and ultimately failed. Without hesitation, I pulled out a handkerchief from my pants and rubbed the cloth on Luffy’s face, ignoring how the boy winced and tried to move away. He eventually gave up, letting me do what I wanted. 

However, he continues to speak as I  wipe down his face, trying to clean up the mess he had made. 

“That may make me a lot of enemies... Even Gramps will be my enemy!!! I’ll be risking my life!!! But I’ll set sail at 17! And we will become pirates!!!!”

*

*

*

I patiently watched as Luffy ‘tried’ to hit Ace with his attack, which he called Gomu Gomu no Pistol. Both Ace and my eyes widened as Luffy’s arm stretched perfectly, something that hadn’t happened even once.

However, I sighed and shook my head in disbelief as Luffy started to spin at an incredible speed, not having complete control over his ability. His movement reminded me of a toy spin top I used to play with Sabo.

Ace threw his head back and laughed, pointing a mocking finger at poor Luffy. “Ahahaha!!! What the heck? You can’t even call this a fight! Rubber just isn’t suited for fighting!” Ace started to tease Luffy, who was becoming frustrated.

I closed my eyes, pinching the bridge of my nose, already knowing where this was heading.

“SHUT UP!!!” Luffy yelled as he tackled the freckled raven-haired boy, the two falling onto the ground in a tangled ball of limbs, throwing kicks and punches.

I shook my head at their childishness and leaned against a tree trunk, quietly watching my two brothers fight.

“What, you think I’m wrong!? You can’t even punch! Plus, you can’t swim!” Ace insulted as he budded heads with Luffy. I imagined that would have hurt both Ace and Luffy, but at impact, Luffy’s neck stretched, my eyes widening as I jumped to the side, dodging his head. 

Luffy didn’t back down either, not seeming to be dejected at Ace’s insult. As his head snapped back to where it should be, he began spinning his arms, preparing to attack. “Don’t make fun of the Gomu Gomu no Mi!!! I’m going to make you cry one day! I’m thinking of something even more awesome than the pistol!”

My eyebrow furrowed in confusion as Ace and Luffy pointed at a rock and yelled.

“Sabo! You always go too easy on Luffy!!!” Ace yelled as he pointed at the rock.

“I knew it! I’m stronger than yesterday!!!” Luffy yelled in delight as he jumped up and down.

“Hey, Sa…bo....” Both Ace and Luffy trailed off, the excitement they were feeling seconds ago disappearing as the realization of what they just did settle in. I bit my lips, feeling the back of my throat throb with emotions. It took everything in my power to hold back tears at the reminder of our family missing a person. 

Luffy’s shoulder slumped as he sighed. “....Sabo was such a nice older brother....”

Ace’s teeth grew sharp as he growled angrily, “what?! You’d rather it was me who died?!”

I sighed and shook my head. This was definitely not going in a good way... 

‘Sabo, do you really expect me to keep these two in line without you helping?’

*

*

*

“Clemie... This is...?” Dadan questioned in a mixture of confusion and disbelief as she stood next to me.

I shook my head in annoyance as I ran my hand through my wavy blonde hair, trying to lessen the tension in my scalp. “They had a fight....” I muttered, not having enough strength to explain the whole story to Dadan. I still couldn’t wrap my entire head around how my two brothers were being childish.  

Both Dadan and I shared a look before sighing tiredly.

Dadan threw her arm around my shoulder and groaned, “why can’t those idiots be more like you? Calm and mature? Hell, sometimes I don’t think you’re even a kid.”

I laughed lightly and shrugged my shoulders. My eyes drifted to the two tiny houses made by my brothers. On one board, “ACE LAND ” was written. On the other board, “ LUFFY LAND” was written messily.

Why do I have a bad feeling about this?

Chapter Text

CLEMENTINE P.O.V.

In the small hut that belonged to Dadan and her group of bandits, not a single person spoke a word. Dadan sat in the corner, sipping on a bottle of alcohol, her mouth twitching to hold back a grin. The other bandits, such as Dogra and Magra, peeked through the other rooms, faces pale as they watched what unfolded in the main room.

With a single vein popped on my forehead, I looked down at the two boys that sat in front of me with their knees folded underneath them. One was injury-free, while the other was covered with bandages head-to-toe. Both boys shook in their clothes and stared at me with wide eyes.

