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Chapter Text

This a small preview of the story so you are hopefully not lost.

This is a time travel AU (Future to past)

Only Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji, The monster trio are traveling or becoming time travelers (If you came here for different characters and whatnot here's your last chance to go back)

May not follow the main plot much or will differ a bit(by a bit I mean a lot)

Major spoilers. I suggest reading after watching the Whole Cake Island arc.
If you still want to try your luck then most spoilers start in Chapter 4

Expect slow updates (I decided to start this at a terrible point... (you can finish this sentence and it'll probably be true :D))

Cross-posted on both Wattpad and Quotev 

Wattpad: https://www.wattpad.com/story/357593568-%E3%83%A2%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%83%AA%E3%82%AA-the-sequel

Quotev: https://www.quotev.com/story/16548752/%E3%83%A2%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%83%AA%E3%82%AA-The-sequel

not fully armoured from grammatical errors

Will have typos, especially with characters and non-English names and so on( Luffy for example, auto-correct thinks it's fluffy or buffy for some reason)

The characters may be OOC but I'll try not to make it too much(the trio can't be helped much)

If you have anything you want to ask or suggest please go ahead. I openly welcome it with open arms.

Ships so far; No ships so far
Should I do ships? And what ships?

Ships are not permanent so they can change(if a majority of you don't like them)

Might change or add more disclaimers in the future

Chapter Text

"We're here guys," Zoro shouted looking at the island. Luffy and Zoro quickly came out from inside the ship to where Zoro was. They finally made it to the last island, Laugh Tale, but the atmosphere was anything but joyous. "Nami, Ussop, Chopper, Robin, Franky, Brook, and everyone else we made it to the last island, I wish you guys were here for it." Luffy lowered his hat to hide the tears coming out.

Zoro and Sanji noticing this decided to keep quiet and anchor Sunny. "C'mon let's go explore the island. Surely we can find something interesting" Sanji, lighting a new cigarette suggested hoping it would get his captain's mind off their crew mate.

。°。°。°。°。°time skip after exploring most of the island。°。°。°。°。°。

Nearing the middle of LaughTale, the trio sensed a strong but weak aura that seemed to be wandering around the clearing. Immediately their guards were up and were ready to attack any moment. "No way... are you guys seeing the same thing- no the same person I'm seeing or did we also die without realizing this?"

Sanji's cigarette fell to the ground as he voiced everyone's thoughts. "I think we're seeing the same person's curly brows. Why are we seeing Gol D. Roger?" At the mention of the name, the person turned to them and quickly ran towards them.

"Th-there coming this way! run!" Luffy grabbed the other two and ran the opposite directions now being a wild goose chase around the field. "Hey wait! Listen to meeee!" "Leave us alone you ghost. we can deal with you!"

An hour later after running and Bickering, they all collapsed from the running(in Roger's case floating?). "HE'S JUST LIKE THE STORIES WE HEARD FROM RAYLEIGH AND THE REST!!!" The trio had the same thought while Roger just laughed.

"Now that you guys are no longer running away are you willing to listen to me? I mean you came here to obtain the one piece and be king of the pirates? right?" The air became stiff and nobody spoke, the tension so thick you could cut it with a knife.

"Yes... that's my dream. I made it this far but it is no longer a happy thing... no longer worth it..." Zoro and Sanji put a hand on Luffy to comfort him, telling him he's not alone. "Ah, I see. You lost those precious to you so the title of pirate king doesn't mean much as it did before.."

"It's just as you said... we lost our precious crew and family... we are the only ones left," Sanji said in between puffs of smoke. Roger nodded in understatement and didn't need any more clarification. He suddenly took a thinking position thinking deeply about something. The trio took this chance to regain themselves

"I got it!" Roger semi-shouts hitting his hand into his palm(that action characters do when they realize something)"Hah? What do you mean got something?" Zoro asked with displeasure on his face not wanting any weird antics again.

"How about I give you a chance?" Roger now started floating around the trio waiting. "A chance? What for? Is it the last thing before becoming pirate king?" the trio's eyes followed the ghost, slightly shivering as the temperature dropped. "This feeling is similar to the ghosts in the thriller bark." They thought sweat dropping.

Roger stopped in front of them with a stare that went straight to their soul his smile growing bigger than it possibly could. "how would you guys like to have a do-over?"Silence covered the area and no movement was made. Everything was so stiff and suffocating that all nearby animals ran away from the vicinity.

"You are kidding, right? There's no way anyone can travel back in time. even with a devil fruit, it isn't possible." Sanji, logically reasoning, tried to understand what Roger was saying. He was always the most knowledgeable when it came to the monster trio after all.

"You lost your crew and precious ones, right? And so now the titles and dreams you once strived for are like a piercing ache every time no longer holding the meaning they once had. Am I right to assume so?" They nod, not trusting their words or they may lash out. It was recently, after all, everything he said.

"You're not pulling our leg right?" Zoro spoke with many visible emotions in his eyes mostly guilt and sadness "I'm not. And even if I was why would I suggest something impossible and absurd if I couldn't do it? Even I know just how much weight of what I said has." Roger said with a seriousness almost similar to Luffy when his dead set on something.

And so the wings of the pirate king calmed down and steadied themselves in a more relaxed and hopeful manner. With a sigh that seemed to let go of everything that weighed them down and a newfound hope to lead them, they gave it a chance. "Tell us everything." In sync the two wings said but they didn't start bickering

"I can take you back to the past with your memories and current strength intact. The only downside is that you'll be at you're younger bodies more specifically when you guys are around 7 and 9yrs. I should also mention that you guys will be the only ones to remember." Luffy, who had been dead silent the whole time, gained the spotlight, and all eyes were on him.

"whatcha think captain? whatever you say we'll follow you no matter what." "He's right. you are the only one who has the final say." Sanji and Zoro looked at Luffy patiently waiting for what he had to say. Roger too but he stayed silent figuring they needed time alone.

Luffy thought of everyone he lost, Ace, His crew, his family, the alliance and grand fleet, and even people like Bon Clay, Whitebeard, the worst generation, and former enemies. If he could go back in time and start fresh then "Let's do it. Send us to the past and let us have a fresh start. This time, and this time we won't let anyone precious to us die again."

"I like you. You truly are meant to be a pirate king." Roger seemed to gain life every second near the trio becoming more livelier for a ghost. "So do you have anything you want to discuss before you go back? you will be in different places, right?"

"W-WE FORGOT!!" Shouting as they dawned on them they each recollected what they were during those ages. "I was about to find and join the dojo." "Old man Zeff and I started the baratie and were about to open it" "The mountain bandits kidnapped me and Shanks lost his arm."

Sanji and Zoro sweat-dropped as they remembered what Luffy's childhood was like. Roger on the other hand had mixed reactions when he heard Shanks. "You know Shanks? How is he? Is he well? Did he give you your straw hat?" If he could touch Luffy right then and there he would be shaking him like a ragdoll.

"I do and he was the one who gave me this hat, we made a promise on it." Staring at the hat contently, he decided to get back on point."That's good. You guys should continue about the time travel and call me once you're ready."Roger said heading off in a random direction.

"Well, you heard the man. but first, let's go get something to eat no?" Sanji said as if on cue their stomachs growled. "Right. Meat!"

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - More than one person talking/thinking or shouting/mad (May change this)

Luffy - To be revealed

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

At the sunny where they returned, Sanji started cooking the goods they hunted and Luffy waited with Zoro at the table mostly holding back Luffy from trying to steal a bite. Although no one says anything, the atmosphere seemed to brighten up the most today, especially after the deaths of the others.

"So how do we go about the time travel periods?" I started trying to get an idea from either two even himself. No verbal confirmation was needed between them to go to the past they just needed to work out the details. "Do we meet each other as soon as possible when we return or wait until the day you recruit us?"

Sanji almost finished with the dish test tasting for anomalies(they never will be if he's cooking), "Maybe we should have a code or something like that? To confirm we all traveled in time." "Oh I know, I know how what we did in Alabasta?"

"It won't work," the two said together quickly shutting down that method. "where going back to our previous bodies unless Roger can make it so we can go with the mark then it won't work." Sanji now fully into the discussion placed the plates of food in front of each other and sat down.

"Thank you for the meal!" "how about something only uses three know? Say like Roger's spirit for example? That's something only us three know." Zoro finished charging down a bottle of sake. "Where is he anyway? I thought he would be here or nearby at least?"

"Welsh Che said Josh Cell Shim anth feel athier. (well he said we just call him and he'll appear)." Luffy with a stuffed mouth and still stuffing said "SWALLOW YOUR FOOD FIRST LUFFY!!!" The two shouted and hit his head not wanting to deal with his antics. sighs

"he's right you know? I did say that." Silence. Slowly the trio's heads turned to the sudden voice. ". . . WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE/WHERE DID YOU COME FROM!?COOOOL!"

"I've been here from the moment you served food. you see..."

。°。°。°。°。°A few minutes ago 。°。°。°。°。°

. . . . ╰──╮Roger's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"I wonder how those three youngsters are doing? They are pretty strong from first glance but... " he paused not sure if he should continue or not. Not like anyone can hear him; the animals notice him but that's as far as it goes.

It truly gets lonely. 'Those three are such a nice surprise... sniff sniff is that food?' An understandable curiosity took over me and I followed the source. "I guess one of the three is a chef. Most likely the blonde."

。°。°。°。°。°Back to the present 。°。°。°。°。°

. . . . ╰──╮Normal pov╭──╯ . . . .

"And so here I am." Roger finished his story and the rest stared silently but Luffy had other ideas "Can ghosts even eat food?" he asked with sparkles in his eyes "Yes I can" "AWESOME/THATS NOT THE POINT!"

"Anyways do you guys know what you plan to do?" "We were just discussing that right now before you showed up." Sanji continued to eat and so did the rest like it's a normal occurrence (it was but we don't talk about that).

"what about we say '1 hat, 2 legs, 3 swords'?" Zoro suggested pausing. "It is something unique to us and will be to only ones that would know what I mean." he finished.

(A/N sorry if it's not clear. The hat is Luffy, the legs Sanji, and the swords are Zoro. I couldn't find anything better for Sanji to his chef side so I went with legs as he only fights with them.)

"Then it's agreed. 1 hat, 2 legs, and 3 swords is our code." Luffy said in seriousness leaving no room for negotiation not that there was any. They all just smirked "Now, the next thing is where shall we meet and when. It has to be after Zoro joins the dojo and more especially after Luffy gets the straw hat." Sanji started taking puffs of his cigarette between sentences. "I don't think there'll be many problems in the baratie starting whether I'm there or not."

"Then how about we meet at the baratie after a few months when we've done what we need to do? It'll be the least conspicuous place for us to meet." Zoro said. Luffy and Sanji agreed as it was the same thing they were thinking. "I can even introduce you guys to Shanks! He's the best you'll see!"

"We know." they all said together even the forgotten Roger. "You talk about him every time plus he's famous/ I knew he'd be great." And so with that, they continued eating.

Once they all finished their meals they all separately went and did what they needed to do before leaving. Luffy strolling through the sunny one last time; Zoro clearing ship of his weights and trying equipment neatly putting them in the watchtower; and Sanji cleaning the kitchen and dining area as well as the aquarium(they won't need fish so they let them go or smth like that).

With their final preparations completed, they called Roger's spirit, which wasn't that far. "We're ready to go," Zoro said with his hands on his swords slightly reminiscing on the time he used and got them.

"Before you depart I must tell you. This is the first time I'm sending people to the past so there may be chances of other things, fortunately not humans or animals, to go back as well. If it does happen and it happens to be something you know like an object from the ship, depending on how important the object is you can choose to ignore it or take it into your possession."

"So like a photo or a gadget?" "Exactly. It's time so the portal should be opening any second now; let's talk and meet again!" Roger said waving standing a good distance from the trio.

When he said that, the portal opened up underneath them while the trio shouted "WHAT DO YOU MEAN SE-". And so with that, the trio are swallowed up by the potato and going to the past. Still with burning questions.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - More than one person talking/thinking or shouting/mad (May change this)

Luffy - To be revealed

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

. . . . ╰──╮Luffy Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"ngh. No more... Stop it.."I drowsily said to however was shaking me awake. " C'mon now Luffy. Wake up you're starting to worry me." I shot up surprised barely avoiding hitting the person. "Makino? Is that you?" "oh, Luffy! thank goodness you are okay. It looked like you were having a bad dream and wouldn't stop thrashing and sweating." She said checking my body as if bruises had magically appeared.

Still in shock, I said nothing letting everything register. I looked around and saw I was in my old room when I used to live in the village and more so I'm in my old body beside Makino.

"Are you okay Luffy? Should I call a doctor? You should rest I'll bring you some seater to drink." Makino said leaving my room and heading to the kitchen quickly coming back.

"Makino..." I held her hand needing the physical comfort and she seemed to notice that and pulled me in a hug. "what is it?" "I had a scary dream that you were not here with me anymore not only you but everyone precious in my life."

'I can't tell her that we traveled back in time. As long as nobody mentions it I won't have to say anything. I can't lie as it is. I wonder if Zoro and Sanji made it successfully I can't tell unless we meet up...'

"oh, Luffy... I'll always be here for you. How about you stay here and let Shanks know what's going on, he is supposed to come back today no?"

"Shanks!? Where is he? I wanna see him now!" I said freed from the hug and scrambling to move around excitedly "Good to see you energetic again and he should be arriving anytime today."

"Then what are we waiting for? Let's get the bar ready for them!" I said already in my usual clothes of a shirt with 'anchor on them and a pair of shorts. "your right. And once you're done you could go wait for them by the dock?"

"shishishishi yeah!" we both smiled as we went on to the bar.

(A/n: The village all equally take care of Luffy ( like shown in some parts of the anime) and it's not shown where he stays before meeting Dadan so I suspect he stayed with Makino and helped around but rarely so knowing him)

. . . . ╰──╮Sanjis Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"-You again!" I shot up abruptly panic-stricken. 'where am I? What was that all about?' shaking my head I got out of bed and walked out of the room.

'Is this the baratie? Oh yeah, we went back to the past. Did the rest make it? I hope they're okay.' I traversed the baratie and ended up in the kitchen.

"Hello? Is anyone there? Old geezer?" "In here you little runt!" I turned to the source of the voice which so happened to be the store room for the food. "What are you doing?" I asked popping my head through the door

"can't you see? I'm stocking up before we open next week. And you still need to mop the floors and arrange the tables and chairs." he said kicking me with his wooden leg from where he stood.

"oww. Alright alright, I get it. You don't have to hit me you geezer " I whined rubbing my head 'even now his kicks hurt like hell' I turned going to do the chores with a faint smile on my face

. . . . ╰──╮Zeff's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"What the hell was that..." 'Since when did kanji get such a monstrous power? It's radiating off of him like a fierce fire.' sigh "Are you the Sanji I know?" I whispered leaving my shocked state doing what I was doing.

. . . . ╰──╮Zoro's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"--y. -ak- -p. Wake up!" "huh, what's up? Why'd you wake me?" I blinked looking around to see everything calm. The man sighs "we made it near the village you wanted to go to. We're about to head our separate ways. We'll be there around the next 2 days in the afternoon at our pace."

"That's good. Thanks." I said doing a small bow out of appreciation. 'Luffy, Sanji, and everyone else. This time, this time I swear I'll protect you all. I will get stronger

。°。°。°。°。°Two days later。°。°。°。°。°。

"we're here. This is where we depart ways," he said stopping in front of the entrance "Goodbye, I wish you luck on your journey" " You too" and with that, we went our separate ways; him to continue traveling and I to the Dojo

I walk through the town market going the path to the dojo. 'I miss my swords... Feels weird without them. Other than that I won't be able to drink sake for a long while.' Sighing I continue with the help of the locals.

"Gotta make sure I don't act weird around Kuina. She may find out before I go out to sea and that may cause problems." I continued walking mumbling to myself till I bumped into someone.

"oh sorry. I didn't see you" "No problem." I assured while looking at him 'he's wearing the dojo uniform...'
"Say, can you help me? I'm looking for the dojo."

" uh if you want the dojo you have to go the opposite direction you were heading... Let's go together! I can even introduce you to Master." I nodded and indicated that he led the way. "All alright let's go"

(A/n: the encounter between Zoro and the dojo may be different from anime so I apologize for that.)

。°。°。°。°。°A few minutes later。°。°。°。°。°。

Sitting down in front of the master, I bow and, "Teach me the ways of the sword!" "And why should I?" "They're are people I have to protect," I said taking a glance at Kuina who stood silently behind but wanted to say something.

"... If you want to learn the way of the sword then prove to me that you have the strength to. You'll fight kuina. The best here and my daughter."

"Bring it on!" Not minutes later the middle of the room was clear with everyone but kuina in the middle. "I can use as many swords as I want?" "Go ahead" the master approved.

I took three swords in my mouth and both hands making a total of nine." when you ready let's begin." I quickly took my stance and waited for the start signal. "BEGIN!"

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - More than one person talking/thinking or shouting/mad (May change this)

Luffy - To be revealed

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

. . . . ╰──╮Luffy's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

I run down to the docks having finished helping Makino with cleaning and opening the bar. I passed the villagers yelling various greetings to each other and back.

Reaching the shore I stand at the edge of the water staring at the distance. "Why do you go for a swim Luffy?" I looked in the direction of the voice seeing it was one of the fishermen.

"I can't" "Huh? Are you not well? Maybe you should wait inside." ' oh yeah, I've not eaten my devil fruit yet. I should still be able to swim. Do I even remember how to swim?'

"Luffy?" I snapped out of thinking burning a fuse in my head. "Im good shishishishishi." "Well if you say so" I sit down and start eating the meat Makino packed for me.

。°。°。°。°。° few hours later。°。°。°。°。°。

. . . . ╰──╮Shank's Pov ╭──╯ . . . .

"Island up ahead!" One of the crew shouted from the crow nest "Alright men get ready to dock and party!" I ordered followed by cheers. "Hey captain, I think I see Luffy there on the dock. Seems pretty excited as well."

"Ah! We finally get to see Little Anchor. I wonder what he's up to?" I said as Yassop gave me the binoculars to see Luffy. He was jumping up and down, waving with a smile brighter than the sun.

Once we got closer to the island -you could hear his hellos and excitement-, a sudden wave of haki was felt "Shanks, this is bad, the newbies are dropping one by one." Benn, my right-hand man, said glaring at the island.

"Let me see who it is for ... No way..." I stumble back in evident shock "Who is it?" Lucky Roux asked growing more concerned. "It's, it's anchor! Luffy is the one with the overwhelming Haki!"

"Whaaaaaaaat!? How could it be? him?" Everybody who was still up shouted in disbelief. "I know but who else could it be? No marines are here and we made sure of that every time we came here. He's the only one I know of with potential on the island."

Groans we heard as they had no choice but to agree. "But the question remains should we mention it or leave it be?" "Guess we'll have to wait and find out... We're about to dock so get ready and act normal. We don't want to worry about the village now, do we?

" RIGHT/ROGER!" The crew complied and did as told waking up the sleeping part of the crew, docking the ship, and de-bording.

. . . . ╰──╮Luffy's Pov ╭──╯ . . . .

"You're here! You're finally here!" "What? Did you miss us that much?" Shank said giggling, sticking his tongue out. "No." laughs erupted from the crew making me more grumpy.

The only saving grace is Benn. "Now, now, we shouldn't tease him like this. Let's go to the bar and have fun." " yeah! I wanna hear all about your adventures" I said smiling even more grabbing their hands and pulling them to the bar.

"Makino where here!" I said pushing the door open and seeing Makino wiping the counters "Welcome back you guys. The usual?" "You Know It!"

。°。°。°。°。°。Later in the night。°。°。°。°。°

. . . . ╰──╮3rd person╭──╯ . . . .

Shanks heads out of the bar while most of his crew are passed out in the bar, Benn being the only one awake and helping Makino in the aftermath.

He went in the same direction as Luffy in hopes of confronting him 'What happened to you Luffy? Is it a pure coincidence or is it purposeful? I'm worried...'

In a spiral of his thoughts, Shanks manages to find Luffy sitting on the edge of a cliff looking onto the sea. "Anchor." "Huh? Oh, it's you, Shanks. I didn't think anyone would find me here Shishishi."

"Are you good? Is something troubling you?" "What do you mean? I'm perfectly fine." Luffy tilted his head at Shanks not sure where his getting at. "I mean are you even the luffy I know? You've had this look in your eyes that you know things that you shouldn't especially for your age. There's also this longing look you've been giving me and the crew and to top it off you suddenly have this tremendous haki and power rolling off of you."

Luffy looked anywhere but Shanks reflexively putting his hand to his head, where his hat would be but wasn't. "You are doing it again..." "Huh?" "Putting your hand on your head like there should be a hat or something. It's annoying."

'Uh oh, he knows. What should I do? I wish Ussop was here he comes up with something. I know Shanks means well but I don't think I can face him. There is also the problem of the haki. Can't believe I forgot to conceal it.' Luffy thought sweating bullets.

"Well?" I'm waiting. Will you speak or do I have to force it out of you?" "I, I can't say." " Looks like we'll have to do this the hard way, you chose this."

Shanks suddenly jumps onto Luffy and tickles him "Tell me or I won't stop." " hahah- no hehe stop it, Shanks! Shishishi no more." This continued for another few minutes.

"Alright, alright! Hahaha, I'll tell you- heh so stop!" "Good I finally got through to you." shanks said stopping and letting go of Luffy. Luffy took the moment to recover.

"Okay. Before I tell you anything you must promise me not to tell anyone else about what I'm about to say." Luffy stated with a seriousness that scared Shanks for a moment. "I promise, Luffy."

. . . . ╰──╮ Luffy's Pov ╭──╯ . . . .

"Good. Now the thing is... I'm from the future." Shanks looked at me in disbelief as soon as I said that. 'I don't blame him for not believing me. He must think I've gone crazy or eaten a poisonous mushroom.'

"Are you serious?" "Yes. Let me reintroduce myself. I am Monkey D. Luffy age 19 I had a crew of my own and I became the pirate king."

(A/n: I might have not written it but Luffy after finding out he had a second chance quietly accepted the title of pirate king.)

As soon as I said that shanks looked at me like I had grown another head. "I see then, so that explains everything huh?" Shanks said more to himself than me.

"Wait you believe me?" "Why shouldn't I? You can't lie, that would be like you not eating meat." When Shanks said that my stomach reacted and rumbled

"I'm hungry... Let's go eat!" "Then how about I go get us some food? You can think of where to start that story of yours about the past. I wanna know everything."

"Shishi okay! I'll be waiting." Shank soon left for the bar and I gazed into the sea. Then suddenly a voice came to my mind { you seemed troubled.} "I am... I'm not sure if I should tell him everything or not. Even if we want to change how things turn out what if it makes it worse."

"I say tell him the important parts like him losing his arm and the Paramount war." I hum thinking about what Roger said. Wait for Roger? {He's right. You don't have to tell him everything, just tell him what you didn't him to know. I'm sure he'll understand}

"HUH!? Roger? Wait this all too much. Very confusing." "Yeah I admit that me talking to you was earlier than expected. So remember what I last said before? This is what I meant. The same things as previous still apply."

"I get it." {That man is coming back so I shall leave you be} "I as well. Gotta check up on your other two crewmates." And just as they came they left the same way.

'I know what to say now. I just hope he doesn't ask for more' I started humming to a random song while waiting for Shanks. Just as I was finished, I felt shanks behind me.

"I'm back," He said setting the food down and sitting beside me. "So are you ready?" "Yes but before I do you have to understand that there are some things I can't say."

"Don't worry anchor, even I know not to push you to tell me too much or I might change something for the worse." I nod my head content. "ok so it starts like this..."

I told Shanks everything he needed to know from him losing his arm -which won't happen again-, my life and adventures and my crew, to the paramount war, excluding the whitebeard and black beard part, him saving me again and finally the war before I reached Laugh Tale.

I didn't tell him about the devil fruit just in case cause I can't risk not getting it. I can't be me without it after all.

(a/n To clarify, for the whitebeard part he only excluded the death. he did mention Ace's death though)

Shank was silent throughout the whole thing. He looked as if many emotions and thoughts were going through him he couldn't pick one. "It's ok Shanks. You don't have to say anything, I know how you feel and it's ok."

"... right." For the rest of the night, we just sat in silence till we decided to go back, and even then still no words were said.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - More than one person talking/thinking or shouting/mad (May change this)

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

。°。°。°。°。°A few days later 。°。°。°。°。°。

After Luffy told Shanks everything that night, the two continued their days as before. They could not do anything, at least not now, so why worry?

"Here you go, " he said, placing a transponder snail on the counter. If I may ask, who are you going to be calling?" "Yassop's family, more specifically his wife," Shanks replied, entering the bar with a nervous Yassop behind him.

"A little birdie told me that she's sick and will soon die, only leaving her son, Your Son, behind all alone." Emphasis on 'your son' was mostly directed to the father of said son.

"I see. Then I'll leave you to it." Makino left, leaving only Shanks, the nervous Yassop, and Luffy. "Go on now, surely you don't want to be the reason she dies of regret."

"Okay. But why is he here? Out of everyone, he should be the last." " I wanna talk to Ussop! But you have to go first, so I'll wait. Shishishishi."

Taking a deep breath, Yassop took the phone(?) and put in the numbers. Puru puru puru- "what if it's the wrong number or they changed it!?" -puru puru puru- "don't wuss out. Aren't you a brave person?~"

"puru pur-ca-lick. Hello? Who is it?" There was a weak female voice on the phone who answered, "It's me, Yassop. How are you doing? You don't sound so well.

There was the sound of an object breaking in the background, most likely glass or something fragile. "*gasp* Is that you, Yassop? I've missed you. It's been so long, why haven't you called till now?

"Yes, yes, it is. I was afraid you wouldn't talk to me ever since I left you and Ussop." "Don't be silly. Why wouldn't I want to talk to you again? You're doing something you love."

Taken aback by the sudden confession, Yassop grew silent and hid his face from the other two in the room. The other two, with a smug yet knowing expression, left the room, giving the two some alone time.

"Banchina...*sniff* how's Ussop doing? Does he hate me?" "I know he doesn't. He respects you, he said so himself. He would always shout every day that pirates were here to help me, hoping that each time you would come."

"How about this time I do show up? I can ask my captain if we can pass by. Plus, a  friend wants to talk to Ussop." The other side of the phone was silent, Banchina too shocked to say anything.

"Banchina? Is everything alright?" "Ahh, no, no, oh, it's just you shocked me, is all. I would be delighted if you could visit us." 

The rest of the call was just them catching up and telling of their days.

。°。°。°。°。°With Luffy and Shanks。°。°。°。°。°

"So, anchor, who taught you Haki? You're doing a great job of concealing your haki. You mentioned you had a teacher during the 2 year separation." "Oh, it was Rayleigh. He taught me all I know."

"You mean to say you know Rayleigh, first mate of Roger!?" "shishishi yup! That's the one." To say that Shanks was shocked is an understatement. Look a little closer at his unmoving body, you can see his soul leaving him.

"What am I even saying? *sighs* I should have expected as much, but the same master?" If you thought Luffy's smile couldn't grow any larger, then you were wrong. It did, and it terrified Shanks even more.

"Well, my first mate was taught by Hawks, and two of my nakama were taught by revolutionaries." Shanks was grateful that no one was nearby to see his state, his eyes bulging out of their sockets and lounge doing the same mouth wide open as his jaw touched the ground 'Shishishi, he looks like Ussop whenever he panics'

As if the wind were alive, it blows against Shank's face, snapping him out of it "... You know what anchor? No more normal not normal things today k?, If you tell me something like that again, I don't think my brain can handle it, let alone my heart."

Luffy hums in understanding, "Where are you going this time?" "I can't tell you this time, but we'll be back in a week or so," Shanks responded, not needing any clarification on what he was asking. You can't come either. I know you are stronger than before cause of your whole situation, but it's still a no."

The room was silent but neither uncomfortable nor pleasurable. "I got it. I'll wait for you then. You gotta come back. We still have to go to Syrup Village and see Ussop, and before you leave the East Blue for good, there's one more place we gotta go to."

Shanks smiled gently, ruffling Luffy's hair. Don't worry, we will. We'll do all the things you want to do together."
Yeahh!"

They talked for an hour each time, telling stories from their adventures. "Well, I  have to go and check up on Yassop and how the stocking on the ship is going. We leave during the afternoon if you wanna come see us off."

"Kay. See ya soon," and so Shanks left, waving one last time at each other. Luffy wasn't sure what to do now. 'I could go and talk to the animals around here... Maybe I should find Ace and Sabo? No, that could be bad...'

Just as Luffy was aimlessly walking around thinking (unlike him), a familiar voice came. "Hello there. Is now a good time to talk?" "Ah! Roger! Tell me."

During the aimless walking, Luffy found himself in a secluded part of the island, luckily for him. "Well, it's safe to say that your two nakama made it successfully, but it's still best to use your code when you meet."

Hearing this, Luffy started jumping up and down, grinning a grin showing all his teeth. "Shishishi, it's awesome" ".I thought you'd cry? Weren't you sad or afraid?" "Well," Luffy started, and put a hand over his heart to his chest and felt the drums. "I know they are strong, so there's nothing to worry about. I believe in my nakama."

"I see... How foolish of me. How about we change the topic? Do you plan on meeting and helping your crew right now? Say the archaeologist or Skeleton?" "I'm not sure. Nami is absolutely something we can't interfere with until she asks for our help. Robin should be fine the way she is right even if it is not good, and for Brook... If we get him out of the triangle, he won't have a place to go till I become a pirate, but if he stays there, he'll be lonely..."

"So that's the situation, nhmm. So the only ones you can probably meet without changing much are most likely only Ussop, huh?" "And he's the only one in the East Blue, so that limits me to him."

"Why don't you try getting Shanks to carry you? he knows your situation." "...Alright! I've decided to think about this after I meet up with Zoro and Sanji. I want meat!" and on cue, all the animals surrounding them vanish,  not wanting to be dinner, "Eh, don't hide from me, meat!"Luffy quickly stood up and started having his soon-to-be dinner, leaving Roger alone.

A/n:
Thanks for reading this chapter!
I hope I got the sound of the transponder snail right.
Bye and have a great day/night.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy -  Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

"Begin!" At the sound of the Master shouting, Zoro didn't wait for a second and barged straight in. Throwing attacks that seem illogical but have a purpose.

'What is he doing? Does he think he can beat me with those kinds of attacks? Or does he have a plan? I should be careful around him.' Kuina thought as she blocked or parried each attack.

"Three sword style," Zoro mumbled, catching Kuina off guard, but quickly recovered, putting distance between them.  "Three sword style? Don't be foolish just because you have nine swords. And what good does it serve you to put three of them in your mouth?"

"I'll show you! Just wait. I'm going to become the strongest swordsman in the world! Onigiri!" As Zoro finished, he charged forward as fast as his body could, hitting Kuina in the abdomen.

Kuina skids back, knees bending slightly at the impact. "Ack. This ends now!" She quickly acted and attacked Zoro, making him drop his swords and fall back. "Winner Kuina!"

"Zoro," the master shortly started after, "I've seen your strength and it is clear that you have a goal whose path is a steep, dangerous slope, but for that, I will let you become a student of this dojo."

Everybody in the room stood in silence, minds slowly processing what he just said. Zoro, the first to react, bowed in appreciation. "Thank you, master." "You officially start tomorrow, so go get ready, and everybody else goes back to training." Scrambling, everyone in the room did a bow.

"YES, MASTER."

. . . . ╰──╮Zoro's  Pov╭──╯ . . . .

I quickly left the dojo and headed in a random direction. 'That wasn't as strong as I expected... But I guess that's to be expected since I'm in a younger, smaller body. I stopped and looked at my hands.

'And my body is slightly numb. Can't fully move my fingers... Glad that my body somewhat remembers what it feels like, or it would be more severe.' I sighed and went to sit underneath a nearby tree and got comfortable.

"Well, there's no point in thinking about it now. I'll just sleep for now. *Yawn* Maybe later I can see that old man and ask him about Wano..." 

    。°。°。°。°。° hours later。°。°。°。°。°。

"Hey, hey, wake up! Don't tell me you're dead." 'Huh, whose voice is that for?  Go away, I'm trynna sleep here.' I turn my body away from the person, getting comfortable in another position.

"Well, he's certainly not dead or dying for sure, I'll check on him another time." Soon after, whoever that was said that it when quiet again and I continued sleeping for more hours.

*Bonk* *Hit* *Thwack* 

"!!! What was that for?" I quickly sat up, wasting no time, and massaged where I was hit. I look up at my abuser and see the old man I was talking about earlier. 'Speak of the devil and he shall appear, though he's rude about waking someone up'

"What are you doing here, kid? Don't have a place to stay?" I scowl, glaring at the unbothered old man. "What does it concern you, huh!? You just attacked me in my sleep!" I shouted at him, though it seemed it went in through one ear and out the other, making me more annoyed 

'He doesn't even look the littlest bit sorry!' He took a deep breath of the pipe he had in his hand, moved the pipe from his hands, blew it out, then looked back at me. "Follow me."

I looked at him as if he was crazy, probably was but. "C'mon, now we're going back to my house and you staying there. "Have you gone, senile old man? I'm just some random kid you saw and just met now you're making me stay  with you?"

"And? You're coming with me and that's it," he quickly put his pipe away -putting it out first- then dragged me by my clothes to his house, wherever that is.

(A/n: There has never been any indication as to where Zoro stays unless it was full-time in the Dojo. During his flashback in Wano during the raid, he was close to the old man, so here I'll make it so he lives with him, cause why not?)

Once we reached there, it was a simple house with a kitchen, a living room, a bathroom, and two bedrooms with a verandah all around it. (Just think of a Japanese-style house you usually see with the rooms mentioned.) Beside it was a small shed that looked more like a workshop the closer we got.

"Old man," I started when we were inside. "I got some questions for you." "They can wait after dinner, no?" "... I suppose so" "Good now sit down and wait like a good kid." I silently did as he asked looking around.

"Oh, good, you're awake now." "You that voice I had in my sleep... are you here to haunt me?" "No, on the contrary, I'm here to help you." A figure appeared in front of me, slowly forming the spirit "Roger!? I thought I wouldn't see you again. Why are you here?"

"Well, I wanna see how you live this life and it seems you are off to a good start. And before you ask, both your nakama made it back. In fact, I just came from talking with them." "Really!? how are they?"

"They're good, and their previous strength came back to all of you. They didn't think of concealing their Haki, though; unlike you, Luffy only did so after someone pointed it out, and Sanji is still flaring." 

A smile came to my face and I couldn't contain my laugh "Bwahahahahaha that's- that's so them hahaha idiot cook was probably too happy to even realize hahaha I bet Shanks was the one." In my world, I didn't realize the old man behind me with the food in his hands. He placed the food down and sighed, head chopping me.

"If you have time to talk and laugh by yourself like that, then you've got time to ask me those questions of yours," I groaned, composing myself and taking one last look at Roger.

"Remember, only you and your two Nakama can see and hear me. I'll be taking my leave now; I suggest tomorrow you go to the shore, something is waiting for you." And with that, he left.

"What did you want to ask me?" The atmosphere in the room dropped slightly due to the seriousness of the topic. "Are you from Wano Kuni?"

"Yes, I am," he answered unfazed, "And you're a swordsmith, right?" 'he said he crafted two powerful, cursed swords and named one after the king of hell Enma! And the other one being Wado ichimonji.'

"I was one..." he stopped to light his pipe and took a drag out of it. "I no longer make swords for killing. I made two back when I was young, that's it.

Another long drag from the pipe. "I named one after the ruler of the underworld, Enma. I had soon afterward Wano."

'I don't know how a kid like him got to know all this information, but I guess telling him a bit or two is okay since he's training to be a swordsman.'

"Are you the reason that a sword from Wano appeared in the East Blue? more specifically here?" The food was long forgotten about (most of it was eaten), and the room was now an interrogation. 'Luckily that was my last question then we can call it a day.'

" So what if I did? Is it wrong for a swordsmith to carry one of their works when they leave?" "I see. That's all the questions have. Which room will I be staying in?"

I asked, standing and going in the direction of the rooms," The one on your left.... The other side!!" I quickly went into the room and closed the door behind me. Looking around the room, there was a simple desk and chair, a wardrobe, and a futon in the middle. I entered the bed and slept, tired of what had happened.

a/n:

I hope I got Kuina and the old man's personalities right or close, since they don't appear much, it was hard to write them.

 You might be asking why I decided to do Zoro and the Old Man together, and my answer is that most male characters have a grandfather/father-only figure. Like Sanji and Zeff, or like Itadori (JJK) and Jin Mori (GoH) with their grandfathers. 

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

. . . . ╰──╮Rogers pov╭──╯ . . . .

I reach the Baratie, sensing Sanji's presence everywhere. "Perhaps I should have given them more time to talk about this Haki problem. Only Zoro. Concealed his, but he seems more like muscle memory than conscious doing... oh well"

I entered and saw a few people: two people sitting at the nearest table to the kitchen, mostly new employees, a family, a couple, and a single person. "Judging by the people, Sanji should be in the back?"

I go over in the direction of the kitchen, passing through the door and seeing Sanji being instructed(more like kicked) by Zeff on how to act around the recruits. I quietly sit in the back watching how everything unfolds.

"Alright, Squirt. remember what you gotta do?" "Not flirt with the ladies." Zeff nodded in approval. "I'm going to test them now so you deal with the customers."

With that, he left, and Sanji sighed a breath of relief. "I thought he was gonna kick me... I might have missed him and the Baratie, but his kicks are debatable. "

. . . . ╰──╮Sanjis pov╭──╯ . . . .

I stand up, going to get a notebook and a pen. The old man probably wants to use the customer's orders to test them.

I turn in the direction of the door only to find a stupidly familiar bright smiling face, "Roger..." "You don't seem surprised like your captain was."

A fire burned around me as I grit my teeth (like in Thriller Bark when he learned Nami was getting married) "How dare you!! Sure we said we were ready but that doesn't mean you can abruptly shove us down that portal and still have things to say! You were better off giving us more time!! I swear if I could kick you I would. count your blessings."

I finished taking a deep sigh releasing all the pent-up emotions. "Now if you excuse me I'm going to work now so if you have something to say it can wait till I'm free." 'I wish I had a cigarette to smoke right now...'

"G-got it..." Roger said, and I left. I head to the table with the family. "Hello. May I take your orders?" All heads turned to me as I stood there waiting.

"Oh my, aren't you too young to be working little one?" The mother said. "Thank you for your concern ma'am but please don't worry about me."

The parents glanced at each other, concerned, but in the end, gave me their orders. This continued with the remaining customers.

'I want to smoke... Ugh, I forgot how stressful this was when we started, everyone thinking I was forced to work...'

"You got those orders, brat?" Zeff asked as soon as I stood in the kitchen, "Yeah, here they are." I said hand home the notebook.

"Good. Now you two will make these dishes for the customers as your final test; If they approve of it, then you pass, if they don't, then you can try your luck again or leave."

"Fine by us." Zeff gave them the orders and they quickly got to work. Looking over the orders and getting ingredients.

'I could use this opportunity to go on the deck to talk to Roger.' I do just that, calling out for him. "Roger? I'm ready to talk!" I half shouted.

"I'm here." I looked up and saw him sitting on the railing staring at the sea. I go over and join him leaning over the railing and sitting in silence.

A few moments later, he spoke, "Did you ever realize that your haki is flaring?" "What a way to change the mood... Wait, what?!" "Yup, ever since you came back, but I guess you've been too occupied to notice."

"Is it too late to conceal her now? What does the old geezer think?" "I really should have given you guys more time... You do what you want to do, but there is something else you wanna tell him, right?"

"Yeah... I wanna come clean bout my past to him. I also wanna find a way to awaken those genes like I did in Wano." "Don't you dislike them?"

"I do, but," I pause, "If I want to protect what's which's most precious to me, I must get stronger if I have to awaken those genes, then so be it."

"I see" I smiled and looked straight at him. "Plus I have my friends to look after me so everything is gonna be alright. I believe in them."

"Alright then... Maybe your chance will come soon." "Thanks for the comforting words, but you should know that I used to live in the North Blue, right? My best chance is in the Grand Line."

"I seriously mean it. Hear me out..."

。°。°。°。°。°。Flashback 。°。°。°。°。°
. . . . ╰──╮Rogers pov╭──╯ . . . .

"Who knew he was one to value sleep more... oh well, I can just go back to him later and inform him." As I went in the direction of the shore, there I saw "A sword? and *squint* a net catcher...?"

I got closer to the objects, now seeing them as three objects. "A sword, a long sling, short, and a bag... Mhmm, I wonder." I open the bag to see bullets and eggs, rubber bands, dials, and other interesting trinkets.

'This must be one of Zoro's swords, I saw him carrying around the other two... I'd assume they belong to the sharpshooter of the crew. Would explain the slingshot and bullets in the bag.'

"And it seems this one is a curio collector. Anyways, I should get going, it doesn't seem like anyone comes here, so it should be fine leaving it here."

。°。°。°。°。°。Back to the current。°。°。°。°。°
. . . . ╰──╮Normal pov╭──╯ . . . .

"You found Ussop's gadgets and one of Zoro's swords that awesome." Sanji smiled, doing a little happy dance. "That means there's a chance we can get the canned suit and make me stronger!"

"Yup, and if luck favors you, it may be found before you meet with your other nakama." They both went on enjoying the happy news, " Hey brat, we need you in here now on cleaning duty. The guests have gone, and the recruits have already started cleaning."

Zeff shouted from the door. "Well, then I've gone now. Thanks for all the good news, Roger!" Sanji said already heading to the door waving (Zeff left as soon as he relayed his message).

"Goodbye, Sanji. I wish you luck." Giving Roger one last wave, he went in to do as told. "Well then, it's high time I go see Zoro again."

Sanji enters to see everyone left and only the two recruits cleaning and putting the chairs on the table. Looking at the clock, he slightly panics 'It's already evening!? Last I checked, it was still afternoon... Did Roger and I spend that much time talking?'

Shaking off the shock Sanji quickly goes and starts helping the two. Quickly they clear the place and report back to Zeff. "We're done cleaning sir/geezer."

We all said, earning me a kick and the other two flinching. "Good. You may go now and make sure to come back tomorrow." "Yes, sir."

The two quickly left, and it was just Sanji and Zeff. 'Now is a good time to tell him; I don't need to mention the time travel or second life, just everything before we met'

. . . . ╰──╮Sanji's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"Old man, I have something I have to tell you." "Go on, spill it out." I take a deep breath, trying to relax my nerves. "Remember when we first met?"

"Yes. It was when I was a pirate and went after your ship." "So about that... I'm not originally from there or here, for that matter." "What are you trying to say, brat?"

He asked me, getting impatient by the second, you could even see blood vessels. "I'm not from the East Blue, I'm actually from the North Blue."

"If you're joking, that's not funny. No one from the North Blue comes to the East Blue without crossing the red line, or in better words, a large wall that separates us."

"I know it sounds like a joke, but it's true. I come from a place called the Germa Kingdom, and I'm the third son and prince of Vinsmoke Judge, making me Vinsmoke Sanji. I was said to be dead, and that's how I managed to escape from there."

He stared at me in silence for a good minute or two, I'm not sure, but it felt like an eternity. " Tell me everything from the beginning." And so I did from my mother poisoning herself, the abuse, the so-called science they were doing, my fake death, and locking me till my escape with the help of my sister Reiju.

He sat there processing everything I told him while I stared anywhere but at him not sure how he'll react. "Thanks for telling me everything, Sanji, now go rest. I'm sure this has been hard for you.

I stare at him, shocked eyes wide. I softly smiled, trying to control my tears. " Yeah..."

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

It was Noon in Foosha Village and a quiet day in the bar with only a handful of customers, One of them being a vice admiral of the Marines. "Where's that idiot grandson of mine?" he asked eating the meat he ordered.

"Be patient Garp-san. Luffy said he was going to play in the forest, he'll be back in time for lunch so why don't you relax? You must be surrounded by work don't stress yourself much." "Oh Makino, you're such a sweet person... if anyone mistreats you just tell me." Makino smiled and went back to preparing food.

。°。°。°。°。°A few hours later。°。°。°。°。°。

"Makino! Makino! Look Look!" A bubbly boy of sunshine burst through the bar doors with a smile challenging the sun. "Welcome back Luffy. What do you have?" "shishishishi. I saw this super large Hercules beetle and a stag beetle so I made them fight and the Hercules beetle won so I carried it look!"

"That's nice and all, Luffy, but you know we can't have any insects in the bar, plus someone is waiting to see you." Makino urged Luffy to put the beetle out and go to the front of the other side of the counter.

"Hey Luffy, ma boy, how've you been?" *Crack* *crack* Luffy's entire being froze, a chill went down his nerves, and sweat drops covered his skin. "Ji... ji-chan... what a coincidence seeing you here... hehe." "Is it? No, not at all."

Garp went in to give his fist of love to Luffy, but he instinctively dodged, avoiding the hit. Saying that Garp was shocked is an understatement 'How did he dodge!? He's never been able to move out of the way to entirely avoid that...'

Garp's eyes stared in the direction of where Luffy dodged though it was more of a half-glare half-suspicious look. Luffy, not noticing that felt his body everywhere searching for a place he was hit.

"*sigh* I'm safe..." "Let's try that again, shall we? *crack* Luffy..." Luffy quickly got up in a defensive stance, ready to run. " No! I don't wanna! mean ji-chan!" "You won't be lucky next time, now stay still."

Garp quickly went into the hold just enough to avoid the bar furniture, but more power to hit Luffy with. With each swing, Luffy barely avoided being hit and quickly ran out of the bar and into the direction of the forest.

"Gumo-gumo no rocket!" Luffy stretched his hands out in front of him but nothing happened 'Crap!! I forgot I haven't eaten my devil fruit yet!' At that moment, Garp hit him right on his head using more strength than in each previous attempt.

Luffy passed out on the spot, collapsing face-first, his body exhausted from running and dodging Garp's attack and Garp's blow to his head. 'What's going on? he managed to dodge all my attacks like he knew they were coming, unlike previously, I would always land the first time...'

Garp stared at Luffy, then the back of his fist -which was redder than usual- then back again at Luffy, trying to understand all that happened. After a few moments of looking back and forth and trying to understand, he gave up.

"Luffy, my boy, just don't become a pirate... You have a D. in your name, and your dad is the world's most wanted criminal. I can't protect you when you are out in the sea, so just stay here and live a normal life." Garp said melancholy, looking at the sky. "Both you and Ace."

Taking hold of Luffy, he gently put him on his back and walked back to the bar. At the bar, there were no people but Makino with a med kit and a plate of food. "Here, sit down and eat." Garp put Luffy on the chair next to Makino and then sat down in his chair.

Makino quickly got to checking on Luffy, disinfecting and covering the scraps and bruises he got. She took extra care with the one on his head, gently bandaging it careful not to stir Luffy. when she was done she put him on a makeshift bed, made with chairs, and covered him with a blanket she also had on standby.

"You should hold back whenever you are with Luffy," Makino said with a soft smile going to the other side of the counter. "...how's he doing? he seems different from last time. Like he suddenly knows a lot overnight."

"I do seem that way; perhaps I should tell you but days ago Luffy had a nightmare." Garp looked at Makino skeptically "A nightmare? The only thing that could pull a nightmare from this boy is a traumatic experience." Makino nodded in agreement, after knowing and taking care of Luffy for so long she knows a lot.

"The last time Luffy had a nightmare was when a rabbit we were taking care of went and disappeared. No one knew what happened with the rabbit, so we all believed that it went back to its family. It took a while for Luffy to realize that." Makino reminisced.

"What was it about?" "...He said everybody precious to him was no longer there." Garp hummed as he absorbed the information.

"Well, it's time for me to go; I'll come back tomorrow and check on you guys before I go back to Marine HQ. See ya." "Have a safe night, Garp-san."

Garp stood from his seat and went out, taking a long glance at Luffy before stepping out of the bar. Makino, who finished with the dishes and witnessed everything, smiled. "Leave him alone..." A sleeping Luffy mumbled, alerting Makino, reminding her he was still in the room.

She went to the makeshift bed and kneeled in front of Luffy. 'I'm only now realizing that his skin is paler and his face,' she gently placed a hand on his head. 'He is warmer than usual as well. Is he sick or an after-effect of what happened with Garp-san? Although I didn't see most of it, it looked like Luffy pushed his body more than it could handle.'

A sad smile covered her face, couldn't, not wanting to imagine Luffy in any form of pain. "Let's get you to bed now," she said shaking those thoughts out of her head. She gently carried Luffy from the bed and put him on her back, making sure not to stir him awake.

She went on to Luffy's room closing the lights on the way. Opening the door she carefully traversed through the mess in the room of scattered clothes and curios, placing Luffy on his bed and covering him.

She bent down and placed a kiss on his forehead "Sweet dreams." Even in the darkness, you could see how Luffy's demeanor changed becoming more relaxed and happier.

Makino quietly went out of the room the same way she traversed, entering ' I'll need to make note of cleaning his room soon.'

。°。°。°。°。°。Next day。°。°。°。°。°

"You're gonna become a marine, you hear me? No grandson of mine is gonna be a pirate!" "No! I'm going to be a pirate like Shanks! I'm gonna be even cooler than Shank!" In the morning, when Garp came to see Makino and Luffy, Garp caught Luffy in the act of talking about becoming a pirate, immediately losing his cool.

"Now, now, calm down, you two. Garp, don't you have to be preparing to go back to Marine HQ? You leave in a few hours, right?" "I do, but don't worry about that. That damn Akagami, once I catch him..."

Makino sweat-dropped, not sure what to do. "You leave Shank alone, Ji-chan! I'm gonna become a pirate because I chose to!" Garp held his hand up in a tight fist you could see his blood pressure rising.

"Why you..!" "Excuse me, Vice Admiral Garp!" A marine came in and stood at attention. Garp, not liking the interruption, groans and drops Luffy.

"What is it?" "We're ready to set sail anytime now, sir!"
Finishing, Garp mentioned for the marines to leave the room.

"Looks like I gotta go. Makino, thank you for everything, and take this." Garp said, handing Makino a bag, "Luffy, stay away from that Akagami, you hear?"

As soon as he said that, he left, not staying a second longer to hear their responses. Makino opened the bag and found stacks of round, shiny, gold coins and a letter.

Luffy had left to roam the village for anything interesting, leaving Makino alone.

'Dear Makino,

By the time you read this, I'll probably be departing. I left you some Beri's in this bag as a token of appreciation, use them to treat both you and Luffy. Thank you for taking care of Luffy in my stead. Don't let that Akagami bastard near Luffy! He'll become a marine even if I have to beat it into him. Anyway, do whatever you want with the money and enjoy yourselves.

Regards, Monkey D. Garp.'

Makino smiled, giggling, "Oh, Garp-san, you worry too much."

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

. . . . ╰──╮Zoro's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"Roger said that there's Something on the shore waiting for me, but he never said where. If he wasn't a ghost, I would have cut him up by now." I grumbled, cursing Roger for the lack of information.

'I only got a few hours before I gotta go to the dojo and start training there. I should run around the whole shore, I just hope it's close by or I'll be late.' I began running on the shoreline, hoping the find the 'surprise' he had for me.

"Curses, he could have at least told me the direction."

。°。°。°。°。°。2 hours later 。°。°。°。°。°

"I've been running for a while, and now my body is starting to feel it." I stop and sit underneath the shade of a cliff/cave. 'I should have brought something to eat... maybe it wasn't a smart idea rushing out here without eating.'

*sigh* I looked around at the scenery. Large rocks at awkward positions, shells covering the floor with seaweed, the shimmering clear sea reflecting the cloudless sky.

I lift my hand to the sun "Just wait everybody, we're gonna travel on the same ship soon and we're all gonna complete our dreams. I'll make sure of it!

. . . . ╰──╮Normal pov╭──╯ . . . .

With the newfound motivation and energy, Zoro stood up and continued searching the shore. An hour later, Zoro saw something out of place.

'Is that coral? Maybe drifted wood? Whatever it is, it's sticking out like a sore thumb.' Zoro stared suspiciously and curiously at the object slowly approaching it.

Zoro walked till he stood in front of the objects. He froze stiff, quickly recognizing what they were and who they belonged to. They were his sword and a certain bag. He smirks as the shock leaves his body quickly.

"Heh. I know he said this would happen, but this soon? The Gods of fortune must be smiling upon us." He looks over the items, especially his past, now current sword, Wado Ichimonji, checking it over like he did many times for this and his other swords.

He even checked inside Ussop's bag and saw that everything there was the real deal. Lost in his world, he didn't notice the time passing by. 'Ack. I'd best get going now to the dojo. Don't wanna be late.'

Grabbing everything and wrapping Wado Ichimonji in a cloth, he quickly leaves the shoreside heading toward the direction presumably the dojo. 'I should make sure no one sees Wado Ichimonji... Especially the master, Kuina, and the old man. Who knows what they might do if they find it?'

Miraculously, Zoro found himself in front of the dojo and in time to hide his belongings and change clothes. He went inside and quickly looked for the locker rooms. A student, who recognized him from yesterday's match, offered to help him. Zoro, being in no position to say no, silently allowed it to happen.

After changing and hiding everything, he went to the main hall where everyone was waiting. There he saw most people from yesterday and Kuina, sitting in the front, staring at him as she had foreseen.

"Roronoa Zoro..."

。°。°。°。°。°。Flashback to yesterday。°。°。°。°。°

. . . . ╰──╮Shimotsuki Koushiro's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

The match ended in a win for Kuina, and everyone had left the room. I had asked Kuina to stay behind to talk, she looked like she knew who. "Why did you let him join? He lost, didn't he?" She asked semi-shouting.

"Kuina," I started not looking in her direction but where Roronoa left from "What do you think of that boy?"I think he's not what he seems to be. It was like he was holding back."

She answered truthfully, though I could tell she was frowning a bit, gripping the sword tightly. "It's true. He's not what he seems to be like he has more experience than his body lets on."

'And he might even be stronger than Kuina. I could feel a bit of his haki earlier, and it might just be the strongest I've ever seen from a boy his age.' I thought for a moment, then concluded.

"Kuina. I want you to look after him for a while and maybe try learning from him as well." " But-" "Kuina." I cut her off, staring at her. "I know you don't want anything to do with him, but trust me. If you can't as a master, then trust me as a father."

. . . . ╰──╮Kuina's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

I looked at Father in shock at what he was saying. He was waiting for what I would say with a look of no changing his mind written on his face. I relaxed a bit and sighed "I'll trust you. I'll do as you say and watch and learn from him."

He smiled softly, happy how things turned out. "Thank you. You may leave now if you wish. I no longer have a reason for keeping you here and I'm sure you have something to do." He said reminding me of the time.

I bow quickly and then make my way to the door and open it. "If you'll excuse me, have a good day." I shut the door behind me.

。°。°。°。°。°。Flashback over。°。°。°。°。°
. . . . ╰──╮Normal Pov╭──╯ . . . .

It was now 11 on the dot when classes started. The master came and stood in the front of the room, hushing all the noise. "Good morning, everyone. I hope you are all excited for today. I have planned something different for today's class."

Looking around the room you could see multiple reactions some were shocked, some curious, others happy or sad, and few neutral. "Not to worry, you can still do physical training when you're done with this."

Someone raised their hand then others followed after, all with the same question "Now, I know you are wondering what it will be doing but first, please get in groups of two.

Everybody quickly partnered up to avoid Kuina. 'I knew this would happen, everyone avoiding me because I'm "too strong" or "too serious"' Kuina thought rolling her eyes.

She looked at the crowd and saw many people trying to partner up with Zoro. He glared at them to back off, which effectively worked, sending the crowd away.

Zoro now having rid himself of people walked up to Kuina and asked " Wannabe my partner?" The room went silent as everyone stared at them; mostly at Zoro like he grew extra heads.

"HUH!?" Everyone in the room, including Kuina, shouted, "What? The rest are just too noisy and annoying, plus you're the strongest here, aren't you? I don't wanna waste my time with weaklings." Zoro said with a smirk, waiting for Kuina's answer. "Alright, Roronoa, I'll show you what the strongest can do."

*Clap* *clap*

"Now that everyone has a partner, we'll start. What I'm going you be teaching you this lesson is swords."

Master went on teaching about sword and their rankings; grade, skillful grade, great grade, and supreme grade, the back story, and the curses. This continued for an hour or more.

"Now, for the last thing, I want you to recognize either the sword, ranking, and if it's cursed or not. You'll only be seeing pictures, and there are no black swords in this."

He said to put up a photo for everyone to see. "First one:"

"Shodai Kitetsu"

"Correct, Kuina, next."

"Nidai Kitetsu"

"Correct Kuina, Zoro"

"Sandai Kitetsu"

"Correct, Zoro."

"Yubashiri"

"Correct, Zoro."

"Shigure"

"Correct, Kuina."

"Kashu"

"Correct Kuina"

"Sukesan and Kakusan"

"Correct, Zoro."

"Karakuri Sword"

"Correct R/n"

"Soto Muso"

"Correct, Zoro."

"Enma"

"Correct, Zoro."

"Ame no Habakiri"

"Correct, Zoro."

"Yamaoroshi"

"Correct, Kuina. Last one."

"Konpira"

"Correct, Zoro."

"You did marvelous you two," he said to Zoro and Kuina. "And congratulations to you R/n for getting one. You are dismissed for the rest of the day. You may continue training till it's time to leave.

"Yes, master!" Everybody, including the master, left the room, only leaving Zoro and Kuina. "How did you know those swords, Roronoa?"

Zoro stared at her debating whether he should tell her or not. "Let's just say I've seen them" "What do you mean you've seen them? Father said that most of them cannot be found in the East Blue so how could you have seen them?"

"Take that however you please, but I don't think it's worth any importance." Zoro said, leaving the room, waving "Bye, Kuina." he left. "Roronoa, wait!"

And so the rest of the days went on with Kuina and Zoro fighting, Zoro training, and Kuina learning from him. Everybody in the dojo had made it somewhat of a mission to avoid the two.

。°。°。°。°。°。Time skip to a certain day。°。°。°。°。°

" Match over! The winner is Kuina with 2000 wins and 0 losses." The match adviser said, raising his hand. Kuina let out a breath she was holding. "D-damn it!" Zoro swore, placing a hand on his forehead and using the other one to lift himself.

"You're still as weak as ever, Zoro! You're so pathetic. Especially for a boy." Zoro clenched his fists and teeth to fight back the urge to just up and do or say something he shouldn't.

'Today is the day. I gotta make sure it goes exactly like it did. Gotta endure... I never remember the comments being this provoking, must be because of that copycat person.'

"Hey! Zoro isn't weak!" "He's the strongest one of all the guys." You could hear the mumbling of other students watching in the background. "He beat up all the grown-ups!"

"But he's weaker than I. Even with two swords, a weakling is still a weakling." Kuina answered their comments with a smirk "You losers do good to sit quietly. Your howling makes you pitiful."

She finished going to the door and leaving, only looking back to close the door, and even so, her eyes were closed. The room quickly went silent with them staring at where she left.

Zoro got up and dusted himself. "You lost again, Zoro..." the master said, approaching him. "Even after you've grown so strong."

"Sensei are you giving her special training because she's your daughter !?" A student asked in suspicion. The other followed behind him and did the same. "No no, I do no such thing."

With that, the questions stopped, and the master continued, "Zoro indeed grows stronger. But Kuina has grown stronger as well." Zoro walked away from the crowd, a few noticing and calling his name

"I've got to wash my face." He told them and went outside to the well. "...soon tonight I'll make sure to save her! Then we can complete our promise together. I'll make sure things are different. Me and my crew."

"Tonight I'm gonna fight her again!" Zoro said, shouting with Kuina eavesdropping on him.

。°。°。°。°。°。With the master。°。°。°。°。°

"Just a mere year since he became a pupil, Zoro's improvement is nothing short of spectacular. He trains incomparably more than any of the others. So I suppose it's only natural, but... It seems he's still no match for Kuina," the man in front of the master said with a smile.

"Female swordsmen are faced with immense walls," the master said, making the man's smile turn into confusion. "As she is now, I cannot let her inherit the dojo."

Kuina, who was listening in, standing in front of the doors, opened them. "Father!" "Kuina!" the man said, startled. "It's not nice to eavesdrop, Kuina," the master said calmly.

"I will become the world's greatest swordsman! You'll see!" she said to her father ignoring the man. "Kuina. As a girl..." Master started turn towards her, "You can never be the world's strongest." he finished staring at her.

To say Kuina was shocked is a soft term. She was devastated. Her only family member saying she can't do it, she could never... She swiftly left the form without saying anything.

。°。°。°。°。°。Outside the dojo。°。°。°。°。°
. . . . ╰──╮Zoro's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

I was running to the dojo with the two swords the old man had made for me. Halfway there, I saw Kuina "Zoro!" She said, surprised. "What're you doing out here?"

"That's my line! What are you doing here at this hour?" She asked me, her voice muffled by her handkerchief. 'Her eyes... their red and puffy, was she crying!?'

I walked closer, deciding to ignore it for now. "I'm here to challenge you to your 2001st fight! I plan to make this my last fight with you," I said, making one of the swords stand straight.

"I'm going to end this! Fight me with a real sword! You have a real one, don't you?" I finished shoving the sword that was standing in front. Kuina looked at me, shocked, but quickly recovered.

"Against me? Sure," she said with a smirk, confident in her abilities. We went to the storehouse where the sword, her sword, Wado ichimonji, was kept. Soon, we went to a plain field of grass and got into position.

'Just like last time... I lose, then we make the promise. Once that's done, I'll make sure to be by her side till tomorrow. I just have to make sure she doesn't die the way she did. I just have to make her avoid the stairs, or I at least have to be there to save her. You won't die a second time, Kuina!'

Once the leaves blew by, I ran towards Kuina, preparing to strike. She saw this and swung her sword up intending to slice me down but I block it with my left and quickly attempted to counter with my right, she ducked in time to only cut strands of hair.

She recovers and attacks from my right but I block it. We were both pushed back a good distance from each other. In sync, we both rush towards the other releasing a furry of attacks to each other.

"Two real swords are heavy, huh? It seems you still lack strength." Kuina said. "S-shut up!" 'Even after all that training, my body is taking a while to adapt... I swear.'