To basically summarize, both boys were reckless as they fought the animals in the forest, refusing to help each other because they were currently in the fight. If it was just that, I wouldn't have gotten mad. 

However, for some obscure reason, both boys thought they could win against the strongest beast in the forest by themselves. Something they barely were able to accomplish when Sabo was still here. 

"You idiots…!" I growled, my voice shaking with anger as my eyes narrowed on my two brothers. With all of my strength, I punched Ace and Luffy on the head, immediately making a swollen pink bump appear. I seethed angrily, my usually calm demeanor not present.

"Owwwwww!" They screamed as they grabbed their swollen heads, tears gathering at the corner of their eyes as they looked up at me with wide gazes. I glared at both of them as they whimpered, clutching their injuries. 

"Why does it hurt more than Grandpa's fist of love?! I'm rubber?!" Luffy cried as he held his injured head, rolling around the ground in pain.

Ace, on the other hand,  was laying on the ground in a fetal position holding his head in shock, groans of pain leaving his mouth.

"What the hell, Clemie?" The boy in the tanktop hissed, trying to push back the subconscious tear that gathered at the corner of his eyes. 

I took a deep breath, closing my eyes as I tried to calm down the bubbling anger inside me. However, it didn't do much. Ace's question only added oil to the flame.

"What the hell? The real fucking question is, who the fucking hell do you think you two are?" I questioned in a threatening tone, my voice coming out icy cold and nearly emotionless.

Both boys immediately shut their mouths and stared at me with big round eyes that were bulging in disbelief. 

Dadan sipped on her bottle and watched what unfolded in front of her in entertainment. Magra and Dogra, on the other hand, were blue, feeling pity for the two young boys who were facing my wrath.

"A-Ace! Clemie cussed!" Luffy wailed in fright, jumping onto Ace in terror, his legs and arms stretching around the older boy like a rope. He trembled as he pushed his face into Ace's side, the older boy grunting as he struggled to escape from his brother's rubbery hold.

Ace slammed a fist at Luffy's head and hissed, "idiot! I'm not deaf. I heard it as well!" Ace snapped in panic, trying to move away from me. However, he trips over Luffy's feet, the two tumbling to the floor. The two immediately broke into another fight, arguing about who was at fault. 

A vein popped on my forehead as I sent the two boys a closed-eyed smile as I crossed my arms over my chest. 

"I just asked who the fucking hell do you think you two are!" I snapped once again, my voice rising as I angrily stomped my foot, inches away from both of their heads.

This makes both of my brothers pale, throats bobbing as they gulp, seeing and hearing the wooden floor make a weird noise under my feet. However, their reaction didn't stop me from my rant. 

"You are Portagus D. Ace!" I yell as I point my finger at the boy with the freckled face, "and you are Monkey D. Luffy!" I growled. I released a breath, the anger suddenly disintegrating as I rubbed my face tiredly. I pinch the bridge of my nose as my shoulder falls, suddenly feeling exhausted from being so angry, "aren't we siblings? Sabo and the three of us exchanged sake together, and you brothers are fighting over a stupid thing. Stop it," I demanded as I looked at the boys with a stern look.

Ace and Luffy shook as they sat in front of me. Not hearing a reply like I expected, I raised a single eyebrow motioning with my hand for them to say something. "Well? Do you two understand? Speak up! Or I don't know!"

"Y-Yes!!" They chorused in fright as they grasped each other in a hug.

I smiled, pleased. My angry expression immediately disappeared as my usually calm demeanor came back.

"Good, now Luffy, go rest. You need to heal." I don't bother looking at the two, quickly deciding to go hunting for some crocodiles knowing Luffy needed to eat to heal.

With that, I calmly walked out of the house, closing the door behind me. But not before hearing both of the boys.

"Scary...."

*

*

*

*SEVEN YEARS LATER*

THIRD-PERSON P.O.V

"AGHHHHAHHHH!!!!!" The two teens yelled as they charged at each other.

The pale, blonde-haired girl easily dodged the freckled boy's punches. Her long wavy blonde hair flew around her as she flipped over the older boy's shoulder. As her foot lightly touched the ground, she pivoted on her toes and moved quickly, and changed the trajectory of the punches that came her way with her hands.