I said and thought pissed off that I didn't realize Kuina was running at me at full speed, disarming me and knocking me down thrusting the sword beside my head into the ground on top of my body.

"my 2001st win," she said smiling though looking sad. She got off of me and wiped her sweat. "Damn it... This sucks." I said covering my face. 'I know I have to let it happen but how it feels is pathetic.'

"I'm the one who should be crying out of frustration." Kuina said, "Eh?" 'I know.' I stopped and looked at her. "You see, when girls grow up, they get weaker than men... Even you'll catch up to me soon... You're always saying you're going to be the world's best swordsman. My father told me that a girl can never be that." She said, looking up and hiding her face.

"I know... I know that! But... But it's frustrating! You're lucky, Zoro. You're a boy." I stand up as she continues.

"I wanted to be the world's greatest swordsman, too! My breasts have even started to grow out now." She said that, touching them, and I looked away, blushing.

'If Nami were here, she'd hit me.' I couldn't help but think. "If only.. If only I had been born as a man." I looked at her and clenched my teeth.

"Don't be winning like that after you beat me! That's not fair! You're my goal!" "Zoro-" "boy this, girl that. Are you gonna say that stuff when I beat you someday? You act like none of it is skill! You're insulting all the hard training I've been doing! So don't say that stuff!"

Kuina stared at me speechless eyes still watery. I walked up to her and looked her in her eyes "Promise me! Someday, one of us will be the world's greatest swordsman. We'll compete to see who gets there!" I finish raising my hand.

"you dummy, you're so weak..." she shook my hand sealing the deal "It's a promise!"

。°。°。°。°。°Tomorrow afternoon。°。°。°。°。

"Hey, Kuina!" I stopped her before entering the storehouse. "What is it, Zoro? Want to fight?" "No. Are you going to maintain your sword?"

"Yes... How'd you know? I didn't tell anybody that." I averted my eyes from her to her sword in hand, she followed too, getting her answer. "I see."

"Can I come too? After our fight last night, they need to be taken care of." I gestured the the swords in their strap. She reluctantly thought about it and agreed. We both entered the storehouse and she quickly got to removing the necessary stuff needed.

"The sharpening stone is upstairs, you can start while I get it," she said, already heading to the stairs. Now's my chance! If she died the way that I was told, then I'll catch her and take the impact myself, covering myself with armament haki if I have to.'

Just as she reached the last fourth stair the floorboard suddenly broke outwards making Kuina fall backward. In the shock of it all she could do was close her eyes and brace for impact.

Zoro did just as planned in his head, successfully saving Kuina and minimizing the damage. "Are you ok?" "Y-yeah, I'm good. Thank you for saving me."

"Welcome. You might wanna postpone the maintenance till you get that fixed." I said trying to make the atmosphere lighter "You're right. I guess we should leave. I'll tell Father about it while you can go home."

We both left the storehouse, leaving everything as is. We went our separate ways, but not after making sure Kuina was fine. 'I saved Kuina! Now I just have to meet up with Luffy and Sanji! Things are looking better, no... They will be better, just wait for us, world!'

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy -  Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

"No! I'm gonna show you how strong I am." Luffy shouted from the head of the dragon on Shank's ship, holding a knife in one hand. A chorus of laughs went through the deck as the crew attempted to unload. 

The keyword being attempted, they all crowded the deck and watched Luffy. "Now, anchor, put down the knife and come down," Shank said, now worried. "Yeah, come on. What if you fall?" "No problem, I can just swim!" Everybody stared at him in shock, now realizing that his serious

Luffy, not having it anymore, decided to act, "Fine, if you don't believe me, then I'll show you! Watch!" He lifts the knife just below his left eye and stabs himself. 

。°。°。°。°。°Time skip, at Makino's bar。°。°。°。°。°。

"That didn't hurt at all," Luffy, with a bandage over his cut, said, smiling, tears threatening to fall out. Shanks, who was behind Luffy, quickly turned with an angry expression. "That's a lie! Don't do such a stupid thing!" Luffy turned around to face Shanks.

"I'm not scared of getting hurt!" Shanks sighed; having no choice but to believe him, he sat down on a stool next to him. "I'm gonna be a pirate! I can't be afraid!" Shanks now smiled at Luffy's claim. "Hahaha, I'd like to see you try."

"Luffy," Yassop, who was near them, started, "Just because you're a good swimmer doesn't mean you'd make a good pirate." "I'm a good fighter. My punches are like pistols." Luffy argued with a smile. "Oh really?" Shanks said, not bothering to look at Luffy with a mouthful of food."

"What's that supposed to mean?!" Luffy shouted, now angry at Shanks again. "Here, have some juice," He said, pushing a glass to Luffy. "Oh, Thanks." Seeing the glass, he calmed down and finished all of it.

"BWAHAHAHA! What kinda pirate drinks juice?!" Luffy, realizing what had happened, became angry again. "Shanks! You cheater! I can drink alcohol too, you know!"

Shanks, seeing Luffy reaching out for the bottle Makino just placed, quickly stopped him; one hand on his head immobilizing him, and the other taking the bottle even further from his reach.

"Now, now, anchor, you can't drink, and that final." Mountain bandits barged in as if the world didn't want another fight between the two.

Everyone went silent and watched as the bandits made their way to the counter. "We'd like ten barrels of alcohol, pretty lady." Makino politely smiled, though slightly forced.

"I'm sorry, we just ran out of alcohol." "Huh?! That's strange, then you're saying all these pirates have water?" Makino quickly tried to explain herself.

"No! You see, they had the last in stock-" "Here, pal. You can have this bottle, it's unopened." Shanks said handing the alcohol out for him.

Luffy stayed silent. Silently saying he won't make a scene like last time. He won't make such hurtful and untrue claims. This time, he knew and understood why Shanks and his crew did what they did, even if his crew didn't exactly laugh, he still knew.

The bandit swung his hand, shattering the bottle and splashing all over Shanks as the glass pieces fell to the ground. He pulled out his sword and swung at Shanks. Everyone stared, eyes saying different yet the same things. "Let's go."

Soon, the bandits left the bar, and Makino quickly rushed to the other side to clean the mess. Everybody started laughing, throwing complimentary insults(?) his way. Luffy, who was angry but silent, started eating out of frustration. 

Even if he understood it still didn't change the way he felt the first time. "Eating out of frustration, Luffy?" "No!" Shank stood up, placing the hat perfectly on his head. "Wait, what are you eating?!" As soon as he said that, Luffy swallowed the last part of the fruit.

"That box! Did you eat what was in that box?!" Luffy, surprised at Shanks's expression, took a while to understand 'Oh yeah, I didn't tell him about me eating the devil fruit or having its powers.' "Yeah." I nod

"Spit it out! Right now! Every last bit!" he shouted, shaking him upside down by his legs. "W-what're you doing, Shanks?-" Luffy's face collided with the ground, and his feet stretched and soon went back to normal with a red mark on his face.

"shishishishi" "What you just ate was the gomu gomu no mi. The fruit is also called a devil fruit. After eating it, you become a rubber man, and you won't ever be able to swim." Makino covered her mouth, hearing all this; the rest of the crew with similar expressions.

"shishishishi" All Luffy could do was laugh which made Shanks even more annoyed " You dumbass!!"

(A/n: this part was written using both the older and newer versions of how Luffy got his scar and ate his devil fruit, so they may overlap.)

. . . . ╰──╮Luffy Pov╭──╯ . . . .

After all that, the crew continued partying, and I went out to the forest, promising to be back for dinner. 'I can go test out my powers. I hope Zoro and Sanji are doing well as well... I miss Sanji's cooking...'

I went to the part of the forest where I'd trained with the monkeys and baboon-like creatures. In the forest, the animals didn't waste any time and stood before me, prepared to fight. "Wait! As much as I'd like to test out my power, I need you guys to do something for me."

Letting out an aura that quickly made the animals stop in their attempt to revolt. It was like an understanding amongst each other that I could control the mightiest and most ferocious of sea kings.

"Good, now that you understand, I need you to find this bandit for me and make sure he doesn't step into Fuusha village again." I raised a wanted poster of Higuma and his buddies, which I took before I left. "Do whatever you want with him; I don't mind."

{We understand, master.} They quickly bowed the went back into the trees and forest. "Aww, I never got the chance to ask for their help in training... Oh well, I'll make due." I went on and made makeshift dummies.

When I was done placing them around, I moved away from them. "Okay! Gomu Gomu no... Pistol!" I shot my arm straight at the target, but before it reached it stopped and recoiled back.

"Eh...? Let's try again," I shot my arm again, but at the target next to the first, the same thing happened. 'Can I not stretch as far as I used to? Is it because I'm a child again?'

I stare at my hands for a moment, then stretch my fingers only going a half-quarter actually- than what they would.

I spent an hour or more trying out all my techniques without gears and haki. Even though my body had all its experience, I didn't wanna take the risk yet.

"What do I do? I don't know if anything is wrong or not..."  I started to think a lot, and the aftermath of training didn't help.

I was broken out of the trans by a fruit being placed in front of me. "Huh?" I take the fruit and look up to see a few animals with fruit.

"What're you guys doing?" They come closer, placing down the fruit and sitting. {We saw your training and brought you this to eat} a deer said.

{We couldn't help it, so we brought fruits we could find. It also seemed like some things were on your mind.} 'An owl... Must be an old man.'

I took a fruit and bit into it as I told the animals the issue. They all sat in silence, minus the chewing of fruits, to think about what I said.

{Why don't you try to fight us?/What if it's because you never had these powers before?/Maybe it is a limit not to destroy stuff!}

At the same time, the animals gave their thoughts and solutions. Though I was grateful, it was just too much for me; everything was spinning.

The next thing that happened was that I passed out. 

. . . . ╰──╮Normal pov╭──╯ . . . .

{Sir!} A wolf behind caught Luffy with its tail and gently placed him down. After a quick check, they all calmed down, finding out he had passed out. {He may be strong and a king, but maybe he lacks up there.} A bird said with the rest agreeing.

{Whatever the case, let's take him to the edge of the forest and wake him. It's almost nighttime; he should go back home.} One of the monkeys that he'd trained with carried Luffy and did as said.

{master/ sir, wake up, you have to go home} They kept calling out his name and shaking him for a few minutes till {If this keeps up, he'll be late for dinner} "FOOD!? WHERE?!"

He quickly sat up, looking around. "Aww no meat.." {Master, you're awake, good. Now you can go back home. "Huh, but why??" {'C-cu-cute'} was what everyone thought as he tilted his head slightly, eyes large and filled with pure curiosity and innocence.

{*Ahem* didn't you say you have to go back before dinner to your family?} the monkey pointed out, placing Luffy on the ground. "Ah! Your right! Bye, everyone, see you soon!"  he said, running home, waving at them and the animals, doing the same.

After five minutes of running, he reached the bar and took a moment to catch his breath before going in. "Makino, I'm back like promised," Luffy said, swinging the door open to the bar that now had fewer people than before, either left or passed out on the floor.

The only ones awake were Shanks, Yassop, and Benn, with Makino behind the counter, placing a plate of food in front of an empty chair. "Sit. You're just in time," she said with a warm smile. Luffy gave one as well, just as bright with his giggles."

"So, anchor, how does it feel being an actual anchor?" Shanks asked as Luffy sat down and started inhaling his food. "No problem! I'll be a pirate who doesn't fall into the sea. More, please, Makino!" he quickly responded, then placed his plate on the upper counter for more.

"hehe, here you go. Be sure not to choke, okay?" She placed a glass of water next to him as he asked for his third serving, and the other three just finishing their first. "Wow, Luffy you really can eat. Not even my son would eat that much."

Yassop whistled in fascination as Luffy was now on his 7th plate and Makino smiled as she placed more food not seeming annoyed. "Maybe it's his devil fruit; I heard that devil fruit users eat more than normal people."

Benn reasoned lighting a cigarette "Yeah but it's like he's eating for five different people." "No matter just leave anchor be, if he's got a large appetite like this all the time then maybe he can be a pirate." 

"That's right! I'll become the best pirate there is! Makino add my meal to my treasure tab." Makino taking his plate giggled at his antics "Sure Luffy" "Wha- Makino you don't have to put up with a treasure tab! he'll probably spend it all on meat before bringing it to you!"

"I don't mind waiting. I know Luffy can and will do it. Isn't that right Luffy?" "Shishishishi Yeah! count on me!" Shanks said with fake tears on his face feeling betrayed. making everyone else laugh, "C'mon captain you can't act like a big baby." 

Teasing shanks went on for a while till Benn felt his captain had had enough. "Now let's leave it at that, didn't we have something to tell Luffy?" Stopping, the two calmed down and broke into a warm smile. "We're going to Syrup Village in two days." 

Yassop said Not waiting a second. "We're going to see my wife and son, and as said earlier, we'll go wherever you want afterwards." "Really?! I'll finally be able to see Ussop?" "Yup."  Luffy grabbed the neglected glass of water near him and drank it in one go

'Ussop... I can finally apologize for everything. This time we'll go places we didn't like Elbaf...' *Clap* *Clap* Makino clapped her hands, snapping Luffy out of his trance and drawing everyone's attention.

"How about we call it a night? It's pretty late, and you guys will have your work cut out for you." Benn lit out his cigarette, agreed with Yassop, and Shanks followed suit. They went and carried all the passed-out crewmates and woke a few to help.

They left the bar with a chorus of Bye, see ya, and night then it went silent again. "let's go Shower and sleep." Makino said already carrying Luffy and heading upstairs. "Yeah."

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy -  Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

"Alright, men! Get ready to sail out!" "Ay,e Captain!" "Luffy, you got everything?" Smiling brightly, Luffy confirmed he had everything prepared -unlike his usual self- while climbing aboard and going straight to the figurehead, which was a dragon, or a snake, and sitting on it.

You could hear the sounds of the ropes and sails being freed and the anchor being raised, alongside the splashing of water as the ship started to move. The tapping of shoes followed as each shipmate put everything together.

Soon, the island went out of view, and Shanks went to the ravennette sitting on the figurehead of the Red Force. "What plans did you make for after we go to Syrup Island (village)?" He leaned on the railing left of the figurehead, staring at the vast sea before him.

"We're going to the baratie, a sea restaurant. A very precious nakama works there, and we're gonna meet another one, possibly with his friend. We can even bring Ussop and his mother along."

"Wow, anchor, I'm impressed. I never thought you out of everyone would have had a plan like this, not to mention how perfect it sounds." Shanks complimented him, and Luffy just turned to him and gave him a smirk.

"Shishishi! It gets better cause the baratie is close to the grand line." Shanks was speechless at what Luffy said stopped supporting his head. "Once you're done there, you can go straight to your adventure." Now standing straight his his arms still floating by his sides, he went into a blank state thinking about what he said.

'Did Anchor plan this so that we could go to the grand line after doing what he wanted? Is he helping us in his way?'

After the realization wore off, he smiled softly and ruffled Luffy's hair, avoiding the hat. "Thanks, Luffy." With that, he left, leaving Luffy alone. 

"No... Thank you, Shanks." Luffy whispered with a soft expression.

。°。°。°。°。°With shanks。°。°。°。°。°。 

"Wait... how is he gonna get back to Foosha village?"

"Ya just realizing that now, Capt?" Benn said with crossed arms and a disappointed face, shaking his head. The smoke from the cigarette followed suit.

Shanks just laughed with his arms folded behind his head. "Well, whatever the case, I know Luffy will do it somehow. That's just who and how he is."

And all Benn could do was sigh.

。°。°。°。°。°。Flashback, Yesterday。°。°。°。°。°

. . . . ╰──╮Luffy's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"Where am I? Makino and I just finished showering and- oh. I must have passed out." Looking around, I could only see a calming, soft blue everywhere. "Hello? Is anybody there?"

Suddenly, two doors diagonally opposite appeared and slowly opened. From the right door, Zoro entered the space and was not shocked. "Did I get lost?" Yup, that's him alright.

"Zoro!" I wrapped my arms around him, and he started sweating. "Wait, Luffy no- Luffy don't!-" I launched myself on him, laughing and smiling. He fell back, and I was now on top of him.

"Why you Luffy- One of these days I'll cut you in half," Zoro growled at me, threatening to kill me, "shishishi my bad." I wasn't sorry, and he knew that, but I shut that out and focused on the other door, which was slowly opening. I was still not loosening my hug on Zoro.

Sanji came in with a bit more caution than Zoro, looking around till his eyes locked on us. "Sanji!" We both shouted as he walked to us without his usual cigarette between his lips and a smile.

"Hey, you guys. It's about time." I wrapped one arm around him and brought him to join the hug, and for a few moments, we stayed like that in silence. Enjoying the proximity and warmth from each other.

"Not to be the wet blanket, but we should stop now. There's something we have to do, remember?" Zoro questioned, tapping both our backs.

Slowly and slightly reluctant, I break the hug, and we stand up. 'It's been a while since I've seen them, I got carried away.' "In three, two, one-"

"1 hat, 2 legs, 3 swords."

"Shishishi. I missed you guys." I smiled even brighter than possible. The others were smiling just as brightly. "Me too/same here."

"What a touching reunion."

"..." we all went silent as our smiles were slowly replaced with a hesitant face.

"..." Slowly, our eyes shift to each other, holding for a second, then to the voice.

"..." our faces paled, and sweat stuck on our skin as we broke into a nervous smile.

"Hehehehe" Roger, who was in a crouching position, was smiling like nothing was wrong, which, from his view, nothing was.

"We're dead?"

"Yup, we're dead."

"Wah, we're dead!"

"You're not dead yet."

". . ."

We had a staring contest lasting what seemed an eternity, along with Rogers's unfaltering smile.

.

.

.

.

"What have you guys been up to?" Sanji asked, now ignoring Roger and putting an arm in his breast pocket, looking for his cigarettes and lighter.

"Oh, me me me! I saved Shanks from losing his arm! I'm also going to see Ussop!" I quickly answered giddily not staying seated. I mean how could I? I'm just ready to burst with all these emotions.

"I managed to save Kuina and find myself some goods," Zoro said with a proud smile that could be mistaken for a smirk. "What about you, cook?"

"Nothing interesting apart from telling my dad the truth. To be honest, all the interesting things in my life  happened after I met you guys."

That touched a deep spot in my heart, and it looked the same for Zoro. All the energy I had disappeared and was replaced with a warm feeling. In the background, you could hear the awws of Roger.

"Sanji..."  I tackled him into a hug and started crying, shocking everyone. "W-whats wrong?" He asked, unsure of what to do. "I'm *hic* fine"

Though I couldn't see it, Zoro smiled/smirked softly along with Roger. Sanji sighed, hugging me back and rubbing soothing circles on my back.

Moments passed, and I stopped crying, loosening my hold on Sanji. "You good?" "Mhm, sorry I acted like that..." "Don't worry about it, captain." He lights a cigarette and takes a drag on it.

(A/n. Fun fact: Sanji started smoking from a young age to prove to Zeff he's a man.)

"Back to topic, no? What is this place exactly?" Zoro asked, looking at Roger. "Don't look at me like that! I don't know myself. It must be the fact that your brains are linked with each other or something."

"So you're saying we're having some sort of shared dream?" Sanji questioned putting out the finished cigarette. Where is he getting them? He should have run out a long time ago.

"I guess. You guys are the first people to go back in time, and more miraculously, with your memories and strength intact. I only knew that I'd come back as well, but still as a ghost that only you guys can see. This must be one of the 'powers' -if we can call it that-  that neither of us knows."

We all stayed still, letting it sink in. Even though this is a good thing, who knows what else might happen? "Ah! I already experienced something of the sort. Tho we did talk about it in passing in the past."

Zoro then proceeded to tell us about his encounter with Usopp's stuff and his sword. Roger and Sanji are pitching in their parts.

From there, we started talking about how each second chance has been;  Sanji telling His father about his bloodline and family, Zoro saving Kuina and getting answers, and me saving Shanks and finally telling them how I ate my devil fruit.

We were so deep into it that we didn't realize that the place was changing the atmosphere. The empty, plain blue area -the doors had disappeared after Zoro and Sanji walked through them- changed into a flowery field with an area resembling a fenced patio with three openings. A table with chairs we were sitting on was in the middle, and overflowing vines were tangling everything together. There is also a grandfather clock and a phonograph.

On the table was an array of treats, pastries, and desserts with an aromatic tea in front of us. And without thinking, we ate the food and drank the tea like second nature.

Sanji noticed this minutes after we finished talking, "Guys, look, the scenery changes without noticing."

"What are you talking about, cook? There's no way-..." "What were you saying, Marimo? Wanna say that again?"

"Sugoiiii!!! The food tastes delicious, I don't wanna leave." Sanji nodded in agreement. "It looks like the space can change into anything we want."

Everyone hums, making a mental note. "The time... I think it is time for you to wake up." Roger gazed at the clock reading 7:43. Which was most probably tomorrow or rather today's morning.

"You're right. Luffy, Sanji, whenever we're asleep, let's come here. Roger, I'm not so sure about you, but you continue what you're doing?" Roger looked devastated with a pout and crocodile tears on his face, but he gave a silent nod.

"Shishishi. I'll see you guys soon, K? Make sure to cook a big meal for a party, Sanji." He smirked and put out his cigarette. "You got it, captain. Any suggestions?

" MEAT/BOOZE."

"Of course, it always has the same answer."

And with that, we left the dream space, waking up where we all left.

。°。°。°。°。°。Present 。°。°。°。°。°

. . . . ╰──╮Normal Pov╭──╯ . . . .

Time passed, and soon the island was coming into view. Luffy took in a good view of the island, reminiscing. 'Ussop... Maybe I should make a grave for the old Ussop... And everybody.'

A few of the crew were on deck, Shanks and Yassop included, whilst the others were in position to dock. *Thud* Luffy collapsed on the floor with no one hearing it, much to his luck. It was something they were used to, not the collapsing, but the thud he produced when landing.

Ussop died

The more he thought and the closer we got to the island, the more Luffy's breath became shallow and sharp, suddenly not having enough air in his lungs. As if someone made a hole through his respiratory system that's not supposed to be.

Nami died

He clutched his head and the railing, trying to stabilize, not wanting to alert anyone. His heartbeat increased to faster speeds than in gear 2, and his eyes became clouded with tears and the memories of everyone dying. A pounding in his head followed suit, only adding to the pain.

Chopper died

Wobbling on his feet, he tried to use the last remaining consciousness and go to his room, which, funnily was Shank's room. His hand left the railing and clutched onto his chest above his heart with a death grip in an attempt to stop it.

One step... Two steps... Three steps... Fou- *Thud*

"Luffy? What are you doing on the ground?" No response. Luffy was now wheezing, trying to get any breath he could. His grip tightened, drawing blood and leaving scratch marks on his skin and holes through his shirt. Benn, who caught and asked Luffy, could see a sheet of sweat from the ravennnette who happened to be lying face flat in front of the stairs where he came from.

Robin died

"Luffy, are you okay?" He asked more seriously, going to his side. Luffy rose to his knees, but his face was still on the ground, out of view of Benn, but raised enough to hear his desperate breathing. "I-I-I'm- ...fine?" He answers, no, questions between gasping more for his reassurance than for Benn's.

Franky too

The whole world is blurry as he lifts his head. Benn took a good look at Luffy and Panicked. "Somebody get a doctor!" He shouted, alerting everyone who heard with a handful of spring into action, and the rest to Luffy.

Brook

His chest hurts. Every wheeze of oxygen was like a stab to his old wound, or at least where they were. He felt the emotions envelop him when his crew was forcefully split up, and when he went on a near-death journey to Marineford. Hongo was now beside Benn with his supplies, calling out to everyone to give space.

Jimbei

Ah

"What's going on?! What is it!?" A chorus of questions is directed to Benn as the rumbling of footsteps vibrates throughout the ship, making Luffy more tense. Making him remember that day, with an even worse atmosphere on concrete. The day-

"Ace"

The concrete was cold and rough then. Splinters of wood breached the skin without invitation, but that didn't matter. A constant ringing and the beating of hearts were all that many could hear if they hadn't died yet. It was cold when Kuzan froze the battlefield; everyone felt that. But when it soon got too hot-

!!! 

"Luffy, what's going on? Who's that? "

"...my brother... Where's my brother!?"

"Wha-!"

"GIVE ME BACK MY BROTHER!!!!"

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy -  Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

"Doctor, how are they?" "They're fine, just entered a short comatose state due to the shock. In a few more days, they'll return to normal levels." I nod as the doctor clears his supplies

"And Banchina? How is she faring?  Luffy said her disease couldn't be cured. Is that true?" Shanks asks, looking out the window to see Yassop and Ussop catching up; a grim atmosphere surrounds them.

"For the island doctors and probably most East Blue doctors, yes, Luffy's right. She was somehow caught with 'South blue Emperor disease'. A sickness you'd never think about finding here. It'll require traversing the grand line, calm belt, and possibly even the red line."

"That explains it." Shanks smiled as he saw Yassop and Ussop hugging. The grim atmosphere was gone, and adventure stories filled the air.

The doctor left the room silently, with the only indication being the click of the door. 

。°。°。°。°。°。with Yassop and Ussop。°。°。°。°。°

"Tell me about the kid!" Ussop shouted (more like demanded), making his father smirk, "Oh? You don't wanna hear about my adventures?"

"Uh, well, I'm just worried for a small person like him. As a great warrior of the sea, I must protect people like him!" 'Not to mention he's my age and a potential friend.' 

Yassop looked at his son, caught off guard by his response. "I see... Let's go see him then." The two stood up and went to the house, which was less than a minute's walk. The house was the perfect place for the pirate as it was the only one on top of the hill, and most people steered clear, except the doctor.

The house had three rooms, each with a bathroom, a kitchen connected to the living room, and a small table in the middle. It was decorated with trinkets that both Ussop and Yassop found. In the kitchen are Banchina and Roux.

"Mom! What are you doing? It would be best if you were resting!" he said, concerned, running to his mother's side, Yassop not far back. Banchina smiled softly at their concern. "I'm cooking. The doc gave me the go-ahead, and Roux here offered to stay in case something happens. Plus, it's not every day I get to cook for you two, let alone just the act of cooking.

-The two looked like they wanted to say something, but Banchina quickly continued- I've been cooped up with my disease, I can't remember the last time I went out." She finished as they calmed down; Roux, who was in the room, said nothing.

"Just take it easy, you were just cured." Roux, now deciding to speak, agreed with them. "Okay, okay, after I finish here. Dinner is almost ready." They let it go, knowing that they couldn't persuade her further.

The father and son look at each other, having a silent conversation with their eyes. They took a seat on the chair and quietly sat waiting. The next few minutes were spent with small talk and the sound of food.

"Done. I hope you enjoy." Banchina announced as she placed a plate with food on the table in front of each chair and the rest in the middle. "Well then, I've gone to lie down now." All eyes turned to her as she stood by the door 

"You're not going to eat?"Yassop asked, and she shook her head no. "Just like I promised, once I finish cooking, I'll lie down. Goodnight." And with that, she left, confusing the three. 

"...well -Ussop turns his head to his food with closed eyes- Thank you for the meal!" he opened his eyes as his hand went to the spoon beside his plate and started eating; the other two joined him quickly finishing and going for seconds.

More quickly than expected, the food became less and less; Ussop thought it was the two pirates justifying it as pirates eat a lot, the two, on the other hand, thought it was suspicious. It's barely been five minutes, and we're with a quarter of the food?

*Burp*

Huh? Everyone swiftly *brutally* turned their heads to the sound, only to find...

"LUFFY!?"

"WAIT THAT'S LUFFY!? WHAT'S HE DOING HERE!?"

"HAVE YOU GUYS SEEN LUFFY? HE'S GONE MISSING!?"

"ANCHOR- WHERE AR-"

Huh? Everyone, plus the two new people, shared eye contact, sweat building on the three as they realised the same thing. "L-Luffy is th-there," shakingly, the point at the fourth seat where the supposedly empty chair, the two's eyes following closely.

There, they saw a sleeping Luffy stuffing himself full of the remaining dishes on the table. He still had the snort bubble from his nose, and his stomach grew by how much he had and still is eating.

*cricket noises*

Everyone was frozen stiff with a shadow over their eyes; the only way to describe it was disbelief, shock, and something else that varied with the five.

Shanks was the first to move, going to the door. He went out shut the door then opened it again. he did this more times and no one questioned him heck they were probably going to do something similar and could you blame them?

The Luffy they're seeing- heck, has the Luffy they've had this different, and like this? This was the first they've seen of this, excluding Ussop. He's never seen anything or a person like this, or eating and sleeping at the same time-

Finally, having spent much time pondering, Benn went to Luffy, who had stopped eating and tried to wake him up. "Luffy! What are you doing here?" Ussop watched as they tried to wake him up and saw this as an opportunity.

"H-heh, maybe he couldn't stand being in the presence of a great warrior of the sea as he fell asleep eating. Don't worry! He'll wake up soon; this happens all the time, it's hard to tell if it's a curse in disguise," he said with his usual telling-a-lie tale face. 

Luffy started waking up, shocking everyone in the room. 'Did my/his lie work? Did he wake 'cause of what I/he said?' was what everyone thought, but didn't dwell on it much, bringing the focus back to Luffy.

"Huh? Where am I?" He blinked, adjusting to the light, then looked around at the worried and shocked faces. "What's up with you guys? Did something happen?  Are you hungry?" "Luffy- you've been asleep for days; ever since we saw the island," Shanks said, voicing everyone's (a bit of Ussop's) concern.

Luffy remained silent as memories came back to him, "Oh, sorry for worrying you guys, but I'm okay now shishishishi." Although they were concerned, excluding Ussop again, they let it go and wanted to change the topic.

"I'm going now, the food is finished. I might as well tell everyone else," Roux said quickly, taking his leave. "How are you holding up, Luffy? You ate while sleeping; is that even possible?" Yassop asks, dispersing the tension.

"shishishishi. I can! I've done it before!" 'The crew said I did it back in Dressrosa.' No one spoke, not sure what to say. 'That's not okay!' is what they all spoke in their heads.

"Well... I'm sure you have questions, but first, Luffy, this happened after your panic attack..." Benn summarised all that happened; docking on the island, helping Banchina, everything that happened during the days Luffy was unconscious.

"That's all. I suggest you rest a bit more. It's night anyway, so let's save conversations for tomorrow." Benn said, unfolding his hands, ready to drag Shanks out and probably Yassop.

They all agreed as they were getting tired themselves. Ussop raised his hands, gaining attention. "Before we go, I wanna ask a question, and we may know or not the answer. Luffy, how did you get here? And you didn't make a noise like you were a ghost. Wait- don't tell me you're one!!"

"sleepwalking."

"sleepwalking. I smelled the food in my sleep and came here." It wasn't exactly the truth, and it wasn't exactly a lie, but it was good enough since even he doesn't know how it works.

Ussop nodded, folding his hands and mustering his usual smug, know-it-all face. "Just as I thought." They all laughed at that while each moved to their resting quarters. Benn and Shanks return to the ship while Yassop goes to his old room, leaving Ussop and Luffy.

"Follow me. You and I share a room." Doing as instructed, they quickly reached Ussop's room and closed the door behind them. The room had a bunkbed(or a bed and hammock above it), a closet, and a corner dedicated to his gadgets. 

"You can choose whichever bed you want; you've been sleeping in the bottom one all this time," Ussop said with a matter-of-fact *yawn* "Okay..." Luffy moved forward and stretched his arm, grabbing onto the upper bed with one hand and Usopp with the other.

Before our poor victim got a word, Luffy launched into the upper bed, covering him and Usopp. "Night." 'Don't just fall asleep!' sighing, he got comfortable, losing the energy to be shocked or angry, and deciding to leave it for tomorrow if he remembered.

。°。°。°。°。° The Next Day。°。°。°。°。°

Banchina had entered her son's room during the afternoon, tasked with telling them the plans Shanks's crew had made as well as helping them start their day. Entering, she saw a sight that warmed her heart.

There on the upper bed lay Luffy and Usopp, cuddling. Ussop was mumbling some lines from his dreams while Luffy was drooling. She was internally squealing and silently leaving the room. 

'That was so cute! Seeing Ussop with somebody his age makes me happy. I hope they become friends... maybe I should take a photo- but where can I get a camera...?'

*Thud*

"Woah, careful there." "Huh? Sorry, Shanks, I must have been lost in thoughts, I didn't realize where I was going." Shanks secured her steadily on her feet, gave her space, then asked, "So what's going on in your mind?"

"Ah, that's right! Do you have a camera? You see..." The mother whispered what she saw and told Shanks what she was thinking. Once she finished talking, he didn't even wait for a second and told her, "Give me two minutes," and ran out of the house in the direction of the ship with a smile.

Banchina remained dazed for a bit, then came back with a smile, knowing Shanks wanted to see that scene. Luckily, they were in the sitting room, so she sat in the closet chair and waited.

(a/n: I'll be using the word camera because I'm not sure they are the same as a den den mushi or transponder snail, but it's still a snail as shown.)

. . . . ╰──╮Shanks Pov╭──╯ . . . .

I was rummaging through my stuff on the ship until I found it. "Thank goodness. Good call me looting our previous enemies, who knew this would be useful." I said, holding the camera up and inspecting it.

"And you're still in good condition. Perfect." I quickly stood up and started to make my way back to the house. I passed Benn by the docks, and I could tell he was wondering what I was doing.

"Sorry. No time. Later!" I answered and left, not stopping for a second. I finally reached the house and carefully opened the door. "You're back, and in 2 minutes like you said," Banchina said in shock.

"Yeah," I stand straight holding the camera and grinning, "I got a camera, so let's go." Banchina shared the same energy standing up with Shanks and quickly and silently went to Ussop's room.

Opening the door, we silently entered and closed the door. Seeing them, I was awed at the scene; Luffy's arm wrapped around Usopp multiple times, using it as a pillow. Luffy was drooling, mumbling about meat and the sorts.

Ussop had one arm out of Luffy's wrap while the other was underneath Luffy's head, using each other's hands as pillows.  Ussop had wrinkles on his face, looking distressed, probably feeling pressure from Luffy cuddling.

*click* *click* *click*

We took turns taking photos, silently agreeing we'd print them when we left the door. After some time, Ussop seemed to stir awake, seeming to have had enough of Luffy's cuddling. We paused and stopped taking photos, letting him come to.

Banchina reacted first and started petting his head while I took this as my cue to leave. Closing the door I could hear the slight mumbling of them talking and giggling. I went outside the house feeling best to enjoy the morning sun.

"Nice view, huh?" "Yeah. You can see the sea, feel the wind and sun, and most of all, no one to come after us." "Are you scared?"

"...scared...? No, I'm not scared; sad is more like it... I can't help but think of all the bad stuff that'll happen to him when we leave."

"I won't make up false stuff, but I'll tell you this, Cap', Luffy's strong and you out of everyone know it the most." 

With that, they left, leaving only me and the echoes of their words.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy -  Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

"Hey! We have to go now. Get a move on." "And what are you going to do to me brat? You're not going anywhere without me so get to wait!"

*thwack!*

A kick landed square on my head, causing me to recoil and hold the spot that was hit. "Calm down, Sanji, you still have days till your friends come, and we're going shopping this afternoon. Stop rushing."

"You say that old man, but you don't know them as I do. They're idiots and monsters." I said retaliating

"Oh yeah? How much do they eat in a sitting? Our stock is enough for a fleet, so why are you insistent on more?" He said mostly to himself, but loud enough for me to hear and respond.

"3 meals per day, each with a week's worth. And it's each per person. When we're battle-locked for a day/s,  we eat double the usual, and excluding that every day is like a feast, we can practically consume a month's worth of food in a week. This does not include  Nami, Robin, Chopper, and Ussop. They don't have a big appetite like the rest of us, but it's still more than average, I guess?"

I continued rambling on deep into it not noticing Zeff paling in colour. Sure he knows pirates eat more than the normal and thought doubles for devil fruit users, but that's absurd! what kind of people are they to archive that?

(A/n: This is all pure speculation from what is shown and may or may not be true. The only true thing is probably the fact that Luffy can and does eat weeks' worth of meals a day.)

At this point, we were both lost in our thoughts, completely forgetting anything else and going into autopilot mode. The other workers started almost a year ago, and some started last week with mixed feelings of awe, concern, neutrality, and others.

They all had concluded that we share a deeper bond than chefs -even the newest guy- after a day or two working, but to say they were used? no. The correct and only answer is no. Snapping out their trans, they let us be and didn't disturb us—the last person who did get a foot to his chin.

"Also, we need to pick someone up as well."

"What?"

。°。°。°。°。°Later in the day。°。°。°。°。°

I was sitting by the second-floor railing, enjoying the scenery, looking at everyone cleaning up or prepping a ship. Today was slow, so nothing interesting happened—much to most demise.

"Are you excited?" I turned to see Roger beside me, looking at the sea. 'He looks more human now...' "You could say that," I answered, turning my head back to the sea. "There's something I've always wanted to know."

I hum silently, asking him to continue. "What's his devil fruit...? Luffy's, I mean. I've noticed it's different from other paramecia types I've encountered...almost like..." ah, so it's that. "I see, it's no surprise that you want to know. He should have it back by now, so why don't you ask him? It's not my place to say."

Memories of the time he told us how he got devil fruit came to me. After restless nagging from Chopper, Ussop, and Brook he finally recalled the day to us.  And just when we all thought Luffy's stupidity had already reached high peaks...

I put my hands on my hair, trying not to remember it much.

'I'm not sure if Luffy wants to keep the facade of some game or if he will tell the truth... but I'm sure he'll tell us.' "Besides, don't you know everything about us?" I looked back at him with a half-glare and a confused look. He chuckled a bit before answering.

"Well, no. The voice of the world and occasional news that found its way to the island would tell me about you guys. First, it was a curious discussion from the sea kings that said he heard them and then full-fledgedly talked about him. Since sea kings are sea creatures, they don't know or see much of devil fruits or how they work, so knowing popular stuff was pretty simple and hard."

I stayed silent, taking in his words, then slowly hummed, understanding his words. I wonder how he must have felt living like that. It must've gotten lonely.

We soon fell into a convo talking about random stuff but mostly me filling in the gaps of us. Not halfway through I got interrupted by the chefs downstairs.

. . . . ╰──╮Normal pov╭──╯ . . . .

The chef cupped his hands around his mouth as a makeshift cone and shouted, "Hey Sanji! We're done here!" Sanji looked around to see that they were indeed finished. "Alright! You're free for the day!" he told them, going inside.

"Say... do any of you know what he was talking to?"

"shhh! Don't say that out loud or he'll hear!"

"he talks to himself a lot, so you better get used to it!"

"Poor guy must be lonely being the only child here."

*Chorus of mmhmm*

"Did any of you tell head chef Zeff?"

*Aggressive shaking of heads*

"If we did, who knows what would happen to us!"

"Just think of what he would do if we told him."

Suddenly, with no warning, a cold chill enveloped the place.

。°。°。°。°。°Time Skip。°。°。°。°。°

Sanji and Zeff departed the baratie and were at sea with the shopping boat. Zeff sat quietly, watching where they went, lost in thought. In hindsight, he technically didn't have to come; he could have left it to Sanji and let him do whatever. He's never to be doubted when it comes to food. 

You might go as far as to say he prefers it. But in the case at hand, he was curious, to say the least. 'The squirt suddenly had a friend having left the baratie twice and nowhere near the said island... could it be a friend from his past-future?

"This may be too much for me. I'm getting too old."

"I hear you."

"Old man!" Zeff snapped out of his head and looked at Sanji, holding some food. "Here, pudding and tea." Zeff stared for a bit, then slowly came back. "Ah. Thanks." Taking it from the tray, he took a bit of the pudding, examining everything; a bad, old, useful habit he has as a chef.

"It's too sweet," Zeff said, his face turning into a scowl. " Are you trying to give me diabetes, punk!?" Sanji tilts his head, asking what he means, with question marks coming off him. "This is how I always make the pudding and everyone else likes it... Maybe it's the ingredients. Food in the grand line always tends-"

"Enough. No need to explain it to me" Shades of red covered Sanji's face as he looked away "Y-yeah... I'll be on the other side of the ship if you need me" Quickly he went and sat by the railing curling into a ball; A tray of his share of snacks waiting for him to dig in.

{he... no... look... embar-...then what... he said... other... hear... king...}

"The voices are back... ugh," Sanji mumbled, placing a hand on his head and ruffling his hair. The red shades on his face were gone, forgetting his mood a few seconds ago.

'I wished they'd go away. I can't even understand what they are saying... If Chopper were here, I'd have him give me a check-up to ensure I'm not crazy.'

*sigh* "Hey old man! I'm going to rest up for a bit! Call me when we reach land!" "Didn't I tell you not to call me old man!" With the click of the door, Sanji retreated inside the ship, leaving silence.

. . . . ╰──╮Rogers pov╭──╯ . . . .

I watched as Sanji was lost in thought and went inside the ship, mumbling stuff I couldn't catch. "You guys oughta stop scaring him, ya know?" he said, looking at the sea beneath the boat, a smirk painting his face.

{I'm not sure we get what you're saying.} The sea kings slowly peek their heads out of the water, careful of the chef's view. "HAHAHAHA" five minutes. I spent five minutes laughing, forgetting everything else momentarily. "Phew... no matter how strong or scary you guys are, you act like little kids!"

They all, in sync, turn their heads in a questioning manner. "SEE!"

*another laughing session later*

"So, what are you doing here?" {we wanted... to see the king's... friends} Oh? {we heard from others... he is fond of these so-called friends...} {Yes! he spoke so fondly about them!} They spoke, pausing between words, unsure, thinking carefully, or letting another finish.

"I think I see now...but... didn't you notice that he could hear you? not fully, of course, but still can nevertheless." Some of their eyes widened as they understood what I told them. {But how can...?} {Indeed... only the king and Roger can hear us. The rest are long gone!}

{Let's not forget her.} {Ah, yes.} The small group chatter now turned full reverie continued with confusion, doubt, and slight happiness. "Now, now, I know it's all confusing and all, but let's save it for another day."

They quickly went silent and agreed - some retreated to sea- "Answer me this. Are other sea kings watching Zoro right now?" Silence. "Well?" {Yes...} 

*sighs* "I'm too old for this"

。°。°。°。°。°Somewhere else。°。°。°。°。°
. . . . ╰──╮Zoro's pov╭──╯ . . . .

"Achoo!"

"What's wrong? Getting cold feet, Zoro?" "You bet! Besides, it's only afternoon." "Oh yeah? Let's start on three. One. Two. Three!" we both ran starts forward, breaking all the dummies we had placed for practice.

The dummies each became harder to destroy the farther we went, wanting to see who was faster. We finished with me winning by one.

"Are you cheating?" I looked at her in disbelief. "How can you accuse me of cheating? Tell her, Gramps! I won fair and square."

I turned to the old man fishing, waiting for him to agree with me, but "Hmm? I wouldn't know. I didn't see anything." He said, blowing from his pipe, steadying the fishing rod.

"I thought we agreed you'd keep track of our-" "Quit your whining, Zoro. You're a boy, aren't you?" Huh? Did she cut me off? Who do-

"Do you sense anything strange?" She asked staring suspiciously at the direction left to her. Silence followed and soon we were all staring at where she was trying to get a glimpse.

"Maybe you're just imagining things due to training a lot, take a break." "I don't wanna hear those words, especially from someone like you"

"Yeah, yeah, whatever," swatting off her comment, I continued staring. 'That blur has been getting clearer and clearer...'

"I've gone to sleep. Wake me up when something interesting happens." I walk to a nearby tree and sit below it, putting my sword to the side and closing my eyes.

"That boy... If he's not training or eating, he's sleeping."

The old man said with Kuina sighing, "I'll help you fish."

"At least some here with common decency."

. . . . ╰──╮??? Pov╭──╯ . . . .

//He's the one, huh? Guess it's a good thing he can't see me, or else I'll be dead, hahaha.// I move closer to the man, taking in his features.

//You fella's are sure he's the one?// {Absolutely... He is a friend of our king. We heard it from him himself.

Green-haired, rough but soft face, sword always by his side... Close resemblance to how they described him. Reminds me of him.

//He doesn't look much like how he explained, but that's a given, I guess; after all, he's back in his old body...//

The man quickly opened his eyes, glaring around him. Searching. Soon, he closes his eyes, going back to sleep.

//I can't wait to see the  experiences you'll have, my dear ---------//

How I hope to see you shine brighter than you did before.... No, it is more fitting to say darker, am I right?

King Of Hell...

。°。°。°。°。° With Sanji and Zeff。°。°。°。°。

"I see, so that's how it is, huh...?" Roger hums his face momentarily, losing his happy, unserious persona. "Well then, I best be going. Our chefs here have reached their destination."

Roger stood and went through the ship to where Sanji was. "Now, how will I tell him the sea kings will no longer bother him?" After a bit of contemplating possibilities, Roger finally stuck on one.

Following through with his decision, he finished right when Zeff called Sanji's name. "Huh?" Sanji mumbled, looking around. "Oh... We must be there already."

"That's right. Wake up." "Roger?" In response, he gave one of his famous smiles. "I know you just woke up, kiddo, but I've got to go. Someone has to lead your captain here."

Sanji, now fully into reality, rolled his eyes. "If Mosshead didn't exist, we'd have to worry about where Luffy was instead."

"Hahahaha. Glad to see you get it." "Yeah, thanks for leading us here." Roger hummed, waving bye as he left. Sanji went up to the deck where he had last left Zeff.

"Oh, when you're searching for Zoro, do try the dojo or the shore. At this time of day, he's in one of those places."

"Mhmm, thanks." Roger now left, and Sanji made his presence known to Zeff. "So brat, any idea on what to buy? And who the hell are we picking?"

Zeff was anchoring the boat by the dock, questioning Sanji, "For starters, any food will do. None of them has had allergies for as long as I've known them. Any disputes can be handled when we're cooking."

"Hmm... Anything else?" He asked, getting out of the ship, Sanji in tow.  "Yeah, look out for anyone with green hair that's my height. You'll both know immediately."

An absent-minded reply, but good enough.  Making sure everything was secure and ready, they both walked into the village.

The shops were still open, and people crowded the area. 'What a rare sight. Even when it's close to evening and normal closing time, these guys are still open.'

A thought ran through both of their minds discussing it telepathically with each other. Without hesitation, they went to different but closest shops trying to strike a deal.

"Say, beautiful lady, would you be kind enough to give an offer?"

"Can I get a new first-time customer discount?"

"The sales here are negotiable, don't you think, kind sir?"

By the time evening came, they were half-dead and had no energy. Between looking for a green-haired person -Zoro- and getting food, they spent all they had on them both physically and mentally.

Retreating to the ship, they carefully put everything away, ate whatever leftovers they had, and agreed on doing the manhunt tomorrow.

"What do you say to dessert?"

*Flashback to earlier*

"No thanks, brat. I'm good." 
 
"It's cheesecake."

"... Maybe one slice wouldn't hurt..."

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy -  Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

Shimotsuki village is a small place where practically everyone knows everyone, news spreads fast, and everyone is in the loop. Normally, it would be a good thing, but for Zoro, it was a headache.

Since yesterday, and the whispers of the shopping/man-hunting spree of the blond cooks, news quickly reached the dojo with few good reasons.

One, the described person sounded very much like a certain green-haired person, and two, he was a talent that quickly rose to the top since his appearance a year ago.

"Hey, Zoro, did you hear?" "People are looking for you." "Wonder what you did to them?" That's all Zoro could hear since he entered the dojo. To say it's getting on his nerves is putting it lightly.

His current state could be like all endpoints unlocked: "That swirly eyebrow chef. When I catch him, I'll beat him up." The swordsman thought out loud, scaring anyone near, not sure whether to feel sorry for the chef or themselves.

Swinging his bamboo sword a thousand times. In the background, the loud rumors fell silent from the aura, said the swordsman. "Zoro! The master asked you to stay behind today. He said he wants you to meet someone or something," a boy shouted from the door, breaking Zoro from his trance while saving everyone else.

'THANK YOU *INSERT RANDOM NAME*!'

"Understood." The messenger left, and the room slowly became less stiff. The day went on slowly, but more bearable than earlier. Everyone gave a gift to the boy, leaving him confused.

During lunch, Zoro and Kuina ate by the river where he trains. "Say, Zoro, do you know any powerful women?" Zoro looked at her with eyes of confusion and slight concern.

"It's just that the other day got me thinking. My boobs have started to grow and my feminine features are showing as well. Girls get weaker when they grow; I told you that, right? I can tell you have experience similar to my father's. So I thought..."

'Maybe you can tell me I got what it takes...'

"Did you already forget our promise so soon? We said we'd do what it takes to be the best swordsman in the world. Both in this lifetime and the past..." Zoro said, staring unknowingly while arranging his thoughts. Kuina questioned the last choice of words he mumbled, but didn't speak up about it.

The atmosphere between them changed noticeably, becoming a delicate-if-not-more-delicate situation. Kuina, taken aback, gasped quickly, disregarding that "Of course not. It's natural to have doubts, I'm human after all!"

'Human huh?' Zoro had something of a sad smirk on his face; not visible to Kuina, of course. 'When was the last time I was called Human...?'

Finally, he responded, "There's Nami for starters. She can hurt you both physically and financially." "Huh?" "Then there's Robin. Don't let her mature look get to you; she's a devil. Vivi isn't physically strong but has the will, guts, and conviction. There is also Hancock, who is obsessed with Luffy. She's..."

Zoro soon goes on about most females who left impressions not only for him but for his Nakama, that he heard of and from, now unknowingly not giving Kuina a chance to comment.

For three hours, more or less, Zoro talked Kuina's ears and insecurities out. An act no one thought he was capable of, and neither did he. He was always the quiet one regarding these things after all.

Kuina sat there astonished, with the eyes of a baby who had found interest. A new feeling inside her swelled up as she became immersed. She enjoyed it. It was like a warm shower on a cold day.

Looking up at the sky, she saw a fading orange glow. Suddenly, the world dawned on her. "Time!" Zoro looked at her, wondering what she was going on about. She abruptly stood up, turning to Zoro.

"You have to go meet my father, remember? It's already way past the afternoon. No time! You gotta get going now!" Zoro stood up and started dashing toward the dojo. "You're going the wrong way! Not that side either!" 

By some miracle, Zoro managed to get back to the dojo.

Composing himself in the corridor, he slowly walks to the Master's room and knocks on the door. "Come in." Sliding the door, he entered and respectfully bowed, turning to close the door. "You're late; did you get lost coming here?" The master asked.

It was a harmless question with no meaning behind it, and Zoro knew everyone knew he was bad at directions (even if he denies it). Some noise came from the next room over, alerting him, but he didn't think much of it.

"Thank you for coming," Zoro settled on a cushion before him, choosing to forget what happened. "No problem. What did you call me for?" "There's someone here to meet you. He wouldn't leave until he talked to you. You may come in."

. . . . ╰──╮Master (Shimotsuki) Pov╭──╯ . . . .
。°。°。°。°。° Earlier today。°。°。°。°。°

Lessons have started today, and all the commotion has died down. *Knock knock* "Excuse me, sir, somebody is outside the premises." I paused, curious as to what he meant. "Come in." They came in not a second later, and I indicated they continued.

 "They said they wouldn't leave until he found what he sought. Although he's not disturbing anyone, we thought we should let you know." Someone in front of the dojo? Wait... "Explain what you mean by we." They hesitated for a minute, then spoke.

"The fact is that he's been there since early morning. No one said anything about it till now due to the... rumors going around." his voice got lower towards the end... could he be talking about Zoro? 

I let out a small chuckle, putting down my brush and looking at the man. 'Reminds me of the day Zoro came. "Go and ask him if he'd like to come in. Maybe we could talk over a cup of tea."

I could see the reluctance in him, but he didn't voice it. "...yes, sir." Soon, he left the room. 'The dojo was like this the day Zoro came. Rumors, visitors, the tension in the air.' 

。°。°。°。°。°Short time skip。°。°。°。°。°

The guest accepted my invitation and could now talk. "So tell me your name, young man," I asked, taking a sip of the tea. A smile never leaves my face.  "Sanji. Thank you for having me." My smile lowered a bit at his response 'No second name?'

"Well, I couldn't just leave you waiting outside like that all day.  You're waiting for something, no?" I could tell he was in the thought about my question, eating some rice crackers. "I'm looking for something that could be considered living... but I'm not sure he has the intelligence to be considered alive." What? 

'he's mumbling about whether it's living or not, but still alive?' At this point, I couldn't hide my expression and stared at him. "Ah, sorry. I'm looking for someone called Roronoa Zoro, to be precise."

"Roronoa, you say... what do you want with him if you find him?" he doesn't look to have ill intentions, but if he's the one from the rumors, he'd better be cautious. 

"Well, first, you may or may not know, but he has no sense of direction. We said we'd meet up at the sea restaurant a year ago -not that he ever mentioned it anyway- so I'm here to bring him as an escort."

I hummed, acknowledging what he said, but stayed silent. 'What he said does make sense, but from what I can tell, Roronoa is exactly that kind of person. And Sanji here; He's the same age as any other student here, but he seems to be as mature as Zoro, maybe even more.'

"How about waiting until after the classes and meeting with Roronoa later? For confirmation, what you said may be true, but I can't let a child like him go alone," I suggested, hoping he'd agree. 

"That's fine with me." "Well, I'm glad we're on the same page."

 。°。°。°。°。°Back to the present。°。°。°。°。°

"Hey, marimo. I hope you're ready to go. I don't plan on looking for you anymore." Sanji said with a smug safe, and Zoro looked in his direction with a scowl, already knowing where this was going. "Shut it, curly brows." 

They kept bickering back and forth, but my focus wasn't on that. I furrowed my brows and thought, 'How could I not notice it? Does he also have haki? And it doesn't fall short of Zoro's either... Just who are these two? And why did I only realize it when Zoro and he came into proximity?' 

"Ahem. Thank you for everything, but we have to go now." Sanji looked over to me, gathering himself from the earlier bickering, mumbling something along the lines of staying here for longer than expected. "Ah, yes, you're free to go now, and Zoro is excused from the dojo.

. . . . ╰──╮Normal Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"Goodbye." Both Sanji and Zoro left, and the master released a breath he didn't know he was holding. ' If they're already strong at this time, I wonder about the future.'

Outside the dojo, Zoro paused, also stopping Sanji in his tracks. "There's a place we have to stop by before we go. I have to get my sword." Just as Sanji was about to speak, another voice interrupted, "Do you even know the way?"

"Kuina/ Tashigi-san?" 

The person in question raised an eyebrow at Sanji but quickly dismissed it."What are you doing?" Zoro asked, surprised but not showing it, "I'm sorry to break it to you, but I'm coming along with you."

"Of course!/No" 

Kuina ignored their comments and went ahead of them. "You're friend here may not know it, but you can't be trusted alone, you wouldn't even make it here or anywhere without someone helping."

"That's not true," Zoro quickly countered, but was counter-countered by Sanji. "It is. You may have gotten better at your directions, but something too complicated like this is too much for your moss brain to handle." 

Sanji opened his arms, flailing his hands, looking down, shut-eyed and smug face, shaking his head, "Don't forget how you couldn't come back after you left your village, being lost. That's how Luffy found you, no?"

"ugh.." As much as Zoro wanted to, he couldn't deny that it was true and how Luffy blabbered his mouth about it. "Let's just get going. Can't delay any further if I'm right, we'll see Luffy in soon, so we have to prepare."

The sudden realization didn't surprise Zoro in the slightest, but it was the fact that he was coming so quickly that excited him. Just like their reunion after two years of separation. The three now started walking toward Zoro's home in silence. The sun's setting glow covered them comfortably with an equally nice breeze.

Just like the feeling they get whenever Luffy's near. Remembering all the times spent together.

If only the past were like this. Peaceful, warm, without loss.

Reaching Zoro's house, Kuina and Sanji decided to wait outside as, quote, by Zoro, "It's just my sword, so no need for you guys inside." He had a point, and Sanji wasn't about to miss a chance alone with a woman.

"Your name was Kuina, right?" nodding at his questioning, Sanji took it as a sign to continue. "So how did you get to know such an idiotic moss head like him?"Kuina stood still for a moment, trying to process what Sanji had said.

"I guess he does look like moss with his hair," Kuina giggled, unbeknownst to Sanji's hearty eyes and lovestruck dance. "What a fantastic laugh you have, Me-"

*Clang*

"What was that for, moss head? Did the algae get into your head again?" "Heh, I could say the same to you, curly brow. Is all that goes through your head women and love?"

The newly emerged Zoro was holding his covered katana(wado ichimonji) to strike Sanji, but Sanji blocked with his foot. While the two went into a full-on fight, Kuina, on the other hand, was shocked.

Was it because of the way it started? Or the fact that it's normal? She couldn't tell but one thing she knew for certain. "This happens more than often, huh?" Sighing, she walks up to them, separating the two.

"Are you guys boys or what? Stop fighting for no reason." She got mumble yeses from the two and continued, "Did you get everything you need?" Zoro nodded, positioning the sword better on his shoulder. "I got everything, so we can go now."

"You're going to sea. Why would you only need a sword? Let me look."  she asked, reaching out and attempting to lift the cover off. 

"Stop it," Kuina froze. Her curiosity washed away with dread.

*Flick* Sanji lit his cigarette and took a puff. "He's right. You're better off not touching it." The sudden seriousness in the air struck her to her soul. J-just a moment ago they were fighting and now... it feels like I'm the presence of two monsters! W-will I even survive...?'

As soon as it came, it left. Sanji and Zoro started walking, leaving Kuina a good distance so they wouldn't hear her release a breath she was holding. A long, unsettling minute went by as she tried to gain composure.

When she was done, she slowly walked to the two in silence, following Sanji to the boat. At the dock, they met up with Zeff, who was getting ready to go. "You're back, squirt. These are the guys you wanted us to get?"

Zeff took a look at them, sensing something had happened. Something that shouldn't be talked about. Yet. "Well, what are you waiting for? Get on board or else I'm leaving yer."

Quickly, they all got on the boat, getting ready to disembark, until "Huh? Kuina, you coming along?" Sanji's question got everyone's attention for a different reason. And you can already guess the most curious one.

"Well, if I don't come, who will guide Zoro? Besides, I got my reasons too," She stated as the person in question looked away, oblivious, and Zeff, sweating from what she said and Sanji's decision to befriend them.

"What about your parents or guardians? Won't they be worried?" Kuina was silent, thinking of ways she could convince them, "It's fine. They'll understand."

"Don't worry, dear madame, I'll make sure nothing happens to you!" Sanji said, bowing in front of her, taking her hand, and kissing it.

The next thing that happened was Zoro trying to strike Sanji again, and him blocking. Kuina sighed at this. The two acted on what she said earlier. Zeff ignored them and started the boat, leaving the port behind.

The island was no longer in view, and the two stopped fighting - each sitting on the other side of the ship for safety measures. The moon was now out at sea, stagnant. In a few hours, they would be at the baratie, and Luffy too.

"Did you also carry nothing but your sword as well?"

"No, I made sure to pack necessities."

"Were you planning this? How did you know and have everything on hand?"

"You mean to tell me none of you noticed till now?"

"..."

"At least one of you knows what they're doing."

.

.

.

.

"Are you sure it was a good idea to let Kuina go with them?" Back at the dojo, the master sits on the veranda having a cup of sake in the company of the asker. 

"It is not an issue," he answered. "Maybe then she'll see and learn."

The person looked at the master and then at the sky. He, too, was taking a sip of sake. "Still, I can't help but worry for her safety."

"Perhaps. But with Zoro and their new blond companion, we need not worry."

The moon's reflection mirrored the small pond with flower petals falling into their cups.

Chapter Text

| How does Roger spend his time? |

.

"With the waves to rest our heads-"

{Why do you humans like that song?} A sea king that was following me questioned. I smiled at it, feeling more energetic.

"Well, you see, we pirates like that song because it's a representation of our life. For you guys, it may seem like a silly thing, but for us. For Luffy and his crewmates. It's a form of promise or vow."

The sea king went silent with thought while I continued singing. It was a peaceful walk. After a few minutes, the sea king finally spoke.

{If I can be so rude, let me be the one, -only one- to tell you you're going the wrong way.}

..."Hehehe, must have been too lost in the song I didn't realize." Now, turning in the right direction, I continue on the right path with a sea king that's probably done with me...

.

.

.

| What happens during the shared dream realm? |

.

"So, Luffy, Roger, I have a question." They both raised their heads to look at Sanji. "Do the sea kings' memories come with us to the past, or do they follow you unknowingly?"

Zoro, who was in the back, started to slowly drink his Booze, now interested. "It's more of an 'I see your power, and you can talk to us, so we will do what you asked' Kinda situation. Whether they remember or not isn't that big of a deal to any of them or us so far?

"Must be something to do with Fishman Island and its prophecy (?)" Zoro suggested, "Just the way the sea kings reacted to the princess's cries, they are doing the same for you."

"Ohhhh, you mean weepy-hoshi? Shishishi, I guess that did happen." *Sparkle* *sparkle*

*loom* "Oi Luffy... What do you think you're doing, calling the beautiful princess by that repulsive name!" Luffy, not noticing the mood shift, continued

"Thawts her namd, right?" ...the sound of an existence kettle could be heard from Sanji letting loose

"Stop stuffing your face with food and pay for your crimes!!"

.

.

.

Another day in the shared dream

Everyone has a normal time

Luffy: Roger.

Roger: Yes, Luffy

Luffy: do you poop?

Roger: I can, but don't do so

Luffy: 🤩🤩🤩 SUGOIIIII

Sanji: Why would you ask him that? *smacks Luffy and turns to Roger* and you, why would you answer that?

Zoro: *trying not to choke on booze*

.

.

.

| How does Shanks truly feel? |

.

It was nighttime time and the whole crew was asleep except for a few. Shanks and Ben were among them.

They were sitting at a table by the deck, enjoying the night's atmosphere and sake. It was a comfortable scene for a question.

"Shanks, how do you feel about Luffy and the current situation?" the man in question swung his drink, giving a confused hum.

"I mean, everyone's noticed that Luffy's changed and has likely only told you, but the fact is we're all concerned, but we're also worried about you."

Ben stared at his captain's face, waiting for his answer. A sad smile covered Shanks's face, and he took a huge swing of his sake.