Her black socks were like a second skin on her long, slender, yet muscular legs. On her head was her brother's signature hat. However, over the years, it had become her signature hat instead.

As she jumped into the air, her navy blue dress fluttered.

Ace's cheeks immediately turned scarlet as he got a good look under the skirt. He stopped his movement in shock, frozen in place for a second.

However, he quickly snapped out of his daze when Clementine aimed a kick at him. He blocked her powerful attack with his forearm, wincing slightly at the force and sliding back.

They continued to spar with each other, Luffy watching them while impatiently waiting for his turn. However, Clementine and Ace both stopped their movements as a bush in the forest rustled, their attention shifting away from each other. 

Clementine sighed when a medium-sized tiger-like creature appeared, slowly striding out of the plants, deep chuffs leaving his mouth.

"Roki... Why are you here?" She questioned the creature in confusion, her head tilted to the side. The beast just treaded towards her, rubbing his head on her waist, making her stumble onto the grassy ground at his pure strength. 

Seeing this, Clementine knew that her sparring with Ace was getting cut short, the enormous beast too stubborn to let her go as he chuffed and purred against her hand. 

"Geez, your dad would be worrying now," the blonde mumbled as mouthfuls of fur entered her mouth. Her nose scrunched in distaste as she spat them out in disgust. Clueless to Clementine's struggle, the large feline licks at his paw.

Her thoughts went to when she met and tamed this magnificent creature's father seven years ago. The same day, she watched as her brother died at the hands of the Celestial Dragons.

The same creature that gave her the scar above her left eyebrow was the father of Roki.

After the little incident with the beast, Clementine, Ace, and Luffy never had a problem with it. Now he was the king of the forest, and the three learned that he didn't cause them any issues as long as they didn't threaten him. 

Ace did notice how the king did seem to be incredibly submissive towards his sister whenever she was present. It was almost like the beast was avoiding her presence whenever she was there. 

Clementine tried pushing the still young beast off of her. Unlike his father, Roki was small, still growing. He was barely 1/5 of his father's size. Though compared to the teenagers, he was larger than all of them. And unlike his father's orange and black stripes, his fur was pure white with gray streaks.

He was born around two years ago, and Clementine practically raised him when she found him malnourished compared to his litter mates. Back then, he stood out among his siblings, being the only one with different fur colors and the smallest out of them all. 

But with Clementine's round-the-clock care, the feline had grown large, outgrowing his siblings and likely to inherit his father's place as the king of the forest. However, Roki often liked to visit Clementine, appearing in front of the hut and waiting for her patiently. 

Ace sighed as he rubbed his head, "looks like we aren't going to be able to finish our last spar."

The blonde beauty sent the older boy an apologetic smile as she stood up, heaving a bit to push the feline off her.

"Sorry, Ace," she apologized sheepishly as she dusted herself off. Her gaze shifted to where Luffy had been seated, wondering why he was unusually quiet. A small chuckle leaves her mouth as she realizes he had fallen asleep, a bubble expanding from his nose as he slept with his stomach out. It seemed like he still was a kid, although he was already fourteen. 

Roki purred deeply as he rubbed against the former noble like a house cat. Clementine's slender fingers scratched the cat-like creature's chin. The beast's purrs grew more profound and louder, making the female's whole body shake from the vibration traveling up her arm.

Ace stared at his sister for a second before smiling slightly. His little sister indeed has grown into a beautiful young lady.

He couldn't even count how many times he had to stop perverts from touching her whenever they were in town. But most times, Clementine had no issues taking care of herself, easily overpowering men who underestimated her.

Ace grinned proudly as he watched the blonde female pet the beast. He was well aware that Clementine was as strong as him. She was obviously more potent than his younger brother Luffy.

Whenever he needed a sparring partner, he knew she was the one to go to. She was the one who he trusted the most to have his back when he was in the middle of a fight. 

"Ace, you're finally leaving tomorrow, huh?" Clementine muttered quietly as she scratched Roki's ear.

Ace grinned happily as he nodded, his freckled covers cheeks lifting up. Clementine didn't miss the way his eyes sparkled, excitement dancing in his gaze. 

Clementine smiled and looked at her older brother, "just wait, in one year, I'll be chasing after you, Ace."

The ravenette laughed loudly as he wrapped an arm around his sister's waist, "I'll be waiting for you, but I'm going to be the one finding One Piece!"