"Heh. You know how to read me like an open book. I'm not sad or worried about Luffy, I'm more worried about Makino and leaving her all by herself *hic*"

"Mhmm," Ben gave a small, knowing smirk, not mentioning his captain's crying. "The moon's sure beautiful tonight." The conversation no longer continues as Benn takes a sip of his sake.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

"Hey. Don't you think you should give the kid a gift or something?" 

"What a weird way to start a conversation."

"You may not show it, but we know he plans something. Something big."

"Hah! The kid is as good as he can be! Besides, I already gave him somethin'"

"True, it may not serve him any practical use."

"..."

"If it's too embarrassing, just say it's from everyone."

.

.

.

"Would he even want it..?"

. . . . ╰──╮With Luffy╭──╯ . . . .

"Hey! Hey! Ussops mom!" I called for her, running up the hill. I saw her with Yassop talking in the sun. Their heads turned to me, casting a smile. "Yes, what would you like, Luffy? More snacks?"

Before she could reach a plate, I stretched my hand, grabbed the food, shoved it to my mouth with the other one, and launched myself at them. "Shishishishi! I'm going to take Ussop with me!"

I didn't need to use observation haki to predict what would happen next. "What do you mean, 'take Ussop with you?'" I momentarily ignored her shock and turned to Yassop. "You don't have a problem, do you? Shishishishi!"

Although her face didn't show it, I could feel her discomfort. "Excuse me while I go get more snacks." She left, most likely to think about what I just did. I pouted a bit. 'Too bad she isn't bringing meat, but the snacks are good! But not as good as Sanji's.'

"Bwahahahahaha! What are you planning this time, anchor?" I grinned. I'm going to take Ussop on adventures with me!" "If you want to take my son on adventures, you gotta get through me!" he said as his laughter faded, but not his smirk.

"Why should I ask someone who nearly(did) abandoned their family for a pirate life when his wife was sick and a son my age? I'd be more likely to ask Sword Fingers before going to you for approval. And I bet you never had Ussop's or Ussop's mother's direct approval, did you?"

(A/N: the 'Sword Fingers' is Kuro, Kuro of a Hundred Plans, or his alias Klahadore, the antagonist of Syrup Village in disguise as Kaya's butler, in case you may have forgotten)

One word. Danm! Yassop stared at me in a daze, spilling his drink. It was like he stared at Hancock's beauty for the first time(which may also be true). Luckily for him, Bachina could be heard coming, and he regained himself quickly.

"When did you learn that sharp tongue of yours?" he asked, and I just gave off a knowing smirk. It didn't serve any purpose, even if he knew. No one would believe him shishishishi.

Bachina coughed to get our attention back on her and the matter at hand. "No! I can't have you young kids who are barely ten years old alone on the dangerous sea! And I'm not only saying this out of concern as Ussop's mother, but as a person who is concerned."

Her tone softened. She sighed, continuing.

"Shank's is the one who brought you here, yes? Well, he's about to embark on a dangerous journey far away from the East Blue once he gets you back home. If you plan on going with him and Ussop, I suggest you give up on that."

My face remained indifferent to her words. Even if she was being sensible and all... 

'They annoy me!'

"You don't have to tell me. I already know those things, and yet I am still trying again! Ussops is a precious friend of mine! I'm no kid you need to worry about. I. won't. Let. Anyone. Harm. Him."

I didn't give them time to respond as I launched myself away from them, from anyone. "I can protect Ussop, you know, " I stopped in my tracks, looking down, "but I can't promise he won't be hurt." I left before they could say anything.

I wonder what Vivi would have done if she had been here. Robin and Jimbei, too, they always were sensible...

Ussop was my friend. A special nakama who took up an important part of my life, I would never replace. (contrary to what we're going to do soon.) As the weakest of us, he held more courage than anyone else. But I couldn't repay him in full...

But this time I swear I will!

Memories of the fight with him about the merry surfaced, ripping at my heart, but I pushed them down. Moving towards a tree, I climb it and lie down. No one will find me here for a while. . . I can close my eyes for a bit.

。°。°。°。°。°Back with Bachina and Yassop。°。°。°。°。°
. . . . ╰──╮normal Pov╭──╯ . . . .

Silence covered the two like a heavy blanket. Before Bachina could speak, Yassop cut her off: "I should go to the ship and talk with Shanks. If anyone knows Luffy, it's him."

He stood up and extended his hand, shooting her a smile. "Don't worry too much. Maybe the kid entered his rebellious phase early, or we influenced him too much."  As much as Yassops's attempt to cheer his wife failed miserably, she couldn't help but smile.

She took his help and cleaned up the area, going inside, leaving only Yassop with his face now frowning. Luffy was keeping a secret. And he suddenly knew how to... It didn't take Yassop, a master at observation haki, to see that he was acting weird. Everyone knew but never spoke about it.

Ever since they returned and caught the mountain bandits, he has no longer been the Luffy they knew. The whole crew disregarded it. Logically, that would scare any child seeing somebody killed in front of them, even a confident, unknowing, unassuming Luffy.

But now, a year after that, he's acting differently, more maturely. He knows something we don't. He's fighting a battle we can't perceive. 

'he even managed to get the captain to allow him on this trip, let alone bring me and my family back together.' The trip down the hill to the dock was as noisy as expected. But not from outside weather or animals, but from the cogs and wheels in his head.

But he wasn't the only one with a thought-filled head...

。°。°。°。°。°Meanwhile, with a sleeping Luffy。°。°。°。°。°

The scenery was now of a sky island instead of the patio in the green, flowery field last time. The Sky Island had a bonfire in the middle like the one made in Skypia, and the wolves(?) there. It's all similar to Skypia, but it didn't have the part of the island that flew(launched) up.

'Skypia must have looked like this before nuthead's family found Gold City.' In the past few days of trial and testing, the trio, plus Roger, learned new things.

1.  They decided to name it Merry's World. In memory of the old merry who saved them from time to time and the one they'll see in a few years, they'll continue to have adventures with her no matter what. They also hoped that Merry's soul would come here, but it was far-fetched, even if things aren't making sense.
   
   
2. The place changes into anything they want, with the default state being the clear, vast, blue water plain. They also have closed doors around the area, but haven't cared to open them yet.
   
   
3. Any injury or anything you eat won't follow you to the real world, which is counter-effective for Luffy(Do I need to say why?). Also, they discovered they could change their body into any form or age they were -by accident-(Think we can guess who). 
   
   
4. Besides changing this place, we can add stuff from the past here. Roger's pestering meant that the trio made a wall dedicated to their bounty evolution and a souvenir of each adventure on different islands. -Roger has the story from all three perspectives. Also, it was one of the things that didn't change with the world.

It wasn't too hard to find all this out, as any sparing session wouldn't drain them when they woke up, and how Luffy complained he was hungry when he woke up the next time they met, and the scenery change was obvious from the get-go.

The random doors that stayed open or closed added a weird but comforting touch to the name. Each had its intricate design, but that's all they bothered to know. Roger volunteered to investigate it for them, with no leads yet.

Walking further into the island, Luffy spotted Roger by the wanted posters. "ROGER!!" Without warning, he launched himself at said person. Roger, by grace, had enough time to turn his back and brace for impact, unintentionally catching Luffy.

Seconds passed, and they both broke into their characteristic laugh, smiling brightly. They soon separated and got comfortable in each other's presence. They didn't need to say anything. Whatever they wanted to express just radiated out of them, and the other seemingly understood.

Like sun rays that peep through the smallest of holes. Not that they realize. Of course. Their crewmates knew about this, and it became normal not to say anything. In Luffy's case, his look could tell when to laugh or be serious. What to do and not do.

Sanji and Zoro see these silent conversations more than they would like, but feel calm? Relived? With Luffy's ideal, idol, and goal sitting next to him, and a D. no less, they are happy to know that someone understands him, even if it saddens them that it's not them, or the crew, unfortunately.

They also realized they freakishly say the same words with the same expression and pose... yeah... They once had a conversation about it, only to give up.

Sanji: Must be the D. right?

Zoro: Beats me. No one knows what it means anyway.

Sanji and Zoro are in contemplative silence.

Zoro: So where's my booze, curly brows?

Sanji: GO TO HELL MOSSHEAD!!

Anyway, that's how Luffy and Roger spend their time together in Merry's world.

"So, you'll see Shanks for the last day today?" Roger started a verbal conversation. "Mhmm! I have our straw hat, and he has his arm. I'd say it's time to continue with the original timeline."

"hahaha. You do have a point," Roger nodded, adding that this was all new terrain, so best stick to what happened before. Now engaged, Luffy finally asked all the questions he wanted, but was held back due to his wings.

"Can you swim?" "I don't know."

"Are you dirty forever?" "*Gasp* I wasn't even dirty to begin with!!!*

"Can you taste the flavor of food?" "Haha, of course I can!"

"Do you feel itchy or other stuff now?" "...skip..."

"Do you feel lighter as a ghost with no body?" "Ack! Brutal! ...yes"

"Can you poop?" "Haven't you already asked this?"

"Are you as sick as a ghost? Can you get sick?" "Luffy... what part of no physical body do you not get?"

"If I push, will you feel it?" "It may go through me..."

"What about with Armament haki then?" "Let's try it!"

 Luffy readies and swings his fist for a punch as Roger moves further. Applying the haki on his arm, he gets serious. "Gomu gomu no... Pistol!"

"So how did it feel?" Roger asked, going towards Luffy as his hand retracted.

Luffy stood stunned. His fist landed, sure, but not in an expected way. Coming in contact with Luffy's fist hits a soft, hard material that is Rogers' body. He only had one thought. "tofu...?"

Roger looked at the younger man in disbelief. Not sure whether to be offended or take it genuinely. Looking at Luffy's face, he could tell that even he was at a loss.

Maybe if one of his nakama were here, they could help him.

"It was soft but hard like tofu. It wasn't jiggly either!" Luffy explained more, and all Roger could do was hum and chalk it up to the truth. Not like he'll ever know it's a lie or not. And Luffy was the worst liar he'd known! 

More than buggy when he said he didn't lose treasure from the precious raid they did. (Everyone knew he did it, but couldn't help play along.) It was a large sum, but they didn't care. They were happy after all.

"... does that mean you can be eaten...?" Luffy said as if it were a revelation as large as the One Piece. Roger did not like that. "Luffy no." he floated back and few steps. "But-" "No buts! Luffy no is Luffy no!"

And like usual, no or the thoughts of others, didn't stop him. Alas, he shamelessly attempted to get hold of the older man and eat him as the tofu he said he was. This went on for minutes.

"It's time for you to wake up." Those words snapped Luffy straight. You've spent an hour here. I'm pretty sure that there will be enough time for everybody to be ready. You wanted to take Ussop with you, no?"

" Ah! You're right! Thanks, old man tofu-san. I have to go bring ussop with me." Roger was ticked. "Just get going already!" Having the last laugh, Luffy left to go back.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

Luffy woke up in the same spot where he had fallen asleep; only now, the difference was that it was 4 o'clock, and his hat had fallen to the ground, surrounded by stray creatures. He smiled and returned his hat to its rightful place, alerting the creature and scattering into the trees or bushes.

"Yosh! Let's get going, or they might get suspicious." Luffy jumped and swung from tree to tree. His mind was clear after seeing Roger in Merry's world. Most of his negative thoughts had left, and he could barely remember what he and Ussop's mom had talked(argued) about.

He could see the port after swinging for a few minutes, and increased his pace. More than three-quarters of the crew were there, tying up loose ends. 'Thanks, old man Roger, for waking me up. They might have had to search the whole island to find me, or worse, left without me.'

Luffy lamented at that thought, visibly crinkling his face. He wouldn't put it past them, but at the same time, they keep promises. In the original timeline, when they met again after years of sailing, Benn finally taught Luffy how to use a gun.

°。°。°。°。°。Flashback  。°。°。°。°。°

They made a promise/bet before he ate the gomu gomu no mi when he tried to persuade Benn instead of the usual Shanks to take him, which was smart of him on his part, but still the same response. He could remember that clearly as if it were a day.

"How about this?" Benn stared while putting out his cigarette. "Once you become a great pirate like you promised Shanks, I'll teach you to use a gun." Young Luffy looked offended at that. "Huh!? Why do I need to? Just take me with you!" Benn smirked, struggling to hide a snicker. 

"You said you're punches are like pistols, ya?" you could hear Luffy's mumble 'ack' as he started sweating profusely. "How can you quote one quote, punch like pistols if you don't know how they work or how to use them?" Another choking sound was made and heard.

He only said that because guns look cool, especially when Benn uses them, but he wasn't going to admit it to that man. "You gotta at least know how to fight and use a weapon if you wanna sail with us, let alone be a pirate," Benn added, making Luffy step back.

While he hated to admit it, it was true. He had no comeback. He knew that everyone in Shanks' crew didn't have devil fruits and had to fight with their swords or guns. Benn patted Luffy's head, not pushing any further. "Become a good pirate, and when we meet again, I'll teach you how to use a gun."

"What good will it do when I've become a pirate?" Luffy asked without thinking. One of the few times his brain became logical. "That I can't answer. But who knows? Knowing you, you might eat a devil fruit one day and be forced to use a gun, or you'll be challenged to a duel at noon or a davy back fight." 

"What?" Luffy said, shooting Benn a confused look, "You'll understand when you become a pirate. But I'm trying to say you can't come with us." Luffy nodded, and Benn kept rubbing his head with a soft smile. Luffy, this round understood and gave up, and without any drastic measures *cough* *cough* stabbing his face *cough*.

°。°。°。°。°。Back to present 。°。°。°。°。°

Luffy smiled at the memory, landing on the mast of the Red Force. "There he is!/Anchor's here!" the crewmates who noticed immediately shouted, drawing the attention of everyone else. Importantly shanks.

"Shishishishi! Hey guys!" Luffy waved with his usual smile plastered on his face. And the rest followed and started smiling. He is a ball of sunshine, with or without his Devil Fruit.

"Hey, anchor! Come down!" Luffy did as asked, but halfway. Gripping the mask with one hand, he lowered himself till he was hovering a few metres above the deck's floor. "Shanks!" "Hey kiddo, ready to go?"

"Is Usopp here?" Luffy responded with a question to the question, which didn't throw off some arlams, but was uncommon. "he's over by the pier. Yassop's talking his ear off cause of, and I quote, *ahem*

"Bachina got sick after I left and didn't get better,  and because I left without a word, my young man hated it, so I'm going to spend a lot of time with him before I go."

I'm not sure if he meant that or even said that. I was too drunk to listen." Mumbling a small apology at the end of his talk, which was reviewed with displeased grunts of the rest who had."

 Disappointed, but not surprised.

//The lady...//

!?

. . . . ╰──╮Luffy's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

I froze mid-air mid-swing, alerted by whatever that was. 'Was that a voice!? Where is it coming from?' Benn, who noticed my stillness, raised a brow. "Something' wrong?" I snapped back to look at him.

"I forgot something. I'm going to get it real quick! Don't leave without me!" I wasted no time in swinging once more away from the ship to the hill. "I could tell that they got worried and were staring, but I didn't focus on that for now.

On the hill, I could see the silhouette of a house, but was quickly distracted when I felt the same presence again. My feet touched the ground as I became hyper-aware of what was happening. 

"Who are you?" I shouted, activating my observation haki.

Sparks flew around my perception like a lighter in the dark, like this presence was a ray of light that passed through the leaf opening, only to disappear when you see it.

"Orewa, Monket D. Luffy. Kaizoku oni naru otoko da!"

// ...... D. oh ----- king ---- forg -----------the ho --------- att ------- Lu-------//

My head snapped in the direction the voice supposedly came from, only to find nothing but a space. My haki wasn't working. If I release any more shanks, the rest will notice. 'What do I do?'

Round and round, spinning // List-// and turning, for what felt like hours, was //Yo-// a mere six //Mo-// minutes. I almost hurled the food I ate! Sure, I have //-ler// a lot of coil and turn attacks, especially gear five, but that doesn't mean //-st// you get to do that too, Mysterio's voice!

"SHUDDDAAPP!!! GOMU GOMU NO FIREWORKS!"

*snap!* *crunch* rustle* *wobble* *Thud!* *bang*

Twisting my arms and legs, then releasing them to attack. I hoped it hit the person who was the voice just as I hit the trees. Slowing down, then stopping, I retracted my arms and stumbled on my feet. I once again focused on my haki, which felt clearer but still blurry.

Sensing nothing, I got a cold chill down my spine. So cold just like the one..."The one when I thought I lost my nakama...!"

'left! No. Right! No. In fr-'

In front of me, which were previously trees, now stood the silhouette of the house I had seen earlier in its full glory. And that's when it struck. It was Kaya's mansion that Usopp sneaked into every day to see her. 

The voice was trying to lead me here?  

'...That's right! Sword fingers plans to steal from the whole family after death. But he doesn't even start working until many years later.' Contemplating what to do took more energy from me than I expected. If only one of the rest were here, I'd listen to them, then go off and do my own thing.

*sigh* "Well, I can at least give them a bounty poster of his. Good thing I got this while dealing with the bounty hunters. Now just a way to convince them to keep it..."

"Luffy? What are you doing here?" Huh? "Ussop?" I turned back to him with a bag, some flowers, and a box in hand. "Ohh, I just ended up here without noticing. shishishi." Luckily, that wasn't a lie.

I truly have no idea why the voice brought me here. I started sweating at how that sounded. "Anyways, it's a good thing you're here." Why is it a good thing? Ussop walked into the compound and stood before the door, ringing the bell and waiting.

A minute or two passes, and surprisingly, Kaya opens the door and not the sheep butler. It looks like Usopp was not ready for this because he starts stumbling and rumbling. It's a good thing I was out of earshot, as I can't hold my giggles or expression.

I couldn't hear them, unfortunately, but I could tell it was an important talk. I turned my back on them and sat down, waiting for them to finish. 

Moments passed, and Ussop had finished indicating that by calling out my name. I could tell he now come back with only the bag, leaving the flowers and the box with Kaya. It just felt right. Like that's how it's supposed to be.

. . . . ╰──╮Author's Pov╭──╯ . . . .

"Thanks for waiting,"  Ussop stated. Luffy stood up and dusted himself off. The few minutes of waiting did wonders for his brain. Forget one problem with something else. 

"Sooo," Ussop started nervously walking ahead down the proper path. He opened his mouth and closed it, similar to a fish trying to find the right words. He cringed at himself, making Luffy tilt his head in curiosity, but said nothing.

He knew Ussop was a talkative person by nature, so when he had trouble talking, he'd wait, just like he used to. Whether he decides to take his funny approach or just a Usopp approach. 

The late-night talks when he was in charge of stopping Luffy's night raid on the fridge had been when Usopp was his truest self. Looking back, both wouldn't have a response as to why Luffy was easy to talk to, but now there are high chances it's the liberation soldier in Luffy freeing not only people, slaves, or countries, but also emotions.

"I wanted to tell you that the great Capt. Ussop is joining you!" Luffy smiled, giving his signature laugh. Whether it was one of 'that makes me so happy' or 'I knew you would' or 'you didn't have a choice', only he'd know. (and possibly Sanji and Zoro)

"I had you talking with my parents (and with my dad's crew), telling them that you're gonna bring me along, sometimes when you sleep too- I was really surprised. You suddenly appeared like a week ago and then reunited me and my mom with dad and even cured her! 

The time we spent together felt unreal, and I was truly very happy. So when you said you want me to come with you... I was scared. Scared of leaving my mom alone with no one else and her getting sick again. Scared that she may die for real this time, without anyone looking out for her. Without seeing me grow up or dad growing old with her.

It made me think I was just a cruel son taking advantage of a mother's kindness and not giving anything in return. But, mom knew what I was feeling, she said to me it's fine and go do what I want to do, be what I wanna be. Heh, mother's instinct or whatever you'd call it, I guess.

Then today, my dad pulls me aside to tell me to go with you and become a great man who faces the sea every day. I was confused at first, I mean, last time he left, he said not to go, and now he's changing sides? But looking into his eyes, I could see he was as genuine as he could get. he was proud. 

I didn't want to let him or anyone down, so I did what I wanted to do. Become a pirate.  Become one with my best friend, you. I'll become a powerful pirate that mom won't have to worry about, and dad will be proud of! 

And I want to do it with you, by my side, Luffy."

By the end of his speech, they were already at the base of the hill, and time seemed to have stopped. The surrounding area was quiet, save for the wind howling with rustling trees. Usopp let out a breath he was unknowingly holding. He must have been troubled for some time, and let it go now all at once.

He looked at Luffy, taken aback by his expression. At some point in the speech, he began crying rivers with an expression rarely seen on him and was biting his trembling lip not to let any noise out. He soon wrapped his hands around Usopp, rubbing his face on his own, almost suffocating him.

"M mmmmm mmmm mmm mmmm mmmm mmm! mmmm mmm mm, mmmm mm mmmmmmmmmm mmm mmmm! mm mmmmmm, mmmmm mm mmmm mmmmm mmmmmmm mmm mm mmm mmmm! m mmmmm mmmmm mmm mmm mmm mmmm mm mmm mmmm mmmm mm mmm! (I never knew you felt that way! From now on, tell me everything you feel! Of course, you're my best friend forever and no one else! I wanna travel the sea and sail in the same ship as you!" 

Though Ussop was very confused at what he said, he couldn't help the stray tears from his eyes. Wiggling his arms out as much as possible, he hugged Luffy back and kept silent. Only sniffles came from each other.

It felt like forever, and Luffy wouldn't have it any other way. He misses the close contact and is sure Zoro and Sanji do too. Well, mostly Sanji, but we're sure Zoro wants at least one hug.

The pair came out of their state when they heard the voices of people. The direction the noise came from was the ship, and was made by the townspeople and Bachina saying their goodbyes.

"Oh crap! We're gonna be late! Let go, Luffy!" Ussop now was struggling to get Luffy off him, and Luffy, in return, just laughed, only unwrapping one hand. "Shishishi, leave that to me!" His now free hand grabbed onto a tree and stretched it as much as he could. 

"GOMU GOMU-" He lets go, and Usopp starts praying. "LAUNCHER!!" And just like that, the pair were in the air, making a beeline trajectory to the red force at max speed. The harmonious discord of Ussop's screaming and Luffy's laughing alerted everybody once they got close.

All the villagers and Shanks' crew went mute, and their eyes turned to the sky. They blinked once, twice, and then thrice. Finally, their eyes popped out of their sockets, and their jaws dropped. 

"IS THAT LUFFY/USSOP/ANCHOR/MY SON/CHILDREN!!!???"

Safe to say the villagers short-circuited, and the red-haired crew sweated as they neared the ship, people started running away and making space. Not sure that they won't hit them or have too much of that, we'll never know.

Closer to the ground, Luffy let go of Usopp and started breathing in a large amount of air, becoming a human balloon. Luffy had landed first on the mast, then bounced off it and rolled down to the deck. Ussop, who had lost consciousness, fell on Luffy, who now released all the air in him.

Silence shrouded them, which was soon followed by vigorous footsteps that surrounded them. 

"Men... SET SAIL!" Shanks shouted, and half the spectators went and did as told. "Looks like the guest of honor is here," Lucky said. "Nice going, son! Way to make an entrance!"  Yassop said nodding approval.

Benn, as usual, was the logical one and noticed that the two had blanked out. Ussop, the shock, Luffy, the thinking. "C'mon, someone help me get them to a bed. They are not in a state to deal with us." Some groaned and others mumbled mother hen under their breath. Benn just rolled his eyes, thanking Yassop for carrying Ussop.

By now, they were long gone from the island and port, but not too far to see the waving figure of Bacchina for the last time.

°。°。°。°。°。Hours later, nighttime. 。°。°。°。°。°

"What did you give her?"

"A book of all my adventures."

"Our adventure has only just begun?"

"I know."

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

To say that the monster trio's connection with each other, no matter how far, is a blessing might be putting it lightly. It's a Lifeline.

Sanji is grateful for this. Not for him but for his other two companions, Luffy and Zoro, he knew that they locked most of their emotions to survive, and while he did too, he had a release, and they did not.

Luffy won't willingly cry. He hates crybabies and is a captain and the pirate king. He can't cry. Zoro also won't cry because he believes he gotta be the strongest and the most serious one in the group. Which is true to a degree, but then what?

Sanji knew that if he wanted them to release their pent-up emotions and feelings, he would have to force them, and luckily, Merry's world provided the best for just that. Roger was not there that night, and the trio slept simultaneously.

It would be easy to get them(Luffy mostly) to cry. Sanji planned this from the moment Ace died, whenever he had time from his hellish training. Mainly for Luffy, but he added Zoro the moment he noticed he lost his smile.

He wasn't sure why he was doing this. Maybe it's because he takes the most care of the crew when there are no physical injuries? Perhaps he saw his mother in them and wanted to do better and lessen their burden.

His burdens have always been about food and family, which he got rid of after Whole Cake Island. He gained peace of mind knowing Reiju was fine and still cared, and his bastard of a father still had some humanity, no matter how little. At least his tears said so then.

He felt happy when his non-biological family came to save him, even when he clearly betrayed them and even attacked them. He silently vowed never to do that again or let the others do the same. He'd take care of them just like his sickly mother did. 

Ah. That must be the real answer. 

When the rest of the crew died, he felt something snap, and he lost control. Those who lived and heard news called him the rampaging noble. It wasn't a long-lived title, so he forgot it. Whether as a coping mechanism or the unpopularity of the name, I can't say I know.

 He could still remember their last words.

"You have to be the one navigating now, Sanji-kun. Or else those idiots would get lost."

"Take care. I won't be able to treat you guys."

"Remember me, okay?"

"It's been fun. Do your best, Sanji."

"Make Luffy king of the Pirates!"

"I had fun living with you all."

"A man needs to do what a man gotta do!"

Even Vivi's when they reunited.

"Luffy is the man who will become king of the Pirates!"

He kept their wishes and dreams, leading him to Laugh Tale and making him the King of Pirates. But that was empty without the rest of the family. So when he got this chance at a new start, he promised himself not to let them die again.

Sanji made Merry's world a mix of their current homes: a Japanese-style room with hammocks and a mini kitchen with a dining table. The room was covered with blankets and pillows, and a fan hung on the wall to create the needed atmosphere. He had a transponder snail in the corner playing music as he set up the table with snacks and drinks. Trinkets covered the ground, which, upon closer inspection, were nothing that interested them during their journey. 

Outside was nighttime, like in the real world, which worked in his favor. After all, the night reveals all secrets. Well, maybe the saying wasn't like that, but it didn't matter. He considered adding small lights, but forgo the idea. This needed to be as emotionally real as it could get.

The two should be here any minute now, and it was time to put his plan into action. "SANJI!" Speak of the devil. The door opened, and a bouncing Luffy came through with Zoro behind him.

"Finally, here I see?" Luffy just laughed, and Zoro grunted. 

"Sanji! I'm on my way to you right now! Good job getting Zoro, or else he would get lost! Shishishishishi." Sanji smiled, asking them to close the door. It would be an awkward start, but hopefully, it would help them. No. It has to help them.

"No smirky remake ero cook?"  Zoro asked, noticing that Sanji said nothing of a smart remark. "Nah, not this time. I wanna have a serious talk tonight." That made Zoro and Luffy, who were silently listening, stiffen.

They wouldn't have reacted this way if it had been any other day. Yes, they would pay more attention, but due to their connection, they knew it was something more internal than external. Something to do with them.

And honestly? They felt relieved. No way was Luffy starting a conversation like that, and Zoro was bad with words, let alone the fact that he rarely speaks. However, it still didn't make the current situation any more comfortable.

"We've suffered a lot, and I know because I was there too, but I want you guys to release all of it. Before we meet up in the real world for the first time, I want us to release everything." The silence that followed was intoxicating, but Sanji waited.

Waited for them to get his words, then waited for them to say whether they wanted to continue or stop. Waited to see if he needed to say more encouraging words. 

"What do you suggest we do?" And for once, there was a look of vulnerability on Luffy's face that they'd never seen. One of mental tiredness and perhaps brokenness. Zoro looked away, possibly not feeling strong enough to look at his captain. His jaw clenched, and you could hear the grinding from his teeth.

A soft smile adorned Sanji's face, and he held their hands. Keeping them grounded. "Well, for starters, let's start simply by saying what we regret. As for the explanation, it's the same as when you shout you're gonna be king of the pirates or Zoro, the number one swordsman. 

Don't you feel better? Like you can do it?" He repeated words said by Chopper when he accompanied him, treating people. He also heard something similar from Robin one night they stayed watch. One of the times, she wasn't saying anything scary.

"We'll start by saying every regret from the sabaody separation till Laugh Tale," Sanji said, taking it slow. If you told Zoro years ago that he would be comforted and take comfort in Sanji, he'd call you crazy and even threaten to use his swords on you.

He hated the fact that it was true. His expression became softer after he got this second chance and saved Kuina as a start. He now smiled and laughed like he did pre-time-skip, but still hid his emotions.

He knew that Sanji was doing his best to help them. He always had, and now it is no different. 

"I regret not being strong enough to stop us from being split."

"I regret being unable to stop Kuma or hold him off that time."

Luffy started, and Zoro followed. Sanji nodded and rubbed their palms, easing their tensions. Slowly, they fell into a state of saying all their regrets and tears with no filter. Luffy and Sanji found out how Zoro lost his eye, Sanji and Zoro how Luffy had some of his life shaved off during Impel Down, Marine Ford and his gears, Luffy and Zoro, Sanji's childhood in full, and what his mother did for him and his siblings.

By the end of it, they were lighter than before. Looking like a kid normally should be, excited by anything, and concerned by nothing. "Thank you..." Those words were whispered into the air and were the end of this session. A signature at the bottom. An end that is only a beginning.

"Time to wake up soon," Sanji said. His internal clock is working the same even now. "We'll meet each other again for real today. DON'T mention anything about the time travel to anyone." Zoro started reminding them -he was looking at Luffy the whole time. 

"Only Shanks and partially Sanji's old man and the old man know, and that's it." Luffy nodded, and Sanji took one last puff of his cigarette. Their faces were red and swollen from the earlier activity, which in turn made them grateful that any physical change here wouldn't happen in the real world.

This would be another one of their little secrets.

.

.

.

.

.

The baratie was as loud and busy as it could be with everyone moving about doing a chore. Our monster trio would finally be reunited, and this brought about Sanji's rare perfectionist side. Not to mention the other factors, such as Shanks, an Emperor of the sea who helped them multiple times, and Luffy mainly.

He started ordering everyone on what to do, not his old man, Kuina, or Zoro, though. He left them still in bed, sleeping.  Sanji, since dawn, has been stuck in the kitchen cooking every meal himself, rejecting help from the other chefs.

They couldn't help but still be unsettled by a kid working the way he does or smoking. Many tried to talk to Zeff or keep him away, but that only resulted in getting kicked. By Sanji. Now, after learning their lesson, they unanimously agreed to do whatever he said, no questions asked.

"Is the dining spotless? *nods* Alright, go do the utensils. But first, confirm the ship's functions are still normal. Can't fight if everything is not in order." The person just quietly left, questioning Sanji's use of the 'fight'.

Scurrying towards the door and to his task, he passed a green-haired boy but didn't pay heed. Just as he turned a corner, he heard him mumbling.

'Even when his rear perfectionist side shows, his still concerned-' 

He couldn't hear anymore and didn't stop.

'Just like in the previous life.'

"Hey, cook. See, you're pretty busy." Sanji turned to the voice and noticed Zoro at the door, smiling. The blonde also smiled, "Yeah, as you can see, I'm preparing our reunion meal."

"All by yourself?" "Mhm, I'm sure Luffy would want it to be that way. He's always been a picky eater without being one." That surprised Zoro. "Him? Picky!? The same person to eat food off a floor???"  And Sanji sensed his confusion and laughed at that quickly explained.

"During the Zou and Whole Cake Island episode, he refused to eat once he found out I left. Not sure he or the rest said so, but he almost starved if it wasn't for me running back to him." Zoro remembered how he wasn't there to stop that from happening, hearing from Chopper one random night, she thought to confess.

It was one of the things he 'released' yesterday night or session. "That's why... Okay." "But forgetting all that, is there anything you need? You can sleep more if you like, you know?" By now, Sanji is in the far opposite place of the kitchen, grabbing a step stool to use.

"Nah. I had some good sleep already."  Silence filled the room for a good minute. Sanji was shaken up by his response, which wasn't like him. He felt like a proud mother hen seeing Zoro say something with no heaviness in his voice.

"Though I would like some alcohol." 'How dare you ruin a good moment!' Sanji went in for a kick, which Zoro blocked and left the kitchen laughing. The chef just sighed, going back to focusing on the food.

°。°。°。°。° On The Red Force。°。°。°。°。°

Luffy and Sanji were on the deck playing a *Ahem* rigged *Ahem* game of cards. And the winner was... surprisingly Luffy?

"I WON! AHA!" He was jumping and swinging everywhere, and even the monkey joined in(sorry if he has a name, I just don't know it.) Ussop sat there, devastated. "How... how come? I don't accept! THE GREAT USSOP HAS NEVER LOST A GAME OF CARDS!"

Everyone else around just watched them with a smile, a quarter of the ship circling the spot they sat and played in moments ago, each choosing a side to win.

Safe to say the majority chose Ussop due to it being Luffy they were talking about here. Lucky came onto the deck with some drinks and fruits, carried with the help of other crewmates.

"Food!" Luffy had stopped his dancing and went straight to Lucky to stuff his face. The rest of the crew came around to help themselves.

"So, Luffy, what does this Baratie look like?" Well into the voyage and a few hours upon arrival, Lucky asked, interested in the restaurant as a fellow cook himself.

Right now, most of the crew was on the deck -secretly- spending more time with Luffy before they left for the Grandline. For Yassop was Ussop, but we don't talk about that. The boy in question hit his super thinking pose with his arms half-crossed and a finger on his forehead, with his tongue sticking out. And when he finally found it, he hit his palm with his fist.

"Ah! Looks like a fish!"

"A fish?" Many spectators questioned, tilting their heads

"Mhmm with fins and everything!" Luffy giggled.

"Psst. Maybe it's like a sea creature carrying the restaurant?"

"Don't be crazy. Sea kings here aren't large enough to carry a restaurant, let alone why and how they would carry it from the beginning!"

"This is Luffy we're talking about. Maybe it does look like a fish...?"

"..."

"bwahahahahahahaha!!!"

"No way!/ Impossible!/ He's just bad at description!"

.

.

.

.

"No way..."

"Impossible..."

"He was supposed to be bad at descriptions..."

"Shishishishi!"

The order of things was simple. Arrive, find out it's an island or, begrudgingly, a sea animal, but still nonetheless prove Luffy wrong. But no. they ate shit cause Luffy was telling the truth. 

It is a fish. And even got them fins on them just like he said.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

The Red Force reached the Baratie an hour and a half after the card game, with Luffy last winning the round. When they got close enough to see the boat, they were devastated. Utterly and mercilessly destroyed.

A shadow cast upon everyone's faces, except for Luffy and Usopp, hid their eyes, but they didn't hide their dismay. Most turned cold, some stuttered, others stopped breathing, and the rest gaped in shock. Even Shanks, who knew many of Luffy's antics, and Benn, the most composed one in the whole ship, maybe the whole sea, had been swept away.

The ship resembled a fish, with a tail, fins, and even small outlets on the sides, which resembled gills. Luffy just laughed, and Usopp stared in awe. Yassop just had enough of this and spoke, "WHY AREN'T YOU SHOCKED USSOP?!" The said person just looked up in confusion

"Isn't that normal? I mean, the red force has a dragon head?" "I mean yes, but that's not the point!!" Yassop grabbed Ussop's sides, shaking him, "A ship shouldn't be a fish!!"  "Ahh- But we have one back at the village." Ussop countered

"What?" This time, everyone had been snapped out of the trance. "Yeah. The going Merry. That ship is a goat."

If this were a hospital, multiple heart monitors would have flattened simultaneously as a choir synchronizing for their last pitch. 

"Guys? guys?" Luffy turned back, sensing that the silence was a little too long. Suddenly, they seemed to return to reality, murmuring a few things before they dispersed. Luffy just looked at Usopp, hoping for an explanation, but got none.

Forgetting what had just happened, they were now at 'Luffy's arm's reach'. Notice how I said Luffy's arms reach? Luffy stretched his arm towards the ship, grabbed the second deck railing on the baratie, and got ready to launch himself.

"Shanks, I'm going ahead!" Luffy said, still holding on, waiting for Shanks' response. "Huh? How are you going to do that?" Shanks looked at Luffy curiously, and Luffy just laughed. He walked closer to see that Luffy had stretched his arm. 

He followed it and soon saw it was miraculously attached to the rails of the other ship. He was at a loss for words, not expecting Luffy to be able to stretch that far, but he didn't dwell on it much and instead focused on what he was about to do. 

"Luffy... are you going to launch yourself there?" he nods. "Over a sea of salt water?" Another nod. At this point, Luffy suddenly jumps up and lets his body retract. Successfully launching himself. 

"Ah. I can no longer be surprised." Shanks sighed and watched as Luffy landed perfectly, walked to the nearest door, opened it, and headed inside, but not before giving a little wave to him.

The scene was just as he remembered it when he first arrived, looking for a chef. Spiral stairs in the middle, an array of tables and chairs with glass vases one each and ornaments hanging on the walls or built in, which he learned when the cheater scum of a pirate.

He moved randomly, hoping to encounter either of his nakama. He didn't want to risk using his haki and collapse most of the random workers he could feel without it. Luckily, most of the second deck seemed empty, with everyone either outside or on the one below.

"Hello? OREWA MONKEY D. LUFFY. KAIZOKU ONI ORE WA OTOKO DA!" Luffy said. Careful enough not to shout but loud enough to alert anyone in rooms nearby. Which is what happened, and soon three doors opened, two on the left and one on the right

The heads popped out in unison, looking at Luffy in confusion, with apathy and curiosity, annoyance, and a mix of happy and disappointed expressions. In that order, Kuina is on the right side, wondering who would shout in the hallways like that, Zeff in the furthest door on the left, wondering why the supposed Luffy, who may be the same as what Sanji told him, is screaming his name and dream. 

Sanji in the same room felt annoyed, not taking a moment to register the situation, cursing whoever was screaming in the morning instead of working, and finally, Zoro, who was in the front room with Zeff and Sanji, felt proud and expected that from his captain, having a feeling this would happen, just like when they first met.

"OOHHH! ZORO! SANJI!" Luffy's arm stretched and wrapped around the two, pulling them towards him. Zeff and Kuina could only stare in blankness as their minds still tried to register the quite literally past five seconds of what happened.

Silently missing the action, they don't scream when that happens. Luffy had a big smile and wouldn't stop laughing. "Together one three."

"one,

two,

three-"

"1 hat, 2 legs, 3 swords."

The world seemed to stop moving for the trio. The weight of those words was a comforting cover that they relished in. Their last meeting was yesterday, but it seemed like their first. Just the three of them.

Luffy asking Zoro to be his first mate,

Luffy asking Sanji to be his cook,

Zoro asking Luffy to bear with his selfish dreams,

Sanji asking Luffy to forgive him,

It all felt like those important events were happening at the same, exact moment right now.

Unfortunately, times like these must come to an end. As the two who were still watching questioned what was going on, and even moved closer.

Yes, they admit that it was touching as they never saw the two they stayed with react that way, and wouldn't want to ruin it for anything... but the questions were too much, so they subconsciously moved close.

"Zoro/Squirt, who is this!?" Now they were releasing a storm of questions using the three further back. Luffy let go of Sanji and Zoro, pushing them forward to be the victim of their questions.

Sanji to Zeff and Zoro to Kuina, each grabbed their shoulders and shook them off any answers they got. "Let me go, then I'll talk old man!" Sanji had had enough, woke up the two from their action.

"Sorry..."

"Whew. Finally. Sanji had been let go of, and Zoro too. They spent a good minute or two stabilizing themselves and dusting off. Though they had nothing to dust off, it was just muscle memory.

"Old man, Kuina-chan, meet Luffy, our idiotic captain." As Sanji's hand gesture to Luffy, who was sitting on the floor, Zeff finally put a name to the face that Sanji had described, and Kuina just stayed in confusion, having never heard of this.

"And I'm gonna be king of the pirates!" Luffy added, pouting a little that Sanji forgot to add that. Kuina wasted no time and raised an arm to speak. "Uhm, excuse me? I still don't know who you are, and why is a kid younger than both Zoro and Sanji over here the captain? Should one of the two be captain? And why are you guys being pirates right now? You're barely teens! I know it's probably late to be asking, but still! And Mister Zeff! How can you agree with this? You, the adult her knock some sense into them! Wh-"

Kuina now fell into a spiral of questions, and the three didn't know what to do or say. She probably had these feelings and questions built up inside her for a while, and now released them.

"Should we stop her? We probably should?"

"How?"

"I don't know. Zoro? You should know something?"

"Huh!? Why me?"

"You stayed the longest with her brat."

"Yeah, Zoro. You telling me you know nothing?"

"S-Shut up! It's not like you guys have the experience either!"

And now Zeff was left the only spectator and mediator to the Kuina's endless questioning and the trio's sudden argument. Left with nothing, he did what he thought was best. What he does best.

He kicked the three with his wooden leg.

°。°。°。°。°。A few minutes later。°。°。°。°。°

Shanks and his party had now docked and received a warm welcome from the workers, which rubbed them the wrong way. Not to say that they aren't used to it in some island and all, but it was more of distant suspicious looks than happy hearty greetings.

Walking through the door, they caught sight of the famed baratie. The walls were a pastel pinkish violet with white rims, paired with green curtains and tiled floors that added authenticity. There were spiral stairs in the middle with built-in shelves filled with ornaments, tables arranged in a big long table as long as the room allowed, and doors to the left that led to the kitchen and to the right that led to possible restrooms. 

Many of the crew were awed by the look of an actual restaurant at sea. "What's wrong? If you are all simply amazed by this simple restaurant by the sea, how will you handle what you see on the grand line?"

Heads turned in the direction the voice came from, and they saw a Luffy sitting at a table eating appetizers, a blond to his left smoking a cigarette and smiling as he served the appetizer, and to the right, a green-haired boy drinking alcohol with a blue-haired girl trying to stop him.

"Why is there a kid smoking and another drinking?"

"OOHHH!!! SHANKS!! YOU MADE IT!"

Luffy looked up from his food and waved to Shanks and the rest, making Shanks give a nervous smile in response. He walked closer to Luffy as the rest of the crew took seats around the dining area. 

"I'm also here, Luffy! Don't forget about me! The great King Ussop won't allow it." "Ussop! shishishishi!" Luffy, in response, stretched his arm and pulled him towards him and settling him into a chair next to him.

"ahh! Warn me next time, Luffy! I wasn't prepared!" Everyone -except Kuina- laughed at that interaction, annoying Ussop more.

Some wanted to respond to the comment Zoro made, but had bad feelings about doing so. So they sucked it up and, at what appetizers, escaped Luffy's grasp. "So, anchor, care to explain?" "Expwin ut(explain what)?" Luffy responded by eating the last of the appetizer.

"How about starting with the question I asked?" Shanks now sat in the closet chair next to Luffy, which happened to be next to the blond mini chef. "Mmm... uhmm... Don know." Couldn't say he was surprised, but he still sighed, facepalming.

"Anyway, shanks! Meet my crew! This is Zoro -Luffy points at Zoro, who's on his third bottle already- he's the swordsman of my crew and my first mate! And this -He now pointed to the blond beside him, who was taking away the empty plates- Sanji! He's the chef in my crew and makes the best dishes in the world! Also, she is Zoro's friend. He pointed at Kuina as he ended introductions.

"At least address me by my name, Luffy!" "Kuni?" "NO!" Kuina was fuming as Luffy showed no interest in doing what she asked. "Give up, Kuina, He'll say your name right on day, and it'll be like that for the rest," Zoro said, pouring the alcohol into a cup and pushing it towards her.

"Have a drink." "NO!" Kuina immediately pushed the cup away, wanting nothing to do with underage drinking. "You know, you say a lot of no, right?" Luffy said in a questioning matter-of-fact manner. "That's cause everything you guys are doing isn't right!"

'She's right,' Shanks could only silently agree with her there, keeping in mind that he's most likely the reason. "Oi, Luffy! When are you gonna introduce me?" 'Ah, right. he doesn't know them like before.'

"Ussop, this is Zoro, Sanji, and a blue-haired girl. Zoro, Sanji, Blue-haired girl, this is Ussop." Luffy said one more time for Ussop's sake, which he was grateful for. "Wait/huh? Where's Sanji?"

*Clang* *clang* clang*

"Foods being served!" The person hitting the pan with a spatula said, silencing everyone. Normally, they would never comply with something like that. Neither the restaurant nor the pirates. But Luffy did something to them, affecting them a lot since it'll be their last meeting for years. 

They wanted this to go off without a hitch. So if they had to bear with the uncorfotableness of being treated like a celestial dragon, they would.

The chefs rolled out the door with trays of gourmet food waiting to be eaten. "We only have one rule-" Zeff spoke as he walked out the doors behind the last chef, the echo of his leg and booming voice catching all attention.

"Don't waste any food!"

...

"AYE AYE!!!"

Everyone raised a glass to that. Throwing comments like 'don't worry', 'chef, keep the food coming', 'Luffy's here!'. Smiles covered everyone's faces as laughter filled the air. Zeff huffed at the usual pirate behavior.

Party and drink like there's no tomorrow for any reason. It was one thing he missed from his pirate days. He soon dismissed the workers for the rest of the day and told them to party as well. "Not many chances like this will come along, enjoy it."

Hours into the banquet, and everyone, save for Luffy and the group, was adequately drunk. Benn, whose job was not to be drunk when everyone else is drunk, unfortunately, struck up a conversation.

"So, Kuina, what's a pretty lady like you traveling with a friend of Luffy?" It was a question that itched on his brain and a fair share of the others, too. "Well... I have a dream to reach. To do that, I need to go to the grandline."

He hummed in all-too-well understanding. Zeff, who was also not a drunk and listening in, chimed in. "So what is this dream you're tryina to reach?" "Huh? Oh... It's to be the world's strongest swordsman." 'Go ahead and laugh or disregard me... I'm used to it...'

"You're dream isn't something to laugh at," Luffy said with a serious face, catching her and the listeners of guard. "How did you-" "A dream is what makes you strong. Should anyone disrespect it, just beat them up and prove them wrong. And if you're not strong enough, I'll do that for you."

"Luffy is right. We'd never laugh at the dreams of anyone." Shanks said, suddenly sobering up. A chorus of hums and cheers came around to that, each a form of agreement and motivation hidden behind the drunken slurs.

Kuina was in disbelief. Her non-existent but heavy shackles are broken by a chance meeting with a boy much younger than her and Zoro. She didn't know how to feel. She didn't even realise the tears streaming down her shock-filled face.

"Kuina-san. Please allow me to wipe away those tears of yours, along with any fear you have." Sanji was already by her side with a handkerchief on standby. Zeff and Zoro hit him at the same time, annoyed by his gimmicks.

"hahahaha!" The scene in front of her was enough for her to understand the meaning of Luffy and Shanks' words. Even the other unspoken ones from the rest. Everyone joined in two laughing away at the fight between Zoro and Sanji.

Unbeknownst to anyone, Luffy watched the scene with melancholy lacing his face.

°。°。°。°。°。Hours later 。°。°。°。°。°

The dining hall was now carpeted with the sleeping bodies of Pirates and chefs alike. And the plates had been licked clean as if they had never been used. Three bodies had been missing from that scramble as they headed outside the moment they had a chance.

"Roger, you there?" Sanji asked the open air on the top of the baratie. The trio knew that he was here, but not where exactly. They had questions that needed a discussion and answers now that they're together like this.

"What's the matter?"  Roger suddenly appeared in front of them in a mist that wasn't there before, frightening them. 'Not every day you see a ghost or Roger materializing in front of them,' they thought, sweatdropping. They were all used to his always conveniently being there and not seeing him appear before their eyes.

Roger questioned the silence and finally realized why. "Hahaha, like the new trick? This is how I always appear after coming straight from Merry's world." They all nodded, and Luffy looked like he had a revelation.

"SUGOIII!" "RIGHT LUFFY? Wonder what else I can do?"

Zoro quickly recovered and spoke. "Back to topic, we need your help. It involves our short talk from when we were waiting for Shanks.-

°。°。°。°。°。Flashback to hours ago 。°。°。°。°。°

"I forgot to mention this yesterday, but I've been hallucination for a while now," Zoro said, following Sanji, who leads them through the baratie. "Oh really? Me too, surprisingly. It stopped a few weeks back, though," Sanji said as they took a turn in the halls.

"What's hallujition?" Luffy asked genuinely, not knowing what it was. "Hal-lu-ci-na-ti-on Luffy. It's where you see images, hear noises, or feel stuff that isn't real or normal. It happens to the person alone, so it's easy to spot."

"You gotta dumb it down." 

"Oh, right. It's when you see meat, but when you go to it, it's no longer there, or you can't grab it, or when you hear a voice of someone but can't see them." They were now taking the stairs down to the dining hall.

"Wah!? That's scary! Can't eat the meat?" Luffy paled at the thought, making Zoro and Sanji laugh. "Back to topic, though, what were your hallucinations about Zoro?" "A weird, distorted air has been following me while I trained."

"Yeah, that's very weird and unsettling." They were finally at the dining hall and had sat at a random table. "Shishishi Zoro, you're cursed!"

"Luffy, this is no time to be joking around. I'll cut you in half if you continue!" Sanji couldn't help but agree, making Luffy mumble a sorry and how he won't interfere anymore.

*sigh* "What are yours about cook?" "I keep hearing distorted voices, especially when I was sailing towards your island." Luffy was now gourging on appetizers, leaving the convo between the two. He didn't have any of the 'halucinajions' they are talking about. He didn't even think anything was weird, to be honest, so it's useless.

"When the day ends, should we ask Roger? we need to let him know where together." Sanji suggested, remembering the talk he had with him once, some time ago, "He might already know, seeing as he led us here after all." Zoro rebuked.

'True' was what they thought of at the same time. "Either way, I think it's fine either way now that we're together!" Luffy said, making Zoro roll his eyes and Sanji facepalm.

"Shishishishi!"

Though nothing could be done to hide the small smiles on their faces

°。°。°。°。°。Back to Present。°。°。°。°。°

"So we'd like to ask you if you could help us find out why the cook and I here have been hallucinating and what it could mean." Zoro finished. "I see... Well, for Sanji, I can answer now, but Zoro's case needs more time to confirm." 'And if it's who I think it is, I have to know how, why, and what he's doing here.'

"Huh? Spill it out then." "It was the sea kings' voices." "What?" They all stared at Roger as if he had grown three heads. Even Luffy, who wouldn't understand, gets the severity of the situation.

"Wait, wait, let me explain! *sigh* So you see, when I was leading Sanji to Shimotsuki Island to get Zoro, incidentally, the sea beasts were following him and talking about him and all. At first, I thought nothing of it till he made a comment I couldn't ignore-

'The voices are back.' "

Sanji butted in to confirm he did say that, increasing the mystery further. "I did say that... I remember that after that day, the voices did stop as well..."

"That's because I told them to be more cautious when they talk near you," Sanji hummed as he took it all in surprisingly well, which Luffy did question about that. " I know that I'm not going crazy and all due to my being the cause, so it's somewhat comforting. What I truly wanna know is why I can hear them? I don't have conqueror's haki."

"I suspect that's because you stayed very close to Luffy, gaining a small portion of the ability, or it's a side effect of the time travel. I'm leaning more towards the latter than the former." Roger finished it, all it finally made sense to Sanji. 

"I'm now getting why Luffy hasn't said anything about this. It's cause it's normal for him." Thank goodness Sanji is the smartest on here. "Mhmm *Aggressive nodding* after Fishman Island, I could hear them talking more and more. Shishishi, maybe now you can talk to Zunesha." Luffy said, mumbling the last part.

Luffy couldn't help the sparkle in his eyes and him biting his lip to keep a wrong-time-word from coming out. He decided to stay out of the conversation till talked to. Sanji had closed his eyes, absorbing the information, and Zoro was blank till he spoke. 

"I'm happy that it's a minor side effect and can be dealt with, but that doesn't explain the newer and old questions like why I can't hear them too, or the figure I saw and sensed that time." "Zoro has a point. We solved one anomaly, but what about the other?"

"For the first part, I'd like to assume it's a coincidence and pure luck, and Sanji got the short end of the stick and became unfortunate. For the second part, there's still more to the story." They both indicated for him to continue.

"After I was done dealing this the sea kings and we got to your village, Zoro, I sensed the ghost of another person." "What?" Zoro and Sanji said at the same time. "Haha yeah, I know! I had the same reaction."

"It's not a funny thing! Uh, it's something with you D's, I swear." Sanji, done with Rogers' behavior. He couldn't help it when he took a cigarette and started smoking it quickly. "So whose ghost was it? Is it from the previous life, or did I always have a ghost following me?"

"Wouldn't have Brook noticed it?" This time, Luffy spoke, remembering -and reminding everyone else- that Brook is dead. "The idiots are right for once. It must be one that came back with us, and probably someone who died before we went to sea.

"Yes. That's why I'm not a hundred percent on his situation. You hinted it was a person you've never met, and I think that maybe the case for personal reasons." "It's someone you once knew?"

"Perhaps. But I get the feeling we'll find out sooner or later." They all nodded and soon fell into silence. "Well, we should probably go to sleep now with the rest." Zoro agreed, and they both said bye to Roger.

Turning around, they spotted Luffy, who was sleeping in a star position on the floor. They each went to one side of him and carried him inside to a proper bed.

°。°。°。°。°。In the morning。°。°。°。°。°

Ten o'clock had just passed, and only a few handfuls of people were up. Half were the staff were and the other half were the red-haired pirates. The ones asleep were on the floor, table, and chairs. Few were on the stairs, railing, and somehow hanging.

Zeff stared at the scene, displeased. Unlike the pristine look of the restaurant a mere twelve hours ago, it looked like it had seen better days. The floors were stained and various shades of brown to black, and patches of questionable colours that were hard to tell apart, with the bodies that peacefully slept there.

The wall had still retained its cleaners to a degree but was riddled with gun shots, sword scratches, and fist impacts. Zeff cursed out at everyone who did that but knew no one would tell the story. The curtains had either been shredded on their poles or removed and taken to other places. He sighs, now knowing how some are sleeping in the air.

The cherry on top was how the ornaments on the walls and shelves had been switched, and the secret weapon compartments open for the world to see. Zeff wanted to look away, but couldn't; he wanted to curse out at everyone and hit them, but couldn't.

Like everyone awake, he was still suffering the aftereffects. "Sorry about the mess. Once they wake up, I'll make sure they clean up and get the shipwright to fix the walls." Benn said to Zeff, appearing with cold water and some medicine he found in the kitchen.

Zeff just grunted, taking the medicine. "I just wanna say thank you on behalf of everyone. Especially the kids. You might have guessed, but this was more for them than us." Benn said, checking on Shanks.

Zeff figured that was the case with what Sanji told him. It was the only explanation that made the most sense. "Take it easy till the throbbing goes. By lunchtime, these drunkards would be awake." Benn said, patting his shoulder.

"Hah. Guess I'd better get cooking then." Zeff stood up and left for the kitchen. "*Sighs* What part of taking it easy didn't he get?" Benn walked to the kitchen, which was also where most of the awake people were. They were either vomiting in the sink, cooling themselves, or looking for medicine.

He saw the doctor and the cook of the crew helping and looking around. Further back, near the freezers and pantries, Kuina was standing by the doors.

"Head chef... how nice of you to be awake..." One of the chefs said, having a solemn face. Zeff stared at him intently, making the poor guy shiver. He looked around and saw everyone looking avoiding gazes.

"What happened?" Silence. "Well, speak up! I may have a headache right now, as you all, but I'll make sure you guys don't recover!" He emphasized his point by hitting his wooden leg on the floor.

"WE RAN OUT OF FOOD!" Kuina quickly said, fearing as much as everyone but still chose to take the hit. Zeff stood frozen in silence, his headache now gone and replaced. "What?" "And that's not all, head chef. The culprit is..."

Zeff -and now Benn- took the hint when they stopped mid-sentence. They walked up to Kuina and looked inside the open doors to see Luffy sleeping in the middle of scrap packing, non-edible parts, and bones.

"..."

"It's now making sense why Sanji was concerned and meticulous with rations and why many of you said not to worry about food yesterday since 'Luffy's' here..."

"Sorry. That's our anchor for you. We usually have locks on our fridge and a guard in front of it while we travel with him. We must have forgotten to do so amid the fun yesterday." Lucky said, trying to ease up tensions.

"Uhm. That's the thing. we have locks on the fridge that only the cooks specifically can access, and we locked that after we brought out the food yesterday." A chef said in a low voice behind everyone. 

"The lock doesn't look broken, nor does it look forcefully opened... the only other explanation would be that someone saw him wanting food or he asked for food, and they opened the lock for him." 

"Ugh. Which one of you took pity on him?" A new voice emerged, and everyone turned to see Sanji. "How long have you been there?" "Long enough to hear that someone let Luffy into the food reserves."

" 'Pologies, we'll give you what we have in the red force to compensate," Hongo said as he carried Luffy out. "No worries. I knew this would happen, so I made a backup reserve in the ship we use for shopping and another below deck." 

Sanji said, smiling at himself, proud of his work. "The fact that you did this and all and know him this well is kinda...-"

"creepy"

"Wha-! Let's hear you say that again when you learn that only I can open the back-up food!" Sanji's face was now red while he busted out there to the deck. The doors banged behind him walking up many of the sleeping people.

"Let's wait till he calms down," Benn said, feeling sorry for the poor guy.

"Huh? What's going on with Sanji?"

"OH NOW YOU WAKE UP?!!!"

*THWACK*

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.

.

Everyone was now awake and groaning at their state. Kuina was passing around water alongside Zoro, who was also up and fine.

"How's a kid like you doing fine after drinking as much as everyone else?" Shanks whined, seeing how he didn't even look sluggish at the slightest. "Heh. Guess we'll never know," the said person responded with a smirk, making everyone around groan or retch more.

"Shishishi! Told you my crew is strong, shanks!" Shanks just rolled his eyes. "I didn't think you meant it in this sense-" Shanks mumbled just as Benn came from the kitchen alongside Sanji, with both of them having cigarettes hanging loose on their lips.

"Breakfast or lunch, whatever you prefer, is being prepared, so you guys gotta straighten up and clean up after last night." Many booed at Benn's words as Sanji in the background pulled out cleaning supplies.

"*Sighs* Does it look like I'm asking? I mean, be real here; look at the mess and damage you all caused. Especially you, Captain! You should be lucky they aren't asking for anything more or compensation."

"Yes, Mom."

"What did you just call me?"

"Yes, Vice-Captain/Benn!"

"Good."

°。°。°。°。°。One cleaning and Cooking session later。°。°。°。°。°

"Food is served, Bon Appétit," the chefs said, sitting down to eat as well. Everyone had chicken noodle soup as a main and other smaller serving on the side. 

The ship looks cleaner and better with the floors now mopped spotless and all the fabrics replaced with new ones. The scars on the wall were patched up but could easily be spotted from the rest, as they didn't have the paint to paint over them.  The ornaments were neglected as no one remembered where they had originally been.

 "So what's the plan after this?" Zeff asks Shanks who raise his bowl of soup with his hand to drink whatever is left. "Well, after this, we plan on starting our journey to the Grandline. We've spent too much time here and have already finished most of what we needed."

Zeff hummed as he went ahead and finished his food. Minutes later, everyone was done and preparing to depart. Zeff and Snaji did a sweep around the whole restaurant to make sure everything is in perfect(acceptable) order.

"Everything is in good condition. Do you guys have enough food?" Sanji asked as the crew loosened the ropes and got on board their ship. "Yup, we got enough." 

"Guess this is goodbye..." Ussop said to his father, visibly sad. Yassop could tell and crouched to his level. "It's not goodbye, it's see you later. Become a great pirate of the sea, and someday we'll meet again. You're not alone; you have Luffy, remember?"  

"You're right!" I'll become a great warrior of the sea and meet with you one day!" Ussop, now with a newfound motivation, no longer looked sad. Yassop boarded, and now it was only Shanks left.

"Make sure you keep your promise, alright? Keep it safe." Luffy laughed at that. His usual grin and brightness radiated off of him, but you could feel the sincerity and confidence. "I will. That's what we promised."

"You're right. Well then, see you someday, King of the pirates." With that, Shanks turned back and boarded the ship, ordering everyone to set sail immediately. Everyone started shouting and waving goodbye as the ship got further and further away.

One by one, everyone went back inside the baratie, only leaving the monster trio, Kuina, and Ussop.

"Are you sure it's okay to say goodbye like that?"

"...Yup! Whatever happens in the future from now on, we'll face it head-on."

"It's just as the captain says."

"We'll be beside you all the way, Luffy!"

"A-And don't forget the great warrior of the sea! I'll help you guys because I'm nice like that."

"Shishishishi! ALRIGHT! LET'S EMBARK ON OUR JOURNEY!" 

Chapter Text

|Testing Roger's Limits.|

.

"So, Roger, how far can you go?" Zoro had asked Roger, with just the two of them. "Well, you need to be clearer." Zoro hummed, putting his hands in a thinking position for a good minute.

"I mean, can you go anywhere in the world, or is it restricted to some distances around us?" Roger released an 'oh' now understanding the question. "Perhaps I can, but it's hard to say..."

"How so?" "Well, Shimotsuki Island, Luffy's Island, and the Baratie are in the shape of a triangle, should you connect them. So is it that I'm restricted to that 'triangle' you guys make? Or a circular radius around you?"

"That is hard to say, I think it's the radius one. Too bad we don't have Robin; she would have the answer." *sighs* "Well, it's not a total loss! The height and depth I can travel are not affected! I can even go to the bottom of the sea if you need me!"

Zoro is now lit up with new interest. "Does that mean you can save Luffy if he falls overboard!?"

"...."

*Cue 'And I look at him and he looks at me' song*

"I'm a ghost, remember? It is beyond me to teach anything."  

Zoro lost interest. "Oh, right... wait-" Zoro is gaining interest. "Why not put that to the test?"