Clementine rolled her icy blue eyes in a friendly manner and pushed her brother teasingly.

"Yeah, right."

The young girl didn't have the heart to tell her brother she wasn't very interested in One Piece like he and Luffy were. Instead, she wanted to see and experience the adventure for herself, something Sabo couldn't do. 

*

*

*

The blonde in a blue sundress stood before the slightly taller boy, smiling softly. Ace had a similar expression on his face, his arm reaching out and tugging the girl closer, pulling her into his chest. 

"Be safe, Ace..." Clementine muttered as she hugged her older brother tightly, burying her face in his chest. She sighed, her heart twinging as she realized she wasn't going to see him for a while. Being beside him for the last seven years, it felt strange knowing she wasn't going to get to see his smiling face every day starting tomorrow. 

Ace grinned teasingly at her, taking her black and navy blue top hat, and ruffled his sister's blonde hair, running his hand through her silky hair. He, too, felt slightly disappointed, knowing he wouldn't be able to play with her hair for a while. 

"Don't let Luffy toss you around too much, alright? You have one more year until you leave as well. I'll be waiting for your wanted poster," Ace muttered into her temple before placing the hat back on his sister's head.

Clementine nodded and smiled, taking a step back, so she stood next to Luffy, who was grinning widely.

Ace jumped into his small boat and waved at the villagers, Luffy and Clementine, who had come to see him off.

"GOOD LUCK, ACE!!!!" Luffy yelled as he waved his straw hat in the air, a wide broad smile spread across his face. 

Ace quickly replied with his own yell, "just you wait! I'm gonna be famous!!!! Clementine, stay away from the perverts!!!! Luffy, don't sleep and eat at the same time!!!"

Clementine and Luffy shared a look before breaking into laughter with the rest of the villagers who watched Ace disappear into the horizon.

Clementine took her two years younger brother's hand and gripped it tightly.

"One more year...."

Chapter Text

CLEMENTINE P.O.V.

It’s been three months since Ace left our small island. While in the beginning, it took Luffy and me a pretty long time to get used to not having Ace around, it has become the new normal. Not that I didn’t miss having the freckled-faced boy around. At the same time, I couldn’t deny I was having fewer issues fixing up messes with Ace and not causing havoc along with Luffy.

These three months felt short yet long at the same time. By now, I was growing slightly concerned, thinking it was almost strange that I hadn’t heard anything about Ace, especially knowing the trouble he could get himself into.

But finally, this morning, I got my first update about Ace as I made breakfast for everyone who was still fast asleep. As usual, I greeted the news coo outside, stirring the pot as I read the newspaper. However, when reaching a particular page, I couldn’t help an excited shriek that made everyone jump up awake with their weapons in hand.

I excitedly pushed the paper into Dadan and the rest of the bandits. They all blinked drowsily before their eyes widened as they realized what they were staring at. The bandits’ sleepiness seemed to fly out of the window, cheers breaking out as they tried to snatch the paper out of my hand.

Of course, I didn’t let them, quickly swirling away from them and making my exit out of the hut, yelling out that breakfast was ready and if they wanted a newspaper as well, they had to buy it themselves.

I hummed as I read the newspaper while sitting in the same tree I did with Ace after my biological older brother’s death.

“Impressive...” I mutter as I read Ace’s first bounty. And the name.... Fire Fist Ace....

My eyes stayed glued to his wanted poster in fascination. Subconsciously, I ran my finger over his features before making its way towards his hands and fingers that turned into flames.

It really was him...

On the wanted poster, Ace was captured cockily grinning into the camera; the signature hat that I gave him was on his head while a fire burned on his palm. Seeing him wear it makes me grin, happy to know he was carrying around something that was given to him by me.

It seems like my older brother had somehow gotten his hands on the sacred fruit of the Devil himself... Knowing him, he probably ate it thinking it was a typical fruit and didn’t have a single knowledge of what it actually was. That was something I had to ask him the next time I saw him.

I laughed, jumping off the tree, effortlessly landing on the ground with a light thump. I shaded my eyes with my hand, looked up, and stared up at the branch I was sitting on moments ago.

Seven years really made our tree grow... The tree that Ace and I could easily climb had grown so tall that I could barely see our branch from the ground. I laughed slightly and placed the newspaper in my coat as I walked through the silent forest.