'He's just as bad as Luffy!'

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|Gift shopping with shanks|

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One day in Syrup Village, three men were wandering the shops of the island. "What do you think he'll like, Benn, Yassop?" Shanks asked his two other companions for the day.

"Don't know. Don't have a kid."

"Not sure, never spent time with my kid."

"Well, at least you're kid has materialistic desires!" Shank retorted, making Yassop mumble an 'oh yeah' underneath his breath. "Now, now, why don't we go to a pawn shop or wherever they sell their trinkets and gifts? Yassop, lead the way, please."

Arriving at the store, Shanks and Benn were amazed at how much stuff was here for a small island. The old owner at the counter just huffed and gave his story; clearly used to it. "My family is a collector of sought-after items and took everything that interested them in the East Blue. My old body no longer needs to keep any of this, and thus I opened this stall."

"Thanks! We'll be looking around." After Yassop responded, he and Shanks went to different sides of the store while Benn sat on an empty chair by the counter.

*ONE HOUR LATER*

"Benn, I need some insight." The man in question looked up to see Yassop holding an array of stuff, and Shanks in the background had half his upper body stuck in a barrel.

"Which of these do you think Ussop would like the most? They all pirate-y stuff with some specifically from the island." Benn nodded as he looked at what he brought one by one. "From what I've seen and read, give him something from the island trinkets."

"Oh, thanks!" Yassop left to return all the other trinkets and narrow down his search. "*Hic* Bennnnn-" Now, Shanks had appeared on the floor on the verge of tears. "What do I get him?" He just stared, a shade of disappointment on his face. 

"Get off the floor and stop crying."

*THREE HOURS LATER*

"Alright! I've chosen!" Yassop said as he went to the counter. He placed down his chosen gift and quickly took out his money pouch. "How many owners?" "For this? Hmm, three thousand beris."

"Okay!" Yassop quickly filtered out three thousand beris and placed them on the countertop. "Ah! And how much for a box and wrapping?" "Together is eight hundred beris. Do you want me to put it together for you?"

"No, I'll do it myself." The owner nodded and gave everything to Yassop. "At least one of you is done," Benn said, taking a puff from his nth cigarette of the hour. "It's getting a night out in an hour or two soon, so I would encourage you to help your friend out." The owner said, looking out to the almost setting sun.

"we tried and are, but... the person he's gifting isn't exactly keen on physical gifts, and his interests are Nakama and meat. Captains probably worried that if he doesn't find him something so special that he can't eat, the receiver would lose it the moment it's out of sight."

"Then why not an accessory or a piece of cloth like a bandana? Surely that would work well, right?" As the owner suggested, Shanks stayed quiet and still contemplating his words.

"One of my family had a saying that went somethin' like so, 

'The gift itself doesn't matter. It's what it makes you feel when receiving it or using/seeing it. Just like marriage, a ring is given as a gift or presented as a bond, but couples don't wear it every day, yet they feel immense happiness just from remembering that day. Simply by looking at the other or their ring finger.' 

He was a love-sick fellow, so I wouldn't take his full words into perspective, but he was right on some parts." The owner finished as Yassop nodded, agreeing with his relative's words. He was married after all.

"I see now... Boss, give me some of those gift boxes and wrapping paper." Shank dashed to the counter with a new, determined look on his face. "Alright. Same as your friend, eight hundred beris. "Here! BYE!"

Shanks placed his whole money pouch on the counter, grabbed the wrapping materials, and dashed out the door in what could only be assumed to be the ship's direction. 

"..."

"Looks like he knows what he wants, "Yassop said, staring at the dust cloud. "Finally." Benn just rolled his eyes and snuffed out the cigarette. He and Yassop now walked to the door, snapping the owner out of his daze.

"Wait- his money!"  

"Keep it."

Back to Shanks, he had now reached the red force and climbed on, scaring some of the roaming crewmates. He went to his cabin, shut the door behind him, and fell panting. All the adrenaline was now gone, and he needed a breather for his muscles.

Finally stabilizing, he now stood up and placed what he was carrying on the desk. And walked to a chest between it and a closet. It had a little dust but had shown recent use. He bent and started going through it to find something.

The gift he now thought was perfect.

He finally found it and raised it high against the light to check its state. "... still good. Heh. Can't believe this thing I kept for many years would be a gift. I should clean it up; make it more presentable."

Shanks had the perfect gift.

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|Grave|

.

It was the middle of the night, and Luffy had snuck out of Ussop's room to leave the house. He made sure no one was there to watch or stop him as he left. Luffy walks in a random direction, but opposite to the village and the red force.

He had remembered what happened when they almost reached Syrup Island, and he had a 'Panic attack,' or so Hongo said. He felt he still needed to go through with what he said, and that's why he snuck out.

He walked barefoot for some minutes until he reached a cliff. Luffy looked around, and his mind started to register where exactly he was.

"This is where I met him for the first time... and where we departed together for the first time... I should make the grave here," he quickly got to work finding some wood, stones, and vines to make his grave.

He tied the wood with vines tightly into a cross shape and put it aside. After some contemplation of how the grave should be, he decided on placing it on the edge of the cliff, which had a good vantage point.

'Exactly how a sniper likes it.'

He dug deep, making sure the hole was deep enough for the cross to stay firmly rooted. He put it in and covered the spaces, taking the rocks, he placed them around in a circle, completing the grave.

He stood up and wiped the soil from his hands, careful not to get it on his clothes or face. Luffy faced the grave and clasped his hands, paying respect.

"Goodbye, Ussop."

.

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|test tester zeff|

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Sanji: Hey, old man! Can you try this out for me?

Zeff: What is it?

Sanji: It's a dish from a recipe I got from THAT island.

Zeff: That island? ...Whatever, just give it here.

Sanji passed Zeff a covered dish. He removed the cover and saw a soup. He inhaled the scents and took in its design. 

Zeff: Smells like a cream soup with mushrooms, and looks like you added chicken chunks. The overall appearance isn't any different from what normal soup is like, brat. Why want me to taste it?

Sanji: You'll know when you eat it, old ma-

Sanji didn't finish that sentence, and a wooden leg collided with his skull. Zeff took the spoon that was brought for him and scooped some of the soup, bringing it to his mouth. He soon took the soup in and took a moment to test its flavours.

Zeff: !

Sanji: So, is it good?

Zeff: Why is it sweet?!

Sanji: Honestly, I wanna know why too *sighs* I had others try it and they said the same thing. Back to square one, I guess. 

Sanji now took the soup from the confused Zeff and carried it away while eating it. Zeff noticed that he didn't bat an eye or contort his face at it, striking him with realization.

"Once in a while, the brat can make odd, abominable dishes..."

Chapter Text

|Bacchina's days|

.

After the red-haired pirates, Luffy and Usopp, left, Bacchina was left alone with a new vitality. After spending a day in bed due to the shock of yesterday's departure, she's now well-rested to engage in not-too-strenuous activity.

"What should I do today? It's the first time in a while I've been this healthy and-" '-away from Ussop.' Bacchina questions feeling slightly sad, but quickly shakes it off. She walked around the empty house. "I'll clean up first, then maybe walk around the vicinity."

With newfound energy, she quickly set to the task. Starting with the kitchen and sitting room, which were the cleanest, to the bedrooms, and finally the remaining parts. She made sure to take breaks in between rooms, remembering her family and the doctor's words.

Yassop: Once I'm gone, please take it easy. You just recovered. Trust in Hongo's capabilities and... take it easy. Alright?

Ussop: Listen to the doctor and don't forget to take your medicine! I won't be here to help you if you fall sick again...

Hongo: Aside from the sickness itself, you've been bedridden for some time now; don't move more than the bare minimum to get your body back in order. That means no extensive exercise, no heavy lifting, and no running or jogging! While you're at it, avoid anything that may trigger possible allergies and limit your time and proximity to plants, dusty areas, and strongly smelling objects.

She could go on and on about the concern they gave her, but each time she responded with a smile. She decided to forgo the second part of her plan earlier and stay inside. She went into the kitchen and whipped herself a quick serving of hot chocolate.

She headed to her room and sat on the bed, grabbing a book from the bedside table. It was a photo album that had the newly made memories from the last few days. She and Shanks made it after the short episode of finding Ussop and Luffy cuddling.

He himself had a copy of it and included some 'exclusive' photos he saw of Yassop from Bachina's. The cover page featured a picture of both of them posing with the rest of the crew members, oblivious to the camera.

She giggled at remembering how he begged her to make it to the cover page. She took a sip of her drink and opened a random page. 

Ready to lose herself in memories.

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|The first time, everybody is not prepared|

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WARNING: For any of my male readers or anyone generally, this part takes about menstruation(I used the word period(s) though). While keeping all possible parties in mind, I briefly explain it and try not to get too deep. 
So if you're good with surface-level information, then go ahead. If not, you are free to skip.

.

Today wasn't Kuina's day.

Imagine this: you wake up one Saturday morning wanting to laze around, but instead you wake up with abnormal abdominal pain that could kill you if you relax or move.

Yup. That's what Kuina is feeling this fine morning.

Kuina woke up with bad stomach pain and a headache. She couldn't think straight about what was happening, but she knew it was out of the norm. Using most of her strength, she stood up and went to the kitchen in a sluggish walk, hoping to get some medicine and a bonus if one of the helpers was there. 

Luckily, with it being a Saturday, not many students were there to see her in this state and embarrass her. Reaching the kitchen, she slid the door open to find four workers restocking and deep cleaning the place.

"Hello miss Kuina." They all said, doing a little bow. "I told you Kuina is fine, didn't I? Just because my father is your employer doesn't mean you also treat me like you do him." She sighed, disappointed but not surprised at the same conversation she had with them.

Had she not been overcome with pain, she'd have argued longer, but now, she just wanted her drugs. "Anyways, could I please get a glass of water?" Kuina asked, turning her back on them as she looked into the medicine cabinet behind the door. Searching for stomachache and headache relievers

(A/N: Even if this is a special, I still want to keep it in the bounds of the One Piece world, so I won't name specifics(same for the pads). But if you need to know, ibuprofen helps with both, and cyclopam helps with the cramps. I googled)

"Uhh Mi- *Ahem* K-Kuina...?" 

"Yes?" 

"Are you on your period?" 

"What?!"

Kuina snapped her head back at them as they quickly came over to her, one with the water she had asked for. "It's just that, Miss! You're bleeding through your pants down there!" Kuina wordlessly followed their eyes and looked to see a patch of blood on her pants.

She went blank and kept staring at the blood for a while, not sure how to act. "Oh..."

"OH! WHAT DO I DO?! THIS IS MY FIRST TIME AND I-" 

"Miss/Kuina! Calm down. Deep breaths. breathe in- *Inhale* breath out- *Exhale* good. We know how scary your first can be, it comes when you're never prepared, we've experienced it too, so we'll help you," The head, Sayuri, said, reasoning with her.

Kuina looked up and saw only two of the four giving her soft smiles. "Tina has gone to start a warm bath for you while Helen has gone to make sure there's no blood on your futon and get you a new pair of clothes." Sayuri, disguised as Ai, passed her water and told Kuina to drink the medicine she had gotten a few minutes prior.

"T-Thank you..." Kuina mumbled as she did as suggested. It wasn't much, but she was starting to feel a bit better. "Since this is your first, I guess you don't have a pad or any necessities of the sort?" Ai asked, but they all knew the answer.

She didn't wait for one either. "I'll  let you borrow the packs I have on me till you can get some yourself." She smiled softly, heading to a room designated for staff members, where the pads she had were. 

Helen and Tina came back, and Helen had  Kuina's futon in her hands, and Tina had Kuina's clean clothes in a small laundry basket plus some soaps, a towel, and a washcloth/scrub."The bath is ready, and I've prepared the items needed." They must have met up before entering.

"Oh. Ah-" Kuina fell into a loss for words, touched by the situation and something else. "I'm truly grateful for what you are doing, but I... can't..." "Don't worry, miss. Take your time," They all said, bringing a sense of normality Kuina needed as a boost.

"I'm not sure how to use a pad... I mean, I know how to use one, but never actually used one?" "Don't worry, once Ai comes back, I'll show you how to properly do one depending on the kind she brings. We'll also go over what's best during you're period after your bath."

Selena finished on time, and Ai came back. "I'm back and I have the pads! They're the winged kind as well." Sayuri nodded and stretched her arm out to take the pad. She then put it in front of Kuina and started her brief lecture on how to use it. 

"-Align it with the lines over hear with the folded line of the pad. Then place it after removing the bottom paper so it sticks. Next, remove the one on the wings, then make it go under the underwear like that. Now you're ready to use the pad!"

The lecture ended, and Kuina was the happiest she had been the whole day. Living with boys had many downsides, and this was one of them; overcoming that challenge, This challenge, made her feel like she won a sword match.

"I can't thank you all for the help you've given." Kuina stayed with a bow. Helen responded for everyone, "No need to thank us, we're all women at the end of the day, and we help each other! Now, go take that bath before it gets cold!"

Kuina did as instructed and left feeling better than when she got there.

She no longer had any pain.

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|Kaya the storyteller|

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"What do I start with?" Kaya asked herself as she sat at her desk, staring at the book Ussop gave her. She recalled when he appeared at her door to give it to her, she wasn't ready but knew the day would come, and was still frightened.

"Kaya! I- I wasn't expecting you to answer... how the weather...?" Kaya stared at Ussop, then started laughing so hard she clutched her sides and hunched over. "Wha- whats so funny!" "Haha! That's- that's how you greet somebody? I'm wheezing!"

Ussop had a blush on his face; even his melanin couldn't hide it. All early shyness was gone, and he now started stumbling for anything to stop her from laughing. It took a while, but Kaya finally stopped, whipping the last of her tears away. "So, what is the true reason for your visit?"

 "I need to tell you something, I've been meaning to do so for some time," Ussop said. "What is it?" Kaya asked as she fully stepped out, giving Ussop her full attention.

"The thing is... I'm leaving the island. Today." "WHAT? Why now and so suddenly?" she shouted, but luckily no one could hear it."I know it's sudden, but...there's someone I want to follow to the seas, just like my father."

Ussop said while looking behind his shoulder, making Kaya move to see it as well. 'A boy wearing a straw hat?' She looked at the figure, then back at Usopp's face. She could see the admiration and happiness in his eyes. Hints of pride and something else accompanied them.

She couldn't say anything to deter him. It would be an insult. "Alright, I understand. I guess this is goodbye, huh?" Usopp now turned to stare back at her, giving an unsteady smile. 

"It is. But! Here you go! A gift from me before I leave," he said, putting the box and flowers in front of him in clear view. "That's sweet of you... Can I open it?" Ussop muttered a yes as he shyly looked to the side.

Kaya did her best not to tear the wrapping as she opened the box. "You don't have to be that careful," Ussop said after recovering from before. "I want and have to. It's from you after all."  Ussop was now on the verge of falling.

Not in love, though. he fell long ago. he was on the verge of crying a waterfall at her words. And just when he recovered, he was now in his world, trying to hold the tears back and be manly in front of Kaya. 

"A book?"

He snapped out of his consciousness and looked Kaya straight in the eyes. "Yes. It's a little selfish of me to ask this when it's supposed to be a gift, but could you record my adventures?"

"Can I ask why?" 

"Well, it's because... uhm." and now Ussop was hesitant but still gave an answer. She deserved as much. *Sigh* "Ahem! It's because I don't want you to get lonely without me and my tales when I'm gone!"

Kaya proceeded with his words and froze. 'Even now he's still worried.' Not helping it, Kaya released a giggle, which stumbled Usopp. "WHAT ARE YOU LAUGHING FOR THIS TIME!?" He couldn't help the tone his voice came out in.

Another five minutes went by, and the two calmed down.

"So I write crazy stories about you?"

"The more absurd the better!

"Even if they aren't real?"

"They'll be real to us."

"Then, I, Kaya, humbly accept to be your storyteller!"

"I'm glad to have you write my story."

Ussop finished smiling at Kaya, about to say goodbye, but was beaten by the next thing Kaya did. She kissed him on the cheek and quickly retreated, grinning wider. " See you next time, My Protagonist!"

Kaya finished her recollection of events that day, unknowingly mumbling the last word Usopp said. 

"You too, My Storyteller..."

Kaya now sat up straight and regained focus. The short trip down Memory Lane gave her motivation and ideas. Filling her with a form of vitality that finally-

She picked up her pen and wrote.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, Usopp, and Kuina remained on the fin deck as everyone went in. Luffy stretched his arms and caught everyone in a group hug.  "Wah- let me go, Luffy!" Kuina shouted as she struggled.

"Don't bother. You get used to it." Zoro said with Sanji agreeing. "What about Usopp?" They now turned to him and sighed at the memories he just had, "I slept with the guy in the same hammock in a tighter wrap. This is much lighter."

Zoro and Sanji nodded, remembering all the times he rocket-lunched the two. For the nth time today, Kuina just sighed again, "I'm afraid of what's to come in the future now." "Oh, speaking about the future, what do we do now?" Ussop asked the question that was silently plaguing them all.

"That's a little early. We did come from one heck of a party yesterday night and minutes prior met each other for the first time." Sanji said while Luffy released them, eagerly nodding in agreement.

'NICE SAVE!' Zoro and Luffy thought.

He and Zoro were happy that Sanji had deterred that talk, since even they hadn't planned it precisely. Or planned at all... Guess this is payback for following a captain who acts without thinking things through. 

"You're right," both Kuina and Ussop said. "Then, how about we rest today and then start getting together tomorrow? Kuina suggested, earning confused gazes. "Rest?" "Yes! Did you guys just forget about last night, and Sanji mentioned it?" Zoro and Sanji showed no change on their faces, while the other two males changed from thought to realization, then to shock.

"Ohhh/ makes sense/ yeah/ forgot about that."

 "Besides, it'll be evening soon. The sun is showing signs of setting," she pointed to the sun, which was now emitting an orangish hue over the sea. "Wow. Hard to believe that Shanks just set sail a few minutes ago."

"How about watching the sunset together, then we go in?" Luffy suggested his voice was missing the lucklaster excitement it has. The four quickly noticed and said nothing. Just silently agreeing and sitting on the edge beside him.

"You brats gonna come inside or do I lock you out?" Zeff spoke moments after the sun disappeared. He was at the door, swinging a key, ushering(threatening) the children inside like a mother hen.

"COMIN'!" Quickly, they got up and started walking in one by one, allowing Zeff to lock the door. "By the way, that crew crewmates left something for you two," he said, turning to point at Luffy and Usopp. 

"Shanks and the crew left something for us? What do you think it could be, Ussop!?" Luffy was now sparkling with excitement about the possible gifts. "Hehe! My old man must have gotten me something cool!"

"psh! I bet mine's cooler!" "wanna bet?" "You're on!" Zeff wondered why they would fight over gifts, but he didn't dwell on it. The other, more mature cast stayed silent. "It's in the rooms you'll be staying in upstairs. Have the brat lead you." Zeff was now walking away, not waiting for a reply.

"Who are you calling a brat? *Sighs* Let's go. Kuina-chan, marimo, please follow as well." Sanji led the way and stopped in front of the door that led to where the two would stay and where their gifts were as well.

They opened the door, looking around, finally appreciating the room which they never had the chance at last night. It was a simple bunk bed on the far left. A closet is located at the end, slightly behind the door, and on the right side, a desk is positioned by the window. 

Luffy and Usopp went in as the other three stayed out. "Should we go in?" "Of course not! If they want us there, they'll ask." "Whatever you say, kuina-chan!" "Oi- you got heart eyes..." After that short argument, they soon left for their rooms, closing the door behind them

Back with Luffy and Usopp, they had now seen the gifts that were on the desk with notes on each. "Ohhh! Quick! Which one is mine?!" " Be patient, Luffy! Here, read the note first that has your name on it."

Ussop passed the box with Luffy's name to him, and he then grabbed his. "What does it say?" Luffy stayed quiet, making Ussop glance suspiciously, which he quickly shrugged off. He unfolded the letter meant for him and started to read it.

'Dear Ussop,

*The first paragraph has been scribbled and is now illegible*

Let me start again. I'm not good at writing letters (seeing as I never wrote you or your mom any to begin with), and I'm not sure what to write, so I'll say(write) it straight up front. By now, you should have seen the gift I left, and surprise! It's Google's! *more scribbled and illegible writings*

Anyway, I never knew what I'd get you at first or even considered the idea of gifting you something, but everyone - especially Bacchina- said I should, and I caved in. I hope you like them as a snipper and my son, as it took me hours to choose them (shorter than Shanks though).

I'm not sure what to write anymore, so I guess that will be all. I'll try to write more to you and your mother, but you should know how it'll be now that you're a pirate. Become a great pirate of the sea, okay? I know you(and Luffy) can do it.

Yours truly,

Your father, Yassop.'

A tear trickled down his cheek unbeknownst to him. he took a moment to allow the contents and feelings to pass through to him. Once he was ready, he turned to where he had left Luffy, only to see he wasn't there.

"Luffy?" Turning around, he saw that Luffy was sleeping. Hugging the letter and the gift securely. 'Guess he was really tired today.' Ussop thought while he walked closer to the bed. He had placed the letter and googles on the desk next to her other third box. 

He covered Luffy, knowing how cold the nights get at sea, and climbed to the top bed, deciding it was also time for him to rest.

.

.

.

'Dear  Luffy, 

By the time you're reading this, I'll be long gone and out on my journey. Before we left Foosha village, the crew told me to give you a gift. I had thought, 'Why? I already gave him one?' and then they were like 'that doesn't count!' and kept laughing with no clear answer. What part of me giving you my straw hat that was once my captain's doesn't count? Soon, the thought was all I could think of, so I got you something.

Before I go on:  DO NOT EAT THE GIFT OR THE WRAPPING! If you have SPIT IT OUT! There is (or was) no meat or edible stuff in there!

Anyway, it did take me a while to figure out what to give you(aside from the straw hat and promise), Benn even said I was more paranoid than I would be in front of Garp and the Marines in a war. I kept on thinking about how you would receive it when someone mentioned that it's not the gift that matters (though I know you would have preferred some meat).

Took him hours to choose. - Benn

Back to the topic- they said it's the thought that matters, and knowing you, I surprisingly, for once, couldn't see the reaction you'd have received it. You could say that's why I didn't give it to you in person. I hope you're happy with what I gave you, even though it's not much. It's something I had with me for a while, you could say a hand-me-down, but better.

I'm not sure what to write at this point... was it good? Maybe I should have given it to you in person... 

Become a good pirate, okay? Stay out of trouble and keep your friend close. I can tell they care for you as much as you do for them. Don't give that blue-haired girl(Kuina) too much trouble, okay? Or Zeff for that matter...

And then once you become a good pirate, let's meet again!

P.S.: The third gift is VERY IMPORTANT, so take GOOD CARE of it and  KEEP IT CLOSE!! It was hard making them, and we can't make another unless we meet again- (well, unless unforeseen circumstances occur, and knowing you, it's a gamble.

-Shanks

°。°。°。°。°。Later in the night。°。°。°。°。°

With the trio together and alone, it was time to plan the future they came back to change. Roger was also with them, being the literal -with consent- cause of the hiccuping situation.

They sat together in Sanji's room as they had a midnight snack. "Before we get to that, I think we should deal with Kuina-chan and Ussop."

"Sanji is right. We can carry Ussop everywhere with us, but since Kuina died before her current age, it's gonna be tricky finding out what she wants." Roger said as he floated around.

"Zoro knows Kina best, so what do you suggest?" Luffy asked, drawing attention to the man in question. "About that... I don't know," he answered, not bothering to correct him.

"You don't know?" Everyone but Zoro was taken by varying surprise.

"I don't know. This 'now' and in the past, she never spoke about how she wanted to become a great swordsman. Not that we knew the world back then - she still doesn't as of current- but I now suspect she'll become a pirate to achieve that."

"Why do you say that?" Roger asked as he pondered the answer. "Mmm, can't say... just feels right somehow." Zoro finished with a nod of affirmation. "Also, the fact that the greatest swordsman is a pirate himself." 

"You're becoming more like Luffy." Both Sanji and Roger said in response to Zoro's comment, making Luffy laugh. "Trust me. I know." "Are you guys sure it's good to discuss something like this outside Merry's world?"

"Should be fine since everyone else clocked out early and our haki isn't peaking up eavedroppers," Sanji replied. "Speaking of which, can you use haki, Roger?" Roger remained silent in thought, now staying still from his previous hovering. 

"No idea. The thought of using it never crossed my mind since I died. I figure I still have it since the sea kings can still identify me, but to actually 'use' it, I've never attempted." They all nodded at his explanation, whilst Sanji held Luffy from asking a stupid question they could see coming.

"Back to topic- how about you carry them with you everywhere?" "You just repeated yourself, Roger." Zoro looked at Roger with a look saying, 'I know you're the pirate king, but could you be dumb from old age?'

"Wait, wait. Hear me out. As mentioned earlier, you can take ussop anywhere, so the problem is the lady, right? Now here's what we are forgetting: she chose to follow you. That means it's fine to carry her anywhere cause she technically approved the moment she got on the boat here."

"shishishi! I was gonna carry her anyway. A nakama to zoror is a nakama to me!"  Luffy stuffed his face with the snack as Roger smirked, and the other two were torn between surprise from the explanation or response.

*sigh* 

"Can we get a break to take this all in?"

"Having two luffys isn't doing us any good." 

"Is this how Nami-sawn feels?"

"Where did she come from?"

"Where's Nami or Law when you need them?"

*Sighs*

"Whae dyo wee di mmmmm mmm futmmmm?" Attention was now brought back to Luffy. "Swallow the food first." "*swallows* I said, 'What do we do about her and the rest of the crew? Since we're planning the future now, we should have some groundwork about them, too, no?" 

"Something logical from our resident idiot." "Luffy shouted at the comment. "Let's start with Nami. How should we go about her and avoid her death?" Everyone went silent as they thought of a response.

"We should let everything flow the same, but make them go through training or something similar." Zoro spoke first, which led Sanji to do so, "Of course, leave it to the brute to think with his muscle." "Huh!?" "When were you not training in the past when we had free time?" 

"Maybe Zoro is right? Not too much, but enough for the two-year time skip not to happen..." The three stared at him, knowing well about his current state. Sanji spoke up first, "Well, we can't just fully ignore it either, unfortunately. The other part of the grandline went relatively smoothly because of the year gap. 

We wouldn't have met with Law to beat up Doflamingo or Caesar together, and his fake devil fruits. Neither would we have found Zou or taken care of Kaido or Big Mom." Zoro reasoned with them, earning downcast grumbles. Unable to rebut.

"Then instead of waiting two years, when that time comes. Use it to train on some island or take the trip slower and go to islands you've never visited before." Luffy brightened at that nodding gleefully.

"I GOT IT! Shishishi. We first wait for what happened with Ussop's bag and Zoro's sword to happen again with the rest, and we start training them when we save them!" "I get it... *nods*  and while we wait we can get ussop stronger with his stuff and all!"

"Mhm! We can also meet up with my brothers and maybe save Brook or Robin!" The ball rolled as ideas were brought up one after the other. Suggestions of occurrences they wanted to change and or do differently for each of them were made.

By the time they fell asleep, they had no plan whatsoever. Only loose smiles and grins adorn their sleeping faces with Roger gone.

°。°。°。°。°。A Week Later 。°。°。°。°。°

"In the end, we still have no plan..." Sanji sighed as he sat eating his breakfast. He and the others were seated down as they officially -and seriously- talked about the future as a group. "shishishi. Let's just go wherever!"

"Have you forgotten, Luffy, you have people you have to go back and meet!? And speaking about that, when exactly do you meet them?" Zoro questioned with genuine curiosity in his voice. Luffy never told him or their Nakama when he met Ace or Sabo. Just the fact that they were kids, and Ace hated Roger at the time. 

While the crew still had part of their past, they didn't share it in full. Luffy's is the most enigmatic. I mean, learning after months of sailing together and completing the crew(save for Jimbei) that his father is the world's most wanted criminal and the leader of the revolutionaries, you'd think you've seen it all.

Till you're hit months later that his brother is Fire Fist Ace, commander of the second division, a white beard pirate, and most of all, the son of the Gol D. Roger, the king of pirates. You clearly haven't seen it all.

"Don't know. Jiji one day came to the bar and took me to Dadan and said, I'll be living here with my brother. It was some time after Shanks gave me his straw hat.

"Who's Dadan?" 

"That hat of yours was from Shanks?! That's so cool!"

"You lived in a bar?"

"Garp, huh?"

"Isn't that like... soon?" 

"Shishishi!"

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

Early mornings in Foosha village are the most peaceful times of the day. Fishermen get up at sunrise to start their work, and farmers tend to their fields. A few hours after sunrise, everyone wakes up.

Foosha village's bar was having a slow day today, with one of its biggest benefactors gone. Makino idly cleaned around, enjoying the silence and tranquility. She finally had the chance to deep-clean the place and restock in full after they left, and she wasn't going to let it sail away.

*Pere pere pere pere* "Someone's calling?" *Pere pere pere pe- Ka- clack!* "Hello?" "Bwahahaha! Heya Makino!" Makino gasped in surprise at the caller's voice. "Garp-san! What do I owe the pleasure?"

Makino sat down on a nearby chair, waiting for an answer. On the other side of the den den mushi was Garp munching on rice crackers, grinning. "Well, I want to tell ya I'm coming to see ma boy!"

"Luffy?" "That's right *crunch* *crunch* I'm on my way there now!" Makino gasped at the news, somehow knowing it would no longer be a tranquil day. "Haha... is that so? When will you get here?"

"In two days! Bwahahaha! Make sure that Luffy is there when I get there!" The den den mushi was mirroring Garp laughing, and Makino internally panicked, trying not to show, "Don't worry, Garp-san, I'm sure he will. He won't miss any meal, I'm sure."

'If Garp-san learns that luffy is no longer on the island, I'm afraid of what would happen to Luffy...'

"He did? Bwahahah, that's good! Now, my boy will no longer have that pirate dream of his! Where is he?" 'uh-oh.' "Sorry, Garp-san, He's out on an adventure right now..." "That brat... *sighs* whatever, just wanted to let you know I'm on the way and too chase that red-haired and his crew away before I-." "Punch them to a pulp. I know that very much."

"Ah! Thank you, Garp-san!" *Ka-clack!* 'That was close.' Makino relaxed at the den den mushi, going back to sleep. She sat, recalling the talk just now, until it dawned on her. "I have to call Luffy!" The green-haired woman now started pacing around, lost in thought.

Without her noticing, the bar doors swung open as the fishermen came from their early morning fishing. Their boisterous laughter halted at the sight of her stressed posture, and she muttered, 'what's the number...' or 'who to call...?' and 'how do I...?'

"Makino-san!" The loud call of her name snapped her back to reality, and she faced the door to the group. "What's wrong?" "Garp is coming here in two days." That sentence explained everything to them.

"Oh no. Luffy isn't here!" "What are we gonna do!?" "I don't wanna face Garp's wrath!" They now joined the panicking wagon and started putting up solutions. They hurdled into a circle, making it clear to each other the threat this is and the frightened faces they have.

They all have seen Garp's fist of love. They want no part of it.

"Let's call Luffy?" 

"How?"

"I'm not sure how..."