I hummed, being in a terrific mood, walking through the green forest when my right foot got caught on something. With my eyes widening in shock, my arms flailed as I tripped and fell forwards. My hat flew in the air but safely landed back on my head, where I laid face down on the ground.

I groaned in pain and laid there for a second, contemplating life and why I was dumb enough to fall face-first to the forest ground. Eventually, I lifted my head up to see what was tangled at my feet.

I blinked once, twice, a third time. I then rubbed my eyes and looked at it once more before placing a hand on my cheek, staring at the dark purple, almost black fruit that seemed to glitter lightly on the vine it was connected to.

After seven long years of living on this island, I was almost wholly positive I knew every kind of vegetation that grew here, especially on Mt. Colubo. Days after days, collecting seeds and berries to make snacks for Luffy had brought me far.

Saying that, the fruit that laid near my feet was something I had never seen before. Which I was positively sure of because this path I walked was my favorite that I took every day, and I was sure this fruit nor plant was not here just the day before.

This fruit definitely did not originate from here… Which brought up a couple of possibilities.

One, something, perhaps an animal like a bird, could have accidentally dropped it here from another island.

However, I pushed that possibility away as I realized that the fruit was literally growing off a vein that directly came out of the ground.

And two, this fruit could be part of something massive, something scientists all over the world still couldn’t completely understand and explain. Something I just learned that morning that my brother had obtained as well.

The unrealistic, almost poisonous-looking color, the weird shape and pattern on its skin... Although extremely unlikely, the best describing thing I knew was an Akuma no Mi, a Devil’s fruit.

I carefully took the spiky blackish-purple fruit into my hand, examining it. It was quite big, the size being similar to a large grapefruit or pomelo. Around the fruit, I could see small white dots that looked like seeds.

I quietly stared at the fruit, looking at it in concentration. After a moment, I laughed, shaking my head, finding it amusing that I even thought about such a ridiculous possibility.

There was no way a Devil’s fruit would appear on this island which was located in the middle of nowhere. Right…?

However... If you think about it, Luffy did obtain a fruit on this island. However, from stories that were told to me, it was because Shanks was responsible for bringing it... And if this were really a Devil’s fruit, me eating it wouldn’t be bad, right?

I mean, both Luffy and Ace ate one....

There’s even a possibility I’m overthinking this. It might not even be a Devil’s Fruit.

With slight worry, hesitation, and spontaneous decision, I carried the dangerous-looking fruit to my mouth. With both my eyes closed tight, my teeth sunk into the flesh, the fruit seeming to be crisp one second and the next turning into mush in my mouth.

My nose scrunched up in disgust as the flavor hit my tongue. The fishy, bitter taste spread over my palettes, and I couldn’t help the gag that forced its way out. I wanted to spit it out. However, it seemed to stick in my mouth, slimming down my throat. Unable to do anything else, I swallowed the cursed fruit, forcing down the bile at the back of my throat.

Using the back of my hand to wipe my hand in disgust. I raised my hand that held the fruit, moving to chuck it away, not even wanting to see it anymore, fearful that it would remind me of the flavor that still lingered in my mouth.

However, just as I was about to throw it into a bush, I looked down at the fruit I had in hand, my eyes widening. A small gasp left my mouth when I saw an utterly different-looking fruit.

It looked like an ordinary apple that had a bite taken out of it. Nowhere was there a poisonous-looking fruit I had seen earlier.

How in the world…?

In silence, I sat on the forest floor in confusion.... What did I just eat....? I continued to stare down at my hand in worry. I felt normal... I seem to look normal.... But what changed?

I stood up and stretched my arms over my head. But I froze and gasped as I watched my hands disappear...

I fell to the ground in shock and looked at my hands. They were there....

Cautiously, I waved my hand slightly. My mouth opened in shock as a purple and navy blue hole-like thing appeared around me.

Slowly, I placed my hand through the hole and gasped as I watched my hand disappear.

I jumped in fright as something touched me from behind. And at the same exact moment, I felt my hand bump into something as well.

Frightened, I turned around and gasped. From another hole-like thing, my hand was emerging out of it. I looked back at the first hole where I put my hand through... And I turned around... And see my hand coming out of a different hole....

Wow....