"Let's ask the mayor. Makino san, you do know where he's going, right?"

"Yes! I do!" They all brightened at the words and relaxed a little. "In fact, I have a number from their first possible stop!" The fishermen all had faces of shock and happiness. They didn't question why as long as they didn't end up on the receiving side of Garp's fist.

"WE'VE BEEN SAVED!" Makino was now behind the counter, searching for Bacchina's number that Yassop had mistakenly and luckily left (he had memorized it in his head when it happened). "Here it is!"

"Quick! Call it!" one of the men said, coming closer to the transponder snail. "I'll go get the mayor! Let him know of the situation!" Makino input the number and soon the snail started ringing.

"Now that we have a solution, we're leaving," one said, "sorry Makino, Garp-san is just too scary, we don't want to linger any longer..." "It's fine. I understand." And she did, if she weren't the person she is, she would have run from the beginning.

She smiled softly as they left, leaving only her and the ringing transponder snail. "I'm here!" "Mayor-san! Goodness, sit down and breathe-" *ka-clack!* "Hello?" The interruption caught both of them off guard, flinching to nothing.

"H-Hello! Could I ask who I'm speaking to...?" Makino grabbed the mic and put it near her, and faced the mayor. "I'm Bachina. What about you?" Makino nodded at the mayor, giving a thumbs-up. 

"I'm Makino, and I have something very important I need to ask. Did your husband, Yassop, and his crew come to see you?" The other line stayed silent, and tension rose. "Who's asking?" "Let me explain! The crew he was with brought a kid with them called Luffy, and I need to know where he is as his caretaker! I have something I need to tell him!"

She explained herself quickly in one breath, hoping to clear any suspicions. "While you do seem truthful, how can I make sure what you say is true?" Bachina questioned, and the transponder snails' expression changed in relation.

'Reasonable enough... anyone who gets a call about a kid on a pirate ship should be concerned and cautious.' "Luffy has a scar under his left eye, has a straw hat, and his body can stretch." Did that do the trick?

The short silence was followed by the giggling of Bacchina, startling the two listeners.s "I see... so what is it you need? I'll help you as much as I can." "Thank you!"

Makino explained the situation to Bachina and asked her a previous question. "Shanks said that he and Luffy are going to the Baratie, a sea restaurant. I'm sure you received some advertisement with their number on it." Makino looked at the mayor, asking to confirm. He nodded, adjusting his glasses. "Is that so? Thank you."

"No problem. Anything for children, right?" The call cut at that, and now the bartender was truly exhausted. "You good? I'll do the next call." "No, no, it's good.... I just need to eat first-"

The mayor nodded and sat nearby as he watched Makino make a meal for them. Treasuring the break they have.

°。°。°。°。°。 An hour later at the baratie。°。°。°。°。°

"Excuse me, Luffy? There's a call for you," that drew the attention of everyone nearby as the worker brought the transponder sail to him. "MOSHI MOSHI? OREWA MONKEY D. LUFFY. KAIZOKU ONI ORE WA OTOKO DA."

"hehe. Hello to you, too, luffy." "Oooh, Makino! How are you?" The current listeners in the room were now silent, either out of respect or to hear the woman, Makino, on the other side. "I'm fine. I called to tell you something important."

"What is it? Are the bandits back?" Luffy frowned briefly. "None of that..."  'Good, the animals did as I asked them.' The thought had passed him as he heard it wasn't them. "-It's to do with Garp-san. He's coming back to the village in two days. He doesn't know you're away from the island, so you need to get back soon!" 

"EEHHHHH!?" This time, unable to contain themselves, everyone screamed in shock. Only Kuina, Ussop, and Zoro remained quiet but still showed surprise, and in Kuina and Ussop's case, confusion.

"JI-SAN/GARP/LUFFY'S GRANDPA IS COMING TO MEET ME/LUFFY??"

At this point, everyone was fully invested in the call and audibly voicing their thoughts. "Those are new voices... Where are you, Luffy? Did Shanks leave for the journey?" Although she knew where she was, she wanted him to confirm it with his own words.

"I'm on the Baratie. Never mind, is Ji-san coming?" Makino confirmed that retelling the call she had with him an hour prior. "Sigh* You just had to jinx it... If you're grandpa is coming to see you, mind you, the same you who is not on the island, and finds you at home, what will happen?"

Sanji said, making the situation sink further than it already has. "Do you even know how we'll get there before him?" All eyes went to Luffy as he stayed still, holding the mic.

"Makino!" "What is it?" Though you couldn't tell, she was harbouring doubt and worry similar to the day the bandits attacked the village and luffy.

"I made a ton of new friends and ate lots of good food-" Everyone was stunned at his sudden confession, and Makino could only stutter a response. "-We helped Ussop's mother get better. Shanks left for his journey not before throwing a big party and leaving gifts."

"What are you trying to say, luffy?" "Shishishi. I'll tell you all about my journey tomorrow! In person! See you then, Makino!"

"Wah- wait! Luffy, what-!" *clank* silence covered the room, and Luffy just went on eating as if nothing happened. "Uhm. I'll be the first one to speak and ask: Luffy. WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU THINKING!"

Breaking the silence, the rest followed up with their questions. "Relax. Just finish eating, then pack your bags. I know a way we can get there before Ji-san."

"Right." They all said sarcastically

"It's true shishishi! Guess you gotta do as I say to see it!" Luffy now left the room and leaving the flabbergasted to rethink their life choices. "He's being serious, isn't he?" Yes Kuina-chan. Yes." Sanji moved to start cleaning up. 'Might as well use this as a distraction,' he thought.

"Where are we gonna get a boat!?" Zoro quickly responded to that, suggesting the Baraties' shopping boats. "Normally, that would be hard for you to answer, Marimo." Sanji clapped slowly. "But you still fail to answer how we'll get there in less than forty-eight hours."

"Leave it to luffy. If he has a plan, I trust it." Zoro said unbothered. "Wholeheartedly?" Kuina asked, knowing that it couldn't be a hundred percent, no matter how much trust. "Three-quarters..." "ahh, there it is." Both Ussop and Kuina said with an unimpressed I-knew-it face

"Whatever! Let's just get on to what he says. It's better than getting caught by Garp right now." They all decided not to question things further

°。°。°。°。°。Later in the day。°。°。°。°。°

"By the way, luffy, what did you get from Shanks? And what was in the third gift? Did we ever open it?" Now in their rooms, Luffy and Usopp worked to pack whatever they had. "What did I get from Shanks? This!" 

Ussop now looked up at Luffy as he pointed to his waist, revealing a yellow scarf tied into a sash belt around it. "It's a scarf that her wore before his new get-up and that he got from Roger! Shishishi!"

"A-Amazing!! Not only is your hat from the legendary pirate himself, but now it is your satchel! Talk about awesome." Luffy could only giggle as Usopp stared at him with sparkly eyes. "Oh. What about the third gift? Let's open it now, together!" 

They both walked up to the desk where the third, forgotten, and unopened gift stayed. Ussop did the honors of unwrapping it, fearing Luffy would tear whatever was inside. "Here, read the letter." Luffy took the letter, read it aloud for both of them.

'Dear Luffy and Ussop,

I hope you enjoyed the previous gift that Shanks and Yassop gave you. I, Benn, am writing this on behalf of the crew on the Red Force as a "backup" in case you don't like the previous gifts. Your father's words.

Inside are Vivre Cards of you two and Shanks (Yassop as well for ussop (a request he begged for when he found out)).  They all have been indicated who's who, so split it between you guys and keep it close. If you lose it, it could mean trouble, and we can't keep on replacing them.

How they work is simple. Place it flat on a surface, and it will move toward the person it was made for, no matter how far, like a compass pointing north every time. It's connected to a person's life, so when they die, it burns away.

Due to the promise Luffy and the captain made, we may not always see each other when we want, but his words, not mine, "Luffy this time is stronger than ever before, so we'll meet sooner than expected." Whatever the case, that's it. 

May the sea guide your way.

The crew.'

"Who would have thought papers could be this important!" Ussop said, carefully taking one and testing it. Sure enough, it started moving. He took it again and put it in a box. "Here you take shanks, and I'll keep my father's. And for ours..."

"Give it to Zoro and Sanji!" "Sure." With that, the two quickly finished packing and went down to the main hall. Only Zoro was there, as he didn't have much to begin with. "Good, you're here. Love Cook has gone to prep a boat. All we are waiting for is Luffy and his plan."

"Shishishi. My plan is for us to ride a sea king! Like Hancock." Just as Luffy finished, Sanji and Kuina came in. "How is  whoever she is related to this?" Kuina asked, still not seeing it, but Sanji, on the other hand, did.

"No... it could work... she lives in the clam belt so she has two seakings push her boat. It doesn't necessarily have to be in the calm belt for it to work." He earned betrayed stares from everyone. "So what are you gonna call one?" "yup!" Luffy was now walking outside to call said creature

The rest followed and silently watched him do his work. A minute passed. Then two, now five. Finally, right before they call him or themselves crazy, a sea beast jumped out of the water, raising its head, stunning the viewers. 

The conversation between it and Luffy flew over their heads, and they only gained a hold of themselves when  Luffy gave a to go sign by getting on while the sea king went under but stayed nearby.

One by one(and slowly), they all got on the ship. They had said their farewells, had stocked, and nothing held them back. They now started their very first journey together that would mark the start of their tales.

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

When Luffy said he had a plan, it was idiotic. Idiotically smart. So idiotically smart that even Kuina herself couldn't say no, now knowing his character from the hours spent together.

So when the sea king dashed through the waters at a fast, yet steady, yet alarming rate, she could only steady herself further on her seat as she ate Sanji's cooking. They bound Luffy (figuratively) to the inside of the ship, not wanting him to drown by himself (it's not even the beasts or Speed's fault).

She at some point asked if he was always like this, and Sanji replied, "Most of the time, yeah. Once he sets his mind on something, he does it without hesitation. Nami-chwan, Jimbei, and Franky had to stop him from turning the ship's helm, taking the Sunny away from course."

"Sounds rough." He nodded. "Many nights I had to guard the fridge from him, even with the sea stone padlock we had on the fridge." The creaking of the floor drowned out her response. The footsteps came closer as the light shone on the figure who entered. It was Zoro and Ussop.

"We've stopped." "More liked slowed," Zoro spoke first, only to be corrected by Ussop. He gave the green head a side eye, which was ignored. "Well, Luffy is the only one who can talk to them, so we gotta wait for him."

"Where is he?" They looked at the two who stayed inside with him. "No clue." They looked at them with raised eyebrows, wondering how they could lose a man in a closed room. "This is Luffy we're talking about. He's too unpredictable."

Luffy popped up at the sound of his name from lord knows where and spoke, "Oh yeah!" A shrill, a huh, a scream, and a groan came, "See!?" "I told them they switch at night! The one who has carried us thus far is probably tired. Give it a moment, and we'll be back on track!"

They all looked at him, having various thoughts now, ignoring his sudden emergence. Luffy did think it through for both parties. The sea kings could do whatever they liked as long as they got to Luffy's homeland, and the gang would get to Goa Island before Garp. Choosing one word that would group all their thoughts on this, that word would be: 'Amazed'

Sanji and Zoro were still surprised because they were impressed by his actions and sudden genius, even though they never doubted his ability to deliver. Kuina and Ussop, on the other hand, now doubt their older assessment of him and think he's a genius trapped in an idiot's body.

The kid deserves credit.

The boat rocked and swayed sideways as the new sea king boarded the boat onto its back, ready to take them through the remaining stretch to the Goa Kingdom. {My king, are you ready to go?} "shishishishi! FULL SPEED AHEAD!"

"What is he talking about?" "And was that the sea beast roar!?" "To answer you both, that was indeed the sea king, and it was saying something about ready...?" The crew fell to one side of the ship as they reacted to the forces of gravity on them.

The questions and answers they got were now forgotten as they actively tried to position themselves less awkwardly. Luffy was at the bottom of the pile beside Sanji, with Usopp on top of them, each of his feet by their faces. Zoro was lying on Ussop's face *cough* nose *cough*, and finally, Kuina was in the very chair she had sat in when they got on.

She'd been the only one on the ship sitting and had been for the duration of the ride. She looked at the males on the ship with a half-displeased, half-amused face, holding back snickers. Zoro got up as he made way for the rest, only to be flung across the room to the left by an unexpected turn.

She couldn't hold back and laughed loudly at the quote-on-quote performance. Luffy laughed along, not at Zoro like Kuina, but just because she laughed and he felt the need to. As the night went on into the waking of the new dawn, Luffy and the crew passed out at some point, trusting the sea king to guide them. 

°。°。°。°。°。hours later 。°。°。°。°。°

Luffy woke up and looked around from his position. The movement and tossing around of the hectic ride (and surprisingly peaceful sleep) left him lying on the stairs. From what he could see, Kuina had also been thrown out of her chair and was sleeping in her new position by the fridge.

Zoro and Sanji had also been moved closer together (like that one scene ifykwim) to the other side of the room, and Usopp remained alone in the middle. Carefully, he got up and went to the fridge to get some meat.

He was careful not to fully open the fridge door and hurt Kuina or wake up Sanji, the guardian of the fridge. After grabbing his meat, he stealthily closed the fridge and went back to where he had woken up. He walked up the stairs to the door leading outside and opened it.

The sun emerged as the rays blared through, dancing in his vision. Luffy fully stepped out and closed his eyes, enjoying the warm sunrays on him. He went to the other side of the deck to see the sea king. 

{You're up, my lord} "Mhm. Are we almost home?" {take a look} Luffy did as asked, and he saw it. There in the distance was the island where he spent most of his childhood and teen years. It was only from a distance like this that he could really see his home island for what it is. 

The tall, bright, and glimmering buildings and castle at the highest point that ran down like liquid, halted halfway, stopped by a large invisible wall that, while he couldn't see it knew what it was and why it was there. Beyond it, in the middle, is a grey mountain of trash that he ventured into every day (it had one noticeable bunch from a distance), surrounded by green mountains and his home village at the front, Foosha Village. 

That's when it hit him. A cold, rough, unswallowable realization that stuck in his throat and gripped his heart in a painful vice. Out of instinct, he raised his arm to claw at his throat, trying to alleviate the feeling.

'This is the first time I've returned to the island...' An uncharacteristic silence came over him that tuned out the creaking of the boat and splashing of water. His face displayed no emotion.

'Return to the island... ''Are you alright?' Luffy snapped back, coming too away from his thoughts. "What?" {We are here, my lord. I'm afraid I can't go further without alerting the residents.} "Oh. Thank you for bringing us here. We'll be fine the rest of the way."

The beast let out a pleased sound and went under the water, releasing the ship from its back to the sea and swimming away. He stared thoughtlessly into the distance. Yes, it is a contradiction because Luffy's mind was filled with many thoughts, but this explains him best.

The sound of footsteps made him stop and turn back to see who it was. "Kina!" "It's KU-I-NA! When are you ever going to get it right..." she lamented, shifting inside her blanket. Luffy just laughed as he stretched out his hand and wrapped her in a cocoon.

"What are you doing!?" Luffy didn't respond, but he brought her closer to where he was. Kuina couldn't help but struggle a bit until she realized he wouldn't stop. She just sighed and looked ahead at the horizon.

"Is that your hometown?" "Yeah..." She couldn't help but worry about that response he gave. "So tell me more about the place. We still have an hour until we reach, right?" She asked, hoping it would change his demeanor.

"For starters, I grew up in the island's port village outside the city. Look, you can see it." She could see the island, but still squinted to see the village exactly. "I... can see it!" "Shishishishi. No need to stress your eyes. You'll see it once we land."

"Guess you're right. Also, please let me go. It's getting too hot with the sun here." Luffy just threw an oops and unwrapped her from his grasp. Kuina quickly stretched her arms, happy at the free movement. She looked back at Luffy and asked, Continue. Luffy softly smiled as he walked to the other side of the ship. No longer finishing his talk about the island.

She questioned his actions but was glad he looked better than before.

°。°。°。°。°。A few minutes ago。°。°。°。°。°
°。°。°。°。°underdeck。°。°。°。°。°

"Guys, what should we do about Luffy?" Ussop whisper-shouted as he stopped by the door. The others were behind him as well, not daring to go out after his odd action. Sanji and Zoro stayed silent, taking in his words like a bitter pill.

He didn't voice his words. No, but they felt his words. They knew what he was saying and paired with how he felt. Maybe it was a special link formed when they time-traveled. Maybe it was there long before.

For Ussop and Kuina, they just felt that his silence this morning, which should have been happy, was ominous. They had no way of knowing what was wrong with the man and racked their brains in murmured voices. Motion sickness? No, not a morning person. I doubt. "This is closer to bad nostalgia..." He hummed, not having the strength to say more.

Though they hate to admit it, it's the same for them. Same for their dead crew. Going back to where you were born is one thing; going back home to where you grew up is another. "We don't know..."

The bitter pill now felt as if it were dissolving on the taste buds. They never feared much. But this? This they did. They never thought that they wouldn't come back to the place where their journey started until that dreadful day. The day the first one in their crew died.

"S... Sanji! Zoro! -Guys!" They snapped up to look at Kuina, who was begrudgingly grabbing the first blanket she could and walking past them. "If you guys won't do anything, then I will!" She walked out of sight, going to their captain.

"Kina!" "It's KU-I-NA! When are you ever going to get it right..." They heard the excitement in his voice and released a sigh they've been holding. They stayed where they stood with less tension, just in case.

Minutes passed by, and they could hear footsteps getting closer behind the deck by the door. "Hey guys!" Suddenly, Luffy popped his head into the view of the three, scaring Ussop and startling Sanji, but having no effect on Zoro.

"C'mon! Help me row!" The three only stared at him and soon climbed up to each side. "Kuina-chan, thank you," Sanji whispers as he passes by her to go stand by Luffy, getting into position. "So that's the destination? Well, the great Captain Ussop will help reach there in a flash!!"

"You sure, Ussop? I bet I'm the one who will do all the work." Zoro said as he grabbed the oars, provoking Usopp. "Hahaha... Kuina, you might wanna sit down for this. We'll make this one-hour stretch a myth in fifteen minutes tops!"

She didn't even hesitate in going under-deck and giving the OK signal. "Alright! THREE. TWO-" 

"WAIT! Wait! Which way are we starting? Front or backwards?" They all just stared at him like, Really? "We are pushing forward." Ussop just laughed and thanked the guys. "-ONE!" 

"Heave-ho! Heave-ho!"The oars kept entering the water, pushing the boat forward, and coming out again, only to repeat the cycle. To everyone's surprise (except Luffy), they were moving at a steady pace. 

For the monster trio, they weren't going as fast as they did when they first rowed the boat that one time, but I guess they weren't starving like then. They soon reached the dock and slowed down to align nicely.

"Shishishishishi! We're here!" Luffy raised his fists in the air as everyone got out and stared at the place. The village itself is larger than expected, with windmills at every turn. The large arch held a sign that read Foosha Village in capital letters.

The dock was half awake with early fishers reading their boats and stalls. They stared in awe at this humble village that parented the chaotic friend they know as Luffy. They all wondered how his personality could have stemmed from such a place. 

They saw Luffy walk up to them and struck up a conversation. "Hey guys!" He waved at them, and they did the same. "Hey, Luffy!" "How are you?" "Welcome back!" They seemed to brighten up as they all came closer to surround him.

They all spoke as if he had not been gone for weeks, as if it were the most normal thing in the world. "M-maybe he does this a lot; they're used to it?"

"Yeah..."

Chapter Text

Content/guide:

"Luffy" - talking

'Luffy' - Thinking

Luffy - One or more people shouting/mad

Luffy - Roger's spirit

{Luffy} - Voice of all things/ the world

//Luffy// - ???? ??????

╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲╱╲❀╱╲

.... ╰──╮Sanji's POV╭──╯ . . . .

After Luffy unceremoniously ran off, leaving the four of us by the boat. "... Do you believe the guy! You're supposed to give a tour when you're with first-time guests!!" Ussop shouted at the audacity. 

"Yet he goes and talks to the residents like he didn't leave the island for weeks," Zoro said, making me agree with the odd scene. I let my eyes wander until they got stuck on the castle standing high behind forested mountains.

I stared at the white walls, getting an off-putting vibe from them. 'Maybe it's because I don't do well with kingdoms ...' My eyes slowly went downwards until a mountain covered the bottom half of the city. 'Mountains splitting the rich and the common people...'

Luffy's ending conversation interrupted me. "Glad you had fun, kiddo. Why don't you go back to the bar, ya? Makino's been worrying her head off." I beamed at the sound of her name, vigorously nodding. "And take this fish with yer. Something as a bonus for a good job!"

"SUGOII!! Thanks!" With that, Luffy came running back to us with a fresh bag in hand, full of fish. "C'mon, guys! Time to go to the bar!" Luffy said, grabbing his bag from the lot we had placed off the ship. "A bar? Why?" Kuina-chan asked as she adjusted her bag and walked, voicing all our thoughts, I assume. At least I was also curious.

Marimo, Ussop, and I quickly took what we could and followed the two. Luffy looks like he's in deep contemplation. Is finding an explanation that hard? "Well..." He's dragging out the L too much. 

"It's because I lived there with Makino for as long as I can remember, I think?" "You think?" He just nervously laughed and did his weird whistle. Fortunately, no one wants to push that further, so we left it..

The walk there was interesting, to put it mildly. The residents and vendors all greeted Luffy and had brief conversations (mainly because they saw us lingering at a distance and decided to cut it short). Like once again, 'He did not just come back from leaving the island for weeks.'

We went on ahead, and with each house, person -and even pet- we passed, we seemed to gain something new. "Is this how Luffy spends his days?" Kuina asked what we were all thinking. " He's like the most open one of all of us to have close relationships with everyone here." 

And I could guess what Zoro meant with that. We never exactly had good communication with other residents back when we lived there. Both everyone watching him now and the crew in the past. I suppose only Jimbei, Brook, and I would be exceptions, seeing as our 'residents' were shipmates.

"It's like the entire village is raising him," Ussop spoke, making us silent as we saw the said person receiving treats from an elderly woman. When we finally reached the bar, our hands were full of fish, vegetables, and other stuff. He stopped in front and introduced us to each other. It was odd for Luffy, but it was fitting.

"Guys, Party Bar, Makino works and lives here. Party bar, my Nakama." The building was an average home-turned-bar, featuring brown walls on the outside and old Western tavern doors, accompanied by small potted plants on either side. A sign -similar to the one at the dock- rested on the upper roof with PARTY'S BAR written on it.

I could only assume that they either had a back house or the top floor was where he and the bar owner stayed. Looking at the surrounding area before we went in, I could see windmills surrounding the back of the village that I couldn't see earlier.

"Well, what are you standing around for? Let's go in!" 

A bell rang as Luffy pushed the door open and walked in, alerting Makino (whom Luffy had told us her name was before), who was cleaning up before opening. Just as she looked up, from her view, she saw a figure launching towards her. "Wh-!" Before she could finish, the figure accosted her, stretching his arms multiple times around her. "Luffy!" 

"HOW DID YOU KNOW!?" everyone watching questioned, "Think about it, guys. Who else can stretch like him?" I said, making the shock from the other three disappear as soon as it appeared. "Can't believe we forgot about that," Ussop mumbled.

"We have been learning more about Luffy, so I can see why," Kuina added, and they nodded aggressively. I had a feeling that they would be close friends if they stayed together more. 'kinda like him and Robin -who can be surprised more-'

. . . . ╰──╮Normal's POV╭──╯ . . . .

Back to Luffy and Makino, they were now moving apart from the hug while Luffy was giggling like usual. "I'm back!" Luffy now stopped laughing and gave a soft, somewhat sad smile. Makino mirrored him, just slightly happier. "Welcome back."

They entered another hug, this time shorter and brief, yet held all the same weight. "Ah! I almost forgot. -Makino separated from the hug and stood up at full length- Are you Luffy's friends?" Now, they waved before as they introduced themselves.

"I'm Kuina. Nice to meet you." 

"What a beautiful girl you are!"

"I'm Sanji. Nice to meet you, mademoiselle."

"A gentleman, I see."

"Zoro"

"Not one for words, huh?"

"Guess it's my turn now! Heh! I am the skilled warrior of the sea, God Ussop! You stand before the unanimous and illustrious pirate who conquered the whole seven seas! A god! Name bringing fear to all that hear and pride to all that follow. All sea kings kneel to me and follow. People gather at my feet to follow commands alongside my fleet of thousands! Vicious criminals dare not anger me, and the so-called heroes of justice dare not cross me! But no need to fear; no need to praise; no need to bow; fret not for formality today! Today is an occasion meant not for me but for my loyal follower! Yes! My kindness knows no bounds! Not only did I help him with the boat, but I also personally escorted these people here! Celebrate in his name! Praise him; raise your cups to him; drink to him! I shall take my praise another day! When that ti-"

(A/N: I think I might have gone overboard?)

"THAT'S ENOUGH!"

Sanji and Kuina, who were at his side, slapped their hands over his mouth, not caring if it was a little too hard or if he fell back. "How can you go on like that...?" "All you had to do was say your name and period."

Makino just started the scene, fumbling at what just happened. "Ahaha... Not questioning that... Luffy, you really managed to come here, just as you said before, Garp-san. I'm amazed." This brought the current situation back into focus. 

"I don't want Ji-chan's fist of love! No!" Luffy said, tensing and shaking his head. "Let's forget that for now. I doubt any of you have eaten anything yet. Let me whip up something for you all."

Quick to action, she went behind to the other side of the bar and into the fridge searching for what she could make. "Oh! Here! We got fish from the fishers and some veggies from the townfolk."

"That's great! I can make an enormous meal like this."Makino took the ingredients from them and placed them on the counter, looking at them, wondering what to make. "You guys can go freshen up upstairs or just sit and wait at the table. Luffy will show you the way to the bedrooms and bathrooms upstairs. You can even have Luffy show you around the place."

They all agreed and did what they felt was right. First, they put the stuff they had into a guest room upstairs, then they split into two groups. Luffy, Sanji, and Usopp are going exploring, and Kuina and Zoro are doing their daily training behind the bar by the plain fields.

"Make sure to be back by one on the clock!" 

"Yes, Ma'am/Makino." 

°。°。°。°。°。With Luffy's tour group。°。°。°。°。°

"Since we went around town earlier, we can go further on the island," Luffy stated, now walking to the edge of the village, and Sanji and Usopp following. "You said that this place is also called Windmill Village, right? I can see why." 

Sanji recalled the one island they visited in the Grand Line that was populated by people from all over the other seas. It was one of the few moments that showed Luffy's past and homeland. "shishishi. That's something you can see only here. The kingdom and other villages don't have any, or at least this many."

Ussop mumbles a 'That's so cool,' with sparkles in his eyes. Luffy led them through the sea of grass and into the forest, where he spent most of his time. "This is where I do my training!" The two looked around, seeing a makeshift dummy in the middle and impact marks on surrounding trees and rock, as well as the ground.

"Do you ever hit the dummy...?" Usopp asked as she nervously looked at the damage everywhere but the hit target. Luffy just looked away. "Sometimes..." They just stared at him with an undecipherable expression. "Your aim needs work." "Maybe you should teach him the Ussop. You are a sharpshooter, aren't you?"

"Well, if you put it like that-" Sanji smiled, successfully stroking his ego. "Shishishi. To the next stop!" Luffy went up the hill to near the mountain king's cave, then to the ravine, down to the river, where they hunted and ate some fish.

"Do you always fish here?" Ussop asked as he finished his fish. "Yeah. But now that I have a devil fruit, I don't think I can." Sanji nodded in understanding while Ussop went silent. "What is a Devil Fruit?"

Sanji stepped in and explained quickly, shutting off whatever Luffy was about to say. "A Devil Fruit is a magical fruit that gives the eater powers. It's said that the fruit appears to the user by their will, and the user's personality also determines the type they receive. AND NOW THAT I HAVE A SECOND CHANCE, I'LL GET THAT FRUIT I'VE BEEN LONGING FOR!!!"

"I'll just ignore that last part. So what fruit did you eat?" Turning attention from Sanji, who is now burning up, spewing swears at someone, to Luffy, "The gomu gomu no mi! I became a rubber man!" "So that's why you can stretch your body abnormally. Now all those stunts of yours make sense." 

They finished their talk and put out the fire, ready to go to the next stop. They moved up the mountain as they made their way closer to the towering white wall they saw and could still see in the distance. 

"We're going to the city!?" Ussop said in happiness. "I'm also curious about it, too," Sanji added. They got closer and closer to the edge of the forest, and Luffy said nothing until now. The two looked at him as they now questioned his prolonged silence.

"We are not going to the kingdom," Luffy finally spoke as they passed the last tree of the forest. The bright light blinded them until their eyes adjusted. Once they opened them all, what lay in front of them was a field of waste. They quickly blocked their noses at the smell and looked at Luffy, eyes wide in shock and disbelief, wanting an explanation.

"Welcome to Grey Terminal."

. . . . ╰──╮Kuina's POV╭──╯ . . . .

The sun was still rising as we went behind the bar, swords in hand. "Are you ready?" I say while moving to the respected distance. "Ready," Zoro said as he unsheathed his sword and straightened it before him. (A/N: I wanna clarify they are using the swords that Shimotsuki Kozaburo/ the old man, created for training. Not Wado Ichimonji)

I took mine out and readied my form, taking a deep breath and releasing it. "Let's start." "Yes!" Zoro was the first to move, launching at me, raising his sword above his head, and swinging it down once he got close enough. 

I turned my sword sideways and blocked the attack quickly, parrying it, aiming for his left side. He leapt back, grazing only his clothes. I dashed forward, not giving him time to re-form and cut upwards.

Zoro grunted as the sword cut his shoulder. Blood covered the tip of my sword, and his clothes were collecting some. "What's wrong? You're bleeding." I taunt, watching his grip tighten around the hilt and his face turn into a scowl. 

"Just wait! You'll be next!" He said, pivoting his foot and twisting his upper body and arms to a ninety-degree angle, and waited. I took that as an invitation and went on the offensive, attacking him and not letting him off. 

Each strike resonated in shock waves that resonated through the air and my body. And I could bet he felt it more. He was on the defensive for a while, blocking and parrying my attacks without a solid counter.

I increased my speed, and soon he couldn't keep up with me. Slowly, his body became riddled with cuts and stabs, bleeding him out. Both blood and energy. 'I can win if I keep this up!' I couldn't help but think that.

I bent down suddenly, confusing him, and I smirked at his expression. I kicked his abdomen -while Zoro was still shocked- making him stumble back. "Agh!-" I didn't stop there and now moved my weight to the leg that kicked him, coming closer again, and swept his feet -successfully knocking him on his back.

 "I win."

The tension in the air fell as we both took a moment to catch our breath. Sweat covered my body -and his too- which I realised as the chilly wind blew past us. The sun was now high and centred in the sky.

"Two thousand four hundred and seventy-six wins. Five hundred and twenty-four wins. I'm still ahead of you." I said, stretching my arm to help him up. He took it, mumbling a thanks, which I caught. "You're welcome!"

He dusted off and sheathed his sword, and I did the same. "Let's go back in. We don't want to keep Makino waiting, or the rest if they are back." He said, already turning the corner to go back to the front.

"Wh-! WAIT FOR ME!"